WARNING: There's gonna be spoilers. Mainly on Nier's side. So if you don't wanna get spoiled...
Blank Storage [Nier:Automata x Fate/Extra]
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Update I
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
WARNING: There's gonna be spoilers. Mainly on Nier's side. So if you don't wanna get spoiled, you probably shouldn't read this. If you don't mind being spoiled, you should probably check Clemps' videos.
---
You awake in a quiet gray room, lying underneath a strange white ceiling. No thoughts enter your mind, and not for a long moment. It's like you are a part of this room; a furniture, or an object. Something inanimate that doesn't have a hint of self-awareness; like the pillow under your head, or the dark chair against the desk. And then you blink. An intake of the sterile, and odorless air, as thoughts begin to form.
... Who am I? you blink again; twitch, and realize that you could move. It's both an awkward, and natural motion to you. Where am I? Some logic dictates that you should be panicking, that such a thing should be natural. It never comes. Why? you glance down to your... hands. Slender, and lithe. I'm a female? you blink again. Where is that thought coming from? Their digits move as you do. They're part of you. Somehow, it occurs to you that the reason why you're not panicking might be because that even though you don't remember, your body does. Strange, but you easily accept it as fact. Your right palm traces your left wrist. It's smooth, warm, and soft. Something tells you that that's not all. Why?
So many questions, but not enough answers. You expect frustration, but just like the panic, that too never comes. You let out a deep sigh. Resignation. After a moment, you decide to look around the - your? - room. It's small, not quite spartan, but minimalist; floor, wall, and ceiling that were made of some metallic material - and off the the corner, you spy a shelf filled sparsely by books. It appears that whoever owns this room - you? - is not an avid reader. Pressed against the window is an empty desk, and against the desk is a chair... you blink, eyes returning to the window. Or rather, beyond the window.
Black void, riddled with the occasional blinks of light. I'm in outer-space, you think. The revelation sets a series of odd incongruous feeling inside you: an unpleasant coldness that spreads through your skin, and some mild acceptance that everything is as should be. You grimace, grasping at your head. Pain lances into your brain; as though something is making a nest out of it. Migraine. Something tells you that this shouldn't be normal. You wince, groaning; find yourself stumbling off your bed, and would have hit your head on the desk's sharp corner if not for your hand shooting out to keep you standing. You breathe in. That is close.
There is a series of knocks from the other side of your door. You crane your body to face it, open your mouth, but before you could speak (what, exactly?), the door already hisses open. Golden blonde hair. Bright green eyes, and a smile that borders on confident, and puppy-like excitement. She is already stepping into the - your? - room even before you could say anything. Her high-heels click against the metal floor, chest puffed up, and hands on both sides. "3H, you're finally awake! How are you feeling?"
You stare at her, clueless. Whoever she is, she looks very familiar - and that is something that both your body, and your foggy mind seem to agree. Whatever happened, it's not enough to completely erase these… memories. She would look better in red, you think, almost ponderously.
"... Ah," there's a look of understanding on her face; sadness, and disappointment mixing together. "You forgot again, didn't you?" she takes a deep breath, and any trace of melancholy is swept away under a bright grin. "Indeed! Well, no matter. Nothing changes, really. This just means I'll have to explain it to you -"
Your body moves. One blink, and you realize that you are standing in front of her.
Green eyes widen. "U-um."
You take a deep breath. Something twitches inside you. Not quite guilt, but something close enough that it doesn't matter. Taking her hands into yours: "I'm sorry," you say. That feels right, somehow. Something tells you that this person is important, and even though you could not remember why exactly, it still doesn't matter, and you've made her upset, however unintentional it is.
"Three - 3H..." she mutters, before taking a deep breath. Her smile returns. Green eyes glimmer. "No matter how many times this has happened, you've always been the same. Indeed!" she straightened herself. "As I've said, nothing changes, so you don't need to apologize, 3H. I should be, for causing you such worry, however brief it is! Still," you blink. Your hold on her hands has been swiftly reversed before you realize it, her face practically inches from mine. "I do not mind this proximity."
"A-ah," you blink, leaning back. It's a bit stupid, since you were the one who started it, but you can't help but ponder what sort of realization you two are - were? - in.
She must have read your mind. Or your expression, you muse. "Hmm," she hums, with a hint of a smirk. "Calling it that sort of relationship would be inaccurate, but it would be safe to say that we're partners! We work together, and I, 5B, am your closest friend, 3H!"
So you work together with her. As partners (in-crime?), and 5B is your best friend. That makes sense to you, and so you accept that as truth. You are 3H - and there is something there in your head that isn't quite memory, but isn't not memory, that explains who you are: 3H, meaning YoRHa Android Model 3, Type Healer. Your duty is to both physically fix, and support other androids. 5B is an Android Model 5, Type Battler. As her build implies, she is a front-line fighter Machine Lifeforms, and she is assigned to you, as you are assigned to her, though more latter than former. In short, you are to be her closest confidante, emotional crutch, and nurse-slash-doctor - despite the fact that you are not qualified to become a therapist, and whatever knowledge you have in medicine (both mechanical, and biological) is planted so deep that whatever had happened is not enough to erase it. Isn't this kind of horribly half-baked?
You blink at the sudden wave of information, before shaking your head. That is out of nowhere - or rather than it being 'out of nowhere', it would be more accurate to say that it has always been there deep inside you, and 5B's introduction triggers the 'memory folder'. Odd, you couldn't help but think, that that memory would remain intact, but you forget everything else.
"Come on, 3H!" 5B exclaims, and you find yourself being dragged out of your room by the hand. You don't fight it. She seems like a perpetually cheerful girl, swaggering confidently through the dull hallway; occasionally, you would see fellow Androids idling, or talking in groups. "The Commander wants to talk with us, so I'll fill you in along the way..." and she does, though calling it 'fill you in' would be an exaggeration (but then, everything about her is exaggerated, in a really sincere way). Instead, it is that 5B talks a lot about herself, and you pick enough details from it to learn about yourself. And... it is nice, somehow. Is it because of how you are programmed, or...
You shake your head, and stop that line of thought. It isn't a track you're keen to follow through. 5B takes a deep breath; a pause in her talking, and you grab your chance to ask: "5B," you call out. She stills in her steps, looking over her shoulders. "Am I always like... this?" you gesture vaguely at yourself. 5B has already said 'again' and that's probably more than enough, but it's not exactly something you could ignore even if you already know the answer.
"A-ah?" 5B nearly stumbles. Bright green eyes widen, and for a flash second, you spot sorrow. "... Y-yes," she grimaces, turning her head back to her front, walking slower. "You are always like this. Something inherent within your Model. Your memory would inevitably erode, even when they're recorded. The Command, they tried to fix the problem... but to do that - but don't worry!" 5B declares suddenly, cutting herself off as she whirls to face you; the sadness is gone, replaced by confident determination. "No matter how many times you forget, you're always you , and I will always be by your side, 3H! Nothing changes." she takes both of your hands. "This, as Model Number 5; Type Battler, I promise!"
So I'm a defect, you think, closing your eyes with a nod. It is strange how easy you accept it. Or perhaps instead of 'acceptance', it is more 'resignation'. Unbidden, as you see the cheer in 5B's eyes, your mind returns to the last couple line of thoughts: Isn't this kind of horribly half-baked? No, it is worse than half-baked. It is just plain horrible as a whole. A complete, total design flaw. Who assigns - no. Who creates a chronically amnesiac android in the first place? And then assigns it as as a Healer? Wouldn't that be torture for 5B? To have someone she cares about forget about her? How many times has this happened, you wonder. "... Thank you, 5B," you say eventually, smiling at her. Sadness doesn't fit 5B at all - and doesn't that create a conflict in you? You are supposed to be - you want to make her happy, but you also, however out-of-your-hand it is, causes her sadness due to your own defect. What evil god designed me? "I promise I'll do the same."
"Umumu," she mumbled, nodding happily. What a strange voice tick. She turns around; her gait returning into a confident swagger. "Let us go onward, and meet the Commander. I am sure she will be giving us an important mission!"
She didn't.
Or rather, the Commander didn't give the two of you a mission that sounded important, and rather than a 'mission' it would be more apt to call it an 'errand'. It made sense, of course. You need get used with yourself. Though it certainly blew at 5B's pride, even if she recovers almost immediately. That is the sort of person you have quickly identify 5B as; boisterous, and confident in almost every way possible, but not to the point of obnoxiousness. Not for you, at least - and once again, that thought leads to a path you're not quite willing to walk on. It doesn't matter, you suppose, whether you are programmed to find your partner charming - or if it's just you personally that finds her charming.
"Umumu," 5B mumbles, nodding her head with a smile as she steps out of the Access Point, arms crossed beneath her chest. Hm. "It's a shame that the Commander did not give us a mission as glorious as I expected, but nonetheless!" she exclaims. "This does not make this mission any less important. In fact..." she trails off into a hum, eyeing the area speculatively.
This 'area' to be specific is the Resistance Camp against the Machine Lifeforms; a vast ground clearing surrounded by ruined buildings. Non-YoRHa androids wandering freely, wearing shades of brown uniform. The difference of uniform between yours, and theirs are so different that you feel a fleeting sense of self-consciousness. You push that away to focus on the view. There are white tents in the open ground, protecting the Resistance androids, as well as tools, and machinery from the sun. There is another passage that leads deeper into the camp; shaded beneath a large bridge, but for the moment, you turn back to 5B.
"We're supposed to meet with Anemone," you tell her.
"Indeed," she nods again, before quickly scanning the camp. "I admit, this is the first time I am here, and really, I am quite eager to explore the place," she hums under her breath. "It's indeed different to the dull, and gray Bunker, no?"
Of that, you have to agree. Indeed, as expected, even the air itself is different. Where the Bunker's is clean, in a sterile, filtered, and odorless way; the camp here is almost the opposite. Of dirt, dews, and plants, and nature, and life. It is clean in a different way to the Bunker; here it is unadulterated, and unfiltered. "It is,"younod.
"Umumu..." she mumbles, before turning straight at the tent on the 'head' of the camp. There is a few androids there; two of them conversing together; one of them wearing a full brown clothing with a shawl that barely revealed any skin but her brown face. 5B smiles. "That must be her. Anemone. The flower, not the marine creature. What a nice name, I have to say..." she turns to mutter - too quiet for you to hear - before she shakes her head; bright green eyes panning to you. "Come; let's talk to her about our mission, 3H."
"Yes, yes," you say, then, after a moment: "Do you like flowers, 5B?"
"Naturally!" she answers immediately. "Flowers are beautiful things, no? I myself am partial to red roses," she bobs her head at that. "It's a bold, and passionate flower, and everyone could see it, and understand its magnificence!"
For a brief moment, you wonder if she is describing herself, or the flower. Both, probably. Certainly, you could imagine it. "They sound like you, 5B," you tease. And then, after a moment: "I think you would look good in red."
"W-wha -" she turns to you with a dear-in-a-headlight look; her cheeks flush red. "Thr - 3H, you're - that -" she stops herself, placing a hand over her chest. One, two, three, she seems to breathe. And then she grins, cheeks rosy pink: "3H, I couldn't agree more," she says, nodding in a wistful manner as she gestures at her dress. It is a black, grim gown. It is YoRHa's official uniform. It looks beautiful, but it's something worn for the funeral dirge, not something someone of 5B's temperament should wear. For a brief moment, you to picture 5B in a red dress. Something bold, but not obnoxious. Something revealing, but not too lewd.
Hmm. Indeed, indeed... That's not a bad picture at all.
"3H, why are you nodding like that? In fact, why are you looking at me like that?" she asks, half-stammering. "Not that I'm unhappy. I am proud of my model, after all!" she exclaims, before pointing a finger at me: "In fact, you could stare at me all you like!" then her finger twitches; slumps slightly. "But there's something different about that look! Tell me, 3H!"
"It's a secret," you deny with a smile. There has to be a way you could procure...
She pouts, despite the delight in her eyes. It tells you that you're doing the right thing; tells you that the melancholy from earlier is fading. "3H, you are being too -"
"Ahem," there is a clearing of the throat. We both glance to the noise. She is taller than both of you, even if for a few inches. Tanned skin from her face, with a pair of crystal blue eyes; brows quirked in wry amusement. Anemone, Leader of the Resistance. Or at least, you think it's her, since you see no reason why she would interrupt you otherwise... Belatedly, you realize that you've forgotten why you are here in the first place, and that you have been talking right in front of her. "You two must be -"
"It's impolite to interrupt a conversation,"you blink at the tone. 5B stares at Anemone with half-lidded eyes. Cold, and frigid. Almost emotionless. Imperious, in a way. Like a god staring at an ant. "Especially when you're butting in without permission."
I blink again. Well. This is a side you never expected from 5B. Granted, it has been just a few hours, but… it still surprises you, how out-of-nowhere it feels.
For a moment, even Anemone is taken aback. She recovers quickly though; her stature seems taller, and her eyebrows lazier. "... Considering the situation, I think you can make an exception," she states simply.
5B stares back, unimpressed.
Ah. You should probably stop this from escalating. Your Partner jolts a bit as you place a hand over her shoulder. Green eyes looks at you, frowning. "It's fine, 5B. And she's not wrong - we are supposed to talk with her."
5B glances at the Resistance Woman, before mumbling something under her breath. Her pitiful look makes you want to comfort her. "... If you say so, 3H."
The Resistance Woman's eyes alternate between the two of you, before settling back on you. She seems amused, somehow. "... I am Anemone. But returning to what I was about to say: you two must be the pair your Commander told me about. 3H, and 5B?" you nod. "Good. She said that you're here to help us around the camp. It may not seem much," she acknowledges. "But every help against the Machine Life-form counts, right now. You could ask around the camp; see if they need something."
There is a sigh from your side. "... So it is a chore," 5B sulked. Ah, 5B must have had held some hope that the Commander would be more than a simple series of errands. Alas. "Hmph. It is fine," she says, more to herself than anyone, as she turns to Anemone. "Anyone we should talk to?"
She nods, before pointing a finger off to the side of the camp; following it leads me to a large dark-skinned, and bald-haired android talking with a paler, and younger-looking red-haired android. "Hammer just got himself an apprentice, Shield. Think they need some tools? There's also Sache," her finger points to the other side of the camp; another dark skinned man sitting cross-legged on the ground, tinkering with his leg. "His legs got busted again, and he's too stubborn to ask for help. There's Saber, our best warrior. She's always too busy fighting she forgets about other things. It's... concerning," she pauses, taking a breath. "There's Wisteria sitting by the jukebox. Key, talking to Six; she's the one wearing that machine head, and..." she trails off; something flashes through her expression, not unlike hesitance. When she spoke again, her voice is quiet: "... Talk to Popola, and Devola. They're at the far corner of the camp."
5B frowns, perhaps catching the tone; perhaps at something else. "Is that everything?" she asks.
"Everything that comes to mind," Anemone nods.
A sigh. 5B scans through the camp once more. You follow her once she steps away from Anemone. You shoot her a grateful nod, which she returns with an exasperated smile, then you turn to 5B. "Are you alright?"
She blinks, and then smiles. "I'm fine. It's..." she trails off, before sighing; her head droops a little as she crosses her arms. "I lost my temper there, 3H," she bites her lips. "And I showed you something unsightful, and..." she trails off, grimacing. "Even if..."
"Oh," you say, then you smile. Hours with 5B has taught you a lot about her personality. Or maybe it is less that, and more of the accumulation of 'unconscious' memories that not even your defectiveness could fully format out; like retracing a picture when you have all the dots to connect. Regardless, you know what to say, and what you want to say: "I think it's adorable," you admit, and 5B nearly stumbles. Green eyes stare at you. "That you would react that strongly. Makes me a little happy too, that I could see another side of you," you smile wryly. "Though I think I've seen that before, haven't I? But... I think you're cuter when you're happy."
In truth, it bothers me a little, but not for the reasons 5B seems to be implying
She flushed red. Success. "T-t-three!" she stammers, and then blinks. You blink. She takes a deep breath. "3H, it makes me happy you're saying this but," she makes a noise of frustration. She sighs, smiling, and you blink again. Something spikes through your heart. That's not what you want - "You... you're too... thank you. Now!" she exclaims, and that smile vanishes with a grin. "Let us commence our mission!"
You want to say something. But for once, you couldn't find the words. Your throat clenches tight, and you quietly walk by her side.
[] Approach Hammer, and Shield. Considering that they're apparently the one responsible for weapons in the camp, their needs is probably pretty important.
[] Approach Sache. His legs are busted, and you're… well, you're a Healer Type. You're pretty sure you could help, at least.
[] Approach Saber. The blonde-haired android is apparently the strongest warrior in the Camp? Nevertheless, she seems to be just standing there for the moment, and since Anemone implied that she's almost always busy...
[] Approach Wisteria. The orange-haired android seems happy sitting alone by the jukebox. But since Anemone mentioned her, you should probably ask the woman anyway.
[] Approach Key, and Six. The brown-haired android seems to be talking animatedly with the machine-headed one. Since Anemone mentioned him, you should probably check… however much you're hesitating.
[] Approach Popola, and Devola. They're sitting alone at the corner of the camp. There's something in Anemone's tone. You should probably check.
---
Blank Storage
(FateExtra/Nier)
(FateExtra/Nier)
You awake in a quiet gray room, lying underneath a strange white ceiling. No thoughts enter your mind, and not for a long moment. It's like you are a part of this room; a furniture, or an object. Something inanimate that doesn't have a hint of self-awareness; like the pillow under your head, or the dark chair against the desk. And then you blink. An intake of the sterile, and odorless air, as thoughts begin to form.
... Who am I? you blink again; twitch, and realize that you could move. It's both an awkward, and natural motion to you. Where am I? Some logic dictates that you should be panicking, that such a thing should be natural. It never comes. Why? you glance down to your... hands. Slender, and lithe. I'm a female? you blink again. Where is that thought coming from? Their digits move as you do. They're part of you. Somehow, it occurs to you that the reason why you're not panicking might be because that even though you don't remember, your body does. Strange, but you easily accept it as fact. Your right palm traces your left wrist. It's smooth, warm, and soft. Something tells you that that's not all. Why?
So many questions, but not enough answers. You expect frustration, but just like the panic, that too never comes. You let out a deep sigh. Resignation. After a moment, you decide to look around the - your? - room. It's small, not quite spartan, but minimalist; floor, wall, and ceiling that were made of some metallic material - and off the the corner, you spy a shelf filled sparsely by books. It appears that whoever owns this room - you? - is not an avid reader. Pressed against the window is an empty desk, and against the desk is a chair... you blink, eyes returning to the window. Or rather, beyond the window.
Black void, riddled with the occasional blinks of light. I'm in outer-space, you think. The revelation sets a series of odd incongruous feeling inside you: an unpleasant coldness that spreads through your skin, and some mild acceptance that everything is as should be. You grimace, grasping at your head. Pain lances into your brain; as though something is making a nest out of it. Migraine. Something tells you that this shouldn't be normal. You wince, groaning; find yourself stumbling off your bed, and would have hit your head on the desk's sharp corner if not for your hand shooting out to keep you standing. You breathe in. That is close.
There is a series of knocks from the other side of your door. You crane your body to face it, open your mouth, but before you could speak (what, exactly?), the door already hisses open. Golden blonde hair. Bright green eyes, and a smile that borders on confident, and puppy-like excitement. She is already stepping into the - your? - room even before you could say anything. Her high-heels click against the metal floor, chest puffed up, and hands on both sides. "3H, you're finally awake! How are you feeling?"
You stare at her, clueless. Whoever she is, she looks very familiar - and that is something that both your body, and your foggy mind seem to agree. Whatever happened, it's not enough to completely erase these… memories. She would look better in red, you think, almost ponderously.
"... Ah," there's a look of understanding on her face; sadness, and disappointment mixing together. "You forgot again, didn't you?" she takes a deep breath, and any trace of melancholy is swept away under a bright grin. "Indeed! Well, no matter. Nothing changes, really. This just means I'll have to explain it to you -"
Your body moves. One blink, and you realize that you are standing in front of her.
Green eyes widen. "U-um."
You take a deep breath. Something twitches inside you. Not quite guilt, but something close enough that it doesn't matter. Taking her hands into yours: "I'm sorry," you say. That feels right, somehow. Something tells you that this person is important, and even though you could not remember why exactly, it still doesn't matter, and you've made her upset, however unintentional it is.
"Three - 3H..." she mutters, before taking a deep breath. Her smile returns. Green eyes glimmer. "No matter how many times this has happened, you've always been the same. Indeed!" she straightened herself. "As I've said, nothing changes, so you don't need to apologize, 3H. I should be, for causing you such worry, however brief it is! Still," you blink. Your hold on her hands has been swiftly reversed before you realize it, her face practically inches from mine. "I do not mind this proximity."
"A-ah," you blink, leaning back. It's a bit stupid, since you were the one who started it, but you can't help but ponder what sort of realization you two are - were? - in.
She must have read your mind. Or your expression, you muse. "Hmm," she hums, with a hint of a smirk. "Calling it that sort of relationship would be inaccurate, but it would be safe to say that we're partners! We work together, and I, 5B, am your closest friend, 3H!"
So you work together with her. As partners (in-crime?), and 5B is your best friend. That makes sense to you, and so you accept that as truth. You are 3H - and there is something there in your head that isn't quite memory, but isn't not memory, that explains who you are: 3H, meaning YoRHa Android Model 3, Type Healer. Your duty is to both physically fix, and support other androids. 5B is an Android Model 5, Type Battler. As her build implies, she is a front-line fighter Machine Lifeforms, and she is assigned to you, as you are assigned to her, though more latter than former. In short, you are to be her closest confidante, emotional crutch, and nurse-slash-doctor - despite the fact that you are not qualified to become a therapist, and whatever knowledge you have in medicine (both mechanical, and biological) is planted so deep that whatever had happened is not enough to erase it. Isn't this kind of horribly half-baked?
You blink at the sudden wave of information, before shaking your head. That is out of nowhere - or rather than it being 'out of nowhere', it would be more accurate to say that it has always been there deep inside you, and 5B's introduction triggers the 'memory folder'. Odd, you couldn't help but think, that that memory would remain intact, but you forget everything else.
"Come on, 3H!" 5B exclaims, and you find yourself being dragged out of your room by the hand. You don't fight it. She seems like a perpetually cheerful girl, swaggering confidently through the dull hallway; occasionally, you would see fellow Androids idling, or talking in groups. "The Commander wants to talk with us, so I'll fill you in along the way..." and she does, though calling it 'fill you in' would be an exaggeration (but then, everything about her is exaggerated, in a really sincere way). Instead, it is that 5B talks a lot about herself, and you pick enough details from it to learn about yourself. And... it is nice, somehow. Is it because of how you are programmed, or...
You shake your head, and stop that line of thought. It isn't a track you're keen to follow through. 5B takes a deep breath; a pause in her talking, and you grab your chance to ask: "5B," you call out. She stills in her steps, looking over her shoulders. "Am I always like... this?" you gesture vaguely at yourself. 5B has already said 'again' and that's probably more than enough, but it's not exactly something you could ignore even if you already know the answer.
"A-ah?" 5B nearly stumbles. Bright green eyes widen, and for a flash second, you spot sorrow. "... Y-yes," she grimaces, turning her head back to her front, walking slower. "You are always like this. Something inherent within your Model. Your memory would inevitably erode, even when they're recorded. The Command, they tried to fix the problem... but to do that - but don't worry!" 5B declares suddenly, cutting herself off as she whirls to face you; the sadness is gone, replaced by confident determination. "No matter how many times you forget, you're always you , and I will always be by your side, 3H! Nothing changes." she takes both of your hands. "This, as Model Number 5; Type Battler, I promise!"
So I'm a defect, you think, closing your eyes with a nod. It is strange how easy you accept it. Or perhaps instead of 'acceptance', it is more 'resignation'. Unbidden, as you see the cheer in 5B's eyes, your mind returns to the last couple line of thoughts: Isn't this kind of horribly half-baked? No, it is worse than half-baked. It is just plain horrible as a whole. A complete, total design flaw. Who assigns - no. Who creates a chronically amnesiac android in the first place? And then assigns it as as a Healer? Wouldn't that be torture for 5B? To have someone she cares about forget about her? How many times has this happened, you wonder. "... Thank you, 5B," you say eventually, smiling at her. Sadness doesn't fit 5B at all - and doesn't that create a conflict in you? You are supposed to be - you want to make her happy, but you also, however out-of-your-hand it is, causes her sadness due to your own defect. What evil god designed me? "I promise I'll do the same."
"Umumu," she mumbled, nodding happily. What a strange voice tick. She turns around; her gait returning into a confident swagger. "Let us go onward, and meet the Commander. I am sure she will be giving us an important mission!"
[Blank Storage]
She didn't.
Or rather, the Commander didn't give the two of you a mission that sounded important, and rather than a 'mission' it would be more apt to call it an 'errand'. It made sense, of course. You need get used with yourself. Though it certainly blew at 5B's pride, even if she recovers almost immediately. That is the sort of person you have quickly identify 5B as; boisterous, and confident in almost every way possible, but not to the point of obnoxiousness. Not for you, at least - and once again, that thought leads to a path you're not quite willing to walk on. It doesn't matter, you suppose, whether you are programmed to find your partner charming - or if it's just you personally that finds her charming.
"Umumu," 5B mumbles, nodding her head with a smile as she steps out of the Access Point, arms crossed beneath her chest. Hm. "It's a shame that the Commander did not give us a mission as glorious as I expected, but nonetheless!" she exclaims. "This does not make this mission any less important. In fact..." she trails off into a hum, eyeing the area speculatively.
This 'area' to be specific is the Resistance Camp against the Machine Lifeforms; a vast ground clearing surrounded by ruined buildings. Non-YoRHa androids wandering freely, wearing shades of brown uniform. The difference of uniform between yours, and theirs are so different that you feel a fleeting sense of self-consciousness. You push that away to focus on the view. There are white tents in the open ground, protecting the Resistance androids, as well as tools, and machinery from the sun. There is another passage that leads deeper into the camp; shaded beneath a large bridge, but for the moment, you turn back to 5B.
"We're supposed to meet with Anemone," you tell her.
"Indeed," she nods again, before quickly scanning the camp. "I admit, this is the first time I am here, and really, I am quite eager to explore the place," she hums under her breath. "It's indeed different to the dull, and gray Bunker, no?"
Of that, you have to agree. Indeed, as expected, even the air itself is different. Where the Bunker's is clean, in a sterile, filtered, and odorless way; the camp here is almost the opposite. Of dirt, dews, and plants, and nature, and life. It is clean in a different way to the Bunker; here it is unadulterated, and unfiltered. "It is,"younod.
"Umumu..." she mumbles, before turning straight at the tent on the 'head' of the camp. There is a few androids there; two of them conversing together; one of them wearing a full brown clothing with a shawl that barely revealed any skin but her brown face. 5B smiles. "That must be her. Anemone. The flower, not the marine creature. What a nice name, I have to say..." she turns to mutter - too quiet for you to hear - before she shakes her head; bright green eyes panning to you. "Come; let's talk to her about our mission, 3H."
"Yes, yes," you say, then, after a moment: "Do you like flowers, 5B?"
"Naturally!" she answers immediately. "Flowers are beautiful things, no? I myself am partial to red roses," she bobs her head at that. "It's a bold, and passionate flower, and everyone could see it, and understand its magnificence!"
For a brief moment, you wonder if she is describing herself, or the flower. Both, probably. Certainly, you could imagine it. "They sound like you, 5B," you tease. And then, after a moment: "I think you would look good in red."
"W-wha -" she turns to you with a dear-in-a-headlight look; her cheeks flush red. "Thr - 3H, you're - that -" she stops herself, placing a hand over her chest. One, two, three, she seems to breathe. And then she grins, cheeks rosy pink: "3H, I couldn't agree more," she says, nodding in a wistful manner as she gestures at her dress. It is a black, grim gown. It is YoRHa's official uniform. It looks beautiful, but it's something worn for the funeral dirge, not something someone of 5B's temperament should wear. For a brief moment, you to picture 5B in a red dress. Something bold, but not obnoxious. Something revealing, but not too lewd.
Hmm. Indeed, indeed... That's not a bad picture at all.
"3H, why are you nodding like that? In fact, why are you looking at me like that?" she asks, half-stammering. "Not that I'm unhappy. I am proud of my model, after all!" she exclaims, before pointing a finger at me: "In fact, you could stare at me all you like!" then her finger twitches; slumps slightly. "But there's something different about that look! Tell me, 3H!"
"It's a secret," you deny with a smile. There has to be a way you could procure...
She pouts, despite the delight in her eyes. It tells you that you're doing the right thing; tells you that the melancholy from earlier is fading. "3H, you are being too -"
"Ahem," there is a clearing of the throat. We both glance to the noise. She is taller than both of you, even if for a few inches. Tanned skin from her face, with a pair of crystal blue eyes; brows quirked in wry amusement. Anemone, Leader of the Resistance. Or at least, you think it's her, since you see no reason why she would interrupt you otherwise... Belatedly, you realize that you've forgotten why you are here in the first place, and that you have been talking right in front of her. "You two must be -"
"It's impolite to interrupt a conversation,"you blink at the tone. 5B stares at Anemone with half-lidded eyes. Cold, and frigid. Almost emotionless. Imperious, in a way. Like a god staring at an ant. "Especially when you're butting in without permission."
I blink again. Well. This is a side you never expected from 5B. Granted, it has been just a few hours, but… it still surprises you, how out-of-nowhere it feels.
For a moment, even Anemone is taken aback. She recovers quickly though; her stature seems taller, and her eyebrows lazier. "... Considering the situation, I think you can make an exception," she states simply.
5B stares back, unimpressed.
Ah. You should probably stop this from escalating. Your Partner jolts a bit as you place a hand over her shoulder. Green eyes looks at you, frowning. "It's fine, 5B. And she's not wrong - we are supposed to talk with her."
5B glances at the Resistance Woman, before mumbling something under her breath. Her pitiful look makes you want to comfort her. "... If you say so, 3H."
The Resistance Woman's eyes alternate between the two of you, before settling back on you. She seems amused, somehow. "... I am Anemone. But returning to what I was about to say: you two must be the pair your Commander told me about. 3H, and 5B?" you nod. "Good. She said that you're here to help us around the camp. It may not seem much," she acknowledges. "But every help against the Machine Life-form counts, right now. You could ask around the camp; see if they need something."
There is a sigh from your side. "... So it is a chore," 5B sulked. Ah, 5B must have had held some hope that the Commander would be more than a simple series of errands. Alas. "Hmph. It is fine," she says, more to herself than anyone, as she turns to Anemone. "Anyone we should talk to?"
She nods, before pointing a finger off to the side of the camp; following it leads me to a large dark-skinned, and bald-haired android talking with a paler, and younger-looking red-haired android. "Hammer just got himself an apprentice, Shield. Think they need some tools? There's also Sache," her finger points to the other side of the camp; another dark skinned man sitting cross-legged on the ground, tinkering with his leg. "His legs got busted again, and he's too stubborn to ask for help. There's Saber, our best warrior. She's always too busy fighting she forgets about other things. It's... concerning," she pauses, taking a breath. "There's Wisteria sitting by the jukebox. Key, talking to Six; she's the one wearing that machine head, and..." she trails off; something flashes through her expression, not unlike hesitance. When she spoke again, her voice is quiet: "... Talk to Popola, and Devola. They're at the far corner of the camp."
5B frowns, perhaps catching the tone; perhaps at something else. "Is that everything?" she asks.
"Everything that comes to mind," Anemone nods.
A sigh. 5B scans through the camp once more. You follow her once she steps away from Anemone. You shoot her a grateful nod, which she returns with an exasperated smile, then you turn to 5B. "Are you alright?"
She blinks, and then smiles. "I'm fine. It's..." she trails off, before sighing; her head droops a little as she crosses her arms. "I lost my temper there, 3H," she bites her lips. "And I showed you something unsightful, and..." she trails off, grimacing. "Even if..."
"Oh," you say, then you smile. Hours with 5B has taught you a lot about her personality. Or maybe it is less that, and more of the accumulation of 'unconscious' memories that not even your defectiveness could fully format out; like retracing a picture when you have all the dots to connect. Regardless, you know what to say, and what you want to say: "I think it's adorable," you admit, and 5B nearly stumbles. Green eyes stare at you. "That you would react that strongly. Makes me a little happy too, that I could see another side of you," you smile wryly. "Though I think I've seen that before, haven't I? But... I think you're cuter when you're happy."
In truth, it bothers me a little, but not for the reasons 5B seems to be implying
She flushed red. Success. "T-t-three!" she stammers, and then blinks. You blink. She takes a deep breath. "3H, it makes me happy you're saying this but," she makes a noise of frustration. She sighs, smiling, and you blink again. Something spikes through your heart. That's not what you want - "You... you're too... thank you. Now!" she exclaims, and that smile vanishes with a grin. "Let us commence our mission!"
You want to say something. But for once, you couldn't find the words. Your throat clenches tight, and you quietly walk by her side.
[] Approach Hammer, and Shield. Considering that they're apparently the one responsible for weapons in the camp, their needs is probably pretty important.
[] Approach Sache. His legs are busted, and you're… well, you're a Healer Type. You're pretty sure you could help, at least.
[] Approach Saber. The blonde-haired android is apparently the strongest warrior in the Camp? Nevertheless, she seems to be just standing there for the moment, and since Anemone implied that she's almost always busy...
[] Approach Wisteria. The orange-haired android seems happy sitting alone by the jukebox. But since Anemone mentioned her, you should probably ask the woman anyway.
[] Approach Key, and Six. The brown-haired android seems to be talking animatedly with the machine-headed one. Since Anemone mentioned him, you should probably check… however much you're hesitating.
[] Approach Popola, and Devola. They're sitting alone at the corner of the camp. There's something in Anemone's tone. You should probably check.
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Quest List
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
Main Quests:
Ongoing Side-Quests:
Completed Quests:
- Find a way to cure your defect.
- Find more about Caster.
Ongoing Side-Quests:
- Create a Red Fancy Dress Uniform for 5B!
- Aid Popola and Devola in their endeavor.
- Finish Sache's Request for Materials!
Completed Quests:
- Hunt the White Boar
- Kill the Red Machine
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Weapon Stories
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
Original Fire
A sword that is shaped like fire. Rather than an actual weapon, it looks more like a decoration. It is an actual weapon, though.
Nameless Knife
A tanto knife in a wooden scabbard. It is so plain that it's almost out of place.
A sword that is shaped like fire. Rather than an actual weapon, it looks more like a decoration. It is an actual weapon, though.
Dear Praetor,
Can you hear me? It has been ### after you've won. It is lonely without you. Why did you have to leave me, after I have found the thing that I want the most? Was my passion to you not enough? Was that it?
Please come back.
???
???
???
Can you hear me? It has been ### after you've won. It is lonely without you. Why did you have to leave me, after I have found the thing that I want the most? Was my passion to you not enough? Was that it?
Please come back.
???
???
???
Nameless Knife
A tanto knife in a wooden scabbard. It is so plain that it's almost out of place.
Evening comes before I realize it, and school is over for the day. All in all, it's an average day. Shinji Matou occupied the eyes of the girls as always the rest of the afternoon, and Ti - Taiga was late to class, and tripped on flat surface — landing painfully that the thud is audible. She recovers rather quickly. Truly, that Tige - Taiga has the constitution of a monster.
…
Hmm. I feel like I'm forgetting something important… Huh? The Chief Editor wants to talk to me? Wait, I'm in the Newspapers Club? Ah, nevermind. I'll go to her right away.
Evening comes before I realize it, and school is over for the day. All in all, it's an average day. Shinji Matou occupied the eyes of the girls as always the rest of the afternoon, and Ti - Taiga was late to class, and tripped on flat surface — landing painfully that the thud is audible. She recovers rather quickly. Truly, that Tige - Taiga has the constitution of a monster.
…
… Why do I feel like I've done this before? I… Am I forgetting something important — oh yeah, the Chief Editor wanted to know about the School's Seven Wonders, right? Heh, in the end, it was all because of T-Taiga, even if I don't quite get how. Oh well.
Something new happened today. There was a new transfer student. Handsome, smart, charismatic, and immediately popular post-introduction. In a light novel, he would definitely be the Main Protagonist, though I can't really bring myself to feel jealous. Shinji's right about one thing, at least. His name is ******** ******** ******. Bit mouthy, huh? But he's a foreigner, so I guess that's normal. Still, even if Shinji becomes a little bit more annoying than usual, today feels kinda exciting. Fun, really.
…
Hmm, I feel like I'm forgetting something important…
…
…
Huh?
…
My... name?
The cold seeps into my marrows. It is then that I realize I'm dying. Ah. Haha. Ahahaha. I feel like crying. There's - there's a knife jutting out of my guts. It feels so, so cold. So numb. I guess, in a way, I expected this to happen. Of course, someone like me wouldn't be able to survive this. I'm not - I'm not some kind of protagonist who could survive from something like this...
But… still… it's a bit cruel, isn't it? I can't - I don't… even... my… name…
Please… someone… remember...
…
Hmm. I feel like I'm forgetting something important… Huh? The Chief Editor wants to talk to me? Wait, I'm in the Newspapers Club? Ah, nevermind. I'll go to her right away.
Evening comes before I realize it, and school is over for the day. All in all, it's an average day. Shinji Matou occupied the eyes of the girls as always the rest of the afternoon, and Ti - Taiga was late to class, and tripped on flat surface — landing painfully that the thud is audible. She recovers rather quickly. Truly, that Tige - Taiga has the constitution of a monster.
…
… Why do I feel like I've done this before? I… Am I forgetting something important — oh yeah, the Chief Editor wanted to know about the School's Seven Wonders, right? Heh, in the end, it was all because of T-Taiga, even if I don't quite get how. Oh well.
Something new happened today. There was a new transfer student. Handsome, smart, charismatic, and immediately popular post-introduction. In a light novel, he would definitely be the Main Protagonist, though I can't really bring myself to feel jealous. Shinji's right about one thing, at least. His name is ******** ******** ******. Bit mouthy, huh? But he's a foreigner, so I guess that's normal. Still, even if Shinji becomes a little bit more annoying than usual, today feels kinda exciting. Fun, really.
…
Hmm, I feel like I'm forgetting something important…
…
…
Huh?
…
My... name?
The cold seeps into my marrows. It is then that I realize I'm dying. Ah. Haha. Ahahaha. I feel like crying. There's - there's a knife jutting out of my guts. It feels so, so cold. So numb. I guess, in a way, I expected this to happen. Of course, someone like me wouldn't be able to survive this. I'm not - I'm not some kind of protagonist who could survive from something like this...
But… still… it's a bit cruel, isn't it? I can't - I don't… even... my… name…
Please… someone… remember...
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Update II
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[] Approach Saber. The blonde-haired android is apparently the strongest warrior in the Camp? Nevertheless, she seems to be just standing there for the moment, and since Anemone implied that she's almost always busy...
You two decide to approach Saber first. Anemone has told you that she's normally too busy to do anything than fight, and since she's currently not fighting, it seems prudent to ask her right now. Although, you would not lie being slightly curious by Anemone calling Saber as the best warrior in the camp. It sparks a certain sensation of rivalry, a wandering thought that goes: how does she compare to my 5B? It's a strangely possessive thought, but by the way 5B seems to stare at Saber, you don't think you're not alone.
... Though you can't be really sure anymore at this point. The spike is still there in your heart; making it difficult to breathe, like something heavy is pinning down on your chest. You've hurt 5B, and this time, you don't have the excuse of blaming your defect because it's your own words that caused it - because you thought that it would have cheered her up, and the suddenly crumbling expectation is too painful it makes you scared. Failure, you identify it. You don't like it at all.
"Excuse me," 5B starts. "You are Saber, right?"
Indeed she is. Or at least, you're pretty sure she is. You have to admit, when Anemone mentioned that Saber is the strongest warrior in camp, you expected... you don't know. Definitely not this. You blink, making sure that you're not seeing things. You're not. Without a doubt, Saber's Model is very similar to 5B, down to her blonde hair, and green eyes. Her lack of chest, the messiness of her pony-tail, the perpetual scowl on her face, and her red (where does she get them you have to know) sportswear are the few things that make them look different. Enough similarities to be eerie, but also enough differences to tell the two apart.
"Yeah," Saber responses, looking all over the two of you. She clicks her tongue. If she sees the resemblance in 5B, she doesn't show it. "Who the hell are you?"
And neither does 5B, if she sees it. She frowns instead, crossing her arms over her chest. "Rude. We are YoRHa Units. I am 5B, and she is my Partner, 3H."
Saber snorts, the corner of her lips ticking upwards into a sneer. "You and your YoRHa stupid names," she scoffs. Green eyes trace over you. "You two don't even look much. Do you even know how to fight?"
Ahhh. Maybe it's because you're seeing it from the 'outside', but there's a certain form of irony when what Saber insinuated is directed to someone with a similar model as her. Which is something you should probably look into. It's not unusual for Androids to have similar Models, and maybe that's why others aren't batting an eye; it's almost impossible for you to tell the Operators apart, but that only applies when they're from the same group. YoRHa with YoRHa, and the Resistance with the Resistance. For the similarity to cross bridge?
Or maybe you're just making too big a deal of things. You have a defective memory, so what do you know?
5B lets out a deep sigh, and you stare at her blankly. Half-lidded eyes. Almost emotionless if not for the cold rage in them. Imperious. "Is that the only thing you have inside your head? Fighting?" she shakes her head. "No wonder that woman believed you're the best warrior in this camp. Quite the tragedy. The fact that you're even self-aware is amazing - no, the fact that you're not running, and fucking around like a beast is a miracle."
Saber's glare intensifies. "... You..." she seethes. "You fucking YoRHa machines come to me, and mock me, and when I ask a damn question..." she takes a deep breath, her body hunching. "Are you fucking with me?"
You snap back in alarm. Things are escalating too fast. You turn to 5B, and open - the spike goes deeper. You immediately turn to Saber. "No, I don't," you answer. She twitches; turns to you. "I'm not built for combat. But 5B is," you add.
5B spares one eye on you in worry, and concern, while the other at Saber in warning. After a moment, she steps closer to you. You could understand. But you know what you're doing. You think. You hope. You don't know.
Saber clicks her tongue, and stands straighter. She's looking down on the both of you; some sort of a deep resentment, but not deep enough to make her throw the first punch. "... Is that so fucking hard, huh? Now, what the hell do you want from me?"
5B glances at you again. You give her a smiling nod. She does not look happy. The spike pierces deeper. You'll have to apologize. "We're sent here to help around. Anemone mentions that you maybe need something?"
She stares at you for a second, and then there's a bark of a cackle. 5B's right hand tenses. "Hah! So you're basically running errands for us, huh? Fantastic," she shakes her head, her laugh trailing off, before she tilts her head thoughtfully. "Hmm," she hums. "Maybe there's something you can help me with. Hell if I know you YoRHas could even do it, but no skin off my nose either way: go hunt me a White Boar."
You blink. "... White Boar?"
Beside you, 5B tilts her head. A hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Where can we find it?"
A snort. "Hell if I know. Last I heard, they're in the forest near the Amusement Park," Saber smirks. "But just bring me the head."
"Can I ask why you need it?" you ask.
Saber scowls at you. "It's none of your business. You can do at least this, can't you?" she glances up at the sky, before clicking her tongue. "I need to go."
And without preamble, Saber steps past the two of you. You watch her go to the path out of the camp until she takes a turn left, and the ruined tower blocks her appearance. Moments pass. That could have gone worse. You turn back to 5B.
"I'm -"
"I'm -"
The two of you stop, and stare at each other. 5B fidgets uncomfortably, and you realize that your throat is too tight for you to even speak. The spike twists; tearing it from the inside. Your head hurts, and you force yourself to breathe. 5B nods meekly to you. It's painful, seeing her like this; meek, and scared; a contrast to her usual behavior. It's worse because you know you're the cause of it. If you're not here, she would be fine. She wouldn't be scared.
You take another breath. "I'm sorry," you say, and that's the easiest part. The hardest part is the next because you don't know what to say. You could have tried cheering her up; teasing her, but the last time you did so, it did not go the way you wanted it to be. "... I interrupted you," you finish, lamely.
Her eyes widen, and 5B shakes her head immediately. "No, it's fine," she breathes out. "You don't need to apologize, 3H. If it's you, I don't mind, and I just lost my temper again, so it should be me who should -"
You shake your head softly. You don't want to hear it. She doesn't have to say it because she doesn't need to say it because she shouldn't be saying it because that would be another failure. You smile, perking yourself up. "You said that we have never explored this place, right? Since Saber's request was vague, and there doesn't seem to be an exact time limit, maybe we could..." you trail off, smiling impishly.
5B's eyes widen, and a grin threatens out of her bright smile, the previous mood forgotten. At least you could do this much. "That's..." she breathes out. "That's too sly of you, 3H, but I can't disagree! Indeed, we have never had the chance to enjoy this place, and this would be," there's a brief hitch, "We could make new memories together!"
Ah.
You're an idiot.
You should just shred your voice box to pieces.
"Well," you say, consulting to your map. "Where should we hunt this elusive White Boar, 5B?"
[] "I hear that humans used to bring their loved ones to an amusement park once in a year!"
[] "There is a forest nearby. The Bunker is always so dull... maybe a change of scenery would be nice."
[] "This city... now it's infested with Machine Lifeforms, but in the past... I think it would be nice to simply wander."
During your walk towards your destination, or in that destination, there is quiet. Two of you do not talk, and 5B is either too aware, or too unaware. Nevertheless... Maybe you should try to fill in the silence?
[] No. You don't know what to say. You don't know how to say it. You'll just screw it up again, and you don't want to screw it up. Just keep your jaws shut as long as possible. Don't speak. You're a defect. You just don't want to hurt 5B with your words anymore.
[] ... You're the Healer type, and in the end, this is the only thing you're good for: support 5B. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. You are aware that you're a defect, that you're more prone hurting 5B than actually helping her, but you can't go against what you're built for. That's your excuse.
- [] Ask about her.
- [] Ask about yourself.
- [] Ask about the two of you.
- [] Write-in
You two decide to approach Saber first. Anemone has told you that she's normally too busy to do anything than fight, and since she's currently not fighting, it seems prudent to ask her right now. Although, you would not lie being slightly curious by Anemone calling Saber as the best warrior in the camp. It sparks a certain sensation of rivalry, a wandering thought that goes: how does she compare to my 5B? It's a strangely possessive thought, but by the way 5B seems to stare at Saber, you don't think you're not alone.
... Though you can't be really sure anymore at this point. The spike is still there in your heart; making it difficult to breathe, like something heavy is pinning down on your chest. You've hurt 5B, and this time, you don't have the excuse of blaming your defect because it's your own words that caused it - because you thought that it would have cheered her up, and the suddenly crumbling expectation is too painful it makes you scared. Failure, you identify it. You don't like it at all.
"Excuse me," 5B starts. "You are Saber, right?"
Indeed she is. Or at least, you're pretty sure she is. You have to admit, when Anemone mentioned that Saber is the strongest warrior in camp, you expected... you don't know. Definitely not this. You blink, making sure that you're not seeing things. You're not. Without a doubt, Saber's Model is very similar to 5B, down to her blonde hair, and green eyes. Her lack of chest, the messiness of her pony-tail, the perpetual scowl on her face, and her red (where does she get them you have to know) sportswear are the few things that make them look different. Enough similarities to be eerie, but also enough differences to tell the two apart.
"Yeah," Saber responses, looking all over the two of you. She clicks her tongue. If she sees the resemblance in 5B, she doesn't show it. "Who the hell are you?"
And neither does 5B, if she sees it. She frowns instead, crossing her arms over her chest. "Rude. We are YoRHa Units. I am 5B, and she is my Partner, 3H."
Saber snorts, the corner of her lips ticking upwards into a sneer. "You and your YoRHa stupid names," she scoffs. Green eyes trace over you. "You two don't even look much. Do you even know how to fight?"
Ahhh. Maybe it's because you're seeing it from the 'outside', but there's a certain form of irony when what Saber insinuated is directed to someone with a similar model as her. Which is something you should probably look into. It's not unusual for Androids to have similar Models, and maybe that's why others aren't batting an eye; it's almost impossible for you to tell the Operators apart, but that only applies when they're from the same group. YoRHa with YoRHa, and the Resistance with the Resistance. For the similarity to cross bridge?
Or maybe you're just making too big a deal of things. You have a defective memory, so what do you know?
5B lets out a deep sigh, and you stare at her blankly. Half-lidded eyes. Almost emotionless if not for the cold rage in them. Imperious. "Is that the only thing you have inside your head? Fighting?" she shakes her head. "No wonder that woman believed you're the best warrior in this camp. Quite the tragedy. The fact that you're even self-aware is amazing - no, the fact that you're not running, and fucking around like a beast is a miracle."
Saber's glare intensifies. "... You..." she seethes. "You fucking YoRHa machines come to me, and mock me, and when I ask a damn question..." she takes a deep breath, her body hunching. "Are you fucking with me?"
You snap back in alarm. Things are escalating too fast. You turn to 5B, and open - the spike goes deeper. You immediately turn to Saber. "No, I don't," you answer. She twitches; turns to you. "I'm not built for combat. But 5B is," you add.
5B spares one eye on you in worry, and concern, while the other at Saber in warning. After a moment, she steps closer to you. You could understand. But you know what you're doing. You think. You hope. You don't know.
Saber clicks her tongue, and stands straighter. She's looking down on the both of you; some sort of a deep resentment, but not deep enough to make her throw the first punch. "... Is that so fucking hard, huh? Now, what the hell do you want from me?"
5B glances at you again. You give her a smiling nod. She does not look happy. The spike pierces deeper. You'll have to apologize. "We're sent here to help around. Anemone mentions that you maybe need something?"
She stares at you for a second, and then there's a bark of a cackle. 5B's right hand tenses. "Hah! So you're basically running errands for us, huh? Fantastic," she shakes her head, her laugh trailing off, before she tilts her head thoughtfully. "Hmm," she hums. "Maybe there's something you can help me with. Hell if I know you YoRHas could even do it, but no skin off my nose either way: go hunt me a White Boar."
You blink. "... White Boar?"
Beside you, 5B tilts her head. A hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Where can we find it?"
A snort. "Hell if I know. Last I heard, they're in the forest near the Amusement Park," Saber smirks. "But just bring me the head."
"Can I ask why you need it?" you ask.
Saber scowls at you. "It's none of your business. You can do at least this, can't you?" she glances up at the sky, before clicking her tongue. "I need to go."
And without preamble, Saber steps past the two of you. You watch her go to the path out of the camp until she takes a turn left, and the ruined tower blocks her appearance. Moments pass. That could have gone worse. You turn back to 5B.
"I'm -"
"I'm -"
The two of you stop, and stare at each other. 5B fidgets uncomfortably, and you realize that your throat is too tight for you to even speak. The spike twists; tearing it from the inside. Your head hurts, and you force yourself to breathe. 5B nods meekly to you. It's painful, seeing her like this; meek, and scared; a contrast to her usual behavior. It's worse because you know you're the cause of it. If you're not here, she would be fine. She wouldn't be scared.
You take another breath. "I'm sorry," you say, and that's the easiest part. The hardest part is the next because you don't know what to say. You could have tried cheering her up; teasing her, but the last time you did so, it did not go the way you wanted it to be. "... I interrupted you," you finish, lamely.
Her eyes widen, and 5B shakes her head immediately. "No, it's fine," she breathes out. "You don't need to apologize, 3H. If it's you, I don't mind, and I just lost my temper again, so it should be me who should -"
You shake your head softly. You don't want to hear it. She doesn't have to say it because she doesn't need to say it because she shouldn't be saying it because that would be another failure. You smile, perking yourself up. "You said that we have never explored this place, right? Since Saber's request was vague, and there doesn't seem to be an exact time limit, maybe we could..." you trail off, smiling impishly.
5B's eyes widen, and a grin threatens out of her bright smile, the previous mood forgotten. At least you could do this much. "That's..." she breathes out. "That's too sly of you, 3H, but I can't disagree! Indeed, we have never had the chance to enjoy this place, and this would be," there's a brief hitch, "We could make new memories together!"
Ah.
You're an idiot.
You should just shred your voice box to pieces.
"Well," you say, consulting to your map. "Where should we hunt this elusive White Boar, 5B?"
[] "I hear that humans used to bring their loved ones to an amusement park once in a year!"
[] "There is a forest nearby. The Bunker is always so dull... maybe a change of scenery would be nice."
[] "This city... now it's infested with Machine Lifeforms, but in the past... I think it would be nice to simply wander."
During your walk towards your destination, or in that destination, there is quiet. Two of you do not talk, and 5B is either too aware, or too unaware. Nevertheless... Maybe you should try to fill in the silence?
[] No. You don't know what to say. You don't know how to say it. You'll just screw it up again, and you don't want to screw it up. Just keep your jaws shut as long as possible. Don't speak. You're a defect. You just don't want to hurt 5B with your words anymore.
[] ... You're the Healer type, and in the end, this is the only thing you're good for: support 5B. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. You are aware that you're a defect, that you're more prone hurting 5B than actually helping her, but you can't go against what you're built for. That's your excuse.
- [] Ask about her.
- [] Ask about yourself.
- [] Ask about the two of you.
- [] Write-in
Last edited:
Update III
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[] ... You're the Healer type, and in the end, this is the only thing you're good for: support 5B. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. You are aware that you're a defect, that you're more prone hurting 5B than actually helping her, but you can't go against what you're built for. That's your excuse.
-[] 5B seemed to enjoy your conversation about how you'd think she'd look better in red earlier, maybe try and restart it. At the very least you can try and figure out where you could find some red cloth.
[] "There is a forest nearby. The Bunker is always so dull... maybe a change of scenery would be nice."
This place is old. You can almost feel it in your 'soul'. Older than you, and older than 5B, and older than even the androids or the machines themselves. Older than imagination. Ancient. Historic. Monumental. In a way, it is a testament of Mankind's ingenuity, of what they could do, and did do; how after millennia have passed since they evacuated to the moon, their footsteps are still here. Aged, perhaps, but not gone.
And then there's the Machine Lifeforms. It's the first time you've seen them in real life; or at least, it is for the you that woke up hours ago. Beings made by the Aliens as weapons against Mankind. Your enemy. Short, clunky things that move with halting gait; coat rusted with red, head round as a ball, and their body almost as thick as a tree trunk. Awkward. Passive. Without purpose. Without meaning. It's almost pitiful. For the most part, they don't seem to know that you're even there, and when they do, they don't seem to recognize you.
If Androids are built based on humans, then these Machines are based on something else. Maybe the Aliens. Maybe something else. Nevertheless, they are weak. You're sure that 5B could destroy dozens, or hundreds of them without even breaking a sweat. But that only applies in small-scale. What these Machines lack in quality, they more than make up for it with quantity. Cut one, and two will sprout. Cut two, and four more will come. So on, and so goes. Though thankfully the same rule doesn't apply to Goliath-classes - or at least, not at the same rate.
... And you're stalling. You know you're stalling. Silently, you glance over to your side. 5B hums a toneless tune, green eyes drinking in the view. You could keep quiet. You should probably keep quiet. But you know you can't keep at it. Sooner or later, 5B will turn to you, and you will be faced with either option to keep your distance - and hurt her, or reciprocate, and hurt her as well because of your defect.
Your defect.
It all comes down to that, huh? Your defect. You feel resignation; feel ugly acceptance at the inevitability. One day, you're going to forget that all of this has ever happened, and one day, you'll come to this same realization, and one day, it will all repeat again. Again, and again, and again. Meaningless. It gnaws on you, that cruel despair. Once again, you wonder what cruel god ever bothered with your existence -
You breathe out. No. You cut that line of thought. Nonono. You can't keep thinking like this - you can't just break down in front of 5B due to some existential crisis. You'll hurt her. And you suppose that's what all that matters. Not your defect. Not your existence. You're 3H, and as a Type Healer, it's your purpose to support your partner: to support 5B, emotionally, mentally, or physically. And keeping silent - keeping yourself distant, that'll definitely hurt her, and...
That's the excuse you're going for: because you're built to.
You let out another breath. You need... a topic. Something light. Something harmless. Something easy. Something that's not going to touch about anything that has ever happened before you are... you. She would look better in red. The thought comes to you suddenly, and you smile. Anemone did cut off that conversation, didn't she? And for once, it's... yours.
"Hey 5B," you start out. Green eyes turn to you, lips curving upwards. For a moment, you hesitate. Only for a moment. "You'd look good in red."
"Umumu?" she tilts her head, before perking up. "Naturally! And you haven't told me yet, 3H," she pouts at you. "What were you thinking about, back then?"
"Hmm..." you hum, scanning her dress. Not answering. And then you nod.
5B pouts harder, delight in her eyes. "3H!"
Your smile becomes impish. "It's a secret, but if you really want to know..."
She hums thoughtfully at that, hand under her chin. And then she nods. "Alright. Tell me, 3H."
"We YoRHa Units don't have a strict uniform code, I don't think," you shake your head. "So I'm trying to see how you would look -"
5B interrupts you with a gasp. "You are correct! Umumu..." she mumbles, ducking her head. "This means I could actually tailor myself a new dress. Not to say that this dress is bad, but it is too gray. It needs color. Red, and gold, and maybe..." she shakes her head, smiling like a puppy as she turns to you. "What do you think... 3H, what's wrong?"
Ah. She must have noticed. You chuckle sheepishly. "No, it's fine."
5B frowns. "No, you're not. Tell me, 3H," she steps right in front of you, hands resting over your shoulders. "Something's bothering you lately, and..." she sighs, smiling. "You're my partner, and I you. You can be honest to me."
"W-well," that, perhaps, stabs deeper than it's meant to be. You can't simply say what has been on your mind in the past half-hour or so. "I was hoping that I could make you a dress," you smile. "But if you want to make your own -"
"No!" you blink, flinching at the ferocity of the reply. 5B grimaces. "I'm sorry, 3H... but I would prefer something made by your hands," she grins.
"But it won't be perfect," you say, quietly. "I'm sure you could make it better, 5B."
"That's not the point, 3H," she shakes her head. "I would rather have something made by you, 3H. It doesn't have to be a gift, but..." she smiles at you. Sad. Happy. Both. "Anything by you will always be better than anything by me. It's..." she brushes your cheek. "Something for me to remember you."
Ah.
She knows. Stupid, stupid. Of course she knows. She has been hurting - is hurting more than you. For her, this has happened over, and over, and over. And you would forget. Over, and over, and over.
You smile, try to make it look natural. Try not to clench your hands. "Alright then. I promise."
Strangely, there is a lack of Machine Lifeforms in here. You would have expected there to be more, but it's... quiet. Peaceful. Chirps of birds perched on trees. An air that is quite different from the ruined city; a different sort of 'cleanness'. You breathe in, and out. Beside you, 5B is humming a toneless tune. It confuses you greatly at first, but you realize that it's just 5B being 5B, so you don't mind it too much.
This is nice, you decide. Or at least, you decide that it is nice after you've successfully took control of your body heat. You don't know what got into you there. It's not exactly a bad sensation, but... you're not sure. It makes you happy, certainly, and objectively speaking, you know that such a reaction from people means that they're happy. But for it to feel this way...
Naturally, you should make 5B feel this way more often -
5B takes your hand in hers. You let out a noise between confusion, and a squeak. She smiles at you. "I believe this is how Humans would share their affection in this situation," she explains.
"I guess that makes sense," you nod. Humans do share a lot of their affection through various contacts. Though it's certainly not bad. Something that defines their closeness, huh?
You remain like that for a long time. Just walking, and enjoying the forest's view. At this point, you may as well have forgotten Saber's request; it's just an excuse for you to go here, by now.
Naturally, that's when you actually encounter your target.
"Stop," 5B whispers to you, and you nearly stumble. Only 5B's steel grip keeps you from falling. After a moment, she releases your hand. "I think I see our target."
You blink, looking around. "Where?"
"There," she says, gesturing into the foliage of trees. It takes time, but now that you know where to look, you eventually see it. "You should take a step back," 5B explains, and you belatedly realize the seriousness beneath her tone. She takes a step forward, acting as your shield. "Boars are very tough. That's a fact. You should keep a distance... hm?" green eyes squint. "It's limping."
She turns to you.
You blink. "... What?"
Her lips twitch into an excited smile. "This would be very easy. I could kill it immediately, but if it's limping, then we could take our time - or maybe we could follow it. Maybe it'll lead us somewhere? Or rather, it'll lead us somewhere. There's..." she frowns, humming quietly. "Hm. Purpose? Something like it."
... That sounds very cruel.
[] Strike it now.
[] Follow it.
-[] 5B seemed to enjoy your conversation about how you'd think she'd look better in red earlier, maybe try and restart it. At the very least you can try and figure out where you could find some red cloth.
[] "There is a forest nearby. The Bunker is always so dull... maybe a change of scenery would be nice."
[Blank Storage]
There is an undeniable charm wandering through the ruined city. Of crumbling concretes, and cracked pathways. Metal signs with its words scrubbed by time, either lying off on the ground, or hanging barely on red-crusted poles. And from these holes, and nook, and crannies, nature creeps in; worming vines, and roots, and woods - curving, and entangling around where time has most taken its toll like a snake; breathing in new life into the place. Leaves scattering in the wind, and animals grazing upon the ground.
This place is old. You can almost feel it in your 'soul'. Older than you, and older than 5B, and older than even the androids or the machines themselves. Older than imagination. Ancient. Historic. Monumental. In a way, it is a testament of Mankind's ingenuity, of what they could do, and did do; how after millennia have passed since they evacuated to the moon, their footsteps are still here. Aged, perhaps, but not gone.
And then there's the Machine Lifeforms. It's the first time you've seen them in real life; or at least, it is for the you that woke up hours ago. Beings made by the Aliens as weapons against Mankind. Your enemy. Short, clunky things that move with halting gait; coat rusted with red, head round as a ball, and their body almost as thick as a tree trunk. Awkward. Passive. Without purpose. Without meaning. It's almost pitiful. For the most part, they don't seem to know that you're even there, and when they do, they don't seem to recognize you.
If Androids are built based on humans, then these Machines are based on something else. Maybe the Aliens. Maybe something else. Nevertheless, they are weak. You're sure that 5B could destroy dozens, or hundreds of them without even breaking a sweat. But that only applies in small-scale. What these Machines lack in quality, they more than make up for it with quantity. Cut one, and two will sprout. Cut two, and four more will come. So on, and so goes. Though thankfully the same rule doesn't apply to Goliath-classes - or at least, not at the same rate.
... And you're stalling. You know you're stalling. Silently, you glance over to your side. 5B hums a toneless tune, green eyes drinking in the view. You could keep quiet. You should probably keep quiet. But you know you can't keep at it. Sooner or later, 5B will turn to you, and you will be faced with either option to keep your distance - and hurt her, or reciprocate, and hurt her as well because of your defect.
Your defect.
It all comes down to that, huh? Your defect. You feel resignation; feel ugly acceptance at the inevitability. One day, you're going to forget that all of this has ever happened, and one day, you'll come to this same realization, and one day, it will all repeat again. Again, and again, and again. Meaningless. It gnaws on you, that cruel despair. Once again, you wonder what cruel god ever bothered with your existence -
You breathe out. No. You cut that line of thought. Nonono. You can't keep thinking like this - you can't just break down in front of 5B due to some existential crisis. You'll hurt her. And you suppose that's what all that matters. Not your defect. Not your existence. You're 3H, and as a Type Healer, it's your purpose to support your partner: to support 5B, emotionally, mentally, or physically. And keeping silent - keeping yourself distant, that'll definitely hurt her, and...
That's the excuse you're going for: because you're built to.
You let out another breath. You need... a topic. Something light. Something harmless. Something easy. Something that's not going to touch about anything that has ever happened before you are... you. She would look better in red. The thought comes to you suddenly, and you smile. Anemone did cut off that conversation, didn't she? And for once, it's... yours.
"Hey 5B," you start out. Green eyes turn to you, lips curving upwards. For a moment, you hesitate. Only for a moment. "You'd look good in red."
"Umumu?" she tilts her head, before perking up. "Naturally! And you haven't told me yet, 3H," she pouts at you. "What were you thinking about, back then?"
"Hmm..." you hum, scanning her dress. Not answering. And then you nod.
5B pouts harder, delight in her eyes. "3H!"
Your smile becomes impish. "It's a secret, but if you really want to know..."
She hums thoughtfully at that, hand under her chin. And then she nods. "Alright. Tell me, 3H."
"We YoRHa Units don't have a strict uniform code, I don't think," you shake your head. "So I'm trying to see how you would look -"
5B interrupts you with a gasp. "You are correct! Umumu..." she mumbles, ducking her head. "This means I could actually tailor myself a new dress. Not to say that this dress is bad, but it is too gray. It needs color. Red, and gold, and maybe..." she shakes her head, smiling like a puppy as she turns to you. "What do you think... 3H, what's wrong?"
Ah. She must have noticed. You chuckle sheepishly. "No, it's fine."
5B frowns. "No, you're not. Tell me, 3H," she steps right in front of you, hands resting over your shoulders. "Something's bothering you lately, and..." she sighs, smiling. "You're my partner, and I you. You can be honest to me."
"W-well," that, perhaps, stabs deeper than it's meant to be. You can't simply say what has been on your mind in the past half-hour or so. "I was hoping that I could make you a dress," you smile. "But if you want to make your own -"
"No!" you blink, flinching at the ferocity of the reply. 5B grimaces. "I'm sorry, 3H... but I would prefer something made by your hands," she grins.
"But it won't be perfect," you say, quietly. "I'm sure you could make it better, 5B."
"That's not the point, 3H," she shakes her head. "I would rather have something made by you, 3H. It doesn't have to be a gift, but..." she smiles at you. Sad. Happy. Both. "Anything by you will always be better than anything by me. It's..." she brushes your cheek. "Something for me to remember you."
Ah.
She knows. Stupid, stupid. Of course she knows. She has been hurting - is hurting more than you. For her, this has happened over, and over, and over. And you would forget. Over, and over, and over.
You smile, try to make it look natural. Try not to clench your hands. "Alright then. I promise."
[Blank Storage]
"I think this used to be a shopping mall," you say, after a moment of digesting the new information. It's one of those things again; similar to how you still remembered your Type, and duty after 5B's re-introduction in the Bunker. You marvel at the surrounding. Nature has nearly taken over its entirely; overgrown by trees, and coiled by vines and brambles. There's a pair of what used to be elevators, now broken; the path leading upstairs broken by fallen rooftop.
5B makes a noise of interest. "Shopping mall? Like a market?"
"Something like that," you nod, smiling. "It's like one giant store center separated by several stores. It used to be that you could buy almost everything in here."
"Everything?" 5B looks up, curious green eyes scanning through the second floor. "Even clothes, and jewelry?"
"And more," you add. "Food, and entertainment, and even things from the other side of the world."
5B exhales from her nose, nodding with a satisfied smile on her face.
You frown. "What is it?"
"It is nothing. I am simply saving this in my memory. One day, this will all be over, and..." she turns to you, lips smiling softly. "We will be able to come here, and enjoy various leisure together. Maybe," she chuckles. "I'll make one for ourselves."
"Ah," you intone. That sounds like something 5B would do. But you wonder when that time will come. You wonder if... one day, you'll wake up, and realize that everything is over. You wish for that to never come. Not to you. Not to the you that will come. "That would be nice. I guess at that point, you won't be wearing my dress, huh?" you smirk impishly.
"Wha -" 5B sputters, her cheeks pink. "3H, I would never! When you've sewn me that dress, I'll treasure it! I'll wear it everyday, and even if I find something made of diamonds, and gold, and the finest fabrics - yours will still be objectively the best!"
She's serious. Of course she's serious. Is it just you, or is it very hot in here? "Oh," you place your hands over your face. "That would also be very nice."
"Umumu?" there's a curious tone under her mumble. "Umumumumu?" and then there's that hint of suspect joy, and the beginning of amusement. Oh no, this is dangerous - 5B is starting to learn the enjoyment of - "3H," she exclaims. "Are you -"
"We should probably be going, and hunt that White Boar," you say quickly, moving towards the big hole off to the side. That way leads into the forest proper. Well, there's another way, but this here is the safest, according to the map.
"3H, wait!" 5B calls out, hurrying up to your side. There's an unfairly bright smile on her face. "I just said something that made you blush, didn't I? Umumu. And what is this happiness I am feeling?"
Oh no.
5B makes a noise of interest. "Shopping mall? Like a market?"
"Something like that," you nod, smiling. "It's like one giant store center separated by several stores. It used to be that you could buy almost everything in here."
"Everything?" 5B looks up, curious green eyes scanning through the second floor. "Even clothes, and jewelry?"
"And more," you add. "Food, and entertainment, and even things from the other side of the world."
5B exhales from her nose, nodding with a satisfied smile on her face.
You frown. "What is it?"
"It is nothing. I am simply saving this in my memory. One day, this will all be over, and..." she turns to you, lips smiling softly. "We will be able to come here, and enjoy various leisure together. Maybe," she chuckles. "I'll make one for ourselves."
"Ah," you intone. That sounds like something 5B would do. But you wonder when that time will come. You wonder if... one day, you'll wake up, and realize that everything is over. You wish for that to never come. Not to you. Not to the you that will come. "That would be nice. I guess at that point, you won't be wearing my dress, huh?" you smirk impishly.
"Wha -" 5B sputters, her cheeks pink. "3H, I would never! When you've sewn me that dress, I'll treasure it! I'll wear it everyday, and even if I find something made of diamonds, and gold, and the finest fabrics - yours will still be objectively the best!"
She's serious. Of course she's serious. Is it just you, or is it very hot in here? "Oh," you place your hands over your face. "That would also be very nice."
"Umumu?" there's a curious tone under her mumble. "Umumumumu?" and then there's that hint of suspect joy, and the beginning of amusement. Oh no, this is dangerous - 5B is starting to learn the enjoyment of - "3H," she exclaims. "Are you -"
"We should probably be going, and hunt that White Boar," you say quickly, moving towards the big hole off to the side. That way leads into the forest proper. Well, there's another way, but this here is the safest, according to the map.
"3H, wait!" 5B calls out, hurrying up to your side. There's an unfairly bright smile on her face. "I just said something that made you blush, didn't I? Umumu. And what is this happiness I am feeling?"
Oh no.
[Blank Storage]
Strangely, there is a lack of Machine Lifeforms in here. You would have expected there to be more, but it's... quiet. Peaceful. Chirps of birds perched on trees. An air that is quite different from the ruined city; a different sort of 'cleanness'. You breathe in, and out. Beside you, 5B is humming a toneless tune. It confuses you greatly at first, but you realize that it's just 5B being 5B, so you don't mind it too much.
This is nice, you decide. Or at least, you decide that it is nice after you've successfully took control of your body heat. You don't know what got into you there. It's not exactly a bad sensation, but... you're not sure. It makes you happy, certainly, and objectively speaking, you know that such a reaction from people means that they're happy. But for it to feel this way...
Naturally, you should make 5B feel this way more often -
5B takes your hand in hers. You let out a noise between confusion, and a squeak. She smiles at you. "I believe this is how Humans would share their affection in this situation," she explains.
"I guess that makes sense," you nod. Humans do share a lot of their affection through various contacts. Though it's certainly not bad. Something that defines their closeness, huh?
You remain like that for a long time. Just walking, and enjoying the forest's view. At this point, you may as well have forgotten Saber's request; it's just an excuse for you to go here, by now.
Naturally, that's when you actually encounter your target.
"Stop," 5B whispers to you, and you nearly stumble. Only 5B's steel grip keeps you from falling. After a moment, she releases your hand. "I think I see our target."
You blink, looking around. "Where?"
"There," she says, gesturing into the foliage of trees. It takes time, but now that you know where to look, you eventually see it. "You should take a step back," 5B explains, and you belatedly realize the seriousness beneath her tone. She takes a step forward, acting as your shield. "Boars are very tough. That's a fact. You should keep a distance... hm?" green eyes squint. "It's limping."
She turns to you.
You blink. "... What?"
Her lips twitch into an excited smile. "This would be very easy. I could kill it immediately, but if it's limping, then we could take our time - or maybe we could follow it. Maybe it'll lead us somewhere? Or rather, it'll lead us somewhere. There's..." she frowns, humming quietly. "Hm. Purpose? Something like it."
... That sounds very cruel.
[] Strike it now.
[] Follow it.
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Update IV
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[] Follow it.
...
You have to admit that there is some part of you that is morbidly curious. Boars are said to be very tough, and though they're not as dexterous as other animals, that does not make them any less speedy. So to see one being wounded to the point of limping? Maybe it's because of your Type, but you can't help but find it intriguing. At the very least, you could identify its wounds, and see where it's going before 5B could give it mercy.
You nod, decision made. "Let's follow it."
"Alright," 5B flashes you a quick smile, before nodding, smoothing her expression. "Keep behind me, 3H. I don't want you getting hurt," there is a soft sound; a melodious tinkle, like the clink of glass against glass. Light flickers in her hand, and where previously there was nothing, there's now a red-as-blood, and black-as-night sword; the colors forming lines down to its tip. It is a strange looking sword. Jagged, and curved, and fluid like flame turned blade - as though it is created by a master-smith who has bare-bones understanding of a sword, and rather than made for battle, it was made as an ornament. Yet, despite that, you also know that it is more than capable of doing its job. On 5B, you spot a graceful expression; like an elegant, and beautiful actress stepping into the theater stage.
This kind of 5B is not bad at all, you muse, and idly, you wonder how many of her expressions you could collect before you forget everything. You shake that away. Better not to dwell in it. At least, not now. "I'll be careful," you assure 5B, and her lips twitch gratefully. As a Healer Type, you're really not built for combat. You don't even know how to fight. But because of that, you're programmed to know how to be as unnoticeable, and as helpful as possible during combat.
... If push comes to shove, there is always the Self-Destruct Function. But that's very unlikely to happen. 5B is strong, and she is capable. You have faith in that.
The two of you move together through the vegetation. Quietly, but not sneakily. Dry branches snapping underneath your feet, and grasses and fallen leaves chafe against the dirt ground. There is little point in being stealthy. The White Boar is simply too hurt, and if it notices your presence, it's very unlikely to strike. Nevertheless, you still keep a distance, and refrain from any sudden movement. It may not strike, but if it feels cornered - if it believes that 5B is going to kill it, then it may as well retaliate.
You couldn't see it back before, but now that you've parted the brambles, and bushes, you're finally close enough to see the first of its wounds. Speckles of blood splattered against its white hide, and more of it against its rump where it was previously hidden by distance. And as you come closer... you emit a soft hiss. 5B grimaces. Bloody. That's one word for the White Boar's current predicament. Half of its left hind-leg practically gone, shaved clean of meat to show bone; and what you thought previously as a simple cut on its rump reveals to be a huge bloody gash - flesh hanging off fat, and sinews. Something cruel has been run over it; something jagged, and serrated, and by someone strong enough to pull the stunt.
You've expected it to be hurt due to quarrel with another animal, or perhaps it suffered an accident. They were wrong. This was caused by someone. And whoever they were, it had no intention of a merciful death for the boar.
"... Poor thing," 5B mutters under her breath, shaking her head. "How detestable," she scans throughout the surrounding, keeping an eye on me. "The wound is fresh, and I don't think it's caused by an accident - either whoever did this is dead, or they're still alive. Be careful, 3H."
You nod, feeling more tense than before. It would be one thing to face an angry animal, but it would be another to face someone capable of causing this. You look around; more for the gesture than anything. For once, you hope you were a Scanner model - you're sure they could see things farther than your eyes could, and as a Healer model, you're practically useless in this situation. Or rather, you could do so little that you may as well be useless. That's to be expected of a defect, you suppose -
You see a flash of red; a random glint from the sun, and then you hear the death keen of the White Boar. It keels over, before falling to its side. Over to its side - where its heart is - a crimson barbed spear juts out, the boar's blood almost unidentifiable against the spear's coloration. Something about it sends shiver down your spine; a sensation that made you lightheaded, and struck by nausea; the scent of something sickly sweet, and rotten creeping into your nose - gone when you're looking for it, but there when you don't focus into it. Its blade is cruel looking; pointed straight, and jagged, and serrated down on both sides. A weapon not to just kill, but to inflict as much pain as possible.
5B steps ahead. And this time, you don't follow. You look around, spot a large tree, and hide yourself behind it. Peeking around it, you hear the sound of whirring before another red blur enters the clearing. This time, it's not another spear. Instead, it's a Machine Lifeform. Your breath hitches, and you clench your fists. It's not unlike the other Machines you've seen in the City Ruin, but that's not quite it. Wearing a cloak painted in blood, and more alarmingly, it has a pair of glowing red eyes.
It stands there for a moment. Quiet. Then it rips the spear from the boar's corpse with an alarming ease. "You!" it warbles, voice monotone, and loud, but the intent caught as it points the red spear at 5B. "You're the one who did this!"
It could speak? No, not speak. Imitate. But isn't that basically the same thing? You frown. Not that it truly matters. If it's only speaking gibberish, it's still acting aggressive. If it's aware of what it's speaking, then it's still acting aggressive.
5B is taking it in stride, cocking an eyebrow. Perhaps she already knows. "Hah. Unless my eyes are fooling me, I do not believe that to be the case."
The Machine trembles. It's angry, you realize. "Lies! Lies! Lies! I will avenge this poor animal!"
Another red-blur. Metal clangs against metal; the noise reverberating in the air. For a breathless moment, the barbed spear spirals in the ai, and then the Machine shoots for the spear. 5B already anticipates the movement, aiming to cut it down, but it's too fast; shaving rust as it grabs the spear, and aims downwards to 5B's head. She steps forward with a ducked head, barely dodging; a stray strand of gold falling away, and swings the sword upwards.
Instead of biting metal, the Machine hangs upside-down in the air, the spear biting deep into the ground. He falls back to the ground, dislodging the spear. You are halfway into a shout, before 5B moves again; almost like a dance, she moves around the robot, moving to its side, before stepping forward into the Machine's space. It doesn't expect that, and it lets out a warble as 5B smashes it with the hilt of her sword.
The Machine snaps backwards; half of its body bent backwards, but it recovers almost immediately, leaping backwards. Like a piston engine, it begins to shower blows against 5B; a barrage of red-flashing stabs, nearly a blurry red in your sight. You could see 5B gritting her teeth; her sword moving swift, her body swifter. Something twists in your throat as the spear tears cloth, and grazes at skin, and you see droplets of blood in the air.
Then there's a moment's reprieve. The Machine takes a step back, hunches forward, spear facing downwards; readying for another, but more powerful lunge. But that moment of reprieve is enough for 5B; just as the spear shoots out, her red sword smashes the spear away in the middle of its trajectory, skewing its aim right above her shoulder. She immediately steps into the Machine's personal space, raising her sword - but the Machine is, you realize belatedly, not only stronger, but also faster. Her overhead swing misses its head as it moves sideways - and in an almost same move that 5B did before, slid to her side. Green eyes widen, and 5B turns, but too late; red dots flash, and the spear lunges -
"5B!"
A cry tears out of your throat, your body tumbling out of the tree. Too fast, too quick. Artificial blood splatters down onto the ground, pooling into glistening puddles of red. Her body buckles forward, falling; kept standing only by the barbed spear. Green eyes flash, twitching, only to dim. Her sword clatters, slips from her grip. Red dotted eyes turn to you.
"No..." you whisper. No way. Impossible. 5B couldn't - she's - you fall to the ground. "No no no no no no -"
"Ah," your heart leaps out of your throat. The Machine jumps in surprise. 5B takes a step forward, a pained smile on her lips. "It is not over, yet," she takes another step forward, and belatedly, you realize that the spear is lodged through between her side, and arm. The Machine reacts, but 5B has already covered the ground. Her left food lashes out to its side, and it careens through the air, slamming against a tree. The barbed spear is still on her side. She glances at you, before grimacing, looking away. She takes the barbed spear from her side, twirling it around, before facing the Machine.
Red eyes seem to glower as it stands there, motionless. It twitches, leaping forward, but rather than utilizing the spear, 5B lets the barbed spear materializes away - you could almost see the surprise in the Machine's body, and 5B snatches it from the air, and slamming it down to the ground. It twitches again. 5B mounts the Machine, beginning to rain blow, after blow. It tries to escape, but 5B blocks its attempt. It tries to roll sideways, and it succeeds - only for 5B to turn it over to her advantage, slipping behind it, and you could hear metal creak as 5B begins to turn its round head -
Then you see its eyes aim at you. His hand moves - no, his hand detaches, but before it could do what you think it'll do, it's sent careening back against another tree. 5B stands there, eyes wide - frenzied, worried, and scared - at you, before snapping back to the Machine.
It's already standing. It wobbles for a moment, looking around, stops - and then it turns back, and run into the deep forest. 5B moves to chase, only to freeze - eyes locking down to you; at your pitiful self, sitting on the ground like a silly buffoon.
5B grimaces. You hide yours better. Green eyes glance downwards to her bloodied side. Her under-arm, and side shaved to reveal torn skin, and endoskeleton; you think you can even see a slight gash against it. But it's all superficial wound, in the end. You could fix it, no problem, but... you clench your fists together.
You doubted her. In that moment, you lost faith in 5B, and believes that she was going to lose - that she was going to die... what kind of Support are you, to not believe in your Partner?
"Ah," she grimaces again, pausing.
There's a moment of brief indecision.
[] Have her chase it. You're just going to drag her down. Again.
[] HEAL HER. Now. Right. Now. It's stupid, you know, but she's wounded. Screw everything. Screw Saber. Screw that Machine. Time to make yourself useful, for once.
[] Finish the Mission. Get the Boar's head. The sooner you finish this, the better.
Edit: God. I hope the fighting scene was not crap.
...
You have to admit that there is some part of you that is morbidly curious. Boars are said to be very tough, and though they're not as dexterous as other animals, that does not make them any less speedy. So to see one being wounded to the point of limping? Maybe it's because of your Type, but you can't help but find it intriguing. At the very least, you could identify its wounds, and see where it's going before 5B could give it mercy.
You nod, decision made. "Let's follow it."
"Alright," 5B flashes you a quick smile, before nodding, smoothing her expression. "Keep behind me, 3H. I don't want you getting hurt," there is a soft sound; a melodious tinkle, like the clink of glass against glass. Light flickers in her hand, and where previously there was nothing, there's now a red-as-blood, and black-as-night sword; the colors forming lines down to its tip. It is a strange looking sword. Jagged, and curved, and fluid like flame turned blade - as though it is created by a master-smith who has bare-bones understanding of a sword, and rather than made for battle, it was made as an ornament. Yet, despite that, you also know that it is more than capable of doing its job. On 5B, you spot a graceful expression; like an elegant, and beautiful actress stepping into the theater stage.
This kind of 5B is not bad at all, you muse, and idly, you wonder how many of her expressions you could collect before you forget everything. You shake that away. Better not to dwell in it. At least, not now. "I'll be careful," you assure 5B, and her lips twitch gratefully. As a Healer Type, you're really not built for combat. You don't even know how to fight. But because of that, you're programmed to know how to be as unnoticeable, and as helpful as possible during combat.
... If push comes to shove, there is always the Self-Destruct Function. But that's very unlikely to happen. 5B is strong, and she is capable. You have faith in that.
The two of you move together through the vegetation. Quietly, but not sneakily. Dry branches snapping underneath your feet, and grasses and fallen leaves chafe against the dirt ground. There is little point in being stealthy. The White Boar is simply too hurt, and if it notices your presence, it's very unlikely to strike. Nevertheless, you still keep a distance, and refrain from any sudden movement. It may not strike, but if it feels cornered - if it believes that 5B is going to kill it, then it may as well retaliate.
You couldn't see it back before, but now that you've parted the brambles, and bushes, you're finally close enough to see the first of its wounds. Speckles of blood splattered against its white hide, and more of it against its rump where it was previously hidden by distance. And as you come closer... you emit a soft hiss. 5B grimaces. Bloody. That's one word for the White Boar's current predicament. Half of its left hind-leg practically gone, shaved clean of meat to show bone; and what you thought previously as a simple cut on its rump reveals to be a huge bloody gash - flesh hanging off fat, and sinews. Something cruel has been run over it; something jagged, and serrated, and by someone strong enough to pull the stunt.
You've expected it to be hurt due to quarrel with another animal, or perhaps it suffered an accident. They were wrong. This was caused by someone. And whoever they were, it had no intention of a merciful death for the boar.
"... Poor thing," 5B mutters under her breath, shaking her head. "How detestable," she scans throughout the surrounding, keeping an eye on me. "The wound is fresh, and I don't think it's caused by an accident - either whoever did this is dead, or they're still alive. Be careful, 3H."
You nod, feeling more tense than before. It would be one thing to face an angry animal, but it would be another to face someone capable of causing this. You look around; more for the gesture than anything. For once, you hope you were a Scanner model - you're sure they could see things farther than your eyes could, and as a Healer model, you're practically useless in this situation. Or rather, you could do so little that you may as well be useless. That's to be expected of a defect, you suppose -
You see a flash of red; a random glint from the sun, and then you hear the death keen of the White Boar. It keels over, before falling to its side. Over to its side - where its heart is - a crimson barbed spear juts out, the boar's blood almost unidentifiable against the spear's coloration. Something about it sends shiver down your spine; a sensation that made you lightheaded, and struck by nausea; the scent of something sickly sweet, and rotten creeping into your nose - gone when you're looking for it, but there when you don't focus into it. Its blade is cruel looking; pointed straight, and jagged, and serrated down on both sides. A weapon not to just kill, but to inflict as much pain as possible.
5B steps ahead. And this time, you don't follow. You look around, spot a large tree, and hide yourself behind it. Peeking around it, you hear the sound of whirring before another red blur enters the clearing. This time, it's not another spear. Instead, it's a Machine Lifeform. Your breath hitches, and you clench your fists. It's not unlike the other Machines you've seen in the City Ruin, but that's not quite it. Wearing a cloak painted in blood, and more alarmingly, it has a pair of glowing red eyes.
It stands there for a moment. Quiet. Then it rips the spear from the boar's corpse with an alarming ease. "You!" it warbles, voice monotone, and loud, but the intent caught as it points the red spear at 5B. "You're the one who did this!"
It could speak? No, not speak. Imitate. But isn't that basically the same thing? You frown. Not that it truly matters. If it's only speaking gibberish, it's still acting aggressive. If it's aware of what it's speaking, then it's still acting aggressive.
5B is taking it in stride, cocking an eyebrow. Perhaps she already knows. "Hah. Unless my eyes are fooling me, I do not believe that to be the case."
The Machine trembles. It's angry, you realize. "Lies! Lies! Lies! I will avenge this poor animal!"
Another red-blur. Metal clangs against metal; the noise reverberating in the air. For a breathless moment, the barbed spear spirals in the ai, and then the Machine shoots for the spear. 5B already anticipates the movement, aiming to cut it down, but it's too fast; shaving rust as it grabs the spear, and aims downwards to 5B's head. She steps forward with a ducked head, barely dodging; a stray strand of gold falling away, and swings the sword upwards.
Instead of biting metal, the Machine hangs upside-down in the air, the spear biting deep into the ground. He falls back to the ground, dislodging the spear. You are halfway into a shout, before 5B moves again; almost like a dance, she moves around the robot, moving to its side, before stepping forward into the Machine's space. It doesn't expect that, and it lets out a warble as 5B smashes it with the hilt of her sword.
The Machine snaps backwards; half of its body bent backwards, but it recovers almost immediately, leaping backwards. Like a piston engine, it begins to shower blows against 5B; a barrage of red-flashing stabs, nearly a blurry red in your sight. You could see 5B gritting her teeth; her sword moving swift, her body swifter. Something twists in your throat as the spear tears cloth, and grazes at skin, and you see droplets of blood in the air.
Then there's a moment's reprieve. The Machine takes a step back, hunches forward, spear facing downwards; readying for another, but more powerful lunge. But that moment of reprieve is enough for 5B; just as the spear shoots out, her red sword smashes the spear away in the middle of its trajectory, skewing its aim right above her shoulder. She immediately steps into the Machine's personal space, raising her sword - but the Machine is, you realize belatedly, not only stronger, but also faster. Her overhead swing misses its head as it moves sideways - and in an almost same move that 5B did before, slid to her side. Green eyes widen, and 5B turns, but too late; red dots flash, and the spear lunges -
"5B!"
A cry tears out of your throat, your body tumbling out of the tree. Too fast, too quick. Artificial blood splatters down onto the ground, pooling into glistening puddles of red. Her body buckles forward, falling; kept standing only by the barbed spear. Green eyes flash, twitching, only to dim. Her sword clatters, slips from her grip. Red dotted eyes turn to you.
"No..." you whisper. No way. Impossible. 5B couldn't - she's - you fall to the ground. "No no no no no no -"
"Ah," your heart leaps out of your throat. The Machine jumps in surprise. 5B takes a step forward, a pained smile on her lips. "It is not over, yet," she takes another step forward, and belatedly, you realize that the spear is lodged through between her side, and arm. The Machine reacts, but 5B has already covered the ground. Her left food lashes out to its side, and it careens through the air, slamming against a tree. The barbed spear is still on her side. She glances at you, before grimacing, looking away. She takes the barbed spear from her side, twirling it around, before facing the Machine.
Red eyes seem to glower as it stands there, motionless. It twitches, leaping forward, but rather than utilizing the spear, 5B lets the barbed spear materializes away - you could almost see the surprise in the Machine's body, and 5B snatches it from the air, and slamming it down to the ground. It twitches again. 5B mounts the Machine, beginning to rain blow, after blow. It tries to escape, but 5B blocks its attempt. It tries to roll sideways, and it succeeds - only for 5B to turn it over to her advantage, slipping behind it, and you could hear metal creak as 5B begins to turn its round head -
Then you see its eyes aim at you. His hand moves - no, his hand detaches, but before it could do what you think it'll do, it's sent careening back against another tree. 5B stands there, eyes wide - frenzied, worried, and scared - at you, before snapping back to the Machine.
It's already standing. It wobbles for a moment, looking around, stops - and then it turns back, and run into the deep forest. 5B moves to chase, only to freeze - eyes locking down to you; at your pitiful self, sitting on the ground like a silly buffoon.
5B grimaces. You hide yours better. Green eyes glance downwards to her bloodied side. Her under-arm, and side shaved to reveal torn skin, and endoskeleton; you think you can even see a slight gash against it. But it's all superficial wound, in the end. You could fix it, no problem, but... you clench your fists together.
You doubted her. In that moment, you lost faith in 5B, and believes that she was going to lose - that she was going to die... what kind of Support are you, to not believe in your Partner?
"Ah," she grimaces again, pausing.
There's a moment of brief indecision.
[] Have her chase it. You're just going to drag her down. Again.
[] HEAL HER. Now. Right. Now. It's stupid, you know, but she's wounded. Screw everything. Screw Saber. Screw that Machine. Time to make yourself useful, for once.
[] Finish the Mission. Get the Boar's head. The sooner you finish this, the better.
Dear Praetor,
Can you hear me? It has been ### after you've won. It is lonely without you. Why did you have to leave me, after I have found the thing that I want the most? Was my passion to you not enough? Was that it?
Please come back.
???
???
???
Can you hear me? It has been ### after you've won. It is lonely without you. Why did you have to leave me, after I have found the thing that I want the most? Was my passion to you not enough? Was that it?
Please come back.
???
???
???
Edit: God. I hope the fighting scene was not crap.
Last edited:
Update V
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[X] HEAL HER. Now. Right. Now. It's stupid, you know, but she's wounded. Screw everything. Screw Saber. Screw that Machine. Timeto make yourself useful, for once.
For a brief moment, you are struck by indecision; your eyes meeting her green eyes. And then you move, long strides leading you right to her side. 5B twitches, but does nothing more as you set your eyes on her wounded side. It is as what you've extrapolated before; skin torn revealing endoskeleton, and artificial blood staining her black dress, but it's all superficial, just as the thin grazes that now cover most of 5B's body. Painful, true, and they look ugly, but not critical. The smart, recommended, and most efficient move would be to finish what you're here for in the first place, and heal 5B once you arrived back at the camp.
5B hisses lightly as you carefully lead her against the trunk of a tree. She stands there, before sliding down against the wooden pillar, seemingly understanding of your intention. You breathe in, nodding your head, before pushing your hands out toward her.
Despite being a Healer Type, the method of Healing itself is strange to you. Maybe it's because this is technically the first time you've healed someone, or due to the clash of 'methods' of healing a biological being, and a mechanical being. While you would need to sometimes slie open skin, or maybe utilize other medicines when caring for a biological being, you use something entirely different with a mechanical being. Namely, an energy called 'Prana' - or is it 'Od'? Maybe even something else entirely. You're not sure. Not really. You understand it, instinctively, but you don't understand it, consciously speaking. Like how you know how to move your limbs, but you're not aware the process or reactions of how your limbs moved.
There are three steps. First, diagnose your patient. Something golden flickers inside your mind, and you could see your previous extrapolation being confirmed. Less 'magic', and more your function as a Healer. Once you have that, switch it on. Golden lines race together; a click that is both literal, and metaphorical. And then the last step, something that is both easiest, and hardest - heal. Though calling it 'heal' would simplify it. It is more that you take your physical components, and then 'change' them into something compatible with 5B. Sacrifice would be the more accurate term, but 'sacrifice' implies you're giving up something valuable. Golden particles like twinkling stars, or fireflies flowing out of your palms, melting into 5B's side; glowing softly, before 'filling up' her 'mold', turning into metal for her endoskeleton, and artificial skin; leaving them unblemished, though not pristine from the blood.
You eye them for a moment, before nodding in satisfaction, 'switching' it off. With how small the wounds are, it doesn't really take a toll against you, and you suspect that it would be more dangerous the more wounded she is.
"... I have to apologize."
You blink, startled from your minor victory. 5B hangs her head, looking at the ground sullenly. "What's wrong?" you ask, brows furrowed in confusion as you settle down by her side. Really. It feels like you're the one who should apologize, but you don't say that.
She sighs. "It is stupid, even I know that," she mutters. 5B turns to you, but her eyes don't quite meet yours. "I... I was showing off. To you," she admits, after a moment. "And I could have avoided... this," she motions at herself.
You blink, opening your mouth, before closing it. Some part of you feels that you should feel angry, and you would lie to say that you're not, however slight - but there's resignation, and acceptance... and guilt. In a way, you've expected her to do this. 5B is simply not someone who would not show off. It's what makes her her, and now you're making her guilty because of your reaction, and that only fuels your guilt. "... It's fine," you say.
5B shakes her head. "You do not understand," she says, and this time, she does meet your eyes. "I am... over-complicating my own feelings, and it is stupid because..." she trails off, eyes falling down.
You shift a little. Uncomfortable. Some fear; an unexpected unknown. "You don't have to say it," you mumble.
"No," 5B raises her head again, sighing. "This... I have done this before. Repeating it over, and over, and reaching the same result, and I would feel happy, but it's stupid because nothing changes but I..." I want to make sure you're the same.
... Oh. Something twists in your stomach. You don't want to name it. "Oh," you say, numb. Now you find yourself looking down. You don't know how long you remain like that. 5B doesn't say anything, keeping quiet. You wish she would say something. Your throat tightens, and you feel something glisten in your eyes. You force yourself to take a deep breath. "What..." you speak, and you can almost hear the crack in 5B's neck as she turns to you. You peek to her, meekly. Fearfully. "What kind of person was I?"
For a moment, 5B looks dumbfounded, but then it melts into a smile; her gentle green eyes looking right at you, cheeks rosy pink. "The same as you are right now. Kind, and caring, and considerate - mayhaps too considerate," she explains.
"Ah," you lean back against her shoulder. Relief. How... strange. How... bitter. You are losing yourself. You take another breath, closing your eyes. Something wanders into your mind, and you blush. It has occurred to you more than once, before, but... "We are not normal partners, are we?" you ask, and you could feel her shift slightly. "... Can you tell me what kind of relationship we were in?"
For the longest moment, 5B doesn't say anything. Is that hesitation, or just trying to compose the words? "... It varies," she finally says. "Sometimes we're close friends. Sometimes we're very close friends. Sometimes we're even more..." she trails off, and then quietly, "Though I prefer the last one."
Now it's your turn to hesitate - to lose the words to speak. You open your eyes, aware of the increasing pace of your 'beating heart'. Love. What a strange emotion, you decide - and you wonder if this is also what you're feeling. "... Do you..."
Her breath hitches. "I do. I definitely do."
Your lips twitch. "But..."
She shakes her head. "I do not care," 5B closes her eyes. "You are you, however many times you have forgotten, and I am I. Nothing changes."
But you do. But something has changed. "I... I see."
5B looks at you, her lips tugging into an unsure, soft smile. "Are we..."
[] Yes. Kiss her. You would lie if you do not... like like 5B, and in the end, that's what matters, right? You're you. She said so. Nothing changes. She'll be happy, and so will you. It's fine.
[] No. Don't. It's... wrong. You are you. You don't - you don't want to be the 3Hs before you. It's scary. It's terrifying. You are losing yourself. You love 5B, but if you want to go... more, then she has to realize that you are you.
You open your mouth -
"Oh My God!"
5B snaps her head to the side, eyes narrowed in frustration, and caution as she jumps up to her feet. You follow her, keeping your back against the tree as 5B steps forward. There, from between the trees, another Machine Life-form bursts out. Yellow eyes, and a blue shawl that covers most of itself. It wobbles towards the Boar. "Michelangelo! Who did this to you?!" it cries out - and then it turns to 5B. "You!" it points. "It must be you!"
It speaks. You feel like you should be more surprised, but just as many other times before, you're not. Perhaps it is because you have seen one that speaks. Perhaps it's because 5B doesn't look surprised either, which means you shouldn't.
5B closes her eyes, heaving out a breath, before opening them again. "No, it wasn't me."
"... No?" Blue-Shawl blinks, before turning to the dead Boar. Then it seems to sag. "Oh," it trembles. "So it's her. Again."
You share a look. "Again?" you broach. Also, her? "Who is her?"
"Huh?" Blue-Shawl turns to you, tilting its head. "Oh. Um. You are Androids!" it exclaims, before taking a step back. Then it pauses. "You are not... going to kill me?"
You share a look again with 5B. You shake your head. 5B's lips twitch. "No, we're not," you say. "But could you tell me what's happening?"
"Err..." the Machine fidgets, before shrugging. "I suppose I could. It is not a long story. There was once a King in this Forest, Ernst. He has many followers. One day, he is dead. When all hope is lost, an Android in Blue revives that hope by giving a prophecy, that one day, the King Ernst will return. So given that promise, all of his followers have now fallen into a deep sleep until the King returns, and wakes them up," there's a beat. "I think they were taking it too literal."
5B frowns. There's something in there that you can't describe. "So, where do you, and that Red-Cloaked one come in?"
It hums. "I am simply an Outsider. I do not have a hand in the Forest Kingdom. But," it hunches its shoulders. Anger, you realize. "That damned Red-Eyes... she was supposed to be the Guardian; keep the Kingdom safe, but she has tasted blood, and now she has gone mad. Please," yellow eyes turn to you. "She has killed so much of the animals in here. So much of my friends. You have to kill her!"
5B turns to you. "What do you think, 3H?"
[] Accept. Investigate this Forest Kingdom right away.
[] Accept. Track the Red-Eyes/Red-Cloaked One (?).
[] Accept. But finish Saber's request first.
[] Refuse. You... have more than enough, currently. Just finish the request Saber gave you.
For a brief moment, you are struck by indecision; your eyes meeting her green eyes. And then you move, long strides leading you right to her side. 5B twitches, but does nothing more as you set your eyes on her wounded side. It is as what you've extrapolated before; skin torn revealing endoskeleton, and artificial blood staining her black dress, but it's all superficial, just as the thin grazes that now cover most of 5B's body. Painful, true, and they look ugly, but not critical. The smart, recommended, and most efficient move would be to finish what you're here for in the first place, and heal 5B once you arrived back at the camp.
5B hisses lightly as you carefully lead her against the trunk of a tree. She stands there, before sliding down against the wooden pillar, seemingly understanding of your intention. You breathe in, nodding your head, before pushing your hands out toward her.
Despite being a Healer Type, the method of Healing itself is strange to you. Maybe it's because this is technically the first time you've healed someone, or due to the clash of 'methods' of healing a biological being, and a mechanical being. While you would need to sometimes slie open skin, or maybe utilize other medicines when caring for a biological being, you use something entirely different with a mechanical being. Namely, an energy called 'Prana' - or is it 'Od'? Maybe even something else entirely. You're not sure. Not really. You understand it, instinctively, but you don't understand it, consciously speaking. Like how you know how to move your limbs, but you're not aware the process or reactions of how your limbs moved.
There are three steps. First, diagnose your patient. Something golden flickers inside your mind, and you could see your previous extrapolation being confirmed. Less 'magic', and more your function as a Healer. Once you have that, switch it on. Golden lines race together; a click that is both literal, and metaphorical. And then the last step, something that is both easiest, and hardest - heal. Though calling it 'heal' would simplify it. It is more that you take your physical components, and then 'change' them into something compatible with 5B. Sacrifice would be the more accurate term, but 'sacrifice' implies you're giving up something valuable. Golden particles like twinkling stars, or fireflies flowing out of your palms, melting into 5B's side; glowing softly, before 'filling up' her 'mold', turning into metal for her endoskeleton, and artificial skin; leaving them unblemished, though not pristine from the blood.
You eye them for a moment, before nodding in satisfaction, 'switching' it off. With how small the wounds are, it doesn't really take a toll against you, and you suspect that it would be more dangerous the more wounded she is.
"... I have to apologize."
You blink, startled from your minor victory. 5B hangs her head, looking at the ground sullenly. "What's wrong?" you ask, brows furrowed in confusion as you settle down by her side. Really. It feels like you're the one who should apologize, but you don't say that.
She sighs. "It is stupid, even I know that," she mutters. 5B turns to you, but her eyes don't quite meet yours. "I... I was showing off. To you," she admits, after a moment. "And I could have avoided... this," she motions at herself.
You blink, opening your mouth, before closing it. Some part of you feels that you should feel angry, and you would lie to say that you're not, however slight - but there's resignation, and acceptance... and guilt. In a way, you've expected her to do this. 5B is simply not someone who would not show off. It's what makes her her, and now you're making her guilty because of your reaction, and that only fuels your guilt. "... It's fine," you say.
5B shakes her head. "You do not understand," she says, and this time, she does meet your eyes. "I am... over-complicating my own feelings, and it is stupid because..." she trails off, eyes falling down.
You shift a little. Uncomfortable. Some fear; an unexpected unknown. "You don't have to say it," you mumble.
"No," 5B raises her head again, sighing. "This... I have done this before. Repeating it over, and over, and reaching the same result, and I would feel happy, but it's stupid because nothing changes but I..." I want to make sure you're the same.
... Oh. Something twists in your stomach. You don't want to name it. "Oh," you say, numb. Now you find yourself looking down. You don't know how long you remain like that. 5B doesn't say anything, keeping quiet. You wish she would say something. Your throat tightens, and you feel something glisten in your eyes. You force yourself to take a deep breath. "What..." you speak, and you can almost hear the crack in 5B's neck as she turns to you. You peek to her, meekly. Fearfully. "What kind of person was I?"
For a moment, 5B looks dumbfounded, but then it melts into a smile; her gentle green eyes looking right at you, cheeks rosy pink. "The same as you are right now. Kind, and caring, and considerate - mayhaps too considerate," she explains.
"Ah," you lean back against her shoulder. Relief. How... strange. How... bitter. You are losing yourself. You take another breath, closing your eyes. Something wanders into your mind, and you blush. It has occurred to you more than once, before, but... "We are not normal partners, are we?" you ask, and you could feel her shift slightly. "... Can you tell me what kind of relationship we were in?"
For the longest moment, 5B doesn't say anything. Is that hesitation, or just trying to compose the words? "... It varies," she finally says. "Sometimes we're close friends. Sometimes we're very close friends. Sometimes we're even more..." she trails off, and then quietly, "Though I prefer the last one."
Now it's your turn to hesitate - to lose the words to speak. You open your eyes, aware of the increasing pace of your 'beating heart'. Love. What a strange emotion, you decide - and you wonder if this is also what you're feeling. "... Do you..."
Her breath hitches. "I do. I definitely do."
Your lips twitch. "But..."
She shakes her head. "I do not care," 5B closes her eyes. "You are you, however many times you have forgotten, and I am I. Nothing changes."
But you do. But something has changed. "I... I see."
5B looks at you, her lips tugging into an unsure, soft smile. "Are we..."
[] Yes. Kiss her. You would lie if you do not... like like 5B, and in the end, that's what matters, right? You're you. She said so. Nothing changes. She'll be happy, and so will you. It's fine.
[] No. Don't. It's... wrong. You are you. You don't - you don't want to be the 3Hs before you. It's scary. It's terrifying. You are losing yourself. You love 5B, but if you want to go... more, then she has to realize that you are you.
You open your mouth -
"Oh My God!"
5B snaps her head to the side, eyes narrowed in frustration, and caution as she jumps up to her feet. You follow her, keeping your back against the tree as 5B steps forward. There, from between the trees, another Machine Life-form bursts out. Yellow eyes, and a blue shawl that covers most of itself. It wobbles towards the Boar. "Michelangelo! Who did this to you?!" it cries out - and then it turns to 5B. "You!" it points. "It must be you!"
It speaks. You feel like you should be more surprised, but just as many other times before, you're not. Perhaps it is because you have seen one that speaks. Perhaps it's because 5B doesn't look surprised either, which means you shouldn't.
5B closes her eyes, heaving out a breath, before opening them again. "No, it wasn't me."
"... No?" Blue-Shawl blinks, before turning to the dead Boar. Then it seems to sag. "Oh," it trembles. "So it's her. Again."
You share a look. "Again?" you broach. Also, her? "Who is her?"
"Huh?" Blue-Shawl turns to you, tilting its head. "Oh. Um. You are Androids!" it exclaims, before taking a step back. Then it pauses. "You are not... going to kill me?"
You share a look again with 5B. You shake your head. 5B's lips twitch. "No, we're not," you say. "But could you tell me what's happening?"
"Err..." the Machine fidgets, before shrugging. "I suppose I could. It is not a long story. There was once a King in this Forest, Ernst. He has many followers. One day, he is dead. When all hope is lost, an Android in Blue revives that hope by giving a prophecy, that one day, the King Ernst will return. So given that promise, all of his followers have now fallen into a deep sleep until the King returns, and wakes them up," there's a beat. "I think they were taking it too literal."
5B frowns. There's something in there that you can't describe. "So, where do you, and that Red-Cloaked one come in?"
It hums. "I am simply an Outsider. I do not have a hand in the Forest Kingdom. But," it hunches its shoulders. Anger, you realize. "That damned Red-Eyes... she was supposed to be the Guardian; keep the Kingdom safe, but she has tasted blood, and now she has gone mad. Please," yellow eyes turn to you. "She has killed so much of the animals in here. So much of my friends. You have to kill her!"
5B turns to you. "What do you think, 3H?"
[] Accept. Investigate this Forest Kingdom right away.
[] Accept. Track the Red-Eyes/Red-Cloaked One (?).
[] Accept. But finish Saber's request first.
[] Refuse. You... have more than enough, currently. Just finish the request Saber gave you.
Nero: Automata - Sinkquattro
I don't think 3H's hair color has been mentioned. So here's a Nero instead.
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Update VI
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[] Yes. Kiss her. You would lie if you do not... like like 5B, and in the end, that's what matters, right? You're you. She said so. Nothing changes. She'll be happy, and so will you. It's fine.
[] Accept. But finish Saber's request first.
...
You share a look with 5B. There is a desire in them; a want that you're not entirely keen for. Although you don't believe 5B to be bloodthirsty, she is passionate, proud, and boastful; after her unfinished encounter with the Red Machine, you don't think she wants to let the Machine off the hook that easily. She wants to defeat the Machine. And not just that, she desires - your heart thumps a little; you know what look now - for a chance to prove herself. To you. She doesn't need to. And she won't, if you say the word. She won't be satisfied, but she would listen. She trust you - this defect of a partner.
But there is also curiosity in them, and you have to admit, she's not the only one - even if they're both for a different reason. You saw something there, on her expression, when the Blue Machine was done with its story: of curiosity, and something else; a sense of insecurity that you can not possibly know. And it kills you for not knowing; gnaws at your bones for not understanding, and tears at your throat for being too fearful to ask. And it tickles at your brain; inflates your heart because what if, just, what if this - this entire thing could be something completely exclusive for you and 5B.
Almost like a date, you muse. Only now, there is an additional chance of encountering a murderous Machine.
... Not that it truly matters, either way. After all, you've already made your decision.
"We'll do it," you nod.
You see a flicker of surprise on her expression; a slight widening on her eyes as she turns to you, before they soften into relief, and joy that makes your insides all gooey. It's adorable, and you try your best not to let it show on your face as you turn to face the Machine. Although you don't think it matters, you are technically confiding with an enemy - though you wonder if an enemy could be called an enemy when they've surrendered.
"Really?!" the Machine perks up, waving its arms upwards. "That's good! That's good! No, that's awesome. Woo," it shakes its head. "That insane Machine has been terrorizing the entire forest; killing any living being that enters here. And you know, normally, I would not mind that. But then my lovable animals are living, and breathing - so I do mind that."
It's really talkative for a Machine, huh? If there is any doubt left that the Machine is just repeating words, then it's all thrown off the proverbial window.
"Wait," you blink, turning to 5B. She peers at the Machine in curiosity, stepping back to stand by your side; the fabric on her shoulder brushing against - "If the Red Machine has been terrorizing the place for a long time, why have you not tried to stop it?"
"But I have!" it exclaims, before dropping its head; an attempt at sighing. Curious. "But it's almost like she's always one step ahead of me! It's like this too," it waves at the White Boar. "She would always elude me, and whenever I catch a whiff of her scent, it would only lead me to the corpse of my beloved animals. It's cruel, I say."
"It is," you sympathize. "But before we -" well, 5B "- hunt her..." you trail off, trying to find the right words. In the end, you decide to be blunt: "There's something that we need."
"Oh?" it tilts its head. "Please, name your price! Anything to get rid of that troublesome pest!"
"Um," you scratch at your cheek. Where to even begin? "We were actually here in the first place to hunt the White Boar," you explain, carefully, and you note that 5B has stepped forward ahead of you. "So we would like to have its head."
"Oh."
What should actually be only seconds stretch into an eternity. The Machine looks down, seemingly mulling. 5B ready to strike at a moment's notice. You hoping that that's not going to be necessary, but depending on the Machine's temperament, that may be highly unlikely -
"Alright," the Machine proceeds to cut your thought. It nods, turning back to the White Boar. "You can take her."
You blink. You share a glance with 5B. She seems as unsure as you are. "Really?"
It nods. "Yes. Really. Well," it adds. "It's not like I could do anything. She's dead..." it steps toward the corpse, leaning its head against the Boar's. "I love you, Michelangelo," it moves back, before nodding at you.
5B lets out a small hum, her fire-like sword materializing in her hand.
With the Boar's Head in the metaphorical, and not-so-metaphorical head, the two of you head back to the Camp in silence. Well, in relative silence. 5B hums that comforting toneless tune of hers; entirely off-key, but pleasant to your ears. Soft winds sweeping at your brown hair; stray strands tickling at your skin. 5B's nearly uncovered back in front of you, offering a nonetheless captivating sight to observe. There's a swagger in her movement; a bubbly bounciness in her expression that makes you want to follow her till the end of the earth.
It's almost enough to forget the conversation you had back in the forest. Almost enough to forget what you were about to say.
You stop suddenly. Try to say something. It clings tightly against the wall of your throat.
5B notices. She halts a couple paces away from you. Concern in her face as she turns around. "3H?" concern that turns into hesitance when she sees your expression.
Or at least, you think that's the reason behind the change. You're not entirely sure. You don't even know what face you're making right now. "About earlier," you broach tentatively. Somehow, it's harder to talk about it. The mood, you think, it's not right.
"Oh," 5B shifts slightly on her spot, eyes glancing downwards. "... You do not have to give me the answer immediately, 3H. I could wait. I'll always wait. I'm, uh, I can be very patient! So you don't have to say it right away..."
You frown. That's not... that's not an expression 5B should be wearing. "No," you state.
"Eh?"
You take a deep breath, meeting her eyes head-on; fists clenched. "I have the answer right now," you lick your lips, moving right in front of her. She leans away slightly. "And that answer is: yes."
You lean into her. Green eyes widen in shock; a muffled gasp of 'umu?!' as her body stiffen. It's so very soft, you think. And smells like flowers, and tastes sweet. And then, with heavy regret, you part away from the kiss. You take a step back, head dropping. Heat on your cheeks like they're burning. For a brief moment, there's dread; you wonder if you've made the right choice -
5B's soft hands pull you tightly against herself. Soft like marshmallows envelops your entire head, and you hear the muffled squeal, and laughter of happiness from 5B. Belatedly, you also realize that you are spinning, and that everything is dark. Despite the slight difficulty of breathing; the floral scent of her dress going deep into your nose, mixing in with dirt, and iron. You giggle, and then giggle again; feeling as though you're flying in clouds - and maybe a little bit flushed. In the end it doesn't really matter. It's like what 5B had said. Nothing changes. You love her. She loves you. And - and that's enough.
You're both happy, and that's what matters.
- Then you're breathing air, tinted with 5B's thick scent. You feel a pair of arms on your sides, and you realize that your feet are not touching the ground. Light pierces into your eyes, recovering to the sight of a brightly beaming 5B; her smile sunny enough to be the sun itself. Cheeks rosy pink, and green eyes glimmering with unrestrained exuberance.
"I love you, 3H."
And now it's her turn to kiss you.
Passionately.
Very passionately.
[Blank Storage]
[] Accept. But finish Saber's request first.
...
You share a look with 5B. There is a desire in them; a want that you're not entirely keen for. Although you don't believe 5B to be bloodthirsty, she is passionate, proud, and boastful; after her unfinished encounter with the Red Machine, you don't think she wants to let the Machine off the hook that easily. She wants to defeat the Machine. And not just that, she desires - your heart thumps a little; you know what look now - for a chance to prove herself. To you. She doesn't need to. And she won't, if you say the word. She won't be satisfied, but she would listen. She trust you - this defect of a partner.
But there is also curiosity in them, and you have to admit, she's not the only one - even if they're both for a different reason. You saw something there, on her expression, when the Blue Machine was done with its story: of curiosity, and something else; a sense of insecurity that you can not possibly know. And it kills you for not knowing; gnaws at your bones for not understanding, and tears at your throat for being too fearful to ask. And it tickles at your brain; inflates your heart because what if, just, what if this - this entire thing could be something completely exclusive for you and 5B.
Almost like a date, you muse. Only now, there is an additional chance of encountering a murderous Machine.
... Not that it truly matters, either way. After all, you've already made your decision.
"We'll do it," you nod.
You see a flicker of surprise on her expression; a slight widening on her eyes as she turns to you, before they soften into relief, and joy that makes your insides all gooey. It's adorable, and you try your best not to let it show on your face as you turn to face the Machine. Although you don't think it matters, you are technically confiding with an enemy - though you wonder if an enemy could be called an enemy when they've surrendered.
"Really?!" the Machine perks up, waving its arms upwards. "That's good! That's good! No, that's awesome. Woo," it shakes its head. "That insane Machine has been terrorizing the entire forest; killing any living being that enters here. And you know, normally, I would not mind that. But then my lovable animals are living, and breathing - so I do mind that."
It's really talkative for a Machine, huh? If there is any doubt left that the Machine is just repeating words, then it's all thrown off the proverbial window.
"Wait," you blink, turning to 5B. She peers at the Machine in curiosity, stepping back to stand by your side; the fabric on her shoulder brushing against - "If the Red Machine has been terrorizing the place for a long time, why have you not tried to stop it?"
"But I have!" it exclaims, before dropping its head; an attempt at sighing. Curious. "But it's almost like she's always one step ahead of me! It's like this too," it waves at the White Boar. "She would always elude me, and whenever I catch a whiff of her scent, it would only lead me to the corpse of my beloved animals. It's cruel, I say."
"It is," you sympathize. "But before we -" well, 5B "- hunt her..." you trail off, trying to find the right words. In the end, you decide to be blunt: "There's something that we need."
"Oh?" it tilts its head. "Please, name your price! Anything to get rid of that troublesome pest!"
"Um," you scratch at your cheek. Where to even begin? "We were actually here in the first place to hunt the White Boar," you explain, carefully, and you note that 5B has stepped forward ahead of you. "So we would like to have its head."
"Oh."
What should actually be only seconds stretch into an eternity. The Machine looks down, seemingly mulling. 5B ready to strike at a moment's notice. You hoping that that's not going to be necessary, but depending on the Machine's temperament, that may be highly unlikely -
"Alright," the Machine proceeds to cut your thought. It nods, turning back to the White Boar. "You can take her."
You blink. You share a glance with 5B. She seems as unsure as you are. "Really?"
It nods. "Yes. Really. Well," it adds. "It's not like I could do anything. She's dead..." it steps toward the corpse, leaning its head against the Boar's. "I love you, Michelangelo," it moves back, before nodding at you.
5B lets out a small hum, her fire-like sword materializing in her hand.
[Blank Storage]
With the Boar's Head in the metaphorical, and not-so-metaphorical head, the two of you head back to the Camp in silence. Well, in relative silence. 5B hums that comforting toneless tune of hers; entirely off-key, but pleasant to your ears. Soft winds sweeping at your brown hair; stray strands tickling at your skin. 5B's nearly uncovered back in front of you, offering a nonetheless captivating sight to observe. There's a swagger in her movement; a bubbly bounciness in her expression that makes you want to follow her till the end of the earth.
It's almost enough to forget the conversation you had back in the forest. Almost enough to forget what you were about to say.
You stop suddenly. Try to say something. It clings tightly against the wall of your throat.
5B notices. She halts a couple paces away from you. Concern in her face as she turns around. "3H?" concern that turns into hesitance when she sees your expression.
Or at least, you think that's the reason behind the change. You're not entirely sure. You don't even know what face you're making right now. "About earlier," you broach tentatively. Somehow, it's harder to talk about it. The mood, you think, it's not right.
"Oh," 5B shifts slightly on her spot, eyes glancing downwards. "... You do not have to give me the answer immediately, 3H. I could wait. I'll always wait. I'm, uh, I can be very patient! So you don't have to say it right away..."
You frown. That's not... that's not an expression 5B should be wearing. "No," you state.
"Eh?"
You take a deep breath, meeting her eyes head-on; fists clenched. "I have the answer right now," you lick your lips, moving right in front of her. She leans away slightly. "And that answer is: yes."
You lean into her. Green eyes widen in shock; a muffled gasp of 'umu?!' as her body stiffen. It's so very soft, you think. And smells like flowers, and tastes sweet. And then, with heavy regret, you part away from the kiss. You take a step back, head dropping. Heat on your cheeks like they're burning. For a brief moment, there's dread; you wonder if you've made the right choice -
5B's soft hands pull you tightly against herself. Soft like marshmallows envelops your entire head, and you hear the muffled squeal, and laughter of happiness from 5B. Belatedly, you also realize that you are spinning, and that everything is dark. Despite the slight difficulty of breathing; the floral scent of her dress going deep into your nose, mixing in with dirt, and iron. You giggle, and then giggle again; feeling as though you're flying in clouds - and maybe a little bit flushed. In the end it doesn't really matter. It's like what 5B had said. Nothing changes. You love her. She loves you. And - and that's enough.
You're both happy, and that's what matters.
- Then you're breathing air, tinted with 5B's thick scent. You feel a pair of arms on your sides, and you realize that your feet are not touching the ground. Light pierces into your eyes, recovering to the sight of a brightly beaming 5B; her smile sunny enough to be the sun itself. Cheeks rosy pink, and green eyes glimmering with unrestrained exuberance.
"I love you, 3H."
And now it's her turn to kiss you.
Passionately.
Very passionately.
[Blank Storage]
Saber stares at the two of you for a very long time. 5B beams. You couldn't quite find the confidence to do the same. "Wow," she says. "You two look messy... Did something happen?"
It takes you a moment to notice the actual concern in her tone. "Something did happen," 5B exclaims, hands on her hips. "Something wonderful."
Like eating the living out of you face, and sucking the soul through your mouth. It's both very exhilarating, and weird. Obviously, 5B has the advantage of probably experiencing this before - it's a very weird feeling, to be jealous of your own past selves - but maybe it's better this way. It doesn't really help the strange mix of joy, and embarrassment though.
Saber turns to you. Unsure. She nods slowly. "... Uh-huh. If you say so. So," she cocks her head, a smirk on her lips. "Did you get what I asked?"
"Naturally," 5B declares, either ignoring, or not noticing Saber's tone. With an exaggerated wave of her hand, the White Boar's head plops onto the ground. "We would not be here if we have not!"
"Huh," Saber says simply, crouching over the head. She pokes at the tusks, green eyes peering at the in curiosity. "You two actually did it," she looks back up at 5B. "Maybe you two aren't as bad as I thought you were."
5B lets out a triumphant noise, hands crossed under her chest. Cute. "Well, what did you expect? I am unparalleled in what I do. Something like this won't even break a sweat."
"Oh? Is that a -"
"Excuse me," you cut in, mustering all of your bravery to turn your head up. Saber gives you a look of irritation. "Can I ask you a question?"
She stares at you for a long moment. "... Sure," she says, begrudgingly. "Guess I owe you that much."
[] ... Why the enmity against YoRHa Androids?
[] What do you need this for?
[] Do you know where you could buy... fabric?
[] Write-in
...
QN: Gah. I feel like I'm trying, and failing to express Not!Nero's voice.
It takes you a moment to notice the actual concern in her tone. "Something did happen," 5B exclaims, hands on her hips. "Something wonderful."
Like eating the living out of you face, and sucking the soul through your mouth. It's both very exhilarating, and weird. Obviously, 5B has the advantage of probably experiencing this before - it's a very weird feeling, to be jealous of your own past selves - but maybe it's better this way. It doesn't really help the strange mix of joy, and embarrassment though.
Saber turns to you. Unsure. She nods slowly. "... Uh-huh. If you say so. So," she cocks her head, a smirk on her lips. "Did you get what I asked?"
"Naturally," 5B declares, either ignoring, or not noticing Saber's tone. With an exaggerated wave of her hand, the White Boar's head plops onto the ground. "We would not be here if we have not!"
"Huh," Saber says simply, crouching over the head. She pokes at the tusks, green eyes peering at the in curiosity. "You two actually did it," she looks back up at 5B. "Maybe you two aren't as bad as I thought you were."
5B lets out a triumphant noise, hands crossed under her chest. Cute. "Well, what did you expect? I am unparalleled in what I do. Something like this won't even break a sweat."
"Oh? Is that a -"
"Excuse me," you cut in, mustering all of your bravery to turn your head up. Saber gives you a look of irritation. "Can I ask you a question?"
She stares at you for a long moment. "... Sure," she says, begrudgingly. "Guess I owe you that much."
[] ... Why the enmity against YoRHa Androids?
[] What do you need this for?
[] Do you know where you could buy... fabric?
[] Write-in
...
QN: Gah. I feel like I'm trying, and failing to express Not!Nero's voice.
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Update VII
SoothingCoffee
Umumumu
- Location
- The Library
[] ... Why the enmity against YoRHa Androids?
///
The moment the question leaves your mouth, you know that you've asked the wrong thing. Or rather, you had an inkling that it's the wrong thing, but now it just confirms it.
Green eyes narrow right at you, sharp as the point of a dagger. "What the fuck is your problem, huh?" she stands up abruptly; bursts of energy like explosions going off inside her body movement. Her shoulders bunched tightly; lips pulled back, teeth bared into a snarl. Everything about her screams aggression. "That why you're doing this, you YoRHa motherfuckers? Just to fucking insult me, that it?!"
"No," you shake your head immediately, grimacing. "I don't - I'm - I just want to know," you explain.
"Yeah?" she cocks her head, sneering, advancing to you. "How about you fuck off -"
A shadow falls over you. Saber stops with a twitch. 5B's exposed back greets you. "Calm down," she says, and you shiver at the tone. Or the lack of one. It's just... wrong. "Whatever it is in you are thinking, stop it. 3H doesn't -"
"Yeah?" Saber cuts her off with a glare. "Well, I don't give a fuck, so how about you fuck off! Ugh," she grimaces, keeping a narrowed eye on you. "Next time, you watch your goddamn mouth, or I'll take that from you," with a growl, she picks up the boar's head by its tusk as though it has no weight at all. She steps aside from 5B. "Fucking backstabbing bastards," you hear her mutter, stomping off from the camp.
You are keenly aware of the stares from around the camp; a slight pause in activity. Oddly, rather than hostility... it's sympathy? Something like that. You sigh, mumbling under your breath: "That could have gone better."
5B huffs, crossing her arms. "What a barbarous woman. Normally I wouldn't mind that kind of thing, but..." green eyes turn to you in concern; lips turning down into a frown. You try not to dig too deeply into her muttering. "Are you fine, 3H?"
You wave off her concern with a smile. "I'm fine. It's... ah," you wince. "I probably shouldn't have asked her that. And we were getting along too..."
"Umumu?" 5B cocks an eyebrow, leaning closer to you; a wide smile on her lips. "You are not planning to add another person into our romance, are you? Because while -"
"Of course not!" you blurt out in shock, feeling heat rising up to your cheeks. What's up with that?! You're not planning that at all! Your eyes fall to the ground. "... You're the only one for me."
"U-umu?!" from the corner of your eyes, you see 5B flinch, as if struck by a blow. "T-three - 3H!" she stammers, her cheeks positively flushed, but her smile's wider than before. "That is quite a deadly statement. In fact, I feel like I am among the clouds by now."
You shift. "... Not in here," you mumble under your breath.
"Hmph," 5B huffed, perhaps realizing the stares now that you've pointed it out. "They just do not understand us. Besides, I believe it to be more important for all the world to witness our love, don't you think?"
"I don't think," you say quickly, looking around hurriedly. Head turns away immediately. Your blush becomes a couple shades darker. "W-well, anyway -"
"Operator 8O to 3H - "
You jump with a tiny squeak. You whirl around, halting halfway through when you realize that the voice comes from inside your head. 5B blinks suddenly, opening her mouth, before clicking it forms into a small 'o'. She nods, closing it shut - as though understanding something that you don't.
"U-um," the female voice stumbles. "S-senpai? Are you - oh," the voice cuts off, and you hear some light shuffling.
Your hands rest over your chest; rubbing the anxiety down. You take the pause to think. 8O. Operator. They're meant to both guide, and keep track of those assigned on the ground, as well as the general situation down here. You're on the ground. "... Hello?" you call out hesitantly.
"A-ah! Sen - I mean, 3H. I'm here for your regularly-scheduled contact!"
"Oh," you take a moment to think. "Everything is going fine down here," though you don't say that it seems a little excessive for you - and 5H? - to get an Operator assigned, considering your current mission is to simply help around. You suppose it pays to be safe, but... you shake your head.
There's a hum; a certain perk in the tone. "That's good news, Senpai. I'm sorry I didn't contact you earlier... um," 8O lets out a sheepish noise. "There was a certain complication, and I was rebooted a little late."
You frown. "Are you okay?"
"Oh, I'm perfectly fine, Senpai! Though I feel like I should be asking you that... it happened again, right?"
You don't need to be a genius to know that 'it' means. "Seems like it, yes. I'm... uh, I'm sorry."
"... Silly Senpai. Why are you apologizing?"
You shuffle uncomfortably. You know why, of course, you just don't know how to put them into words. For a moment, you're about to shrug, before you recall that 8O wouldn't be able to see it. "It feels right. I've probably forgotten a lot of important things about you too."
"Well, it's fine. So is there anything you need of me?"
You open your mouth to say no, before you click it with a shut. Saber's parting words return to you. Backstabbing bastards. That implies that Saber has worked with YoRHa before - that implies that something has gone wrong. Enough so to create such hostility. Enough so to call YoRHa 'backstabbing'. "... Yes, actually. The YoRHa database keeps record on most of all things, right?"
"... Most, yes," she tells you. "But I could search something for you if you want."
"Great," you nod with a smile. "Look up 'Saber' the, uh, android. From the Resistance. Do we have anything about her?"
There's a hum. "Wait a moment, Senpai... ah, here it is! H-huh?"
"What's wrong?"
"Most of the page is classified, Senpai. Looks like you need higher ranked access. What's not classified is basic information. Disposition: brash, and wild. A powerful android. There's... a warning to be careful when approaching her. Apparently from what I could piece out, Saber used to work with us, until... well, she wasn't. You should probably ask the Commander permission if you want to know more. Sorry, Senpai."
You frown. "No, it's alright," you shake your head. "Thank you."
"You're welcome."
There's a click; and you know that the communication has been cut off. You sigh. There are two ways, you think, if you want to go down this path. Either ask the Commander for permission, or... ask Anemone. She's the Leader of the camp, after all, so it's natural for her to know what Saber's problem is. You don't even need details. Just a reason.
Or maybe you shouldn't. It's an invasion of privacy, and Saber has shown a lack of unwillingness to share rather strongly. You sigh again, turning to 5B - you blink. She's frowning at you. "Is something wrong, 5B?"
"I'm not jealous," she denies immediately. And you blink. What? Her thoughtful frown turns into a sagely smile, head nodding in contemplation. "In fact," she murmurs. "I approve of this. Most definitely. 8O is not a bad candidate. Soft in more than a couple ways, and demure; the supposedly perfect 'Housewife' type..."
Well. You pout. Something twinges in your heart; it tells you that you're jealous. What an awful feeling. "I don't plan on doing anything like that," you say, sulking. "I already said that, right?"
"O-oh, I don't mean it like that, 3H," 5B stammers. "I'm just - I simply want you to be happy. Well, happier, 3H. And you know - well, I know that sometimes one is not enough -"
You soften. "I'm already happy enough just being with you, 5B."
That deflates the sail of her ship. "Oh," she sags, despite the fact that her cheeks are flushed red, and her green eyes are staring in joy. "Alright."
"... But," you smile, chuckling. "I want you to be happy too, so I don't mind..."
5B stares at you owlishly for a long moment. Immediately, you feel regret wash over you. And then 5B pouts, and you slump slightly in relief. "If we're to do that, then we need to be both happy, 3H!"
... You can't help but wonder what kind of scum was your previous iterations for something like to be planted inside 5B's head.
[] Talk to the Commander.
[] Talk to Anemone.
[] You probably shouldn't pry into Saber's privacy.
- [] Hunt the Red Machine.
- [] Talk to Popola and Devola. Anemone did say they probably need something.
- [] Talk to Wisteria, the Android who is currently still listening to the jukebox.
- [] Talk to Key. He seems to be contemplating in his lonesome. The Machine-Head-wearing Android is gone.
- [] Talk to Sache. With his legs busted, Anemone suggests to offer him aid. Maybe try to convince him to let you fix them.
- []Talk to Hammer, and - wait, Shield is gone.
///
The moment the question leaves your mouth, you know that you've asked the wrong thing. Or rather, you had an inkling that it's the wrong thing, but now it just confirms it.
Green eyes narrow right at you, sharp as the point of a dagger. "What the fuck is your problem, huh?" she stands up abruptly; bursts of energy like explosions going off inside her body movement. Her shoulders bunched tightly; lips pulled back, teeth bared into a snarl. Everything about her screams aggression. "That why you're doing this, you YoRHa motherfuckers? Just to fucking insult me, that it?!"
"No," you shake your head immediately, grimacing. "I don't - I'm - I just want to know," you explain.
"Yeah?" she cocks her head, sneering, advancing to you. "How about you fuck off -"
A shadow falls over you. Saber stops with a twitch. 5B's exposed back greets you. "Calm down," she says, and you shiver at the tone. Or the lack of one. It's just... wrong. "Whatever it is in you are thinking, stop it. 3H doesn't -"
"Yeah?" Saber cuts her off with a glare. "Well, I don't give a fuck, so how about you fuck off! Ugh," she grimaces, keeping a narrowed eye on you. "Next time, you watch your goddamn mouth, or I'll take that from you," with a growl, she picks up the boar's head by its tusk as though it has no weight at all. She steps aside from 5B. "Fucking backstabbing bastards," you hear her mutter, stomping off from the camp.
You are keenly aware of the stares from around the camp; a slight pause in activity. Oddly, rather than hostility... it's sympathy? Something like that. You sigh, mumbling under your breath: "That could have gone better."
5B huffs, crossing her arms. "What a barbarous woman. Normally I wouldn't mind that kind of thing, but..." green eyes turn to you in concern; lips turning down into a frown. You try not to dig too deeply into her muttering. "Are you fine, 3H?"
You wave off her concern with a smile. "I'm fine. It's... ah," you wince. "I probably shouldn't have asked her that. And we were getting along too..."
"Umumu?" 5B cocks an eyebrow, leaning closer to you; a wide smile on her lips. "You are not planning to add another person into our romance, are you? Because while -"
"Of course not!" you blurt out in shock, feeling heat rising up to your cheeks. What's up with that?! You're not planning that at all! Your eyes fall to the ground. "... You're the only one for me."
"U-umu?!" from the corner of your eyes, you see 5B flinch, as if struck by a blow. "T-three - 3H!" she stammers, her cheeks positively flushed, but her smile's wider than before. "That is quite a deadly statement. In fact, I feel like I am among the clouds by now."
You shift. "... Not in here," you mumble under your breath.
"Hmph," 5B huffed, perhaps realizing the stares now that you've pointed it out. "They just do not understand us. Besides, I believe it to be more important for all the world to witness our love, don't you think?"
"I don't think," you say quickly, looking around hurriedly. Head turns away immediately. Your blush becomes a couple shades darker. "W-well, anyway -"
"Operator 8O to 3H - "
You jump with a tiny squeak. You whirl around, halting halfway through when you realize that the voice comes from inside your head. 5B blinks suddenly, opening her mouth, before clicking it forms into a small 'o'. She nods, closing it shut - as though understanding something that you don't.
"U-um," the female voice stumbles. "S-senpai? Are you - oh," the voice cuts off, and you hear some light shuffling.
Your hands rest over your chest; rubbing the anxiety down. You take the pause to think. 8O. Operator. They're meant to both guide, and keep track of those assigned on the ground, as well as the general situation down here. You're on the ground. "... Hello?" you call out hesitantly.
"A-ah! Sen - I mean, 3H. I'm here for your regularly-scheduled contact!"
"Oh," you take a moment to think. "Everything is going fine down here," though you don't say that it seems a little excessive for you - and 5H? - to get an Operator assigned, considering your current mission is to simply help around. You suppose it pays to be safe, but... you shake your head.
There's a hum; a certain perk in the tone. "That's good news, Senpai. I'm sorry I didn't contact you earlier... um," 8O lets out a sheepish noise. "There was a certain complication, and I was rebooted a little late."
You frown. "Are you okay?"
"Oh, I'm perfectly fine, Senpai! Though I feel like I should be asking you that... it happened again, right?"
You don't need to be a genius to know that 'it' means. "Seems like it, yes. I'm... uh, I'm sorry."
"... Silly Senpai. Why are you apologizing?"
You shuffle uncomfortably. You know why, of course, you just don't know how to put them into words. For a moment, you're about to shrug, before you recall that 8O wouldn't be able to see it. "It feels right. I've probably forgotten a lot of important things about you too."
"Well, it's fine. So is there anything you need of me?"
You open your mouth to say no, before you click it with a shut. Saber's parting words return to you. Backstabbing bastards. That implies that Saber has worked with YoRHa before - that implies that something has gone wrong. Enough so to create such hostility. Enough so to call YoRHa 'backstabbing'. "... Yes, actually. The YoRHa database keeps record on most of all things, right?"
"... Most, yes," she tells you. "But I could search something for you if you want."
"Great," you nod with a smile. "Look up 'Saber' the, uh, android. From the Resistance. Do we have anything about her?"
There's a hum. "Wait a moment, Senpai... ah, here it is! H-huh?"
"What's wrong?"
"Most of the page is classified, Senpai. Looks like you need higher ranked access. What's not classified is basic information. Disposition: brash, and wild. A powerful android. There's... a warning to be careful when approaching her. Apparently from what I could piece out, Saber used to work with us, until... well, she wasn't. You should probably ask the Commander permission if you want to know more. Sorry, Senpai."
You frown. "No, it's alright," you shake your head. "Thank you."
"You're welcome."
There's a click; and you know that the communication has been cut off. You sigh. There are two ways, you think, if you want to go down this path. Either ask the Commander for permission, or... ask Anemone. She's the Leader of the camp, after all, so it's natural for her to know what Saber's problem is. You don't even need details. Just a reason.
Or maybe you shouldn't. It's an invasion of privacy, and Saber has shown a lack of unwillingness to share rather strongly. You sigh again, turning to 5B - you blink. She's frowning at you. "Is something wrong, 5B?"
"I'm not jealous," she denies immediately. And you blink. What? Her thoughtful frown turns into a sagely smile, head nodding in contemplation. "In fact," she murmurs. "I approve of this. Most definitely. 8O is not a bad candidate. Soft in more than a couple ways, and demure; the supposedly perfect 'Housewife' type..."
Well. You pout. Something twinges in your heart; it tells you that you're jealous. What an awful feeling. "I don't plan on doing anything like that," you say, sulking. "I already said that, right?"
"O-oh, I don't mean it like that, 3H," 5B stammers. "I'm just - I simply want you to be happy. Well, happier, 3H. And you know - well, I know that sometimes one is not enough -"
You soften. "I'm already happy enough just being with you, 5B."
That deflates the sail of her ship. "Oh," she sags, despite the fact that her cheeks are flushed red, and her green eyes are staring in joy. "Alright."
"... But," you smile, chuckling. "I want you to be happy too, so I don't mind..."
5B stares at you owlishly for a long moment. Immediately, you feel regret wash over you. And then 5B pouts, and you slump slightly in relief. "If we're to do that, then we need to be both happy, 3H!"
... You can't help but wonder what kind of scum was your previous iterations for something like to be planted inside 5B's head.
[] Talk to the Commander.
[] Talk to Anemone.
[] You probably shouldn't pry into Saber's privacy.
- [] Hunt the Red Machine.
- [] Talk to Popola and Devola. Anemone did say they probably need something.
- [] Talk to Wisteria, the Android who is currently still listening to the jukebox.
- [] Talk to Key. He seems to be contemplating in his lonesome. The Machine-Head-wearing Android is gone.
- [] Talk to Sache. With his legs busted, Anemone suggests to offer him aid. Maybe try to convince him to let you fix them.
- []
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