RP XCOM: The Story of Defiance.

[DarkGemini24601]

BMPixy and DarkGemini24601: “Reviving Memory, Part 1”

XCOM Headquarters, Somewhere in Siberia
1530 Hours, October 9th, 2018
Medical Ward

Albert glanced up at the clock brazenly emplaced across from his bed, the device idly ticking away the slow minutes. The soldier quietly raged at the time-keeper for so painstakingly ensuring that time kept its lethargic pace. A yawn threatened to escape from Albert’s lips, but he suppressed it. No, no need for sleep, he thought to himself as the minute hand ticked forward. Had enough of whatever horrors lie in the dark for a lifetime. As if in answer to some silent prayer of Albert’s, a gentle knock echoed forth from the door.

“Door’s open,” the Amero-Anglican called out to whoever was outside. Pro’lly some nurse, it is almost dinner time.

The person that walked in was most definitely not a nurse, but rather a familiar Russian wearing a black ushanka. “How have you been holding up?” Modya asked, his ever-present accent affecting the words.

“Fairly well for getting bitch-slapped by a Gundam, my husky Ruskie friend,” Albert replied. With a gesture towards the chair on his left, he added, “Come, sit.”

Modya complied, and mentioned, “We had two of those MECs in the hangar, though it sounds like they were designed for offense rather than iron defense.”

“Aye, fighting that thing... it was like trying to fight a mountain.” With a slight shrug, Albert continued, “Of course, enough explosives seem to do the trick when fighting mountains or MECs. Perhaps I might file a transfer request and become a rocketeer.”

“We cannot have you steal our thunder,” Modya replied with a bemused expression. “Besides, we tend to fire from a distance rather than become the bomb ourselves.”

Albert chuckled and responded, “Eh, not the first time I’ve had to call danger close. First time I was the danger close, of course, but I doubt we have many people who deliberately run at the enemy and drop unprimed explosives at their feet.”

Modya nodded. And now for the real reason I came here… Modya, you’re a bastard for doing this, he chided himself. “Albert, there is something I figured I ought to tell you, rather than wait for you to find out on your own.”

Still retaining his amused expression, Albert replied, “Ah, there are revelations to be had here today, eh? Well c’mon, spill the beans.” To punctuate the phrase, Albert waved his still functional left arm, beckoning the Russian to hurry up.

Modya eyed the former boxer’s arm cautiously, and said, “Well… we decided on this awhile ago, but it turns out uncontrollable events caused it to happen anyway…” The Russian adjusted his hat, glancing slightly away from Albert without keeping the cautious eye on his arm. “...Jessica...Jessica is pregnant.”

The mirth visibly drained from the Amero-Anglican’s face, as he came to terms with what was just said. He steadied himself with a deep breath, and instead, visibly pained, said, “Well then… congratulations.” Albert rested his hand on Modya’s shoulder, as the wounded soldier forced a small smile.

The rocketeer sighed. “You owe me an explanation of why this was bothering you, at least.”

“Of course, of course,” the infantry replied nonchalantly. “But, first…” The left hand retracted from the Russian’s shoulder, and instead flashed forward, embedding itself in Modya’s jaw.

Modya fell back, toppling out of the chair. Only after a few seconds did he pull himself up. Whoever put that chair on that side of the… and where does he get the energy to do that?! “If you weren’t injured…” the Russian muttered.

“Back in my boxing days, I had many epithets,” Albert said, “The Californian Crusher, the Invincible Immigrant, the Rolling Thunder. My personal favorite was always Breakback Mountain, after an incident where I accidently dislocated one of my opponent’s spinal discs, in combination with certain... rumours. Good times…” Shaking his head to remove the nostalgic look upon his face, he said, “And then my father died. Kinda put a whole damper on the thing, but I continued to box. But what happened in those three years after he passed, I was just sixteen at the time by the way, it would probably be counted as the worst three years of my life. So, then I start thinking to myself, ‘Hey Al, you’re in a dangerous career where death could come at any moment. Perhaps it’d be best if you don’t go having kids, so they don’t have to go through what you did, or worse.’ Sound logic, right?”

Modya nodded. “I do not disagree with you…” He fixed the chair, and sat back down, rubbing his jaw. “It’s different for Jessie though. She told me that if something were to happen to me, she would at least want something from me to remain in the world. That is why I agreed to it… though we could not have known that the aftereffects of her MELD infusion had already decided for us.”

“Then you could have just stuck some of your material in cold storage and use that if you bite it,” Albert stated as if he was explaining the obvious. “But, I suppose it was a moot point, what with the stupid science fiction shit happening. Fucking aliens...” Albert trailed off, letting out short sigh.

“Besides, it’s not like Sasha and Mikhail wouldn’t have two different families that could take care of them if something happened to me,” Modya continued. “Not that I have any plans to die out there.”

The Amero-Anglican’s head snapped around to face Modya once more. “T-there’s two of them!?” he exclaimed, reeling back slightly. The left hand began slide back, but Albert managed to restrain himself before anything untoward happened again. “Right, right, science fiction shit, of course it’s gonna be twins,” he explained to himself, rubbing his forehead. “But at least you have a back-up plan in case your first one doesn’t work out. No plan survives contact with the enemy and all that, as morbid as that sounds saying it in this context.”

“So far we haven’t lost any rocketeers recently,” Modya stated, watching Albert’s fist like a nervous hawk. “I’d like to think that we’re getting better, though the Ethereal missions…” the Russian trailed off, shaking his head.

Albert grimaced at the mention. “No need to remind me… had the Ethereals signed the Geneva Conventions I’d probably be sitting in a cell for the gambit I pulled, even if it was to ensure that at least some of us made it out alive.” The infantry shook his head, the faces of the deceased flashing briefly in his mind. “Too damn many I’ve lost.”

Modya was silent for a moment. “I am not one to judge you, since I am no expert in command whatsoever.”

“Seventy-three,” Albert stated grimly. “That’s the magic number of people I’ve lost under my command. I mean, casualties are inevitable when you’re dealing with a company sized force and performing offensive actions in hostile terrain, but that’s no comfort. Probably why I haven’t been bumped up into the officer ranks as of yet, after all you don’t want someone with that kind of record in charge of operations.”

Modya seemed pensive for a moment. “Have you thought about leaving? I cannot imagine still fighting after all of that. Some losses, maybe, but that many tends to break a man’s spirit.”

Albert snorted. “Funnily enough, the British Army took your logic and ran with it. I was honorably discharged after the operation that had my brother and thirty-five other soldiers die, due to a combination of the enemy being more entrenched than expected and those damn four Thin Men. Then XCOM comes rolling up, and, well, we need every soldier we can get here. Can’t go quitting when I can still fight.”

Modya shook his head. “You’re lucky you did not end up with a mechanical limb or two after that stunt.”

 

[BMPixy]

"Reviving Memory, Part Two"

Albert nodded slowly, gazing out into space. “Aye. Lucky seems to define my entire life. Lucky that MEC didn’t kill me, lucky Avy fell for my stunt, lucky XCOM decided to pick me up, and a half a hundred other things. And then that luck needs to come from somewhere else, so people bite it. A sickening payment scheme, but one I have come to rely upon.”

The Russian sighed. “I will just be glad when this is all over. We are getting close. Even with casualties, we are close to taking out their Overseers. And then that ‘Honored Overseer’ Buniq told us about.”

“And then what if that isn’t the extent of their command scheme, and they decide to check in on why communications from this system have stopped?” Albert asked. “We’ll probably be forced to become an interstellar power if we truly want to win this war, or find some way to make peace before they turn their full might upon us.”

“I do remember hearing a little bit of what she said through other sources. Something about a “Creator of the Path”, and the Honored Overseer talked like he knew the guy personally.” Modya shrugged. “So that means we might be dealing with their second, and if we kill him that is bound to draw their leader to investigate. Then we blow him out of the sky too.”

“Could be, could be,” the Infantry replied meagerly, unable to think of an argument in response. There was a moment of silence between the two, before Albert continued, “I’ve had a lot of time to think down here, as you can expect. And, frankly, the one conclusion I’ve come to is that…” He paused for a second, before shaking his head dismissively. “Never mind, you don’t need to hear any more of my bemoaning of my fate.”

“You cannot exactly leave me hanging like that,” Modya replied. “You owe me for that punch, anyway.”

“That was your payment for fucking up, literally,” Albert shot back. With a sigh, he added, “I’ve just been thinking, and realized that… I’m pro’lly just as bad as the aliens. I mean, yeah, I put on this air of being an affable guy, but dammit, I’ve done some dark shit over the years. Probably the kind of stuff that would either cause an Ethereal to recoil in disgust or welcome me with open arms as one of their own.”

“Well, I would not know personally. Between most of that being in the past, and the covert operations not being broadcasted like normal missions,” Modya responded. “But the best thing you can do is keep moving forward, right? That is all we can do.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought too,” Foulke said. “But some point over the last few days I realized that it wasn’t moving forward, it was running. And now I can’t get a damn good night’s sleep, because that’s the only place where the past can catch me. But of course it’s gonna haunt me, I fucking killed a guy in cold blood on that oper-” Albert suddenly cut himself off, realizing what he had just let slip.

Modya paled slightly, though he tried to hide his surprise. “I...you what?”

All Albert could do in response was mutter a curse. Taking a moment to collect himself, he said, “Right, now that I’ve told you that, you gotta keep that quiet. If I can get your word on that, I’ll tell you what happened, alright?”

Modya shifted uneasily. “That depends on the circumstances…”

“Well then, we have ourselves a conundrum here,” Albert replied. “You can’t hear the circumstances unless you give your word, but you won’t give it without the circumstances. Still, you’re the one with the cards to play against me, so I’m the one who has to give in.” Taking a deep breath, Albert leaned back, and steeled himself for the explanation. “It was the second day in LA. The previous night I ran a raid on EXALT’s former base, but they had skedaddled. However, I had managed to capture a civvie working for them, and me and Sarita were going to interrogate him. Poor guy wasn’t prepared to be beaten bloody, dragged off, and left in a room full of power tools overnight, so he cracked pretty easily. Said the only reason that he was working for EXALT was because they offered to ‘protect’ his family. He asked for their protection in exchange for the info. Naturally, I said yes.”

Rubbing his hand over his forehead, Albert continued, “He spills the beans. Where they’re located, the fact that most of the agents were temporarily in hiding after the scramble order, whole enchilada. Meanwhile, the whole time, I’m thinking to myself, ‘How am I gonna dispose of him? How am I going to make sure he doesn’t backstab us?’ I mean, the kid, Zeke, in that moment, he looked as if he trusted me more than God himself in that moment.” The hand slid down to cover Albert’s eyes, to hide the welling of tears from Modya. “And do you know what I did to him?”

The Russian looked away, simply letting Albert continue for now.

“I pulled my gun, leveled it, and then told him I l-lied about protecting his family. Then I emptied the magazine.” Individual tears slipped down from under Albert’s concealing hand, as he dredged up the painful memories.

“W...why?” Modya asked quietly. “You could have just… kept him there, or sent him off somewhere. God knows the Council have places to keep those sort of people quiet.”

“Fuck if I know. It w-was all just i-instinct, it was natural,” the Amero-Anglican replied, a slight stutter creeping into his voice. “Just some p-part of me told me to shoot him, a-and I did.”

And why did you throw him into the depths of despair before killing him? There’s something else I don’t know here… Modya kept the burning question to himself, though. “Albert...I...I will keep this between the two of us, but I cannot be asked to like it. Normally something like that… calls for justice to answer. But… in the name of our friendship, I will not betray you.”

“Y-you’re a good man, Modya,” Albert replied, “B-better than me. Just you take of Jessica and those kids of yours. Keep ‘em close, and make sure the little ones grow up like you. Need more people l-like you.”

Modya nodded slightly, getting up from his chair. I just hope I don’t regret this decision. The Russian silently left the room, leaving Albert with his thoughts.

Once more, Albert glanced up at the clock across from him. With a gentle sigh, Albert rolled over in his bed, and decided that it’d probably be for the best if he got some sleep. However, before he let himself into the land of dreams, Foulke said one last thing to break the silence.

“I’m fucked up…”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Frostlich1228 & ZombieSplitter53
“Mary Thomas, Super Sleuth: Part One”

X-COM Headquarters
Soldier Barracks, Room of Mary Thomas
Oct. 10th, 0900 Hours

Mary stood in her room, holding a shirt in both her hands. She turned her head towards the first one, a salmon pink T-shirt with a large V, then towards the other, a black and pink T-shirt with lacing on the edges and an equally sized V. She compared them for a few minutes before tossing the salmon colored one back onto her bed. Mary lifted the shirt over her head and pulled her arms through, satisfied about her choice. A light knock came on the door, slow but firm. “Mary Thomas?”

“Yeees?” She asked towards the direction of the voice, knowing it had to be a stranger by the way it asked for her name, “Who ‘es ‘et?”

“Commander O’Brien,” Morrigan answered. “Are you available right now?”

“Yeh’,” Mary responded, looking over towards her bed, “Je’ ‘inished actually...”

Morrigan slowly opened the door, a cautious smile on her face. “I’m sorry I’ve never had a chance…” She raised an eyebrow, noticing someone sleeping on the bed. She couldn’t see who it was, but could tell from the leg sticking out from under the covers that it was a woman. “...a… a chance to meet you personally. I… I hate to ask you for a favor the same day we meet, but I hope you’ll understand.”

Mary quickly considered the fact the Ayame was technically a higher rank than her. I hope this doesn’t count as sleeping with your CO… She gave Morrigan a smile, “‘Ure, ‘eh ‘ouldn’t ‘ind doin’ ‘eh favor ‘or ‘eh ‘ood ‘ook’in ‘oman ‘ike ye’self...”

Morrigan laughed. “Well, you’re an honest one, aren’t you?” She folded her arms. “Unfortunately, I’m looking for a bit of dishonesty right now. How’re your acting skills, Ms. Thomas?”

“‘Pends” She answered, “Whadda’ya ‘ant meh’ te’ do?”

The Commander took a seat on a computer chair. “Well, as I’m sure you’ve heard, we had a number of prisoners from the attack the other day. One in particular had a bit of rank, and we were able to get some information from her, information about another possible threat. And… unfortunately, her story checks out so far. We have reason to believe a woman named Mira Wade, and her PMC Black Void, might have reason to come after us. We are formulating plans to infiltrate their ranks. We have an idea of what we’ll need to do, I’ve already got someone picked out who has been dying for such a mission, but… we need a bit more information. And our little songbird has lost her voice. I was hoping to find someone who could get some info from her, and being from England, another soldier of mine who knows her suggested you might be able to get on the same page with her, strike up a dialogue, and maybe get some info.”

Mira Wade? Can’t be… Can it? And Black Void Contracting too… “Se… Ye’ ‘ant meh’ te’ act ‘ike eh’m eh’nother merc?”

“Exactly,” Morrigan answered. “Obviously, if you don’t feel up to it, or you have some morale reasons for not wanting to do so, I’ll understand. Ms. Kasagi just said you’re usually open for anything, so I came to you first.”

“‘Ell, eh’ usually ‘ike te’ beh’ honest wit’ ‘eople… ‘At bein’ ‘aid ‘ough, sh’ ‘id shoot meh’ ‘irlfriend in th’ legs… An’ ‘eh ‘ouldn’t ‘ant te’ turn ye’ ‘own…” Mary said, considering, “Al’ight, eh’m ‘en…”

“Alright! Good to… hear…” Morrigan’s eyes wandered over to the bed again. “Oh… oh, I… hope I didn’t… ahem, interrupt something…”

The gunner looked over to Ayame and smirked, “Neh’, we ‘ave te’ ‘art th’ ‘ay et’ ‘ome point ‘on’t weh’?”

“Hmm…” Morrigan thought for a moment, then shrugged. “Alright. Meet me in front of the brig in about twenty minutes, alright? We’ll have everything ready for you then.”

“Gotcha’,” She replied, standing up and moving some of her long hair out of her eyes, “E’ll be ‘own ‘ere in twenty.”

Morrigan nodded, and stepped out. A few moments later, Ayame stretched a bit, sitting up and rubbing the sleep from her eyes and not bothering to cover herself. “Did I… yawn… miss anything?”

“Neh’, je’ goin’ te’ go spy ‘en eh’ merc.” Mary answered, smiling back at Ayame.

===========

Morrigan handed Mary a small recording device to put in her pocket. “Now, we don’t need you to make her spill her every dirty little secret. The most important thing we need is an HQ. Black Void is surprisingly hard to find for such a well financed group. Even if you could narrow the country, it would be a big help. We’d also like an idea of how many soldiers we’d be dealing with, and any tech we should worry about. Last, any personal info you can get about Mira Wade to supplement what we’ve found would help. The most important thing is to be casual. Don’t try and force anything, and don’t feel pressured if you aren’t getting your answers.”

Mary looked down at her attire, she now looked very much like a raggedy prisoner, someone who had been here for a few days at least. Her hair was messy and only slightly dirty, enough to make it seem like she had been interrogated, but only for a few days. She seemed to be as believable of a fake, imprisoned merc, as she could get. “Je’ ‘on’t ‘ake enythin’ eh’ say ‘en ‘ere te’ ‘eriously, al’ight?” She answered, stretching a little.

“Anything you say will be off the record.” The Commander patted her on the shoulder. “Good luck.” She nodded at the two guards, and walked out.

The guards walked her through the brig, the first whispering, “So… you’re Ayame’s special friend, right?”

“Mmhm.” She replied with a slight chuckle, “An’ ye are?”

Jake chuckled a bit himself. “Just a dead man if I hurt her friend at all.” His expression turned more serious. “We… can’t be in the area if we want her to talk, but we’ll be in the next room over, so just yell if you need anything. And when we get to her cell, we’ll need to convince her that you can be trusted.” He gave her an apprehensive look. “I’m willing to make it look good if you are…”

“Dun’t ‘orry, ‘eh can ‘ake ‘eh hit ‘er two.” The Gunner smirked, “Eh’m ‘ure she’ll under’and.”

Jake swallowed hard. “I, uh… I didn’t mean me hitting you…”

“‘En who?” She tilted her head, “Oh… Eh’ get et’... Eh’ ‘on’t ‘urt ye’... Too ‘ad…”

Jake nodded, and put on his bravest voice. “Listen, if you just stop pissing off the Commander and started answering her questions, things would go so much easier for you. Keep this up, and she’ll just give up and throw you out in the snow!”

Mary put on a scowl, “‘Eh wanna’ see ‘at ginger cunt try te’ lay ‘eh ‘inger ‘en me!”

Jake grabbed her by the shoulder, stopping in front of Demeter’s cell. “Listen here. I don’t care who you are, and what your supposed rights are! Don’t talk about my CO like that!”

Mary growled as Jake grabbed her, “‘En ‘aybe you’ll ‘are ‘bout ‘is!” She said as she rammed her head into Jakes face, perhaps getting into the moment a little too much.

Jake dropped to his knees, clenching his face in pain. Jesus! God… I need a raise for this crap! Or at least some actual pay… He shakily point at Demeter’s cell. “J-just… just throw her in there!” The other guard did just that, and helped Jake to his feet, the bleeding guard flashing Mary an angry look as they left that might have been more genuine than he intended.

Demeter broke into hysterical laughter the moment they were gone, wiping away a tear. “Oh… oh, that was good, love. I’m sure he’ll be right gutted [1] when he finds out his nose is broken. Good show.”

“‘Anks… ‘At bastard ‘ill ‘ink twice ‘ext ‘ime he ‘ants te’ lay ‘eh ‘inger en’ me…” The gunner spoke, cracking her neck left and right.

“Duffer [2] thought he could… psycho-analyze me.” Demeter scoffed. “Would ‘ave done more myself if I had the chance. Hmph, and that red-headed old codger [3] that threw me in here.” She shook her head. “Wat’s your name?”

“Mary…” She answered, “Beh’ ‘eh usually go beh’ Lavender ‘en eh’m work’in.”

“Rose. Go by Demeter, though. Guess it was a giraffe [4], though hell if I care what it meant.” Demeter extended her hand. “Good to meet ya.”

Mary walked up to shake her hand, “‘Ame ‘ere, ‘ough eh’ ‘ish ‘et ‘ere en’ ‘etter circum’ances”

“Yeah…” Demeter sat back. “You ‘ere for the attack? Didn’t see you back on base… not that I pretend te know everyone there.”

‘Lavender’ nodded twice, “Yeh’ ‘eh ‘as ‘ere for th’ ‘ttack, ‘ore ‘ike ‘eh slaughter ‘ough if ye’ ask meh’...”

“Tell me about it…” Demeter folded her arms, scowling. “‘It’d be easy,’ boys said, like we’re attackin’ some rinky dink shack. Next thing I know, I’m runnin’ through the snow. It’s brass monkeys [5], and things start goin’ all to pot [6] from second one. I get shackled with five muppets [7] I don’t even know, run inta some… friendly alien. Friendly for them, anyway. Still thought I had it in the hand, but before I even know what’s goin’ on, everything goes cock up [8], and… now I’m here, facing about ten thousand years of prison time…”

 

[Frostlich1228]

“Mary Thomas, Super Sleuth: Part Two"

“Eh’ ‘ike ‘ow ‘at Viktor ‘ellow ‘glected te’ ‘ention we ‘ere raid’in ‘eh base ‘’unded by eh’ dozen ‘en up bloody ‘ations…” She sighed loudly.

“They give you that tosh [9] about holdin’ us responsible, too?” Demeter scoffed. “I’m done with all this bollocks [10]. Can’t stand it. Willin’ te bet Wade knew about it, but signed on for a big enough check.” She rubbed her forehead. “I’m sorry. Just knackered [11]. Can’t stand being treated like… a disposable weapon. You can only go so long being treated like rubbish [12] until you… just… get tired…”

I know too well how that feels, sister… Mary thought before responding, “‘Eh know ‘ow ye’ feel… Was ‘ivin’ on th’ street ‘fore all ‘is bollocks… Ne’er ‘anges ‘oes ‘et?”

“Where ye from, love?” Demeter smiled, trying to at least find something less depressing to pass the time with. “That’s quite an accent, even for a fellow Brit. Down south?”

“Yeh’, th’ slums eh’ london. You?”

“Liverpool. Though lived in England for the last ten years. I’d imagine that was how Black Void picked you up, huh, love? You were in the neighborhood, after all.”

“‘Eeded ‘eh place te’ afte’ th’ club eh’ ‘as workin’ at shut ‘own, and ‘ey offered te’ ‘ive me housin’.” She answered, sitting down on the concrete.

Demeter chuckled. “Watchya doin’ love?” She scooted to the side, patting the bed. “No point in hurtin’ your back for my sake.”

“Heh, ‘anks…” Mary smiled, sitting on the bed next to her, sighing, “Et’ bloody boils meh’ blood… Ell’ the ‘eople ‘ey ‘ad o’er at B.V.C. an ‘ey ‘in’nt e’en ‘end all of em’... Must’e ‘ought ‘is ‘as gunna’ be ‘ome ‘ort te’ cakewalk ‘er sum’tin…” The gunner said, trying to turn the conversation in a direction that would give the number of troops they have there.

“Might ‘ave been, with Viktor’s boys.” Detemer placed her hand against her chin. “Worries me a bit, though. When I told what’s ‘er face about Mira’s grudge, I was mostly speakin’ out my ass, but now that I’ve thought about it…” She shook her head. “Maybe she will. They probably don’t have much left, with what we lost here, but knowin’ Mira, she’ll be able to bolster her numbers in a fortnight. Just ‘cause it went damp squib [13] this time doesn’t mean it will with Mira in charge. You ever meet her?”

“In ‘erson? Neh’.” Mary shook her head, “‘Eh knew eh’ Mira Wade ‘rom meh’ ‘ays as ‘eh orphan ‘ough, an’ I’ve al’ays ‘ondered if ‘et ‘as th’ ‘ame one, but ‘eh je’ know se’ ‘ittle ‘bout ‘er.”

“Doubt it,” Demeter responded. “Think she was from Africa. And I think Logan gave her the name when he took her in. Besides, this girl is a piece of work. I’m sure you would know if it was the same woman.”

Mary chuckled, “Yeh’, eh’ suppose ‘eh would. ‘Ow do ye’ know se’ much e’bout ‘er?”

Demeter rubbed the back of her neck. “Uh… to be honest… bein’ nosey. Dinit much trust Wade, or Mira. So I’d sneak a listen whenever I could. Had a couple missions with her, and she… she’s cold, unapologetic, uncaring. You ever see those… cliche villains that killed the people under them for upsetting them a bit? I never her saw her do it… but I wouldn’t be surprised if I did.”

“‘Ell if eh’ ‘et outta’ ‘ere wit’out fifty ‘ears eh’ jail ‘ime en’ meh’ ‘oulders, eh’ ‘ink eh’m goin’ teh’ get out of th’ merce’ary ‘usiness… You?” Mary asked, leaning against the wall with her hands behind her head.

“I… I don’t know.” Demeter looked upset, even confused. “I don’t know much beyond… killing.” She rubbed her eyes. “Doesn’t matter, though. I put a bullet through someone’s gut, another two through Eris’s legs. I’m gonna be in a cell like this for the rest of my life, aren’t I?”

“‘Eh dun’t know…” Mary responded, looking over to her, “‘At yellow ‘irl ‘at ‘terrogated me ‘aid ‘ey let ‘er join up ‘wit ‘em ‘en she ‘roved she ‘as trustworthy… Beh’ who ‘ows? She ‘ight’ve je’ ‘aid ‘at in ‘eh ‘ttempt te’ get meh’ te’ talk…”

“Hmm…” Demeter scratched her chin. “I could do that…” She laughed, mostly at herself. “But how’s that gonna work for me? Girl I shot is friends with the big cheese. She’ll never… but I guess that’s what I get fer holdin’ a grudge, huh?”

“Grudge? Ye’ ‘ave sum’tin ‘gainst that Asian ‘irl? Ye’ know, o’er ‘an ‘utting ye’ in ‘ail ‘at is…” ‘Lavender’ asked curiously.

“It… was stupid.” Demeter laughed. “She, uh… she slept… with my daughter. Didn’t… seduce her, didn’t force her into it, at least that’s what… what Sarah tried to beat into my head a thousand times. But I wouldn’t listen. I was, I am just some tired, stubborn bitch that can never be wrong. And… and n-now… now I’m gonna rot for it… I-I… I can’t… lose my freedom, I… I-I’d rather die…”

“Ye’... Ye’ ‘ave eh’ daughter?” Mary asked, a sad look growing on her face, “‘Ow old es’ she?”

“She, uh… she’s about your age, I’d say. Twenty…” She closed her eyes, trying to remember what the date was. “Twenty-five now. She pushed me away, though. Smartest thing she ever did. She’s married, has a kid of her own… ‘nother on the way, last I heard.” She laughed. “She told me to get out of this life. That something bad would happen if I didn’t. That I was… that I was a monster. And she was right. And… and now…” She covered her eyes again, this time standing up and walking away.

“‘Ey…” Mary spoke, standing up as well, “‘Ell ye’ ‘at… If eh’ ‘et out of ‘ere ‘an ‘ey ‘et me ‘oin ‘ere project… E’ll do meh’ ‘est te’ get ye’ outta’ ‘ere too… Al’ight?”

Demeter sniffed, and cleared her throat. “W… why? I’m just some… stubborn, pigheaded, pushy bitch. Do I… even deserve to be saved? Why… waste your time with me?”

“‘Cause… Eh’ knew ‘omeone who ‘as alot ‘ike ye’... She ‘id ‘ome ‘eally ‘ad ‘ings in th’ ‘ast… But she ‘ade up ‘or ‘em and ‘urned ‘er ‘ife around…” Mary answered, taking a few steps closer to her, “‘Eh ‘ink you ‘ould do the ‘ame… Eh’ ‘ink ye’ ‘ould change ‘ike she ‘id…”

Demeter sighed. “I… I don’t know if I can, but… but I’ve never tried. Never had a reason to.” She shook her head. “That’s a lie. My daughter was a reason to, and I skived [14] off on that.” She squeezed her fists. “I have to try, though. I… I can’t let this be the end. I… just hope I don’t balls it up by goin’ off on Eris the moment I see her again…”

“Good…” Mary said, smiling, “‘Eh ‘ink… Know ye’ can…”

A knock came on the bars, a fairly sour looking Jake holding a towel that probably didn’t used to be red against his nose. “You settle down enough to go back to your cell without attacking me?”

“‘Enly ef’ ye’ ‘eep yer’ ‘ands off meh’ fer’ now en’...” She replied, looking over to the bars.

“I… I only…” Jake shook his head, and opened the door, motioning his head for her to come out. Once they were out of earshot, Jake asked, “You get what you were looking for?”

“Yeh’, got e’erything we ‘eeded.” Mary answered, looking at his bleeding nose, “Sorry… ‘uess meh’ ‘eads ‘arder ‘an eh’ ‘ought it was…”

“Yes, you did…” Jake sighed, and smiled at her. “But at least it worked. And I’m just glad you were able to hold a conversation with her without her goin’ nuts. Didn’t… sense any hostility out of her. Just sadness, worry… and maybe a bit of hope when I walked up.”

“She’s… Net’ ‘es ‘ad es’ ye’ ‘aid sh’ ‘as… ‘Eh ‘ink she ‘ould ‘ange if we ‘ive ‘er th’ chance...”

“I’ve seen crazier things,” Jake responded. “At any rate, good work. Guess you’re a regular Jamie Bond.”

“Who?”

“Oh, uh… there were these movies with this British spy, named James… but you’re a girl, so I said… Jamie…” He chuckled. “N… n-never mind…”

Mary let out a slight chuckle as well, “Se’, yer’ Ay’me’s friend ‘ight?”

“Well, uh… I’m Atka’s boyfriend, and Atka is Ayame’s friend. Though I get the impression that makes me less of an friend, and more of a… problem. But I’m trying. I won’t let Atka down, which means I hopefully won’t let Ayame down…”

Atka’s Boyfriend? Bloody hell… “‘Eh… ‘An ye’ not ‘ell ‘er ‘eh ‘eadbutted ye’? ‘At’s net’ ‘eally th’ ‘ay eh’ ‘ant te’ ‘ank ‘er fer’ ‘sav’in meh’ life…”

Jake laughed, flinching a bit. “Don’t worry about it. It isn’t broken… at least I don’t think. And I did tell you to hit me. If she asks, I’ll tell her the truth. If there is one thing I’ve learn about Atka by now, is she has more empathy than anyone I’ve ever met. And that’s coming from someone who can literally feel other people’s emotions.”

“‘Ell, ‘ets go see th’ ‘mmander an’ ‘ell ‘er th’ good news.” Mary replied, “‘Ouldn’t ‘eep ‘eh hottie ‘ike ‘er waiting.”


[1] Devastated, Saddened
[2] Idiot, Simpleton
[3] Grouch, Belligerent old bugger.
[4] Joke, A laugh
[5] Extremely cold
[6] Situation going out of control, Failing miserably
[7] Dimwit
[8] A failure of large or epic proportions
[9] Rubbish, Crap
[10] Nonsense
[11] Exhausted
[12] Trash, Garbage
[13] Failure on all accounts
[14] Failure at an obligation

 

[Adrammalech]

// IDEAL TRADE //
Emily Fischer
XCOM Headquarters – Alien Containment Unit
Siberia, Russian Federation
October 8, 2018 - 11:32 AM

As Emily closed the door behind her, she felt the same apprehension she did when she connected with the Ethereal, her emotions subtly linking with hers. As she approached the cell, happiness washed over her with the psionic equivalent of an Ethereal smile.

Thank you for making my request a reality. Avaritia is dear to my heart, and even if he is miserable and caged, at least I know he still lives.

“Yeah, well…I’m hoping that you nearly losing your friend will make you think about the next time you try to take a human life.”

Point…taken.

“Speaking of which, I believe I owe you a thank you too. Your new drug is working without any problems.”

Luxuria's avatar smiled confidently. Of course it is, it was a simple task. Are they on the road to recovery?

“You care?”

I’m curious.

“They’re getting there.”

Good. Luxuria’s avatar nodded. See what happens when you trust me?

“Don’t get too excited,” Emily raised a hand, “all you did was help fix what you broke.”

Luxuria paused for a moment, considering. I thought you’d be happy…

“I am, and I’m grateful…just, don’t act like you’re a better person because of it.”

By my standards, I’m a wonderful person, and I’ve never doubted that. However, by your standards, as odd as they may be…I’d like to think I’m making headway.

“Maybe,” Emily replied. “Never thought I’d see you seeking approval though.”

Do not mistake my curiosity for transformation. I still believe in what my people do, and my place in it. Our error was in understanding, not morality.

“I don’t get the difference.”

Remember when I said the Path was to be used on inferior beings? Well, that’s what we thought you were. Primitive. Gula used your people for pet food, remember? There is a massive schism in seeing you as vessels worthy of ascensions and peons waiting to be subjugated. If I was to return and tell them I found you an equal, it would deepen the rift even more.

“But if you could convince them, there could be coexistence?”

Luxuria thought deeply for a moment, sadly turning away. No. There are some people, like Ira, who will not be as flexible as me, and there will still be war. A belief as old as the Path is doomed to create debate and fighting in the wake of such a novel thought system.

“I guess your people aren’t as above conflict as you thought.”

No, perhaps not. The avatar sighed. They could surprise me either way.

“What can you tell me about Ira? He sounds…rigid.”

I have no interest in talking about him.

“Why not?”

Perhaps when its relevant, I will help…but please, I’d rather not think about him today.

“I guess you’ve earned a pass in all of our conversations…”

I appreciate it. Luxuria scratched her chin, then smiled. You know, I recently improved my abilities to create virtual structures with my illusory powers. Would you like to go somewhere?

“Go somewhere?”

Yes, in your mind. I want to recreate a place, like I did for your dreamscape, just temporary.

“Why?”

Because I want to thank you. In doing so, you will learn more about me, and I will have a brief yet artificial moment of freedom. An ideal trade, yes?

“I suppose. So…dampeners?”

Yes. Just as much as before.

 

[Adrammalech]

// Ideal Trade: Part Two

Emily walked up to the controls and put her hand on the dampeners, looking up at the Ethereal for a moment. Her avatar put her hand on Emily’s shoulder, smiling comfortingly as the dampeners began to dull. Emily slipped into her mind as she did with her memories, and then her dreamscape, now emerging in a completely new construct. An alien room built up around her, alloy walls and iron furniture. The room was almost entirely empty, with only a couple low benches and tables sitting in intervals. To the human eye, it looked like a laboratory or a hospital waiting room, but the ever-expanding alien thoughts in Emily’s brain told her that this was somehow a room to relax in.

“What is this place?”

“It’s an entertainment facility,” Luxuria answered. “Certainly it looks familiar, I know you have them too.”

“Uh…not really. Our ‘facilities’ usually have entertaining looking things. Where’s the bar?” Emily asked. “Don’t you drink?”

“As in your alcohol? No. We do have things similar in purpose to your alcohol or drugs, but they are synthetic constructs, not substances that we ingest.”

“I see…what about food then? This is nothing like a pub or a bar…”

“There is food, but it’s not quite as social with you…”

“What do you mean?”

“We inject the nutrients we need from vats, like those,” Luxuria replied, pointing to a small glowing set of canisters.

“Oh…that sucks.”

“Yes…our digestive system isn’t what it was. Generally it’s cloned extract from grains and plants. Some Ethereals are more ‘adventurous’ and eat highly tenderized meats in small chunks…your cattle were becoming popular exotic meats last I checked.”

“Beef being classified as ‘exotic’…”

“It must be amusing to hear,” Luxuria smiled. “Avaritia in particular loved eating human food, he always risked getting sick from something too spicy or too firm, but he wouldn’t miss the chance to try it.”

Emily walked over to a large table, a small surface inlaid with a silver disc in the center. As they approached, an array of colored lights bursting from the top in streams. The lights glittered and pulsated randomly, looking like a knickknack you’d buy from a mall gift shop.

“What’s this?” she asked.

“This is our recreation,” Luxuria said. “Would you like to try it?”

“Uh…what’s it do? You just stare at it?”

“Something like that. After activating it, it creates an illusion that relaxes you. Here, I’ll show you.”

Luxuria walked to the other end of the table and activated the disc, the lights beginning to shine towards Emily instead of upwards. Her head crooked as she looked into the origin point curiously, feeling her psionics being engaged by the device. In a single sweeping moment, the little pains and nagging tensions in her muscles and joints vanished. She stretched her arm upwards and gave a little jump, her legs bursting upwards with far more power than she expected. She bashed through the layers of concrete and steel above her, rocketing unstoppably until she reached the stratosphere. With a gentle wave, she fanned her arms out began to fly, a gentle breeze whipping across her face and through her clothes as she glided through the sky. Waves of tingling pleasure radiated from her heart, whisking through her body in a steady rhythm.

The slightly acrid taste of the Ethereal air disappeared, effortlessly replaced with the senses she cherished most. A spice-laced smell of magnolias, the tingle of mist cascading over her skin, the taste of freshly-made pancakes with strawberry syrup, and the child-like bliss and ardor of running towards the tree on Christmas morning. Emily let her eyes drift closed as she relaxed into a cool current, her fear and stress completely gone. Her eyes winked open again and she was where she was before, looking into the waterfall of violet, yellow, and green lights twinkling in front of her, waiting for further input. Despite the simulation being over, her happiness lingered into reality, and she didn’t want to go back into it right away.

“Wow, that’s…effective,” Emily sighed happily.

“That was me of course, since we’re in a simulation,” Luxuria noted, “but I tried to make it as realistic as possible. Most Ethereals spend a lot of their free time with these.”

“I can see why…it felt amazing…”

“Yes, well…those are also the synthetic constructs I spoke of. Biokinesis can be addictive without enough will and regulation, and some people like to remove those regulators and sell them. It’s one of the very few ills in our society.”

“How’d you get a machine that could do biokinesis?”

“Same way we worked the hyperwave relays, and countless other devices. Combining organic and synthetic pieces, and then lots and lots of experiments. ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way,’ as your saying goes.”

“So, could you have like a sentry gun that shoots psionic bolts, or a lighter that uses pyrokinesis?”

“Theoretically anything is possible with enough effort and research, but those would be unnecessary endeavors. We already have plenty of guns and butane,” Luxuria smirked, then sighed. “Are you ready to return?”

“I am,” she nodded.

The room fell apart and got shelved back into memory, and Emily awoke again in the real world, looking at Luxuria’s cell as her avatar rematerialized.

I hope you enjoyed the look. It's been so long since I've been able to go to one of those facilities.

“It was interesting, and I appreciate you sharing,” Emily admitted, “but what did that do for me?”

So impatient. Isn’t it more fun to figure out yourself? Luxuria smiled briefly. You know how we eat, relax, and feel joy now, which makes you a little bit more like us. You should be able to use your abilities a little more reliably…and access my biokinesis in small doses.

“Biokinesis is a green ability, there’s no way I could manage that.”

You’re using my thought processes that are trapped in your mind since our first joining. Think of my imprint in your mind like a handprint in fine sand...you can see it exactly how it was, but if you try to change it, it will look faked or collapse. You can use it to toy with others’ chemical imbalances just like I do, and set off their breeding instincts…but you won’t be able to use it offensively, as I despise that kind of attack and have never used it.

“So getting them off against their will is okay, but attacking their insides is off-limits.”

Luxuria nodded. That's how I see it. You sound judgemental.

“Gets a little close to rape for me.”

It’s entirely different. Rape involves violating someone physically and personally. My ability merely bestows happiness in a way their bodies demand and their minds subconsciously desire, and there is no invasion of privacy.

“I think some people would disagree with you,” she replied, barely disguising a growing agitation.

I suppose we still have our differences. Use it how you wish, Emily. I’m sure your ‘special friend’ will enjoy it, at the very least.

Luxuria’s avatar turned back to the cell and vanished, and the Ethereal returned to her devices. Emily turned and began to leave, stopping halfway and looking back at her. With a pointed finger, her hand glowed green, sending a weak wispy connection through the glass. Luxuria looked back at her, unimpressed.

Nice try.

Can’t blame me…

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Adrammalech & ZombieSplitter53
"Nipping a Problem in the Bud"

X-COM Headquarters
Officer of Morrigan O’Brien
Oct. 11th, 0900 Hours

Morrigan leaned back in her chair, waiting for her early morning meeting to start as she watched her ever energetic child practice her abilities. Combining her psionic training with her artistic side, Brigid stared at a small canvas as two small bushes slowly painted a pleasant like side scenery, nothing groundbreaking in the world of art, but impressive considering Brigid’s age.

Emily rubbed her eyes as she approached the secretary’s desk, trying to suppress a yawn as she did the customary introduction of herself. “Emily Fischer, I was summoned?”

Peggy nodded, smiling the pleasant smile she always seemed to have. “Of course, go on in. She’s expecting you.”

Emily did a small knock on the door and then opened it, poking her head in. “You rang?”

Morrigan took her feet off her desk, sitting up straight. “Yes, please, come in, Ms. Fischer. I have a special job for you.”

“A special job?” she asked as she took a seat across from her. “What would that be?”

“Mommy wants you to be a spy,” Brigid mumbled, not able to draw too much attention from her telekinesis.

“Yes, I believe it is time to give you that covert op you requested a while ago,” Morrigan said. “We have some loose ends to tie up with EXALT, or more specifically, their affiliates.”

“You mean the PMC guys? They didn’t seem like much of a threat,” Emily replied. “AIice was tearing them up when they came after our team.”

“Yes, but we can’t let someone threatening us be free to try again, especially with them knowing what to expect next time.” Morrigan leaned back, folding her hands. “What’s more, we’ve had a number of recent attacks on some of our convoys and shipping routes. It obviously isn’t Viktor Dorian, and based on information obtained for some of our captives, we believe that it is an act of a single PMC group. We can’t let this go unanswered, especially if their new leader is as dangerous as we believe. We have enough on our plate with the aliens to let another EXALT crop up.”

“That does sound pretty bad, though not entirely surprising. For every bad guy that dies, two more try to take his place...at least the aliens have the sense to stay dead,” Emily sighed. “So, do we know where they are, or will that be my job?”

Morrigan pulled out a few sheets of paper from a folder, sliding one in front of Emily. “We believe they are operating within London, England, under the name British Crown Contracting. Their true name is Black Void Contracting, and we believe they are starting a massive recruitment campaign right now. I’d like to hope it is only to regroup their numbers after their loss here, but we have information that suggest it might be for more vindictive reasons. I’d like for you to head down there and… turn in your application, as it were.”

Emily looked over the files, shaking her head. “These guys are into all sorts of bad stuff...but I guess that shouldn’t surprise me.” She shut the folder and looked back up. “Is anyone else coming along?”

“As usual, this’ll be a solo op. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t have some support. You aren’t the only one loyal to X-COM infiltrating their ranks. You’re past accomplishments and PMC works, along with the credentials to prove them true, have already been worked out. Before entering, you’ll meet with our local intelligence agent, Brittany Watts. She’ll address you by your alias, and supply you with your credentials, gear, and the names of any other agents you can trust that have already infiltrated their ranks, however many there may be by the time you get there. As always, Watts is completely trustworthy, so you shouldn’t have to question her loyalty.”

“I hope you’re right. Although it wouldn’t make much sense for someone to leave us for a group still using laser weapons,” she grinned.

Morrigan sighed. “Lasers… for the most part, though we believe they might have stolen what was left of EXALTs technology and information. Amongst your other assignments, we’d like you to destroy any information you come across related to such tech, as well as anything relating to X-COM, of course. additionally, we need you to locate and, if at all possible, pacify their leader, Mira Wade.”

“Wade? Wasn’t that their leader’s name?”

“Indeed.” The Commander reached into the file again, pulling out a fairly grainy photograph. “Sorry, best we could come up with, but it’ll give you an idea of who to look for, though her disposition will likely give her away before anything else. Mira appears to be the adopted daughter of their former leader. He picked her up after an attack on her home town, possibly after her parents died in said attack. Why a man like this would take in an orphan child is beyond me. Regardless, she is supposedly just as ruthless as he was, if not more so now that she has revenge on her mind. She is not to be taken lightly in the slightest regard, and the danger she poses alone is part of the reason for this operation in the first place.”

“Maybe it’s some kind of weird battle trophy or Amazon fetish kind of thing,” Emily mumbled, doubling back through the file. “I’ll see if I can reason with her, or take her out if need be. That’d probably be pretty hard in her home, though.”

“Right. This mission will be more about sabotage then anything else. Take care of her if at all possible, but do not endanger yourself in the process. And, as always, we’ll have a team on standby, ready to blast our way in to extract you if need be. Don’t hesitate to call for extraction if you need it.”

“Will do, I’ll spread as much discord as possible. Anything else I should know?”

“Just that Mira is supposedly very ruthless with her people.” Morrigan grinned. “Just… watch what you say out there. Don’t need you getting shot, not because you were found out, but because she didn’t like the way you said something. Though, given your reputation, if there is one person that can smooth talk this one, its you.”

“I’ll make you proud,” Emily smiled warmly. “When do I leave?”

Morrigan stood up. “As soon as you feel you are ready.” She extended her hand. “Good luck out there. I hope you make us as proud as I already expect you to.”

“I’ll pack now then,” Emily stood and shook the Commander’s hand. “I’m always ready to go.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSplitter53
"Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make me a Match"

XCOM Headquarters
Office of Doctor Rinly, Med Bay
October 11th, 1400 Hours

Elizabeth sat at her desk, kicking her legs as she played a game of Solitaire to help alleviate the boredom of a slow day. She scrunched up her nose in frustration as she couldn’t match up the cards and sat back in annoyed defeat. “Stupid game...I didn’t want to play anyways.”

A light chuckle came from the doorway. “Not fun when the cards don’t turn in your favor. But at least it’s better than patients gushing blood, right?”

She turned around in her chair and raised an eyebrow at her visitor. “Hey Eve, what’s up? And to be fair, most of the people who come here aren’t bleeding that much.”

“Well, if we keep having successful missions like the last one, you might be out of a job.” Eve casually walked in, sitting in front of Elizabeth’s desk. “I just wanted to talk. You know… with my sanity in check this time. You didn’t seem to busy, so I was hoping you could… make time for me?”

“Um, sure.” Ellie looked at the clock and pursed her lips. “Yeah, I got time. So what would you like to talk about?” She asked a bit cautiously.

Eve chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck nervously. “This… is awkward. You seem like such a sweet person. I’ve heard practically nothing but good things about you. And yet, we met on such… odd circumstances. This probably doesn’t… mean a whole lot, coming from me, but I want to… congratulate you on your engagement… as well as tell you how happy I am I didn’t destroy your relationship.”

Ellie shook her head. “It doesn’t mean any less coming from you, and you didn’t threaten to destroy our relationship...we have been doing pretty good actually since then so you don’t have to worry too much about that.”

Eve placed her chin in her hands, giving Ellie a curious look. “Still, it was something of a risk, no matter how good you two are together. I never got to ask you why. Why did you put up with me? Why help out someone you didn’t really know, someone who lusted after you boyfriend the first time you met her?”

“I don’t...I don’t really know to be honest with you. I mean when I saw you...um, doing what you were doing I can’t say I didn’t want to hurt you but for some reason…” Elizabeth tried to think of an answer but none came to mind.

Eve thought for a while herself, the two sitting in silence. Eventually, she smiled. “Maybe… you’re just really that sweet of a person. To see someone in pain, in need, even someone who has done nothing but earn your spite, and still be willing to help them, I… it blows me away. I wish I could say I would have done the same thing. I… I guess that’s why Desmond loves you so much.”

“To be honest, when we first met, I was sort of the one to go after him. He intrigued me so much that my curiosity ended up getting the better of me. One thing led to another and here we are today. To think he could have visited any other doctor than me that day and we might not even be together right now.”

“I… I don’t believe in destiny, or fate, or any of that crap. But… I’m still compelled to say that you two were meant to be together. It couldn’t have happened any other way.” Eve laughed. “That’s probably the cheesiest thing you ever heard. But I think it’s true. Whatever the reason, I couldn’t be happier for the two of you. Just… promise you’ll keep an eye on him. Reckless, that one. Can’t have him dying when he has such a wonderful wife waiting for him back home.”

“Don’t sell yourself short, I am sure you are a wonderful person too. Is there anyone you have your eye on? Well...other than my future husband?” She teased.

“Hmm?” Eve thought for a few moments. “No… not really. Guess I’m too immature. Always act so uppity when people look down on me for how young I look, but it doesn’t help if I act like a horny teenager, does it. Maybe… I should start looking for something more permanent.” She grinned. “Especially now that Desy’s off the market.”

“Hm...well, what are you looking for in a man? You have to have some sort of preference?”

“Someone… strong. The kind of man that can hold me in his big, powerful arms and make me feel safe, just knowing he’s there. But also respects my strengths, and doesn’t automatically think I need saving all the time. Intelligent enough, but not super egg-headed.” Eve shrugged. “Is there such a thing as a jock with a heart of gold? ‘Cause that would be great.”

“I...don’t think so.” Elizabeth thought for a second and put her hand on her chin. “Wait a minute...wait...a...minute…” Sudden realization dawned on Elizabeth and she nearly bounced in her chair. “I think I know someone, but a word of warning, he will probably be a tough nut to crack.”

“Oh?” Eve laughed. “Well, I’m always up for a challenge. You did you have in mind?”

“Well there are these guys Desmond had mention more than once to me, you are familiar by now with Legion I am sure but there is a particular group that might have someone right up your alley. There are four of them so you have a choice of body type and this might appeal to you,” She leaned in close. “The four of the guys were clones of Desmond’s brother, so they all share a resemblance to Desmond.”

“Hmm… I don’t wanna sound like I’m still perving on your man, but you’ve caught my attention with that.” Eve leaned back, obviously interested. “What are their names? Where are they?”

“Lets see...they have a shared room in the Legion sector. Their names are...uh…” Ellie had a tough time recalling their names. “Can’t remember their names exactly but they were simple. Not proper names but that shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Well… all the more reason to meet them myself.” Eve nodded in thought. She finally reached across the table, grasping Ellie’s hand. “Thank you again. For… you know, everything. I hope I’m invited to the wedding.”

“Uh, yeah of course. Anytime Eve.” She simply replied.

 

[MarineAvenger]

What It Means To Be Human Part 1 (ZombieSplitter53 and MarineAvenger)

X-COM Headquarters
Main Laboratory, Genetics Lab, Special Holding Cell

Jessica took several deep breaths, standing outside of the door, a bead of sweat already starting to drip down her forehead. She reached for the door, then pulled her hand back like it was on fire.

You… you want me to do it?

Do you really have the energy for it?

Um… no. But I can try…

“It’s fine.” Jessica mumbled. “I’ll be fine.”

“You say something?” Sergio asked, raising an eyebrow. When Jessica didn’t answer, he glanced at Alicia. She tapped her head. Sergio nodded in understanding.

“Let’s go.” Jessica finally pushed open the door, almost flinging it open before she could lose her nerve. The three entered, and stood before Asher’s cell. She leaned back, and whispered, “Remember, you are only here as back up and interpreters. No aggressive actions unless he does something… v-violent…” Leaning forward again, her voice cracked a bit as she spoke out loud. “H-heh… um… one of the soldiers said you were going by Asher now.” She motioned towards the sniper behind her. “Sergio here is a blue psion. He has volunteered to interpret for us, since you… you can’t speak. So just direct your thoughts openly, and he’ll transfer them to me. And because of your dampening, you won’t have to worry about him hearing anything you don’t want him to hear. Understand?”

Asher simply nodded from his desk and close his eyes, doing as she instructed. Are you able to hear me clearly like this? Surprisingly, the voice was nothing like Markus’s, this one more calm and smooth but with an unmistakable coldness to it that was borderline unnerving.

“Yes, I can hear you.” Jessica smiled. “I… We, uh… we’d like to give you a physical today, of sorts. There is only so much we can do from out here with sensors and such. They… they wanted to knock you out for it, but I… s-suggested we give you a chance to do this while awake…”

You have a right to be tense. He stated. One such of my sorts are usually warranted an air of caution but allow me to state that I have no intention of escaping. As that soldier who visited me said so eloquently...I wouldn’t stand a chance.

“Y-yeah, I know. You’re smart enough to know that. Th-that… that’s why I think we should trust you.” Jessica took another deep breath, and stepped over her computer. After a series of keystrokes, a loud buzz came from the door to Asher’s cell. The two soldiers tensed up a bit, but Jessica raised a hand to calm them. Opening the door, she waved her hand towards an examination table. “This way… please.”

Asher stood up and slowly walked to the entrance, staring at the soldiers with a wary and examining glance. You...I remember you. He stated, looking directly at Sergio. You are the enemy combatant I nearly put down. One’s mistake is another’s gain in a sense.

“That it is.” Sergio held his stomach. “I was in surgery for nearly six hours, which is saying something with the technology we have here. If it wasn’t for said tech, even if I survived, I probably wouldn’t be able to fight any more.” He narrowed his eyes, and folded his arms. “Hmph… nice shot.”

Asher’s silence was all the response he gave to Sergio before turning his head forward and walking with Jessica. Sergio let out the slightest of grins as he followed after him.

“N-now, um… is there anything special I should know about your body before we begin?” Jessica asked.

Other than the missing vocal cords, my body was made for dexterity. It has been completely modded to fit this way, my endurance and agility much higher that of a normal person. Eye mods have also helped my sniping capabilities and I believe I have received an EXALT prototype implant, enhancing brain processing power, logic skills, and environmental and situational awareness, all fit into a single package. That should be as much of an accurate description I can give without you cutting me open and looking for yourself.

“Well, I don’t think that’ll be necessary.” Jessica held up an otoscope, examining Asher’s eyes and noting the familiar modifications. “So, uh… enhanced brain power, huh. Must mean you’re pretty smart. Must have… must have irritated you when I was talking to you like you were a child, huh?”

To be frank, much of my current situation irritates me. If I had just been allowed to terminate myself as my directive stated should mission parameters be failed to be met, I would not need to feel such irritation.

“Yeah… sucks when you can’t kill yourself,” Jessica stated sarcastically, then bit her lip. “I… I mean, um… you… you shouldn’t look at it like… l-like that. Um… what exactly were your parameters, if I might ask.” She moved on to his ears, making sure to write her findings down the way Ellie had instructed her to.

To kill the Exalt heiress and anyone else who stood in my way. Once those first sets of objectives were completed, I was to move on to the staff and civilians. No one was meant to be left alive. He stated grimly, though his face gave no hint of caring about what he was saying.

Jessica swallowed hard, trying to keep her expression neutral, though not very good at it. “Well, it… it isn’t like you decided to… t-to do it on your own. But, um…” She swallowed again, knowing she shouldn’t ask the question, but compelled to do so anyway. As she examined his face and neck, she asked, “What… w-what made you decide your mission was over? Why not… try to kill us, then try and sneak or fight your way to Elene?”

I would have attempted to if I had not been pinned down by that giant machine. Technically my mission isn’t over until I am either dead or have completed my objectives. It may not look like it but I have a high tolerance, I can suppress my more lethal urges but they are there none the less. A program that is nothing against you, it is just how it is.

“So… say Elene walked in right now. Weapons are down, the two of them are distracted. I’m obviously no threat.” Jessica frowned. “Does that mean you’d rush her and… I don’t know, snap her neck or something? Even if she was only here to help you?”

Asher contemplated the question. It is a possibility. That is the best analysis I can give.

“Hmph… you’re not as smart as you claim to be, then,” Alexia forced Jessica to blurt out, and Jessica immediately clasped her mouth. “I… I-I mean, I…”

Asher merely shrugged, What do I care the outcome of my well being? I only exist to fulfill my mission anyways and although the directive to go out and complete it is lost, the desire still remains. No one would miss me, not like I have sentimentality holding me back. Love is just a weakness that clouds one’s mind and leads them astray. I have no needs for attachments as I have none.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Jessica’s expression sank, though not out of fear, but sadness. “That… that’s a terrible way to look at life! You’re life is just as important as anyone else’s, no matter how or why you were born. You know, most of us aren’t born with a purpose hardwired into our brains. We have to figure it out for ourselves. I’m sure you could come up with something if you… you through off that defeatist attitude, forgot whatever stupid, suicidal mission Viktor programmed into you, and… a-and tried!” She sighed, not expecting him to understand. “Just… just take your shirt off. I need to check your breathing…”

He did as instructed but he was unfazed. You remind me of a person from on the base. She was a scientist much like yourself and she had... somewhat similar views as you, though less emotional about them. She tried to explain the same to me, but frankly I didn’t listen to her. She is dead now so there isn’t much more to say about her.

“Oh, I don’t know about that,” Jessica responded, placing the stethoscope against his chest. “You could tell me her name, for starters. And she must have meant something if you brought her up.”

She was no one that special, just an older woman who came in with the team of scientists. She was apart of the ones who were assigned with making me, if I am not mistaken she was the lead actually. Her name was... Hazel I believe. She was old, wrinkles, gray, not really someone I would expect to see when I first came out of the pod.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he continued. She told me that I reminded her of someone she lost once, and since I was her creation, she wanted me to be able to have the best chance of survival. Those implants I mentioned weren’t mentioned in my post surgery report. She kept it a secret so that I would have an edge should it come to me needing them. Little did I know that she was killed shortly after when her usefulness was served. I didn’t care all that much, why should I have, she was really no one that special to me, no matter what I may have been to her.

Jessica shook her head, slowly running her hands along Asher’s arms. “That’s a shame. You mentioned not having anyone to care if you were gone, but she was clearly one of them. I couldn’t help but picture a mother while you were describing her, trying to give her child everything she needed for success. Do you… have any idea who she was? I mean… none of the other clones had implants. Maybe she was somehow connected to Lusett.”

No idea. She was just some woman. I don’t see much point in recollecting over a dead person however, so this whole line of dialogue is basically pointless.

“Well, I don’t think it is pointless, and I do think it has a point. For all we know, she was someone close to Lusett. I’m going to ask Desmond. And if you don’t care, you don’t have to know. But I think you might find yourself curious when I find out and keep it from you.” She bit her lip. “Just… need to examine your legs, so… u-uh…”

What?

“I… I need you to…. um…”

“Take off your pants,” Alicia stated bluntly.

Asher just looked at the with a confused look. You should have just stated so. I don’t see why that would cause you to be nervous. Unbuttoning his pants he took them off and just still looked the same.

“Yeah, yeah… I’ve heard that before…” Jessica wondered if it was just a clone thing to question her bashfulness. “Well… I’m sorry that your life is so pointless. And I’m sorry we are being… just so deeply inconsiderate by not letting you either kill Elene or yourself. But you’re just gonna have to deal with it. If you don’t have a purpose, deal with it. We all have to find our place in this world. For some of us, it is pretty hard, and we have things that hold us back. But if we keep at it, we usually find something to make us happy, or at least content. There are people here that can help you, if you want. But if you push everyone away, then you’re just gonna find yourself stuck in a cell, alone and bored out of your mind…”

Asher was silent now, not wanting to argue with the woman anymore. If that is the life that awaits me... then so be it. A life not worth living is not a life at all. And what life did I have before this that would make the loss all that more painful? He simply stated.

Jessica smiled lightly as she motioned for the man to get dressed. “Well… I know you don’t mean that positively, but it was more positive than anything else you’ve said. Back there, you had a boss that didn’t care about you, a mission related to hurting people you didn’t even know, and nothing to look forward to but when you mission was over and you would die. Here, you have chance at a new beginning, former enemies that are willing to work with you, and a twin brother of sorts. I even suggested Elene try and clone a new tongue for you so you can speak on your own, giving you back the voice Viktor took away from you for the sake of that stupid mission. Now, what could be more symbolic of you becoming your own independent individual then that?”

This might be something you don’t want to hear but I don’t know if that is the best thing. I don’t wish to be in the debt of someone who once tried to kill me. Who is to say that I will not be forced into something because I had taken a hand out from a former enemy. I am not blind to such subversive tricks such as that.

“Hmm…” Jessica’s smile didn’t fade. “I thought you might feel that way. But I suggested she do it anyway. Hopefully, the fact that the offer is on the table will mean something.” Jessica placed a gentle hand on Asher’s shoulder. “We’re fairly patient around here. Take your time with it. We’re not blind to what Viktor put in your head. Heck, compared to that poor girl, you probably have it easier. At least you know what kind of person Viktor was. So just… take it one step at a time. Don’t try and force yourself to like us, just… try not to force yourself to hate us. You said it yourself, it was just a mission you were made for, nothing personal.”

Asher tensed a bit. Poor girl? Do you mean flower girl? The one that was turned into that machine?

“That’s right.” Jessica tilted her head slightly. “Why. You know her personally or something?”

Not personally, no. I know of her though. Tragic thing that, seeing her follow Viktor like a puppy. We were kept apart most of the time and nearly never talked to one another. I just thought I would inquire into her well being.

“Oh, really?” Jessica smiled. “It sounds to me like you care about her well being. You’re not as cold as you let on, and you have something in common with Elene!”

You mistake my intentions for anything more than just meek curiosity on another’s state of health. I didn’t know I was implying anything other than that simple fact.

Jessica noded as she led Asher back to his cell. “Alright, I can appreciate that. So, um… did you want me to… keep you updated on her. For the sake of curiosity, of course.”

It is not dire, but I would appreciate it regardless. Asher walked with Jessica with no problems but when they arrived, he stopped at the door. A final query before my containment again... if you don’t mind, but what, or should I say, who am I to you that you would care for the way I think about myself and others? I could boil it down to just a cruel joke you get a laugh out of later but observation of you and your being would lead me to suggest otherwise against that statement.

Jessica’s smile faltered, not for long, but long enough to be noticeable. “You… you shouldn’t…” She absentmindedly rubbed her bracelets, and shook her head. “You’re human, that’s all. No one should look down on others, and least of all, on themselves, like you seem to. To give up on life when you… you have so much potential. It would be a crime if I didn’t say anything. You shouldn’t… find your place for my sake, or Elene or Markus’ sake, or anyone else’s. You should find it for yourself.”

Hm… He stared at how she played with her bracelets and looked at her about to ask a question but instead turned and went back into his cell. Very well.

Jessica closed the cell. She placed her hand against the door, whispering, “You’ll… be okay.” She took her leave, the two soldiers following closely.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Frostlich1228 & ZombieSplitter53
First Timer

X-COM Headquarters
Primary Laboratory, Genetics Lab
Oct. 11th, 2100 Hours

Alexia slowly pulled the syringe away, smiling. “Thank you. Maybe we can… do something with this…”

Science somethings. And it is always better to have fresh blood the the dried, coagulated stuff.

“If you say so…” Alexia mumbled.

Then… can One have meat?

“Oh, yeah, sorry.” Alexia slip the dish into the incubators cage, this one significantly larger than the last one, and resembling an actual kennel. The alien feline sniffed the contents of the dish.

Is… is meat?

“Um… yeah, sure. I mean, the cafeteria said it’s a steak.” Alexia smiled nervously.

The incubator sniffed it again, and took a cautious bite. Its ears dropped, and it walked over to the corner, laying down and facing away. Is not meat…

“Sorry, buddy.” Alexia took the dish back. “I’ll see if Brigid can get me more cat food, and I’ll try and sneak you something from the bar.

Mary took a fews steps into the Gene-Lab with her sister following closely behind. The Gunner looked the large, empty tanks up and down curiously, before heading to find Jessica.

Ammelia looked up at her sister with a mixture of worry and uncertainty, “Are you sure you want to do this? These modifications will be with you for the rest of your life…”

“And?” Mary replied, “Se’ ‘eh get ‘uper ‘rengh ‘or th’ ‘est eh’ my ‘ife, eh’ ‘on’t see ‘eh problem wit’ ‘at.”

“But… What if people treat you differently because of them?” Ammelia countered.

“‘Eople al’eady ‘ink of meh’ different’ly. An’ ‘e’en if ‘at gets ‘orse ‘eh dun’t ‘eally care what ‘ey say.” Mary responded, seeing the young scientist working over by the cage.

Ammelia sighed, feeling a little defeated, but this was Mary’s choice and she knew she wasn’t going to be able to change her mind about it. When they reached Jessica, Ammelia’s eyes moved over to the small cat sitting inside the cage. She knew it was an Incubator, but this was the first time she had ever come face to face with one. “Uh… Jess?” Ammy spoke, trying to get her friends attention.

“Hmm?” Alexia looked up, and smiled.

Your girlfriend is here.

“She’s not my girlfriend,” Jessica snapped, then blushed a bit. “I-I mean… hey, Ammy.”

“Hey.” Ammelia spoke, giving her a friendly smile, “How’s Alex?”

“She’s a brat…” Jessica mumbled.

I know you are, but what am I?

“So, um… you wanna hang out? Or…” Jessica raised an eyebrow. “You interested in getting a gene-mod?”

Mary smirked at the two girls, before nodding, “‘Yeh, eh’m ‘ere te’ ‘et ‘ome gene-mods.”

“Oh, awesome.” Jessica smiled at Ammelia’s twin. “You’ve come to the right place. You… you came to the only place for it. What did you have in mind?”

“Eh’d ‘ike th Dex… ‘Exter…” Mary said, looking down at the words she wrote down on her piece of paper, “Je’ ‘ead ‘et yer’self.” Mary handed Jessica the paper with the gene-mods she had listen on it. It read, ‘Dextrous Muscle Fibers, Magnified Bicep Structure, and Secondary Heart.’

Jessica nodded. “The magnified biceps is a favorite amongst the gunners and heavies. Makes it easier to carry those heavy guns. You’ll be the only gunner with the dexterity leg upgrade, making you our speediest gunner. These two mean that you’ll be running all over the place, dodging attacks left and right, without your weapon weighing you down. And you’re the only one so far that has been willing to try out the secondary heart since we got it from those Muton Elites.”

Ammelia looked up at her sister, her look of concern only growing, “Secondary Heart?

Mary turned towards her, “Yeh’ ‘ef meh’ ‘irst ‘one ‘ops ‘orking ‘at’ll ‘eep ‘me ‘live for ‘while.”

Jessica gave Ammelia an encouraging smile. “That’s right. It’s basically an extension to the heart that takes over if something happens to it. It is only a temporary solution, but it’ll keep the soldier, like Mary here, alive long enough for someone to stabilize her if she gets hurt. So basically, these upgrades with help her avoid damage and fire back easier, with a back up should she get hit.”

“I… Okay…” Ammy responded, inhaling deeply, “I’m just a little worried, but, I trust you Jess…”

Jessica quickly stood up, and cupped Ammelia’s hands in her own. “Ammy… Ammelia… please understand, I know why you are nervous. I do. But please remember that I love you, and Mary, like you were my own sisters. I would never, ever, do anything that might endanger her. Swear on my life.”

Ammelia looked into Jessica’s eyes before nodding, “Okay… Thank you.”

Mary looked back over to the large pods, “Se’, ‘ow ‘ong’s ‘is gunna ‘ake ‘xactly?”

“Hmm…” Jessica looked around the room, noting the open pod. She closed her eyes, mumbling, “Legs and arms… then… chest…” She nodded. “Six days.”

“Six ‘ays?” Mary confirmed, “‘At ‘ong?”

“If you want them done right… though…” Jessica smiled. “For my friends, if I pull an all nighter or two, I can get your legs done I one. But the secondary heart needs a full three days, so I can get you in and out in four.”

Mary gave her a smile back, “‘Ounds good. Se’ de’ ‘eh just ‘ep into th’ pod or…?”

Jessica waved her hand up and down Mary. “Might wanna take that stuff off. No one likes soggy boots, and the meld stains clothes.”

Ammy blushed a little, “I’ll uh… Go somewhere else… and remember Mary, she’s taken.”

“Oesn’t ‘op meh’ from ‘itt’in on ‘er.” She replied, grinning.

Jessica chuckled, and patted her stomach. “Oh, you don’t want some pregnant lady anyway.”

“Why net’? ‘Oesn’t ‘ake ye’ any ‘ess cute.” The gunner responded as Ammelia exited the room.

Jessica opened up the pod as Mary started to disrobe. “Alright, so, just a quick nap, and you’ll be better then ever. I’ll remind you again when you get out, but take it easy at first when you’re done. There aren’t any side effects, but it takes some getting used to, and we don’t need you hugging your sister a little too hard.”

“Eh’key, E’ll ‘ake ‘ure te’ be ‘areful wit’ ‘ Ay’me too.” She nodded once, stepping into the pod.

As the pod slowly closed, and started to fill, the breathing apparatus automatically lowered for Mary. The sleep-inducing gas mixed in the oxygen taking effect, Jessica watch Mary until she was out. She quickly moved to her computer, prompting the surgery room for an early operation.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

X-COM Headquarters
Work Space of the Four Horsemen
Oct. 12th, 0815 Hours

"Commander O'Brian!" Conquest exclaimed, clapping his hands together. "To what do we owe... oh, congratulations on the successful defense of the base! We only regret we could not fight by your side, but you requested we stay out of it."

"And thank you for doing so," Morrigan responded. "And trust me, I know your pain. I wanted to fight too, but my first officer insisted I take shelter with the rest."

Conquest grunted, and fiddled with a few weapon components. "It is considered an obligation for a commanding officer to accompany his, or her, soldiers into battle amongst my people, usually at the front of the attack. To do otherwise is considered..." He shook his head. "Apologies, Commander. I forget my place. I did not mean to offend you or your first officer."

Morrigan frowned, but only shrugged. "It's fine. Different... cultures..." Looking to change the subject, she said, "I just came down here to check on your progress." She smiled as she scanned the now intact shuttle. "You do fast work."

"Why, thank you, Commander." Famine jumped down from the top of the ship, and cupped the Commander's hand. "That you should recognize the beauty and swiftness of my work... I am truely touched. Not surprising from such an obviously insightful one like you."

Morrigan laughed. "Wow, that... hit on twice in a week. I'm flattered."

"Don't be," Conquest muttered. "He's easily won over by any female that compliments his work."

"Oh, hush, you." Famine grinned. "Tell me, Commander. Do you believe in... true love?" He kissed her hand.

Morrigan smiled back, and lightly tapped his cheek. "That's sweet of you. But I'll have to pass, love. At least it's a man this time, but I'm afraid I'm not into men with... scales."

Famine's grin only widened. "I'm sure the loss is all mine. But you know where to find me if you change your mind." He jumped back onto the ship, and resumed his work.

Morrigan chuckled, and turned back to Conquest and War. "So, what's left?"

"Only thrusters and hyperspace relay," War answered.

Conquest nodded. "Our shield generator is better then ever, thanks to your Dr. Shen's suggestion."

"That rotating shield frequency thing is a great idea," Famine called down. "Who should we thank for that?"

Morrigan considered. "Um... Gene Roddenberry... at any rate, I'll leave you to it." She walked towards the exit, looking back as she said, "Next ship we take down, I'll make sure they send you your OOF!"

Morrigan collided with Death as the short Ethereal floated in. Commander! I... my apologies, I...

Morrigan laughed. "What are you talking about, that was my fault." She gave Death a grateful smile. "I never got to say thank you. You saved one of my people for sure, probably five in total. Seven, if you count Ms. Lockheart's twins."

What? No, no, I... I was merely... defending myself, I...

"Nearly killing yourself healing Ms. Francois was not simply defending yourself." Morrigan reached into one of Death's sleeves, lifting her upper right arm. "And I was informed you are willingly weakening yourself with this." The Commander placed her hands on Death's shoulders." I mean it when I say this. Thank you. And I'm sorry for any misconceptions I had when you first got here. If the other Ethereals were even half the good person you are, this war would have never happened."

Death slowly nodded. Th... thank you, Commander...

With a pat on the back, Morrigan walked out. Death watched her go before hanging her head. "Did you get it?" Conquest asked. After several seconds with no response, he raised his voice. "Death! Did... you..."

Death flung her lower left arm towards Conquest, a med-spray flying forward with enough telekinetic force to make his hand numb when he caught it. I assured the engineer that retrieved it for me that Famine and I would attempt to enhance it for them. I... I do not fancy the idea of deceiving those that are called our allies.

"Who said you were deceiving anyone?" Conquest quickly got to work dismantling the device. "You may attempt to improve on the design. That way, no deception..."

If that is so, then why will you not tell me why it was so important I retrieve this in the first place? How am I to believe I am keeping nothing from them when you are clearly keeping something from me.

Conquest didn't answer. Famine jumped down, and placed his hands on his hips. "You led me to believe she knew."

Knew what? What are you keeping from me, Conquest?

Conquest shot Famine a 'keep your mouth shut' look, but the reptilian alien ignored him. "He needs it for his little bioweapon."

What?! That data survived the crash? You... you were using me, without my knowledge and consent, for your...

"Your sentiment for our hated enemies is noted," Conquest stated bluntly. "But this is my decision, and you will follow my orders."

Who were you planning to use this on?

Conquest hesitated several moments before answering, "Only the Ethereals that refuse to surrender."

Death turned, heading for the door. I do not believe you.

"Where are you going?"

To speak to the Commander. She should know her part in genocide.

"Have you somehow forgotten who you are talking about?!" Conquest roared. "These are the vile monsters that have enslaved Famine's and my people. These are the beings that slaughtered War's people, all because they were afraid of their psionic immunity!"

Exactly my point! Death turned to face the raging Balmadaar. They feared a deadly foe, and resorted to genocide! You fear a deadly foe, and now you want to do the same! You can not use the humans for this without their knowledge!

As she turned again, nearing the exit, Conquest slammed his fist on the table before him, his hand inches to the right from one of his over-sized plasma pistols. "Death!" The Ethereal ignored him. "Jan’tiala, get back here!" The Ethereal neared the door, and his hand inched to left. " Jan’tialamacaria!"

Energy erupted from Death, enough to send a shiver down the spines of every psion in the base. Her psionic inhibitor responded by sending enough electricity through her to drop her to her knees. Famine ran to her side, but she slapped his hand away. She slowly floated to a standing position, her arms shaking with a combination of pain and rage as she turned to Conquest. How... DARE YOU... call me by that name?!

"What is the problem? It is your full name." Conquest folded his arms. "Oh... that's right. You cast off the part of your name that came from your father, because he decided you would be born into a life of experimentation. He altered your body to except the curse in full, blamed you when their precious Ascension was not obtain, and murdered your mother when she tried to remove you from an existence of torture. And now you have reservations about destroying a people that could conceive a being like him?"

Death shuttered in fury for a few minutes further. Finally, she hung her arms in defeat. Very well... you win.

Conquest relaxed a bit. "Good. Now, why don't you relax a bit. I heard they have a holographic recreation room. Try it out. You have been through a lot." Death nodded, heading out without another word. Conquest gave Famine a stern look. "Follow her. Make sure she does not endanger our plans."

Famine scoffed. "Yeah, I'll keep an eye on her. But only to keep her safe from... certain individuals..."

As Famine left, Conquest starred at the pistol for a few moments before turning his attention back to the med-spray, carefully extracting the nano-bots into a sterile solution, moving some of the solution to a Petri dish, and carrying it to a microscope.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSplitter53
"Two Souls, One Past: Part One"

X-COM Headquarters
Workspace of the Four Horsemen
Oct. 12th, 1300 Hours

After a rocky morning, Famine quietly adjusted the shields on the ship, Death occasionally sending a small psi lance to test them. He wished to discuss the earlier argument with the young Ethereal while Conquest was out, but he was unsure where War’s loyalties lied, the huge being as silent and difficult to read as always. Instead, he asked, “So… what did you do to relaxed.”

Death shook her head rapidly, as if coming out of a trance. What? Oh, I… I sampled some of the other programs for the humans. A forest, a mountain retreat, a beach. They were… pleasant.

Famine nodded. “I’ll have to check them out myself,” he said quietly before they resumed their work in silence.

Desmond strode into the workspace and looked around in half annoyance and half amazement. “Hello? Anyone here?”

Three heads turned in his direction. Famine looked between the other two aliens, who looked away. He shook his head, and stood up, mumbling to himself, "Fro ys E cittahmo uin yspyccytun?" The put on his best, and inadvertently creepiest looking, smile, and approached Desmond. “Hello. What can we do for you, Mr…?”

“Walker. Desmond Walker. I was in the middle of some work when me and every other psion on base felt a shock wave. At first I worried that Brigid had another tantrum but when I found her fine, there was only one other logical conclusion.” Crossing his arms, he raised an eyebrow. “Care to shed some light on this?”

Famine crossed his arms, almost in a mimicking fashion, and narrowed his eyes. “Listen, Mr. Walker, no one was hurt. So you don’t need to concern yourself…”

Don’t, Famine. Death floated over, bowing her head towards Desmond. I apologize, he is… protective of me. I was responsible for the shockwave, as you have obviously already deduced. I’m sorry, I… I am afraid I am not exempt from the occasional tantrum myself. I did not mean to disturb so many.

Desmond looked between the two and he nodded. “Alright. Just as long as it wasn’t for some other reason then no harm, no foul.” Dropping his arms to the side he smirked. “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse...always heard when you guys came to Earth it would bring on the end of the world. Never was a religious person though, just some knowledge that was thrown into my implants.”

Famine grinned back. “I read a bit on that myself, after we learned of our new names. I’d like to think we were summoned as part of the end of the world as judges to see if the end should come.” He turned his head as if he was examining the totality of the Earth. “My judgement? Not today. So now it is our job to help you make sure that doesn’t happen… and maybe get a bit of revenge while we’re here.”

Desmond was less focused on Famine and looked over Death, not warily but with more curiosity. “I guess I should say hello again Death. Our last meeting was brief if I recall, you seem less...well, less menacing close up and in the flesh.”

Death bowed her head again. I will take that as a compliment. I would again like to express my apologies for what might have seemed like an intrusive first meeting. Though I am happy that Commander’s daughter was unharmed. I hear it is largely, if not mainly, thanks to you and Miss Atka.

“What that little girl has gone through is more than anything a girl her age should experience. I am just glad we are able to keep her safe as best we can.” With a small grin, the psionic soldier held out his cybernetic hand. “Though without your warning, things may have ended differently. You will always have my thanks for that.”

Death watched his hand for a moment, seeming hesitant. Famine lightly nudged her, and she finally grasped his hand. I… I was glad I could help. And… I am grateful for your kind words.

“Some people see death as scary, an unknown that is meant to be feared but there is always another side of the coin. Some people see it as beautiful, as a peaceful thing that should not be feared or something to be scared about. I feel it implies to more than physical death if you know what I mean. You are different from your counterparts, and your actions have reflected positively on you.”

Th… thank you, Mr. Walker. Desmond could almost feel Death blushing under her cloak. I… I am not used to others being so kind to me, I… I am usually judged based on the actions of the… She paused for a moment. Mr… Mr. Walker, is there… any chance I could call upon you for a favor?

“Of course, I figure I owe you one by now.”

I would… I would like to speak with one of the captured Ethereals. The one you call Avaritia, preferably. But I am forbidden from coming within the vicinity of the laboratories, with reason of course. But you have some pull here. Could you… do this for me?

Desmond rubbed his chin. “I think that is in the realm of possibility. My fiance’s best friend is a lab tech so some of the people there know of me.”

Could we… go now? Our ship will be completed within a Earth week or two, and I do not want to miss my chance.

“Sure, I don’t see why not?” He looked to Famine. “I will be sure to keep her safe for you.” He stated sincerely.

Death rushed into the ship, and Famine nodded. “Alright. And… sorry if I was a little… becco… um, pissy.”

“You are protective, there is no harm in that. I would be amiss to say if I do not suffer from the same quirk as you.” He assured the Thin Man.

Famine smiled, and return to his work. Death returned to Desmond’s side, holding a rectangular object wrapped in a cloth. I am ready, Mr. Walker.

“Let us be off then. Just keep close and this should go smoothly.” Desmond turned and began to walk to the labs slowly. “So Death, I would like to know about you. Away from wandering eyes or unwanted ears while we have the privacy.”

Well, I… it is not the happiest of stories. I was born for the express purpose of forcing Ascension to happen, rather than letting it happening naturally. My… less decrepit appearance is a result of careful genetic modification to create an Ethereal who retained their mastery of psionics while returning to the healthy bodies our people had a long, long time ago. But even when I gained control of all six psionic spectrums, they still could not force me to Ascend. So they… experimented on me. On a raid of one of their Science Stations, Conquest’s father found me, and for the past… Death did some quick calculations in her head. ...seven years, I believe by Earth time, I have worked with the resistance, even though we have made little progress in our struggle.

Desmond listened intently to Death’s story and kept quiet as a trio walked past them. “Me and you are much the same in that regard. I am a clone myself, heavily modified to be a near perfect human creation. Though there were more...humble intentions behind my creation that was a big part of it. I lived among an elite group of warriors for about three years until I was forcefully taken away from it. For as long as I can remember I had at least some basic form of control of psionics. Though, at first, I didn’t use my powers because they were something strange, something new. Over time however I grew more powerful, fully unlocking my potential and even shifting from the purple spectrum to the red.” Holding up his cybernetic arm he added, “Lost this when the aliens assaulted Moscow. I was attacked and lost it. Fortunately for me, it was able to be given back.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Two Souls, One Past: Part Two"

Death looked up at the taller soldier. We have much in common, it would seem. Both of us were created to be manipulated by others, both of us have lost much because of the Ethereals, and… and both of us were taken away from something that gave us joy…

He looked down at the horseman. “You don’t have to tell me, though if you would like to get it off your chest I believe we have a bit more time before we arrive. We are not far now.”

Death looked down. It… it was my mother. She tried to sneak me out of the prison that was my home. She was mercilessly killed by the Commander of the facility, my… warden, so to speak. She was the only person who ever treated my like something more than an object, and… well, it is in the past now. I have new allies, and I have my freedom now, as well as a chance to make them pay. It is not much, but it is better than the life I left behind.

Desmond put a hand on her back. “Good on you. Although it wasn’t biological, I am accepting more and more the Exalts to be my family. Pretty soon I will be starting my own...hard to believe.”

Then, I hope we have one more thing in common. I transition into a better life.

The pair stepped into the main laboratory, several heads immediately turning their way. After a moment, Jessica stuck her head out of one of the side rooms to see what was going on. Spotting Desmond, she quickly walked up. “H-hey, Desmond. What, um… what’s going on?” She gave the Ethereal a cautious smile.

“I owed my companion here a favor. She would like to speak to one of the Ethereals.” He pulled her over to the side and leaned in to whisper. “Don’t worry, you know I can make sure they won’t do anything to one another. Can you just make an exception this one time for me? Don’t worry about Morrigan finding out, if she does I can talk her out of blaming you.”

Jessica looked around quickly. Not seeing Dr. Vahlen anywhere, she nodded. “Follow me.” Leading them through the labs, she said, “I owe her one two. Just make sure you listen to everything they say.” She looked down at Death. “No secret conversations.”

I give you my word.

“Thanks for this Jess. I will be sure to tell Ellie you said hi later.”

Entering Avaritia’s ‘room’, Jessica left them to their own devices, but stayed nearby, just in case. The Legion androids took a step forward at the sight of Death, but relax when they recognized Desmond. Death stopped in front of Avaritia’s cell, the older Ethereal turned away, as though ignoring them. Death floated forward a bit, then suddenly sulked back, as if she had lost her nerve.

Desmond looked between Death and Avaritia with a slightly confused look. Stepping forward and clearing his throat, he finally spoke up. “I believe the proper thing to do is at least acknowledge our presence. Ignoring us will not make us go away.”

Avaritia slowly turned. Apologies, I seem to have lost my manners. I… have lost my taste for judgmental visitors so much, I have become quite the rude one. His head shifted to the side, directed towards Desmond’s arm. You are Desmond Walker, are you not?

“I am, though how did you know? We have never met before and I doubt I am a popular conversation piece for your visitors.”

No, but before you’re shields kicked out Invidia… The Ethereal leaned down slightly. And I’ll thank you for that. He was delightfully miserable about it. Anyway, he was keeping an eye on a number of individuals here. Just as you surely have files on all of us, we had files on you, or at least, those of interest. Your Commander, her right hand. The Inuit woman, a couple sniper, and couple gunners, some of your infantry, and so on. About a dozen or two, I’d say. And, of course, the man with the metal arm, who dared to face Zemsis head to head, and lived. Regardless of how successful your attack was, you at least caught his attention. Not necessarily a good thing, mind you, but it could be worse. You could have caught Invidia’s ire like the Inuit did.

“Zemsis? I can’t say I have heard that name before?” Thinking back, Desmond remembered who he might be talking about. “You mean the Ethereal from the first base defense? I must say he was definitely one of the harder enemies I have fought.”

Indeed. He is too proud to admit it, no matter what he says, but I am not; I was impressed. Though it isn’t the first time. You humans are full of surprises. When you are brought into our fold, you will surely be our greatest allies, if you do not surpass us entirely.

“Proud…” Desmond smirked. “This Zemsis is Superbia? Makes sense I guess… had that certain air about him.” Desmond’s smirk vanished almost as soon as it appeared. “But enough idle chat, I came here for a reason and she is right in front of you.”

Avaritia looked down at the smaller figure, noticing her for the first time. Does this individual have some business with me? You… He paused, as if realizing something he had missed before. That… energy. You… are you an Ethereal?

Death slowly pulled back her hood. I am. And I have come to ask...

What is the meaning of this!? Avaritia looked at Desmond. What is this? Who is this… child?

“You tell me, judging by your reaction I would say you already know who this, ‘child’ is.” He put emphasis on the word child, clearly not seeing Death as anything childlike even though he might in comparison.

She… she is the Ethereal working with the so called Horsemen? Avaritia waved his hand, as if trying to dismiss what was clearly before him. The… the traitor could not be so young, he… she… what is this? I don’t… no, one couldn’t have mastered all six colors at such a young age, even if they stole our research and… a-and somehow replicated… who are you? What… what are you?

I am exactly what you see, and unless you believe your eyes to deceive you, there is only one person I could possibly be. So you should…

Silence! Avaritia turned around, rapidly shaking his head. This… this is a lie. A trick! You can’t… what is this game you play at, Walker?! Did Foulke tell you of my inability to read and control minds, and you came up with this… deception to… t-to fuck with me?!

You should have read my ‘file’. I am not adept with deception, especially of this sort of level. “Now turn around and look at her, Greed.” Desmond told the Ethereal, using his english name out of spite.

I will look upon her, if only to see another reason why I might have been wrong about… you… h-humans… As Avaritia turned, Death slowly pulled away the cloth from the object she had been carrying, revealing an Ethereal mask, one too small for her, but looked as though it would fit if she was smaller. You… you’re… you’re dead, you… you can’t…

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Two Souls, One Past: Part Three"

I am not dead. I was rescued from you… savages. Now, tell me. Thantos'mictlanmacaria. Where is he! Is he still with you? Still… still moving up your ranks using the death of those in his way as stepping stools?!

Avaritia shuttered. You… you can’t be. You’re supposed to… to be…

ANSWER ME!

Desmond stood by her side, placing a hand on her shoulder and staring at her with a look that was as equal stern as it was understanding.

Avaritia shook his head. You, he… he is… finished with his accent. He is… he is the high Commander of the Ethereal army. The highest ranking Ethereal outside of the capital. He… he said you were killed in the attack on the station seven years ago…

I’m sure he did. Why would he admit that the supposed hope for the Ethereals to obtain Ascension was a willing aggressor? Especially when reports of my death, and a seduced Ethereal defiling my name by stealing my abilities, would make the rest of our kind so willingly merciless on the resistance. I don’t suppose he ever told you how my… ‘training’ was performed, did he?

Avaritia shuddered, and looked away again. I… I can’t… please, I…

We are done here. Death put her hood back on and headed for the exit, stopping halfway there to make sure Desmond was following.

Taking one final glance at the prisoner, he turned and followed Death this time, looking at her a little worried. “Death…” He began, walking with her but waiting till they were out of public, even then not knowing what to add after that display.

As they stepped out of the lab and headed back to the Horsemen’s room, Death looked up at Desmond. Please, Mr. Walker. Speak your mind. I… I do not desire to keep quiet after such an encounter.

“This is probably a redundant question, but will you be all right? After something like that your head must be swimming and if you wish, I am here after all right now.”

Death held a hand to her head. I… I will admit, I am… a bit fazed. The news that such a vile man should lead our enemy comes as quite a shock. I… I would have hoped he would have been exposed with by now. She slowly pulled her hood down a bit, as if peaking out towards. “I… I could use a suggestion to… take my mind off of things, as it were,” she said out loud.

“I have a quiet place we could go that is not too far. We can speak freely in there.” Doing as suggested, he led her quickly through engineering and through the heavy metal doors into the private lab, shutting them and looking back at the Ethereal. “Welcome to my workplace.” He said, looking around at the rather large space. “We are completely alone in here and the door is lock with a palm scanner. Not many people can come in at their own free will, even less so...recently…” He shook his head, pulling out a tall stool for the guest and taking a seat of his own.

Death floated up to the stool taking a seat. “Thank you, Desmond.” Her smiled brightened a little more. “Perhaps we could pass the time with some more sharing. I want to know all there is to know about you, and in turn, I can talk about myself. I… would like very much to learn more about humanity. And I can tell you some of the few good things I know about my people in turn.”

“Well, if you want a life story mine will be pretty short. Looks may be deceiving but I haven’t been alive for all that long. Nine years it would be now since a little friend of mine so blatantly gave me a new birthday when we couldn’t find mine.”

“That is okay, Desmond.” Death folded her hands. “I am sure however long it is, I will find it interesting.” She settled in, eager to hear anything and everything Desmond could tell her.

“Well…” Desmond began his story from the very beginning, as far back as he could remember from his first days out of the cloning pod. He told her how he had felt about his life before XCOM, about his time spent in Japan. He told her about his first days at XCOM and how things had transpired to end him up where he was today, one of the top soldiers, an adept red psion, and soon to be married man. “Turned out longer than it had appeared in my head, but that is really the gist of everything.”

Glancing up at the clock, he silently cursed and jumped up from the stool. “One second, need to take care of something.” Going over to a locker, he pulled open the doors and reached in, grabbing a few small vials filled with orange liquid. Taking off his shirt, he removed the armband from his right arm and replaced the nearly depleted ones with fresh ones. While his shirt was off, the full range of his scars were in plain sight, the abnormal amount already added on by the latest defense.

Death reached up, running her hand across a faded scar on the side of her head. “Are you… sick? Is there anything I can help with?”

He glanced at her quickly before closing the panel. “No, I got it. I have this condition where the white blood cells in my body attack my organ tissue. The concoction in these acts as a substitute for those tissues. Doesn’t happen often, but if it happens when I am not prepared…” He looked and her and gave a weak grin. “Well, it just won’t be good.” Putting the armband back on, he picked up his shirt off the table.

“Hmm… sounds like something genetic. I’m afraid my green psionics can’t fix that…” She shook her head. “At any rate, I promised I would talk about my people, did I not. That is… if you are still interested.”

Chuckling, he put his shirt back on. “I am not that much of a narcissist. Of course I am still interested.” Sitting down, he looked at Death with a slightly tilted head. “You can take the hood off in here. I promise no one will see. Besides, even if you are...ashamed of your origins, a woman like you shouldn’t hide that.”

Death did so, and took a deep breath, not used to talking about herself much, and unsure where to begin. “I… I was born on a research station orbiting my home world, and for the longest time, the only one I had to talk to was… the woman I would one day find out was my mother…”

 

[Dahlexpert]

Dhalexpert & Zombiesplitter 53

family concerns & future promotions

X-COM Headquarters

Civilian Staff Barracks, Room of Jean & Jeanne Francois

Jeanne sighed as she watched her brother run back and forth across the room. “Please, Jean, stop. I told you, I’m fine. You don’t need to…”

“Nonsense.” He fluffed the pillow under her feet. “You were hurt, and now, you should be pampered. It is my duty as your brother, and a gentleman. And if you choose not to return to work tomorrow…”

“I could have returned to work the next day,” Jeanne mumbled.

“Whether your wounds were healed or not, it was still traumatic.” He checked the glass by her bedside to make sure it was filled as the hundredth time in the past five minutes, and desperately looked for something to do for her. “Are… are you sure there is nothing more I can do for you.”

“Yes, please…” Jeanne rubbed her eyes. “Stop… spoiling me…”

There was a knock at the door “Hello, a blue haired super soldier is here to visit. Is there anyone home?” Jean opened the door. “Thank you darling, what’s up, Jeanne, how are…” Eva notice Jeannes wound. “What happened?”

“Nothing, Eva.” Jeanne pulled her shirt down, trying her best to cover the bandage. “Just a little… accident.”

“Accident.” Jean shook his head. “Jeanne was shot. Gauss rifle shot to the gut.”

“Jean,” his sister muttered in a half annoyed, half whining voice. “Don’t…”

“She jumped in the way to save me,” Jean folded his arms. “And after we had argued. I own my life to her, and she wishes to deny me the chance to at least pamper her a bit.”

Eva had a blank look on her face “So you got shot, hm? Are you okay? Was there any damage to your lungs or kidneys, or your stomach?”

“No, Eva I…”

“Yes.” Jean turned to Eva, as if trying to get her support. “He insides were all sorts of messed up. She died, I… I felt her slip away in my arms. The only reason she is here now is because the petite Ethereal healed her.”

“Wow, the grim reaper is slipping. First me, now Jeanne. Well, I guess we did send him hundreds of aliens as payment so there’s that.” Eva looked at Jean and saw the worry in his eyes. “Sigh, look Jean, I understand you're worried about your sister. Anyone would after seeing their sister die in there arms. But you do need her to go back to work, have her go back to what she knows best. That should help her forget that experience, even though she won't.”

“And I agree,” Jeanne said bluntly. “But he refuses to believe that out of guilt. He wants to baby me because I was shot pushing him out of the way, refusing to realize he would have done the same for me, and because… because we had an argument right before it happened.”

“Hum, and dare I ask what this argument would be about?” Eva thought for a moment. “Wait, does he know about the engineer?”

Jean sighed. “I do now. And again, I…”

“...am sorry?” Jeanne asked. “Yes, I know. You have only apologized a million times.” Jeanne looked at Eva, shrugging. “He said some… unflattering things when he found out. But I know he was simply upset, and he is only being protective.”

“Well, no more.” Jean knelt by his sister’s side, grasping her hand. “You are an adult, as you said. You may see anyone you wish. I promise I will hold my tongue.”

Jeanne smiled sheepishly. “Well, I… I don’t mind if you say… a little bit. I love the idea of my brother looking out for me. Just don’t be… too protective, alright?”

Eva put her hand on Jean’s shoulder. “I agree, just be the good brother you already are. But don’t be too protective, because that would only drive her away from you, Jean. But baby steps, Jean, baby steps.” Eva kissed Jean on the forehead” But you’re good, Jean.”

“Thank you,” Jean said, tapping Eva on hand, and Jeanne smiled at her.

“I’m… not interrupting anything, am I?” Morrigan asked, sticking her head in through the open door.

“Ah!” Eva yield, shocked to see the Commander. “C-Commander, w-what are you doing here?”

Morrigan held up a hand. “At ease, please, I’m only here to check on my injured head of my psi labs, and make sure she is okay to return to work tomorrow.”

Jeanne nodded. “Thank you, Commander. And I am.”

“Good.” Morrigan smiled at Eva. “Actually, since I have you, do you mind if we… have a quick word?”

“Um, sure thing, Commander. I’ll be right with you two in a moment.” Jean stepped out of the room. “So, Commander, what do you wish to talk about?”

Morrigan folded her arms. “It is about your command work during the base defense. Tell me, Eva. How do you think you did?”

“Um, I did the best that could do. I want to say I did a good job. I mean, we didn't lose anyone, and when our leader was down for a little bit, I told our Muton ally to get him out of there. So I think I did a good job.”

Morrigan nodded. “I… agree with you, Eva. You have some room for improvement, need to keep your temper in check a little better, but I was impressed. You used your soldiers effectively, made sure everyone was doing something. You watched their backs, and knew to keep your injured in cover. I… I think you did well, Eva. For you first command, at least, you could have done a lot worse. I’m just sorry it had to be under such a stressful, unpredictable mission.”

“Actually I think that helped, I mean my father told me the best way to show leadership is to take a situation that you're not prepared for and find some way out of it. So I think this was the perfect opportunity to prove I can lead.”

Morrigan chuckled. “Well, we you put it that way, I guess it is. Was your father part of the military?”

“Yes. Thirteen years in the military, before I was born. After I was born, he still wanted to defend his country. He loved the military so much he couldn't stand just sitting around. But he did settle down and married my mom, and when I was ten, we went back to the military, so most of the things I know come from him.”

“Where is he now?” Morrigan asked, leaning against the wall. “If… you don’t mind me asking.”

“He’s most likely still in Switzerland, General and all. Though he probably thinks I’m dead for... reasons.” Eva shook her head, “Look. can we stop talking about my father and get back to what you were saying to me, please,” Eva said with some sadness in her voice.

Morrigan nodded. “Alright, I understand. At any rate, you said if I gave you a chance, I wouldn’t be disappointed, and I wasn’t. You did a fine job. I don’t want to sound patronizing or anything, but… I’m proud of you, Eva. You’ve improved a lot since you first came here.”

“Thank you Commander. Actually, I owe a lot to my friends. But mostly two people, that French bastard sitting on there for giving me a new purpose in life, and Ashley, for slamming me for not doing this sooner and giving me the boot I needed to ask for the opportunity. So thank you, Jean,” Eva yelled. “I still can’t believe I love that man.” Eva said with a smile.

Morrigan smiled back. “Well then, I’ll leave you to your devices.” She walked down the hallway, waving back. “Keep up the good work, Eva. I’ll be counting on you.”

“Wait. so you're actually making me a squad leader an officer?”

Morrigan looked back. “Next mission, I’ll be giving you another unit to lead. You do as well there as you did this time, and that officer position is yours.”

Eva couldn't help but smile and salutes the Commander. “Thank you, Commander. I promise you won’t regret this, I swear it.”

“I know I won’t,” Morrigan called back.

Jean stuck his head out into the hallway. “Everything alright? You look pretty happy.”

Eva couldn't help but hug Jean. “Yes I am. I got an opportunity to lead during the base assault, and the Commander was impressed by me. So impressed that she’s giving me another chance to lead, and if I succeed, I’ll become an officer.”

“Well, that’s great,” Jeanne said, standing next to her brother. “You two should go out to celebrate. Maybe get some dinner.”

“I would love that, but is it okay with you, Jean? I mean, I know you're worried about your sister, so will it be okay with you?”

“Please, go!” Jeanne pushed Jean closer to the door. “I’ll be fine, really. You need to…”

“Okay, okay.” Jean ruffled her hair, earning a slap to his hand. “If you insist, I’ll leave you be. But get some rest. And no boys over. You’re in no condition to entertain.” Jeanne rolled her eyes, and he laughed.

“Don’t worry Jeanne, I’ll keep your brother entertained long enough for you to do whatever you want,” Eva said with a smile.

“Thanks, Eva.” Jeanne quickly pushed her brother out, and closed the door.

Jean shook his head. “Why do you have to encourage her?” He asked in a serious tone, but his expression said he wasn’t being serious.

“Who said I was encouraging her? I told the Commander that I owed some of my success and what I am now to you. So I do plan on showing you that appreciation. Plus, I think we could both us a distraction, don’t you think?”

“Oh, is that so?” Jean wrapped an arm around her waist. “So, what did you have in mind to… distract me?”

“Well if things go great, and as I plan…” Eva moved closer to Jean. “And if my partner is not in his room, I can think of a few ways to entertain you. Then again, I could just let you go and have a boring night.”

Jean nuzzled his nose against Eva’s. “Oh, such a tease. Come on, let’s go grab a quick bite, and check on that room of yours.”

“Heh, always the gentleman, I truly am luck to find you Jean.”

“I was just thinking the same thing about you,” Jean responded.

 

[MarineAvenger]

Serenity

Desmond's eyes fluttered open and he shot up quickly, feeling the grass beneath him and the cool kiss of warmth from the sun as the rays of light broke through the branches filled with green leaves. Looking around, he saw he was in the middle of seemingly nowhere. When trying to look back and remember how he had gotten there, his head swam and he covered his face with a hand as he waited for the queasiness to subside. Going slowly, Desmond rose to his feet and looked around again, the land sprawling out in a flat, grassy plain in front of him while the cool darkness of the dense forest behind him loomed in serenity.

He shook his head and took a step forward cautiously, still unsure where he was.

"It is about time you have come. I was beginning to fear you would never appear." A voice called from behind the tree.

Desmond's body twisted around and he took a defensive stance. "Who is there?" He called out.

A boy appeared from behind the tree, wearing simple clothes of olive cargo boxers and a white tank top. His chestnut colored hair was grown out but didn't fall far past the neck, brown eyes looking lively back at Desmond as if he was seeing an old friend for the first time in years. He had a youthful face, looking no more than nineteen and had some muscle on him. He leaned against the tree on his shoulder, a red apple in his hands that he quickly took a bite out of with an audible crunch. "You know," He took time to chew before swallowing and taking another big bite. "You ought to have better punctuality."

Desmond didn't loosen up. "Who are you?" He asked sternly.

The teen waved his hand dismissively. "Not important. What is important is that you are here now." Taking a final bite, he threw the apple behind him and turned around. "Come on." He walked into the dense forest, almost vanishing from sight as he walked into the trees.

The soldier quickly followed after him, bumping into the trees and crashing around, not caring for anything but get eyesight back on the person. He slowed his pace as light began to shine out in front of his and as he walked from the treeline, a large glittery lake sat in the middle of the large clearing of trees, the forest making a ring around the premises. It almost seemed like a scene straight out of one of his novels.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" The voice called out again, this time the teen sitting on a rock to the left of Desmond. "I come here all the time. I enjoy the peacefulness of it." He stated, as if he was relaxed and didn't have a care.

"Where...?"

"You ask a lot of questions, you know that? You should just enjoy the place."

There was a slight breeze and Desmond close his eyes, the weather quite refreshing. "I have to admit...this is pretty nice."

"See what happens when you loosen up?" The teen leaned over to the side of the rock and two rods were in his hands. "You fish?"

"Uh...I never have gone personally." Desmond told him, looking at the boy.

He shrugged his shoulders. "You will pick up on it." He hopped off the rock and walked to the lake, in no real rush.

Desmond watched the teen and he let out a deep sigh, looking around again before running after him. Even though the boy's pace was slower, he was already at the lake by the time Desmond caught up and the boy handed him the rod, already baited and set up. He clambered onto another flat rock and wound the rod back and flicked it forward, landing nearly in the center of the lake. Desmond repeated the action, his not nearly going as far.

"Not bad...for a first time at least." He reached down again and pulled a long piece of grass that grew on the side of the rock and put it in his mouth. "It is even better of you calm down. Fishing is all about being calm, just going with it." He sat there in silence, just staring out at the lake with a hint of a smirk on his face.

Desmond shook his head, and looked rather annoyed at his line.

"Just relax." The teen instructed.

Sighing he tried his best, loosing up and taking a seat next to the rock. It was a good while until Desmond grew bored and looked around again, this time really looking. Two dragonflies danced around each other near by, their wings making a faint humming noise as a frog looked at them go, seeming to have a tough time deciding which one to go with first. Across the lake, two white rabbits were nestling together, one smaller than the other and occasionally getting up and hopping around. Desmond tensed again as he saw blue eyes pierce the darkness of the tree line, a faint gray body outlining the body, a pack of others behind it.

"Don't worry about them, they are harmless as long as you leave them alone. Haven't bothered me as of yet." The teen said, not even breaking his stare at the lake. Birds chirped in the trees, Desmond having to look around to see where the source of the tweeting was coming from. When he finally found it a small group of five birds lined the branches.

"You tend to get lost in it all, huh?" The teen asked Desmond, glancing in his direction briefly as he asked the question before bringing it back to his line.

"Yeah it just seems...too good to be true."

The teen shrugged his shoulder. "That is why I like it. One of the few last sanctuaries."

More silence ensued as Desmond got a better handle on the whole fishing thing and he finally began to loosen up for real. "Do you know how I got here? Why I am here?"

The teen shrugged again. "I wouldn't know, only you could have brought yourself here."

"Well why are you here then?"

"Cause I enjoy the escape. Helps me forget about life. It is something I have had need more and more as time went on. Now I just finally spend all my time here."

Desmond looked up at him confused. "What about your family? Won't they miss you?"

"Maybe, though mine really aren't around anymore. The ones that were I pushed away until it all became a bit too much. So eventually I had to leave, for both my sake and my family's."

"That sounds pretty crappy."

A third shrug.

"You should at least try and go back to at least reconcile with them." He suggested. "Maybe they will forgive you?"

"I don't know. I said some pretty nasty things to them and I did some things I weren't proud of. Maybe in time one of them will forgive me but for now, we need our space."

Desmond reeled in his line and tried another attempt at casting the line, this time getting it right.

"Nice."

"Thanks." Desmond responded. He was silent a few moments but looked back up at the teen. "Well I am sure no matter what happened, your family still loves you. Family fight, and no matter how hard things may seem, family always stick together."

"A regular family man you are, aren't you?"

"I don't need to be a family man to know that is true."

"Maybe you are right...maybe one day..."

Desmond's line quickly snapped and he was jerked forward, grabbing the reel and turning it as fast as he could while pulling the rod back. Even the teen next to him seemed excited, both of them getting to their feet to see the prize. When it finally came ashore, a big bass flopped around on the end of the line and the boy whistled. "Not bad..."

Desmond chuckled, earning one from the teen and the two looked at each other, their eyes truly meeting for the first time. The breeze blew again and the boy looked up. "Damn...guess I should get going."

Desmond looked at him confused, the teen taking the rod from his hand and swing it along with his over his shoulder, the fish still attached. "We should do this again sometime. Fishing is always better with company." The boy walked away and Desmond stared at him as he neared the treeline.

Desmond put his hands to his mouth and shouted out. "You never told me who you were! Where are we?"

The boy turned around just as he neared was in front of the trees and walked backwards into them. "You tell me Desmond!"

The boy vanished into the trees and Desmond took a step forward to go after him.

***

Desmond sat up, his body covered in a cold sweat and he looked around the dark room quickly, a small figure stirring next to him as Ellie breathed lightly in a deep sleep, her arm held around his waist and her body pressed close to his. "That's right...I spent the night in her room."

Desmond rubbed his forehead of some of the perspiration and laid back down on the bed, wrapping his arms around the girl, closing his eyes.

That couldn't have been real...it was just a dream...wasn't it?

 

[Adrammalech]

// INTERLUDE //
Emily Fischer
The Dreamscape
October 13, 2018 – 3:14 AM

Emily sat calmly on the edge of the platform in her mind, looking down at the Ethereal city below her. She slowly sifted through the Ethereal ideas in her mind, trying to figure out what the ‘entertainment facility’ she visited with Luxuria looked like on the outside. She was able to attach the subtle feelings she felt with each place. Curiosity was laboratories, comfort was spas, reminiscence was homes. Figuring out what they looked like on the inside was more difficult, and she would try to stop from thinking about it too hard or an ache would start to grow in her head. Suddenly, an image of Kieran materialized next to her, in the same pose. He looked over at her and smirked at her efforts.

You look like you’re having fun. Still think you can figure out everything from Luxuria’s life?

It’s in my head, isn’t it? I’m going to get everything I can and forget the rest.

That’s the spirit. Luxuria has a lot to give us. We should take what we can and then get rid of her.

‘Get rid of her’? What do you mean?

Uh…kill her? Flush her? Shock her to death? Whatever you want to do?

She’s fine where she is. What’s the point of killing her?

Because she won’t be useful anymore. Things that aren’t useful…well, aren’t useful. I don’t know how to explain this better.

Luxuria is…coming around. And I thought these illusion things were Luxuria, but you can't be if I'm in England!

What? No, no, what illusions?

There was one with my mom, and then Elene was taunting me...and now you're here, and your voice is all wrong.

No, it's me, really. The fellow stowaway smiled, putting his arm comfortingly around her. I’m just worried about you. You’re thinking of all of these people, the Ethereal, your roommates – your real ones, not the new ones – the other soldiers like they’re people and friends. They’re assets, to be used.

What are you talking about? I’ve decided who I trust and who I don’t a long time ago, and most people on that base are my friends now.

Including an alien? Who tried to rape and possess you? Don’t get me wrong, you were right to use her, but now you’re talking about letting her live…

Not…let her go, but not execute her. Maybe she could be an ambassador to the other ones, you know? So we could have peace?

Leave the politics to the paper-pushers. Trust me. This thing won’t end in peace.

Is it wrong to want peace? Even if it’s not…practical?

He sighed and nudged close to her, beaming a warm and radiant grin towards her.

It’s not. You always were driven. I thought that part of you might’ve faded once I left you on your own. The ideals and the romanticism.

No, it didn’t change me, not that much anyway. I’m just way better at hiding it now...or at least I was.

You know, I always missed you once I left. I thought that if I stayed with you, we could be…I have no idea what you’d call it. International lovers? Like married, but way more badass, adventuring all over the world…stealing, learning, playing with each other all day and then cozied up at night.

I always thought the same thing… Emily smiled shyly.

I know.

The image gave her a kiss, his lips unfulfillingly impalpable. After he pulled away, he vanished, bursting into wispy clouds of pink and leaving Emily alone with her thoughts. She sighed, flushing and frustrated at being fooled again, just wanting to wake up and do something else.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

X-COM Headquarters
Room of Commander Morrigan O'Brien
Oct. 13, 1100 Hours

"Alright, Brigid. Let's see what you've got." Eve examined the series of paintings before her, happy to put all those art classes to some use, as they had failed to improve her lack of artistic talent. This did little to help with that, though, as she found herself jealous of the seven year old child next to her.

As Eve moved from the landscape to the picture of Brigid's cat, then to the abstract painting of Central Command, Brigid tilted her head slightly. "Are... are they okay?"

Eve chuckled. "They... they're amazing, actually. I mean... I'm not sure they are art house material, but... they obviously show talent. You did all of these using your telekinesis?"

Brigid nodded. "Yep. Mr. Desmond said he'll help me train with it, but I did these to do it by myself. It was mommies idea." She pointed to a painting of Desmond, and another of Atka. "Accept these two. I wanted to do them with my hands."

"Well... I'm envious." Eve smiled down at the short artist. "Better then I could ever do." She took Brigid's hand. "Come on. Lunch time."

As they walked through the hallways, Brigid looked around at the various soldiers walking by. "Everyone looks happier then before."

Eve nodded. "Moods are up. We're on the road to winning this war. At least that's what I think, and it looks like I'm not the only one." The two stepped into the mess hall and got their food, even their meals looking happier, or at least healthier, then usual. Taking a seat, Eve asked, "So, um... how is your mother doing?"

Brigid shrugged. "She's okay. But... she seems upset sometimes."

"About what?" Eve asked, not wanting to pry, but not wanting to miss something about Morrigan that she wouldn't be able to learn from Morrigan herself.

Brigid looked around, as if making sure they weren't being watched. In a low voice, she said, "She gets sad whenever she talks to the... to the dark, scary man on the computer."

"What does this... dark, scary man look like?"

Brigid shook her head. "I don't know. His face is always dark, and whenever he comes on the computer, mommy tells me I have to leave."

"Oh... that dark, scary man."

"Except, I... I heard them talk once," Brigid whispered.

Eve raised an eyebrow. "You did? I thought your mother always made you leave."

"Mommy thought I was asleep, so she didn't make me leave," Brigid answered. "She and the dark man talked about the guns, and the aliens, and somebodies pennies." She bit her lip. "Mommy was okay, until..."

"Until what?" Eve lowered her head. "You can tell me."

"Until they started talking about the clone lady."

Eve blinked a few times. "The clone lady? You mean Elene?" Brigid nodded. "What were they saying about Elene?"

"The dark man said we shouldn't trust her." Brigid shook her head. "Elene is a nice lady, and mommy kept telling him that. But he said she might... b... bedtray us."

"When was this?" Eve asked, taking a small bite but too interested to pay much attention to her food.

"A while ago. I don't think mommy has talked to him since the attack, though."

Eve smiled. "Well... I'm sure the dark man will be happy with one of our big bad guys gone. So don't worry too much about it."

The two resumed their meal for a while, Eve trying to move subjects off of things that upset Brigid to happier topics, like Brigid's paintings and Desmond's wedding. After a while, she noticed Brigid drooping eyes. "You tired, Brigid? Didn't you just wake up from a nap."

Brigid slowly nodded. "I... keep getting tired really easy. But I'll be okay in a little bit." She smiled, and her eyes opened full, as if she was wide awake again. She started to say something more, but instead let out a loud sneeze. She wiped her nose, and looked up at Eve, her eyes widening at the sight of the last of her food covering Eve's face, her tray having accidentally flung forward with telekinesis. "Oh, I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..."

Eve laughed, wiping her face off. "It's okay, Brig. You just need a little more practice."

"Yeah... practice." Brigid looked down sadly.

"Really, don't worry about it." Eve stood up, taking Brigid's hand again. "Anything you wanna do to cheer you up?"

Brigid shrugged, then thought for a moment. "Mommy would probably say no, but can I see the captured Eth... Etherinals? I wanted to see what the big ones look like."

Eve nodded. "Of course, Brigid." She quickly pulled Brigid along, heading for the labs.

"What?" Brigid looked around nervously. "Really? Are you sure I won't get in trouble?"

"You can see the Etherinals. You can see what the big ones look like."

Brigid's eyes widened. "Wait... what if mommy yells at you?"

"Don't worry, Brigid. Let's go let Brigid see the Etherinals..."

Brigid tried to stop moving, but Eve pulled her along. The girl yanked her hand away, and Eve turned to her, kneeling down. As she looked into Brigid's eyes, Brigid could see a faint violet glow. "I don't want to see them any more!" She shouted.

The glow faded from Eve's eyes, and she looked around in confusion. "Where... what were we doing again?"

Brigid sighed. "You... you were bringing me back to my room..."

"Oh... right..." The two headed back to Brigid's room. Eve wondered why her companion was being so quiet, but didn't say anything, figuring she was just tired.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

MarineAvenger & ZombieSplitter53
"Practice, Practice, Practice"

X-COM Headquarters
Holo-training Room
Oct. 13, 1200 Hours

Brigid slowly stepped out of the elevator, Desmond walking close behind her. The last time she had been here, it had been full of people hiding from the attack. Now that it was just the two of them, the sheer size of the room was nearly overwhelming for the young child. She smiled up at her escort and, today, psionic trainer, Morrigan having asked him to help her with her telekinesis, if for vague reasons. “Do you train down here a lot, Mr. Desmond?”

“I come here occasionally but I mostly keep it upstairs.” He yawned a bit and squatted down to her level. “Alright, so why don’t you show me what you can do kiddo.”

“Okay, Mr. Desmond. Um…” Brigid looked around at the nearly empty room. “What… should I do to show you?”

He rubbed his chin and reached into his pocket, pulling out a small wrench. “Can you move this?” He said, putting it down on the floor.

Brigid nodded, concentrating on the tool. It raised from the ground, and quickly moved up to eye level, at least Brigid’s eye level. “It isn’t too hard. It doesn’t feel, um… heavy, I guess, though not like ‘heavy’ heavy. But sometimes I have problems controlling how fast I move it. If I don’t try hard, it moves too fast. I… I broke a brush because I picked it up too hard and it hit the ceiling.”

Desmond couldn’t help but chuckle briefly. “Well that could just be because you are slightly new at it. I made mistakes my first times as well. You just need to learn a bit of control and to take it slowly.”

“I can pick up heavier things too, though.” Brigid swirled her finger, and the wrench spun in the air. “But not too big. I don’t understand it, really. I’m not touching it, so it shouldn’t be heavy, but it still feels heavy. Heavy in my head. And if I try to big up things that are too big, I get a headache.”

“I know what you mean Brig. You may not be using your actual muscles but you are using your...’brain muscles’ so to speak. Just like real muscles, you just need to keep working yourself so you build up tolerance. So no picking up any boulders yet.” He teased.

Brigid tilted her head a bit. “Can you pick up boulders, Mr. Desmond?”

“Me?” Desmond smiled and shook his head. “No, I can’t pick up boulders but smaller things are alright. I even trained myself to do a couple of small objects at once but nothing like that.”

“Can you show me?” Brigid asked, smiling. “Mommy says sometimes, the best way to learn something is by seeing someone else do it, and then do what they do.”

“Sure...let me just make something with the holograms and I will try my best.” He went to the command terminal and input some commands, around four or five golf ball sized objects came into being. “There, now that we have that…” He reached out his hand and his metal arm began to glow slightly it’s usual red color and three of the objects lifted into the air with ease. He brought them to him in a speedy manner, even spinning them around his hand. “See, easy stuff like this you should be able to handle. Though it takes a bit of work to do multiple ones at once, it is like trying to pick something up with two hands and a foot.”

“Can I try?” Brigid held her hands forward, the two remaining balls lifting up. One shot up faster than the other, but Brigid stopped it before it shot too high. She swirled her finger around again, and the balls spun around each other. One moved slightly faster than the other, and Brigid appeared to strain for a while before they reach the same speed. “You’re right, Mr. Desmond. It is hard to do more than one at a time. But I think I can do it with practice. I just never tried it before.”

“Just keep trying, it pays off.” He sighed and sat down on the ground, looking at Brigid practice. “You are getting better and better, you know that?”

“I keep trying, and that is how you get better, right?” Brigid frowned. “But… sometimes it doesn’t matter how much I practice.”

“What do you mean? Are you having trouble with something?”

Brigid nodded. “Sometimes, my powers just… start working. Like when I cough or sneeze. I… I accidentally threw a plate of food at Eve’s face earlier today.”

Desmond covered his mouth. “You...you did?”

Brigid nodded, lowering her hand to try and control the small orbs with just her eyes. It was a bit harder, but she got the hang of it before too long. “She wasn’t mad, but I’m sure she felt silly. She just said I need more practice.”

“Well, I can’t speak much for Atka and Aya about how they dealt with at an early age, and technically I cheated coming out late. Could just be because you are younger, it is just something you will need to learn to keep under control on your own. Though if you were really desperate maybe you could have one of those psionic dampers that they made for Death, at least until you learn to have a better handle on your powers.”

“Maybe,” Brigid muttered, her attention waning, the movement of the orbs becoming somewhat erratic. “If it stops me… from doing something bad again, like I… almost did…”

“What are you talking about? If you mean when you lost control, no one blames you for that. We are able to keep you under control, we won’t let anything like that happen again, I won’t let it. You have my promise on that.”

Brigid nodded, smiling at her companion. “Thank you, Mr. Desmond. If you think it will help.” Her smile dipped a bit. “Do I… have to wear one that shocks me?”

“No, I don’t think that will be apart of it, I think that was just for our alien friend.” He smiled warmly at her.

“Okay. Thanks Mr. Des…” Brigid’s eyes dipped for a moment, and she wobbled a bit. The balls floating in front of her suddenly shot out in all directions at incredible speed, one barely missing Desmond’s head.

“Woah!” He quickly got up and went to her side. “You okay Brig?

“Hmm?” Brigid shook her head, and rubbed her eyes. “Oh… yeah, I just… got tired all of a sudden. I’m okay now…”

He nodded. “Probably blew a fuse.” Helping her sit down, he handed her an unused water bottle and undid the top for her. “Just take a drink and relax a bit.”

Brigid greedily drank the water, coughing a little bit as she did. “Th-thanks, Mr. Desmond. I… I didn’t think I was using so much energy.”

“Yeah, seems to be a running theme for us psions as of late.” Desmond took a seat next to her on the floor, smiling a bit. “Let’s hope you never get into sports, ‘cause you have one huge throwing arm there.”

Brigid smiled, her energy seemingly back as though it was never gone. “I like watching sports, but I don’t like playing them. I like painting. Mommy and Eve said I can be an artist if I keep practicing.”

“A friend of mine is an artist, though he cheats because he is modded but he still does some pretty amazing things. Just promise me you won’t be stalking around the labs now that I planted that idea in your head.”

“I promise,” Brigid responded, holding up her hand. “You should let Eve see his pictures, though. She said she loves art.”

“I will be sure to let her know the next time we meet.” Breathing in deeply, he looked at the palm of his hand and a small, marble sized core appeared. “Ever since I went into the psi pod, my control over this power is crazy.”

Brigid watched it with fascination. “What can you do with it? Is it a weapon?”

“Yeah, it works along those lines. When I first developed it, it had a lot of destructive capabilities but I could only use it so much. Now I can control the size, rotation speed, even the nature of it, whether it acts as an oversized drill or mini bomb in the palm of my hands. I even was able to use two at the same time though they were small and not really that destructive, a drawback of having to expend more energy.”

Brigid’s smile widened. “Are you going to use this to beat all of the evil aliens? And help save the world?”

“I couldn’t possibly beat all of them on my own, that would be crazy. But there are people here who I can rely on to help me and we will break this invasion in time, you can count on that one.”

“Good. Then we can all have a big party to celebrate.” Brigid stood up, waving her hands to encompass the room. We can have it here. There is so much room, I’m sure we could fit everybody.”

“We did before, we could probably do so again for more happier reasons.” He couldn’t help but grin at her enthusiasm. “Gives us something to look forward to.”

Brigid nodded. She yawned again, wiping her eyes. “I just hope… I can stay awake for it…”

“You sure are a star Brigid. You burn bright, with a whole lot of energy but when you blow out, you blow out hard. I can take you back to the office if you want to sleep.”

Brigid nodded drowsily. “I’m sorry, Mr. Desmond. I’m just… so sleepy…”

He sighed and got to her side, holding out his arms. “Come on kiddo, let’s go.”

Brigid quickly stepped forward, jumping into his arms. She smiled as she placed her head against his shoulder, and was out like a light within a few seconds.