RP XCOM: The Story of Defiance.

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 and ZombieSplitter53: “Cautious Beginnings”
Part 2

Jessica straightened up, and scooted her chair back to where it originally was.

Buniq raised her right hand up, and from the raised skin on the top of her arm, and a small metallic ‘exit’ on top of her wrist, a chryssalid claw extended out. The hybrid winced as it cut open her skin to take it out, but the damaged skin started to mend slowly, but visibly, around the claw. It didn’t bleed much, if at all, either.

“Whoa,” Jessica whispered to herself. She extended a nervous hand, trying desperately not to visibly shake. “M-May I… see your arm?”

Buniq did her best to lay it out to where the blade was facing away from Jessica, off to the side, and moved her arm over. She was shaking, afraid that she was scaring her new friend.

Jessica examined the chryssalid-girl’s arm, paying special attention to the spot the blade had emerged from. “So… this thing is, like, sheathed in your arm, and it has to rip its way out whenever you use it?”

The hybrid nodded. “Y-yeah...I d-don’t think they f-finished the exit piece...I t-think it was supposed to be less harmful...a-and…” Buniq’s eyes darted between Jessica and her chitin-fused skin nervously. “S-something t-tells me that I c-could expand the p-plating over all my s-kin...but I d-didn’t before. I was w-worried it would be too p-painful to push the p-plates out.”

Jessica smiled gently towards her. “Well, you would only have to do that if you were fighting. And now that you’re here, you’re safe from all that, right?”

Buniq nodded. “I h-hope so…”

“As for this, I’m not one to brag, but I consider myself something of a skilled biologist.” At least with human biology. “And I know a skilled engineer. Maybe we could come up with something. I’m not making any promises, and I’d prefer you not using it at all, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try incase you do need to use it.”

“T-thank you…” Buniq said in almost a whisper. “I...I was w-worried everyone would h-hate me for what I a-am...I h-heard one of them talking about a c-city where c-chryssalids k-killed a lot of p-people…”

“But you’re not a chryssalid,” Jessica demanded, almost angrily. “You are an innocent girl who was altered against her will by those… monsters. You are nothing, nothing, like them.”

Buniq retreated back somewhat, eyeing Jessica nervously. “S-sorry…” she uttered. “D-didn’t m-mean t-to...u-upset y-you…” The blade on her arm went back into its ‘sheath.’

Jessica shook her head vigorously. “No, no I’m sorry. I’m not upset at you. I’m upset at other people. I haven’t heard anyone say something yet, but I know there is always someone who blames the victim.” Jessica slowly stood up, and sat on the bed, carefully reaching out to the frightened girl.

Buniq did her best to stay put, not shrinking back further, though she put her hands over the tops of her wrists. By doing so, she hoped to prevent the claws from involuntarily coming out.

Jessica placed her hand on Buniq’s shoulder. “Listen. You probably have no reason to trust me. But I’m going to do what I can to help you. And I know a few people that will think the same, including several of the soldiers on the team that rescued you. So as long as you are honest with us, and let us help you, we’ll make sure you are okay. Okay?”

Buniq nodded. “I u-understand. A-and I’m g-grateful for that…” she tried to smile, but it wasn’t a very honest smile.

Jessica’s eyes darted back and forth. “I, um… I had one last question for today. And remember that I’m here to help you, so I need you to be honest with me.”

“W-what is that?” Buniq asked with a little bit of apprehension.

Jessica gave a similar look, and seemed to be physically pained for having to ask the question. “Y-you… are aware of the… viscousness of the chryssalids, right?”

Buniq nodded hesitantly. “I-I...I have knowledge of th-their battle t-techniques...and h-how they...r-reproduce…”

“Is… any of that viscousness, that feralness, part of you? Do you feel like you’re in… I don’t know, full control?”

“I-I h-have trouble with my c-claws..b-but I think that’s m-muscular! A-and I d-don’t have any o-other problems than w-what a n-normal p-person would have w-when f-fighting!” she protested, her eyes filling with fear.

Jessica raised her hands. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t trying to upset you. I just had to be sure.” She pointed back at the recorder. “A-and I have it on tape now, so everyone else will know. I mean, I was already sure I knew that you were in full control. I was… just doing my…” Jessica gave Buniq a pleading look, her expression that of guilt and shame.

Buniq didn’t seem to entirely believe that she was sure before, but her expression softened at Jessica’s guilt. “I-it’s not something I c-could understand. B-being f-fair, I d-don’t know what t-that’s like. Having a j-job to do, I m-mean…”

Jessica nodded. “I know. And it is a terrible excuse. Please, let me make it up to you. Is there anything I can do to make you trust me? Anything that might make things easier for you?”

“U-uh…” Buniq thought for a moment. “I-I don’t know about the f-first thing...but I d-do sorta wish I had s-something to do...though I’m a-afraid of being around too many p-people…”

Jessica thought carefully for a moment. “I, uh… I’m not… oh, I know! The holo-room!”

“T-the what?” Buniq asked in confusion.

“We have this big holo-training room in the basement. So big, and so useful in fact, that the old holo-equipped shooting range fell out of use almost completely. So the Commander had it turned into a sort of rec-room of sorts. It is limited in the programs it can use, but the AI on base is pretty good at setting things up. I had a few hours set up tomorrow. You can have them, if you want. It is a little unusual for a civilian to use it, but considering your special situation, I’m sure they’ll allow it.”

“I...I suppose it w-would be n-ice to have a change of s-scenery and a p-place to r-relax. T-thank you…”

“It’s the least I can do for my new friend.” Jessica smiled brightly, extending her hand.

Keeping her left hand over her wrist, Buniq carefully extended her right hand, and lightly shook Jessica’s.

 

[BMPixy]

BMPixy & ZombieSplitter53
Flicker of Hope
X-COM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia

Albert flashed his security badge to the guards, and one of them opened the door, it sliding open. Albert asked to the other, “Hey, can you let me know who the SHIV pilot is? I wanted to speak to her.”

“Sunny?” The man pointed towards the back of the room. “She back there. I think she’s trying to make something of the Gamma team SHIV. Didn’t look like she had much to work with, though.”

“Thanks man,” Albert said, patting the guard on the shoulder as he walked towards the back of the room. Albert cracked his knuckles out of habit, as he made his way through the engineering bay.

As he neared Sunny’s work corner a wrench went flying through the air, slamming into the side of one of the large machines. “C… calm down, doctor…” Said a young voice with a British accent.

“What the, what’s going on over here?” Albert muttered, as he closed in on the workspace, sliding around a machine to get a better view of the situation.

Before him stood a nervous blond girl, trying to calm done a seething silver-haired girl, who looked like she was about to go to town on the shattered remains of what used to be Jaberwock. “What’s going on?” She said, not turning around. “W-what’s going on is this is pointless. I-It’s completely destroyed. I’l have t-to build it from the ground up! Stupid aliens, ruin EVERYTHING we do!”

“Uh…” Albert paused, not sure what to think of the situation. He swallowed and said, “Uh, is Sunny present here?”

Sunny turned to face him, her expression almost instantly softening, and her anger replaced with embarrassment. “Oh, M-Mr. Foulke. I’m sorry. I… I-I usually don’t lose my temper like that. I’m Sunny.”

One of Albert’s eyebrows shot up inquisitively. “Aren’t you a bit young to be in a place like this? I mean, there is a war going on, y’know.”

Sunny desperately held back the urge to roll her eyes. “I… I know, but I’m special. I do have degrees in engineering, so I’m qualified, if that’s what you mean.”

Albert nodded his head noncommittally. “Well, I’m sure that you’re qualified for your current position, but if you’re the one operating our SHIVs…” Albert trailed off, a look of suppressed horror crossing his face. “You’ve seen everything this war has had to offer…”

Sunny nodded slowly. “Y-yeah… I have. It… it starts to blend together. You be surprised what you get used to… except for the losses… they n-never get easier…”

“Yeah, I know what you mean,” Albert added, “Death always takes it’s toll…” Albert cleared his throat, and continued, “I, uh, wanted to thank you for your help on Triumphant Vengeance. Saved my life there, from that Chryssalid.”

Sunny smiled shyly. “Oh, um, that’s okay. I was just doing my job. I-It doesn’t mean much, when I’m here safety while you’re out there in danger. B-but I try.”

“Even if you take a dim view of what you did, it still means a lot to me,” Albert said nonchalantly, “If there’s ever anything you need help with, you just go ahead and ask me, alright?”

Sunny shrugged. “There… isn’t much I need. And as a soldier, you're too busy to worry about my needs anyone. But I-I appreciate it.”

Albert grimaced. “Well, actually, technically I’m no longer a soldier… after what happened with the Sectoid Commander, I stepped down until some sort of method of dealing with hostile psionics has been created. Don’t want to risk anyone else’s life because I can’t fight off a little mental interference.”

“Oh… that’s too bad.” Sunny thought for a moment. “If… if we came up with something to help with that, you’d return to being a soldier?”

“Yeah, that was the deal I cut with the Commander. I would have gone for a full demotion, but she talked me out of it, somewhat,” Albert explained with a shrug.

“Good.” Sunny smiled brightly at him. “Then I’ll make sure we come up with something.” She gave him a confused look. “But… what are you going to do in the meantime? You’re not leaving us, are you?”

Albert shook his head. “No, I’ll just be working in the refugee center, with the abductees we recovered from the assault mission. It’s something simple-ish, and if something goes sideways, I won’t be in any place where I can effectively harm XCOM, especially with our more unusual guests.”

Sunny thought for a few moments. “If… if that’s so… maybe there is something you can do for me.”

Albert stood a bit straighter at those words. “Yeah, what would that be?” he asked.

“W-well, not for me. It would be more for a friend. She was worried that the people we saved might be treated bad, especially the two that were altered so much. It… it would ease her mind if I told her I knew someone in security who was making sure no one was messing with them, and they were being treated as well as anyone else.”

“Of course, of course,” Albert replied, nodding his head emphatically, “That’s already part of my job description, so you can go tell your friend that everything’s gonna go swimmingly out there.”

“Great, and I’ll get to work on that something-something for your piece at mind and mental fortitude.” Sunny extended her hand, and big grin on her face.

“Geez, trying to extort another favor out of me?” Albert chuckled, and took the proffered hand, giving it a gentle shake. “Thank you very much, Sunny. I wish you success, even if it’s just for my sake.”

 

[MarineAvenger]

MarineAvenger and DarkGemini24601: “Psionic Diversity Part 1”

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
1600 Hours, Local Time
June 14th, 2018

Desmond was walking around the civilian sector of the base. He wanted to help out all he could after the big mission but from what he had heard and felt, there was another reason he was there. He looked over the faces and bodies of some of the abductees, and he was honestly appalled at what he saw. Modifying a human the way he and Sunny were was one thing but this, he could not condone in any sense. Following the strong feeling he was getting he found himself approaching a familiar face.

Atka was sitting in one of the smaller living areas with a girl in her late teens that looked very much like herself. She looked over as Desmond approached, and her companion did as well, still petting Taqukaq. “What brings you down here, Desmond?” the scout asked.

Desmond sat in front of the trio and he looked at Atka. “I wanted to see our grand hero. You really pulled through for that mission, I am happy that most of us got out, but…” His voice trailed off as a look of concerned found its way on his features. “We lost some good people.”

Atka nodded. “I think everyone’s still thinking about what happened to Gamma. I had Lieu-...Captain Brea explain to me what happened up there...and it was as bad as I thought.”

The girl next to Atka seemed to feel the same way. “All...those people up there that were just…wiped out…”

Desmond nodded solemnly and looked at Atka. “I am guessing a sister?”

Atka nodded, and Nouja’s expression lightened. “My name is Nouja. It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Walker,” the younger sister said.

He smiled. “Spreading rumors about me already are you Atka, I hope she hasn’t been bashing me too hard.” Desmond said jokingly at the girl.

“She was telling me about everyone she knows here...you seem nice enough, if a little broody sometimes,” Nouja replied, Atka giving her a sigh.

He gave an ‘oh really’ look at Atka and he smirked. “I have been known to hang upside down and stir in the middle of the night, looking for prey to drink their blood…” He joked looking at Atka, not letting go she called him a vampire.

“That’s not the only way brooding is used, you know…” Atka countered.

Nouja looked at Taqukaq. Is it always like this?

The husky gave a small shrug that seemed to say ‘sometimes.’

Desmond’s smile faded slightly and he looked at the slightly smaller Inuit girl and back at Atka. So, it is as I thought, there are other people like us that were brought back.

Atka nodded. Five ones that show it strongly...the aliens were busy before we got there…

Is the...what is it...telepathy? Is that really necessary? I think everyone on the rescue mission sort of knows… Nouja asked.

“Not anyone else, though you are right...it probably is a matter of time before it comes out completely,” Atka replied.

“Seems that the secret is up then.” He sighed and cracked his neck. “Who else among the survivors has these...powers?” he said uncomfortably.

“Three of the Indian captives...and another one of my people. My mother does, as do a few others, but in much more limited capacity,” Atka responded seriously. “Enough that without developing their powers, no one would realize it...but the same cannot be said for Nouja and those other four.”

He nodded and looked at Nouja. “How are you doing with them, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Uh...I can use telepathy...and I think I could learn Atka’s ‘ice helix’ thingy if I had enough time…” Nouja answered. “Qamut can create fire, though...that’s more impressive.”

Desmond smiled. “So it seems that not too much different than we already know about, at least this makes it somewhat easier. Atka, do you think we should...introduce these people to one another and try to guide them a little, you know, so no one misuses these things?”

“Maybe...though I don’t think we should develop them further without talking to the Commander or Captain Brea first,” Atka added.

“Fair enough, though from what I have heard is that Brea will be out of comission for a bit and I am sure the Commander is busy right now, so how about we just introduce them and give them some sense of security.” he proposed.

“I think that is fine, I was just advising against teaching them more abilities,” Atka corrected. “Though the Captain is healing quicker than you would expect.”

“Really? I would have expected her to be out for a while considering...” Desmond shifted around uncomfortably as a group of soldiers walked by. “Though we should probably discuss this more in private.”

Atka nodded. “We can go to Nouja’s room, or go find the other...talented people first”

“Yeah, lets gather up who we can, though we may want to meet them in the lab. More privacy and gives us a chance to see what they know.” he brought up.

“Good plan…” Atka affirmed, and got up, gathering the other psions. There was the Inuit hunter in his twenties that Nouja was talking about, named Qamut, an impassive Indian man named Inderpal, a Indian woman in her forties named Veda, and an Indian woman in her twenties named Chandra.

 

[MarineAvenger]

MarineAvenger and DarkGemini24601: “Psionic Diversity Part 2”

After the small group gathered they entered the and Desmond locked the door, Ryan raising an eyebrow at their small group. “What is going on?”

Desmond explained with Atka’s help and he just shrugged his shoulder and went back to his work. “So, Atka, you want to address them or should I?” Desmond asked.

“Well…” she looked over to the five psions. “Me and Desmond want to understand the extent of your abilities. We’re not doing this in anofficial capacity really, more to help you than anything.”

Inderpal said something to Veda in Hindi, who echoed, “My friend wants to make sure you don’t have the same intentions the aliens did...you’re not expecting us to fight this war for you, are you?”

Desmond looked at the man and he walked forward a step. “Not unless you want to, but no that is not the point of this. Me and my friend here just want to make sure we know what you are capable of and how you are coping with these powers.”

Veda repeated what Desmond said in Hindi, and the Indian man nodded slowly. “I think we’re in agreement. We’ll do that much.”

“Okay then, so, who wants to go first?” he said, clapping his hand together.

Qamut stepped up, holding out his hand as his eyes glowed faintly red. From the palm, a fire formed in his hand, though he kept it small since he could not actually direct it.

Desmond walked over to his computer and he typed into it, taking notes of the man.

Inderpal thought for a moment. “Need target. Though it will break.”

Desmond materialized a statue in the middle of the room using the projectors.

Red psionic energy gathered in Inderpal’s hand, and he shot it forward, the psi lance smashing through the target. It visibly drained the man to do so, however.

“Well that is two red ones so far…” he muttered to himself and made a Sectoid materialize. “Why don’t you give it a shot Nouja?”

“I...can try…” she hesitantly said, and reached out, closing her eyes. A thread of mindfray formed, reaching out halfway, but then dispersed. “I haven’t...had much practice…”

“In time,” Veda said gently. Her eyes glowed purple, and she send a spike of psionic energy into the Sectoid’s head. “If this were a real one, it would be panicking right now.”

“If it was a real one I feel like I would have some explaining to do.” he said with a smile. “Hey Atka, what should I categorize the purple psions as?”

“What do you mean?” the Inuit woman asked.

“They seem to just be in a plane of neutrality, nothing really all that different character wise than the psionics of the aliens, so what should I state it as?”

“Well...I guess it’s a median, or neutral, like you said,” Atka responded.

“I’m not really sure how I could show you my power right now…” Chandra wondered. “It’s healing...biokinesis like what I used to help out your Captain…”

“Well then I guess you have already demonstrated you powers to us...” Desmond looked over at Ryan and saw his bandaged hand. “Hey Ryan, wanna be a guinea pig?”

He flipped Desmond off and he walked over to the woman, holding out his bandaged hand.

Her eyes glowed a soft green, and Chandra placed her hands over the wound. The healing process accelerated, and it sealed, the cut becoming a faint line in about 30 seconds.

“Well, that is a first for us. Never had a psionic healer before now.” Ryan started, looking up at the woman and thanking her.

Chandra smiled warmly. “I’m glad I could help.”

Desmond inputed the last of the data and he sat back. “So it looks like we have a little bit of diversity among us. My only question is if they are anymore variants we don’t know about.” He got up and looked over his group. “I can’t imagine what those aliens have done to you but I want you to know that you are safe now. If you don’t wish to have training I will understand, but if any of you wish to help beat back these aliens or contribute in any way it could make the difference. If not, training will still be an option, but don’t expect me to teach you much.”

Veda looked over her group. “I think some of us might want to have some role...since its not like we’re going home like this anyway. Not those that are too young, though,” she added, looking at Nouja, Atka doing the same.

“I wasn’t going to ask to be a soldier or anything…” Nouja said with a roll of her eyes.

“I agree, from what I have seen of Atka’s abilities she wouldn’t be prepared for war…” He looked over at Nouja and at Atka. “No offense or anything but considering how hard you worked to get to where you are, she wouldn’t be worth training as a soldier.”

“I wouldn’t let her,” Atka responded dryly. “She’s 16, anyway.”

“I just want to help out in the medical ward...I could be of great assistance there, I think,” Chandra proposed.

“I think the ‘red’s could fight if necessary…” Qamut added. “Myself and Inderpal would probably be interested in something like that.”

“Personally...I think I’m a little too old to be fighting on the frontlines, but security or something, no problem,” Veda finished.

Desmond walked forward to Chandra. “Then we could use you in the medical ward.”

He then proceeded to the red group and said. “You guys will be training with me. The ones who want to be soldiers, I can train you daily, weekends you have off and when I am on mission you get a day off but don’t expect it to be easy.” He looked at Veda and said, “I will respect your wish and let you try security, you can attend my lessons when you can and if security doesn't work out we can always use hands in here to help R and D.”

Looking over at Atka he stated. “I will submit a report to the Commander and ask for authorization to put them to work. I won’t train Nouja, she is your sister and she does share you particular type.”

Atka nodded. “And we’ll see IF the Commander wants you two serving as soldiers. That’s something we’d have to ask about first, so I won’t make any promises. I’m more certain that they’ll let you work in the medical ward, Chandra. And I know Desmond knows a certain doctor that could introduce you,” she added, grinning at Desmond teasingly.

“Yeah…” He rubbed his neck and sat down. “but I am more than confident that the Commander will approve, we need soldiers and with these tougher enemies…” He looked Atka in the eyes. “We need all the help and power we can get.”

 

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 and BMPixy: "First Time on the Job"

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
0900 Hours, Local Time
June 15th, 2018

Isitoq II sat on a couch in one of the living rooms of the civilian quarters, looking over his weaponized metal arm. He understood how it worked well enough to hypothesize that it was impossible to replace it with an organic one, but he was unable to conclude if it could be modified to not always be a weapon. The power was currently drained so that it would not be used that way, and inhibitors placed by engineering staff were in place.

Behind him and the couch, Buniq II knelt behind the couch, watching passerbys with the one eye that wasn’t obscured by violet hair. Without the presence of her brother, she likely would still be in her room. Social contact was not her preferred way of spending a day, the human-chryssalid hybrid had quickly realized.

With a quick sigh, Albert steeled himself for his new role. A hand brushed over the tools of the trade: a pistol, a taser, and a baton, all for in case things went pear-shaped and somebody needed to be subdued, or worse. One last moment to calm his nerves, and Albert stepped into the living quarters, believing himself ready for whatever may come.

Buniq seemed to sink lower behind the couch at the sight of the security guard, while Isitoq barely seemed to notice him at first.

“I assume you two were among the abductees we recovered?” Albert asked, rolling his shoulder uncomfortably in the silence.

Isitoq looked up at Albert. “That assumption would be correct. You were one of the three squad leaders,” he remembered.

“Yes. Albert Foulke, if you would have my name. I’m the new security guard assigned to deal with those we recovered from the alien base,” he explained.

“Security guard?” Isitoq asked curiously. “Were you not a soldier before, likely an officer or at least a non-commissioned officer?”

Albert grimaced uncomfortably. “It is a long story. Suffice to say, where my loyalty was strong, my mind was weak, and the Sectoid Commander picked up on that. Until we have some way of strengthening my mind, I deemed myself a liability, and had myself transferred here.”

“Hm. There are likely cybernetic or genetic enhancements possible, but that would take time and research. For now, welcome, Mr. Foulke,” Isitoq surmised.

“H-hello…” Buniq simply said from behind the couch.

Albert nodded in reply, and took a seat in a nearby chair. “So, do you two mind telling me a little bit about yourselves? I’d like to know about those I’m helping out, y’know?”

“My designation is Isitoq II-”

“J-Jessica s-said it would be better i-if we just w-went by our normal n-names,” Buniq protested meekly.

“Very well. My name is Isitoq, a clone of a previous human who shared the name. As is apparent, I am...the word would be mechanized, I believe. Not unlike your MEC troopers.” Seeing Buniq’s unwillingness to introduce herself, he added, “My sister is Buniq, also based of a previous human. She is genetically modified to share the DNA of what you call ‘chryssalids’.”

“T-though n-not my m-mind!” Buniq made sure to state.

“I understand,” Albert said in an attempt to calm her, “Not like you two had any choice over what you got mixed with.” Albert paused for a minute, trying to think of further conversation topics, before settling on, “So, how have you guys liked the facility so far?”

“It is relaxing, I suppose,” Isitoq said, looking over at his sister. “You did say you were going to check out the ‘holo-room’, didn’t you?”

“N-not alone, t-though…” Buniq affirmed. “I was w-waiting for you to be done.”

Albert glanced at a nearby clock, and said, “Well, judging by the time of day I don’t think there’d be that many people there at the moment. I believe, if necessary, one of my co-workers would be willing to escort you.”

“D-do I n-need an e-escort?” Buniq asked quietly. “I-I just wanted to m-make a n-nice place t-to r-relax and b-be alone…”

“I don’t think so, but for your safety, I’d take one,” the Amero-Anglican said, “Never know when some hoodlum with a point to prove decides to take out their anger issues on somebody who looks a bit different.”

“W-well...I-Isitoq could protect m-me…” Buniq offered.

Albert shrugged noncommittally. “It’s whatever you want to do. I’m just here to advise security, and if necessary, break up any incidents.”

“I suspect we might have some of those soon,” Isitoq anaylzed. “It is not hard to tell that not everyone here cherishes the thought of having us around. For instance, the circumstances of the death of LCPL Clark has marred Buniq’s presence, even if such a connection is unfounded in reason.”

Albert tensed slightly at the mention of Clark. “Yeah, if anyone should be put on the burner for his death, it’d be me. My orders that got him killed, after all, nothing to do with Buniq.”

“It sounded like the situation was inevitable. The Broodmother’s den was not an ideal fighting place, from what knowledge I have of it. I believe their hatred has more to do with half of what Buniq is, though again, that is illogical,” Isitoq concluded.

“The error there is that you put humans and logic in the same room, and expected logic not to come out with a shattered spine and its head shoved up its own arse,” Albert replied. “People do stupid things like blaming one for the actions of another, or mistaking the work of the many for the work of the few.”

“That is perhaps true. Not that the aliens are much more logical. That realm seems to be solely the domain of computers...and to a lesser extent, those like myself and the Interface,” Isitoq mused.

Albert shrugged. “Yeah, were the aliens a bit more logical, we could have avoided this whole war. Or lost in 72 hours, either or. But regardless, we probably wouldn’t be having this conversation.”

“I cannot attest to their full intentions, but that does hold true to an extent I suppose,” Isitoq responded. “What could you tell us about yourself, before we go to the holo-room? An exchange would only be ‘fair’.”

“Yeah, it would be,” Albert said, scratching at the back of his neck. “Not much to say, really. Just a simple Amero-Anglican, joined the military, fought in the Middle East, brother got killed by a pack of Thin Men, at least one of which is still on base and kicking, and then I joined XCOM for revenge. Then things got complicated with all this shades of grey stuff.”

“So another was spared. Perhaps he is more...tolerable than XCOM will find Samuel Wilson. That one is...known for his cruelty,” Isitoq explained.

Albert snorted. “I wonder if he was the one who pulled the trigger on Richie,” he muttered. “But for the other one, whom I’ve heard is calling itself ‘Dante’, he is tolerable. Almost seems a bit regretful over what he’s had to do, but I don’t trust him. He’s a spook, y’know?”

“...I do not follow, but ‘okay?’” Isitoq said, saying slang strangely as he seemed unused to using it. “You could ask Samuel Wilson, but I am not sure if you will get a straight answer or not. I imagine he is fairly upset at being captured and losing his powered armor.”

“Eh, I’ll find a way to worm an answer out of him. Didn’t get through life by being a straightforward, honest guy, after all,” Albert said with a smirk.

“I wish you ‘luck’ then. As for us...we do have a room to visit,” Isitoq finished.

“Alright, I’ll let you go then,” Albert said, standing up from his chair, “Might as well go and talk to the other rescuees, myself. Been nice talking with you.”

Isitoq nodded, standing up as well, and was followed by Buniq, though it took her a moment to come out of her shelter. She did her best to face away from him so that the minimal amount of her yellow irises or chitin plating would show.

Albert sighed, and stretched for a moment, before heading off. “Now, let’s go find the others…” he muttered.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

ZombieSplitter53 and DarkGemini24601: “Connection Established”

Freedom is bittersweet. The thought echoed in Yaralria’s enhanced mind as she sat in her room. She was free of the inhibitors, of having to lie and act selfish in order to prevent unparalleled pain, free from having to hurt those she cared about. And yet...there was no going back. For she had been changed irrevocably. Knowledge of the alien language, the alien computer language as well, and more things about them and their technology than she cared to know about were available to her instantaneously. The simple life in the north she knew was lost forever. Atka had tried to reassure her, but it was not hard to see the truth of the matter. The old Yaralria was not fully recoverable. The new Yaralria, the ‘Interface’, was what was left behind.

Sunny slowly made her way through the civilian quarters. She wasn’t sure if she was allowed to be here, especially without her escort, but she had started to feel more and more bold lately. Besides, there was someone she wanted to meet, and she couldn’t wait for approval. And she didn’t want anyone interrupting her in order to poke and prod someone.

She reached the appropriate room, and dusted herself off. Knocking lightly on the door, she cleared her throat and said, “Hello? A-anyone home?”

Yaralria got up, and opened the door, looking down at the young, white-haired girl in front of her. “Hello?” she said, or seemed to ask more than state.

“I, uh… u-umm…” Sunny stared up at the Inuit woman. She came to the horrifying realization that she had been so focused on meeting Yaralria, she had no plans for what she would actually say to her. “I… h-hello.”

“Is there something you needed?” Yaralria asked, trying to figure Sunny out. She had to wince her right eye to keep it from trying to look at the girl in difference spectrums, knowing her pupil splitting open would probably scare the poor girl. And herself.

“I… m-my name is Sunny.” The young girl smiled meekly. “I… just wanted to meet… to see if everything was okay. I… work in engineering, so if you had any issues… m-mechanical issue, I could help.”

“I believe my...enhancements...are mostly self-sufficent. Though...are you not a little young to be working with technology?” the Interface inquired.

Sunny’s eyes darted back and forth. “W-well, actually… if there is anyone on this base that would understand… d-do you mind if I… come in?”

Yaralria shook her head. “You can. It is not much, though.”

“That’s okay, I don’t usually need much.” Sunny cautiously stepped inside the room. “Um… you have a lot of implants, right?”

Yaralria nodded slowly. “My brain was heavily enhanced to allow for the storage of immense amounts of data related to alien technology and scientific expertise,” she said almost mechanically, grimacing at how memorized the explanation felt.

Sunny just watched her, seemingly unaware of any discomfort. “Really. I mean, I knew that, I… read the… the reports.” She sat down in a chair. “I have implants in my brain too. They help me interface with computers, and they’ve upped my memory a lot. Though, they’re probably not nearly as advanced as you. I’m probably a… a Commodore 64 to your Nasa computer…”

The Interface nodded. “That is likely. Though...the process in which it was done...was not...ideal.”

“Neither was mine…” Sunny shook her head, pushing off negative thoughts. “But I just wanted you to know that I’m not… that you’re not alone. If you need someone to talk to… and I know your daughter, so…”

“I am grateful for that. And, if it interests you, I do have data on the mechanized forces that Atka encountered in the engineering wing of the alien base,” Yaralria mentioned. “Not everything, but much more than the invaders themselves recovered. That was part of my purpose as well...a biological backup system.”

“Really?” Sunny smiled. “So they must have needed you a lot. You must have been really important.”

“I suppose so. From what I gather, I may have been the first of my kind,” the Interface explained. “The aliens were going to use me as a test subject fighting the Mutons...but when that one...Ogedei, I believe, spared my life, they tested me for psionics. Being disappointed in my overall potential, they decided to attempt to merge human and machine. Whether this was done as a unique attempt, or done with knowledge of you, I do not know.”

“Hmm.” Sunny shuddered, the thought of her mere existence leading to this woman’s suffering a frightening idea. “I… I’m sorry. I’ve been gushing over you, talking like everything about you is great, but I know more than anyone the pains you went through to become like this.”

“You are...more used to it, I imagine. I lived my life in a small village in the far north...all of this technology...this knowledge...it is unfamiliar to me. And it frightens me that I have so much of it. That I can speak with fine articulation, that I could take apart one of the SHIVs and put it back together again.”

Sunny looked away, suddenly feeling incredibly guilty. Searching for something, anything, to say, she finally settles on saying, “I know… I know this probably doesn’t mean much, but I know what it means to be alone… and afraid. I’ve been surrounded by technology all my life, but I only started interacting with people a few years ago.”

“I hope my daughter has been kind to you, though it would be uncharacteristic of her not to be,” Yalaria said. “And I appreciate the gesture.”

“Are you kidding?” Sunny’s face lit up. “She’s been great. W-when I was really down, and I started doubting myself, she helped me keep going. And she’s not the only one. I’ve been able to come this far because of the support I’ve received from others. A-and you’ll get that support too. There’s me, and Atka. And I’m sure the people on the last mission will support you. So e-even if your scared, just remember that we’re here to help.”

Yaralria smiled. “You are a kind girl, Sunny. I can see why Atka would have befriended you.”

“Thank you.” Sunny looked around the room, suddenly realizing something she had missed before. “Um, wait. Where is your other daughter?”

“Nouja? She was in the lobby, I think,” Yaralria replied. “Or with Atka.”

“Is… is she adjusting well?” The young engineer gave a cautious smile. “I read that she has abilities like Atka.” Sunny eyes darted back and forth, still surprised about Atka’s amazing powers.

“To a lesser extent, yes. She possesses telepathy and limited ESP. Atka thinks she could teach her mindfray if she tried,” the Interface explained. And I can use the first ability, to an extent, she transmitted to Sunny. Though it wasn’t enough to please the invaders. I doubt I can develop the more impressive abilities.

“W-well, there are plenty of people here that can’t do anything like them, and they’re just fine as they are.” At least… until we figure out how that thing we found works. Sunny looked up at Yaralria, unsure if she accidentally transmitted that. “Um… I can’t do much either. Though I do have this strange… can you control machines with your mind, even one’s you aren’t directly connected to?”

Yaralria raised an eyebrow. “That is unique to you, I believe. I can do no such thing. And what do you mean by ‘that thing?’”

“Oh… um…” Sunny winced, and stammered a bit, unsure how much she should say to a civilian. Realizing Yaralria would know better than anyone, and that someone would probably ask her eventually, she said, “Well, I came here to introduce myself, not to bother you with business, but we found this strange device at the base. It’s giving off a lot of psionic energy, and Dr. Vahlen and D-Dr. Shen both think it was used to u-unlock the abilities of the people we rescued, which would i-include you and your daughter.”

The Interface frowned. “I do not have much data on that...but if it is some sort of psionic device, it likely operates on a similar principle to the control systems for the ‘Titans’ that XCOM fought. It would require a psion to control it, very likely. And I imagine that is what the Commander of the base was doing.”

“Interesting. I should let Dr. Shen know…” She jumped to her feet. “Is there anything else you could tell us about that control system? If it is similar to the device, whatever you tell us could be important.”

“Well, I doubt the device you found requires the motion control like the ‘Titans’ did. The robotic control system used the psionic energies of the Titan to essentially extend the mind of the user to the body of the robot, and control all of its systems,” Yaralria explained. “Though I do not have much data on something used for psionic awakening. I do know there was something else dubbed a ‘Hyperwave Beacon.’ The Base Commander was using it to communicate with whoever he served. Did you find that device as well?”

“We might have. D-do you know what it looks like?”

“A tall structure with external rings and a shell, as well as a glowing orange center. Do you have anything that fits that description?” the Interface asked.

“We do!” Sunny nodded her head vigorously. “I should tell Dr. Shen right away.” She frowned. “I’m sorry, I-I hope I didn’t bother you too much with my visit.”

Yaralria shook her head. “It was nice meeting you, Sunny. Perhaps I could help you in the future, considering that I have little else to do as is.”

Sunny nodded. “I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot of each other.” She peeked out the door to be sure none of the security guards were around. Satisfied she was clear, she gave a quick wave to Yaralria, and took off.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Challenging Authority

Morrigan stood silently in the middle of the Central, watching as people moved to and fro, fingers flying across keyboards, papers being passed back and forth. The holo-globe was aglow with possible alien sights.

Bradford approached her from behind, his usual serious expression somehow even more serious. "Commander, the Council..."

"Bring them up in here."

Bradford blinked repeatedly. "I'm... sorry, sir? Wouldn't you rather take this..."

"No, I'm sorry. I didn't realize I stuttered." Morrigan turned to face her second in command. "Bring... them... up..."

Bradford sighed, and walked up to a computer screen. The rooms main screen switched from a world map to the silhouetted Council spokesman.

"Commander." The man paused for a moment, presumably because he noticed he was on the main screen. "Commander. The Council is relatively pleased with the results of your recent attack on the alien base. We are pleased to inform you that our Indian Council members have shown interest in rejoining the X-COM project. While we are usually not so eager to award dissension, we have reason to believe we originally lost India to alien influence, and we could use the financial support."

"It is good to hear you have your priorities straight," Morrigan said with a hint of condescension.

"There are a few things we wish to speak with you about, however. You... may wish to..."

"It's all right." Morrigan grinned. "I have an idea of what you are going to say. It'll be fine to talk about it here."

"Very well. We have been informed that you have allowed the altered humans to mingle amongst the normal humans. We feel this is a dangerous breach in security."

"I disagree." Morrigan folded her arms. "I will not treat them like alien captives. And if I am wrong, I trust my security staff to keep them in line."

"Very well. It has been brought to our attention that, despite our insistence that the budget would not cover it, you have brought a therapist..."

"Mr. Parker was brought on as an emergency medical consultant," Morrigan interrupted. "But right now, he is not needed for that. It just so happens he has a degree in psychiatry, so he might as well act as a therapist while he is here."

"Very... well. We are concerned with the alien's level of technology displayed during the last mission. We feel that your volunteer policy for the gene mods and MEC program..."

"No," the Irish Commander said flatly.

"...we... believe it is time you start ordering you soldiers to participate..."

"What part of 'no' did you not understand?" Morrigan narrowed her eyes. "Yey deaf git." Several staff members grasped, all heads turning to the Commander.

"I beg your pardon? Need I remind you that this is not completely your decision to make."

"The hell it isn't, ya gombeen." Before the Councilman could speak, Morrigan took an angry step forward. "Now you listen to me. I've put up with you thinking you know how to run this project better then the person you supposedly put in charge for long enough. But I draw the line at you wanting to force my men to alter their bodies against their will."

The spokesman remained silent for several moments. "You realize that this... act of defiance will not go without consequence."

"And what are ye gonna do about it, ya gobshite? Replace me?" Morrigan laughed smugly. "Then do it! And see how long the men and woman are willing to follow my replacement when they find out you got rid of me because I wouldn't force them to manipulate their genes."

The spokesman shifted uncomfortably. After a solid minute of silence, he simply said, "We... will be in touch." The screen went blank, and was replaced once again be the world map.

Morrigan looked around Central, not a single person there not giving her a look of shock. "What are ye all lookin' at? Get back te work!"

She stormed out, and headed straight for her room. She locked the door behind her, and slowly walked over to her bed, laying down and closing her eyes.

"M... mommy? Are you crying?"

Morrigan looked to her left, quickly wiping her eyes and smiling at Brigid. "No dear, I'm not crying. Did you have a nice nap?"

Brigid nodded drowsily. "Yes, mommy. Can you get the soldier people so I can get lunch."

Morrigan quickly climbed off her bed, and lifted her daughter up. "No, dear. Because I'm gonna bring you to lunch. How about we go to the rec-room. I've been told their food is better then the mess, and my precious deserves only the best."

The young blond nodded, and placed her still sleepy head on her mother's shoulder as the two headed out.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

New Delhi

As the familiar symbol for then Council came on her computer's screen, Morrigan took a deep breath, trying to prepare herself for the possibility that she was out of a job. She answered the message, and was surprised to see someone different. They were still silhouetted, but whoever was on the screen had a smaller frame then the man she usually spoke to. "Good morning, Commander," he said in a higher, younger voice then the last spokesman. "I hope you are well today."

"Uh, yeah, peachy." Morrigan raised an eyebrow. "What happened to the other guy."

"We have come to the realization that the is something of a... trust issue between X-COM and the Council of Nations. I shall speak on the Council from now on, in the hopes that I can build up such a trust."

"So your first act of showing trust is to replace one faceless voice with another faceless voice." Morrigan shrugged. "So, am I still in command of X-COM."

"You are. And we have a task to ask of you. As you have been made aware, India wishes to rejoin the X-COM project. However, the countries capital has become on holding ground for the last of the alien forces in India. As a sign of solidarity, and to prove the benefit of trusting both X-COM and the Council to all nations, we would like you to send troops to assist the Indian military in an attack to retake India."

Morrigan nodded, still a little surprised to be so easily off the hook. "Um... you got it. We'd be happy to assist the Indian military."

"Excellent. Please start gathering supplies and... volunteers. India will be informed you are on your way. And we will be in touch."

The screen went blank, and Morrigan simple stared at it for several minutes. She then hit her intercom. "Peg, I need my seniors in here ASAP."

Fifteen minutes later, Dr. Vahlen and Dr. Shen walked into the office, followed closely by Bradford pushing a wheel-chaired Aya. Morrigan stood up, and walked around her desk, standing before her crew. She smiled at Aya. "Please, don't get up," she muttered, and got a middle finger in response. "Ladies and gentlemen, we have been called to assist India in retaking New Delhi. Bradford, I'm afraid my duties keep me bound to this base like an invisible tether. You will be in command of the troops in India. Brea, as soon as you are up to it, you'll take over as my second in command."

"Yes, sir," Bradford and Aya said in unison.

"Shen, Vahlen, how quickly can you get supplies ready?"

"I can have a healthy supply of transportable lab equipment ready within twenty-four hours, Commander," Vahlen answered.

"And within that time, I can prepare a healthy supply of equipment, weapons, and other such supplies for our troops," Shen added. "As well as any extra equipment we have available for the Indian military to work on."

"Good, do it, and start building a list of the people you'd think would work best in India, and start looking for volunteers." Morrigan turned back to Bradford and Aya. "Captain, you do the same for the soldiers, and Bradford, start looking for volunteers amongst security, maintenance, and medical. And remember, we need to keep people here as well. I want to be ready to leave by noon tomorrow."

"Yes sir," everyone quickly answered, and turned to get to work.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

“Frigid Tranquility” - Buniq and Atka

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
0930 Hours, Local Time
June 15th, 2018

“S-so…how d-does it work?” Buniq asked.

“Explaining it to you would be more difficult than just telling you how to operate it. Simply tell the computer what you want in the simulation, and it will recreate it to the best of its ability,” Cheshire said lazily.

“Oh…t-thanks.” Buniq thought for a moment, as Isitoq stood outside of the simulation area to make sure no one would disturb his sister. “U-um…m-make a forest.”

The blank room sprang to life, starting to construct trees. “Elaborate,” it inquired.

“A…a taiga,” Buniq specified. “D-during the winter…b-but not too c-cold.”

The trees became evergreen coniferous, and snow and shrubbery appeared as well. The temperature dropped, but Buniq did not feel too cold. She walked through the taiga, enjoying the quiet and the gentle wind that was blowing through it. It’s…peaceful here. Is th- The hybrid held her head, as a memory was brought to life.

-Flashback Start-

“I-It’s kind of cold here, brother…” Buniq complained, holding her parka tight around herself. “Why are we here again?”

“You were the one that wanted to go somewhere outside of the village,” Isitoq replied, chuckling. “If we find a couple of rabbits we can supplement our dinner tonight.”

“Can I have a spear, then?” Buniq asked.

Isitoq held it out so that Buniq could grab the handle. “Here.”

The girl smiled, and spun it around experimentally. “I hope I can be helpful. You did show me how to use it a few times.”

Isitoq held up his hand. “I think you’re about to get a chance,” he whispered, pointing a rabbit sitting on a rock. “I’ll lead it in a direction, you throw where it goes. I’ll lure it right.” He threw his spear just to the left of the rabbit, and it hopped to the right, into the path of Buniq’s spear.

She was triumphant for a moment, and then looked at the dead rabbit a bit sadly.

“It is the way things are. We must eat to survive, after all,” Isitoq explained.

-Flashback End-

Buniq opened her eyes, and blinked, realizing she was looking at a wolf. It titled its head at the 17-year-old, and then walked off in another direction slowly, almost as if it wanted her to follow. Carefully, the clone did follow it. She came to a stream, where she saw another Inuit woman sitting. “U-uh…hello?”

Atka turned around, smiling gently. “I hope I didn’t surprise you. I walked down here and asked Isitoq if I could come in.”

“I-it’s okay…I-I’m not really s-scared of you…” Buniq sat down a few feet away from Atka.

The scout noticed Buniq’s pensive look. “Something wrong?”

“I-I r-remembered something…t-that the original B-Buniq experienced. A ta-taiga like this…when she and the original Isitoq went hunting…”

“And that torments you?” Atka asked.

Buniq nodded. “I-I feel like I-I’m just a knockoff…n-not a whole p-person…a-and the real me is d-dead…”

“Look…” Atka ran her hands through the cold, simulated water. “You are your own person. I think you should cherish the memories you have…but not pretend to be someone you’re not. The Buniq of the past is gone now, we should let her rest in peace. Be yourself.”

“I-I’m not s-sure what b-being m-myself means…” Buniq protested.

“Then find out,” Atka proposed. “And you already know to an extent. You like nature, you like being alone and at peace. You’ll figure things out, I promise. And we’ll all be here to help you.”

Buniq felt the water as well, shivering slightly as she felt how cold it was compared to the air. “R-r-right…”

Atka smiled again. “Now how about we take a walk through the desert?”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

I wanna be Magic, too!

Brigid stuck her tongue out, her arms moving from side to side as though it would help her play her game better. Her eyes darted around the small screen, and after a few more button presses, the screen lit up as the last enemy flew off the platform. "Yes!" Brigid shouted to herself, placing the game down and laying back on her bed. She reveled in her small victory as she turned her head to the right, shrieking at the sight of the small white animal next to her.

Good afternoon, Brigid. I would like your assistance again.

"M-Mr. Kitty! You scared me again." Brigid sat up, and reached over to pat her small friend on the head.

I am sorry. I felt you would be more willing to help me today. It is not time for sleep, and you are alone. I would like you show me where the people from the Indian base are being held.

Brigid thought for a moment. "You... you mean the refingee place. Yeah, mommy said they put it away from the big places, to keep them safe. So it might be hard to find if you don't know where it is."

And do you know where it is?

"Yep! But..." The young girl frowned. "I don't think I'm allowed there."

Kitty stared intently at the child.

It is not dangerous there. Did your mother warn you about going there?

"Umm... no..."

Then it will be fine. Once we get there, you will blend in. And no one will catch you on the way there, I promise.

Kitty jumped off the bed, and walked over to the door. As Brigid moved to join him, he heard the sound of growling behind him. He turned his head towards Shalquoir, who had her fur raised, and started hissing at him. Kitty simply started at the cat, and a few moments later, Shalquoir's fur dropped. She let out a sad meow, and quickly retreated into a cat-cubby.

"What's wrong with Shalquoir?" Brigid asked, opening the door for Kitty.

I believe she had a bad dream. But she will be fine.

The pair ran through the hallways, stoping for minutes at a time and taking long routes to avoid detection. A few times, they had to backtrack, as Brigid's young mind worked to remember the route. As they finally neared the refugee quarters, the child timidly asked, "Mr. Kitty? You remember your promise, right? To give me some magic if I helped you?"

I do. And I will. Help me today, and I will give you your magic.

As the pair walked amongst the civilians, none seemed to pay Brigid any mind, as Kitty had said. The girl did find it strange that he seemed to disappear whenever another person walked by, only to be standing at her side once the person was gone.

"So... what did you want to do here?" Brigid asked, looking around at all the strange people.

I wish to see who came here from the base. As I am sure you are not aware of their exact locations, it is simply a matter of looking. Though I suppose I would be able to do so faster on my own, so you can return... Kitty stopped, looking around for the blond that had been behind him only a few minutes before hand.

"Wow!" Brigid quickly ran up to a crystal girl, who backed away from the approaching girl. At the sight of the crystal girl and her companion, Kitty ran behind a corner. "So pretty! Can... can I touch it?"

The crystal girl exchanged a nervous look with the metal man next to her.

Brigid, I believe we should go. You do not want to draw attention to yourself, do you?

Brigid frowned. She waved goodbye to the crystal girl, and got a timid wave back, before rounding the corner and following Kitty again.

Let is head back... Kitty's fur suddenly turned the same brown as the walls and it ran to the side of the room.

"Excuse me, little girl,"a tall security man with grey hair and a gentle smile said as he approached Brigid. "What are you doing out here alone? Where are your parents?"

"Um... I-I..." Brigid stuttered as she searched for something to say that wouldn't expose her friend.

You were helping your friend, and now you are going back to your mommy.

"What?" Brigid asked out loud.

"I was asking why you were out here alone," the man said softly, crouching in front of Brigid.

Tell him that.

"I-I was helping me friend. Now I'm...going back to mommy."

The man nodded. "Okay. Did you need help getting back?"

Brigid shook her head, her golden locks wiping back and forth. "I know where to go."

"Alright then. Head back to her. It's a bad idea for you to run around by yourself like this." The man stood up, and gently ruffled Brigid's hair before walking off.

"Did I just tell a lie?" Brigid frowned, a look of guilt on her face.

You did not. Kitty returned to her side, his fur white again. You were helping me, and we will now return you to your room.

"You promised I wouldn't get caught."

You were not caught, simply delayed. Come, we shall return to...

"You also promised to give me magic if I helped you, and I helped you twice." Brigid pouted. Kitty stared at you few a few seconds, and she angrily stomped her foot. "You're a liar, Mr. Kitty! You were never going to keep your promise." She turned and started to run in the direction the security man had gone.

I was simply testing you. I wanted to be sure you deserved the magic, and you passed.

Brigid stopped, swirling around and running back. "Really, Mr. Kitty? I can have my magic now?"

Yes. Follow me.

Brigid quickly followed Kitty through the halls, excitement in her eyes. They reached the main lab, and Kitty watched the door. After a few minutes, he stepped through the partially open door.

Follow closely.

"Why are we at the lab school, Mr. Kitty?" The young girl whispered.

What I need to give you magic is in here. Kitty stopped in front of a closed door. Place your hand in front the keypad.

"Um, like this?" Brigid placed her hand in front of a box with lit up numbers, and Kitty stared at her. After three minutes, Brigid asked, "Mr. Kitty, why am I..."

Press the buttons star, seven, two, seven, three, pound.

After taking a moment to remember which button was pound, Brigid did as she was told. The door slid open, and the two quickly stepped inside.

Kitty jumped onto one of the counters, next to a glowing, purple orb about the size of a watermelon. Place your hand on this and close your eyes. If you are able to use magic, this will give the magic to you.

"Will... w-will it hurt?" Brigid asked nervously.

Yes. But it is the only way. We must use it now, before the grown-ups can move it to the room they are building downstairs. But you will be okay. I promise.

The young girl placed her shaking hands on the orb and closed her eyes. "It tingles a little bit."

Kitty placed his paws on the orb. A few moments later, the orb flashed brightly several times, and Brigid slumped to the ground.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brigid slowly opened her eyes, looking up at the green-haired lady with a concerned look looking down at her. "Oh, thank God you're awake."

"Where... where am I?" Brigid slowly sat up, wiping her eyes.

"You're in the main lab. What are doing here? How did you even get into this room?"

Brigid blinked her eyes rapidly, disorientated. She looked around. "Where's Mr. Kitty?"

The lady looked around. "There's no kitty here. Are you okay? Come on, we need to find your parents."

"No!" Brigid jumped up, and gave the green-haired lady a pleading look. "I-I'll get in trouble. Please, please, please don't tell mommy!" Her sky-blue eyes momentarily flashed violet.

The ladies green eyes flashed violet as well. "Okay. I won't tell mommy. Come on, let's get you out of here."

As the two walked towards the door, Brigid asked, "Can we leave without anyone seeing me?"

The lady nodded. "I won't let anyone see you." She glanced out the door, and they quickly made towards the exit. Once out of the lab, the lady said, "Alright. I'll walk you back to your mommy."

"I can go back by myself," the blond child said with a smile.

"Okay. You can go back by yourself." The green-haired lady smiled back. Brigid ran off, waving towards her, and the woman waved back. She blinked several times, looked around in confusion, and walked back into the lab.

 

[Adrammalech]

// TO LIVE AND DIE FOR //
Jack “Dallas” Stewart
XCOM Headquarters – East Wing
Siberia, Russian Federation
7:52 PM

Dallas walked down the winding hallways of the east wing, wandering by deserted barracks as everyone celebrated their victories in the common areas of the base. He suddenly felt a tug and heard the pop of one of his belt pouches come from behind him. As he turned around, he saw a tiny brown-haired girl looking up at him with a grin, holding the navy blue pouch in her hands. She giggled playfully.

“Hey now, that’s not yours,” Dallas said authoritatively.

The little girl looked back and ran to another woman who hugged her protectively. She was older, skinny and flaxen-haired, wearing a blue sweater with mild char marks on the sleeves. She flashed a warm and pearly smile to him as he walked over.

“Sorry about that, she’s a hyper one,” the woman stated modestly.

“It’s okay,” Dallas said, “are you one of the refugees?”

“Yes, they tried to abduct our family weeks ago…it was terrifying, and my husband died fighting them off in our home…then…” the woman said, trailing off and then snapping back. “But now I’m safe and comfortable. I owe you and your friends everything I have.”

“Just our job, ma’am,” he replied humbly, “I’m glad you’re safe.”

“I should say that to you, you’re the one risking your lives for us refugees,” she said with a chuckle.

“Really, it’s nothing…”

The woman wore a look of surprise as Dallas looked away, appearing almost guilty.

“I don’t know if you realize just how much you’re giving to people like us. How long have you been in this life?”

“Over twenty years now. I’ve…been thinking about retiring soon.”

The girl rushed away down the hall, swinging the military pouch overhead like a plane, singing to herself.

“Without a soldier like you, I could be on some alien’s operating table right now,” she said somberly, looking back down the hall and hanging her head a little. “And so could she…”

“I…understand,” he said, looking at his feet, “but I’m just one of many. I feel like it’s time for me to settle down. I’m tired of the blood, and the loss…”

“What about the gain?” she said, touching his arm. He looked up at her and she smiled back. “What about all the people you’ve saved? The people who depend on and trust you every day?”

The girl behind her jumped up and down as she played with the soldier’s pouch, slipping on one of her loose shoe laces and falling onto the ground. She sniveled pitifully as the soldier and the mother ran to her. Dallas knelt down and helped her to her feet, putting her stolen satchel back into her hands and restoring her smile.

“T-thank you, Mister Soldier,” she said shyly.

“You’re welcome. My name’s Jack, what’s yours?”

“Daisy,” she said happily.

“You like that bag, huh?”

She nodded enthusiastically. “I never had an army bag before.”

“Daisy, why don’t you give the nice man a gift for letting you play with his things?”

“Uhmmm…okay!”

The little girl pulled the hairpin out of her messy hair, a small gold sliver of metal with a star on the end of it. She pushed her barrette into the pouch and closed it carefully. She walked forward and handed it up to her mother. The older woman held his hand and put the pouch inside his palm.

“You're made to help people. I can see it in you,” she said, both sincere and authoritative. “This is something to remind you.”

“Thank you,” he replied shakily, taking back his pouch and looking down at the girl, “both of you.”

The woman briefly touched his shoulder with a smile before turning away, motioning for her daughter to follow. They slowly walked back down the hall together, the little girl hopping around excitedly.

“Wait, uh…” Dallas called out, “what’s your name?”

She turned back momentarily and smiled again.

“Abby,” she replied.

The little girl waved goodbye to him as they both walked the other way, returning to the refugee quarters. Dallas watched as she disappeared from sight, then snapped the pouch back onto his belt, tapping it gently. He suddenly felt much better.

 

[Dahlexpert]

The fallowing is in collaboration between Dhalexpert & Zombiesplitter53

Showing concerns.

Ashley, with Cassia, walked to the commander’s office. “Now Cass, I want you to sit here and wait for me, alright?”

“Okay, mom. I’ll wait here, and don’t talk to anyone, right?”

“Right. Excuse me, is the Commander here?”

“She is,” the secratary said. She hit the intercom. “Commander, there is a soldier here to see you. Um… Ms. Van Dam, I believe.”

“Send her in,” the Commander answered.

Ashley approached the door, but before she opened it, she looked back at Cass and saw her drawing. “Hay, Commander, how have you been lately?”

“Busy, Ms. Van Dam. Always busy.” Morrigan smiled. “But I have a few minutes. What can I do for you?”

Ashley smiled at the Commander. “I know that busy feeling. Anyway, I wanted to talk to you about the alien base mission and what my team saw in there.”

“Alright.” Morrigan motioned for the chair in front of her desk. “I’m always willing to listen to a report first hand. A lot more personal than a piece of paper.”

“Yeah, um, how can I put this? What my team saw was probably the most fucked up out of everyone’s mission, but then again, I don’t know what the others faced. Look, I’m not gonna lie, Commander. I've seen a LOT of messed up things in my life, but what was done there was the most disturbing, sickening, inhuman things I ever seen, and I used to hunt down slave traders.”

The Commander motioned her eyes over to the couch on the side of the room, where Brigid was looking through a pop-up book.

Ashley looked at the Commander’s daughter. “Bloody... hmm. Commander, I would like to introduce you to someone.” Ashley opened the door and brought in Cassia. “Commander, this is my daughter, Cassia Van Dam. Cassia, say hi to the Commander.”

The brunette haired girl looked at Morrigan. “Hi, it’s nice to meet you.”

“Hello, Cassia. Nice to meet you too.” Morrigan gave the child a gentle smile. “How old are you?”

Cassia holds up five fingers. “I’m this many, and my mom is the strongest person in our family.”

“I know. That’s why we brought her here.” Morrigan pointed over to the couch. “My daughter, Brigid, is only about a year older than you. Why don’t you go sit with her?”

Cassia looked up at Ashley, almost asking for her permission. “ Go on, Cass Go make a friend, and be nice. I know you're not good with people outside our family, but treat her like you do your cousins. But don’t fight her.”

Cassia nodded her head and went to Brigid. “Hi, I’m Cassia, what’s your name?”

“Brigid.” The young blond offered her pop-up book. “Wanna look at it with me?”

“Okay. After that, do you want to see my drawings?”

Brigid smiled and nodded, and scooted closer to Cassia so they could look at the book together. In a low voice, Morrigan said to Ashley, “I should have pointed her out when you came in, but now that you know she’s here, I hope you don’t mind watching the language.”

“Right, I get it, and will watch my language. So about the mission, when we went in there, we saw human hybrids of the aliens. We saw human-floater hybrids, muton-human hybrids, and so on. So you can see how that can really mess up someone's mind.”

“Indeed. The aliens must see something special in humans to mix them with other aliens, though frankly, I don’t really care what that is. All the more reason to stop them.”

“Well, I’m still having nightmares from that mission. Off topic, kinda, it was made painfully obvious in that base that were out-gunned here. Do we have a way to fix that?”

Morrigan gave an encouraging smile. “No need to worry about that. We have a few high-rank soldiers coming in from Europe. And India was offered us several of their best in exchange for our assistance. And since Captain Brea started working with the new recruits, the new soldiers coming in have been outstanding in their training. Our ranks will be back to full strength within a week.”

“Yeah, having more soldiers is great and all, but I would like to point out our weapons. I mean, it took the combined effort of my squad, Delta, and Beta just to take down one of those monsters, and I’m pretty sure you're going to run into one of those things in india. We need to upgrade our weapons.”

Morrigan thought for a few seconds. She leaned forward. “Well… I don’t want you to spread this around. I don’t want to raise false hopes. But Dr. Shen is confident, with the data we were able to recover from the alien base, he can finally perfect his Gauss weaponry. He could use someone to test them, if you’re up for it.”

“You need me to test out weapons? That I can do, Commander, but there is another thing I’m worried about. Well, two, actually. The first is Ammelia Cross and her surgery. Are you sure you want to keep her here, because at this point she is almost a liability”.

Morrigan raised an eyebrow. “Ms. Van Dam, I can appreciate your concern, but I went through a lot of trouble to get her back on her feet, both figuratively and literally. Mostly for her sake, but also for ours. With her surgery, she’ll be walking again in a week or two, and I’m sure she’ll be eager to get out there, fighting again.”

“Very well, Commander, that’s your choice. I’m just speaking as a doctor and a concerned solder. Also, my other concern, do you think the aliens will find us? I mean were making them pretty mad after attacking their base and now we plan to take India from them do you think that they will come for us at some point?”

“Well, I’d be a fool not to believe they are looking for us. I’m sure they’re looking for us.” Morrigan sighed. “It would probably be prudent to assume that they’ve already found us. We found them, after all. And if that’s the case, the only reason they wouldn’t have attacked us already is because they’re preparing for the attack. And like an earthquake, I’m sure the longer the wait, the worse it’ll be.”

“Hmm. Cassia, I have an assignment for you,” Ashley said.

“Yes mom?” Cass replied.

“I want you to defend that kid next to you, do you understand?”

“Yes, mom. I will keep her safe for you.”

“Commander, if you're wondering why I told my kid to keep your kid safe, it is because, if the aliens do find us, Cass is not trained like me, but we taught her how to hide. And if necessary, how to defend herself. I hope it doesn't come to that, but do you understand what I’m saying?”

“I do.” Morrigan glanced at the children, looking at Cassia’s drawings. “Though I hope you can appreciate that I’ve done the opposite with Brigid, and my ex did the same. I don’t want her following in my foot steps if she doesn’t need it. But if Cassia already knows how to look after herself, I’d appreciate her keeping Brigid hidden if it comes to that.”

“Commander, let me tell you about my family. We do want the next generation to be strong. After all, we are a village of warriors, and our kids see us and want to be like us. But once they’re teenagers, they can have a normal life, and we will support them, within legal reasons, of course. Plus, I think both of our kids need friends and why not each other?”

Morrigan looked over at the kids. “Brigid, dear. If… if anything goes wrong on base... and mommy isn’t around, make sure you listen to the nearest soldiers and stay in hiding.”

“Yes, mommy,” Brigid answered.

Giving Ashley a smile, the Commander added, “But if you find yourself alone with Cassia, I want you to follow her lead. She’ll keep you safe.”

“Yes, mommy.” Brigid answered again, smiling shyly at her new friend.

Ashley looked at Cassia. “Cass, you know what to do, right?

“Yes, mom. Hide in vents, and if that’s too dangerous, hide in cabinets, and fight as a last resort?”

“Good girl, you make me proud every day, my child. Well, Commander, I told you my concerns. I better get going and prepare my little defender.”

“Alright. And keep on guard. With our mission in India coming up, we’ll need every soldier, boh their and here, to be ready for action.” Morrigan gave a quick salute. “Dismissed.”

Ashley give the commander a salute and left the commanders office. “Come along Cassia say goodbye to your friend.”

“Bye, Brigid. I hope we can hangout again.”

“Byebye.” Brigid smiled as her friend and her friend left. She smiled at her mother, and got a grin back.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 and ZombieSplitter53: “Leap of Faith”

Sunny quickly shuffled through the last of her equipment, making sure she had everything. She lifted up the small device she had initially brought with her to X-COM, and looked at the blond holographic girl in front of her. “Now, I’ll be bringing a small part of your program with me, but I’ll be leaving the bulk of it here. They’ll need you more then me.”

“Um… if you think that’s best, doctor,” Alice said, hiding her disappointment.

One of the engineers walked up to the young prodigy. “Uh...excuse me, Dr. Randolf. There is a woman here to see you about something. One of the abductees, I think. Says her name is Yara...lar…li...” He gave up trying to pronounce the name. “Should I let her in?”

“She… came to see me?” Sunny smiled. “U-uh… yeah, please do.”

The man in the hard-hat nodded, and walked back over to the door to let the Interface in. Yaralria approached Sunny. “I heard that you were heading to India with the others,” she explained. “I...wanted to ask you about something…” the Inuit woman said hesitantly.

“Um… of course.” Sunny nodded rapidly. “Anything.”

“You are going to be preoccupied with aiding the advancement of the local military’s technology, correct? I believe I can...supplement your role here. With...the Super-Heavy Infantry Vehicles.” Yaralria didn’t seem entirely sure about her decision, but was determined to at least extend the offer.

The young engineer gave her a confused look. “You… do?” She looked between Yaralria and Alice. “Um… I didn’t think after everything you went through, you’d want to fight. Y-you know you don’t have to, right?”

“Consider it…” Yaralria’s right pupil split open to reveal a silver mechanical glow beneath her eye, and she quickly covered it with her hand. “...a measure of vengeance for what they stole from me. And a gesture to a friend. Atka...told me about how you burned yourself out once. I would not want that to happen again. India is not always...the cleanest place in the world, you know.”

Sunny closed her eyes, remembering her initial reason for helping the FBI years before. “If, umm… if that’s what you want, then okay.” She motioned her hand towards Alice. “The AI does most of the heavy lifting, b-but certain snap decisions, certain requirements in terms of intuition, a-and of course the main orders, require a human touch. I-It’s a bit too complicated for most people, require quick thoughts and inputs that they can’t handle, but because of my implants, and yours, it is possible for us to control with relative ease.”

Yaralria nodded, lowering her hand when her eye returned to normal. “The aliens were developing something strikingly similar to a SHIV. That...I believe, was influenced by their clashes with XCOM. Thus, I am aware of how to operate them to a fair extent, though it will require a short period to get used to the terrestrial programming.”

“Don’t worry about that.” Alice smiled brightly at the Inuit woman. “I’m sure we’ll get along just fine. Though… I don’t have the ability to authorize your use of the SHIVs.”

Yaralria sighed. “I had hypoth…” the woman shook her head, irritated at the use of technical terms she kept using unconsciously. “I had guessed that might be the case. Who would I need to speak to?”

“Well… either the Commander… or…” Alice grinned at Sunny.

Sunny shook her head. “You should talk to the Commander.”

Yaralria raised an eyebrow. “I shall try to do that then…” She turned around, then paused, and faced Sunny again. “Where...is her office?”

“It’s down the hall, a bit of a ways from here, near central.” Sunny looked around, and frowned. “I have to finish getting ready, but Alice can escort you.”

“Very well.” Yaralria turned to the AI. “Lead the way.”

Alice disappeared. A moment later, the lights on a nearby drone lit up, and it floated over to Yaralria. The holographic girl, or the holographic woman, appeared before her. “Right this way,” Alice said, leading Yaralria out of engineering.

The Interface dutifully followed. “Might I inqu-...ask...your name, for future reference?”

“Alice. I’m the same as the young girl, just with some… upgrades.” Alice smiled at her companion. “Sunny prefers to interact with someone more her age, and I can understand why, but I tend to find people take me more serious if I look like an adult.”

Yaralria shrugged. “Children among my people usually are more mature than most quicker. Due to the environment we live in, I imagine...or lived in, rather…”

Alice looked back towards engineering, the drone mimicking her head movement. “Sunny is pretty mature, too. But she’s still a child. She hates to admit it, because she cares more about others then herself, but this can be a bit overwhelming at times. I’d be grateful to have someone who can take some of the load off her shoulders.” She grinned at Yaralria. “I’m sure that doesn’t mean much coming from me, though.”

The Interface shook her head. “I am in no place to think less of you due to you being a machine...of sorts. Considering what I am...we are not so different.”

“Good point.”

The two walked into the Commander’s office. The secretary jumped, mainly at the sight of the alien-looking machine hovering in the air. She hit the intercom. “Um, Commander… you have some… guests…”

“Alright. Send them in.”

Alice walked up to the door, holding it open for her cybernetic friend.

Yaralria walked in, her pupils sliding open unconsciously as she took stock of the Commander for a moment. Noticing the slight tingly sensation, she frowned, and returned them to normal. “Hello, Commander…” the Interface said, seeming apologetic for the odd first impression.

The Commander grinned. She instinctually looked over at the small child at the side of the room, who was already staring at the Inuit woman and sliding off the couch. She raised a finger to stop her, and looked back at Yaralria. “Good afternoon. I’m… not used to seeing a civilian, but I see you have an escort.” She looked Yaralria up and done, feeling there was something familiar about her.

“I wanted to request something. I am one of the alien abductees you rescued, Yaralria. Or, as I was codenamed, the ‘Interface.’ Due to previous experience, I can control the Super Heavy Infantry Units...and I wish to stand in for Dr. Randolf while she is away.”

Morrigan looked over at Alice. “No offense to our cybernetic friend here, but can she be…”

“When she came in, a full scan was done of all her systems. She is completely free of any alien control, at least from what we can tell.” Alice gave Yaralria an encouraging smile.

The Interface nodded. “The psionic override was disabled as well. They no longer have any influence over me. I know that it is a leap of faith to trust me here...but...I wish to take revenge for what they did to me. And protecting those that saved me, including my daughter, makes up from fighting them in the first place.”

“Your daughter, huh?” Morrigan thought for a moment.

“You look like Atka.” Brigid looked up at Yaralria, her curiosity drawing her to the Inuit woman’s side. “Are you her mommy?”

“I am,” Yaralria said with a smile touching her features. “You have met her then?”

“Mmmhmm. She’s my friend. But I still haven’t met T… Taq… uh…”

“Taqukaq,” Yaralria offered.

“Yes, Takukak.” Brigid smiled.

“Well…” Morrigan interjected. “I’m afraid I can’t make decisions based on any affiliations, even to one of my more trusted officers. However, as I can appreciate your resolve, and I don’t want a repeat of what happened to Sunny before, then sure, you can operate the SHIVs. As long as you feel up to it. I don’t want a civilian pushing themselves over their limit.”

“There is little risk of that. If anything, I have little to do as is. I see it as an ideal situation for all of us,” Yaralria explained. “Except for the aliens, of course...but that’s good,” she muttered.

“Alright then. You’ll see to the preparations,” Morrigan asked, addressing Alice.

“I will,” the AI answered.

“Alright. Then get started. Sunny leaves tomorrow.”

 

[Adrammalech]

// ROOKS AND KNIGHTS //
This is a collaboration between Adrammalech and Frostlich1228.
Emily Fischer / Ammelia Cross
XCOM Headquarters – Medical Wing
Siberia, Russian Federation
2:29 PM

Emily walked up to the reception desk of the medical wing, the tiny computer behind the desk manned by the nurse who had caught her sneaking out before.

“Well, if it isn't the escape artist,” she said, a hint of spite hidden by a playful tone, “how can I help you?”

“I'm looking for Ammelia Cross' room.”

“Just a moment...Ammelia isn't in her room at the moment, she's working out as part of her rehab regiment.”

Emily looked a little surprised. “She is? Already?”

“Don't underestimate her, she's very strong,” the nurse said, narrowing her eyes, “and actually follows the rules.”

“Yeah, yeah, I get it, thanks,” Emily rolled her eyes.

She walked down the hallways of the medical wing to a large common area where recovering soldiers would often go. Inside, she immediately saw Ammelia with crutches under her arms, looking over a tall black rack of dumbbells. Emily pushed open the doors and started walking towards her.

Ammelia slowly lowered herself onto a nearby bench and propped her crutches up against the wall. Now facing towards Emily she gave her a smile. “Emily! It's great to see you, how have you been?”
Emily walked over and took a seat next to her, looking plenty surprised at her recovery.

“Oh, you know, I've been busy. Met a little girl, beat Nika in pool...how are you?!” she said dramatically, waving her hands emphatically. “I was worried from all the rumors, but you're looking great!”

“Don't worry, thanks to that doctor's surgery I should be able to live my life as normal. I owe him everything, without him I'd be a vegetable laying in my bed back home right about now.” Ammelia said, pulling a five pound dumbbell off of the rack next to her and placing it on the cushioned bench.

“I can't tell you how much of a relief that is,” Emily smiled towards her, “this whole meld thing on base gave me the jibblies...but if it can help you, it must not be so bad.”

“To be honest I still don't trust it... It put Jessica in the hospital, but it also saved my life... It's dangerous, but extremely useful. I just don't understand why they would drop whole canisters of it for us to take... Maybe I'm just being paranoid...” Ammelia said, struggling to lift one of the dumbbells with her left hand.

“I was thinking the big robot people...but yeah, I guess that is pretty weird too,” Emily replied a little nervously, “hard to argue with results though.”

Ammelia nodded, “Yeah, those MECs are still intimidating. But at least they don't seem like they've lost any of their humanity.”

“How are they treating you here, besides the important stuff? Anyone interesting been visiting?”

“They're treating me extremely well, some of the nurses even stopped for a game of chess.” Ammelia's smiled widened. “As for visitors? Desmond, Atka, Jessica...” Ammelia paused, “And you. That doctor came to see me a few times to make sure there were no delayed problems. But other than that, no one special.”

“I'll make sure the others visit you soon, I know there were some worries of coming too soon and being in the way. I'm glad you haven't been starved for company. Maybe I owe you a game of chess too, although it'd be an easy win for you,” Emily chuckled.

“You're probably better than you think you are, don't put yourself down!” Ammelia said, sitting the dumbbell back down on the bench.

“You've never seen me play, especially if you're beating scientists and nurses,” Emily replied with a smile.

“It's not about how smart you are, it's about figuring out what your opponent's next move will be.” Ammelia grabbed her crutches and placed them under her arms, slowly lifting herself off of the bench. “My Chess set is up in my room, want to go get it?”

“Of course, I'd be happy to,” she said, getting up herself.

Ammelia moved herself forward with her crutches and walked towards the door, motioning for Emily to follow. Emily followed along back through the hospital hallways.

“The nurses and doctors want me to stay in the med-bay until I can walk on my own again, just in case I fall and need someone to help me back up. So this is where you'll find for me the next few weeks.” Ammelia said, leading Emily to the hospital room.

“It's good to know where it is. The nurses here don't like me much for some reason.”
“I saw you give that talk in front of everyone. I understand why the doctors wouldn't like you, but I can't say I wouldn't have done the same if I was in your shoes.” Ammelia replied.

“Yeah, it didn't feel great, but it was important,” Emily replied, “I'm glad that little feud is behind us though.”

“Too many people have died... I heard Grant didn't make it back from that base mission... He was always really nice to me...” Ammelia lowered her head.

“Yeah, it was a very costly mission...but plenty more have lived,” Emily touched her shoulder supportively, “including you. We have to stay strong for them.”

“Don't worry, we will.” Ammelia said, reaching the door to her room. “A lot of people think we won now that their main base is gone, but I don't think it'll be as easy as that...”

“Even if they don't have a leader anymore,” Emily said, walking inside, “they're still around in other countries, attacking people. There's some cleanup to do, and rebuilding after that. We'll be busy.”

“Emily, I don't think that sectoid was their leader... He just doesn't seem very... Leader-y... You can usually tell by how they act. I'm used to the business world, so I should know. If that was the leader, I just think he would've put up more of a fight... Not to mention he is using his own race as cannon fodder, if your race was in charge wouldn't you use them more sparingly? It's just a feeling I guess...” Ammelia explained.

“Well, his power included mind control,” Emily noted, “Maybe the others saw him as something else...something more intimidating. I couldn't tell you about the cannon fodder though.”
“We also still have Exalt to worry about, so we'll have to wait and see what else the aliens want to throw at us.” Ammelia added.

“I'm going to do something about those fellows, myself,” Emily grinned, “I'm going to get to go on the next EXALT mission. I can't wait to screw over those bastards.”

“Are you sure? My bodyguard once told me that the only thing worse than a monster, is another person. Just be careful, please.” She returned with a concerned tone.

“The lowest circle of hell is reserved for traitors,” Emily responded coldly, “as far as I'm concerned, they're enabling all the things the aliens do. Not to mention what they did to Atka. I'll be fine though, I'm well suited for this.”

“I can understand why she wouldn't pick me for such a mission. I was trained by a special operations expert, but I have a very public face, so that could cause problems.” She said, sitting down on her bed and picking up the chess set sitting on the table next to it.

“There's something to be said about an innocent face,” Emily smiled, “just as long as you know how to work it.”

Emily waited for her pieces, trying to remember where each one went.

Ammelia smiled and set up the board, “I have an idea about how to solve that problem though, want to hear it?”

“What is it?”

“I realized that I've looked like this for almost every public appearance I've ever made.” Ammelia lifted up a lock of her hair, showing it to Emily, “You see, this isn't my natural hair color, my father said it was... brown, I think. Anyway, most people don't know that little fact and I can use it to my advantage. Just wash out the dye with some solvent, untie my bun, change my name, and voila completely different person.”

“It's a reliable trick,” Emily smiled, “it's always good for running away from an old life. Although you have to be sure your new color doesn't stand out too much, or you get more attention than you had before.”

“I think brown is fairly common Emily... Right?” She said half-sarcastic.

“Hey, I'm just saying, you might want to go green one day like Jessica,” Emily replied, “that won't make you very stealthy.”

“I don't know what green looks like...” Ammelia said flatly, “If I didn't know better I'd think you were making fun of me.”

“Trying to be helpful, actually...probably poorly,” Emily said worriedly, “you know, if you ever have trouble picking out a color, I'd be happy to help.”

“It's alright, I've just never really concerned myself with what color is what. Sometimes I forget how much people use it in visual descriptions.” Ammelia said finally taking her first move.

Emily grabbed whatever piece she felt was the best and moved it forwards.

“I can't imagine my world without color, but I wouldn't say it's better or worse. Some colors kind of condition your emotions in certain ways, not always in good ways.”

“That's how my friends back home would describe color to me. They would attribute each color to a different emotion or feeling. I guess it help a little.” Ammelia took her knight and moved it forward.

“Yeah, it's strange how it works,” Emily said, mirroring her opponent's move. “Maybe one day you'll be able to see it for yourself, tech is moving crazy fast these days.”

“Sunny said she would work with my father to improve my sight after this war is over. With those two on the project, I'll be able to see colors in no time!” Ammelia said happily, moving her other knight.

 

[Adrammalech]

“There's something to fight for,” Emily said with a smile, “then we'll go shopping for hair dyes together, to celebrate. Or something like that.”

“My dad uses that new Perma-Dye to keep my hair this color at all times. It only comes out with a special solvent that dissolves the dye and lets me just wash it out of my hair. I personally don't care what color my hair is, so I'm fine with it. My dad probably wants to make me look like his dream daughter and if that makes him happy then he can make it any color he wants.” Ammelia stated.

“I wouldn't know what that's like,” Emily made her next move, “I never really had 'dream daughter' potential.”

“Maybe you will someday...” Ammelia moved her pawn. “Hey Emily... May I ask you a question?”
“Shoot,” she said, scratching her chin.

“What do you do if you... like someone... but they already like another person? I mean you're supposed to move on right? But I just can't stop thinking about her...” Ammelia asked shyly.

“Her? I...didn't know you swung that way,” Emily paused awkwardly, “Uh, well, it depends on the other person. If they're married or something, then you have to let it go, but if it's just a crush on someone else, there's nothing wrong with competing...within reason.”

“Well, A blind girl couldn't care less about gender right?” Ammelia chuckled, “For most of my life I was only used to hearing people's voices. So personality is what matters most to me.”

Ammelia moved her rook up a space, “They aren't married... but they may have done some things together... if you know what I mean...”

“That's pretty deep territory for most people. And even if that's not that big of a deal for them, you might hurt the other person at that point too,” Emily sent one of her pieces into a reckless charge, “so, yeah, it'd probably be best to move on. If you love them, all you can really do is wait. That's a painful route to take, though...”

“I want to move on and I'd never want to hurt either of them! But I can't even look at her without getting this heart-wrenching feeling in my chest... I want her to be happy but it's driving me mad just thinking of them together.” Ammelia lazily took her piece, “I'm so selfish, aren't I?”

“No,” Emily responded forcefully. “You can't pick your emotions, you can only control how you act with them.”

Emily moved another piece forward before looking away nervously.

“Honestly, you can't avoid her here, it's causing you anguish, and we all might die tomorrow. It's dumb and selfish advice, but maybe you should just get it off your chest. Like I said, if you can't move on, then the only other option is waiting, and that's not going to make you feel better.”

“I already told her how I feel and she said she needed time to think... I shouldn't have said anything should I? Now she has to choose between us...” Ammelia took another of Emily's pieces.

“Whether it was the right thing to do or not would probably vary on who you asked. Personally, I'd probably do the same,” Emily said, returning the favor. “Just don't let it wreck you if she says no. You're asking a lot from her, and there could be a lot of reasons to say no, and almost none of them are about you personally.”

“Thanks for hearing me out Emily, It's nice to hear someone else's opinion on it.” Ammelia said, giving her a smile.

“Of course,” Emily smiled back, “I'm happy to help. You can always talk to me if you want. I might not have the right thing to say, but I'll be straight with you.”

“You're a great friend Emily...” Ammelia said as she moved her queen across the board, “Checkmate.”

Emily smirked as she knocked over her king. “You too, Ammy.”

 

[DarkGemini24601]

Twinkling Aurora - Atka Ipiktok

Nunavut, Canada, North of the Arctic Circle
Midday of December 1st, 2007

The two Inuit hunters sat by the hole they had cut in the ice. Their parkas were wrapped tightly to keep out the cold. They waited patiently as they were taught for a seal to show. Despite that, they spoke quietly, needing something to pass the time.

“I heard you caught one of these with Isitoq. Not bad,” Atka stated with a smile.

“He did most of the work…” Kataktaq replied humbly. “I just finished it off.”

Atka pushed Kataktaq lightly with her gloved hands, shaking her head. “That’s still an accomplishment, though! Don’t be so modest.”

“Yeah…but you’re the one they call ‘amaruq tuurngaq’, and you’ve hunted more things than I have,” Kataktaq protested.

“Well, it’s not entirely fair. I can speak to animals, after all,” Atka responded.

Kataktaq nodded, and silence descended again. The sun didn’t stay on the horizon long, and darkness swallowed the northern world. “Come on, let’s head back,” Atka suggested.

The two hunters trekked back to the village, which was now composed of a series of igloos with warm blankets and furs in the interior. They went to the interior of the camp, where a fire had been set up, sheltered by a large tent made of hides. The rest of the village was waiting there with dinner.

“No luck?” a 6-year-old girl asked.

“Sorry, Buniq. Couldn’t get you any seal,” Atka replied sullenly, sitting down by the fire and sighing in relief to be warm again.

“We are all here, at least,” Ipiktok said, smiling at his daughter. Next to him sat Nouja and Atka’s younger sister Nouja, who was 5 at the time.

Atka laid back, looking up at the Aurora Borealis in the sky. Katatkaq did likewise, the light being welcome in a land otherwise shrouded in extended night.

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
Night of June 16th, 2018

A knock came on Kataktaq’s door. The former abductee turned to the other side of his bed, away from it. “Leave me be…I don’t really care who it..”

“It’s Atka,” came a gentle reply.

“…” Kataktaq got up slowly, and pulled the door open hesitantly. “You…s-sure you want to see me?”

Atka looked up at her old friend, who did not look too different outwardly, if a little older. “I don’t see why not. We’re friends, aren’t we?”

Kataktaq nodded slowly. “…alright…I just…”

“What did they do to you?” Atka asked gently.

Kataktaq looked down. “N-nothing as bad as what they did to those…copies they made of Buniq and Isiotq after they…k-killed them. They enhanced my strength…and removed things they saw as unnecessary…including my digestive system. I have to eat some ‘nutrient paste’ now…”

“Well, you’re alive. I’m grateful for that,” Atka responded, though her expression was one of sympathy. “Mind coming somewhere with me?”

“Where is that?” Kataktaq asked.

“You’ll see. Come on,” Atka replied, and started walking. She lead a semi-willing Kataktaq to the elevator, and traveled up to the surface with him, making sure both of them had parkas. Once there, she laid out on the ground to look up at the Aurora Borealis in the sky. “Beautiful, isn’t it?”

Kataktaq laid down beside her, his anxiety washing away as he stared up at the beautiful green patterns etched in the heavens. “Yeah…they are…”

“I remember that some people used to call them evil spirits that would steal your breath if you were disrespectful…but I think they’re more of guardian spirits than anything,” Atka mused quietly.

“Like you?” Kataktaq said, smiling slightly. “You go around protecting the whole world, like the Aurora that’s everywhere in the far north.”

Atka smiled as well, looking over. “I suppose that’s true, my friend…”

“Just friends?” Kataktaq asked, and then grimaced, immediately regretting what he had just said.

Atka shook her head. “After four years…I’m still not sure. Kinda sad, I guess…but you’re still an ass,” she added with a grin. “I have enough to think about with death around every corner and an Asian woman that…”

“An Asian woman that what now?” Kataktaq asked with an eyebrow raised.

“…forget I said anything…”

Kataktaq rubbed the back of his neck nervously. “I mean…you’re can’t just say something like that and leave me wondering…”

Atka sighed. “A friend of mine that I really care about is interested in me romantically…but…I don’t think I feel that way, and I’m not sure what to tell her…”

“…t-that…does sound tough. Well…if you’re going to make her feel better, tell her the honest truth. No sense in making her wait for a long time…”

Atka glared at Kataktaq. “I get it. Look, Kataktaq…this isn’t really the time for me to be thinking about something like that. You know that.”

Kataktaq nodded. “I was mostly kidding, anyway. It’s not like I am obsessing about your indecision…there’s always Nouja…”

Atka got up and grabbed Kataktaq by the collar, making the typically timid hunter even more so. “K-kidding! I swear! I wouldn’t…not without…”

“Not period,” Atka said with a shake of her head, letting him go. “Honestly…”

Kataktaq smiled slightly, though turned away so Atka couldn’t see it. He was glad to see her in high spirits…and he was now, as well. The hunter glanced up at the Aurora Borealis again. “Guardian spirits…huh…”

 

[MarineAvenger]

Foggy Realities Part 1 (MarineAvenger and DarkGemini42601)

A voice rang in Desmond’s head, interrupting his sleep. Mr. Walker. I would ask you if you were awake, but doing so would infer you already are due to my prodding, Avanix mused.

He sat up and laid against the wall of his bunk. I have gotten used to it Avanix, you can put her through.

Understood.

When Desmond closed his eyes, the ‘starscape’ environment once again shaped itself in his mind. Standing on the other end of the walkable area, wearing orange pajamas with the fruit of the same name on them, was Elene Exalt. As always, she had her rather-dejected look.

“Good evening Elene, nice choice of attire for a meeting.” He looked around the ‘starscape’ still let down by the fact it was so bland, but it is to be expected of psionic powers.

“Well, it is night over here as well,” Subject Negative Zero replied. “You and Vee...and Markus, too…” she muttered.

Desmond stared at the unusual girl and couldn’t help but feel sorry for her lack of understanding. “At any rate, I haven’t heard from you in a while. Things have been hectic on my end, as I no doubt think you know why?”

“Not so long ago India’s borders opened up again. XCOM had a role in that, I assume,” Elene responded. “As for me...several developments are underway.”

“What sort of developments? You aren’t going too crazy are you? I would hate for you to accidently bring an end to the world…” He said joking half heartedly, not really caring if he sounded stupid.

Elene raised an eyebrow. “Firstly, Viktor did something uncharacteristic. He hired a scientist named Markus Grathem...who seems to be fairly neutral, but I do not risk entrusting him with sensitive information.” Elene blinked. “He has dog biscuits that are edible by humans. The man is...a bit odd.”

He looked his friend up and down and crossed his arms raising an eyebrow. “Really?”

“To both of the strange occurrences, yes,” Elene replied. “Secondly, I have acquired two new means of troop production for myself alone, and with it, more opportunities to gather resources. The first is a male clone line, dubbed the Adam Project. The template is a mercenary named Nicholas Jimenez, whom Emma has persuaded to help us. With money, of course...and he seeks revenge on some woman who once called herself Andrea Mina...though that was only an alias.”

“Well gathering troops is a start I guess, though of this hiring of a mercenary...he was seriously your best option? I just don’t trust people like that.” Though I am probably no different, he thought to himself.

“He is a good physical and tactical candidate. And one that I could acquire fairly undetected,” Subject -0 answered. “As for the other combat-oriented project, I have dubbed it Project Legion. So far, I have sixteen humanoid automatons built, which will serve as robotic troopers.”

“That is all well and good but where are you keeping these? I don’t imagine Viktor gave you a broom closet to house you army of assassin droids.”

“Where but the place that houses some of the best engineers in the world? Cross Technologies agreed to produce them for me, in exchange for a cut of the models and the all the technical specifications, as well as insight into my other research,” Elene explained.

Desmond thought for a moment, prospecting the idea of having a robot companion. “Just as long as you can trust Mr. Cross. I have the support of his daughter if that helps any but it might be weird asking for a favor out of the blue, but just something to keep in mind.” He sat down crossing his legs, moving his hand through the fog that was everywhere.

“I believe I can,” Elene responded. “Though I am always cautious. Trust can be a fleeting thing, and is not an absolute. What has XCOM been doing? What did they do to free India from the extraterrestrials’ control?”

“We assaulted the alien’s main operating base, though from the reports it is hard to believe that was the only pocket of troops they had, I can’t imagine the war ending anytime soon. As for tech, we recovered a whole bunch of alien materials and machinery that needs to be researched. Engineering is working on something big though there are just rumors going around right now. As for me...well psionic work is slow but it will pick up soon.”

“Did you find any evidence of what they had been doing with the people they abduct?” the scientist inquired.

Desmond wondered to himself on how to respond, but decided she didn’t need to be deceived. “I am seeing all sorts of people who we liberated. They were manipulated to be like the aliens and some of them were changed very drastically, there were even some psion potentials.” he let out the last part in a hushed tone and he looked down, his powers seeming less and less special as they discovered more potentials.

Elene frowned. “Interesting...though I have yet to find a reliable way to test myself and my Handmaidens for that potential. If even one of us possessed it and could develop it... I would have a valuable surprise weapon to use against Viktor in the future…” Elene finished, clenching a fist at the thought of her vengeance.

He gave his friend a look of concern. “Keep yourself calm Elene. Your greatest asset is Viktor’s feeling of superiority. Though considering there are no accounts of Lusett having abilities I think it is safe to assume that her clones don’t have the abilities, and from being around Eva, I have not detected anything off her so far but that could change. Not to mention he is the reason I have my psionics.”

“I have my doubts that they are entirely hereditary,” the scientist countered. “It may play a role, but it is equally possible it has to do with certain parts of the brain. From Sectoid dissection, it appears they have implants to improve upon their abilities.”

“You never know I guess, I don’t really have much access to records that I don’t need to see.” Desmond flexed his fingers and he stood up. “There is a question that has been bugging me Elene and I want to know where you stand on it.”

“And what might that be?” the Exalt heiress intoned.

“Elene, do you trust me?” Desmond put out the question with a large amount of seriousness behind it and he glared at the heiress.

 

[DarkGemini24601]

DarkGemini24601 and MarineAvenger: "Foggy Reality, Part 2"

“Trust you in what regard?” Subject Negative Zero asked flatly.

“In every aspect of the word. You said before that trust was a hard thing to come by so I want to know where you stand with me.” His eyes never wavered and he stood firm.

“I trust you more than anyone, save for my Handmaidens, of course, and Avanix,” Elene answered. “You are no ally of Viktor, serve as my informant within XCOM, and are a friend. That said, I do not trust anyone completely. To do so invites betrayal. It would be illogical to put absolute faith in another human being.”

“You say that but do you really believe it? Is this you talking or the fact that who came before you was betrayed?”

“That is my conclusion,” Elene replied. “My mother knew very well that Viktor could betray her, though she was trapped in a situation from which there was no escape. I just know that humans are not to be completely trusted. And faith is not something I can comprehend.”

“Yet we are human aren’t we in a way...do you resent me for being Viktor’s clone? I would have assumed you would have wanted nothing to do with me yet here we are. You took a leap with me and yet you don’t seem entirely...thrilled I should say with the prospect of what it takes to be human.”

“I do not resent you. That would be illogical, considering you are not related in any way other than genetics,” Elene said. “And is it required to live foolishly to be human? I would think that many scientists would share my opinion on trust…”

“What of this Markus guy you told me about? You said you don’t trust him but is it at all possible that he trusts you? He must of found out about Viktor’s personality and that alone can ensue the prospect of trust. I know a certain...scientist who happens to be a friend of someone close to me and at first she wanted to do something halfway between strangling me to punching me, and now she seems friendly enough to me.”

“Perhaps he does,” the heiress answered. “But if he trusts me completely, he is making a mistake. His loyalties are somewhat divided, and should he become a threat for any reason...I would do what I would have to.”

“What if it was me? What would you do then, and don’t say it is an illogical situation as you saying illogical pisses me off slightly…”

“Apologies,” Elene responded. “If you were a threat to my life, or the lives of my sisters...I would do what I must. Is that...unfair of me?”

“No, but what makes you so sure you would be able to if the time arouse? If you have the willingness to raise a gun you better have the nerve to be able to pull the trigger.” He said it in a calm voice that gave no hint of a threat. “Having someone to help you along isn’t a bad thing Elene. Trust is something that takes time, though if you can’t rely on someone you trust wholly…” He stopped wondering if he was going to be a bit too harsh. “You might as well be sharing the same fate as the person you were cloned from.”

Elene was silent for a moment. “Are you implying...that Lusett Exalt...deserved to die?” she asked quietly, her hands shaking slightly.

“Deserved to die...no. No one deserves to have their lives taken from them. Was it for the better she did die...in my opinion that is coming to be the truth.”

“You say this...of a woman that advanced technology far beyond what it was before. That created your holographic technology, that was working on a cure for cancer...whose research might allow me to repair Ammelia’s eyes?” Elene’s eyes burned with restrained fury. “And you are incorrect on saying that no one deserves to die. Viktor Dorian deserves to have his heart gouged out with a knife…”

Desmond didn’t show his disappointment but it was there all the same. “Even though his actions were...deplorable to say the least and though I would have wholeheartedly agreed with you a couple of months ago…but the fact that you have taken a human life is not a responsibility easily shrugged off Elene.”
He closed his eyes and prepared for what he was going to say. “Elene, you don’t know have any clue as to what your mother did to me do you?”

“What in particular would you be referring to?” Elene responded, her ire not dimming. Avanix was oddly silent.

“Do you know I spent three years in a mountain enclave in Japan? I was sent there on the behest of Lusett to become a warrior. For three years I survived in a harsh environment and endured training not for many people...even killed for the first time. Even though I am who I am because of that experience it doesn’t change the fact that she sent me there against my will. Not everyone is the saint you think they are Elene, not even Lusett.”

“That is exactly like Viktor and everything he has done and is doing,” Elene replied. “That was sarcasm, 42. I believe it is used to convey distaste, correct?” Her expression darkened further. “That changes nothing in my mind. I never implied she was perfect, but there are people that deserve to die in this world. To believe otherwise is to be just as foolish as those that trust others completely. And I will not lead that path that leads to death. If you want to make friends with Viktor, you can do it on your own. He will die by my hand. I have no doubt in that outcome.”

“If that is what you truly believe, I will not stop you. I just hope that you will have the will to survive the ordeal...now if that is all I request to leave.”

Elene turned around. “If you continue to follow that line of thinking...you will…” her voice caught. “You will meet an unsavory end, I fear. I...hope...you reconsider such idealistic thinking. It has no basis in reality. That is all, Desmond.” Elene dispersed in a flurry of starlight, and the ‘starscape’ ceased to be.

 

[Frostlich1228]

Beyond Appearance

This post is a collaboration between Frostlich1228 and DarkGemini24601

Buniq sat in the wide waiting room of the medical ward. She was glad that no one else appeared to be in the room, though the hybrid's eyes darted towards the door every so often, even at the slightest imagined sound. Even though she knew Isitoq was nearby, the clone was still nervous, and hid her face behind a magazine that she wasn't really reading. Ammelia walked into the waiting room, her crutches held under her arms while exchanging a few words with the nurse at the front desk. Ammy smiled and sat down a few seats away from Buniq, leaning her crutches against the wall to the side of the chair.

The half-chryssalid hybrid used the magazine to shield her face, only looking over once or twice. She opened her mouth to say 'Hello', but then did not follow up.

Ammelia looked over to her and smiled, "Hello, how are you?"

"U-uh..." Buniq looked down for a moment, awkwardly holding the magazine between her and Ammelia. "O-okay...I g-guess..."

"What's wrong? You don't need to be shy." Ammelia said lightheartedly.

"Y-you wouldn't...s-say that if you s-saw m-me..." Buniq protested "I-I can't e-expect everyone to be n-nice..."

"Saw you? what do you mean?" Ammelia asked, trying to see around the magazine.

Buniq seemed to retreat further under it. "I-I'm n-not f-fully h-human..." she tried to explain.

"Are you... You're one of those civilians we saved from the Alien Base, aren't you?" Ammelia replied with a curious tone.

"Y-yeah..." Buniq said quietly. "M-my name is B-Buniq..."

"It's okay... You don't need to hide from me, I won't judge you... I can barely see any details anyway..." Ammy said softly.

"W-what do you mean?" Buniq asked, slowly lowering her magazine, revealing her face and the one eye that wasn't hidden by violet hair with black splotches.

"I was born Blind and I need a special device to see, but it's still a prototype and not very good with details. So you just look like a normal girl to me." Ammy answered, looking into her eyes.

Buniq looked at her, only unbelieving for a moment before she realized Ammelia's story was not as incredulous as her's was. "I-I see..." the clone replied, unsure of what else to say to that.

"Don't let anyone put you down, okay? It doesn't matter what you look like as long as you're beautiful on the inside." She replied, moving herself a seat closer.

"M-maybe I am...i-it's hard being a person who o-only came i-into exi-existence a few days ago," Buniq continued. "T-though I'm glad s-so many p-people support m-me here. I was e-expecting more f-fear."

"Well, I'm not afraid of you, all I see a poor girl who was put through a terrible ordeal." The blond said comfortingly.

Buniq smiled slightly, her yellow eyes lighting up. "W-what's your n-name? I f-forgot to a-ask..."

"I'm Ammelia, It's really nice to meet you." She responded.

"I-it's nice to m-meet you too, A-Ammelia," Buniq responded. "W-why are you d-down here? Are you a d-doctor?"

"I'm a soldier actually, I was injured a few missions ago a needed to have some major surgery done. They want me to come by every few days to make sure that there are no new problems." She answered.

"O-oh..." Buniq's expression fell. "Y-you s-seem to have a r-really hard l-life..."

Ammelia sighed sadly, "Fate just keeps dealing me bad hands... The world is cruel, punishing people that don't deserve it. People like you and me... You were born into the hands of those monsters, I was born Blind and Mute. You didn't do anything to deserve what they did to you... It's not fair..."

"I-I guess it isn't..." Buniq said quietly. "T-though there isn't a-anything we can really d-do about it. A-Atka just told me to be m-myself, and f-figure out what that m-means on my own t-terms."

" I guess that's all we can do. We need friends to be there for us when life beats us down. I'll be there for you if you'll be there for me, what do you say?" Ammelia's smiled returned.

"I-I t-think I c-can do t-that..." Buniq replied, seeming happy with Ammelia's kindness but also uncomfortable as she always seemed to be.

"What about you? May I ask why you're here?" Ammy said, not wanting to make her answer something she didn't want to.

"T-they were going to help a-adjust a p-part of me that wa-wasn't finished..." Buniq said, nervous to give further details.

"That's alright, I understand you don't want to tell me everything so I won't pry any further." Ammelia replied in a considerate voice.

"T-thank you..." Buniq replied. "I-it would j-just scare you, a-anyway..."

"I don't think it would scare me, but you can show me when you're ready. Does that sound good?" Ammelia asked.

"O-okay..." Buniq said carefully. "I-it might be b-better if I did a-afterwards anyway. I-if you w-want to t-talk again, I w-would be in the h-olo-room or the c-civilian quarters..."

The nurse behind Ammelia waves Buniq over. " It's been wonderful talking to you Buniq, I'd love to see you again soon if that's alright."

Buniq nodded quickly. "O-of course! I-I'll see you later." The hybrid got up and followed the nurse anxiously, disappearing behind a set of doors.

Ammelia sat and waited for her name to be called, but she couldn't help but think of that shy girl and everything she had gone through on that ship. She needed someone to help her trust again, and Ammy wanted to be the one to help her.

 

[BMPixy]

BMPixy & DarkGemini24601
XCOM Headquarters
Bravado: Part One

Albert steadied his breath, waiting for the right moment to turn the corner and face another Thin Man. A quick look saw that the only ones present were the two security guards, and from what he knew they wouldn’t mind if he went inside to ask it a couple questions.

Of course, despite that knowledge, his heart was still beating a bit faster than he’d like. Well, here goes everything… he thought, and pushed off from the wall. He stepped up to the guards, his co-workers now, and flashed his pass.

“Reason for entering… Foulke?” the man on the left said as he examined Albert’s pass.

“Just want to ask the captive a couple things. Nothing important,” Albert replied with a shrug.

“Right, the captive isn’t involved with an interrogation right now, so make it quick,” the guard said, and motioned for Albert to step inside.

“Thanks, I owe you both one,” Albert called out as he passed into the facility.

Despite his currently haggard appearance, Samuel Wilson looked down at the man walking in, quickly composing his smug expression of superiority. “They do not seem to know when to quit, do they?” he said aloud, as if Albert was too inferior to speak directly to.

“Oh can it you damn x-ray spook,” Albert shot back, “I’m here on my own business, and it’s not like you’re in a position to get out of answering my questions.” Slowly Albert sealed the door behind him, and began sauntering his way towards the captive Thin Man.

“Oh, I am terrified,” Samuel replied sarcastically. “So what irrelevant things do you plan on asking me? I doubt they are worth my time, but please...entertain me, at the very least.”

“Oh, don’t worry, I won’t be taking up too much of our guest’s time. In fact, I think you might enjoy the subject of this conversation,” Albert said playfully, before hardening his expression considerably. “It’s the people you’ve killed, and how well you remember them.”

“I’m sure my memory is far better than yours, human,” Samuel replied, and grinned. “What, do you think I killed someone important to you? Hmm...mate, offspring, someone related by family ties?”

“All depends on whether you recognize the man in this photo,” Albert said nonchalantly, as he fished through his wallet for a crumpled photo. Pulling it out, he showed it to Samuel. “Do you know him?”

Of course not, do you think I am a footsoldier? However...since I’m going to die anyway, let’s have some fun… “Oh, that one. I remember him...of the many I have killed, I must admit...he was one of the most pathetic. I think I saw some tears before I dealt the killing blow,” Samuel said snidely.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, Albert started laughing. Pausing in his revelry, he said, “Oh please, like you’re going to get away with that. Richie was shot in the head. No other wounds, died instantly. Tell me, how could he have cried?” The security guard sighed with amusement.

Samuel tapped his chin thoughtfully. “Hm. I guess you aren’t as stupid as I thought you were. Congratulations. Yes, he was shot in the head without a chance. Though the expression dead humans show...the hollowness in their eyes...that helped me remember his face.”

Albert immediately sobered in response. “You really think so? You really want me to believe that the creature who took my brother from me is standing right in front of me? Then I only have one question to ask you now.” Albert rubbed his upper lip, thinking on how he should phrase the next question. “What was the weapon you did it with? Hell, I’ll even settle for the size of the round you used.”

Samuel looked up, as if he didn’t even hear Albert. “Though I suppose the head wasn’t in perfect condition, after all…” he looked back down at Albert. What operation is he referring to...if they were using ballistics...Syria? That was fairly early on... “After I ended his rather meaningless life with a 7.62×39mm bullet, I believe is what humans would refer to those as. And the weapon was of Russian design...though I prefer more...effective things than that.”

Where once a look of confidence was splayed across Albert’s face, there was now only shock and outrage. “Y-you…” he stammered through gritted teeth. “You were the one, huh? Well, I guess I get to let Dante, or whatever its calling itself now, off the hook. No need for him when I’ve got the very one responsible in front of me!”

Samuel yawned. “Oh, what are you blabbering about now? You are rather inconsistent...and that got boring after a few minutes.”

“Oh please, spare me the bored look, x-ray,” Albert shot back venomously. “If you wanted to be entertained, you’ve always got those nice techno-things there to strip the information from your brain. Bet a monster like you gets off on that kinda stuff.”

Truth be told, thank you for entertaining me in the end, dancing in the palm of my hand for me. “Allow me to give you a friendly piece of advice human, something I usually don’t waste my time with on your species. You need to understand your place. Do you know why I don’t care about your suffering, why I show no remorse for what I have done in battle or to those captives? Because you are, to me and my masters, what sheep are to humans. You’re animals. And if you think you stand a chance against your fate...you couldn’t be more wrong. You think that bulbous-headed coward you captured is the best we have?” Samuel’s grin widened to a point where it seemed unnatural. “That’s only scratching the surface of the power that has been achieved.”

“And yet, despite you calling us animals, you’re the one in the pen,” Albert snarked, “Your base is in ruins, we’ve got two of your senior officers ready to have everything you know ripped from your mind, and we have our own psions! Do you think you know our fate? Well we challenge our fate! And that’s the one thing you x-rays probably will never understand, even when you are crushed under our boot like the ants you are.”

It was Samuel’s turn to laugh. “Oh dear...I wasn’t aware that optimism like that existed outside of some of your literature.” A dangerous fire dwelled in the Thin Man’s eyes. “Yes, the loss of that base was unfortunate...as were the psions. I certainly doubt it will cripple us...and although my life is forfeit…” Samuel grew serious. “...how long do you think it will be before my masters decide to put their vast resources towards figuring out what annoyance removed their Indian base?”

Samuel grinned deviously. “And...why the security guard outfit? Was being a soldier too hard for you? And this is the man that tells me his people are capable of defeating a superior enemy...one that is too cowardly to fight anymore. You might be worse than the creatures you humans call ‘Sectoids’ in that regard.”

Albert clenched his fists in anger. “Simple, I was too weak in the mind for frontline duty now that there’s psions on the field. Nothing to be ashamed of, in my opinion,” he spat, “And might I ask, if your masters are so powerful, why is this war still raging? Why did you not just end us in a single stroke?”

“Simple,” Samuel echoed. “We didn’t even give you much thought until now...but I’m sure with the loss of the base your time is soon to be up. You think you are fighting a war, human? You’re pests...more of a doomed resistance than a war. And you’ll be one of the last to die, hiding in a corner while your friends lie on the battlefield dead or dying.”

Albert dramatically swung his arm to the side, then pointed a meaty finger at Samuel, “I’d rather die hiding, then become what you and your kind have become: slaves in service to mad-men, having what made them unique turned into what stands before me.”

“‘I’d rather die than become like you’, hm? Well, for those who have a deathwish, that can be granted. My only regret is that I can’t give that as my final report. ‘The humans may have potential with the gift, but considering their insanity...or perhaps unique stupidity, they aren’t worth going after.’ Oh well. They’ll figure that out on their own, I suppose. And there are at least a few that might make this venture worth it...I’m sure my masters have wonderful things in mind for that female...what was her name, Atka, I believe I heard? She might be the only one that’s something more than a primitive animal...”

“Y’know, every time you call us animals, I have to remind myself that you’re the one in the cage. We’re the ones sticking foreign objects up your anus, like we so often portray those like you doing to us. Besides, what use is going on about what you and your masters are going to do when you win, when we’re the ones who are gonna kick your arses back to whatever gods you believe in, with a note saying ‘you’re next’.” Albert smirked, “In fact, I’m willing to say within two years that we’ll have won. Do you have that measure of confidence, eh?”

“It really is war this, war that with you,” Samuel said tiredly. “Like I said, we could end your species if we want to. There is no ‘war’, just a struggle against the designs of my masters. If you would realize that you would understand the futility. However, seeing as you are not smart enough to make that realization...I shall let you keep that blissful ignorance.”

The Thin Man turned around. “You’ll join your brother soon in oblivion, I have no doubt. Just don’t be surprised when, if I’m still alive, I say a certain phrase you humans are fond of. Oh, what was it… ‘I told you so’.”

Albert shot back, “You call me stupid all you want. Go ahead, after all, you’re the one who took the brains of the family. Unfortunately, all that leaves is the guts. Now, if you’ll excuse me Sam, I have a shift to catch. I won’t be seeing you around.” Albert turned and opened the door, and exited the containment facility, a grim expression on his face as he walked down the halls.