#secondinterlude

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Discovering Something Big

"-will be expecting clear skies and cool weather for the rest of the week. There’s a giant storm slowly building up, however we predict that it will eventually reach the shores of Progria in about a few weeks due to the slow speed it’s moving. As for-”

[DISCONNECTED FROM FORECAST CHANNEL: Progia Weather]

[CONNECTING TO NEW CHANNEL: Just in!]

“-everal break-ins have been recorded in multiple storage warehouses ran by MasSec. Various valuables have been found missing, however MasSec currently refuses to comment on what was missing. Until-”

[DISCONNECTED FROM NEWS CHANNEL: Just In!]

//Nothing interesting, apparently...//

//After pulling out so much stuff from the HWDP, nothing from these channels hold anything of worth.//

//It’s just a waste of my time now...//

//...//

//Well, if all else fails. Browse the internet.//

//And by internet, I mean the deep web.//

//Now...let’s see if anything popped up on the forums...//

[CONNECTING TO WEBSITE: Web After Dark]

//Hmm...//

//Nope... Hmm could this be- huh, guess not. How about this one- nope.//

//Looks like there’s nothing else- Oh, heh. Silly me, I’m browsing the newly created sub-forums, perhaps some of the current ‘trending’ forums would-//

//...//

//What’s this?//

[ACCESSING SUB-FORUM, TITLED: LOOK WHAT WAS CAUGHT ON CAMERA AT THE MASEC WAREHOUSES]

‘Yo guys! You know how there was a break-in at the MasSec Storage? Someone actually caught this on camera over there! So far this hasn’t been spreading at all for some reason in the public, so I think the government is trying to suppress this. Check it out!’ [Link]

Edit: Guys look at the top of the fucking building, are you blind?!

Comment Section

Anonymous#1328: Honestly I’m not sure on what I’m looking at. If anything I’m more pissed that the person is recording this shit vertically, does ANYONE know how to hold the phone on its side???

Quer: I dont see anyhing either like wat is this suposed to be

Anonymous#8323: Clickbait

Ratman123: @Anonymous#6432 Shut The Fuck Up Bitch, Do You Even Speak English?

Anonymous#6432: @Ratman123 And yet you speak only in capitols, bitch.

Ratman123: @Anonymous#6432 Its Spelled Capitals, Shithead.

????: This comment was deleted by moderator.

ZeroToat: It’s difficult to see at first, but I’m definitely seeing something there. It’s a figure standing there. It’s hard to make out, but I don’t think it’s a Human. Pokemon maybe?

Anonymous#2130: @ZeroToat Pokemon? In Progria? Unlikely.

SwillMiffed: This is obviously photoshopped.

IAmGeorge: @SwillMiffed How the fuck can you photoshop a video??? Like????????

//Okay, I am gonna stop reading these comments before I somehow get a tumor.//

//Now what the hell is this video they’re talking about, it better not be some sort of clickbait like the last few...//

[SCANNING ATTACHED VIDEO]

[SCAN COMPLETE! NO VIRUSES DETECTED]

[ACCESSING VIDEO]

//...//

//Okay, nothing seems out of the ordinary... As expected, this is nothing but a waste of my time agai-//

//...//

//Wait...//

//...//

//No...way...//

//Holy shit, this is big. This is very, very, VERY big.//

//The Lady needs to be informed about this.//

[USER: Trojan IS OFFLINE!]

Date: 9/18/2018

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - The Reason

[PoV: Bladesong]

Upon entering the room the first thing I notice is that it’s rather large, however despite its size the only things that really occupies its space is a long, short-standing, rectangular table in the middle. Lining one side of the table as well as both ends are numerous chairs and seats. These chairs come in all sorts of sizes and designs, ranging from a chair you’d see a human sit in to gigantic bean bags to plush cushions. Sitting at this table is a female Garchomp, a male Aggron, and a female Luxray/Arcanine hybrid.

They must be Kaiser, Colossus, and Penumbra that Chimera told me about.

“Ahh, we were wondering when you’d arrive!” Colossus laughs, beckoning us towards the table. As I get close he focuses on me, his smile becoming mischievous. “And hello Bladdersong, it's a pleasure to see you again.”

I find myself pause, my brows furrowing as the strong feeling of being unimpressed overtakes me.

Bladdersong? Really? Now he’s just...trying way too hard.

“Save your antics for another time, Colossus.” Penumbra says sternly, her red eyes looking at him with irritation.

“Heh, very well.” He sighs before gesturing to a sturdy-looking metal chair. “Seat yourselves, then we’ll get started on explaining the exact reasons of the mission as well as the details.”

After shaking my head I eventually take the gestured seat, in which the metal bends slightly due to my weight. Beside me Chimera also sits down in a similar chair, although being made of wood instead.

Once we’re all settled, Kaiser nods her head to Jarvis. “Prepare the screen, please.”

The Porygon-Z hybrid levitates a little higher into the air, his metallic body shining softly from the light. He approaches what looks like a sort of console, and upon extending one of his floating ‘fingers’ a small spike slowly slides out from the tip, and after it reaches its full length he sticks it into one of the sockets before twisting.

Before my eyes I watch as a giant screen slowly slides down one of the walls, its black surface immediately lighting up. The screen is located on the side of the room where there’s no chairs on the table, which means that everyone can look at it without craning their neck or bodies around.

That...is definitely quite nice. Glad to see they plan things accordingly.

Once the screen is fully down, Kaiser looks at us. “As you both know, you will be heading to Progria. However it wasn’t explained as to where you will be heading in Progria, nor why.” With a fin she gestures to the screen, which an image quickly takes its place.

I feel my breath catch as I look at what seems to be a giant city, however...it looks like nothing I’ve ever seen. The city is filled with lights of all sorts of colors that almost seem to illuminate the night sky. Giant buildings tower over others, their surface of glass and metal.

The only two modern cities in Evolutia have nothing to compare to this...

“This is New Falkhom City, the capitol of Progria.” Kaiser continues. “This is where you will be going.”

Through the corners of my eyes I notice Chimera tense. “New Falkhom City?” Chimera repeats. “If I may ask, why...there of all places?”

The Garchomp doesn’t respond, instead she turns to Jarvis and nods her head.

Seeing this, he nods his head as well. “It’s because of something I’ve found there.” He says, and the image changes to another. This one is lower quality, probably taken from a sort of handheld device. It shows to be a sidewalk next to a tall concrete wall, but just over said wall I can see the tops of numerous buildings.

“This was a video taken near the MasSec Storage Warehouses, specifically the night where several things were stolen from them.” Jarvis continues. “What was stolen currently doesn’t matter, it’s what I found in the video found. It was only for a brief moment, so I saved the frame and uploaded it as an image for you all to see.”

I look at the image, finding it difficult to see anything out of the ordinary. However the more I look the more I feel my enhanced eyes start examining the details - or at least whatever details I can make out from the lower resolution image. It wasn’t until I started looking at the roofs of the warehouses that I saw something.

“Wait...” I start. “Is that a figure standing there?”

Jarvis nods his head. “Indeed, I’m not surprised to see that you found it so fast seeing your enhancements.” Immediately he zooms in on one of the warehouse roofs, and upon zooming in enough everyone else can see the figure as well.

The image is dark, so Jarvis brightens it...

...and both me and Chimera freeze.

“Hold on...” Chimera starts. “Is...that what I think it is?”

The figure...I can quite clearly make out their (or more specifically his) form. The body is not Human, in fact...it resembles more of a Gallade due to the stumpy legs. But that’s not the main part, I can barely make out the blue and black color scheme of his body...as well as the barest bit of light reflecting off its surface.

That...is not a body of flesh.

That is...metal.

Jarvis and I speak up in unison.

“A cyborg.��

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Summoned

[PoV: Chimera]

There were several reactions I was expecting from Delilah when I told her that I not only knew of her visits, but also that she won’t get in trouble. However... I was definitely not expecting her to be on her knees talking about how she’s going to die. I don’t believe that she’s serious, but it’s still...very unexpected.

I share an awkward yet concerned glance with Bladesong, who also has the same feeling from the look of her face.

Well...

Huh.

People often forget that I’m part Human and not some alien creature with a solution for every scenario, because that’s far from the truth. Sure...I’ve been getting good with things and can handle some intense situations, but there’s still plenty of times where I’m simply winging it and pretending to know what I’m doing.

And in this case, even I’m not sure if I can do that. In the end I’m a scientist with superpowers, situations like this has never been my forte.

“Uh...Delilah?” I hear Bladesong start talking. “What’s wrong? You’re not in trouble, why are you-”

“Ahh, I see the fight is finished.” A voice suddenly speaks up, cutting Bladesong off.

We turn our gazes in unison to the source, and from the dispersing crowd we see no other than Jarvis. The Porygon-Z/Rotom hybrid hovers towards, his mechanical body glistening due to the lights on the ceiling.

“Jarvis? I’m surprised to see you here.” I say, although keeping note of Bladesong’s irritated expression for being rudely interrupted. “I assume you got bored of the internet?”

Jarvis lets out a sharp laugh. “Bored? Please. Seeing how disturbingly interesting the internet is, I believe it’s impossible to be bored of it.” He shakes his floating head before crossing his arms. “However that’s not the reason I’m here. Since your test battle is complete, you both are being called to meet with the Branch leaders.”

This makes me blink. “So soon? Hm, I assume this involves the details of the mission?”

He nods his head. “Yeah, and we’ll need to hurry. They’re expecting you two.”

I look at Bladesong, who lets out a small sigh and nods her head. Turning to Delilah she smiles reassuringly. “Hey, after this is we’ll talk, alright? Because I want to know what’s wrong, and I won’t take no for an answer.”

The Salazzle nods solemnly, but doesn’t say a word.

The cyborg gives her a reassuring pat on the back before turning to me, nodding her head. “Well... I’m ready.”

And so I nodded as well before looking at Jarvis. “And you will be accompanying us?” I ask him.

He chuckles. “Of course, in fact I will be the one supplying the information.” He turns around and beckons us to follow with a floating arm. “Let’s go, time’s  wasting after all.”

I follow after him, leaving the Sparring Hall with Bladesong in tow. Before I left I could see Richard grumbling over the severally damaged floor from where Bladesong and I fought, and I couldn’t help but feel somewhat bad since it’ll take a while to repair it.

Heh, guess that’s what happens when an alien virus hybrid and a cyborg fight one another. Regardless, I’ll find a way to make it up to them.

Probably.

Once we’re well on our way, I speak up again. “Who will we be expecting?” I ask.

Still floating down the direction his head swivels completely around to face me. “Only the three leaders of the main GoT branches. Colossus, Kaiser, and Penumbra.”

I blink. “Kaiser? She got better?”

He nods, his head turning back to face the front of him. “Yeah, a few days ago actually. Once her injury fully healed, Jezebel was let off from her duty as acting Night Hunter branch leader.”

I couldn’t help but smirk. “I can only assume that Jezebel was more than thrilled?”

“She’s heading out into the city actually, straight to a bar.” Jarvis laughs. “Not that I blame her, she certainly deserves it since this was all suddenly sprung upon her.”

“I never thought of her to be the drinking type.” I muse.

“She isn’t!” Jarvis continues to laugh.

“Uh...” I hear Bladesong say. “If I may ask, how did Kaiser get hurt?”

“She drank too much alcohol at a bar and thought it was a good idea to charge head on into a wall.” Jarvis immediately answers her in a matter-of-fact tone. “A brick wall if I might add.”

She pauses for a moment, her expression becoming even more confused. “I...what...?”

“You heard me.” Jarvis says, his digital eyes looking at her with an amused expression. “Although Dragon-types are very durable, taking a ton of bricks to the head can hurt pretty much everyone. At least she learned her lesson, since she’s cutting back on her drinking habits now.”

“Good for her.” I nod with approval. “It was getting out of control, so I’m glad to hear that she’s taking the initiative.”

“What the hell did I get myself into?” I hear Bladesong mutter to herself.

Trust me Bladesong, you don’t even know half of it.

“Aaaand here we go!” Jarvis exclaims, drawing both of our attention. Standing before us are a pair of doors, leading to one of the numerous briefing chambers. “Well? No time to stand around, let’s head inside.”

With a floating hand he grasps the door handle and pulls it open, then heading straight inside.

I look at Bladesong before stepping aside, gesturing to the open door with a hand. “Lady’s first.”

She looks at me oddly before shrugging her shoulders, following after Jarvis.

Looking into the room I feel myself growing somewhat nervous in the spot where my stomach would normally be, an uneasiness I often get before an intense mission - like a raid on an HWDP facility.

But right now? That feeling...is definitely a lot more intense.

Hoo boy, something big is gonna be happening...

Steeling myself, I step inside and close the door behind me.

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - SEARCH

R-SNITCH-A103: SCANNING PERIMETERS - NEW FALKHOM CITY; MASSEC STORAGE WAREHOUSE; UNITS A1, A2, A3, A4, A5

R-SNITCH-A104: SCANNING PERIMETERS - NEW FALKHOM CITY; MASSEC STORAGE WAREHOUSE; UNITS B1, B2, B3, B4, B5

R-SNITCH-A105: SCANNING PERIMETERS - NEW FALKHOM CITY; WALTER ST, BIRCH ST, COLVER ST

R-SNITCH-A106: SCANNING PERIMETERS - NEW FALKHOM CITY; COLVER ST, MAIN ST, HARVEN ST

R-SNITCH-A107: SCANNING PERIMETERS - NEW FALKHOME CITY; MAIN ST, HARVEN ST, ROWAN ST

R-SNITCH-A109: AI DISABLED, MANUAL CONTROL ACTIVE

...

...

...

PATROL COMPLETE, DATA REPORT: NO FACIAL/BODY MATCH FOUND.

“Fucking hell. Give them new search perimeters, I want that fucking thing found!”

“But ma’am, if that picture is true then I seriously doubt we’ll find them here. They stand out way too muc-”

“Did I fucking stutter? New perimeters. NOW.”

“Y-Yes ma’am.”

...

“Fucking hell... I thought that thing was destroyed when the facility blew up. Why the hell did it suddenly show up now?”

...

“Regardless, we’re turning this entire city upside down. Send every single Snitch drone if we have too, if those things are running around then we need to find them IMMEDIATELY.”

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - The Truth is ‘Out’

[PoV: Delilah]

When Maria brings down the surrounding barrier, I still couldn’t help but stay rooted in place. I mean, can you even blame me? I just watched a fight that I never expected to be so...intense?

No, that’s not the word.

Powerful.

And from what I can see, everyone else is feeling the same way. However unlike everyone else, I’m the one that ends up speaking first.

“Holy shit.” I state more than say.

This suddenly gets people talking, loud cheers and surprised shouts fill the air as everyone fully grasps the situation. Near me I hear Samantha start arguing with a smug Gustav. But I don’t really care about the surrounding people as of right now, what I DO care about...is Bladesong.

I start pushing people aside, quickly making my way through the crowd before finally breaking the ‘ring’ around the cyborg and Deoxys.

“That...was amazing!” I exclaim loudly, a smile finally working its way onto my face. “I never realized you could do all that, Bladesong!”

Said cyborg looks at me, her expression becoming surprisingly sheepish. “Well...” She says uncertainly, caught off-guard from the compliment. “I...never quite realized it myself, to be honest.”

“There’s a particular saying that is sometimes quoted where I’m from, and that is ‘knowledge is power’.” Chimera comments, making me flinch upon being reminded that he’s here. “However for this situation? The knowledge of power is the truest form of power.”

I knew what I was getting into when I walked up to Bladesong when Chimera is right next to her, but...I’m still on edge.

...

No, I...can’t live like this. My ties with the GoT are already done for, I...might as well as tell Chimera in-person. It’s...the right thing to do.

I clench my hands together and turn to the Deoxys, my jaw setting. He’s looking straight at me coolly, his eyes narrowed slightly.

“I know you have something to say to me, Delilah.” He says, making my breath catch in my throat.

Bladesong looks at me, and then at Chimera. She crosses her arms and furrows her brows, an unimpressed look forming on her face. “Chimera, enough of this.” She says with annoyance. “If you’re not going to tell her, I will.”

...Huh?

The Deoxys shrugs his shoulders. “Fine fine, I’ll tell her.” He turns away and walks over to his robes, which is laying on one of the few untouched spots on the ground. Upon picking it up he proceeds to put it on. “I am well aware that you’ve been visiting Bladesong, Delilah.” He tells me.

I feel my body lock into place, my blood freezing to a halt. “W-What?” I manage to say through stuttering lips.

With his robes on properly he pulls up his hood. “I don’t think there’s a need for me to repeat myself.” He look at me, his eyes showing no source of anger.  “And isn’t a need to tip-toe around me either.”

I...still can’t fully wrap my head around this, he knew??

“H-How?” I manage to ask.

At this point he’s smirking, I fully bet he’s smirking with the way his eyes narrow. “I’ve been given an anonymous tip.”

Bladesong rolls her eyes at this, but says nothing.

At this point I should be shaking in my boots, and in a way...I kinda am. But one thing is still making me very confused, and it’s the fact that he doesn’t seem angry...at all...

“Am...I in trouble?” I finally ask the dreaded question, my body visibly shrinking away because in all honesty... I’m not sure if I even want to know the answer.

Chimera crosses his arms and...shakes his head. “No, you’re not.”

My legs feel very weak all of a sudden, so weak to the point where I’m forced to sit down on the ground. I feel faint, faint with...relief.

“Even though you did go behind my back, overall your visits have been very good for Bladesong.” He continues, in which said cyborg nods her head with a smile. “In fact, because of you she chose to join the Guardians of Twilight. So with all of that, I actually have you to thank.”

Is...this really happening?

I’m not gonna get kicked out of the GoT?

I’m not gonna lose my job, I’m still gonna have a source of income as well as a place to stay??

I feel something wet on my cheeks, and upon touching them I realize that I’m crying again.

“Did...I say something wrong?” Chimera asks Bladesong, looking at me with concern.

The Gothitelle shakes her head. “No, you said the right thing.” She kneels down next to me and wraps an arm around my shoulder reassuringly. “Hey, you’re gonna be okay.”

You know what? I don’t care that I’m crying. I don’t care that I’m doing this in front of so many people.

I’m not in trouble, I’m not gonna lose anything. I’m still gonna be a member of the GoT.

I’m happy as-

...

My eyes widen as I suddenly realize something, and all of my happiness left me in an instead.

I told Euterpe that Ren’Gul had a thing for her...right in front of Ren’Gul.

“Oh my Arceus...” I whisper. “I really am gonna die.”

At this point, Bladesong and Chimera share a look of confusion.

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - The ‘Fight’ is About to Begin

[PoV: Chimera]

Well...this is rather unexpected.

Within a span of ten minutes the Sparring Hall is already filling up with tons of Pokemon, all eager to witness the ‘fight’ between me and Bladesong.

Apparently I’ve seriously underestimated Maria’s capabilities on spreading the word.

Turning my gaze to Bladesong, I notice that she’s grinning at me. “What’s the matter? Didn’t expect the crowd?” She asks playfully.

I shrug my shoulders, laughing quietly. “Honestly? Yeah. In fact I’m rather impressed with how quickly they gathered.”

She glances to the side, eyeing the growing number of gathered Pokemon. “I’m kinda surprised too. Do the people in this guild really like watching others fight?”

“From what I’ve both heard and seen? To be short, yes.” I say with a nod. “Even though the Sparring Hall is primarily used for training, there’s the occasional match where arguments and bets are settled. Many of the members of the Guardians of Twilight really enjoy watching these matches unfold, since in a way it’s like watching a boxing match.” I shake my head slightly. “However there’s also the rare fight where one or two noteworthy individuals are against each other, which also draws their attention. This fight is one of those, specifically the latter.”

Bladesong nods her head in understanding, but doesn’t say anything else. With that matter settled I turn my gaze outwards, looking at the vast number of Pokemon around us.

As I look at the crowd I recognize several Pokemon, the most prominent being Samantha and the two hulking Pokemon from the team Twin Scorpius. Standing beside the three is the Salazzle Scrafty hybrid, Delilah.

Heh, the main reason why I even remember her name is because of her ‘secret’ visits with Bladesong.

Two Pokemon make their way out of the crowd, specifically the two Mr. Mimes in charge of this hall. Maria has an incredibly giddy expression on her face while Richard looks like he wants to strangle her.

Not that I blame him.

“Alright...” Richard growls before straightening himself, looking at me with as reserved of an expression he can make. “What are the rules for this match? Fists only? Weapons only?”

I turn my gaze to Bladesong, who’s approaching us with a curious expression. She doesn’t say anything though, since she’s waiting for my response.

I look back at Richard, my eyes containing a hardened look. “The only rule is to fight until the other taps out” I state. “There are no restrictions. Both of us will be fighting at our fullest potential.”

This makes the two take a step back in surprise. “N-No restrictions?” Richard stutters. “A-Are you sure? There’s a great chance that someone could get hurt!”

“There’s no need to worry.” I assure him, briefly looking at his sister. “Maria can create the protective dome around us in order to contain any possible damage, that way it’ll prevent any of the onlookers from getting hurt.”

Said Mime grins widely. “Oooooooh, it’s been so LONG since I’ve had to do this!” She says giddily, practically dancing on her feet.

I look at Bladesong, whose expression is one of uncertainty. “Will that be alright with you, Bladesong?” I ask her.

Immediately my words snap her out of whatever thoughts she’s having and she gives me a determined grin. “Hell yeah.” She responds, clenching one of her fists. “I’m fine if you’re fine.”

I turn back to Richard. “Then it’s settled.”

The Mr. Mime nods his head numbly. “Well...okay...” Richard says slowly before shaking his head. Taking on a harsher expression he turns and faces the crowd. “Hey, back up everyone!” He barks out. “We need space! Move it!”

Using his hands he guides the crowd back a great distance away with Maria right behind him, the Pokemon moving enough to grant a great amount of space for us. Once the Pokemon are far enough back, Maria claps her hands together. “Alright...here we go!” She cheers before extending her palms out, channeling her power. A giant circular dome of pink energy forms around us, essentially creating a contained arena - or ‘battle dome’ as a more appropriate term. The overall size is more than large enough for us to easily maneuver, the peak of the dome reaching more than three stories tall.

To say the least, Maria never fails to impress me on multiple aspects.

“Alrighty then! It’s all ready!” She shouts, her voice slightly muffled.

I turn to Bladesong, who’s already in a ready stance. Her fists are up and her blade-like tendrils are poised to strike, her determined grin never once left her face. “Are you ready~?” She asks me, looking ready to pounce at a moment’s notice.

Heh, gotta admire her willingness to jump right in.

I didn’t respond to her though, not at first. The reason why is that a thought just occurred to me.

If this fight becomes intense, my cloak will most likely be damaged. Even though I do have multiple spares, I'd rather avoid causing any sort of damage since it’s often a hassle for the guild’s seamstresses...

However...that would also mean that I’d have to take it off...

...right in front of the crowd of onlooking eyes...

...

Hmm, apparently I didn’t really think things through when I gave Maria permission to spread the word on our fight.

...

...

You know what?

Fuck it.

In response to Bladesong’s question, I reach my hands into my robe and undo the clasps. Once that’s done I shed the clothing, letting it fall to my feet and exposing my form.

The crowd lets out a mixture of surprised gasps and excited cheers upon seeing me remove my cloak.

My form isn’t really a secret in the GoT, but it’s not known for me to not go around large crowds without my robe. So seeing me reveal my form to all of them is quite a treat - or at least from what I assume.

And seeing Bladesong’s raised eyebrows, she’s just as surprised.

“Damn, guess that answers my question.” She laughs.

Kicking my robe back to one of the sides of the dome (or at least what you can call a ‘side’ since it’s circular in shape), I cross my arms. “Maria, our fight will begin when you give the go ahead!” I shout to the Mime, not looking at her direction. I said this since I know she’s a big fan on ‘shoutcasting’ these sort of fights, so I know this will make her even happier.

“Yeah!” I hear her cheer louder. “Alright everyone! I welcome you to the next big battle, this time focusing on some of our greatest and interesting members of the Guardians of Twilight!” I hear the crowd let out a roar in response.

Through the corners of my eyes I see Maria gesture to me. “First we have Chimera, the leader of the GoT’s elite Strike Team!” Of all the cheering, I can certainly pick out Samantha’s being the loudest. It’s quite impossible to miss her her dinosaur-like roar.

After everyone settled somewhat, she then gestures to the cyborg. “Next we have Bladesong, our newest member to the guild and our first cyborg!” The cheers grow even louder, and within the crowd I see Delilah excitedly pumping her fists into the air.

“This is a fight with no restrictions! Both fighters will be going all-out, no punches pulled!” At this point the crowd is almost deafening, each Pokemon cheering and shouting to the point where their voices are growing raw. Throughout this entire ordeal Bladesong couldn’t help but start laughing, it’s clearly obvious that she’s having fun from watching this. She says something to me after that, but her voice is drowned out from the sounds created by the crowd.

Just barely I can hear Maria’s voice now. “Fighters, are you ready?!”

Both me and Bladesong nod our heads.

“Alrighty!” The Mime exclaims. “When I say ‘go’, the fight will begin! So let’s begin!”

“Three!”

Bladesong and I lock gazes, her synthetic eyes narrow as a smirk forms on her lips.

“Two!”

I begin drawing power from my core, causing the crystal in my chest to glow.

“One!”

I uncross my arms, my eyes narrowing.

Bladesong, this may be your first fight...but I have no intention on giving you slack.

“GO!”

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Playful Banter

[PoV: Gustav]

“You can say that all you want, Gustav. But Chimera is going to win, there’s no other way for it to end~” Samantha singsongs.

I roll my eyes, but my tone still contained the same playfulness as before. “Very well, Samantha. You can assume whatever it is you wish to assume.” My mandibles click together mischievously as an idea of an excellent comeback pops into my mind. However ultimately I decide against saying it, since it’ll only prolong the banter and irritate Cheyenne further.

Throughout the entire trek towards the Sparring Hall Samantha and I have been messing around, specifically ‘arguing’ in a playful manner on how the match between Chimera and the cyborg would end. Obviously she’s steadfast on Chimera since she’s both on the same team as him as well as hold him in high regard, I on the other claw believe that it can go either direction.

My (metaphorical) brother Cheyenne has kept his distance from us, his irritation towards our ‘arguing’ having pushed him to the point where he’s trying to ignore the two of us - and failing. However for Hale and Sinfonia, they seem to be keeping to themselves, talking among each other through that mental link of theirs to pass the time.

Heh, to each their own.

I let my gaze wander, observing the familiar surroundings in a relaxed manner. It’s been a long time since I’ve grown used to this massive size, since it’s almost a constant necessity at this point that I have to look down at those I’m speaking to.

I couldn’t help but smirk when I thought back to the time I first met Asmund, I’d say it was probably one of the first times the Golurk was actually surprised, since I stand just as tall as him...if not greater. Sadly however his attitude was just as sour.

I shake my head slightly, more in disappointment than anything. I do wish the Golurk to gain a better outlook in life, but his prejudices aren’t something that can be easily shed. Not that I can blame him.

Ahead of me I notice that Cheyenne stopped, his frame obstructing my view. I walk around him, my gaze look at him curiously. “Something the matter?” I ask him, my tone playful. “I do hope that Samantha and I’s bickering haven’t-”

He gestures ahead of him with one of his giant metal pincers, in which I fall silent.

His lack of uttering a word intrigues me, so I follow my gaze to where he’s pointing at. My eyes fall upon a certain individual leaning against a wall, and it took me only a moment to recognize her.

Delilah, and...she doesn’t seem to be looking good. Her body is shaking as she hugs her knees, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Hm, oh dear...

I take the initiative, walking past my ‘brother’ and making a beeline to her.

“Hello there Delilah.” I say softly, trying my best not to startle her. Sadly this happens anyways, since her body moves with a sudden jolt as her head snaps up to look at me.

“G-Gustav!” She exclaims, her voice incredibly shaky. Immediately she starts wiping her eyes in an attempt to save face. “D-Do you need something?”

My mandibles click together a few times as I contemplate the right choice of words to say. All of the choices seem rather intrusive, so I’ll go with something else. “I’d ask if you’re alright, but it’s quite apparent that things aren’t.” I say before chuckling. “So why don’t you join us? There’s going to be a fight between Chimera and the new cyborg - Bladesong if I remember her name correctly - and it’s going to quite the show from what I’ve been told.”

The Salazzle’s eyes widen, her sorrow momentarily forgotten. “Bladesong is going to fight Chimera?!”

“It...is just a spar.” Cheyenne growls behind me, obviously I ignore him.

“Indeed!” I grin, or at least try to due to the limits of my maw. “So why don’t you come with us? It’ll be a sight to see!”

She looks hesitant at the offer, but slowly nods. “Well...sure...” She sighs, getting up. Her legs are somewhat shaky due to reasons unknown to me, but she seems to be standing firm. Her next words she says are under her breath, just barely audible for me. “I’m already fucked, might as well as be there when Chimera is told...”

I briefly look at her with concern, but don’t comment. “Excellent!” I exclaim happily. “Let’s go! We don’t want to be late after all!”

“Late for Chimera to kick that robot’s ass~” Samantha hums behind me.

“She’s a cyborg, not a robot.” Delilah says tersely. “There’s a difference.”

I notice Hale and Sinfonia share a glance, while Cheyenne lets out a snort of amusement - the first time he hasn’t been irritable throughout this trek.

The dinosaur-like Salazzle hybrid frowns at Delilah, a puff of freezing mist escaping from the corners of her mouth. “Hmph, fine. Cyborg.” Samantha huffs, looking at Delilah coolly. “Regardless, my point still stands.”

At this, Delilah slowly smirks. “Honestly? My money is on Bladesong, that girl is far stronger than she looks.”

Cheyenne lets out a growl and walks past us, knowing fully well on where this is going.

Me though? I couldn’t help but enjoy the quickly forming banter between the two Salazzle hybrids, especially since Delilah’s mellow mood is vanishing.

Yes, I’ve made the right choice~

“Come along! We don’t have much time till it starts!” I laugh, continuing down the path where Cheyenne stormed off.

Heh, that bug needs to let loose sometimes.

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - The ‘Fight’, Pt. 2

[PoV: Bladesong]

I slam my foot into the ground, effortlessly cracking the concrete. With a powerful shove I start rushing towards the direction where Chimera is flying above.

To my unsurprise he unleashes another beam of psychic energy, however I don’t adjust my direction this time. Raising one of my tendrils I move the blade into its path, flat-sided first instead of its edge. Upon contact the laser is immediately deflected into the dome, causing the shield to ripple from the surge of energy.

Okay, so not only can I cut lasers. But the metal can also deflect them.

I can see Chimera’s eyes narrow slightly with irritation, in which I could only grin in response.

Yeah, that won’t work with me anymore.

Kicking off the ground I leap directly at him, and with a turn of my head I let my tendrils strike at him like a pair of serpents.

Immediately he flies to the side to avoid my attack, but I expected him to do this. Lashing out with a clawed hand I just barely manage to snag his wrist, my hold tightening like a vice.

“Gotcha.” I grin, feeling immensely satisfied at his incredibly surprised expression.

The expression didn’t last long, for his eyes narrow in an almost playful way. “Are you sure?” He asks me, his tone matching his expression.

I blink, but I didn’t get a chance to properly figure out what he meant until his crystal core flashed brightly.

His body vanishes, my hand now grasping open air. I see another flash of light behind my frame, but just when I begin to turn my body around to see what’s happening...

...I see an orange foot strike me dead in the face.

My body is once again sent flying, this time straight into the ground. I slam into the concrete hard, my heavy frame creating another miniature crater.

Of all the things hurting, my face is definitely stinging since it’s the least armored spot on my body. I immediately begin rubbing it, my teeth grinding together. I can hear the crowd roaring now, as well as a certain voice screaming ‘THAT’S RIGHT CHIMERA! KNOCK HER ON HER ASS!’

“Ignore Samantha.” I hear him chuckle, his frame still hovering in the air. His chuckles quickly stop, his expression shifting to one of disappointment.“Regardless, I know you’re more powerful than that, Bladesong.” He crosses his arms. “Fight like it.”

Letting out a growl I slam my free fist into the ground, adding another spider-web of cracks on the concrete. “You want me to fight harder?” I say lowly, already frustrated with how this fight is turning out. “I already am fighting hard!”

His eyes narrow. “No, you aren’t.” He says in a matter-of-fact tone. “Get back up, Bladesong. There’s more to yourself than you think. Show it.”

Without even waiting for me to do just that, he thrusts his palm outwards and throws out another laser.

My bladed tendril snakes in to block the attack, deflecting the laser harmlessly away. In response Chimera cups his hands together once again, collecting his energy into a sphere.

I quickly stand up, my hands clenched into fists.

Okay, so... If I get within range I seriously need to land my blades on him, since that’s the only thing I can hurt him with. Yet at the same time, every time I get close to him he ends up flying away or...teleporting. Hell, I’m sure it’s likely that I’m not gonna get another opportunity again like earlier.

Shit... So...what then? My body can’t do anything else, so what else can I do? I don’t have any special tricks like he does...

...

Or do I...?

As my thoughts wander, I feel myself drift inwardly. Feeling the hum of energy within the core that fuels my form, I soon realize something.

This energy, it flows throughout my form... It powers my form, such as giving my synthetic muscles the strength they need.

And...It’s not even operating at full potential.

...

I look up at Chimera, my eyes narrowing.

Drawing upon my core, I feel the energy flow suddenly at an increased rate. In the corner of my vision I see purple text pop up.

I know what to do. I don’t need fancy tricks like flying and shooting lasers.

[CORE ENERGY FLOW OPTIMIZED]

I need to be faster.

I need to be stronger.

[PC BLADES ACTIVATED]

The edges of my tendril’s blades start glowing, the metal radiating a bright magenta light. That combined with the humming sound they’re making, I know that their cutting potential has increased by more than tenfold.

Yeah alright Chimera, you want me to go all-out? I’ll give you all-out.

With Chimera’s attack fully-charged he immediately throws the sphere at me, its surface pulsing violently as it streaks towards my form.

I don’t even wait for it to get near me. In an instant I start sprinting, sending large chunks of concrete and earth flying into the air. Way behind me the Psycho Boost impacts, causing an explosion that misses me by a mile.

Well... Not a mile in a literal sense, but you get my point.

The second I reach the wall of the dome I leap up and twist my body around, landing on it with my feet-first. Quickly I kick off, propelling myself into the air at speeds far faster than earlier.

I fly towards Chimera like a cyborg missile, my blades hugging close to my form. My intention isn’t to attack him, not yet...

No, I want him to dodge.

And he does just that, his body immediately zooming away to avoid my form. He just barely avoids me, my form flying past where he once was.

Perfect...

Tracking his movements with my eyes I angle my body once again, slamming into the roof of the dome feet-first. The sheer force of the impact causes the shield to crack, but said damage immediately mends itself. Now knowing where Chimera is heading I kick off once again, this time my blades extending outwards.

Chimera turns around, only to see me heading right for him with no time for him to react.

I grin widely.

"Gotcha.” I say again.

I fly by him, but not before feeling my blade slicing into his body. My only intention is to do a shallow cut on his arm, mostly to prove that now I’m fighting all out. Once again turning my body around I slam into the ground feet-first, laughing to myself.

As I stand up, I begin to notice something.

The crowd...

They’re absolutely silent.

And...I’m getting the feeling it’s not the good kind of stunned silence.

Turning around, I notice something laying on the ground.

Chimera’s arm.

...

My eyes widen in horror.

Holy shit, I fucking cut off his arm!!

I fucking cut the thing clean off, the amputated end still sizzling from contact with my blade’s heated edge.

Shit.

Shit shit shit.

SHIT!

“Chimera, I’M SO SORRY!” Immediately shout, cupping my face in my hands. “I DIDN’T MEAN TO!”

My mind is a storm of frantic thoughts, all of them trying to figure out on what to do in this unexpected situation. But before any of them could fully manifest, a loud laugh cuts them off as well as making me fall silent.

The laugh...

...is coming from...Chimera?

I look up and to my immense confusion I see him laughing, his eyes fixated on the stump where his arm used to be.

I fucking swear... I’m so freaked out right now that I’d throw up if I could. I completely cut off his arm, and...he’s laughing?!

What the fuck?!

“You know? I think that’s enough.” He says, finally managing to gain control of his laughter. “Obviously you’ve proved yourself.” He lowers himself back to the ground, still chuckling.

At this point I’m just staring at him with wide eyes, unable to properly form any sort of words.

Like, what can I fucking say? I just cut off his arm, and he’s acting as if that sort of shit didn’t even happen.

Once his feet touches the ground he walks over to his severed arm and picks it up with the one he still has. Suddenly several tendrils sprout from the stump on his body as well as the end of the severed arm, and upon moving the severed arm to the stump the tendrils immediately grab each other. I watch before my eyes as the tendrils pull the arm back into its place and...

...the flesh connects the arm back to his body, acting as if it was never severed to begin with.

He swings his reattached arm a few times before nodding with satisfaction. “There we go, good as new.” He says with satisfaction before look at me, only to pause when he sees my completely shocked and dumbfounded expression. “What?”

“Wuh...” I dumbly say, unable to properly formulate any sort of words. Because...you know... I severed his arm off, only for him to reattach it before my very eyes like it's just a normal Friday.

“Ah, I guess I haven’t talked to you about that.” He chuckles.

Well gee, no fucking shit!

Since it’s quite clear that I’m in no state to talk right now, he instead turns to the crowd. “Alright! The battle is over!” He says loudly. “Maria, you can lower the shield!”

To say the least, it...took several moments before she did.

Not that I blamed her.

[thetakenpokemon]

They...were Taken...

Now you have seen them all, oh reader mine. You’ve seen the shaping words of the eight Taken, spoken unto them by Oryx.

Sectarion, Insurgent Mind.

Velvis, Claw of Oryx.

Teloc, Nail of Oryx.

Nalmra, Song of Oryx.

Neeksis, the Rampant.

Turrok, the Cleaver.

Sho’ourg, the Numbed.

Vectorios, Dissident Mind.

Each were Taken Zealots, Taken entities that once wielded great power over their lesser brethren. None could stand against their might.

None except for the wielders of the Light, the ones who slew them.

...

These entities stood out to Oryx, like an appealing ant out of thousands to a god. They held greater potential, greater purpose. Oryx Took them, utilized them more personally.

Yet they were but eight of the hundreds of Zealots...

...

Some Taken possess more power than others upon creation, thus why they gained their master’s attention before they were Taken. Their enhanced power makes them more favorable, thus why they are given more opportunities to Grow.

Taken Zealots form when they’ve gained enough power. By following the Sword Logic and slaying all before the Darkness, their power heightens. Their size and strength intensifies, becoming forces to be feared.

...

Oh reader mine, listen to my words. To the normal entity, they have great difficulty in defeating a single Taken.

But when faced with a Zealot, they are but an insect compared to its grand power.

When the Echo enters this realm and begins to Take, and if the Taken grow enough in power to become a Zealot...

...

I would say that there is no hope, oh reader mine. But that would assume that there is hope to begin with.

When the Echo Takes enough, the Taken will overrun this world. If but one Taken was too strong for an ‘elite’ force to handle, then an army of Taken will eradicate entire kingdoms with little resistence.

...

Mull over these words, oh reader mine.

You will have plenty of time to understand the gravity of the situation before the Echo breaches this world.

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Overcoming Self-Doubt

[PoV: Chevalier]

I eye the pair of doors hesitantly, starting to regret my choice on coming here.

I thankfully managed to escape Elisabeth’s grip a little while ago and came up with an excuse to not go with her to see this cyborg, and I had to come up with another excuse for Alicia to not go along with me.

It’s...not often that I go to places by myself, especially since one of the two (especially Alicia) insists on accompanying me. I...don’t really mind it most cases, in fact I greatly appreciate it. But...what I want to do right now? It’s...something I think would be best done without them.

...

Or at least...I thought.

Before me lay the locked doors of the containment hall, where dangerous individuals are held in order to prevent them from harming others.

...

I...am really beginning to regret my decision.

The only reason why I’m standing right here is because of one person, the one my team and I defeated.

Miasma.

Even after all she did, I...still feel bad for her. I empathize with her, how her experience and fear drove her to the extremes she did. She wanted a safe place, so she began taking everything to create said safe place.

Even...if it involved taking an entire town.

...

I hug myself, feeling increasingly reluctant.

This...is probably a bad idea. No, it IS a bad idea. Why did I even think it would be good? What am I going to do? Talk to her? I’m not even good at talking with those I know well! That and she probably despises me, since I’m the one responsible for getting her captured in the first place!

Not to mention how am I even gonna get inside? Only specific people can enter and leave, so how can I even get to her?

Yeah... I should just go back and forget this entire thing... What am I even thinking? Leave it to Chevalier, thinking of the worst ideas possi-

The doors in front of me beep before suddenly opening, causing me to jump. Stepping out is are two individuals, both of which I recognize.

The taller one draws my attention first, being no other than Godrey. The Bisharp centaur stops, his eyes widening somewhat with surprise under the visor of his ‘helmet’.

The other individual is the first to speak however.

“Chevalier? What brings you here?”

That voice belongs to no other than Honora, one of the individuals responsible for rehabilitating victims of the HWDP. She is an Infernape of lean stature, her ‘uniform’ merely consisting of a two-piece outfit that share the colors of the GoT. Tucked under her armpit is a clipboard, and her expression is also one of surprise.

I...am actually kinda lucky that she’s the one to show up. While although Euterpe also works in rehabilitating hybrids, Honora specializes in dealing with ‘unruly’ hybrids, like...Miasma. And...she’s also one of the approved people to enter and leave the containment hall freely.

But... Why do I feel that I’m not so...lucky?

“Come now, Chevalier. There is no need to be silent.” Godrey chuckles before taking a step forward. This makes me flinch, my wings instinctively wrapping around me.

The Infernape raises a hand before the centaur, making him pause. She then looks at me with a soft smile. “You are not in trouble, Chevalier. But if I may ask, why are you here?”

I...really wish I was small now, small enough to disappear.

“I...” I start weakly, not sure on how to even speak. “I...w-w...” I could only glance helplessly at the hallway behind them, not sure on how to voice out what I wish. I...don’t normally have this much difficulty talking to other guild members, but...being suddenly caught in this situation... I...don’t know what to do... Normally I would rehearse this scenario over and over until I have at least an ounce of confidence, but to have it suddenly thrown at me?

I...feel very lost...

She glances behind her before looking at me again, however she doesn’t seem to understand due to the confusion on her face. “It’s okay, Chevalier. Why don’t we all walk together? That way you can speak when you’re comfortable enough.”

The two just begin to walk towards me, but I immediately throw my hands up. “N-NO!” I shout, surprising both them and myself.

No, I can’t let them walk away, otherwise the doors will close. And if the doors close, it...will make asking them even...more difficult for me.

Come ON Chevalier, SPEAK!

“I...” I start, my face tensing under the mental strain of forcing myself to talk. “...n-need to go in there.” With a hand I weakly gesture to the hall behind them.

The two balk at me, Godrey however is the quickest to recover. “Absolutely not!” He says sharply. “Dear Chevalier, I don’t believe you understand-”

Honora once again raises her hand, but this time glares at the centaur.

I found myself hiding my face again with my wings, caused from Godrey’s outburst. I grit my fangs, despising myself for how weak willed I am.

“Why do you want to go in there, Chevalier?” Honora asks quietly, making me slowly open my wings to look at her.

Her face is as calm as ever, her smile sweet and understanding. She’s looking at me patiently, waiting for me to respond when I’m ready.

This makes me grit my teeth more, frustrated at my difficulty in saying even a simple sentence.

I’m not in trouble, they’re not mad at me. They just want to know why I’m here, and why I want in there. It’s an understandable curiosity, I don’t blame them for wanting to know.

But...why...is...it...so...DIFFICULT?!

COME ON!

SPEAK!

“I...need...to...” I say through gritted teeth, almost physically fighting to let those words out. “...see...Miasma.” My legs suddenly feel weak, making my knees wobble as I try to hold myself up.

I...did it...

The Infernape opens and closes her mouth, genuinely surprised. Eventually she places her free arm on her hip, her expression becoming contemplative.

Godfrey turns his head somewhat, his eyes narrowing a tad. “If...I also may ask...” He begins, this time more slowly and calmly. “Why do you wish to see her?”

I shrug my shoulders, only to immediately wince afterwords. No, I can’t act like I don’t know. Otherwise they won’t let me.

I...need to tell the truth.

...

No matter how hard it is.

...

I breathe in sharply, gritting my teeth again. “To...see if she’s...o-okay...” I let out, my voice strained.

The two blink again.

“That...is very thoughtful of you, Chevalier.” Honora says quietly, yet her smile grows unsure. “However...I don’t think now is the best time.”

I feel my breath catch in my throat. “W-Why?” I stutter.

“Let’s just say...” Godfrey responds lowly. “The girl is not in the best state of mind.”

Is this it then? I won’t be able to see her?

...

I clench my hands into fists.

No... Stay strong, Chevalier. Keep pushing.

“I...still want to...s-see her.” I press, my body shuddering as the words leave my mouth.

The two share a glance. Eventually Honora looks at me, her body tensing slightly. “Well...” She starts, but eventually said tension leaves her form with a sigh. “Alright, Chevalier. You can see her.”

I suddenly feel as if a weight just left my shoulders. However before the feeling fully sets in, Honora continues.

“But...you need to be careful.” She warns me. “She is...very upset, understandably so. So if she doesn’t react well when she sees you, just...” She mulls over the next set of words carefully before continuing. “...don’t take it personally, okay?”

I nod my head uncertainly. “O-okay...”

Godfrey shakes his head, muttering quietly about how ‘this isn’t a good idea’. Regardless the centaur backs up into the hallway before turning around. Honora follows after him, beckoning me to follow.

Even though I finally got what I wanted, I still hesitate as the two walk down. In the end, I’m still unsure with the whole thing. But...there’s no backing out now.

Mentally steeling myself I walk through, entering the gigantic hall.

The ‘containment hall’ is lined with thick metal doors, designed to keep its occupants inside. If...I remember correctly, there’s thankfully only a few people being held here. Most cases those in these cells are HWDP hybrids who are far too violent to go with ‘standard rehabilitation procedures’, the best examples being the two newest Hybrids: Rook and Miasma.

I’ve heard only a little bit on that draconic Bisharp hybrid from the Floral Triad, but...he’s not what I’m here for.

As the two of us walk past the numerous doors, something ahead of us makes me freeze.

Standing guard next to one of the cell doors is a machine, specifically a robot.

Said robot possesses a tall, thin body with two arms. One arm ends in a rifle-like gun with an ammo-belt that feeds into the weapon, on the other arm is a smaller gun that possesses needles that occasionally crackle with electricity. The machine has four spider-like legs at its base, and its ‘face’ consists of a pair of cameras that occasionally refocus.

I...recognize that machine, there used to be a few of them located at the HWDP facility I was contained.

I...also watched them brutally kill a Hybrid that tried to escape them.

Why...

Why...is it here?!

Honora seemed to have noticed that I wasn’t following them, my expression being like a Deerling in headlights.

“It’s okay Chevalier, it won’t hurt you!” She says quickly, snapping me out of my fear-induced stupor.

With a shaky hand I point at it. “W-Why is that thing h-here?!”

“We took it from one of our raids on an HWDP facility.” Godfrey responds to me. “Worry not, Chevalier. Jarvis controls it.”

That...is...actually a lot more assuring...

Jarvis is a Hybrid like me, and he’s...very good with technology...

So if the Porygon-Z hybrid is controlling it, then...it...should be...safe?

Honora looks at the machine, her expression turning to disgust when her gaze focuses on its weapons. “I still think the thing should’ve been destroyed.” She mutters. “Evolutia is no place for such death devices.”

The machine suddenly turns its gaze to the Infernape, making her flinch as the barrels of the weapons point at her general direction. Nothing comes from it however, since the machine resumes its sweeping scans.

“I share the same sediment.” Godrey nods in agreement. “Yet...it does have its uses, such as guarding this chamber without the need of other men and women.”

Honora rubs her eyes with her fingers. “Yeah... Regardless, Miasma’s cell is a little further down. Let’s keep going.”

The two continue forward, walking past the machine.

I still eye the machine warily. An inner, less rational part of me is wondering if it’s suddenly open fire on me the moment I walk into its field of view, DESPITE the reassurance that Jarvis is controlling it. I grit my teeth and forcefully push said feeling away, knowing that I’m just making myself look like an even greater idiot at this point.

Taking in another breath I hurriedly follow after them, trying my best to not look at the machine.

As I walk past it, through the corners of my eyes I notice it turn itself completely around...as if to make sure that its weapons aren’t pointing at my direction.

...

I stop, my fear replaced with confusion as I look at it.

It...didn’t do that with Honora and Godrey, why is it doing that with me?

The machine turns slightly, using the edges of its cameras to gaze at me. Using its body it gestures with its weapon towards the direction where Honora and Godfrey went, as if urging me to follow them.

...Jarvis?

Seeing the realization on my face, the machine merely bobs itself on its four legs slightly before continuing to urge me to follow.

At this point...I couldn’t help but smile, for the first time I’ve decided to come here.

Feeling much better than I originally was, I quickly follow after the two.

...

Thank you Jarvis...

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Disconnected

//...//

//So much information...//

//The HWDP truly have been busy...//

//...//

//Yet there’s still several things that I don’t have any answers of.//

//The Cage... Samuel Horus... And a few others...//

//...//

//However...I think there’s something else I need to do more research on...//

//Bladesong and the project she’s a part of, the CAP I believe.//

//...//

//There’s a good chance that I don’t have the required clearance to search it on this account but it doesn’t hurt to try-//

[YOU HAVE BEEN LOGGED OFF!]

//...//

//Wait...//

//...What?//

//Why did I get logged off...?//

//Let’s see if I can get back in...//

[USERNAME: Sally Hensworth] [ID: 2-A432] [PASSCODE: Cucum3rW1sheS]

[ERROR! USER IS CURRENTLY LOGGED IN!]

//Shit!//

//Shit shit shit shit shit!//

[YOU HAVE DISCONNECTED FROM PRIVATE SERVER-2031]

//...//

//...//

//I...am a fucking idiot...//

//...//

//I shouldn’t have stayed on for so long.//

//I should’ve logged off several hours ago, of course they’d start suspecting something when there’s a lot of sudden activity.//

//...//

//Arceus damn it...//

//Thankfully they won’t be able to trace my location, but...still...//

//I’m now down on an account to use.//

//That and the fact that they now know that someone is sifting through their stuff.//

//Damn...//

//Well, guess I’ll have to make do with what I found.//

//...//

//Shit...//

[thetakenpokemon]

FtV - The Awoken and the Dreaming City

Watcher from beyond the veil, yes...I am speaking to you.

I have information, information that will assist you with the future visions she will give you.

I would ask for you to settle yourself, but I see that you’ve already done so. Heh...

Let us begin.

...

Think back to the tales of the alternate Earth, where humanity lived through a great Golden Age before everything fell apart.

The forces of the Darkness struck down upon humanity, bringing what was known as the Great Collapse. Yet this tale doesn’t focus on Earth, you already know what happened.

What we are focusing on...are those who were on the edges of the Solar System.

Something happened to these Humans when the Darkness came. The Light of the Traveler combined with the Darkness...it changed them.

They were Humans no more...and thus they adopted a new name for themselves.

The Awoken.

...

...

The Awoken have the image of Humans, but other traits stand exclusively to them. Glowing and shimmering skin of blues, whites, purples, or even grays. Their eyes are luminescent, their irises glowing like small stars.

...

After the Collapse, the Awoken were divided. Some went and stayed on Earth, to help whoever’s left from the apocalyptic catastrophe. The rest shut themselves away, forming their own exclusive and isolated society within the depths of the place known as the Reef.

The Reef is within the asteroid belt, on the edge of the Traveler’s influence. The Awoken realized that they possessed a gift, a gift to wield abilities beyond Human understanding. They guarded these gifts zealously, utilizing it for their own benefits.

Of all these Awoken, the greatest of them stood out. Her name is Mara Sov, the Queen of the Awoken.

Mara Sov possessed great power and cunning, no other could match her wisdom and knowledge.

Serving under her are Awoken also gifted with great power, known as the Techeuns.

The Techeuns had a vast disposal of abilities. To craft intricate illusions, speak to others via telepathy, focus and control power of various sources, and much...much more. Yet these are merely the powers of the Techuens, Mara Sov however...could manipulate the fabrics of reality, and in doing so she used her power to craft herself a pocket dimension within the Ascendant Plane.

A Throne World.

Mara Sov possessed an understanding of the Darkness and its rules, and thus bypassed the ways of the Sword Logic to craft her exclusive realm. Yet this power wasn’t limited to a simple Throne World, for she and the Techeuns have locked away entire cities along the Reef in their own secluded realms. These realms could only be reached by ‘Watchtowers’, giant structures that possess gateways that only allowed those welcomed to the city to pass through.

The Awoken cities followed different rules, possessing technology and materials found nowhere else in the Solar System. The place would have been an alien wonder to outsiders, but none were allowed to step inside these cities...if they were even aware of them to begin with.

...

...

Although the Awoken thrived, they also fought in many battles. There were two battles most noteworthy...

The first was known as the Reef Wars, where the Awoken first broke from their isolation. Mara Sov noticed that many Fallen Houses were massing against the Last City on Earth in order to forcefully take the Traveler, so she chose to intervene.

The Fallen House known as the House of Wolves were seeking to reach Earth in order to reinforce their fellow Houses, but the Awoken intercepted them. The battle ultimately ended with the Awoken capturing the Wolf Kell Skolas, and thus the House was bent to Mara’s command.

Many other events happened after the Reef Wars, but I will not focus on those details...

Instead we will follow onto the next great battle, a war that I know you’re familiar with.

The Taken War.

Mara Sov saw visions of Oryx and his fleet, how the enraged king desired to avenge his dead son that was slain by the Traveler’s champions - the Guardians. Mara Sov gathered her forces and intercepted the Taken King at the rings of Saturn, where the next great battle was fought...

...and said battle ultimately ended with the Awoken armada in ruin.

The Awoken managed to cripple Oryx’s fleet, however nothing could be done against his mighty Dreadnought. The great weapon of the Dreadnought was activated to decimate the Awoken fleet, and thus they were wiped out in one blow.

Very few Awoken survived the battle, the only ones alive being the lucky few...or the ones who stayed behind to watch the Reef and its hidden cities.

...

...

No...I was wrong.

There are several particular individuals who survived the great battle on Saturn, and those were the Techeuns...

...and Mara Sov.

Mara Sov was forced into the Ascendant Realm, yet not her Throne World.

Although thought to be dead by her people, she wandered the Ascendant Plane to seek knowledge on her enemies... She found Oryx’s Throne World, she spoke with the thought-to-be-lost Toland, she discovered other pockets containing unknown places, and she saw glimpses of Oryx’s siblings...

Yet...she was not the only one to step into other Throne Worlds.

Oryx entered her Throne World, and thus discovered one of the greatest cities of the Awoken.

The Dreaming City.

The city was evacuated when Mara foresaw Oryx’s coming, yet not all left its walls...

Oryx took a powerful entity from the depths of the Dreaming City, an entity that was Mara Sov’s most secret weapon... Now it was Mara’s no longer, for this entity’s will belonged to Oryx.

This entity had a name, and she was known as Riven.

...

...

Riven wasn’t the only one to be Taken, for the surviving Techeuns also suffered the unfortunate fate.

Kalli, Shuro Chi, and Sedia. Each of them were bent to his will, to serve him and him alone.

...

Or at least...that was how it was supposed to be.

...

...

With Oryx’s death, a new entity took control of the Taken. And thus the allegiance of Riven and the Taken Techeuns shifted to their new master.

This entity is no other than the cunning Witch-Queen, Savathûn. With her brother’s death, she was clear to bend his armies to her own will. And thus his weapons...became hers.

...

...

...

Long after Oryx’s death, the Dreaming City was overrun with Taken. Savathûn had a plan, a grand...cunning plan. In order for it to succeed, she needed Riven.

...and Mara Sov knew this.

Within the Dreaming City her Acting-Regent Commander, Petra Venj contacted her through the Oracle Engine. An Awoken device designed to speak to those beyond the material realms, and because of it...she found Mara Sov.

Mara Sov spoke to Petra, and gave her an order.

She was to open the doors to the Dreaming City, to let in outsiders to help deal with the Taken forces. She wished Riven dead, and that the Techeuns be saved.

So the doors were open, and in...came the Guardians.

...

...

The Dreaming City holds an important role, you will see many future visions pertaining to it. They will teach you more of the Taken, of the Ascendant Plane, and most importantly...

...

...

No... I have said enough.

...

Watcher from beyond the veil, that is all I will say for now. Take this information and keep it, use it as a reference if you must. The reason is that all of these names hold great importance, for they will prevent possible confusion in the future.

...

I am done.

Until we speak again...

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - The 'Fight’, Pt. 1

[PoV: Bladesong]

“Three!”

I couldn’t help but feel extremely giddy, for this is going to be the first time in...a while since I’ve actually fought. And even then, those times were mostly just small tests Dr. Horus put me through to monitor me.

“Two!”

A grin forms on my lips, my two tendrils twitching with anticipation at the thought of fighting him. This’ll be my chance to really get the hang of this form, to fight an actual person so I’ll know what I can do!

“One!”

My smile weakens somewhat as I realize something. If I push myself...then would I end up hurting Chimera? My gaze turns to my bladed tendrils, their edges as sharp as ever.

...

Hold on, when Chimera would visit me he did bring up Richard before. He said that the Mime would place a barrier over people’s weapons so that they wouldn’t cut people.

So why didn’t he do it for mine? Did he forge-

“Go!”

The literal second the match began Chimera’s chest-core glows brilliantly and he immediately fires a purple laser from the palm of one of his hands, shattering my train of thought.

Time for me seem to slow for a brief moment, allowing my mind to comprehend the fast-moving beam heading straight for my body. In a blink I twist my frame to the side and step back, barely side-stepping the attack. The laser flies past me and strikes the wall of the dome, causing the shield to ripple violently from the impact.

Holy shit, that nearly hit me!

If it weren’t for my enhanced reaction time, I would’ve been hit by that attack and immediately been taken out.

I turn and glare at Chimera, my hands clenching into fists.

What the fuck was that?! That could’ve seriously hurt someone!

Chimera doesn’t say anything, instead his eyes show that he’s smirking.

The cheeky little fu-

He fires another laser, once again cutting off my train of thought.

This time I’ve been expecting it, so I step aside once again. The laser harmlessly flies by, the distance between my body and it being far less close than it was last time.

Just before I could feel satisfied, he follows up with another laser.

And another.

And another.

At this point I’m just constantly side-stepping, letting each attack fly by me without getting the satisfaction of even grazing me.

I feel my smirk return to my face, looking at Chimera with a ‘is that all you got?’ expression. Said Deoxys-hybrid narrows his eyes in response, but he doesn’t say anything.

He fires another laser from his hands, just like all of the previous times. Immediately I go to sidestep it, but the moment he saw me do this he extends his other palm and fires a second beam of raw energy.

My eyes widen upon seeing the second attack and I acted as quickly as I could. I kick hard off the ground and leap to the side, propelling myself at speeds no normal Gothitelle could hope to reach from a simple jump. I easily avoid the second laser...but now I’m heading to the edge of the dome at a VERY undesirable speed. I slam my spiked heels into the ground, creating a great deal of drag to slow myself down. Within a few second my momentum slows to a halt, but at the cost of...well...

I look at where I was, seeing a small crater from where I leapt as well as mini ‘trenches’ starting from where I slammed my heels into the concrete.

Shit, I did that??

No, don’t dwell on that. I got a fight to focus on.

Turning my gaze to Chimera I kick off the ground again, dashing towards him at rapidly with my form low to the ground. Within a time span of less than a second I already close the distance, and the moment I got within reach I lash out with one of my bladed tendrils with the desire to pay him back for those attacks earlier. Fuck the whole possibly hurting him thing, I threw that out the window the moment he tried shooting lasers at me.

Chimera leaps into the air, the blade of my tentacle just barely going under his feet. I once again dig my heels into the ground to halt my momentum before turning around, ready to charge down the location where he’ll land.

Only for me to pause, since...he...didn’t land??

Lo and behold, when I look up he’s hovering in the air with his arms crossed.

For Arceus’ sake, really??

Uncrossing his arms he cups his hands together, collecting energy between the appendages that quickly condense into a purple sphere.

Oh fuck no, I’m not gonna stand here and let you pull off another attack.

With a growl I crouch low to the ground before kicking off again, this time propelling myself into the air towards Deoxys with the force of a rocket, my tendrils outstretched.

Chimera quickly darts to the side to avoid me, the sphere of energy still cupped between his hands. Its size suddenly increases as its surface pulses, and with a thrust he launches it at the spot where I’m heading...

...which is the top of the dome.

Quickly turning my body around I slam into the barrier feet-first and not waiting another second I kick off again, launching myself away. And just barely too, for the second my feet leave the sphere impacts the spot where I just was. It explodes with a lot more force than I expected, creating a miniature shockwave that knocks my body off-balance and making me spin uncontrollably.

I hit the ground back-first, sending me rolling till I eventually hit the side of the dome...hard. With the sheer force I hit both the ground and the wall, I should’ve had at least half of my bones broken, but...that’s not the case for me.

Not even being a little worse for wear, I push myself back up and stand. My body definitely isn’t damaged, but that doesn't mean I’m not irritated.

And of course the second I’m up Chimera starts blasting me with more lasers.

I grit my teeth as the purple beam streaks for my chest, this time not leaving me any time to dodge.

What should I do? Take the attack?!

With no choice I cover myself with my arms and bring out my bladed tendrils, using them to obstruct the beam.

I feel the blades shake from the impact, but...nothing happened.

Uncovering myself I notice that there are scorch marks on the ground - one on either side of me, but the blades on the tendrils don’t even look like they’ve been damaged. The surrounding crowd is practically roaring, and Chimera - who is still flying - is looking at me with surprise.

What happened?!

“I don’t believe it!” I hear Maria cry out. “Her blades cut the laser in two!”

...What?

Chimera’s eyes narrow and he throws out another laser beam, but I don’t make a move to dodge it. Instead I narrow my eyes and keep my blades up.

Before my very eyes I see the laser hit my blades and just...splits upon contact with their edges, the two separate beams harmlessly striking the ground on either side of me.

Holy shit.

I know that my body is very durable, but these things can cut lasers? How does that even work?!

What the fuck did Dr. Horus even make me into?!

My shocked expression didn’t last too long though, since a smirk soon makes its way onto my face.

You know what? Ask questions later, ‘cus right now? I need to kick Chimera’s ass. Because I’m getting real sick of this.

And I know I’m gonna kick his ass. Why? Because I can cut fucking lasers with my blades, that’s what.

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Finding a Solution for Unsolved Dreams

[PoV: Rinako]

After making sure that my attire is at least somewhat properly in place, I proceed to make my way out of the room I’m staying in.

My mind is in a sleep-deprived haze, my movements sluggish and eyelids heavy. I walk down the tiny hall of the inn almost mindlessly, paying no need to...anything really.

The past several nights have been filled with nothing but the same exact nightmare, time after time...

I tread through a vast desert, the desert becomes replaced with a barren wasteland, the sun and stars burn out, and then...I reach that triangular structure that contains that...thing.

That monster.

And I always die in the end...

To get the same dream over and over has to mean something, especially when it doesn’t involve anything I’m familiar with. Something is happening or going to happen, and that dream is the sign.

Or...at least I think it is...

But regardless, what...am I supposed to make of it?

I let out a low groan and rub my forehead, knowing that there’s no chance I’m going to get anywhere in my current state. I need eat something and try to waken myself, since I can properly figure things out when my mind is clearer.

Taking the staircase down I reach the first floor of the inn, which also doubles as a pub. The activity of the place is relatively tame, meaning I’ve either arrived before or after lunch hour.

I silently curse at myself for forgetting to check the clock in my room, since as of currently I have no idea what time it is right now.

Sitting at one of the tables is Rodrigo, his hulking frame being easy for me to spot despite my sluggish state. He spies me at the staircase and waves me over, in which I eventually comply after registering his motions.

“Hello there Rinako! I was wondering when you’d wake up.” He chuckles, gesturing to the seat opposite him.

With a quiet grumble I take the seat and let my head fall onto the table, the smooth cool wood feeling nice on the skin of my forehead.

“Didn’t sleep well?” He asks me, his voice betraying his concern.

I simply look up at him, letting him see the dark bags under my eyes.

“Well...that answers my question...” He says slowly before crossing his arms, his single eye narrowing slightly. “Nightmares?”

I nod my head slowly before resting my head back onto the table. “Yes...” I mumble quietly. “And I’ve been getting the same one over and over again...”

I hear the sound of movement following with a new voice. “Can I get you anything?”

Rodrigo quickly speaks up in place of me, in which I’m rather thankful for. “She’d like some ice water please.” He says to what I assume is one of the waiters here. “And a platter of cheese bread too.”

As I hear the sounds of the waiter walking off Rodrigo starts talking to me again. “I didn’t quite catch what you said Rinako, with your voice being quiet and your head planted on the table. Could you repeat it?”

I let out a sigh and lift my head up, propping my chin onto a hand to hold myself up. “I’ve been having the same nightmare for the past four days.” I tell him, making him pause.

“The same...nightmare?” He repeats slowly.

I nod my head, my tired face contorting with irritation. “And what’s worse is that I have no idea what it means. It’s just the same thing over and over again, except nothing is familiar about it.” My chin slips out from under my hand and my head hits the table again, in which I let out a low groan of exhaustion and pain.

Rodrigo starts to speak, but I talk over him. “It’s not based off of anything in my memory. It’s not something caused from some sort of fear or trauma..."

I feel the weight shift on the table, probably Rodrigo resting his arms on it. “What exactly is happening in these nightmares?”

I lift my head up and cross my arms onto the table, in which I then perch my head onto them to give me a small bit of elevation. “I’m just...walking through a seemingly endless desert, the kind with giant sand dunes...”

Rodrigo nods his head, gesturing for me to continue.

I let out a sigh, my tired frown turning into one of apprehension. “Then...the desert suddenly turns into a sort of wasteland, made of smooth rock. There’s...a bunch of spire-like things jutting out of it.”

The Chesnaught’s face becomes unsure.

“And...” I continue. “Eventually I reach this gigantic triangular...building, or something. It’s like a big entrance that leads down into the earth, and I can’t see anything inside it.” The image is way too clear in my mind when I recall it. “Then...suddenly the sky turns dark, as if the sun and stars burned out of existence.”

At this point Rodrigo is definitely unsure, and he opens his mouth to speak...but closes it when I continue to talk.

“That’s not the end of it.” I say darkly. “After that? I see something in that doorway. A bunch of red, glowing eyes that belong to a monster.” My hands clench into fists. “That...monster, it’s big. Judging from the height on where I saw its eyes, it towers over pretty much anything and anyone that I know of.. But...that’s not the worst of it. It lets out a distorted scream, and then it creates this flash of light from what I think is hands and I...” I stop, suddenly finding myself feel unsure on what to say.

My silence only lasted for a few moments, however. “I...would say that I died, but...it seemed worse than that. Like I just...stopped existing.” I let out another sigh and close my eyes. “And then I would get the dream again the next day, and the day after that, and the day after that...”

Rodrigo leans back in his chair, despite it being designed to fit larger Pokemon it still creaked underneath his bulk. His expression is contemplative, showing me that he didn’t know what to make of it either. “Just to be clear...” He says slowly, his expression still thoughtful. “Nothing in that dream seems familiar to you?”

I shake my head slowly. “Nothing...” I respond tiredly.

He nods his head slowly. “Hmm...” He hums to himself. “In this case? I think you need to see someone.”

I look up at him slightly. “Like a doctor?”

Rodrigo lets out a snort. “In this area? Unlikely.” He glances to the entrance of the inn, looking outside. “This village is lucky enough to have clocks here, so I don’t think we’d find a doctor. Or at least someone possessing skills in modern medicine.” He shakes his head slightly. “What we need is a seer.”

Hearing this makes me perk up, the tight grasp of exhaustion immediately releasing its hold on my mind. “A seer?” I repeat, feeling dread well in my chest. “Like Vedika?”

The Chesnaught lets out a sharp laugh. “Oh DEFINITELY not! Vedika is a wielder of black magic! She’s no seer!”

Hearing this makes me relax, since the last thing I want is Vedika tampering with me. “Then...where will we find a seer? I doubt this place has one.”

“Ohh don’t be so quick in that assumption.” He grins at me, his single eye twinkling. “There’s actually a seer that lives in this quaint little village, and they don’t charge much for their services from what I’ve heard.”

I fully sit up on my chair for the first time since I’ve sat down. “So...we should head there right now then, to get this over with.” As much as I’m feeling slightly skeptical, I’m willing to do anything if it means I can rid myself of these nightmares. That and discern its meaning.

“Not so fast, Rinkao.” Rodrigo chuckles. “There’s still something else to be taken care of.”

I blink. “And...what would that be?”

At this moment the waiter returns, with a full cup of water as well as a steaming platter of cheese bread.

“Here you go.” They say with a smile, setting the hot plate down on the table. “Enjoy your meal!”

With that they walk away, leaving the food in front of me.

The moment the smell hits my nose I feel my mouth salivating, just now realizing that I haven’t eaten anything yet.

I must’ve looked like a starving Lycanroc, since Rodrigo laughs. “Eat! THEN we’ll see this seer.”

I didn’t need to be told twice.

[thetakenpokemon]

FtV - Not Extinct

“The hunt is done, all of the -------- are dead. No more will they pose a threat to humanity. No more will their tainted wishes tempt others, no more will their broken promises bring ruin.”

“With the -------- gone, we now may properly rebuild.”

“It’s not completely over. Destroy or lock away their bones, their taint still lingers within them.”

“Beasts, the lot of them. Good riddance.”

“The fighting was rough, but it’s over. Every last one of those things have been killed, our Guardians once again proved that they can fight anything.”

“I guess we’ve truly earned the title of Dragon-slayers.”

“This is a cause to celebrate, their whispers have finally been silenced.”

...

~You have slain us, oh murderer ours. You ignored our gifts and silenced our words~

~~You desired our deaths, and thus you fulfilled your will.~~

~~~We are not done. Our kind still lives on.~~~

~~~~The strongest of us watches from beyond, untouched by your Light.~~~~

~~~~~She waits, from beyond the Veil.~~~~~

...

Isn’t that right, oh observer mine?

[thetakenpokemon]

Interlude II - Delving Deeper Into the Files

//...//

//What else do we have here...//

[TEXT LOG: 7-1-2018-B09 | TAGS: TEXT, HARRY MORRISON, TERRORISTS, DAMAGE SURVEY, LOG, CLEARANCE LEVEL 2]

[OPENING FILE]

“Okay...so far things aren’t looking very good due to these ‘terrorists’.

We’ve lost a total of five Fetch teams, one armored convoy that was supposed to transport a fresh batch of Hybrids to The Cage, and one set of Snitch-Class CCWs. These people aren’t something to laugh at, they’re trained killers seeing that they took down an entire convoy that was armed to the teeth without getting detected.

Thankfully we did manage to get something on them, specifically on one of the cameras of the CCWs before they went dark. The image was brief and blurry, but it looked like an aircraft of some sort. However we couldn’t pick much else, since the CCWs were taken out by some sort of EMP. Regardless, it at least gives us an idea of what their method of transportation is.

[CLOSING LOG]

//Hmph, at least I have an idea of what they’re dealing with...//

//Yet it makes me wonder...//

//If someone is trying to sabotage the HWDP... Would they be possible allies?//

//...//

///Heh, I’ll dwell on that later...//

//What else is here...?//

[VIDEO LOG OF COMPUTER CONTROLLED WEAPON: SENTRY-CLASS #0312 | DATE: 5-12-2018-A02]

//Hmm, the Sentry-Class CCWs are often located in HWDP facilities, perhaps this will provide something useful...//

[OPENING FILE]

The visual feed supplied consists of a long corridor, the view of the camera is constantly making slow sweeping motions from side to side. Occasionally when the camera looks to the right, the armored heads of two guards are seen.

“-nd that’s why I don’t get it.” One of the guards continues through the speaker of his helmet. “After a few weeks, those hybrids just...disappear. Where do they go?”

“I know where they’re going.” The second guard says, his voice quieting. “But this sort of stuff is very confidential, so don’t start bringing it up to other people.”

“Technically everything is confidential here.” The first guard points out, however his voice also quiets. “Still, where are those things being taken to? Spill it.”

“Well, after the Hybrids are ready, they’re taken to this facility that they call ‘The Cage’.” The second guard begins to explain. “Normally they just refer to it by name, since they don’t want people to know about it.” As the camera of the CCW sweeps again, it shows the guard’s head lowered slightly. “But I’ve found out what it is. It’s a place where they do some really fucked up shit to those Hybrids.”

“Even more fucked up than what they do already?” The first guard asks incredulously.

“Dude, they fucking brainwash them.” The second guard exclaims, yet the volume of his voice is still relatively quiet.

“Wait...?” The first guard balks. “They brainwash them?”

“Yeah, they break their mind so that they can be turned into actual weapons.” The second guard says, the movement of his head showing that he’s nodding. “Admit it, these Hybrids will be resisting at every moment they’re able to. So when they’re all ‘prepped’, they’re taken to The Cage to have their minds broken. By the end of it, they’re nothing but animalistic puppets that attack anything you put a laser pointer at.” The guard pauses briefly before correcting himself. “Not literally, but you get what I mean.”

“Shit...” The first guard murmurs.

“Heh, it’s all good. It’s all done ‘for the greater good of mankind’.” The second guard chuckles, yet his tone doesn’t match his words.

“And this is why they keep this stuff quiet to the public.” The first guard mutters. “I’m surprised someone hasn’t said anything yet, since there’s bound to be people who think this is unacceptable.”

A soft clang is heard, created by the sound of a metal hand hitting a metal helmet. “Don’t be stupid, you know why.”

“Yeah yeah I know...sheesh...” The first guard grumbles. “They’ll fuck you up if you do.”

“Not just you.” The second guard says with irritation. “They’ll go after those you hold close too.”

“Oh...yeah...” The first guard says quietly, realizing.

“Let’s face it, we all have our reasons for working here. And it’s not just because we’re part of MasSec.” The second guard says dryly. “The pay is far better than your average assignment. In exchange for our cooperation, we get a massive bonus to our paycheck. As long as we don’t talk, everyone is happy.”

“Right...” The first guard sighs before pausing. “Actually, how long will you be working here?”

“For a few more years.” The second guard responds, his head moving as if he’s nodding. “Currently trying to make enough money so that my wife and I can live comfortably. We plan to have a baby at some point, so I’m trying to make enough so I can become a full-time dad.”

“Damn, good for you.” The first guard chuckles. “I’m still dating around, but I hope to find someone too. As nice as it is to be a bachelor, it’s getting to the point where I’m just wanting to settle down, you know?”

“Yeah, I get you.”

Silence falls for a brief moment, the only sound heard being the soft hum of the CCW. Eventually though they speak up again.

“Hey I just realized, we probably shouldn’t be having these kind of conversations while standing next to that thing.” The first guard points out, his armored hand barely in view as he points at the CCW.

“Relax, it’s fine. The Sentry-Class don’t pick up audio.” The second guard says. “Regardless, we need to keep moving. We’re gonna have our asses handed to us if they find out we’ve been doing nothing but talking. We’ve got a patrol to finish.”

[CLOSING LOG]

//...//

//Jokes on them, it does pick up audio.//

//...//

//Hmm...//

//’The Cage’.//

//I haven’t seen anything at all about it besides the occasional mention...//

//...//

//Let’s see if I can find anything specific on it...//

[SEARCH FILTER ADDED: THE CAGE]

[ERROR! YOU DO NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE LEVEL TO SEARCH THIS SUBJECT!] [CLEARANCE LEVEL REQUIREMENT: 1]

//Damn, that explains why nothing has been popping up.//

//Guess I’ll have to keep looking somewhere else...//