RP XCOM: The Story of Defiance.

[MarineAvenger]

A New Challenger

XCOM Base, Somewhere in Siberia
Hangar
September 23rd, 2018
0530 Hours

The Skyranger touched down with a slight clang early in the morning as the newest additions to XCOM's arsenal had arrived. The door opened and inside were six men, a group composed of three shinobi Shadows and three shinobi Warriors. One of the warriors barked an order in Japanese as he walked out carrying a bag over his shoulder.

Saka ran out from behind some crates and towards the group of men. She jumped up and wrapped her arms around the one leading the other five away from the ship. "Minato! You arrived!"

Minato did not flinch as he pulled her off of himself, her grip somewhat strong. "You called for the best, were there any doubts?"

Saka looked down, a little embarrassed. "I'm sorry...I should have thought it through."

Minato put a hand on her head and began to walk off.

"So these are the guys, aren't they?" Desmond called from behind the seven of them, his arms crossed as he leaned against a stack of crates.

Saka looked really surprised. "D-Desmond!? How did you get out of bed?"

Desmond waved his hand. "I have been fine the past few days, they are keeping me there to just make sure I am fine for the time being. Though I could hardly miss seeing this, now couldn't I?"

Minato sneered. "So you are the pretender, aren't you?" He spit in disgust.

Desmond's face hardened. "Excuse me?"

Saka looked between the two men. "Woah! Minato, that came out of nowhere!" She tried to get in front of him but he pushed past.

"You heard me. You are no member of the clans, you can't be. The Otoharas are all dead. You are just a dishonorable thug who is using that great name for your own uses." His five friends seemed to be in agreement, backing up their captain.

"If that is so, why come?" Desmond asked plainly, with a tone of authority.

"A warrior cannot refuse his Mistress's call. That is the only reason." Minato got in Desmond's face.

"I suggest you back down...you don't know who you are dealing with." Desmond warned.

"A fake, a pretender, a..." Minato looked Desmond up and down and sneered. "Thug."

Desmond nodded and got even closer. "Then why don't I prove to you that you are making an enemy of the wrong person buddy."

Saka squeezed her way in between the two of them. "Hold on, Desmond, you can't fight in your condition!"

Desmond did not break his gaze at Minato. "We'll see about that." Desmond nudged his neck for Minato to follow, the two men settling this the way their code dictated, one on one combat.

***

Desmond and Minato faced off on the wooden dance floor of the dojo simulation. The area was wide enough for the two of them to fight and have room to move around. Minato threw off his dark cloak and revealed a man clothed in a black ninja fatigues, bound together with a rope at his waist. His face was scrunched up in anger. Desmond slowly drew the katana from his back slowly, the blade made a hissing whisper as it was removed from the sheathe. All the while, Minato was holding Desmond firmly in his gaze. Desmond stretched his back, turning his neck from left to right and popping it with a series of clicks in rapid succession. Then, he proceeded to do the same with the rest of his body as he loosened up the rest of his body.

“Don’t hold back or I am going to break you.” Minato snarled at Desmond.

Desmond shrugged his shoulders, smiled, and slowly brought one foot behind his back. He put his weight on it and brought an open palm up.

Minato turned his head in curiosity, and took a stance of his own

“Now, where were we?” Desmond asked, with a quick flick of his hand, as if to say, 'Come on', towards Minato. The fight was on and Desmond rushed at Minato.

Desmond dipped and weaved right as he was about to reach him and slashed downwards with the sword. Minato parried with one of his hands and the blade was pushed away, Minato pushing forward and sending an uppercut at his abdomen. The psionic soldier was quick and uppercut slashed at the hand to hand warrior, attempting to catch Minato from stem all the way to stern.

Minato sidestepped to the right just enough and the blade passed a hair's breath from his face. Quickly, before Desmond could respond with a follow-up, Minato swiftly punched Desmond in the solar plexus, knocking the wind out of the swordsman, and stunning him for a brief moment.
The fight had taken Minato and Desmond dangerously close to the edge of the dojo and Minato had his back almost to the wall, despite his counter offensive.

Desmond was still open for more attacks though and Minato was not done. The quick blow had opened Desmond up for another attack and Minato obliged him, putting a simple sidekick into the soldier's stomach, doubling him over. Minato followed that up with a quick rising uppercut.

Minato, taking an opening and using the environment to his advantage, back flipped onto the wall and pushed off towards Desmond. The maneuver sent him soaring towards Desmond and just before he reached the swordsman, Minato braced his body. .

The maneuver caught Desmond off guard as he was recovering, Minato used his momentum to slam hard into Desmond, the two men both falling over and rolling on the ground. Minato skidded and tumbled along the ground, uncontrolled. Minato was stopped by the other end of the dojo, a groan escaped his lips as the pain from the attack started setting in.

Both men quickly got up and charged at one another once more, fists and katana swinging. Desmond barely had time to breath, let alone dodge, but it was a testament to his experience in battle that Desmond kept the presence of mind to roll to the right in a desperate dodge, towards the wall of the dojo, just in time.

Desmond took this brief moment to recover some stamina but Minato was back on him quick. Minato pulled back for a massive blow and sent it soaring at Desmond. The psionic soldier quickly moved right to avoid the blow. Seeing Desmond dodge, most warriors would have pulled back to collect their thoughts, but Minato wasn't most warriors. Minato jumped up and swung his leg left, the shinobi's foot slamming hard into Desmond, causing his body to jerk but virtually not move.

Minato was taken off guard by the unmoving reaction and Desmond grabbed his leg. With a quick move from Desmond and a jerk of his body, sent Minato through the wall of the artificial construction, the program dissolving as Minato lost the fight.

Desmond wiped his mouth and walked away, leaving his new rival on the ground, contemplating his defeat.

 

[BMPixy]

“Genesis 1:26”
624 Hektor, Jovian L4 Lagrangian Point
System Command Center ADFX-01
0321 Universal Co-ordinated Time

Gently G-21 plodded through the corridors of the newly refit base, silently thankful for the addition of artificial gravity to the station. Low gravity was not good for the bones. The Sectoid Commander turned a corner, making his way through a door and into an area of the station that still had the sheen of new alloy platings, a pack filled with data-slates on his back as he scurried through the halls on all fours.

Another left, side-step the drones heading towards the parts of the station still under construction, climb the ladder, make a right, and at last, the slightly out of breath Sectoid Commander made it to his destination: the Labs. Briefly he paused to wonder why he had mentally capitalized that word, after all, it was likely no different than any other laboratory in the station, but G-21 shook his head and stepped through the door and into the facility.

G-21 took a moment to scan the Labs. After all, this was half of the reason that he had taken this courier assignment, and the other half was currently engrossed in their work. Several pods filled with the orange Valqan lined the right side of the bay, some filled with New Ones in various stages of development, others empty, while a single console overlooked the pods. On the far wall stood several cogitator banks and benches lined with scientific equipment. The Sectoid Commander’s eyes finally came to rest on the left side of the facility, where in front of a projection of the New One’s genome stood the Honored Overseer, manipulating the projection with their shriveled arms.

Honored Overseer, G-21 projected into the room, I have several data-slates that are meant for your viewing.

Place them upon the counter beside this one. This one shall observe them later, the Ethereal replied, waving one of their lower arms towards the counter in question as the upper two removed a string of base pairings from the holographic genome.

G-21 scurried over to the counter, and hefted the bag of data-slates onto it, unhooking the hatch and removing them from the bag. The Overseer of Africa expressed that he would like you to peruse the contents of these slates immediately, Honored Overseer. He also expressed slight concern over your failure to attend the most recent meeting.

Alert Superbia that this one sincerely apologizes for this one’s failings, and that this one’s projects have been taking up this one’s time. However, tell him to expect this one at the next session. Is there anything else, G-21? Another slide of the hands, and two of the nitrogenous bases switched positions.

Actually, Honored Overseer, the smaller alien hesitantly replied, there is one thing. Several members of the base staff have been wondering what has been consuming so much of your attention as of late. Ever since the loss of the Overseer of North America, you have spent little time outside of the labs. Rumors have begun to circulate, and I hope to receive any information I can pass along to dismiss such rumors.

Of course, of course, the Honored Overseer said, powering off the console in front of them. Come, observe. G-21 has actually come at the perfect time for an explanation. With a wave of the hand, the Ethereal gestured for the Sectoid to follow, and the two made their way to the set of Valqan-filled tanks on the other side of the Lab.

What this one has spent so much of their time doing is something that has been long overdue. New One infiltrators, blessed with the Gift and the knowledge of their place upon the Path.Their templates have provided them the Gift, but this one has brought them that much closer to perfection. Deft hands poked at the console in front of the tanks, and one of the center tanks began to cycle out the orange liquid, replaced with air. The New One inside sunk to the floor of the tank, and as the tank opened and the air supply disconnected, he slid onto the floor, sinking to his knees reflexively as he slowly gained consciousness.

I... there is no tank? So cold... a new set of thoughts intruded into the minds of the two other psions, as the human slowly shook himself awake.

Arise, first of the six, the Honored Overseer projected, switching from the formal form of their language to the familial as they spoke to the human. You are Germael, the Majesty of God. Stand, and take your place as the leader of my chosen.

Slowly Germael stood, bare muscles rippling under the bright lights of the Lab. As you wish, milord, he replied.

Only six of them? G-21 asked, shooting an inquisitive look at the Honored Overseer.

They are the first. If need be, more shall be made. Consider them a... test. The Ethereal gazed back upon Germael. Germael, your development has been excellent. You were bred for perfection, and your genes have delivered. I have blessed you with the Gift of Control, use it to command your siblings to victory.

As you wish, milord. Germael bowed his head respectfully. If I might ask, what are the names of my kin?

Next to awake shall be Rampel, Angel of Endurance, Gifted with the merging of Control and Wisdom. Afterwards shall arise Kafziel, the Speed of God, blessed with the merging of Power and Wisdom, and Gradhiel, the Might of God, manifesting the Gift of Power. Following the previous two shall be Jophiel, Angel of Enlightenment, Gifted with Wisdom. Lastly shall be Rehael, Angel of Respect, Gifted with the merging of Control and Power. They are your siblings, they shall trust you above all else.

And what of you, milord? What shall I call you?

The Ethereal paused for a moment, contemplating an answer. After a moment, they replied. I am Desperatio.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Ethereal Base PF114-5
September 23rd, 1000 Hours, Local Time

Avaritia looked down on the older man and his two guards, and wondered if the latter two really thought they'd have any hope here in a fight. At the very least, he could respect their devotion to their job.

"So, I... I'm sorry, but..." The man swallowed hard, his business suit practically drenched with a nervous sweat. "We appreciate your more peaceful approach, especially compared to your predecessor. But I'm afraid the American people can not bow down to the Ethereals, especially after..."

So, Mr. President, is that your final answer? You won't surrender to us... not matter what?

The man shook nervously, but nodded his head. The Muton Elites standing nearby lifted their weapons, awaiting the order to execute the President and his men. Avaritia's chest heaved in what resembled a sigh.

Very well. Go... leave my sight. Enjoy your trip home...

The three men looked at each other in surprise. One of the Elites walked up to them and lifted his weapon, motioning for the exit. As they left the room, a Sectoid Commander walked up to the Ethereal.

Shall we dispose of them out of your sight, Lord? Avaritia raised his hand, and the commander clenched at his throat, his eyes somehow bugging out even more then usual. I... forgive me Lord, I... foolishly... mistook... Avaritia released his grasp, and the bulbous-headed alien sulked away.

Are you trying to ruin my reputation? People usually aren't inclined to work with you if they don't believe you will work with them.

O-of course... forgive me, Honored One... The Commander quickly retreated from the room before Avaritia changed his mind and he lost his head.

A young red-head with a Grecian accent walked up Avaritia. "Are you okay, Ava? You seem... stressed."

Stressed, who's stressed? It would probably been kinder to kill him, since if I couldn't convince him, North America would fall under Ira's control. Why would I... be stressed?

The woman scoffed. "Come now, you aren't exactly acting like yourself. I mean, after you lost one of your best fighters going after those four, not to mention your best supply barge in New York, you... didn't even lose your tempter."

Really, Konstantina, I didn't lose my temper, and this tells you something is wrong?

The woman folded her arms. "Well, no offense, oh 'Honored One', but you can be kinda materialistic. To lose those ships and not even blow a whole in a wall? Come on." She sat at the Ethereal's side, rubbing one of his hands.

I... I'm just... Avaritia looked at the Elites. Everyone out. The Mutons nodded, and everyone walked out, leaving Avaritia and Konstantina alone. The Ethereal reached up and slowly removed his helmet. Speaking in a raspy, barely used voice, he said, "I... warned them. We watched this planet for years. I told them our usual tactics wouldn't work. That our only chance would be to..." He slowly shook his head. "After... what happened with Luxuria and Gula... after what I've seen the humans do... after my 'meeting' with Invidia..."

"You aren't having doubts about the Path, are you?" Konstantina asked.

The Ethereal placed his helmet back on. No, of course not. Though our tactics might have been flawed, our purpose is still true. I only hope that he can convince your kind to join us after this is over.

Konstantina smiled and nodded. Walking towards the door she had entered through, she called back, "Come see Kyriakos when you have time latter. He's been asking to see you again for a while now."

I will... I will...

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

X-COM Headquarters
Section 2-4 Storage Room
September 23rd, 1000 Hours, Local Time

Morrigan folded her arms as she looked over the four very different aliens, eying each of them up and trying not to stare at the particularly large one. "So... who calls the shots with you?"

Conquest took a step forward. "We primarily work with an understanding that everyone's opinion on a matter is important. However, when said opinion is split, it is I that makes the final decision."

Morrigan nodded and took a deep breath. "As I'm sure you are aware, we have a number of aliens on our base, one of which is allowed to work in the labs, and another that has proved himself quite valuable on the battlefield. This should tell you I am open minded. But that only means I am not blind to the possibility that things are not what they seem, including a potential ally amongst the enemy, or a potential enemy pretending to be an ally."

Conquest nodded. "It is my hope that you would not be so foolish to not be suspicious."

"Good." Morrigan smiled a bit. "I am, however, aware of the contributions you have made to the survival of my team. So, I feel obliged to assist you in some manner. If that means allowing you to join X-COM under supervision..."

Conquest held up his hand. "Apologies, Commander, but we will not be joining your organization." Noting Morrigan's curious look, he continued, "This is not the first time we have formed an alliance with the leaders of a particular world attempting to defend themselves. We wish to continue to be of assistance, but know that we fight for our own reasons. We have different ideals, different beliefs on how this war should be fought, and to stay with you would eventually have us clash. It has happened before. Thus, we only ask that you give us sanctuary until our ship can be returned to working order."

The Commander closed her eyes in thought. After a few moments, she slowly opened them and nodded. "Very well. Though your ship is in pieces, and it will take quite a while to gather the components you'll need from other ships we salvage. We have certain rules here that I'll expect you to follow until then." The four aliens nodded. "First, stay out of the refugee area. Second, I will give you a list of restricted areas you will avoid unless with an escort." She looked up at War. "I'll also give a list of areas you should avoid for size reasons, as well as the location of cargo elevators you can use." The large alien bowed his head in appreciation.

"Can we have access to a training room to keep our abilities fresh?" Famine asked, rolling his shoulders. "Gotta stay in shape, after all."

"I will assign time for you to use our holo-training room." Morrigan looked around the large supply room. "I will also have supplies brought here so you can convert it into a temporary barracks. I would assign you better quarters, but..." She again looked at War, this time with a bit of guilt.

Famine tapped his large colleague on the side. "Don't worry about it, Commander. He's used to it."

"This likely goes without saying, but refrain from fighting with the soldiers. Some are going to be wary of you being here. They are generally disciplined, but some are more aggressive then others. And refrain from using psionics if possible." Morrigan glanced at Death, hidden as always under her cloak. "Finally, I would ask why you seem to have an Ethereal with you if they are your greatest enemy."

Death slowly floated forward, pulling her hood down. As I told your soldier, I am not an Ethereal. I am simply a mistake. And I fight for the chance to make the Ethereals pay for their mistake.

Morrigan raised an eyebrow. "You look different from the others. You look... um..."

I believe 'youthful' is the word you are looking for. I am young, even by human terms. But my appearance has more to do with my meaning for being. Death covered her face again. Most Ethereals are 'born' as disheveled as they are as adults. They require a lot of work to survive until they have built up enough psionic energy to support themselves. I, on the other hand, am the result of over a century of work to make an Ethereal that was what they once were. But that wasn't enough for them. They act like their path 'shall take its course', but many of them are far more impatient then they let on. They experimented on me. They believe that, if they still had the link between body and mind, they could easily achieve their precious Ascension with what they know now. But when that didn't immediately prove true for me, they simply decided something was wrong with me, and attempted to correct those problems.

"And... the results?" Morrigan asked cautiously.

Death lifted a hand, an aura of black energy surrounding it. You can call me a... black psion, I suppose. I am the closest the Ethereals have ever come to producing someone with a mastery of all six colors. But despite everything they've tried after that, I never reached their damnable White psionics. She dropped her arm, a bolt of energy shooting into the ground and leaving a small hole. It is a lie! Their Ascension, their religion, their whole reason for being... their whole reason for slaughtering thousand... MILLIONS... is a LIE! There is no Ascension. Which means they will never find what they are looking for, which means if we do not stop them, this will go on forever, and more and more will die!

Morrigan slowly nodded. "I... understand." She cleared her throat. "If you need anything else..."

War stepped forward and knelled down. "Water. Lots of water..."

 

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 & BMPixy

“Juggernaut”
XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
Gymnasium
1921 Local Time

A lightning jab connected with the pad, sending Lovikov’s right hand back. The left pad went up, and Albert connected with a straight cross into the hand. A brief pause as the pad returned to its lowered position, and Albert waited for the opportunity for the next punch. A horizontal hand prompted a short uppercut, and one to Lovikov’s ribcage demanded a hook.

A few minutes of the call-and-response passed, until the Scout waved a hand, ending the impromptu training. “Alright Foulke, I think that’s enough for now,” Lovikov said, peeling off the pads.

Albert relaxed his guard, rolling his shoulder slightly. “I dunno how you’re feeling, I could probably go for another hour or so,” he replied.

“Yeah, well you’re not the one with the feisty girlfriend,” Lovikov added with a shrug.

“Eh, Summers keeping you up late? Best let you go then.” Albert patted the other man on the shoulder, and Lovikov jogged out of the gymnasium. With a slight stretch, Albert made his way over to a punching bag, and continued his drilling.

A few minutes afterwards, another person entered the gymnasium, a woman appearing to only be eighteen, with hair dyed silver. Emma paused, looking over the man present. Name?

Albert Foulke, Avanix responded after a moment of consideration.

Satisfied with the answer, Emma approached the infantry. “Good evening, Mr. Foulke.”

Albert paused in his drill, a hand pushing out to stop the punching bag from impacting him, and glanced over at Emma. He briefly racked his brain for a name, but little came up. But that face does look familiar… could it be? he thought.

“You must be one of the Legionnaires,” Albert said, leaning back. “I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage, since you seem to know of me and I lack that knowledge.”

The clone tapped her head. “I have a connection to our A.I. Avanix keeps me informed.” She bowed slightly. “Emma Exalt, at your service.”

Albert’s expression soured slightly, but a quick shake of the head dismissed it. “Right. Excellent, meeting you, Ms. Exalt. I’d shake your hand, but…” He raised the hand in question, encased in a boxing glove.

Emma smiled slightly in amusement, before thinking for a few moments. “I believe I have reviewed some of your battle footage… you are very quick at analyzing situations in the heat of battle. Is it merely calm and thinking on your feet, or do you have something more that allows for this?”

“I’d like to say it’s a bit of both, but to be frank,” Albert replied, stepping over to a nearby bench and retrieving a towel, wrapping it around his bare shoulder, “it is mostly the latter. The secret is tachypsychia, slowing down the perception of time to give yourself more time to think.” With that remark, he tapped his temple with his hand.

“Interesting. The cybernetic implants on my brain do allow for quicker thinking, but recently I have considered the possibility that I could use them to replicate an effect similar to what you just described. Perhaps...we could test this with a contest?” Emma suggested, shrugging her shoulders in a faint motion.

Albert wiped some sweat from his face with the towel, and replied with an inquisitive look, “What kind of contest are you thinking of?”

“Perhaps some sort of sparring match, or a combat simulation?” the silver-haired clone offered, glancing around the room.

The Amero-Anglican tossed the towel back onto the bench. “Sparring match is probably for the best. For one, I’ve been meaning to find a sparring partner for a while, and two is that the best way to figure out how something works is to try to figure out how to beat it. Simple fact of life.”

Emma nodded, going to grab a set of gray gloves that fit her. “Very well, then. Though if you have experience in boxing, you are likely favored here.” She smiled slightly. “I don’t mind a challenge.”

Albert rolled his shoulders as he settled into an orthodox cross arm guard. “Just fight as you normally would. Don’t worry about styles, and worrying about winning.” Slowly Albert edged away from the wall, placing himself so he had some room to maneuver.

Emma slowly circled around Albert, analyzing the infantry carefully. Even with my physical condition augmented, he’s physically stronger, so I should focus on dodging and striking blows in any gaps. The clone watched him with her reactive eyes, her implants working to quickly process the data and give her time to think.

Albert simply matched Emma’s circling, keeping a shoulder width between them. Don’t know how she fights, better stay defensive until I can figure out her rhythm, work from there. Probably best if I keep my distance, utilize my longer reach to my advantage. He tucked in his guard slightly, eyes locked with Emma’s.

The clone, deciding she had waited long enough, sprung into action, going for a sweeping kick to try and throw Albert off, though she didn’t put an undue amount of energy into it, prepared to redirect her motion if it failed. Time seemed to slow down slightly, but it wasn’t quite what Emma was hoping for.

 

[BMPixy]

Foulke slid back, avoiding the sweep by a single step, before returning to his original position across from Emma. A moment passed as he waited for the clone to recover, before Albert shot a lightning jab into Emma’s guard, testing the distance between the two.

The move half-connected, hitting Emma as she was pulling away from the blow. Not quick enough...work for me, implants… The shadow operative increased the distance slightly, and worked harder to consider her options and predict what was going to happen next.

Need to keep up the pressure, get her to show how she fights. Albert moved to maintain the distance he had set, occasionally shooting a jab at Emma to ensure that the adequate amount of pressure was placed upon her. He could feel the adrenaline slowly working its way through his veins, but time did not yet begin to slow.

Emma soon went on the offensive again, sending two jabs with both hands, then three alternating. Keep modifying variable of attack, an orthodox pattern would be too predictable.

Albert absorbed the blows upon his guard, the crossed arms preventing the punches from reaching his vulnerable head and body. He stepped back slightly, relenting slightly under the flurry of blows. In the war against the wind, those who stand firm break first, he thought, remembering his coach’s words. Instead bend, and when the wind dies, strike back.

Too bad neural feedback is useless here… though if I had mind control like Elene, that would probably equate to cheating. Emma shrugged aside the unhelpful thoughts, and let up on her assault, deciding on a new strategy. She kept her defenses adequate, but left an intentional gap or two that she could quickly close and use to react when Albert took the bait.

Now! With the mental prompt, Albert hopped to the right, switching guards as he did so. From his new peek-a-boo guard, he shot out short one-two combinations of jabs and crosses at Emma’s guard, in an attempt to settle her into a pattern of dodging and guarding.

Emma raised one arm in a cross, ignoring the flash of muted pain from blocking a hit more directly, and with her right hand attempted to hit the side of Albert’s arm and impair his ability to strike with his right.

Albert took the hit on his arm, rolling his arm with the blow to minimize the damage. After he coiled around, he shot a left hook into Emma’s ribs, exploiting the hole in her guard he made from forcing her to block.

The clone grimaced, and fell back, but did her best to avoid favoring one side over the other. Defensive… need time to recover and consider my options.

Albert pressed his advantage, keeping that same steady distance between himself and Emma. Left jabs continued to shoot out, switching targets between high and low, trying to find another vulnerability in the clone’s guard. Just need one more opening. One more and that’s it.

Take a gamble? I think I have to. Emma quickly raised her arms, losing the defensive cross for a moment, with the intent to quickly swing them back together and put a swift and painful amount of pressure on any arm that came through, and shove it away from her.

“Checkmate!” Albert exclaimed, leaning back slightly before launching a low cross straight into Emma’s stomach, throwing a significant amount of force into the blow.

The clone’s arms crossed, and she put as much weight into the downstroke as possible. Albert’s arm was forced away from her, but pain shot through Emma’s, her thinner limbs taking the hit as hard as his did, if not taking more damage.

Albert grunted in pain from the counter-strike as his momentum carried him forward, his fist sliding past Emma harmlessly and his right flank vulnerable. Not good, that really opened me up, he thought, as he desperately tried to regain his balance before any blows could rain in.

Are you certain he doesn’t have iron skin? Emma thought in frustration.

I am, Avanix replied

Emma knew her arms were not going to be of any use for the time being, but she did have the weapon from the start of the match at her disposal. She launched a swift kick at Albert’s side, intending to knock the wind out of him and maybe even force him to the ground. I hate pain.

The leg connected, hitting hard into Albert’s side. A stifled cry of pain escaped from his lips, and he could feel his vision blurring slightly. Good thing I always exhale after I strike, that would have done some heavy damage… but now’s my chance! With the surge of adrenaline from the blow pumping through his veins, Albert’s perception of time slowed, and his arm shot out and wrapped around Emma’s leg, holding it in place against his side. With the limb neutralized, Albert regained his balance, and with his left arm began to rain jabs against Emma’s guard.

As all of this occurred, Emma could feel her vision began to slow as well, but unfortunately for the clone, she could not do anything with the information it allowed her. When she tried to move her arms to defend herself, pain shot through them, and ultimately the blows were too much, and she lost her balance, tumbling to the ground.

The Amero-Anglican let loose the captured leg, letting it fall to the floor with the rest of Emma’s body. He returned to his guard, waiting for her to either get back up or yield.

Emma considered doing the former, but then realized that would require the assistance of her arms. That is not an option. “I...concede the victory to you,” she said finally with a tone of disappointment.

With a sigh, Albert lowered his guard, offering a helping hand to Emma. “That was a good fight, I might say. If you’d been a bit quicker on the recovery of the kick, it would have been a much longer brawl.”

Emma winced as she got to her feet. “I unfortunately have a rather low pain tolerance, as I learned in Monument Valley.”

Albert shrugged, and began peeling off the gloves. “Best way to help with that is to exhale when you hit, and to roll with any oncoming blows. The first relaxes your torso, allowing you to bend with the blow, and the second is just a good habit to have.”

“I shall remember that.” Emma shrugged, quickly regretting the movement. “In any case, the experiment was at least partially successful in replicating the tachypsychia state in myself. And I became acutely aware of when you went into it as well.”

“Good on you,” Albert replied, breathing deeply to purge the adrenaline from his system. “If you ever want to practice it some more, or if you have any questions involving it, you’ll probably get your AI to hunt me down.”

“Perhaps I will. This was enjoyable.” Emma tested her arms again, the pain beginning to subside. “Until next time, Mr. Foulke.” She turned, and began to depart.

Albert kept an eye out as she left, slowly peeling the tape off of his hands. He let out one last sigh, before walking over and grabbing his towel, wiping himself down. Now I know I can beat one of them, he internally monologued, But the rest are still a mystery in the event they turn. Need to be prepared. Pulling his shirt back on, Albert grabbed his bag, slung it over his shoulder, and made his way out of the gym.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSplitter53
"Know thy Enemy: Part One"

Luxuria Containment Cell
September 23rd, 1100 Hours

The captive Ethereal starred forward as she continued to craft her Emily-looking Avatar, having trouble getting it just right. She would constantly find something she saw as a flaw, do something to ‘fix’ it, then realize she has changed it to much from the original, change it to look more like Emily, and find she was usually back where she started. The avatar looked with excitement at the opening door, but seeing it wasn’t the object of her desire, Luxuria dissipated her copy, not wanting anyone to see it without the original present.

Desmond stepped into the room with a passive look on his face as he eyed the Ethereal. He had a slight limp from the bruises on his abdomen but he stood straight with his hands behind his back. “So...we finally meet.”

Indeed we do. It is good to finally meet you… whoever you are. Luxuria folded her for arms, wondering if she had the concept of sarcasm down yet.

“Very funny.” Desmond stated, his gaze hardened. “The name is Desmond Walker.”

Desmond… yes, I saw you in the minds of two others. A friend, and a sister. You are one of the top soldiers to accept the Gift. In that sense, it is good to meet you. I would like to meet you under better circumstances, but I am afraid that I am… grounded, I suppose you could say.

“Because you are our enemy. You use your powers to subjugate others, to enslave them to your will for your own purpose. There is a reason I stayed away.” Desmond stepped forward. “I can’t say it is a pleasure to see you.”

Yes, yes, I have heard it all before. I do hope you have not come to lecture me. The Ethereal stretched her hand forward. I could probe your mind to find your reason for being here if you wish, though I believe you would act negatively, as the others usually do. So sensitive, you humans.

“I don’t know what you did to the others, and frankly I don’t care. There is nothing you can do to me.” Desmond informed her. “You are powerless.”

A surge of energy emanated from Luxuria, but she seemed to keep her cool, having gotten used to being addressed as such. Is… that so? I feel you underestimate me. She turned her back on Desmond. You fancy yourself impervious, But I beg to differ. There is more than one way to affect you. Such as doing so indirectly. Unless you are as heartless as you seem to let on, I’m sure I can hurt you through others. Perhaps I should wait for Eve to return. Then there is Elene. I know I will see her again. Perhaps I showed too much restraint the last time she was here.

“You tread on dangerous terrain. Threatening my family and friends are not a good way to extend your life. Now I don’t care what anyone else thinks, but you are not trustworthy. And as much as I hate you for what you have done, not all of you should be prosecuted for it.” Desmond took another step closer. “But you are making it hard to find anything redeemable about you.”

An odd sound resonated inside of the Ethereal’s mask, and after a moment, Desmond realized it was laughter. Oh, dear, I am sorry, Desmond. I am afraid I have hurt your feelings. Dear me, how foolish of me. I wouldn’t want to push you so far as to kill me and free me from the torment of knowing my energy feeds the shields that keep my people from reaching into the base. She knelt down, moving close to the glass. Please forgive me… I beg of you…

Desmond did not move but finally he knelt down and stared at the Ethereal. “You really are an annoyance. I can see why people make you out to be a monster...I always wondered why Emily was being so hesitant with training and now I know the problem.”

I must ask you something, human? I believe it is a case of what your people call empathy. If you were in my place, and my people were holding you captive, would you be cooperative? Would you… care how they felt about you? Because I do not. There is only one I care about. And as of late, I fear I have done more harm than good in that. So please spare me you disapproving comments, for I am your prisoner, and I have been offered nothing to be cooperative. I had an opportunity to get something, but that was taken from me. And I doubt you have anything to offer.

Desmond shrugged his shoulders. “Be that as it may, I have to say I was expecting more.” Desmond closed his eyes and began to meditate in front of the Ethereal. “If you have questions, then ask me. I am pretty sure I already know all I care about you.”

Very well. Since you are offering… you mentioned Emily. I take it you have attempted to assist her in developing her abilities. How is she progressing?

Desmond did not look up. “She is inexperienced, wants too much of what she can’t have, but at least she is eager.” Desmond waited a minute. “I assume it is you who is filling her head with empty promises of power?”

My promises are never empty. Do not bring me down to the level of a human. I have promised not to try and convince anyone to let me out anymore, and I have kept that promise. I have promised to refrain from reading the thoughts of others, and I have kept that promise. I have promised that, with me, she shall obtain fantastic power that you could never give her. I intend to keep that promise.

Desmond grinned, though his head was bowed so Luxuria couldn’t see it. “Unfortunately...that is not true. Cause there are things humans have developed that even you… ‘mighty’ Ethereals have not developed. Two of which I helped create. So yes, there are things I can teach her that even you couldn’t.”

You… have a point, I suppose. Your ‘dreamscape’ is quite intriguing. I can see why the humans were targeted in the first place, and why Avaritia has such high hopes for you. I am… not so proud to not admit your people surprise me at times.

“Well you aren’t pride, are you? You are lust. That is your base instinct, so you chase after it like a dog chasing a tail.” Desmond looked up. “There is a reason that the seven deadly sins are deadly. They lead to ruin.”

Luxuria squeezed her hands shut. You… are quite insufferable. You act as though you come to me to talk… but it seems you just come to insult me. Does it feed your human pride to mock one who has been defeated, thrown into a cage, and is looked upon like an animal in a zoo? Does it give you satisfaction to look down on me like your inferior, all the while talking down on the superior beliefs of my people. You… are a hypocrite, like so many of your kind. And despite your boasting, your pride reminds me of my own kind.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Know thy Enemy: Part Two"

Desmond looked at her. “What do you think you know about me? You look at me so one-sided but how do you know this wasn’t my plan all along? To make you get riled up so I see your true colors. You see...I am not a one-sided person Luxuria.”

You could have fooled me… Luxuria’s thoughts almost sounded sad as she turned away. I would say whatever your plans, you have succeeded in beating me down even more then I was. Congratulations, Mr. Walker. I now wish…

“What? That you were dead or some stupid shit like that?” Desmond simply asked. “It seems I was wrong about you. I would have thought you would have tried to act out, try to do something to try and turn the situation around but it seems to me like you are slowly giving up.”

Luxuria tilted her head down, not looking back. I… have grown wary, Desmond. And I could tell from your first words that I would not be able to turn anything back on you. Call it your strength, call it your stubbornness. I do not care. I have lost everything. My status, my base, my subjects, my family. And my pride. And without that, what am I? Just a… powerful battery, and a means for people like you to amuse yourself with. But what should you care. After all, I am surely just deceiving you, right?

“The funny thing about that is, you can’t deceive me. I have been taught to look past deception. You are telling the truth but I don’t get pleasure from this. But I also don’t like being ill prepared.” Desmond continued to stare at her. “You may not realize but I know suffering. I know how it is to be alone, with no hope and only yourself to look to. You are lonely… and you don’t want to be. That is why you cling to Emily, because she is the one that gives you hope for a better future than the empty one you had before, isn’t it?”

I… must see Emily. My future all depends on her continuing to see me. She is the only one who can possibly understand me, even if she does not yet. And whether she believes me or not, I want to give her the power she searches for… that she deserves…

“But how is it your decision to make that choice for her?” Desmond asked her. “If you truly cared for her the way you say, then why did you continually try and force her into things? Stealing her body was a prime example. I think what you fail to realize is that forcing her to do things like that is not for her sake, it is for your own.”

I have learned from my mistake, and I have told her as much! Luxuria turned back to Desmond. And I have assured her I will never try that again. It is her decision. Even if it wasn’t, I can do little to force her into it from here. And she will make the choice to come back to me because it is the right choice. She will, unless she is stopped by those who would keep her from finding her true potential. I… She shook her head. I have faith. You understand faith, do you not? It is an important part of my people’s way of life, in our search for Ascension. And I have faith that I can guide Emily to it.

Desmond stared a little curiously at her. “Are you asking if I am religious? Or if I have faith in general?”

Luxuria seemed to consider the question for a few moments. I… suppose I am asking in general.

Desmond sighed contemplatively and stared at her. “Am I religious? No, I am not. Do I have faith...well that is harder to answer. I have faith in myself, I have faith that we will defeat you. I do not have faith in the Council of Nations or their intention with Elene after the war, or how humanity will advance with these new techs and powers.”

Then I recommend you stay close to those you consider your friends and family. Should you win this war, and drive us away, it will not be easy for the humans to adjust to the sudden leap in technology. Your faith in yourself will not be enough. You must have faith in those that have earned your trust.

“The bonds I have formed over these past months have changed me, for better or for worse, but they have changed me. I was alone. I had no family, no friends, all I had was myself. It gave me power but it made me reckless. I would have served fine as a martyr. But I have lived. I found a purpose and I refuse to let anything happen to it.” Desmond stood up and walked to the glass. “I am not a normal person, I barely have a need to call myself human but if there is one thing I know it is that I will not allow myself to fall back to that previous state.”

Luxuria nodded. Good. If that is so, hold on to it. At least someone should profit from this war, no matter how it turns out.

 

[MarineAvenger]

"Know thy Enemy: Part Three"

Desmond looked at the controls of the Ethereal’s cage. “What would you do if I lowered the dampeners? Would you try and trick me as before and break your promise or could you resist that call of power?”

Luxuria folded her arms. I am not so foolish as to think I could escape at this point. And I would not leave as long as Emily is still here. I would simply… enjoy the opportunity to have something resembling the power I had before. Though… I wouldn’t recommend it. We are being watched, after all.

“I am not thinking about letting you go. I want to see what you will do.” Desmond put a hand on the controls and looked up at the observers behind the glass. “I am going to do something with her. I need to lower the dampeners a bit.”

After a few moments, the locks on the dampeners were released to a degree.

Desmond lowered the intensity of the barrier and reached out to Luxuria with his power, him allowing her into his ‘dreamscape’. “Come, we should speak more privately.”

Luxuria entered Desmond’s mind. She appeared before him looking much like she normally did, though she looked distinctly younger. “What did you need of me, Desmond?”

Desmond looked at her, standing much taller now that he was free of his exterior pain, though a slight tingle made sure he didn’t completely forget it. “I want to hear what you have to say. Nothing about Emily, nothing about your ‘Path’ or ‘Ascension’, I want to get to know the Ethereals for what they are and not what humans brand them as or without you sprouting you ideals about psionics. I want to hear the real you, cause I don’t think anyone has given you that chance, have they?”

“The real me?” Luxuria folded her arms. “Well… aside from our devotion to the Path, the Ethereals are a prosperous people. Such things as civil wars and violence amongst our own… the need for such things at all have been gone for centuries. As for myself personally, I suppose you would call me one devoted to their work. I have a passion for what I do, and I devote myself to it. Though I will admit, that has caused me some trouble with others. They would likely call me… impulsive.”

Desmond nodded. “What about family? Are they still alive?”

“My mother… what your people might call a mother... perished on the planet that produced what you refer to as Incubators. My father…” Luxeria shook her head. “He… is complicated to talk about…”

Desmond nodded again. “Anything else you would like to get off your chest before I let you ask your questions for me? I believe that is how you do things.”

Luxuria shook her head. “No. I am afraid… speaking of such things is foreign to me.” She thought for a moment. “I do have one more question for you, though I fear you will be offended by it.”

“Ask.” Desmond simply told her. “I did not bring you in my mind to not let you speak.”

“Would it not be better to simply… stop fighting,” Luxuria asked. “You have seen what we have to offer, and we now know that kind of potential your people have. I can not speak with any certainty, but I am sure my people would accept you into our way of life. We could be allies, spreading the word of the Path across the galaxy. Would that not be better than fighting and dying.”

“Let me answer you with a question. If given the choice between ultimate power and being with the ones you love, what would you choose? Would you let the ones you love die to gain something for yourself or would you stick by the ones you love, even if it meant giving up that power forever?”

Luxuria stood in silence for several moments, seemingly unable to answer. After a while, she slowly shook her head. “It… is hard for me to answer subjectively. I was one born into such power. It has always been a part of me. But… I understand the point you are trying to make. Though, be warned… some humans, if asked the same question, might not answer they way you might have hoped.”

“It is to be expected. Humanity is not perfect, and neither is anyone else. If there is one thing history has told us though, it is that humans, when coming together for the same goal, can accomplish great things. Our differences separate us but they also make us alike. Humans are capable of great things when they have something to fight for, and that is why you will lose this war, your sense of compassion for one another has been clouded.”

“Hmm…” Luxuria shook her head. “Perhaps you are right. But we shall see, won’t we?”

“Yes, we will.” Desmond looked at Luxuria one more time. “Might I ask one more thing while we are still alone? I don’t know how important it is to you but I would like to know anyways.”

“If you wish,” the Ethereal answered.

“May I see you without your mask? I want to see what you really look like.” Desmond told her.

Luxuria reached up defensively. “I… I can’t, Desmond. I am sorry. But it is a part of who I am. If I did, it would be giving up what little I have left of my sense of self. I hope you can understand that. To take off my mask to you… to anyone other than an Ethereal… even to some other Ethereals, would be like you exposing your most guarded secrets to anyone.”

Desmond nodded, respecting her wishes. “It was worth a try.” Desmond reached into his pockets. “Shall we go?”

Luxuria slowly lowered her hands, seemingly surprised that Desmond didn’t push for it. “Y… yes, please.”

Desmond dissolved the dreamscape and opened his eyes back to reality. “Thank you for that. Even if we fight you, at least someone should be made to understand you. I am sure you told Emily some of this but she is too close to you to fully understand the power of your words.”

Perhaps. Though… perhaps I should tell her more. She seems quite interested. If I was more open, that could help us…

“Desmond!” Morrigan stomped into the room. “What… are… you… doing here!?”

Desmond turned around surprised, wincing as he had forgotten about his bruised abdomen. “M-Morrigan?! Wait, wait, I can explain!”

“Oh, can you now?” Morrigan rushed over to him, seemingly oblivious of the fact that she needed to stand on her toes to prevent Desmond from towering over her too much as she lectured him. “You sneak out of your room to come to speak with dangerous aliens that could easily find a way to use that to their advantage. And is this hear about you picking fight with people fresh off the plane?” She lightly poked Desmond in the side.

Desmond winced. “Damn it…” He said as his side flared up with pain. “It was only for a few hours. Besides, I am still technically being watched.” Desmond nudged his head towards the observers if they haven’t already left. “And besides, I had to discipline my new men. I can’t appear weak to them after all.” Desmond gave a nervous laugh.

Morrigan sighed. “No, I suppose you can’t. But next time, wait until you hadn’t just got out of the infirmary to prove as such.” She offered her arm in case he needed help, and motioned her head towards the Ethereal. “And be careful around her. She’s better a deception then most people believe.”

“Trust me…” Desmond looked back at Luxuria with a brief smile. “I doubt she could do anything to me like that.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Adrammalech & ZombieSplitter53
Curious New Allies

X-COM Headquarters
Section 2-4 Storage Room
September 23rd, 0200 Hours

Famine lifted the oddly shaped tool filled with the oddly smelling concoctions, wondering what the best way to do the experiment would be. Finally deciding that hesitation was a sign of weakness, he placed into into his mouth and slowly chewed. He quickly shook his head. “This is food? This is worse than those ten year old rations we had to live off of the week we were hiding in the canry belt.”

Conquest hid a shudder, and said, “You complain to much. War doesn’t seem to mind.” He motioned for the large alien pouring the contents of the makeshift bowl into his mouth.

“Hmm…” Famine gave him a curious stare. “I wonder if mixing everything like he tends to do makes it taste better…”

Emily approached the room warily, curious about the supposedly friendly aliens that were now squatting in the base. She wondered what the protocol would be for introducing herself without appearing too intrusive. After a moment of trying to figure it out, she peeked through the door and did a half-knock, probing for a response.

Three heads turned in her direction, and Famine smiled. “Oh, a visitor…”

Conquest stood up, considered grabbing his helmet, then decided this probably wasn’t formal. Opening the door, and looked down at the soldier. “How may we be of assistance?”

“Just curious about our new guests,” Emily said, moving into the doorway. “My name’s Emily, I’ve had some...personal dealings with the Ethereals.”

“Do you now?” Conquest waved for her to sit at their makeshift table. He glanced around the room, and noted that Death was hiding in the shadows somewhere. “What… kind of dealings. Knowing them, I doubt it was anything pleasant.”

“One of them tried to merge with my mind to steal my body,” she said utterly matter-of-factly, the shock value of the statement wearing off at this point. “I captured her and I’ve been meeting with her and getting an understanding of how they work. So, since I have all these alien thoughts in my mind...for better or worse...I thought I’d see if I could get some new perspectives.”

There was an uncomfortable silence in the room as the aliens took in Emily’s words. Famine cleared his thought. “Y-you… you… meet with her? Why?”

“First out of necessity, now it’s more like an obligation.”

“Obligation?” War turned towards Emily, suddenly speaking up. “You owe them nothing, no matter what they make you believe. They are monsters, and you have no reason to do what a captive asks.”

“Obligation to the base,” she replied, “Lux...it might have some useful information about our targets, and certain science projects here.”

The three aliens before Emily seemed to relax a bit, but Emily could feel a tense energy emanating from the dark corner.

Then everyone on this base is a fool. You should destroy her immediately, and be done with such a danger. If not, you shall all soon regret it.

“You wouldn’t call her a danger if you saw the cage we were in,” Emily said towards the corner with confidence. “I think even she’s losing hope for escaping.”

Death floated out of her corner, an aura of energy emanating off her. Conquest stood up. “Do not lose your senses. She…”

It is only a matter of time. How can you not see this? Think! She was in your mind, you should know her better than anyone else. She will trick someone. Most likely you. And then she’ll kill you, and everyone else here. Of course, that is if you are lucky not to have her use you to kill them for her.

“She has no reason to kill me,” Emily noted, looking away. “Although I understand your concern for the rest. I have her under control though. I’m using her as much as she’s using me.”

You… you can not!

“Enough!” Conquest folded his arms. “This is their base, their rules. And we shall abide by them as long as we are here. We will not have another repeat of your previous attempts to exert your authority that is something…” He trailed off

Death floated back a few feet. Something what? You… you were going to… say I was like... Her energy surged a bit, and she turned and exited the room, shaking a bit.

“Where is she going?!” Famine asked. “She’s going to get us kicked out in the first week!"

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

“Sorry,” Emily looked sadly towards the door. “I didn’t know that would be so offensive...if anything, I thought our solutions would look better than a kill them all strategy.”

Conquest shook his head. “There is nothing to apologize for. If anything, you are right. We have met a number of people that prefered this… ‘kill them all’ strategy. This aggressive tactic usually ended up making them as bad as the Ethereals, and in the end, they were destroyed by their narrow minded view.”

Famine chuckled. “Kinda hard to be mad at you for being open minded when it resulted in us being here. If it was otherwise, your allies would likely have killed her the moment they discovered she was an Ethereal. So if nothing else, you guys have my vote.”

“I’m glad,” Emily smiled, reclining in her seat. “So, did you come from the old homeworlds of the races we know, or did you escape the Ethereals’ clutches afterwards?”

“I was born on my home world,” Conquest answered. “My father escaped with me when our world was close to falling. He led our resistance, with me taking his place when he fell.”

“Escape for me.” Famine scooted a bit closer to Emily, enjoying the chance to talk about himself. “I was under their rule before they started turning my people into what you call Thin Men. Didn’t like killing people for no reason, probably because their mental programming wasn’t complete for me for some reason. I fought back, and probably been mulch if it was for the resistance saving me.

War shook his head. “I have no home world anymore.”

“I see...interesting,” Emily said. “And you’re all resisting their empire together...do they know about you? Are there more of you that we might be able to help?”

The three exchanged a look. Conquest shook his head. “I am afraid not. Had we found a planet like Earth that was still in the midst of defending themselves, things might have been different. But I am afraid the last planet we tried to save… we…” He slowly shook his head.

Famine gritted his teeth. “Dra vilganc padnyoat ic. Drao cumt ic uid!” He slammed his fist on the table.

Emily pulled back a little, looking between the two aliens worriedly. She decided not to speak about it further.

Famine noted Emily’s expression, and calmed down. “I’m… I’m sorry. I…” He stood up and walked away, climbing on War’s shoulder and sighing.

“The Ethereals offered to leave the last planet we aligned with alone if they… turned us in,” Conquest explained. “They accepted. Of course, the Ethereals were planning on leaving the planet anyway. That way they could keep their honor, whatever that means for them. But in the end, we were wiped out. We lost many proud warriors that day, including one Famine was close to. Now it is just the four of us, doing what we can.”

“I see...I’m sorry for your losses,” Emily said with sincerity, leaning back in. “The Ethereals seem to enjoy taking people away.”

War nodded. “That they do.”

Conquest sighed. “I apologize. We did not mean for our first real conversation with a human to turn so sour.” He grabbed an oversized glass of water, modified for the Mutons on base. “I believe your people have something called a toast. I would like to propose one to… to new allies. Though we have different methods, and different beliefs, we are united in our common enemy. We will not stop until the Ethereals are stopped, and the first step to that is getting them off your planet.”

“To new allies,” Emily smiled and returned the gesture, “I can’t describe it, but it comforts me deeply knowing that our species can work together. I feel like we can learn a lot from each other in time.”

Conquest noticed the figure peaking their head into the door. He subtle motioned his head so the others would notice. Taking a seat next to Emily, Famine whispered, “She really isn’t that bad, once you get to know her. She’s just… young, stubborn, and impulsive. I don’t know how they act in humans, but you Ethereals tend to be rash and short tempered.”

“Impulsive...that goes along with what I know,” Emily smirked, “so I understand.”

The group decided to ignore the young Ethereal, and she finally floated into the room on her own. Taking a seat across from Emily, she reached out a grabbed a bottle of water.

I… realized that I might have been… rude. I have decided it would be in the best interest of our alliance to… to apologize.

“No apologies needed,” Emily raised her hand. “I understand how you feel, and it’s something I’ve talked to a lot of people about. Just know we’re not taking this lightly.”

I understand. And although I disagree, you have as of yet given me reason to not trust you.

Famine hid a smile. “Ahem… so, Emily, why don’t you tell us a little about you.”

“I’m not that interesting,” Emily said before taking a sip of water. “What would you like to know?”

“Anything you’re willing to share.” Famine scooted closer again, his eyes aglow with curiosity.

“Well, I’m 27, been in the military for a good third of it,” Emily scratched her chin. “More interestingly, I went on the mission to attack the first Ethereal and now I have all of her memories trapped in my head, along with her powers and knowledge, but I can’t decipher it without her help. And that’s where the ‘necessity’ comes in…”

That sounds like such an invasive tactic. And impulsive, even for the Ethereals. Why would this one do such a thing… Death tilted her head slightly. Do you have the curse… I believe your people call it psionics.

“I do, with a great amount of caveats. I can’t learn freely like many of the others can.”

This should be something you are grateful for. You do not want to…

Conquest cleared his throat. “What was that you were saying about trust?”

Death nodded. I apologize again. I can understand that you would want to use the Curse against those that forced it on you. It is what I do. I only hope you have her as well contained as you believe.

“I believe we do, but thank you for the concern. Trust me, I’m watching her carefully, I’ve already stopped some of our more ‘enterprising’ allies from giving her too much room,” Emily replied, getting up from her seat. “I’m afraid I have some things to do today, but maybe I’ll come back later. I’d love to learn more about you all.”

“We would like that,” Famine quickly answered. “I know the big guy would. He’s said more today than he usually does.” War simply bowed his head towards Emily.

“I only hope your allies are as accommodating as you have been,” said Conquest.

 

[Frostlich1228]

Frostlich1228 & Zombiesplitter53: "A P.H.D. In Love"

X-COM Headquarters
Primary Infirmary

Ayame cracked her neck from side to side, a bit sore from her new training program. Everyone laughed at me when I was fighting dragons, but who's laughing now? Not those poor guys that got eat by the giant worm-dog-slime monster, that's for sure. She stepped into Mary's room, ready to offer help to her dear companion, and maybe do something normal for a while.

Mary laid in her bed looking up at the caramel-skinned, female doctor leaning over her, slowly working to remove the IV's from the gunner's arm. When Ayame entered the room, Mary turned towards her with a smile. "'Ey Ay'me!" She spoke, causing the doctor to stop what she was doing and turn around.

Ayame returned the smile. She glanced at the doctor, and trying her best to hide a jealous tone, asked, "Is, uh... everything good? Mary clear to leave?"

The doctor nodded, "I just need to get her IV's out and she'll be good to go. She'll need to be careful though, the area around her wound is still a little sore."

"I'll be sure to keep her from hurting herself." Ayame smiled at Mary. "I'm sure she's had enough of hospital food and people waiting on her, and is ready to get back to mess hall slop and exhausting training."

"'Ell, eh 'as asleep 'or most of 'at." Mary returned, her smile turning into a grin, "'An' 'ef 'eh stay 'eny 'onger 'eh 'ight 'art gett'in fat."

Ayame sat in a chair opposite the doctor, and lightly poked Mary's stomach, careful not to poke near her wound. "Hmm... I think I see what you mean. Someone is gettin' a bit portly. Just more of you to love."

"'Anks, but th' 'atter eh' get th' less 'ime eh' get te' spend 'en 'ed wit' ye'." Mary reminded her.

"Yeah, catch twenty-two." Ayame placed her head on the side of the bed, seemingly havong forgotten about the doctor. "Though to be honest, as much as I enjoy our time together, you being healthy is more important to me. If I could have taken that knife for your sister in your place, I would have in a heartbeat. I can probably only think of... I don't know, three other people in the whole world I can honestly say that about."

"Yer te' sweet." Mary replied, turning her head to give Ayame a kiss.

The doctor slowly pulled out the IV in Mary's left arm, when she was done she looked up towards the two of them, deciding to work on the IV's on her side of the bed first to give them space.

Ayame sighed. "Things have been... weird since you've been in here. What with the Ethereals in America, and the Central Officer being injured. And now... they... are here. Makes me so nervous..."

"They?" Mary repeated, turning her head a little, "Did 'eh miss sum'tin 'portant?"

"You could say that." Ayame groaned lightly. "Those 'Four Horsemen' alien's? I went on this mission, and it was a pretty good one. Got to spend time with Modya, a friend from the India campaign, toasted some aliens, was gonna bag me an Ethereal. Next thing I know, it turns into a rescue mission. And now they're here, on base. And the little one?" Ayame shifted her eyes around before whispering, "It's one of those Ethereals. Ain't that some shit? Go to kill one, end up bringing it home and giving it a room."

"'Weh al'eady 'ave one 'eh room, beh' 'least 'at one's locked." Mary replied, "'Eh je' dun't get et', 'en't weh' suppose te' be fight'in 'em?"

"Well, supposedly, this one has some grievance with the rest of the Ethereals." Ayame sat up and shook her head. "I... I don't want to sound paranoid. But what if it is a trick? Those other three could be working with it... or under its control. And even if it really is on our side, an Ethereal is an Ethereal. Who's to say it won't look at X-COM, think we're doing things wrong, and try to force us to do it how it wants it? Am I wrong to be suspicious?" The Asian gave Mary a serious look. "Is... is it me? Am I just being... prejudicial or something?"

"'Ye' not 'ong te' be. 'Ey are eh' enemies efter' ell'." Mary answered, "'An' et' 'eems dumb te' 'eep 'eh alien 'at can 'ind control 'eople 'en th' 'ase wit'out 'et 'east us'in 'ome kinda limitor 'en 'er."

"Yeah, that's true." Ayame smiled. "I'll tell Atka about that. The Commander likes her, and maybe she can convince her." Ayame placed her head on the bed again. "You're so smart, Mary, you know that?"

"Neh' 'eally... eh' 'oesn't 'ake eh' 'enious te' 'ome up wit' 'at idea." Mary responded.

Ayame pouted a bit. "You trying to say somethin' about me?"

Mary's eyes widened a little and shook her head, "N-No, Eh 'as talk'in 'bout 'meh idea. 'Eh je' dun't 'ink eh'm es' 'mart es' ye' say 'eh 'em."

Ayame chuckled, and gave Mary another quick kiss. Looking up at the doctor, she said, "Not to sound ungrateful, but ya almost done? I want to take my friend somewhere a bit less... hospitally. No offense."

"Yeah, I just need the one on your side..." The doctor spoke, hoping Ayame would get the hint.

Ayame grinned. "Oh, um... sorry. That would help, wouldn't it?" She got up, and stepped out of the doctor's way. "Be my guest, gud doktor."

The doctor moved over to Ayame's side of the bed and gently pulled the last IV from Mary's arm. She then put a hand on Mary's back and helped her sit upright. Mary cringed a little as the bending of her abdomen caused her some discomfort, but it quickly subsided.

"There you go." The doctor said cheerfully, "Bend or stretching your abdomen will probably cause you some discomfort for the next few days, but it won't be anything too serious."

"Al'ight." The gunner replied. "'Anks."

"No need, it's my job after all..."

Ayame watched the doctor step out as Mary started to get dressed. "So... were you... checking her out at all? Not that I care, of course."

"Well... I know I shouldn't have but... It was a little hard to keep my eyes away..." The dark skinned doctor replied, blushing slightly.

Ayame only narrowed her eyes.

"I'm sorry... I uh... Didn't know she was... taken... I heard she was... you know... free... So I was... thinking of giving her my number... Maybe..." The doctor felt more uncomfortable the more she talked, "I'm sorry... I... should just go..."

Ayame's eyes softened a bit. "Wait, I..." Ayame smiled. "Actually, I... if you were interested, I... Mary likes to have her... ahem, playmates. And you did take care of her..."

"You wouldn't mind? Are you sure?" The doctor spoke.

Ayame looked over to Mary, then immediately diverted her eyes at her birthday suit, not wanting to get ideas while the woman was recovering. Blushing a bit, she said, "Well, Mary and I have an... interesting relationship. We love each other, but she has her urges. And rather then have her stray, I'd prefer for her to satisfy these urges with someone I know I can trust. She has me, and another soldier. And then there could be... you. As long as you don't mind our odd relationship." She grinned. "And you of all people would know we're nice and clean, if you know what I mean."

"I'd be happy to! " The doctor smiled, but it faded slightly, "But we should give her some time to recover... The area around her wound is still really tender... Just... give it a few days..."

Ayame raised her hands. "Of course. I didn't mean to imply we jump on her now." She let her eyes wander to the side, and mumbled, "No matter how much I'd like to..."

"I should introduce myself. My full name is Shaunice Matthews, but I usually go by Matty. I never really liked my first name, but I just don't have the heart to change it." She replied, offering Ayame her hand.

"Ayame Kasagi," the Asian soldier responded, firmly grasping the doctor's hand. Smooth, Ayame. Real smooth. Did you seriously not get this woman's name before asking her to bone your girlfriend. Guess that is another check on the 'ignorant in the art of ralationships' book. Ayame shook her head. "I'm sorry if we got off to a rocky start. Never knew I was the jealous type. What time do you get off? Work, I mean! What time do you get off work!?"

Matty giggled a little bit, "What time I get off usually depends on how many patients there are, I'll even work twenty-four hours straight if there aren't enough doctors. That being said we haven't been super busy, so I'll try to take off in two hours if nothing comes up."

"Great. I'm sure Mary could go for something from the rec-room. You're free to join us." Ayame turned to Mary. "If that's okay with you, of course."

"Mmhm" Shaunice nodded, "I'm pretty good at pool, we could play that."

"What do say, Mary?" Probably should have asked her first, moron.

"E'hm al'ight wit' 'ool" Mary replied, "En' eh'm 'efinetely al'ight wit' tak'in 'er te' bed te'..."

Matty rubbed the back of her neck, "You heard all that?"

"'Eh 'ourse, th' 'oor was open."

"Oh... of course." Dr. Matthews responded.

"Ye' 'ow, eh' 'avn't 'een wit' many 'lack 'irls 'fore. Eh'm look'in for'ard te' et'" Mary smirked.

 

[Dahlexpert]

Dhalexpert & Marine Avenger

Meeting your friends family

Eva went to the Med Bay to visit her comrade to see how he was feeling. “Well your looking a lot better, how are you holding up cyborg?”


Desmond sat on the hospital bed wearing his normal clothes again and he was cleaning a pair of black revolvers. “Well, they say that I look fine now but are keeping me here for now. I will be able to return to the room in a week or so but I will need to come here weekly for regular check ups on my condition till the cure is found.”


“Well let’s hope that they find a cure soon, but your looking great. Hopefully you won’t slow me down when Viktor comes here. Can’t have you slowing me down or worse, dying on me in the middle of the fight.” Eva said with a smile.


Desmond looked at her curiously. “You really are a fatalist aren’t you?”

“Well, why deny the inevitable? There's no point but thankfully you're feeling better but you might have a heart attack. I went to Morrigan and asked her if I can become a squad leader, and she will allow me to become one.”

“Someone help the poor bastards who get stuck with you.” Desmond stated sarcastically. “Not as fun as you might think, trust me.”

“Yeah...trust me I’m nervous but I learn better with experience. The way things are going and the coming assault from EXALT, me becoming a squad leader might be a good thing.”

“Just don’t fuck up.” Desmond warned her. “Or I will kick your ass faster than Morrigan can say, ‘What the hell?’”

Eva laughed. “I would like to point out you got lucky the first time we fought. I have gotten a lot stronger since then, plus I would rather face you then deal with an angry Morrigan.”

“Don’t forget I have also seen all your moves...repeatedly in fact. I have skills that I don’t flaunt around unlike some people.” Desmond stated, insinuating Eva. “Besides, not like I can do much fighting in this state.” Desmond put a hand to his side.

There was a knock on the door.

Desmond sighed, “Can you get that Eva?”

Eva walks up to the door and opens it. Eva sees a group two people at the door. “What the hay Desmond do you know these people?”

Saka pushed Minato into the room and walked in behind him closing the door and kept shoving him until he was next to the bed, the two of them completely ignoring Eva. “He is here to apologize to you.” Saka told Desmond.

Minato chuckled. “Who knew I beat you so bad that I put you in a hospital bed.”

Desmond crossed his arms. “If memory serves, I kicked your ass and this is for a whole other matter entirely.”

The two men stared each other down, though Minato looked less frightening than he would have if not for the black eye.

Eva got in between the two men. “Okay, first…” Eva pointed her finger at Desmond. ”You should not be fighting anyone you're still sick, and you need to rest.” Eva turned around and looked Minato in his eye. “And second who the hell are you to challenge someone who is not one hundred percent, who is still in the hospital?”

Minato looked at Eva up and down and back at Desmond. “Who is the blue haired big mouth?”

Desmond shook his head. “This is Eva. Eva meet Minato, a rather uncooperative subordinate of my forces from Japan.”

“You have no…” Minato was cut off.

Desmond waved his hand. “Yeah, yeah, I heard you the first time you said it blondie.”

Minato looked ready to attack Desmond but Saka got in front of him. “I am Saka, Desmond’s childhood friend and leader of one of the three clans.”

“Name’s Eva Aegerter, Desmond’s combat partner. So a clan leader huh? I know another tribe leader on this base...I think you two would get along. Now can you tell me what’s the deal with your friend here before I force him out of this room.”

Minato got in her face. “I would like to see you try.” Saka grabbed his arm and tried to pull him back but he wouldn’t budge.

“Minato here thinks that I am not the true leader of the clans. Only reason he came is because Saka asked him to.” Desmond informed Eva.

“Wait Desmond you're one of their leaders? Wow Lusset really gave you plenty of breathing room huh, well that’s good to hear. So you're in charge of this jackass?”

Minato stiffened. “You bitch!” Minato pulled back a fist and tried to swing it at Eva.

Desmond lept up in a split second, locking arms with Minato and kicking out his leg, shoving him down to the ground. “Yes, I am in charge of this jackass.”


Saka gasped. “Desmond!?”

He looked at her. “He doesn’t learn.”

Minato responded with a groan and a slight cough as the wind was knocked from his lungs.

“You realize that I could have blocked that punch right, and I told you to get some rest.”

“I am his Commander. It is my responsibility to discipline him.” Desmond told her. “Besides, I won’t fall over dead for something as small as that. It was a simple move.”


Saka thought for a moment. “Wait a minute...isn’t that the same move your master used on you when you didn’t listen?”

Desmond nodded. “Really has come full circle, hasn’t it?”

Eva looks at Saka.”So this fool is your underling huh, looks like he need more discipline. Then again I hate people that don’t act proper in front of others.”

Desmond raised an eyebrow at Eva. “Hypocrite.”

Saka waved her hands. “Oh no, Minato really is a good person, he just gets a little hotheaded sometimes.”

“No I...don’t…” Minato let out.

Saka kicked Minato and he fell back over in pain. Saka gave Eva an innocent smile.

“You know it’s been awhile since I fought someone, can I fight him?”

“Who, Minato?” Saka asked, kicking him down again as he tried to stand up.

“Yes him, the only person that actually fought me was that guy.” Eva pointed at Desmond “Besides I need a good fight, I haven’t fought a human in sometime.”

“Uh...sure?” Minato finally got off the ground and back on his feet. “No way…” He protested.

Saka kneed Minato in the gut and he was back on the floor again. “Meet us in the training room in an hour.”

“Great see you there, and make sure he’s one hundred percent. I don’t want to fight a weak opponent”.

Saka smiled. “Don’t worry...he will be fine.” Saka ran to the door and yelled for some ice and a ginger ale.

 

[MarineAvenger]

Meeting Your Friend's Family Part 2

Eva was sitting in the holo-training room waiting patiently for her opponent to arrive. “Ugh, where are they? I’m getting bored.”

Saka dragged Minato off the elevator and walked over to where Eva was and shoved him forward. “He is all yours. Sorry Desmond couldn’t join us but some black haired lady in a white coat came by and forbade him from going. Sorry.”

“Ah, she came. I know what happen to him, and it’s fine.” Eva looked at Minato “So are we going to do this or not ? Or do I need to motivate you?”

“Fuck you.” Minato took his spot opposite of Eva and crossed his arms. “Are we going to do this or what?”

“Please feel free to charge me, or are you scared that a girl will beat the crap out of your.You worthless scumbag.”

“Your taunts don’t scare me.” Minato took a hand to hand stance. “And I believe the expression goes, ‘Ladies first’?”

Eva sighed, "Very well." Best I don’t use any restriction, not yet any way. So let me just toy with him. Eva with her hands in her pocket ran towards Minato. "Please feel free to stop me.”

Minato rolled his eyes. Just as Eva got to him though, he quickly spun himself to the left, Eva running past him like a bull. “I don’t like games when training Miss Aegerter.”

“Oh, you want me to be serious? I was planning to toy with you but if you want me to be serious, okay.” Eva clenched her fist and punched Minato in the face. “Hey, are you still conscious?”

Minato kicked himself up and rubbed his jaw. “That it?” Minato rushed forward with amazing speed and slammed his knee into her gut before he grabbed the back of her shirt and threw her to the ground. “Any harder and you would have lost your lunch.”

Eva spit on the ground “Really, was that it? I didn't even feel that…” Eva sighed. I was hoping for some fun but let me end this. Release restriction to level 9. Eva gains some musical mass and charged Minato at incredible speed. When she was right in front of Minato she punched him in the gut, the shear force caused Minato to nearly vomit. Eva then grabbed him by his shirt and punched him in the head multiple times and then threw him to the other side of the room. “How do you like it?”

Minato brushed his mouth. “We will see who is laughing.” Minato ran at Eva at full speed. When Eva went to punch him, Minato quickly ducked under it and jabbed her side with an open palm, spinning around behind her and doing so again to the back of her neck and finishing with a sweep of her legs. With the pressure points he hit, Eva’s body would be limp as if it were asleep. “Sorry, but I win.”

“Oh wow, looks like you won.” Eva said unimpressed. “You really showed me.”

Minato just shook his head and walked off, waving a hand behind him. “You will be fine in a minute.” He climbed into the elevator and left Eva and Saka alone.

“You going to be okay?” She asked the blue haired soldier.

“Oh yeah, just give me a sec.” Release restriction level 8. Eva’s body went back to normal and she waved her body, stretching her arms as well. “Well I hope he’s feeling proud of himself.”

“If I am going to be honest, you were a little bit of an ass as well. Minato isn’t a bad guy he just has a...rough exterior to new people. He gets better over time though.”

“Yeah but I have to let people see what you're made of. If I wanted to, I could have easily crushed his skull in, broken five of his ribs and broke his both of his legs… no, actually his entire body, but I didn't listen.” Eva walked over to Saka “If I’m going to be honest, you people have no idea what you're facing. He had trouble facing me ,and I was just playing with him. I was using four percent of my strength and he was nearly broken. The alien won’t be as nice as I am. Look, people need to see what you people can do, So him ‘beating’ me.” Eva said using air quotes. “Will get people to see you guys in another light. Do you know what I mean?”

Saka crossed her arms. “You have no idea what we are capable of!” Saka snapped. “Who are you to judge people based on your own strength. Last I recalled, you were a soldier and not a god. What gives you the right to look down on us just because of one fist fight?”

Eva slapped her hand into her face.”Look Saka, I've seen these aliens do things to people that would drive a normal person insane! If hand to hand combat is all you people go you will get slaughtered. Hell there is an alien that if it bites you, you will turn into one of them. I’m saying your hand to hand combat stuff is useless against these things. You know what you want to know what you up against if you face a melee alien, look can your people use guns?”

Saka looked at her as if she was crazy. “Who do you think taught Desmond everything he knows. Of course we use guns, we use all sorts of weaponry. Close quarters, light heavy, explosive, you name it, we train it.”

“Well...I guess I have to thank you for mentoring Desmond, but if there is any advice I will give you it’s this. When you see an alien with no weapons on the battlefield run from it. Don’t try to fight it with hand to hand combat because you will lose. There is no if ands or buts about it, you will lose. But I do hope you people can be useful in XCOM and I hope your people will make it after this war. And sorry if I come a bit rude to you.”

Saka shook her head. “Well there is one giant thing you are missing her Eva and it is that you have never seen us fight truly. Minato didn’t even give his all. In fact, that isn’t nearly the best I have seen him be. Our teachings date back to the very early days of Fuedal Japan, and though we have had to modernize them as time went on, the fact we are even still here should be a testament to our skill.” Saka turned and sighed. “I need to go see to Minato before he gets himself into trouble. Thank you for the warning but it isn’t needed.” Saka ran off without another word to Eva.

 

[MarineAvenger]

Open Minded (Adrammalech and MarineAvenger) Part 1

X-COM Headquarters - Desmond’s Lab
September 24th, 2018
1600 Hours

Emily slowly made her way to Desmond’s psionic training ground for another session, torn between wanting to advance her powers and avoid another lecture. She knew her alien dreamscape would come up quickly and he wouldn’t be happy about it, but she’d have to point it out eventually anyway. With a long sigh, she straightened her back and tried to look as professional as possible before rapping her fist on the door.

The door opened and Desmond quickly pulled Emily in before sticking his head out and looking both ways down the hall. Satisfied, he closed the door and sighed. “I thought Morrigan found me again...she can sniff me out like a bloodhound…”

“Are you in trouble with her?” Emily asked, surprised by the greeting.

“No, but she is less than fond of me sneaking out of the Med Bay after my accident. It is like I am on probation...can’t wait till they release me officially.” Desmond slumped down in on a stool.

“Oh, I heard,” Emily said sadly, taking the nearest available seat. “How are you doing? Everything better?”

“Depends on who you ask.” Desmond told her jokingly. “I feel fine, but the unpredictability of the disease means I could drop anytime. The Commander has been breathing down my neck to keep myself healthy...and my fiance.”

“You’re engaged to someone here?” Emily smiled, “I didn’t know that. Congratulations on that.”

Desmond nodded. “Thank you. To be honest I wasn’t expecting you to show up anytime soon.”

“Well, I don’t want to bother you if you’re still recovering,” she said. “You can call it a social call if you’re not up for my questions and such.”

Desmond shook his head. “It can be both. To be honest I would welcome the distraction.” Desmond sighed and looked at Emily. “I talked to Luxuria.”

“You...you did? What about?”

“I tested her. She how she would react to the situation I put her in. Must say that she somewhat surprised me. Despite multiple warning about her deception I did not sense any lies in what we talk about. If anyone can tell when you are lying or not, it is me.”

“I see...I assume you wanted to see if she was going to control me somehow?” Emily asked.

Desmond shook his head. “Not really. Though I did make it clear that I would have no problem killing her should I deem her a threat to you or anyone else. Though the conversation shifted to more...pleasant conversation.”

“Well, that’s good. I think she’s tough enough a death threat won’t make her clam up, so I wouldn’t worry about the consequences. Did she tell you anything enlightening?”

“Are you asking if I asked her about her powers?” Desmond shook his head. “I am not interested in gaining any knowledge she has. Though I did bring up the point when she offered that I don’t need her. I have already developed things she couldn’t and she agreed, saying that was the reasons Ethereals have hopes for us.”

Desmond leaned back. “We mainly talked about...well, family. She asked about mine, I asked about hers. My main purpose for being there was to learn more about these Ethereals. No offense but you wouldn’t be able to do it and understand them without a bias due to your relationship with her, so I acted as a third party.”

“Well, I appreciate that,” Emily said calmly, “but I’ve learned a lot too. Their motives most importantly, but some other interesting tidbits. Know thy enemy, right,” she smiled.

Desmond smiled briefly and nodded. “Something like that.” He stood up and snapped his fingers, a small dummy appearing. “You can train if you want, to be honest, I don’t have the energy or motivation to teach you anything new.”

“I guess that’s fine,” she slapped her knees and stood up, “you need to rest and whatnot. Although, my abilities aren’t really the training dummy kind, at least not yet. Unless this training dummy can cower in fear…”

“Oh I am sure he is shaking in his boots right now at the mighty Emily Fischer.” Desmond told her.

“Why not almighty, it sounds so much more regal,” Emily joked, stepping forward.

With a little hesitation, she summoned her rift to swirl the air around her in the center of the room, lifting the dummy up with ease and then breaking it apart to toss it against the wall. The image flickered and disappeared, and Emily relaxed again.

“There is one thing I thought I should mention,” she sighed.

“Why do I have the feeling I am not going to like what I am going to hear from you?” Desmond asked tiredly.

“Well, that’s a negative way to think,” she noted, trying to be peppy, “but...you’re probably right. I got something that I maybe shouldn’t have from our floaty friend.”

Desmond sighed. “What was it?”

Emily stepped in front of Desmond, prepping herself. “I can show you, if you want. I believe you’re familiar with the process.”

Desmond rubbed his eyes. “You didn’t…”

“I did,” she nodded. “And it worked, for the most part.”

“What do you mean for the ‘most part’?” Desmond asked.

“There may be a small amount of alien stuff in here,” she replied, poking her head, “much like the rest of my brain, now…but it’s really just decoration when it comes down to it.”

“Train with an alien and these things are bound to happen.” Desmond was silent for a moment before he finally shook his head. “I am not mad, just disappointed. I had hopes that you would do this properly without handing yourself more over to her. I am only concerned because I don’t want to see a friend accidently get corrupted and not know it. Power always comes with a cost Emily. Whether it has to be paid immediately or somewhere down the line.” He sat forward, “You are very bright Emily. You don’t need shortcuts to be great.”

“Thank you, I’m sure I can learn, but patience isn’t really my strong suit,” she said sadly, “I did try to wait, but I’m pretty impetuous. But now I’m really seeing the price, every time I close my eyes, even. So I’ll be better about this in the future, really.” Emily looked around a bit and rubbed her arm. “If you wanted, I could show you, and you could see if anything’s wrong outside the obvious. You’re the expert when it comes to these things.”

“I am nowhere near an expert but I can at least take a look inside and see if I can fix what has been done.” Desmond told her. “Though no promises I can do anything.”

“Alright,” she said, closing her eyes. “I just have to be ‘open-minded,’ right?”

“Ha ha.” He stated sarcastically before delving into Emily’s mind.

 

[Adrammalech]

Emily pulled Desmond into her dreamscape, the picture of the Ethereal homeworld manifesting in her mind and around the obsidian platform that she had appropriated with her memories. Her furniture laid out in odd spaces between warm, orange lights from candles and campfires, anything too personal being hid inside something there. The space would almost seem inviting to Desmond if it wasn’t for the two alien moons hovering overhead, and the odd feeling of cool and heavy air all around them. Emily stepped into the center and turned towards him, looking a little more shy than she did in reality.

“Welcome,” she said softly.

Desmond looked around, he didn’t show it but he was really surprised at the space. “This is all Luxuria’s doing?”

“Yeah, this is their world, above and below,” she said, sitting beside the desk that held the pictures of her friends. “The only things that are mine are up here.”

“So this is what you were telling me was wrong? You can’t make the dreamscape of your own image?” He looked at the furniture. “Or at least wholly.”

“I don’t think I can change it, just add some things to it,” she said. “Luxuria said I should like it this way, since it’s a peaceful planet.” Emily glanced down and then back up. “It is pretty quiet.”

“It is definitely something but the dreamscape is supposed to reflect the ‘users’ mind.” Desmond looked around. “It may be pretty but it is not your exclusively.” Desmond thought for a moment. “Would you like it to be yours?”

“I’ve tried as hard as one can make a mental effort, I thought about it, I meditated, I tried to...will it into being, awake and asleep. It’s just here, I can’t seem to change it,” she sighed, defeated. “To be honest, I’ve been living with it for a while, and I strangely feel comfortable here. As long as there’s not a security problem with it, I think I can survive.”

Desmond put a hand on his chin. “Well...there is one way it could become yours again but I would need to talk to a friend and do some further research. If we figure it out though...you could potentially have your mind back. It is up to you of course and there is no guarantee.”

“Well, I don’t want you to stress out too much,” she sighed, then looked back with a smile. “But I certainly wouldn’t complain if you found a solution.”

Desmond grinned. “Do you have any idea how much time I have on my hands? This is a gift more than a burden.” Desmond cleared his throat. “Though like I said, no guarantee.”

“Thanks, Desmond. I appreciate that.”

He waved his hand. “Don’t worry.” He looked up at the sky. “If you want, I could switch up the scenery. It wouldn’t be hard to switch the mind we are in while like this. Makes it a little less unsettling and I am sure you probably have more to ask.”

“Well, I can make a sunrise and a sunset,” she said with a hint of excitement. “So I can switch things up a little that way. It’s completely different here, since the sun is a red dwarf.”

“We could go to my mind if you wish. You would be surprised by how expansive it can be now.”

“Sure, if you’d like,” she smiled warmly. “I really only saw the entrance last time.”

Desmond closed his eyes and with a bit of work, managed to keep the connection between the two psions and switched into his mind, the bamboo forest and red gate replacing the Ethereal homeworld. He took a deep breath, a little worn by the energy he had to exert. “Well...here we are.”

“Nice to see a familiar place,” she chuckled. “To be reminded Earth is beautiful too.”

Desmond nodded. “Funnily enough, I only came to a place like this once. Was the only time I was up in the mountains but more near the base. Was still cold but there was a hell of a lot less snow.” He nudged his head to the gate. “Would you like to see what is up there?”

“You’ll learn that my answer to that is always yes,” Emily grinned, motioning for him to lead.

Desmond nodded and led her through the red gate and up a stony path that wound up a hill. They passed under several other gates, the same shape and color but a little smaller than the one at the entrance as the made the trek upwards. As they neared the top, the bamboo started to thin and grass took it’s place, multiple bright colored flowers looking as if tended to by an expert hand. When the pair finally reached the top, a large building stood on the center of a large, open courtyard. There was a pool with water lilies to the left side of the courtyard and a shrine to the right. Past the building, the path continued up the hill. “This is as far as I can take you for now. THat mind switch really drained me so I don’t know how much more I can construct.”

“This is really quite beautiful, Desmond,” she said slowly. “Did you make all of this from nothing, or is it a memory of somewhere?”

“Both. This is loosely based off a place I visited to before. That building there is a recreation of one of the buildings I trained in, though it is only pretty pictures and walls in there, nothing too much to see.” Desmond looked around. “I find myself retreating here often. Sometimes I find it so peaceful that I almost don’t want to return to reality but that would just be stupid. I have better things to look forward to in the real world. As the name implies...it is just a dream.”

“I can see that, there are times I feel that way with mine, even with its flaws. But I have some experience in balancing what’s real and what’s just a dream.”

“You don’t get out much do you? Not saying anything but it is hard to believe I had only met you a short time ago in a place so small as the base.”

“Certainly not out-out, I haven’t been on a vacation in years,” she chuckled. “But I do spend a bit of time in my room, thinking about things. Probably more than the average person.”

“I know the feeling. I spent more time than I care to remember being isolated. You have your quirks but you are definitely a person who would benefit from being more out with yourself. I can only keep you entertained for so long.” Desmond grinned and chuckled. “Not exactly Grade-A best friend material but I try.”

“I have my hobbies too, my squad and I play a lot of pool...a lot of pool. Although, if you have something more interesting to do, I’d be happy to come see.”

He shook his head. “Not much I am afraid. Time is either devoted to training, research, family or reading. Slight variations here and there but nothing too major. I tend to see others as well...they usually end up fun.” Desmond put his hands in his pockets and took in a deep breath. “Almost makes you forget that there is a war going on.” He shook his head and looked to the ground. “Almost.”

“Yeah, I can definitely relate with that. I think we’re all getting a little tired at this point...but angrier all the same.”

Desmond nodded in agreement but put a hand to his head. “Hate to take you away but it is time to go. My connection is weakening. Time for last looks.”

Emily glanced around and gave a small smile, pulling away from Desmond’s mind and re-emerging back in the real world. She blinked rapidly and gave a tired sigh.

Desmond stumbled slightly as he opened his eyes but he had the table to brace himself against.

“You okay?” she asked, concerned.

He nodded. “I will be fine, just a little light headed is all.” Desmond took a seat and rubbed his forehead. “I won’t keep you any longer. If you have nothing left to ask I think today was a good breather.”

“Mmhmm,” she nodded, “thanks again for your time, Desmond. I hope you feel better soon.”

“So do I.” He replied light heartedly. “See you around.”

Emily gave a brief bow and then scampered away, relieved that everything went better than expected. She scratched her chin as she contemplated what to do next, between seeing her friends and checking in on her increasing amount of obligations.

 

[Adrammalech]

// SPECIAL WATER //
Emily Fischer
XCOM Headquarters – Medical Wing
Siberia, Russian Federation
September 26, 2018 - 9:12 AM

Emily moved through the medical wing, returning to the secluded area where the recovered captives sat. Each room’s placard still laid plain, each door locked to everyone except the doctors, other than Sybille’s door which was open as her room was being cleaned. At the end was the same room she saw her in last time, a largely white and safe-looking space, with a sign on the front reading “testing in progress – do not disturb.”

“Can I help you?” a nearby doctor asked her cautiously.

“I’m Emily, I wanted to see how Sybille is doing.”

“Oh, Emily! It’s a pleasure to meet you,” she bowed respectfully, looking at her charts. “She’s miles ahead of the others, but progress is still slow. We made the opioid replacement the Ethereal gave you, along with some anti-addictive properties. The nurse is testing the first dose with her now.”

“Right now? How long has she been under?”

“Since eight. Unlike the ‘special water’ she was treated with for conditioning, this chemical is far less quick when it comes to both acting and becoming inert. She’s currently relaxed, but we’re still monitoring for new side effects as they arise. We have a nurse in there observing her.”

“Is she familiar with what to do and what not to do?”

“He,” the doctor corrected, “and yes, he’s been briefed by both Benjamin and Jake on the necessary attitude. He’s got the book smarts and the street smarts,” she said with a confident smirk.

“Good, good…thank you, doctor. I’m glad things are going well.”

“The side effects seem to be hitting a plateau, and a new stimuli wouldn’t hurt,” she mumbled to herself, staring at her clipboard. “Would you like to talk to her for a few minutes?”

“If it’s not too much trouble. I don’t want to interfere with anything.”

“It’ll be fine, just keep things easy-going if possible. She needs constant encouragement and exposure.”

Emily nodded and opened the door, slowly stepping inside. To Emily’s surprise, as she walked into the room, Sybille’s face lit up with recognition and hope. However, she could see the signs that kept her from putting her mind at ease. The tiny tremble in her fingertips and the submissive, pleading look in her eye told her it wasn’t for someone that could help her though. It was a drug-induced solace Emily found painfully familiar, the only hope in the recovering girl’s mind lying in who was bringing her next dose. The nurse beside her held an encouraging hand to her back, smiling at Sybille’s calm disposition.

“Good morning, Sybille,” Emily smiled, sitting beside her.

“Hello Amelia…it is good to see you.”

“Please, call me Emily. How are you doing?”

“I finally have my water, and I feel like myself again…” she said, her voice placid and serene. “Did you do this for me?”

“I helped things along. I’m glad it’s working for you.”

“Yes, happy now…happy with doctors,” she sighed.

“Good,” Emily smiled widely. “Would you like to play a game, or do something fun? Do you remember what you liked to do?”

“What? No, no…no time for any of that. I have to get back to the glass so I can be useful again. There should be new masters there, right?”

“You’re not a test subject any more, Sybille,” Emily repeated her statement from last time, keeping her voice calm, “you don’t need to go anywhere or do anything you don’t want to.”

“I want to! I can’t be special unless they do the tests, I have to do the tests, or…”

“You’re special just the way you are, Sybille.”

“No!” Sybille shrank back, her hands both covering her mouth as though she had been insulted. “No one is special like her! No one!”

“I think you are. Why don’t you want to think that you are?”

“Because the masters…t-their torment was because of her perfection! Because I was not enough!”

“That’s not true,” Emily said, her face stern and hoping to convince herself as much as Sybille.

“It is! It is, it is, it is! I never would’ve been tortured if I was perfect, if I was a real Amelia all along, I would be with my masters now and we would both be happy! Instead we are here!” She pointed her gaunt hands around the white room angrily.

“You wouldn’t be happy, Sybille. They kept you in a cage…”

“I liked my box! It was safe! Why is your box any better?”

“Because we want to help you, not control you. We might even be able to-”

Sybille interrupted with a shrill shout. “Quiet! No more talking!” She covered her ears for a few seconds and a long shiver went through her in waves. As she looked back up, the placid stare on her face re-emerged, and she gave a grin. “Talking time is over, it’s breeding time…”

“What,” Emily said flatly.

In the blink of an eye, the waifish woman dove over the table and tackled Emily to the ground, poorly trying to pin her arms down.

“Amelia wants to play,” Sybille said, her tone robotic. “Breed with me or find someone who can!”

The nurse scrambled over and carefully put his hands on her arm, and she tossed it aside and looked at him intensely through rapidly glazing eyes.

“Male, much more useful…”

The addicted girl launched herself forward again, pouncing on the nurse like a panther and trying to pin him down. The nurse struggled as she ripped at his shirt, the girl showing no further recognition as she acted. Emily came from behind her and hooked her arms around Sybille’s, pulling her back as she struggled and kicked forwards.

“Let me go!” Sybille demanded. “It’s breeding time, I need him to please the masters! I need to!”

“Sybille, look at me! Calm down!”

Emily asserted control over the girl as she kicked and screamed, her arms completely immobile in the former’s hold. The nurse scrambled to his feet and hit a button, and within moments two more doctors rushed in. Sybille looked at them all with anger and desperation, beginning to drool as she tried to rip out of Emily’s grip. The doctors pulled her away and restrained her, leaving the horrified Emily with the doctor from before.

“What the hell happened?” the doctor demanded.

“I don’t know, we were just talking and then something went off,” she replied, holding her shaking hands together.

“There are dozens of different chemicals in the drug, many of them couldn’t be removed without ruining the compound…the additives were difficult to identify, but they usually played towards the Ethereal’s ‘predispositions,’ not a biological necessity.”

“God…” As the shock wore off, determination and outrage emerged on Emily’s face. “I think I need to talk to our malevolent pharmacologist…”

“We’ll take care of Sybille…do what you need to do.”

Emily stormed out of the medical ward and back to the common areas, the echoes of Sybille’s shouts still fresh in her mind.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Dahlexpert & ZombieSplitter53
"Eva's Busy Day: Part One"

X-COM Headquarters
Holo-Training Room
September 26th, 1230 Hours

Eva got on the Elevator, heading to the training room. “Man, yesterday was nuts. I hope Saka and her people do well here and not end up like our last security detail. But they’re on the roster, so hopefully they won’t get terrified at the sight of the aliens. Well, that’s not my problem anyway. I have other things to worry about.” I heard Jean was down here. I think, before the base get’s assaulted, I better tell him the truth about me and EXALT among other things.

As Eva stepped out of the elevator, she stepped into a holographic representation of a familiar setting. After a moment, she realized she was back in Gula’s base. From the distance, in the direction of the base’s main command center, she could hear someone fighting, and the sounds of things slamming into the walls.

“What the hell, why am I in the base? Wait.” Eva saw one of the X-COM soldiers fighting Gula. “What the hell is going on?”

Ayame screamed loudly as she dodged between a pair of chairs, cleaving a third in half with her yanmaodao. She was almost there, she could practically taste victory this time. She jumped to the left at the last minute, sure she had him this time. She ducked to the left of her target, lifted her sword before he could turn, and sliced down, right into a fellow soldier that jumped in front of Gula, the computer simulating the Ethereals mind control. Before Ayame could compensate, Gula lifted his hand, the computer registered a telekinetic lock on Ayame, and the simulation ended.

Ayame dropped to her knees, slamming her fists into the ground and cursing in an odd mix of English, Mandarin, and Japanese. She looked up, and pointed her sword at Jean, who was standing in the corner. “Y-you… you cheated! H-he never… did that before!”

Jean sighed. “The computer learns and adapts. I’m sorry, Ayame, but you simply forgot about the mind controlled soldiers.”

Ayame panted heavily, shaking her head. “Again!”

“This is the fourth time,” Jean answered. “You need to relax.”

“AGAIN!” Ayame screamed, but Jean refused to comply. Ayame screamed in rage again, slamming her fist down once more and wincing at the pain.

“You know, if you did this four times, that’s a sign that you should get some help for this.” Both Jean and Ayame turned around and saw Eva. “Besides, Gula would never face you one on one. He was too much of a coward. Besides he would never have been alone he would have at least two Muton Elites along side him.”

Jean smiled at Eva, grateful to have someone try to reason with the angered Asian woman. Ayame stood up and slowly walked over to Eva, narrowing her eyes as she approached. Only a few feet from her, Ayame sneared. “You’re Eva, right? You’re the mother of the woman who tried to kill me, and did kill all my allies in Chicago.” Ayame’s fist tightened around the hilt of her sword. “And… you held a gun to my best friend’s head.” Jean raised an eyebrow, but remained quiet, realizing that he might be in for something big, and not wanting to be caught in the middle of something he couldn’t handle.

Eva looked at Jean. “Darling, would you mind waiting outside for me? I will explain a lot of things to you. Then, if you still want to date me, we can go get a drink together, alright?” Eva asked, smiling at him.

Jean nodded nervously. “Um, yeah, I… I’ll head over to the bar. I’ll meet you there… when you two are done.” He resisted the urge to say ‘I hope’, and ran over to the elevator. Once he was gone, Ayame just stared at Eva, expected the blue-haired woman to attack her at any moment.

Eva looked back at Ayame. “Now there’s you. Yes, I am the mother of Vee and Eve. Now, I had no idea that my kid did that to you, and I apologize to you for that. But I will not apologize for holding a gun to Atka’s head. She had my friend pinned down and held a gun to his head, and no one threatens my friends around me.”

Ayame glared at Eva for another tense couple of seconds. Finally, just as she seemed ready to pounce, she slowly calmed her breathing, and nodded. “I… understand. Atka wouldn’t want me to hold grudges, and Vee explained the situation to me.” Ayame’s shoulders slumped. “We actually fought when we had our first real discussion, but now we’re friends. I’m not… going to go off on her mother, and I might not like you threatening Atka, I understand now why you did.”

“Great to hear. Now, do you mind telling me why you were facing Gula all by yourself?”

Ayame sighed. “Because… because I’m tired of doing nothing in this war. Being nothing.” Ayame slumped down, sitting on the floor and twirling her sword on its tip. “You wouldn’t understand. You’re this… super soldier. You have all this power with in you. I’m nothing.” She looked up at Eva and gave her a sad smile. “Do you mind if I tell you something about that friend of yours? About Desmond?”

“That he’s an EXALT spy? I know, and so am I really.. Well, let me say again that me and him used to work for EXALT. Not any more of course, but after this war is over he might go back to Ellen and the rest but me? I don’t know what I’m gonna do after this.”

Ayame raised her hand. “Not that, Eva. I already know all that stuff. Desmond’s thing is old news, and Vee told me about you. I was the one that convinced Vee to tell the Commander now rather then later. What I wanted to talk about was something… more personal.”

“Well, nice to know Vee didn't do it on her own accord. Alright, so what is this thing you want to tell me?”

Ayame let out a long sigh. “I… something about him upsets me. And it isn’t something he did, so I know it isn’t fair, but I can’t help it.” She looked down at her hands, noting the rough parts and calluses. “I tried so hard to prove I’m not the failure everyone said I’d end up being. Gave up my home, good riddance. Tried joining the army, worked for evil men to get some power and training, worked for evil men pretending to be good men to travel across North America and Asia. Sixteen years I’ve been training. Sixteen years of pushing my body and soul to the limit. Desmond? Three years. Three years of training, and he makes me invisible when I stand next to him.”

Ayame slowly stood up, and rubbed her eyes. “When he was going on that rescue mission, I had to prove myself. Prove myself to someone twelve years younger then me physically, a quarter of my age in actuality, and with far less experience. But everything comes so easy for him, and he doesn’t even realize it! I’m not saying he didn’t go through hardships, but his entire body was made to be perfect. And yours. And then there’s everyone with their psionics! And here I am. I’ve pumped myself full of gene mods, trying to keep up, but still I’m nothing more than another foot soldier! Then I go out to fight an Ethereal, to prove I can be something, and we end bringing the Ethereal home as an ally?” She scoffed. “I’m not saying it is your or Desmond’s fault. But with all the enhancements you have, the perfect bodies, you… I’m… just so… pointless…”

Eva walked up to Ayame and got right in front of her face. Eva puts her hand on Ayame’s head and drove her knee into Ayame’s stomach several times, then punched her to the ground. “Well if you're so useless, might as well kill you. Can’t have no pointless soldier on this base.” Eva grabbed Ayame shirt and pants to lift her up and throw her away from her sword. Eva grabs the sword and throws it on the other side of the training room. “You won’t be needing that for your execution.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Eva's Busy Day: Part Two"

Ayame jumped to her feet. “Kuso… meinu!” She lept forward, jabbing her hands forward at an impressive speed. “You think I’ll let you judge me like this?!” She snarled as she kicked her left leg like a piston, Eva barely dodging. “I’ve trained all my life, and then people like you come along and make me feel useless! And you think I’ll just stand for it!” She reached forward, and slammed her head into Eva’s.

“Yes, you will, you worthless nobody!” Eva grabbed Ayame’s shirt and slammed her head into hers hers. When Ayame fell back slightly, Eva grabs her arm and brought her towards her, gave her an uppercut caused Ayame to fall on her back. “Come now that can’t be all you got is it? Hum some training you did you worthless woman.”

“Jiào nǐ shēng háizi méi pìgu yǎn!” Ayame lept forward, pouncing like a cat and tackling Eva to the floor. Somehow remembering her training through her rage, she sent a solid jab straight the the center of Eva’s chest, causing the woman’s heart to skip a beat and disrupting her nervous system. With her opponent incapacitated, Ayame sent several punches into Eva’s stomach. “You think you’re better than me? You’re nothing! You’re a pretender! You just strut around, throwing your weight down, but the people who were most important to you never got a second glance. You just remind them how useless they are everyday! But I’m not useless! I’m better then you ever were!”

Eva grabbed Ayame’s first fist, then her second fist. Eva lefted her legs so they go under Ayame’s armpits and thrust them forward to get Ayame off of her. Eva got a big smile on her face. “Okay, I’m a pretender huh? Let’s start round two.” Release restriction to level nine. Eva’s body gained some slight muscle mass. “Come on, let’s try that again.”

Ayame breathed heavily. She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts. Rushing forward again, she used her enhanced muscle density to leap over Eva. “I got this stuff, I might as well use it.” With a kick off the ground, she slammed into Eva shoulder first, knocking the enhanced super soldier a few feet forward but sending a wave of pain into Ayame’s arm. “Shit, like hitting a wall…”

“Well, since were using augmentations, I might as well use mine too,” Eva said with a smile. “You do know that one of my augs is Iron skin. So yeah, you most likely hurt yourself more than you did me. Now where we? Oh, I think I was going to do this.” Eva rush's Ayame with impressive speed and delivered multiple jabs to Ayame’s face. She then grabbed Ayame and kneed her in the stomach. Once Ayame was on the ground, Eva lifted her leg and drove her foot into Ayame’s back.

Screeching in pain, Ayame quickly kicked back, connecting her Eva’s jaw. She rolled to the side, limping a bit. Glancing around the room, she suddenly kicked forward, propelling herself to the side. She turned back to Eva, lifting her sword. Ayame bit down on her lip, hard enough to draw blood, as she looked between Eva and the weapon. Letting her Aerobic Respiration Boost allow her to catch her breath, she suddenly through the sword to the side again. “I… don’t need… a weapon… to fight you…” She ran forward again. As Eva threw a punch, Ayame suddenly fall backwards and wrapped her legs around Eva’s. Twisting them into a leg look, Ayame lifted her body up, sending waves of pain into Eva’s leg’s and back. “Give up! Give up, or I’ll break them!”

Eva smiles and said in a calm voice. “Alright, I give up. You win.”

Ayame’s eyes widened. “You… y-you do?”

“Yes I give up, now will you please get off of me. True ,I could break this with ease, but she’s at her limit and I don’t want her to push her too much, who knows what would happen if I go up one more restriction.

Ayame let Eva go. She slowly stood up, then immediately fell down again, the amount of pressure she put into her legs making them feel like jelly. She stared at the ground, and Eva could see a few drops of moisture drop to the ground that weren’t sweat. “D… damn it…”

Eva walked to Ayame and knelt down.”You’re not bad. You're pretty good, actually. I mean, for me to use my augmentations and a little something extra that pretty great.”

Ayame chuckled a bit but didn’t look up. “Y-your… that’s kind of you to say. But you could have kept fighting. I’m not blind. Just another sign that I’m… powerless…”

Eva shook her head. “Okay, you wanna know something about me? See, I have these things called restrictions. They’re there to hide my full power. I have nine in total, you made me unlock one of them. That alone says you're not powerless. I mean, for me to tap into my actual power, that says you actually pushed me. I normally save those for the aliens.”

Ayame wiped her eyes. She nodded slowly. “Thank you. I… I’m sorry. I’m a mess. I’m normally more in control of myself, I just have a temper. I… I’ll be okay. Just past voices… beating me down sometimes.”

“Don’t worry about it, but you wanna know something about me, Ayame? See, I too pushed myself. I joined my country's military, and then the American military. Both of those were the toughest training I ever did in my life, then I became a super soldier and that made me train even harder. Because I’m a super soldier, I think people have a certain expectation of me. So I had to train even harder, harder then anyone else, because I am what I am. I have to work for hours and hours, training that would normally destroy the body or drive someone crazy. But you know what, I love it. I love to face something that makes me go all out. You...you also did a lot of training so don’t doubt yourself. Like I said you made me tap into my power and that’s very impressive.”

Ayame took a deep breath. She slowly climbed to her feet and dusted herself off. “Then I’ll just have to keep pushing myself more. I’ll try not to be so wrapped up in self-doubt as to let myself fall behind. I might not be able to reach your or Desmond’s level, but I’ll make a name for myself somehow, and I’ll protect my friends while doing so.”

“Great to hear, though, yeah, please control that anger of yours. While I will admit holding in your anger is not a good thing, try to channel that anger into something else.”

Ayame laughed. “I’ll keep that in mind. Though you do the same. I’ve heard some stories about you going off on people. And just so you know…” She rubbed her stomach and winced. “That really hurt.”

“Yeah, sorry about that, I’m pretty sure your whole body is hurting. But I’m working on my old ways and trying to become better. But that’s for another day. Do you need any help or are you okay?”

Ayame tilted her head from side to side, her neck letting out a few loud cracks. “I’ll be okay. Besides, if I remember correctly, you had a date waiting for you. He’s probably eager to find out we haven’t killed each other.”

“Crap, I was having too much fun fighting you, I forgot about Jean. Hopefully, he’s not drunk by the time I get there.” Eva runs to the elevator. “Thanks for the sparing Ayame it was really fun, bye.”

Ayame waved towards her as the elevator, then went to retrieve her sword. She looked up, and said, “Start program Ayame twenty-two.” The room again turned into the Ethereal base, but Ayame hesitated. After a moment, she said, “Cancel. Start program Ayame three.” The room shifted to that of sunrise on a California beach. Ayame sat in the sand, and watched the sun sink below the horizon as two familiar children played together in the water.

 

[Dahlexpert]

"Eva's Busy Day: Part Three

Jean hiccuped lightly, staring at the bottom of his mug. Again, he wondered if he had bit off more than he could chew, and motioned the bartender for another beer.

“Don’t give him another beer.” Eva said from the other side of the room and walked next to Jean. “You’re drunk arent you?”

Jean shrugged. “A little, m-maybe.” He gave Eva a half smile. “Good to see Ayame didn’t kill you.” His smile dropped, and he asked, “Y-you didn’t kill her, did you?”

Eva wave the bartender to give her a beer. “No, she’s fine, just a little sore is all. She will be just fine.” The bartender gave her a beer and Eva took a drink out of it. “Besides I had fun fighting her.”

“Good… good…” Jean placed his head on the bar. “So, um… what was all that stuff she was talking about. Something about a daughter? And her team? I didn’t think someone your age had a kid, let alone one old enough to kill people. Guess that was my fault for not asking more questions…”

“Yeah, it’s probably a good thing you're tipsy. And it’s more complicated than that. See, Eve, Vee, Ellen, Emma, and Lily are my kids, but only because they have my blood in them. I never gave birth to them. See, Eve was my youngest, and her killing Ayame’s squad? That was the first time I heard of that. Because she was 5 years old then.”

“Most have been a real sour five year old.” Jean muttered. “So, does that mean you have ties with EXALT, just like those Legion women?”

“Well, you could say I led them. See I was Lussets right hand back then. But that... well, that kinda wraps up one thing I wanted to say to you. So let me refresh. I have 3 kids and I was the leader of EXALT’s right hand.”

Jean closed his eyes for a moment. With a deep sigh, he motioned towards one of the patrons behind Eva. Once she turned around, he quickly grabbed her beer and downed it. “Sorry, love. Needed one more. Please continue.”

“Yeah, I figured. Um, this one you might get angry at me for. So do you remember when I went down to engineering to get my weapon modified?”

“Uh-huh.” Jean’s eyes drooped a bit, and he blinked rapidly. “You mean when you met Alice, right?”

“Bartender, can I get a shot of whiskey? He’s going to need it.” The bartender went to get a bottle. “Alright, um... see me and Alice were talking and I told her to continue to tell me… what you were saying about me and…. um.” Eva face starts to turn red “Um Alice said that you…..T-that you um loved me.”

Jean squeezed his eyes shut, and buried his face in his hands. The pair sat in silence as George Thorogood’s ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’ played on the radio. Greedily taking the whiskey from the bartender as he arrived, Jean took a shot and let the liquid courage talk for him. “L-listen, Eva, I… I-I think you’re a great woman. Y-you have your flaws, yes, but we all do. And although your impulsiveness can, a-and has, rubbed others the wrong way, I’ve seen something great inside you. And even though I consider Alice a person, when I’m working on her mechanical parts, I tend to… forget I’m talking to a person, and blab things I probably shouldn’t have said out loud. Things like… inner desires.” He looked down. “Things I would have liked to tell people myself, not have them learn from other people.”

“Why do you think I’m telling you this, dummy? I told Alice to keep it a secret from you because I wanted to hear it from you. But the reason I wanted to talk to you is because as a soldier, I don’t know when I’m going to die….again. And during my first life, I was so focused on becoming a great soldier, I never had time for love. But now that I’m here, I seem to have found someone I care about and want to protect, so I might as well say it first even if you might not feel the same.” Eva grabbed Jean’s head. “I love you Jean. So, so much.”

Jean’s eyes darted back and forth, partially from surprise, partially because he was wondering how much he heard from Eva was real, and how much was the booze speaking. “You… do?” He looked down. “W-why? I’m just an engineer, and not even the highest one on the roster. I’m a flirt, and not even a good one. I… I can’t make you as happy as most of the other men on this base.”

“Why do I love you, why do I love you? Oh yeah, because you're a gentleman, and you’re a nice guy. Yes, you're not the smartest person on base, or the the most handsome. But I love you because of your personality. You make me laugh, you worry about others, and try to find ways to help them, and I don’t care what you say. In my eyes...” Eva started to smile. “In my eyes, you are a perfect person, and you're brilliant.”

Jean smiled back, and chuckled a bit. “Well, then… I guess if you have so much faith in me, I should as well.” He cupped Eva’s hand. “I… I love you, Eva. And I’m sorry I didn’t say so earlier.”

“It’s fine, we both kinda needed time to get our feelings together. Besides.” Eva presses her lips against Jean. “You are going to regret loving me you know that.”

Jean laughed. “Really. Well, with everything I’ve learned so far, if I don’t regret it yet, I doubt I will anymore.” He placed his elbow against the bar, and it drunkenly slip from under him. He fell forward and bit, his face burying into Eva’s chest. “Sorry, love,” he mumbled.

Eva hugged Jean’s head, pushing it further into her chest. “Heh, I don’t mind. Besides I love you remember. And besides, you have done worse to me when were alone.”

“Mmm.” Jean closed his eyes, enjoying Eva’s embrace. He realized he was drifting off, and slowly said, “I… don’t suppose you’d… help me to my room so… I can… sober up, would you?”

Eva get’s a smile on her face. “Of course, my darling.” Eva grabbed her shot of whisky and downed it, then picked up Jean and put him on his back. “You know, this is another reason I love you. Other men would be embarrassed that a woman is giving them a piggy back ride, but you don’t.”

“You kidding?” Jean chuckled drunkenly as they walked through the hallway. “Other men are just jealous they don’t have a woman who can give them a piggy back.”

Reaching Jean’s room, Eva easily supported the man with one hand as she reached to open the door with the other. Surprisingly, she found it locked. A moment of silence let her hear movement inside.

“The fuck?” Eva knocked on the door. “Yo, Jeanne you in there, it’s Eva. Can you open the door?”

“Shush,” Eva could hear whispered on the other side of the door. After a few moments, Jeanne cracked the door open, her hair slightly disheveled. Pushing a loose strand out of her eyes, she said, “H-hey, Eva, what… what’s going on? M-my brother get a bit too tipsy?”

“Yeah, he’s a little too tipsy, but might I ask, can I come in, or am I interrupting something?”

Jeanne looked back into the room, the shoulder of the hastily thrown on robe slipping a bit to show she probably was wearing anything underneath. “Uh… um, actually… yeah, kinda…”

“Dare I ask what’s going on? Or do I need to break the door down?” Eva thought for a moment. “Alright, would you mind telling me what you’re doing so I can take Jean to my room.”

Jeanne signed, adjusting her robe. “I-I… I have a… a friend over, okay?” She noted Jean had passed out on Eva’s back. “I… I can’t let Jean know. He’s extremely protective, and he doesn’t approve of me seeing anyone.” She leaned forward a bit. “He still probably thinks I’m a… you know.”

“Um huh. Whelp, I will be taking Jean to my room, and you enjoy yourself. But before I go, I’m scared to ask but, does this guy have a name, or is he a soldier?”

“He’s an engineer, really nice guy,” Jeanne answered. “I-I’ll tell you about him later. Just, please… before he wakes up. I was expecting Jean to be at work all day.”

“Yeah, yeah, I got it, have fun with your… yeah.” Eva picked up Jean and went to her room. “Yea it’s probably best I take him here. Since Desmond is in the hospital, I have the room all to myself.” Eva gently puts Jean on her bed and sat in a chair. “God, what a day.”