Girl's Frontline: Wicked Animandum

[Lurkman]

Having seen the destruction these guys are capable of, and the fact that these are just a few stragglers of a much bigger group of troublemakers… you deducted that it may not be the best idea to kick some sense into them. So, after standing up from your seat, you turn around and start heading for the cabin door. At least, the you of this memory did. You and AA-12 watched yourself leaving, and the shotgun watching in… disbelief?

"Hold on… you're just letting these barbarians destroy public property with their bare hands like that?"

"What did you want me to do? Blow my cover on high-speed public transport?" you retorted "I didn't have anyone to bail me out anymore. I had to be careful."

AA-12 looked back at the thugs trashing the train "I get where you're coming from, but it's so… uncivilized…"

"Oh, don't worry. Just keep watching." you remind her as the two of you continue to follow your footsteps through the memory. The you of the past opens the cabin door and walks into the connector, the considerably louder sound of train tracks being traversed filling your ears. The breaking of chairs and loud profanity is fading into the background as you press on to the other cabin. But as you open the door leading to it…

"Alrighty then, what bunch of pathetic mutts is causing trouble here-"

You come face to face with a girl, unsurprisingly higher than you. But you can tell right away from the assortment of police equipment, badges, and the shotgun she's carrying, that she's no ordinary passenger. Then again, you don't see many police officers with skirts, horns poking out of their hats, and… is that a mechanical tail?

"D'awww, lookie at this lil' shortie here~ Did mommy and daddy abandon you?"

She looked down on you with a smile that could bear fangs, complemented by the whole devil aesthetic. She must think she's pretty intimidating, and perhaps quite full of herself too. You stare up at her, tilting your head a little with a questioning look.

"Well, buzz off now. I'm about to make these dogs bark for me, and I bet you'd pee your pants watching. So off you go."

Despite the police badge on her jacket, you are starting to question who the real troublemaker is gonna be here… but you're not sticking around to find out. You do as told and go past her, squeezing past her slightly battered riot shield. Sometimes being so small and thin as you are has its uses.

"Now then… listen up, pitiful passengers! If you don't stop playing with your twinkies and show me your tickets… I'm gonna have to show you what it's like to fly at 300km/h~"

The door behind you closes, and you do not turn back. That whole situation is a whole 'lotta none of your business, and you prefer it that way. A law enforcement doll like her can handle herself, right? Though… What was she doing on a train?

--- memory end ---

"... so that was it." AA-12 remarked, as the memory started to dissipate, and the scenery was once again replaced by your digimind's architecture. "And you do this… every night?"

"Almost every night." you answer. "I'm discovering new things as I go. It's not just memories that have been locked within me."

"What… else is there?"

"Well, for starters… I think it's about time to introduce you all."

For a moment, AA-12 gives you a confused look, before she suddenly feels your hands wrap around her stomach from behind, clutching you in a tight hug. Except it was not you, you were still standing in front of her. Confusion is dominating her face.

However, while Epsilon was usually very happy to be hugging anyone cute, this hug was filled with tears and ugly crying. Tears of joy, but still tears.

E: "Waaah! AA-12! We are so sorry! So so so so so so so sorryyyyy!"

Γ: "Geez, you're gonna soak her coat in your virtual tears, Epsilon…" Gamma emerged from behind. "Beta, help me tear her off, will ya?"

B: "Of course, Gamma."

"A-a-another one…?!" AA-12 stares in befuddlement as all three dummies lay their hands on her.

E: "Nyuuuuuu! She's so soft and smells so niiice! Epsi doesn't wanna let go yeeeet!" resists the ever-persistent Epsilon, even as the other two dummies try to tear her away from the shotgun. It starts pulling at her clothes and pouches, and she seems clearly distressed at what to do with three cuties like you. Meanwhile you just watch, even as a look of terror is directed at you.

"H-H-H-Heather?!"

--- Emerging for air ---

As fun as hanging out with AA-12 in your digimind was, you forgot to mention to her how time consuming memory file decryption could be. The sun was already setting, and Ouroboros and Groza had been driving for a while. To make sure you'd arrive in time, you took shifts driving at night. Whenever the former SF was behind the wheel, another was required to be awake, for she had surprisingly little experience handling vehicles. Somehow, you weren't surprised.

You and AA-12 stayed up for a while. The time that wasn't spent resting was spent chatting, because the two of you actually had quite a bit to chat about. Now that you had nothing to hide anymore, it was… liberating. You could hardly shut yourself up to let Ots-14 have her beauty sleep.

Nobody was quiet when Ouroboros was trying to sleep.

The next day, when the sun was rising and the birds were chirping, the four of you noticed a slight oversight on the shotgun's part.

"So… remember when I said that I just took the first jeep I saw and hauled ass to save you?"

"You didn't check the gas?"

"... I didn't check the gas."

You stare at the nearly empty gas indicator in exasperation. Groza is checking her internal map, but her expression tells you that you've still got quite a way to go still. Ouroboros' inefficient driving wasn't helping…

"So, we're still too far from the city… are there any gas stations still active?"

"... there is one still active, relatively nearby." answered Groza. "Last check was a few weeks ago. Supposedly a good trader spot. Could be our best shot."

"Plot the course then. I'll count the money~"

--- Change for gas ---

You've told the girls to play nice as you dare exit the jeep. The map has indeed led you to a gas station, and an active one, judging by the lights and neon sign. Being the leader of the group, you thought it appropriate to perform the transaction yourself. You filled the tank with gas, the numbers on the station screen rising much faster than those in the city. It seems that gas is more expensive outside the city walls, but nothing you can't pay for with your newly acquired funds.

You then proceed into the station, taking a few extra food supplies - mainly lollipops - before finally arriving at the cashier. You felt his eyes on you ever since you've arrived, but couldn't quite tell his expression due to his mouth mask. The middle aged man stared back as you presented the money that should cover the costs, and kept staring. His eyes darted a few times between you and the jeep, and you could see irritation within his brown eyes.

"... listen here you tin can," he began "If your commander feels so prim and proper to send her dolls in here to pay, tell her to shove it."

"My… commander?"

"You think I cannot see her sitting in that jeep? That uniform's a red flag!"

Red flag… uniform? That reminds you, the disguise you got for Ouroboros… has he seriously mistaken her for a Griffin commander? Now that's efficiency, but not really what you needed right now...

"Griffin has real balls to be showing up here. But for the sake of business, I'll give your commander one chance to apologize. If she doesn't dissolve in the sunlight, that is."

The cashier - and probably the station owner too, judging by his behavior - seemed pretty adamant, although rather rude as well, about meeting your supposed commander. It is a bit of an inconvenient situation, you didn't really want to attract any attention, especially not this close to town. You carefully weigh your options…

Is Ouroboros capable of handling this interaction? He knows you're a doll, but what about the others? There isn't anyone else around, so maybe you could convince him to take a little nap?

[ ] Have faith in Ouroboros' social skills.
[ ] Distract and knock the cashier out.
[ ] Rob the station.
[X] Write-in: Go tell Oero about the situation, give her the cash she needs to pay for the gas and let her talk with the owner. Regardless of what he wants, the gas is already in the tank, so as long as she puts cash on the counter there is nothing else that the cashier can do. Warn her not to threaten him.

 

[Lurkman]

"... Of course. I will be right back right away." You reassure the cashier as you leave to fetch your "commander" as he put it. Honestly, all you see is a cutie in uniform, but it seems humans have different beauty standards…

Hopefully she'll understand your proposition.

--- Spoiler: she did not understand ---

"You want me to WHAT?"
"You want her to what?"

The trio stares at you in bewilderment, especially Ouroboros, whose eyes are alight with shock, disbelief and disgust.

"I don't like it either..." you admit. "But we can't afford any bad rep. That uniform of yours is a double edged sword."

"You made me wear this!" exclaimed the ringleader. "And now you expect me to act as a… l-lowly human and engage in conversation with their kind?!"

"It's not as hard as it sounds. I've been doing it for years." your answer does not seem to fill her with confidence.

"Heather, I hope you are aware that this can backfire terribly." warned Groza. "Should the cashier feel suspicious or threatened…"

"It shouldn't come to that." you reassure, looking back to Ouroboros. "Look, all you need to do is give him the money. The gas is already in the tank, he can do nothing but accept it. Just… try not to threaten him."

The ringleader's eyes dart from you, towards the gas station, then back to you. She is clearly not a fan of this plan, but eventually sighs. "To fall to this level… yuck…"

"You'll live. Regrettably…" commented the shotgun. You'd expect her to sympathize more with Ouroboros' situation, since you can imagine she would also have trouble acting the part of a prim and proper Griffin commander. Either way, now that everyone was in acceptable agreement, the former Sangvis took the commander's hat and placed it on her head, her eyes glancing to the jeep's side mirror to check her appearance.

"So… how does one… act human?"

--- … ---

"G-greeting! Fellow, u-um… citizen!"

Off to a great start, you watch as Ouroboros enters the gas station with relatively much more grace than her mouth could muster in the following moments. You follow in tow, since you're not stupid enough to let her do this on her own.

"Ah," the shopkeeper said. "So the good lady commander finally deigns to grace my establishment with her presence." He did not sound like he thought very highly of the 'good lady commander' at all. "What, too prim and proper to buy the gas yourself? You'd rather have your tin cans roll some change in your name through my doors?"

"P-prim and proper?!"

Uh oh, you saw a twitch on Ouroboros' face. The man's attitude seemed to actually worsen, and no doubt hers is about to decline too. You subtly nudge her side, reminding her to keep her cool.

"Listen here you…! U-um, I mean… listen here to my… ssssss… sssincerest apology…" she forcefully pushed those words out on her tongue and she faked an ugly smile.

"Hmm… doesn't sound very sincere to me."

"Oh I'll pluc…!" another pause, the ringleader grits her teeth. "P… p-please forgive my… unbecoming behavior. Next time I'll… rectify mistakes like this. Properly."

"That's more like it. Seriously, where does Griffin recruit schmucks like you? Is blowing your superiors the only thing you're good at?" he spoke with mockery in his tone. At this point, you can't even discern what this guy's problem is. With that apology out of the way, he has no more ground to stand on.

"..." Ourobors stared back, hiding her hateful gaze, but otherwise remained quiet. Perhaps she's puzzled by his insults, though she could still understand them as insults. You give her a little push, just to remind her that she still needs to hand over the cash. She walks forward, her attempt not to look robotic ending up in awkwardly stiff movements anyway, and she finally places the money on the counter.

"Well then, how graced I am to take your hard earned blowjob money, huh?" he mocked further. Alright, this is pushing it.

"Sir," you began. "I am compelled to remind you that you are disrespecting a Griffin & Kryuger official, on grounds that after my commander's recorded apology, no longer stand. I must ask you to cease this behavior, or a complaint will be issued to the local administrator. It should be noted that a military commander's forwarded matters are rarely ignored or dismissed by the authorities."

The man glares at you with a bitter taste in his mouth, but remains quiet after you added your two cents. After a moment, he swiped the payment off the counter.

"I know that thing is programmed to follow you everywhere, but you better keep it on silent mode next time. Bolt its mouth shut if you have to." he opened the register and confirmed the transaction. And with that, you have no more reason to linger anymore. But as you turn to leave…

"Oh, and I suggest you go fix that hideous bumper of yours, or they're gonna turn you away at the city gates. And I do not wanna see you guys coming back here for repairs."

After his words, your eyes move towards the front bumper of the G&K military jeep, noticing that the front bumper is indeed in rather poor condition. No surprise there, AA-12 did drive it through a wall after all. The two of you turn around to face him again.

"And where can we find a place to fix it?"

The man glared at you once again, but did not answer. It's clear that he wants to hear the words from your "commander's" mouth. The snake's patience is running thin…

"A-and where can we find a place to fix it...?"

"... Luv's Garage, west of the city entrance. Now buzz off."

--- sigh ---

"Stupid… insolent… disrespectful… spineless little…"

Ouroboros was muttering to herself as she was sitting in the seat beside you, crushing the commander's hat in her hands like it's some sort of stress ball. In the front seat were Groza and AA-12, driving you away from the gas station.

"So, how'd it g-"

"Pathetic! Idiotic! Foul mouthed! Backwater muddling…!"

"... what she said." you let her words answer the Shotgun's question.

"Well, considering we heard no gunshots and the gas station hasn't exploded, I take it our acquaintance behaved?" asked Groza from the steering wheel. It seems to have piqued AA-12's interest as well, both dolls curious about Oruoboros' performance.

[ ] "She was the very model of a G&K commander."
[ ] "She was an utter trainwreck."
[ ] "For how much she was seething, she sure took all he was throwing at her."
[ ] "Just… don't let her talk to people."
[X] Write-in: "She held her composure reasonably well, given the circumstances."

The ringleader was too self-absorbed in her muttering to notice your words. Your other companions turned their focus back onto the road, snickering all the while.

"How much further to the city?"

"Not much. We'll be there soon. It might be good to prepare some sort of plan upon arrival though." suggested Groza.

"Good idea." you remarked. "Once we arrive, we'll leave the jeep to be repaired by a local mechanic. While that's being done, I'll go fetch my former colleagues."

"... pft, humans, what use are they to you?" suddenly spoke Ouroboros, joining the conversation. "What if these two you're looking to save aren't worth the air they breathe, like the one at the station just now?"

"Yo, watch it Snake." interjected the shotgun. "If… V says we're going after them, we're going after them."

"Grr… do I get no say in it?"

"You? Absolutely not."

"Alright, both of you, settle down." you interject this time, the banter although amusing, being of no benefit. "I know you've reached your limit for human interaction for today. Besides, these guys are harmless. Dai actually likes dolls, and Mack has a sorta business partner approach with everyone. They're pretty chill."

The ringleader simply crossed her arms and looked away from you, out the window. Though, in the reflection you can see something akin to a pout. "Humans are vile… they only harbour hate for my kind…"

"Aww, don't worry, I think you did pretty good~" you reach up to pat her head. For a moment, nothing happens. But then she has a rather violent outburst and forces your hand away.

"Don't touch me!" she yells. Someone's sensitive about personal space… but as she turns to the window again, you spy her sprouting another, even bigger pout. You best leave it be.

"Subjectivism aside… There's still the question of who to go after first. You said they work at separate locations, right?" Groza asked as she changed gears.

"True. Dai works in an office building near the city center, while Mack works in a hotel near the residential sector." you remarked. "Since you girls don't know what they look like, I'd have to go pick them up personally…"

"Just keep in mind, if Lupara was serious, that hit squad could be mobilizing right now."

"You really think they would strike a populated area in broad daylight?" The shotgun presented a valid concern.

"I dunno, but snipers are always a possibility. T-doll snipers would be even worse, and a lot more probable too…" Ots-14 looked at you through the back mirror. "If you could only rescue one… who would it be?"

A valid question. One you would prefer not to think about, but have to anyway. Ignoring… personal attachment for a moment, both David Kolsurd and Mack Bell are useful individuals. They received basic firearms training in order to assist you and not be a liability on your assignments, and generally took care of the human element required in each of your tasks. Whatever you couldn't do as a doll, they did for you.
That being said… Dai is a bit of a ball park player. He deals with what he sees, takes various different approaches, and likes to think in broad strokes. He's got enough sympathy to go around and enough charisma to get under anyone's skin. You think the girls might like him, or at least he might like them.
As for Mack, he's very eager to please and takes his work very seriously. It's easy to spark a rivalry with the man, though that only fuels his pragmatic mindset. However, he has a knack for getting into trouble, be it because of overconfidence or arrogance. Sometimes it was hard to tell who was keeping watch over who.
With all of that taken into account… Who will you go after first?

[X] Save David Kolsurd first
[ ] Save Mack Bell first

 

[Izzzick]

now for a reason why I shouldn't be allowed a laptop when I'm bored, at least it wasn't a skyrim joke this time, anyway enjoy.


Wildcard

"You're not Human."

Lisa couldn't stop herself from saying that. Standing in front of her was a 'girl' if it could even be called that.

"Oh? And why do you think that?" The Girl replied.

She was trapped, she had basically given away that she was a cape, maybe if she was lucky the Girl wouldn't press her too hard and forget about it. Her hope died when she saw the grin the Girl now had.

'Curious about how you could tell she wasn't human' Her power whispered in her head. 'does not see you as a threat'

"No answer? Or are you trying to think of an excuse?" The Girl said, her grin growing even bigger. " I can give you more time, it won't help though."

Lisa running ideas through her head, she had a handgun holstered, but she didn't want to try and escalate the situation with an unknown cape. "So, you know then, what I am ?"

"Hmm maybe, I'm still not sure." The girl replied. "I'm new around here and could use some help."

Time seemed to pause as Lisa stared at the newcomer, every second felt like hours. She couldn't think of a way out of this, maybe if she had five minutes to think of something or a minute to learn more about the girl, but she didn't.

"You know, in a city full of superpowers, calling someone not human, might be a bad idea." The Girl said with a smug grin. "You never know who you'd upset by saying that."

The Girl leaned down, resting her elbows on the table, her grin never changes. Lisa managed to catch a glimpse of what was hidden under the Girl's poncho, she felt the blood start to drain from her face.

'Three incendiary grenades, two smoke grenades, three magazines, five fragmentation grenades, two flashbang grenades.' Her power helpfully listed off, oh fuck, the Girl had come with enough equipment to start and win a firefight. Very few capes ever carried that much firepower and that was only what she saw in those few seconds, the Girl would probably have more stashed away.

"Please, we're just a shelter here, we don't have anything you'd want" Lisa tried to plead, putting her best effort into acting more scared than she was. She hoped that this would throw the Girl off, maybe even get her to leave.

"We both know that's a lie." The Girl countered. "You have something I need, information."

"Why do you think that?"

"Simple, you act like your in charge here." The Girl stated, "and I doubt a fifteen-year-old would be running this place, without some sort of backing."

'Trying to find out more information about you, believes you are a cape, unsure of what a cape is.' Lisa's power added. 'Considering using force to get her answers'

"Maybe I do have a backer, what of it?" Lisa challenged. "Besides a girl as young as you shouldn't be running around without supervision."

"Oh, we're playing this game." The Girl said, her grin growing larger. "Well we could go on about trying to insult each other until you lose, but we both don't have time for that."

Lisa could tell the Girl was baiting her to keep going, to call her bluff. She knew she shouldn't take it but it was almost too tempting. She hated how smug this girl acted, was she that full of herself that she would just declare herself the winner? It pissed her off.

'Willing to continue is close to figuring out your power.' Lisa also swore it would be bad if someone learned how her power worked and if this Girl could figure it out that quickly she must have a thinker power as well.

"Fine, fine I guess you win then, what are you some sort of precog?" Lisa baited, trying to catch the Girl out.

"A precog? Now that would have been useful in the past but no, I'm not, well at least I don't think I am." The Girl answered. " but now let's get onto business."

This was starting to look like the beginnings of an interesting partnership and Lisa could help but to grin, "Well then, let's get started shall we, I'm Lisa and you are?

"Heather."

'Not her only name, one of many she uses' her power added, unhelpfully.

 

[Lurkman]

Chapter numeral: - - -
Title: Shedding Skin
Date: Weeks following Operation Cube
Location: City of Enmond
Begin playback...

Spoiler: Chaos in plural

A month has passed. A month since activation. A month since air first filled her lungs, and thoughts beyond that limiting simulation started to form. A month can be relatively short or long. For a time to be alive, it may seem rather short. But for a time not playing chess with oneself… more than she could ever hope for.

Ouroboros leaned against the railings on the rooftop, looking off at the buzzing city, the crowded streets below, the floating clouds above. It all felt so… overwhelming, yet orderly. There is so much going on, in every corner of her vision there's movement, it's impossible to keep track of all of it. And yet, this is what a city is supposed to be like, so it's… orderly, in a sense.

Only by looking at this orderly chaos can she feel like the thunderstorm within her has something to relate to. Crashing and thundering, bolts of lightning striking down… and yet, it feels like it's sorting itself out.

"What is that human saying… timely wounds heal?" she mutters.

It sounds weird… and this is not a wound that heals so easily. It's a deep gash, reaching wide into her pride. Piercing the bone of her image, and leaving behind a disease known as humiliation. There are cracks in the chessboard, and it's difficult to keep playing when it's pouring so heavily inside…

But perhaps, here, she can begin to heal. Take deep breaths, find the order within the chaos, tame the storm. No matter the conditions, this is a game of chess she has to win. Against the ever-moving portrait of this city, she will prove the great self-control that will cure this disease.

Now then, first move… how about… white knight to C3, see how they react, then move white pawn to E4-

"HELLO ENMOND CITY AFTERNOOOOON!"

A sudden loud voice, followed by the crash of the roof's entrance door hitting the wall and almost breaking off the hinges, it takes the Ringleader out of her game like a thunderbolt striking the middle of the chessboard. Her pigtails would've stood up if they contained muscles…

"Hmm?~ Oh hey, Snek-chan! So this is where you were!"

The annoying voice, the source of her wounds, saying the obvious…

"Veresk…" she turned around, an expression beyond annoyed or exasperated, grey eyes piercing. "Come to throw pebbles? Yank the chain of our debt?"

The short T-doll that has just arrived, gazing back with green eyes, gloved hands formed into fists before her chin. "Ohoho?~ Well, if you think of me that way… hm, nono, I'm not into slave play… well, most of me isn't~" After exactly one second of contemplating those uninhibited words Ouroboros wishes she didn't hear, the short doll winked. "You sure know how to provoke some thoughts, Snek-chan!"

"Stop. Calling me. That." every word was accompanied with restrained volume in her voice. No need for the many humans below to hear her distress. "What do you want? You're behaving oddly…"

"O-oh, I dunno what you're talking about…" Veresk connects her hands behind her back, leaning forward in an oh so innocent manner, one foot before the other with each step she got closer. She seemed especially… lively today. Yet it did not seem like it wasn't her… just how can her behavior bewilder her so?

"Better question actually, what are you doing here? Tell me tell me!"

"M-me?!" she stuttered. How would she respond to that question? She would usually pride herself on a victorious mental battle of chess, but all the pieces are scattered now, there is nothing to brag about here!

"I-I was… um… surveying our current location!"

"Oho~ Really?"

"Yes! The, um... flank could get stormed if it is not taken into account, and there is no knight guarding the west, and there are too few pawns between the entrance and the queen and-"

"Ooh, we talking chess terms again? That is sooo you! Hey, hey, what does it mean to push a squire to D5?"

"... you… y-you move the squire to D5…"

"Oooooh… now that I think about it, that does make a lot of sense!"

Ouroboros looks at the cheerful lilac haired doll with confusion and exasperation. Just what is happening? It's like she's talking without inhibition, speaking purely based on impulse… wait a minute…

"... Epsilon?"

"Uh-oh, my secret's out~" she feigned defeat, tauntingly. "Had you fooled, didn't I?"

"Veresk said she was finally getting dummy links… but I wasn't expecting her to allow her fragments this much leisure…"

"Oh, I don't think she got to that yet. She was doing this boring briefing and then I realized like, hey, we're back in Enmond! Talk about a homecoming!"

The dummy doll was… too cheery for her tastes. Even when Veresk was pulling that esteemed kouhai persona, it didn't get as bad as this. Inhibition truly is the greatest invention…

"... so that's it? You ran up here for… a feeling of familiarity?"

"Sure, if that's how you wanna describe it. I didn't really think about it, I just couldn't wait to breathe the city air and gaze upon the buzzing streets again."

"The buzzing streets, huh…" the chaos she was trying to relate to just minutes ago? How fitting that it would catch the attention of such a whirlwind of emotion. She watched the short doll skip her way towards the railing, looking at the streets below. Sounds and gasps of awe escaped her mouth, and the ringleader just rolled her eyes. "Can't you go satisfy that impulsive nature of yours somewhere else? I was rather enjoying the peace and quiet…"

"Huh? But why? Don't you enjoy my companionship?"

"Pfft, as if!" she hissed. "You're like a thorn in my side."

But instead of looking hurt or offended, the dummy… began to laugh? She was giggling like a little schoolgirl… just what's so damn funny?!

"Hehe, I see… Oreo has gone into tsun-mode again!"

"Just what even is that word? It's an insult, isn't it?!"

"Oh dear, you're steaming like a kettle already~ But I know just the cure for such a prideful heart!" she turned towards the considerably taller doll, her hands outstretched, fingers moving in a frightening motion… "It's cuddle-time!"

"W-wha…?!" Ourorobos gave a look of confusion, and when realization set in, she began backing away as the doll approached. "Nononono! S-stay away, you fiend!"

"Not fiend, friend! Frieeend~"

Her eyes looked terrifying, her expression so... frighteningly joyous. She has to get away! Or she'll-

It was in that moment, being so fixated on the dummy doll trying to violate her personal space that Ouroboros tripped as she was backing up, the world moving in a flash. The last thing she registered was a sly smile on the doll's face, before a flurry of movements later, she felt… warmth?

Not the feeling she expected, considering she was falling towards the cold floor. It was like she was caught by something, a small frame engulfing her… oh boy, does she dare open her eyes?

"Hehe, caught'ya~"

Damn it, it's as she feared… peeking one eye open, she noticed the lilac hue pressed into her chest, a tight ring of arms around her that stopped her fall… she is, indeed, being hugged by Epsilon. Several steps were skipped, specifically Ouroboros' struggle. She would never let it even get to this point, but now that it's like this… it surely is a little too late to start fighting it now, is it?

"For a cold blooded creature, you sure are warm~"

"S-shut up…" >.>

What is this feeling, where she was subconsciously flooded with excuses to not resist it completely? It's just a dumb hug, from an impulsive fragment of an already insufferable doll. Part of the Ringleader wants to grab her by the shoulders and fling the witch off this rooftop. She's already halfway there, her arms laying on her little, light frame. And yet there's those excuses again… she knows it's subconscious, but what possible benefit could this hug bring her?

"You're still so tense… you really needed a hug, huh?"

"D-did not! Unhand me you…!"

"But you wouldn't want that, would you now? Tsun-tsun-tsuuuun~~"

"Seriously, what does that even mean…"

Thoughts picked up in a whirlwind within her, and the kettle really started to steam now. This is humiliating! This is condescending! This is embarrassing! … embarrassing?

Beep, beep, beep…

"Uh-oh, seems they've noticed my absence…" voiced the dummy Epsilon, and just as quickly as the hug began, she broke it off. She skipped off towards the door, and gave one last look to her unofficial cuddle victim. "Hope you enjoyed that, Oreo~" And with a wink, she disappeared.

The former SF was left standing there, the warms she felt just moments ago slowly dissipating. It was like those small arms were still there, until the warmth was gone. It left her with a sense of… longing? Longing for what…?

"... AAAAARGH!"

She stomped her feet and hit the fence in anger. She let her get into her head again! How stupid that she let such thoughts persist, that she entertained the idea of hugs and this kind of physical contact! Is that doll trying to corrupt her?!

Alas, such a fit of rage won't help. Even worse, it is unbecoming of her. As much self control as it takes, she took a deep breath, gripped the railing tightly enough to leave her hand marks, and then… let go. Just like that… back where she was before. She was alone again, after all. The chaos of the city, and the chaos within her. But… it felt like there was still something else. A new addition. Something that has been imprinted within her…

She sits behind that broken mental chessboard again, but at least the pieces are all there. Nothing seems different at first. The storm is still there, the ferocious world order is still her opponent, but it's like… she's not alone? She turns around, and there's no-one there. But it feels like… they're on her side, and they've got her back. Ignoring the circumstances that led up to this, the humiliating defeats she suffered, the insults she had to endure, the characters she had to tolerate…

This… isn't such a bad feeling. Well then, where was she…

Ah, of course. White knight to C3…

 

[Lurkman]

"David. If we attract attention, it might be hard to stay unnoticed in such a busy area, so it's best to get there before that happens. If we run into trouble there, there should be less eyes looking at us going after Mack afterwards." you explain.

"It's your decision. Being able to stay cool headed when lives are at stake is an admirable trait." said the assault rifle.

"My, Groza, what a charmer~"

"But, hiding stress under a smug exterior… a little less so."

You let out a little laugh. Nothing wrong with some passive smugness, in fact, it's something to be proud of.

"If you two are done praising each other…" began AA-12. Right, there's still the road ahead to traverse.

--- The City of Enmond ---

"What's the game plan once we arrive?"

"The gas station jerk - oh, sorry, I meant clerk - mentioned a place called Luv's Garage. We'll leave the jeep to be repaired there, maybe change license plates, while I take a cab to Dai's location. One of you will come with me."

"We gonna pull out the totally convincing G&K commander play again?"

"Please don't…"

"No need. Just stay in the jeep and try not to get noticed. I'll handle the rest."

That was the plan as you passed the outer walls, entered the city, and made your way towards the aforementioned garage. Being here again after all this time, the streets didn't look all that different. There's still that old grey tone to every building, sidewalks populated with the fortunate and less fortunate, that bleak cloudy sky like it's gonna rain any second but it won't… welcome to Enmond.

Finding the first destination on your agenda wasn't too difficult, the directions you were given were accurate enough. The building had a large neon sign saying "Luvenstadt Garage & Services" but only the letters "Luvs Garage" were actually illuminated, so you assumed that's the source of the nickname. Parking the vehicle nearby, you step out of the vehicle and enter the establishment.

It didn't seem like a particularly busy day for the garage, some vehicles sitting inside but no actual customers. The interior looked like what one would expect, pretty much. Walls lined with tools, cabinets on wheels housing even more tools, power cables spread left and right… all in all, you've seen worse. It was awfully quiet too, and you wondered where you'd find the owner or one of their employees. But your keen T-doll sense picked up on cracking of a wrench, and you followed the noise. You finally found a living soul within this dim building, lying on their back beneath a particularly big truck.

"Excuse me, are you the owner?"

"That depends." she speaks, still not emerging from under the mechanical beast as she tinkered with its metallic insides. "You a customer, inspector, or another hot headed backstreet kid lookin' for a fight?"

"Customer."

"Ah~" finally, the clang of a wrench signifies that she dropped her tool, and finally moved to emerge from the shadows. Her jeans were just as stained as her tank top, but at least her face was better off, with only a few dark spots. Her short orange hair was miraculously clean, though a few strands were slipping out of that tiny ponytail. She stood up and stretched, then immediately took a nearby kerchief to clean some of her stains. "Well then, ya need something fixed? Tuned? Replaced? Or-"

It was then that she actually took a good look at you. A moment of realization struck across her similarly orange eyes, and you're not quite sure what it was that she noticed at first. "Oh…" after the pause, she continued to wipe her hands. "Sorry, I couldn't tell right away from the voice. So, got a vehicle here, or you lookin' for something regarding your own frame?"

"Hm? My frame?" you ask.

God, not again…

"Yeah, as in, you, the doll. Oh, don't look so surprised." she nonchalantly threw the kerchief on a table to her side. "When you're in the biz' as long as I am, you pick up on the telltale signs that differentiate people from dolls. My ol' pa called it a gift, though he said that 'bout pretty much everything."

Once again, your cover is blown. Just how easy is it to tell you're a doll these days? Or have you just run into the worst people to run into? First a jerk that notices the uniform, and now a mechani-

"Wait a minute, you can modify T-dolls?"

"Well, yeah. Got a workstation and everything. The sign above the roof does say Garage & Services, after all."

"Yeah, that part of the sign wasn't glowing, sadly."

"... really? Thought I fixed that…" she scratched the back of her head, but otherwise didn't seem to have an actual problem with you being a doll. But it is still too soon to tell if it's gonna be a problem for you though. "Well, you ain't gonna lose rust standing there. No need to call your owner or anything, they just need to show up later for the paperwork."

"... I'll make sure he'll be here." you reassure her. Well, one of them at least. "I've got a jeep that's a little banged up. Might have to replace the front bumper."

"That bad, huh?" she asked, moving towards a cabinet and arranging some tools. Screwdrivers and other gadgets swung around in pouches hanging from her belt as she walked. "What'd you do, drive it through a wall?"

"My friend did."

Her motions stopped, turning to look at you with slight disbelief in her eyes. "No shit?"

"Well, you know how a girl can act when she spends too much time away from her beloved~" you chuckle, and after a while she chuckles along.

"Hah, no need to tell me twice. Well, I have no pressing orders right now, so I can get right to it if you want."

"That'd be real swell of you. I'll leave two of my associates here along with the jeep, if you don't mind. Refer to them if you have any questions."

"Eeeeh… as long as they can keep the noise down. Guess the waiting couch will finally get some use." she pointed behind her towards… nothing in particular. Probably meant a backroom or something. "Who are you guys anyway? You don't seem like a local model…"

"I'm afraid I'm not at liberty to say. Client confidentiality, all that jazz."

"I get it, don't worry about it. A customer's a customer. Hell, I prefer some change around here every once in a while…" she shrugged, not pressing you any further.

"Well then, I'll leave it in your hands, miss…"

"Just call me Luv."

"... Luv?"

"Blame my pa' for naming me when he was well into his eleventh drink." she said nonchalantly, like she had to explain this curiosity to customers every second day of the week.

And here you thought T-dolls got the short end of the stick when it came to names. Humans sure had weird stuff to call the things they love.

You gave a farewell to the orange haired mechanic as you exited the garage and came back to the jeep. You explained the situation to your companions, as well as Luv's keen eye when it comes to their robotic kind. Ouroboros and AA-12 looked skeptical, while Groza seemed intrigued.

"Will she be able to notice I'm a Sangvis model?"

"Not sure, but that shouldn't be a big deal anyway. It's not like SF has remote control over models they've sold before the uprising…"

"..."

"... right?"

"O-obviously!"

You were skeptical of Ouroboros' response, but she is probably just lying because she doesn't know, not because S.F. actually broke the law and has total remote control of all their products… hopefully…

"Anyway. Since we've already made it to this point, it's time for you to take one of us and go save that Kolsurd fellow of yours." voiced Groza. Indeed, it is about high time for that.

The main problem your choice will have to overcome is the avoidance of attention. You will already have to leave a majority of your gear in the jeep if you want to traverse the public space without inciting a panic. And so will the doll you're taking along. That means Groza will have to drag her great weapon case along, which might allow her to keep the most firepower hidden, but not very fast on the draw especially indoors. AA-12 would have to leave her shields behind and hide her gun under her hoodie, not to mention lose some of those big magazines. And lastly, Ouroboros would have to leave her heavy ordnance launchers, which are her main source of offense. But perhaps by using her G&K uniform, she could disguise at least one of them as a package or service drone…

[X] Take Ots-14
[ ] Take AA-12
[ ] Take Ouroboros
[ ] Go alone

--- His New Life ---

"Hello, welcome to Enmond Real Estate Industries. How may I help?"

The receptionist presented a visibly strained smile as she looked down at you, probably thinking you're as young as you look.

"I have an appointment with one of your employees. Is Mister Kolsurd in today?"

"One moment…" she checked the computer on her desk and tapped the screen a few times, outside of your vision. You were tapping your foot all the while… wait, why are you doing that?

"Ah, yes, Mister Kolsurd should currently be in his office. 11th floor, take the left corridor from the lift, then turn right at the end. Second door on the left."

"Thank you." without wasting any more time on politeness, you turn towards the elevators and approach the one heading up. All the people around you fade into the background as you focus on your objective. You press the button to call it… it takes a while… you press it again, and again… there, finally. How slow can these things be?

Finally inside the elevator, along with your companion in tow, you feel the shift in gravity as you're taken up to the desired floor. You take a deep breath… maybe you're rushing things? Can things be rushed when a life is at stake? Maybe not, but it's not like you can wait faster for this elevator to get up… at least you can think about how to approach him when you finally get there. He will definitely remember you, no way he won't. But knowing the contractor, he might already be in their crosshairs. Getting him away from here as soon as possible might be the best course of action, but any sudden movements and bullets might start flying before you even know where from. Maybe letting the enemy think he's just going for a coffee break instead of escaping the premises is the better option to avoid the spilling of blood and new coverage of an incident you'd be involved in.

[ ] Approach him calmly, explain the situation subtly so you may escape without notice.
[ ] Approach him hurriedly, get him out of the danger zone even if it may cause a scene.
[X] Write-in: Act as if you were a delivery service Doll. Calmly approach him and tell him he has a private voice message needing a response to be heard without witnesses as part of the senders request.

 

[Lurkman]

"Hey, are you okay?"

You were snapped out of your thoughts by Groza, who's standing with you in the lonely elevator. She's got her weapon case with her, which thankfully doesn't look like a weapon case. Nobody should question it until you've got Dai out of here… hopefully.

"Yeah, I'm fine." you reply. Not time to let your mask slip.

"Well then, I'll keep watch outside of his office while you convince him to leave, as planned."

"Keep me posted on any suspicious personnel. Security might be armed and against us, worse if they were bribed."

"I hope you've got a less violent plan of escape planned than shooting our way out of here."

She looked down at you, but you countered her gaze with a smug smile. "I'll try to keep it quiet, but no promises."

With the ring of a bell, the elevator doors slid open. You and Ots-14 were greeted by a low populated hallway. You remember the direction that the secretary gave you and turn left. You pass office workers and men in suits on your way, seeing nothing out of the ordinary yet. But they seemed to find you to be out of the ordinary, as a few pairs of eyes followed you for a couple of steps. Or rather, they were following Groza. You suppose you can't blame them. You would've hired her for those legs alone anyway.

You took another turn, to the right this time. On the other side of the corridor you saw a security guard, but thankfully you didn't have to go his way. You did take this chance to check their equipment though: a baton, a stun gun, and a service pistol… midtown security alright.

Second door on the left, this is it. You look at the name plague, and it really does say David Kolsurd. You take a deep breath, exchange gazes with Groza, who nods towards you. Time for a reunion you never expected to have…

You twist the door handle and walk inside. Within is a small, but well lit office, standard issue company made. A desk, file cabinets, chairs. And of course, the owner of this tiny workspace himself. Without looking up from his papers, he addresses you.

"Since you just walked in here without knocking, I'm assuming you're one of my clients. In which case I'm gonna have to ask you to wait, I'm in the middle of a crackdown…"

He sounds pretty much the same. His green eyes were too focused on the texts before him to really get a look at you. His dark brown hair was still tied into a ponytail, with loose strands on the sides. Only thing that seemed different was that he had light facial hair. Signs of stress? You closed the door behind you, planning to move in and take a seat like a client, but then you noticed… the huge ass window right behind him. If there's any sniper setting up there, it's gonna be a free shooting gallery set on easy mode. You don't have time to play catch up.

"Special delivery for a 'David Kolsurd', courtesy of Columba company. I'm gonna need you to sign, sir."

Upon hearing your voice, his motions stopped. Slowly, he raised his eyes, and a look of disbelief found itself on his face as he gazed upon you for the first time in two years.

"... Heather?" he asks, his mind dropping everything else at the moment. "I-I can't believe this. What are you-"

He stops himself, seeing your serious expression. You want to smile back at him, but not now. Now you need to communicate the danger to him, like you did many times before when you were working together. For a moment he looks puzzled, but then he seems to catch on.

"... trouble?" he asks in a quiet voice. You nod.

"Don't turn around." you tell him, just as quietly. He almost does, but stays his eyes. As long as this looks like an actual delivery, the sniper won't shoot him in front of a witness. Just gotta let the sniper believe his game isn't up and that the target will return. "The package is just outside. If you'd please, sir."

"... sure, of course." he replies, calm as ever, putting on a mental mask of his own. He stands up from his desk, grabbing his phone and a pen. Without glancing at the window, he walks around the desk and towards you. Nice and easy, once he's past the door he should be out of immediate danger. But just before he reaches the door you've begun to open, he took his coat. Damn it, won't that look too suspicious?

Finally you're walking through the door frame, but then you noticed a bright shine, creeping on the corner of your vision. Looking back, you see a bright flash of light through the window, and you know that you have to act. In a quick movement, you push David stumbling into the hallway and shut the door as fast as you can. What follows is the muffled sound of broken glass, and a hole in the door just above your head. A close miss.

"Are you alright, sir?" you spare no time for a sigh as you offer a hand to the disoriented man of the hour, lying on the ground. "That coat better be worth it." He gives you an odd look, but plays along.

"Yeah… just lost my balance, is all." he takes your hand and stands back up. What few people were around seemed to be fooled by your play, as they didn't pay it much mind. You then turn to Groza, who was standing by the whole time.

"How's our route?"
"A guard just took position at the elevators. Doubt it's a coincidence."

You clicked your tongue. Sure would've been faster that way. You turn back to David, who has noticed your little hush hush with Groza.

"Friend of yours?"
"I'll introduce you two soon enough. Now though, which way to the stairs?"
"Right down this hall. Follow me."

David takes the lead now, taking the two of you down the opposite end of the hall. He's keeping his right hand hidden under his folded coat, while he keeps the index finger of his left hand pressed against the side of his ear, pretending to be calling someone. That way he looks a little less suspicious or approachable leading two well dressed ladies through the halls. Eventually, you reach the fire escape stairs. Simple one-way doors, once you're past them you can only go down. There's a light echo as they close behind you.

"How long has it been… 2 years?" David talks, rather casually even as you're hurrying down the endless looking staircases, mocking you with their numbers. "No calls, no letters, nothing, and suddenly you show up, and now there's a hole in my office door…" he chuckled. "Guess the delivery job didn't go as planned?"

"I'm surprised you caught on so quickly. I was wondering if you'd even recognize me."

"Smug face like that? Sticks with you for a lifetime." He makes you chuckle. "Besides, I somehow figured this day would come. Having broken the code of conduct and all."

"Like giving a doll independence?"

"Knew it would bite me in the ass someday… but hey, it was worth it to see you again." he chuckled again. "Anyway, how have you been? I like what you've done with your hair."

"... we can play catchup later. Our ride is parked out back, we'll get you somewhere safe."

"You've got a ride? Sounds like you've been moving up in the world."

[ ] "Up is a… relative term."
[ ] "Your office floor is the highest I've been in the last two years. No offense."
[ ] "Totally. I've got a bodyguard, an escort, a pet snake, everything a girl could ask for~"
[ ] Write-in

Finally reaching the lower floors, Dai seemed to be a bit out of breath, but the final push door was in sight. David skipped the last few steps, aiming to open it. Perhaps he could even lead you to a back exit for a faster getaway. However, as you approached, the door opened from the other side first.

A guard walks in, security vest and all. Not only that, but the patch on his shoulder suggested that he's in charge of security. The buzz cut and black shades he had on just seemed stereotypical at that point. David stopped dead in his tracks, and the two stared each other down. You stood behind him.

"... Hey Kolsurd."

"... Hey Jerry."

The two shared a five second long silence.

"Checking the halls for smokers again?"

"... guess you could say that." the man named Jerry replied, taking a step forward. David doesn't budge. "Going somewhere? Your shift isn't over yet."

"Ah, yeah… got some special clients today, as you can see." he motioned behind him with his thumb, pointing at you and Groza. "Elevator was out, and they insisted on seeing the venue themselves, so… yeah."

"Uh-huh." it was hard to read any sort of expression from his face… Why's he wearing sunglasses indoors anyway? "Well, unfortunately, you won't be going anywhere. Boss called a staff meeting."

David shrugged, "I wasn't notified."

"I'm notifying you." his voice became stern, more imposing. They exchanged stares again. You noticed the slight movement of Jerry's right hand towards his belt.

"... fine." David slumps his shoulders in defeat, about to turn around. "Oh, by the way, here's the five bucks I owe you."

"What? You don't owe me any-"

ZAAAAAAAAAP!

His voice broke off into a shaky, strained yell as David revealed to be holding a taser under his coat, slamming the thing into the guard's side. During the aftershock, David grabbed his head and smashed it against the stairwell railing. He didn't even get to draw his gun before he hit the ground, limp as a hot potato. David panted for a moment, before putting the taser away.

"I do now." he crouches down and picks up his gun from his holster, but otherwise just leaves him laying there, unconscious. "We better stay cautious. He's not the only corrupt guard in this building."

"You seem quite capable for a former delivery boy." voiced Groza as she placed her case on the ground, opening it to extract her firearm. You also pulled out your own.

"Hah, has Heather been telling stories about me? Nothing embarrassing I hope."

"Only that you like to bicker."

"Eh... guilty as charged." he positioned himself next to the door, pistol at the ready. You are glad to see he hasn't forgotten his firearms training after leaving Columba.

You hear the click of Ots-14's case behind you, and she stands up with her namesake firmly in her hands again. Being a relatively quiet rifle, it would be best to let her take point. You just hope there won't be any use for that grenade launcher attachment, as magnificent it would be, it'd attract too much attention. She takes position on the other side of the door. "I advise you to stand behind us, mister Kolsurd. We'll escort you."

"How considerate of you, miss…?"

"Ots-14, but as of the occasion, you may call me Groza."

"A T-doll? Figures. You're quite… uh… one second though, we better focus on getting out of here." he clears his throat, avoiding her gaze for a moment. Smooth one, Dai…

They're just waiting on you now. You're about to move over, but you bump into the still unconscious security chief lying on the floor. He's still out cold, but noticed him mumble and twitch. How long is he going to be napping here… and how long until he gets into your way again? Maybe you should leave a message for the contractor, one written in blood.

[ ] Kill the guard.
[ ] Leave the guard be.
[ ] Tell David to leave the gun he took.

"Ready when you are, Heather."

 

[Lurkman]

For being hunted, pursued and harassed like you are by this so-called contractor, you have only one punishment fit for these goons. An unimaginable cruelty, one they shall remember for the rest of their lives, should they not end them prematurely in shame afterwards.

"... hey, Heather, you ready? We better get-"

David turns around to check on your readiness, but he did not expect to witness such a merciless display of cruelty. You were just leaving the finishing touches with your black marker of justice, drawing the final wisker on the poor unconscious guard's face. It was complimented by a black eye you also drew on, or was it real? He'll have to find out once he washes it off… if he figures out how to remove super-permanent marker stains~

Not only that, but you also snatched the sunglasses that were coincidentally lying on the ground with absolutely no relation to the unconscious man next to them. Another brilliant disguise, they'd never see this coming.

"... glad to see you haven't lost your sense of humor." David simply chuckles, flashing a smile devoid of the stress that would usually come with the situation. Indeed, it was like old times. Meanwhile, Groza just shook her head.

"Squad leader, your orders please?"

"Yep, sure." you stash away the marker and took David's position at the door. You nod to Groza, who's opposite of you. "We breach on my signal. David will direct us to the back exit, then we get to the escape vehicle. The sniper will definitely have eyes on the exits, so I'll draw their fire once we get outside."

"Hm… sound plan."

"Of course it is. Ready?"

Groza raises her rifle, and that's all the confirmation you need. You count down from 3, and on 1 you burst through the doors. You find yourself in a hallway on the ground level, thankfully away from the lobby where a lot of civilians were. It looked pretty clear at first, until…

"Movement at 2:25."

Your eyes snap towards the angle pointed out by Groza over Zener, and you notice the movement too, behind a stone pillar. You let your partner handle him, as you're pretty sure this ambush won't be just one guy.

"We can see you guys, you know. Just walk away and-"

At your warning, walk they did, but not away. The one who's position you already knew, and one further down the hall behind a water dispenser, peeked over their covers with their weapons raised. So much for hoping they're only scared civies.

You and Groza do not hesitate to make your guns sing before they can, precise shots hitting the security guards square into their chests. Groza's fire was relatively quiet, but yours was loud. It's safe to assume that the building is now fully alerted.

"Now we'll have more than just the corrupt ones after us. Let's hurry. Which way, Dai?"

"End of the hall, to the right." He answered your question. You hasten your steps, weapons raised. David also keeps the pistol he looted raised, covering the rear. He did make a passive glance at the two guards you shot down. He frowns. "We should probably call an ambulance. Doubt whoever hired these guys cared enough to call one."

[ ] "Yeah, go ahead."
[ ] "Don't. They're not worth it."
[X] "Do whatever you want."
[ ] Write-in

David pulled out his phone, but nobody was stopping. If these guys really were still alive, better to get away as soon as possible. You reach the exit door, and take up a breaching position like last time.

"Dai, what's the cover like out there?"

"Not much stuff to hide behind, I'm afraid. Most employees park their cars up front. Avoiding sniper fire's gonna be tricky."

You compare the offered information with what you saw when you arrived earlier. You got here by cab, since you had to leave the jeep you stole at Luv's Garage. Thankfully, you had a ripe selection of getaway vehicles all around you, especially the oh so convenient rent-a-cars that you can find around most corners of the mid-city. Only you don't need an app on a phone, all you need is your E-war module and the wheels start turning by themselves.

Still, you're in a tight spot, and you're afraid you might be under-equipped for the task. You've got no smoke grenades to cover your escape, and you can't suppress the sniper if you've got no idea where it's coming from. For all you know, they could be on a skyscraper on the other end of the district.

At least AA-12 could've used her shields, or even Ouroboros could provide cover with her pods. And Benelli's wings are currently sitting in the jeep, still plagued with malware. As you look at Groza, you realize that heroic grenade launcher might've clouded your judgement. Along with those long legs.

"You can control that car remotely, right?" Groza asks, to which you nod.

"Yeah, but I need to see where it's going. So I'll get out there, find some cover to safely drive the car closer, and then you guys get in."

"And then I'll take the wheel and pick you up."

"And I'll… sit in the back and be useless." voiced David. Clearly he's not used to being the center target of an operation.

"Just stay alive, and you might get to be moral support." you chuckle, then turn back to Groza. "Keep him safe, alright?"

"You have my word."

"Alright then. 3… 2… 1…!"

Groza kicks open the door, and you rush out into the sunlight. Immediately you're shot upon, but you're a little too quick for the unsuspecting human assailants. The parking lot doesn't have many cars parked, and the closest ones are being used as cover by the enemy, 4 of them. So unless they're open to sharing, you must take one out before sliding in. And you pick one volunteer right off the bat.

You remember the general direction of the sniper, and rush for the closest car in reach. Jumping, you slide over the hood, and your knees ram right into the guard that was hiding behind it. As he staggers back, you drop to the ground and shoot up. A three round burst: chest, shoulder and neck. He shouldn't be getting up again.

"Give it up!" shouts the other one from a cover further away, his bullets grazing the hood you just slid off of. "We've got you surrounded, three to one!"

You stay where you are, catching your breath. They shouldn't advance on you as long as you return suppressive fire every now and again. Instead, you look towards the other end of the parking lot, where the rent-a-car is located. You reached out with your digimind, and it's front lights lit up, along with the rumble of its engine. It's weird to shift the gears without touching anything yourself, but it works, and it is now moving forward. But the constant ringing of bullets was getting a little distracting…

"Groza, can you get an angle on any of them from the doorway?" you ask through the Zener network.
"Negative, as I cannot peek far out enough without exposing myself to the sniper. However, I could shoot a grenade into the general vicinity."
"W-wait, you can't do that!" interjected David. "The second explosives get involved, the city will mobilize a lot more than regular law enforcement. We won't get away if they'll send choppers after us!"
You click your tongue. "He's right, this can't escalate beyond a shootout. Avoid using explosives for now…" you keep thinking though, looking around. "... wait for an opening, shoot when I force them to move."

You lie down on the ground and roll to the side. The barrel of your gun now sees under the vehicle you cover behind, and under theirs as well. One of them clearly isn't very careful with his footing, so you're sure he won't miss it.

BANG!

The round embeds itself into her foot, and he screams out, falling down. The rest of his body, as well as his head, are now also in your line of fire. But you stay clear of the trigger for now, and wait for it…

"Mathews!" called out one of the others, running out of his cover to rush to his buddy's side.
Meanwhile, the third tried to stop him. "Bobby! Don't!"

But just as he left cover, a round more silent than others pierced his lung and arm, taking him out. At that moment, you finished off your target as well, sending a bullet crashing through his skull. If Groza could see, you'd give her a thumbs up for a good tag team, but there is no time to celebrate. Another round was sent your way, and this one pierced the car doors just above you. The sniper has figured out where you are, and missed just by a few inches. Seems they overestimated your height. You roll to the side, back to the car's front, putting an entire engine between you and the sniper instead of just a few flimsy plates of metal.

"Heads up Groza, I'll send the car crashing into the last guy. Then you guys rush in."
"Affirmative."

You feel the sniper shoot at your cover again. This time they hit the tires, lowering the car's overall profile and making you have to duck more. They really are trying quite hard to nail you… must be quite a specialist behind the trigger.

You look back towards the car you control, revving the engine. None of them seem to have noticed its approach, and now it's close enough for a sneak attack. So you accelerate it forwards with your mental control and send it flying into the enemy.

"AAAAAH!" he screamed before the collision, which hopefully put him out of the fight for long enough. You pull the car back just a bit, placing it right before the entrance. You give Groza the all clear, and then take a deep breath.

There's just one last thing left to do before you can haul ass out of here, and that is to distract that sniper. So you turn towards the middle of the parking lot, where the largest amount of cars is parked, and start running. While you do, you make a little gesture to really attract their attention.

[ ] You flip them the bird.
[X] You make a heart symbol.
[ ] You make a "call me" gesture.
[ ] Write-in

Every cover you run past receives at least one bullet that was meant for you. There are moments where you feel the whirlwind of missed shots graze you by. You are working your SMG agility to the limit, and if you were to be in the open for more than 2 seconds you'd definitely take a hit. Just how are they so accurate?

"V, get in!"

Like aid from above, you hear Groza calling out to you as the escape vehicle races towards you. But it's showing no signs of stopping, and you notice the side door is open… and here you thought you had the crazy ideas. But having clearly no other option, you break off into a final spring, calculating where the car is going to be and when you'll need to jump. 7 seconds… 5 seconds… 3 seconds…

But just as you are about to jump, it seems your luck has run out. A sharp pain rips your voice out as a bullet pierces through your right leg, turning your would-be jump into a pitiful stumble. No way you can keep running on it, yet alone stand, but you already have too much velocity. You're prepared to roll and slide on the rough ground like a ridgid bowling ball, if you won't receive another round before you grind to a halt.

What you did not expect was the sudden sound of tires screeching, and the sight of your escape vehicle breaking into a drift, aligned perfectly to scoop you up. Before you knew it, you didn't crash into the cold and unforgiving asphalt, but a comfy backseat made of caucasian leather.

Still hurt like a bitch though.

The door slammed shut behind you, and you felt the force of the vehicle charging forth and away from this place. What sounded like more gunshots emanated from the back, but it soon stopped, and it seems nothing and nobody vital was hit.

"Heather! Are you alright!?"

You open your eyes to see David looking back at you from the front passenger seat, while Groza was sitting behind the wheel.

"Huff… puff… h-... how's my hair?" you crack a smile. You can be smug now, after all.

"Sniper got your leg." Groza said, looking at you through the back window.

"Hah, thanks for the diagnosis, nurse~"

"C'mon, let me see your leg..." David spoke, leaning forward to check on the damage.

"Relax Dai, it's not like I'll bleed out or get infected like a human."

"... yeah, I know. It's just… been a while since I was part of a firefight… or since we last met."

His expression softened a bit. You get his concern, he was once your caretaker. But it's been a while.

[ ] "You're not my caretaker anymore, Dai. If anything, I'm taking care of you right now."
[ ] "You can help by buying me some now stockings later~"
[X] "Don't worry, I've already got someone who'll chew me out about this. I think you'll like her."
[ ] Write-in

"If you two are done chatting…" interrupted Groza. "Right now we need to get back to the garage and ditch the vehicle. Also, mister Kolsurd, your gun."

"Ah, right…" After the reminder, he pulled out a kerchief and wiped the gun of fingerprints. "So, where are we going? And what's the plan actually, if you don't mind me asking?"

"Well…" Ots is about to speak, but finds herself stumped. Her eyes once again dart towards you through the back mirror. "V, what is the plan?"

"Actually, I was kinda hoping to cross that bridge when we get there. You know, once we've picked up Mack."

"Oh shit, Mack?" David sounded surprised. "I haven't seen him in ages… wait, you mean, the contractor is after him too?"

"Well, they were hell bent on killing you just by association." you shrugged. "I'm pretty damn sure Mack is in danger too."

"But I'm the one who broke the contract. Set you free. Isn't that what this is about?"

You and Groza look at each other for a moment. While it could be argued that the reason for you being able to resist the contractor's "assurance policy" could be traced back to him, it seems unfair to say he's responsible for this mess and people gunning for you. You doubt the contractor cared about you being free at all, they just wanted you out of the picture, no matter if you pose a threat or not.

"... actually, the contractor tried to off me after I delivered the package. But since I am clearly not a smug cyberghost… they decided to kill you two as well, just in case."

"... well shit." His expression turned grim. "You're going after him, right?"

"Yeah. But first, we gotta get you to safety. You keep a low profile until we're back with Mack, got it?"

"... yeah, alright." he sighs. "As long as you'll get someone to keep me company."

"Hah, cheeky as always."

"Well, you certainly didn't get it from Mack."

The two of you laughed, but when Groza took a sharp turn, you accidentally put pressure on your bad leg and winced. "Ugh… there won't be time for a proper fix."

"You're not leading a rescue operation on a broken leg." warned Groza with a stern voice.

"I will if I have back-up." you retorted. "We'll borrow a repair kit from Luv and perform a preliminary fix on the ride there-"

"If it were under my command, I wouldn't let a wounded unit take part in battle."

"Well, I'm in command here, and I am needed to identify the target. Sorry, but I am not budging on this, Groza."

The assault rifle, sighed, but complied. "Affirmative, squad leader."

"Now, since we're already talking about it…"

Pick 2 squadmates to accompany you:
[X] Ots-14
[X] AA-12
[ ] Ouroboros

 

[Lurkman]

So, I promised y'all a little something, didn't I?
Well, here it is. Epsi, drum roll please!

🥁


A massive thanks to the amazing artist Kishinco who drew V's lovely smug likeness is such an amazing and talented manner!
And an equally massive thanks to @Heck_2 for funding the commission! You rock dude, this is the second time you found the perfect artist and surprised me. I don't deserve your kindness, but I hope I can repay it my continuing to write V's adventures, so she may one day grow beyond ^^

Spoiler: Transparent vevrsion

Aaaaaaaaand a little extra, because god loves V, and V loves us in turn <3


Made by the talented FTE@キノコ (fifteen_199), a simpler piece, but still radiating with smug! And you can once again thank Heck for spoiling us with this too. You're the real MVP dude!

 

[Lurkman]

— Temporary Safehouse —

"V, I swear I'm gonna shoot you!"

"Love to see you too, AA-12~"

An exchange that almost seems natural between the two of you, but quite odd to the current audience. You arrived to Luv's garage without a hitch, and you called your loyal shotgun companion to carry you inside. She was quite furious until you pointed out the damaged leg, but her compliance didn't mean her anger dissipated.

"You were right, she really is chewing you out." spoke David, following in tow. The only one absent was Groza, as she had to get rid of the getaway vehicle. You have no doubt she'll be back in no time.

"Oh don't get me started on you, mister. You're the reason she got shot at all!" AA-12 directed her anger away from you for once, glaring at David who was scratching the back of his head.

"W-well, you see, I… um-"

"What's this I heard about getting shot at?" interrupted the voice of the mechanic, approaching you as you entered the workshop this time. She just wiped a black stain from her cheek as she noticed your leg dripping coolant slowly. "Shit, that's a big hole."

"I've had bigger." you wink. "How's the jeep?"

Luv blinked, but got to answering your question. "Um, the bumper's fixed. Was about to give it an oil exchange."

"Skip it, we need it now."

"Wait, what?" asked AA-12. "You've got a crippled leg and a coolant leak, you're in no position to go after the other guy!"

"It's sweet of you to care, but I'll be fine. It's not like I can't stand on my own, and I'll have you as backup."

"That doesn't excu- wait, you can stand? Then what the hell am I carrying you for?!"

"Because it's more romantic this wa- AH!"

Rather nonchalantly, you suddenly cease to feel AA-12's hands carrying you, and your bottom is soon met by the cold concrete floor below. Dropping you like a sack of hot potatoes, the shotgun just leaves with her hands raised in exasperation.

"... nevER AGAIN!"

"Never say never!" you called, even as you lay on the ground. The combined gazes of your ex-coworker David and the mechanic Luv stared at you from above, and you let out a sigh after a while. "Yes yes, I deserved that… anyway, just prepare me a quick repair kit and we'll be on our way."

"Umm, sure, I guess. But who's covering?"

Now it was your turn to stare at someone, and it was David. You stared at him until the message went across, especially with the help of Luv's expectant expression.

"I-I guess that'd be me."

"Huh, so you're the owner of all these dolls?"

"U-um, yeah. All 3 of them."

"4." you whisper.

"4." he corrects himself. "Name's David Kolsurd, by the way. Pleasure to meet you, miss…?"

"Just call me Luv."

"... e-excuse me?"

"Long story. I think your friend could use a hand getting up?"

"Huh? O-oh, right! Sorry, Heather…"

Finally offering you a hand to get up, you take it and let yourself be pulled up. But you wince as you put pressure on your bad leg. Why do dolls need pain receptors anyway?

"You sure you're okay to go like this?"

"I'll be fine." you waved away his worries and turned to Luv. "Sorry to ask you this, but could you possibly allow my owner to crash here for a while? We've still got another errand to run."

"By errand, you mean another shootout to survive? You're not exactly being subtle." the orange haired lady crossed her arms.

"And you haven't kicked us out yet, even though it should be obvious to you that we are all combat oriented high grade models." you rebutted. "Plus, considering the kinda neighbourhood your garage is set in - no offense - and your doll modifying services, I imagine this isn't such an odd sight for you, is it?"

"... no, it isn't." She narrowed her eyes. "Still, I'd like to know that I am not being dragged into some gang war. I don't like picking sides, it's bad for business."

"Hah, really, does it look like gangsters would be after this poor schmuck?" you directed your gaze at Dai.

"W-wha, hey!"

"Besides, perhaps we could sweeten the deal with a little bit of hazard pay?" you winked, to which the mechanic looked quite impressed.

"Hazard pay, huh… you know what? I happen to have a couch for any customers whose orders take a while to process. Mister Kolsurd, would you follow me to fill out some of the paperwork?"

"He'll be with you in a bit. Can you fetch me that repair kit real quick?"

Luv, deciding to permit you one more moment to be alone with Kolsurd, leaves the scene to fetch the requested item. David now drops his somewhat cracking mask and looks to you with worry.

"Heather? You, um, sure we have sufficient funds for all of this?"

"Geez, relax. Didn't you always teach me "when in doubt, bribe it out"?"

"T-that was when we had disposable company budget…"

"Pwhahah, don't worry, I've got enough funds for this and more. You just stay put until I fetch Mack. Don't worry, I'll leave you with someone you can get to know in the meantime. In fact, speaking of…" Behind him, you spy an approaching familiar figure, just on time.

"V, is this the… human you wanted to rescue?" Ouroboros spoke, still clad in her stolen G&K uniform. The side of your lip curled into a smile.

"Ah, right on time. David, Snek-chan. Snek-chan, David. You may now shake hands."

"Oh, um, pleasure to meet you, Snek-chan?"

David offered his hand with almost innocent enthusiasm, but Ouroboros returned only a gaze of utter hatred and anger. You can tell she wants to chew you out for the name calling, but the human presence is clearly making her uneasy.

Oh well, got to give a little push.

[ ] "Commander Snek-chan is a highly distinguished Griffin & Kryuger official. She can bring you up to speed about our current situation. I am trusting you on this, Snek-chan~"
[ ] "Try not to be intimidated. She tried to kill me a few times, but now we are the best of friends! And let me tell you, she's a blast to have around. Ain't that right, Boa?~"
[ ] "Don't take it the wrong way, she just finds human men extremely attractive and thus has a difficult time conversing with them. I'm trusting you to crack open that shell, Dai~"
[ ] Write-in

"Anyway, while I, Groza and AA-12 go after Mack, I want you two to stay here and behave. Got it? Okay~ Buh-bye~"

…

"… WHAT?!"

— Drive-by —

Your business at the garage ended quite swiftly. The mechanic was convinced to hide your companions, and the jeep looks like new. You picked up Groza from wherever she disposed of the getaway vehicle, and you decided not to ask about the smoke cloud just one block away from the pickup point.

You were now on your way to Mack Bell's workplace, a hotel by the name of Newland Bliss, if Newland is an actual word. The road takes you to an outer part of the city, close to the outskirts. Pretty bad place to have a hotel, considering all the crime going on in the suburbs. You can imagine why Mack isn't pleased with his position…

"AA-12, try to drive steadier. I don't wanna make this hole even bigger." Groza was using a pair of tweezers to fish out the bullet out of your leg, while you were hooked up to a coolant pack to replenish what you've lost. For an SMG-type like you, leg wounds are quite annoying.

"Not my fault the traffic's ass around here!"

"I know it's not, but try it regardless. I'm almost done here…"

While she was fixing your leg, you were loading your gun with a fresh magazine. Unfortunately, the garage that doubled as a T-doll workshop did not double as a weapons market, so you'll have to do with what you have.

"Alright, your leg should be functional now, but try not to jump hoops on it. It's only a preliminary fix."

You look at your jury rigged and bandaged leg, stretching to see how well it responded. A bit stiff, but it'll do. Your stockings are ruined though, which is a great shame…

"What, no kissu-kissu on my boo-boo?~"

"Now you're starting to sound like Tiss…" Groza rolled her eyes.

"Hey V, we're coming up on that hotel. What's the plan?" AA-12's eyes glanced at you through the back mirror, lollipop in mouth.

"Well, since we're kinda late, the assassins might be in position already. Assuming they haven't hit their mark yet… I say we just walk in, no questions asked, get Mack and get out of there."

"Assuming they haven't hit their mark yet. What if they did? Us walking in there would make us mighty suspect."

"I'm not leaving until I see Mack. Alive or… alive, definitely alive." You sigh. That's a shitty thought to have, you don't wanna have it. You'd much rather let the hum of the jeep wash those thoughts away. So low, consistent and… poppy? Wait, that popping sound, it sounds like…

"... oh shit! V? I think we're not the first one's here!" AA-12's words stem from the observation before her. The driveway to the hotel is occupied by some brightly colored cars with vinyls, and you can now clearly hear the sounds of gunfire. The pedestrians running away suggests a commotion that's not exactly subtle. But those vehicles don't look exactly like the property of professional killers… more like the rides of gangsters.

"What the… are we stumbling into a gang war?"

"Maybe the contractor hired some cheap muscle…" you thought. The gangs in the outskirts could be quite brutal, but an assault on a public establishment in broad daylight? Only the contractor could have the money and the motive to set this up. "A gang shootout in this neighbourhood is an easy cover story… we need to hurry, they won't be wasting time trying to be subtle."

"You know this gang, or is that just street intuition you got?"

"The vinyls remind me of the Deadline Tsars, but they were a bunch of amateurs back in my day. Certainly didn't have the cast for rides like those…"

The vehicle grinds to a halt, and you waste no time getting out of the vehicle. Groza does the same. But before the shotgun can get out, you give her an order.

"AA-12, circle around the back. Me and Groza will go through the front. We'll meet inside."

"Just don't make me crash through any more walls, okay?" Dust picks up as AA-12 races away. You and Groza now stand before the open entrance of the Newland Bliss hotel, the doors ajar and riddled with bullet holes.

"There's gonna be a lot of human hostiles in there. A lot of blood on our hands if we engage them." Groza remarked.

"Not like we have a choice if they get in our way." you reply.

"True. But keep in mind, every bullet that hits its mark is another grudge held against you. Be it their friends, family, or even the law. These crooks will make it personal."

"Point taken…" you sigh. "Alright, let's…"

[ ] "Avoid firefights. They'll be busy ransacking the place, we just need to find Mack and get him out. No deaths would be ideal."
[ ] "Just get in and shoot every motherfucker that gets in our way. We'll be doing the city a favor anyway."
[ ] "... send a message to the contractor. Rescue is our primary objective. Our secondary… will be extermination."
[ ] "Try negotiating? We know what they're after, maybe we could trick them, or at least stall them until AA-12 gets into position."
[ ] Write-in

 

[Lurkman]

[X] "Avoid firefights. They'll be busy ransacking the place, we just need to find Mack and get him out. No deaths would be ideal."

"Good call." spoke Groza. "Should we find a way to kill the lights, I can navigate us through."

"You and your special eyes~"

With your strategy decided, you and Groza enter through the battered doors of the establishment and find yourselves in the lobby. There were clear signs of a firefight, not just vandalism, but it seems the hotel security was caught off guard. There was a trail of blood leading up to the reception desk, and the body of a security guard at its end, having died mid-crawl. The sizable hole in the back of his head made his end clear.

"They left behind quite a trail…" says Groza. You circle around the reception desk, checking if there's a security feed or computer system you can access. For a moment you look down at the body of a dead receptionist, two bullet holes through her chest, one in her neck. There's a handgun in her hand, but unfortunately she wasn't fast enough… You carefully walk around her, noticing a computer monitor that's cracked but still somewhat operational. It's a video feed of some hallways.

There's people running, and people giving chase. Bright flashes, and people falling to the ground. It's a massacre.

"I don't get it… what's their goal? No matter the paycheck, senselessly gunning down civilians will run their reputation to the ground…" Groza mused.

"I don't know either…" you admit. This is unlike anything they've done when you were last in the city. Something must've changed… new leadership perhaps?

"... V, look." Groza pointed towards the desk, more specifically the panic button beneath it. It hasn't been pressed yet. "Police are no doubt on their way, but this may get them to be more urgent and send more forces. Could put a stop to this slaughter sooner."

"We still need to make sure we don't get caught and treated as suspects. It's over if that happens…"

"It's your call."

You look at the panic button, thinking. If the police arrive, you can't fight them, that would turn you into a permanent enemy of the state. If they arrive, you can only run. With this in mind, you…

[ ] Press the button.
[ ] Don't press the button.

You check the camera feed one last time to get a read of the place, and notice a lonely figure sneaking around. It's hard to make out, but they seem to have snuck into some locker room near the kitchen area… wherever that might be. It's as good a place as any to start the search, even if it's not Mack it may be someone who may point you towards him.

"Alright, let's move. I'll take point."

You leave the reception area and head down one of the hallways, the one less riddled with bullet holes and splinters. Avoiding the gangsters is optimal for now, you can check the bodies they left behind after they move to another area. You pass by some hotel rooms, ignoring those that are locked and unregistered, and briefly checking those that have been kicked or shot open. Some of the rooms were trashed and looted, but no bodies.

You approach a double door that appears to lead to the hotel's kitchen. But before you can enter, you hear footsteps. The two of you hide at the sides of the door, watching them open from the inside as you hide.

"You sure that's it for the first floor? You know these crafty fucks can hide shit under their fingernails if they have to."

"We already collected enough dough to last us for a real long time. But we'll keep looking, like the boss said."

Two scrawny looking men walk past, not noticing you or Groza. They were both armed and their faces were covered with red bandanas. Their conversation continues.

"Gotta say, never expected them to grow this ballsy. And right under our noses too!"

"I hear ya, the boss really hit the jackpot this time. Now let's hurry to the second floor, I heard they're interrogating some of the stragglers. I wanna join in on the fun~"

"Heck yeah to that, it's not every day we can cut loose like this!"

They leave your vision, and their voices recede into the distance. Their words made it sound like they were just robbing the place, rather than gunning for something in particular… but this is too much of a coincidence for them not to be after Mack in some sense.

You turn back to Groza and nod. The two of you creep into the kitchen together. It is quite spacious, with no windows, and thankfully no dead chefs. It too seems to have been ransacked to some degree though, but why? What's there to find in a kitchen other than food?

"Storage room, 5 o'clock." you announce. "Cover me while I head in."

You open it with your gun drawn, Groza standing guard outside. The room seemed dark and unremarkable, kinda small too. The door closes behind you as you head in deeper. Sadly, you notice nobody hiding between the shelves or behind the boxes. You tried saying his name, but you got no response. There was just a tiny window at the other end, too small for anyone to even squeeze through. But you saw someone walk past, threading on their tip toes. Someone snuck out, but then you heard a bump and a curse. Did they get spotted?

"Hey! We've got a straggler!" you hear a call, but not from the window. It was from behind you, from the kitchen. You turn around and rush to the door, trying to see what the situation is-

-but the lights go down just as you get there. With no windows, the kitchen is shrouded in darkness, and a few moments later you see the flashes of gunfire illuminate fleeting fractions of a dark scene. You hear the bewilderment of the gangsters, as well as their screams. And after a while, the lights magically turn back on.

You see Groza adjusting her rifle's sights next to the light switch, with two men lying unconscious behind her. A shelf is lying on one of them, while the other seems to have grown accustomed to the blunt force potential of kitchen appliances such as frying pans.

"Found anything?" the assault rifle asks nonchalantly, and you decide to just play off her casual attitude for now.

"Nope, but I spotted someone outside. Maybe he snuck out, but someone might have caught him."

"Let's hurry then." she was prepared to follow you, but then you hear more voices nearby.

"I'm sure I've heard gunshots down here… guys? You ok?!" calls a man from the way you came from. Groza sighed.

"... V, how about you go find the target while I lure these gentlemen away? You won't have the privacy to access his safety otherwise."

"... sounds good. Go."

The two of you nod, and you leave the kitchen through another set of doors. You can already hear the flick of the light switch once again, inviting those fools into her playing field. Knowing she can handle a few gangsters, you continue onward.

You know that the wall to your right is next to the alley where you saw that man, so you keep following it until you spot some sort of exit point. And soon enough, you do. The bright green EXIT sign makes that obvious, so you head out. The alleyway you enter is tight, cluttered, and long. You look down each end, but then-

"AAAH! L-let go of me!"

Your vision snaps to the direction of the sound. You rush down the alley, spotting two figures. One of them is your target, Mack Bell, held by the neck and his feet dangling above the ground. And the other… a masked female, clutching him by the throat, lifting him with just one hand. The other held a familiar gun, aimed at his abdomen.

"Drop him!" you called, your weapon aimed. But she must've noticed you sooner, and took Mack into a chokehold, using him as a meat shield against you. Her gun was aimed your way.

"W-wha… H-heather? I-Is that yo-AH!" Mack tried to speak when he laid his eyes on you, but the assailant laid her hand on his throat again and began to squeeze. You see that her hand has no skin, no artificial skin at least, it's just mechanical, and her fingers are beginning to flare up like they're heating up. It is clearly burning Mack's throat, threatening to scorch through…

"... alright alright, I get it! I'm backing off, see?" you take a step back, though without aiming your gun away. "Hey, hey, I remember you. From the diner, right? VMS-07?"

For a moment, the hostile doll hesitates. Her scorching fingers cool off, and Mack can breathe again, though he dares not say another word.

You're sure of it, it's the doll you saw when you first entered that diner where you delivered the package. Leather jacket, short white hair, and that mask that can project any kind of imagery. VMS cocks her head, her display mask showing a pair of eyes, squinting in suspicion.

"I'm the delivery girl, remember? You were hired by Bizon, and… the contractor?"

As a response, her mask displays the silhouette of a man when you mentioned the contractor. It seems she knows who you're referring to, though judging by the nature of the symbology, she may not know much about them.

"He hired you, didn't he? For this gig? To kill that guy you're holding right now?"

For morbid imagery this time, she displays a handgun, aimed to the side at Mack's head. A blood splatter came when it shot. You're grateful it's just imagery, though it lays her intentions pretty bare. She starts to back away, not loosening her grip on Mack.

"H-hey, all I'm here for is that guy. I'm not after you or the gang you're with, alright? Maybe we can make a deal?"

She stops for a moment, the mask shining dark for a moment. Then it shows a man laughing, sunglasses and golden chains, probably a celebrity… the message is clear, what can you offer what she doesn't already have?

"How much is he paying you? I've got an E-war module, I could-"

But the offer is shut down by burning banknotes raining within her mask. Does she not care about money? What else can you offer… Maybe negotiations were doomed from the start?

But a sliver of hope presented itself then, when you noticed behind her a vehicle slowly going into the alley. You spot AA-12 in the driver's seat, the jeep fitting tightly into the alley way, but fitting nonetheless. She notices the situation, and nods to you.

"... if money's not your style, I've got something else…" you speak, constantly drawing VMS' attention to you. AA-12 is slowly driving the jeep nearer, trying to get it as close as she can without her hearing, before she would go full gas. VMS listened, but her patience was clearly thinning, as she took a few more steps back. Her mask displays three blinking dots, getting redder and redder. She wants your answer.

"Calm down now, no need to get your gears all grinded up. I have the answer to all your problems…"

Just a little closer. Just a little bit of stalling, and you'll be set. You look Mack in the eyes, his understandably terrified eyes, and give him a wink.

"And that answer is…GET DOWN MACK!"

The engine roars as she hits the pedal and races down the alley. VMS looks back, seeing the jeep's headlights approach her like she's a deer, and she is thus forced to let go of her target. Mack, though a little disoriented, does as he's told and hits the ground.

And the T-doll? She turns towards the Jeep and jumps. Her knees nearly brush against the front bumper, and her feet bounce off the roof as it passes under her, but thanks to her SMG acrobatics she evaded AA-12's stealth attack completely.

Of course, you knew this would happen.

Mack, thanks to your callout, hit the ground and let the jeep harmlessly pass over him. But he would still need your protection, so you've made your move.

As AA-12's momentum raced towards you, you opted to do the same as VMS, only with a running start. First step on the bumper, second on the hood, third on the roof. You're too short to cover it in one jump anyway.

As you jump off, you see VMS has already recovered from her jump, and you're not going to give her any more time.

You aim your gun and shoot.

In response, she rolls to avoid your volley, not backward but forward. You roll as you hit the ground as well, putting you quite literally face to face with the hostile doll, leaving you between her and Mack.

In CQC, whoever gets their gun aimed at the other wins. So you bring up your namesake weapon, and VMS kicks it straight out of your hand. Damn, you should not have let yourself be disarmed so easily.

You grab her arm and try to wrestle her for her gun, the only thing you have time for. But she's strong, stronger than you expected another SMG type to be. She pushes you against a nearby wall. Her mask displays the graphic imagery of a throat being slit.

You spin around and put your feet against the wall, trying to run up and twist the gun out of her hand. It almost works, but she's still holding on tight. You prepare to drive your elbow down on her joint to break her arm-

-and you feel a sharp pain as she stomps your bad leg, forcing you to your knees. She uses this moment to untwist her arm, gaining the upper hand again. Time for contingencies…

In the split second before she aims her gun at you, you take advantage of your kneeling position to grab the knife from your boot.

Her arm. That should remove the immediate danger. You can worry about the rest later.

You stab upwards, driving the blade into VMS's forearm. The arm stops, and its grip on the gun slackens. Good. Now, you twist and-

Pain. Shock. The world goes blurry. Of course, you forgot about her other arm. Hazily, you see VMS raise her leg to kick you away.

You impact the wall, your breath being knocked right out, and hit the ground on all fours. There's a loud crack, and you're not sure it was just the wall. When your vision refocuses, you see VMS staring at her gun wielding arm, pierced by your blade and unresponsive below the wrist. She can't fire the weapon or even let go of it, the joints in her palm and fingers stuck. Her mask displays cogs jammed by a crowbar, sparking as they cannot move, but she doesn't seem too bothered...

'Just what the hell is she?' you ask yourself. Last time someone gave you such a hard time, you were tangoing with a ringleader. This is just another T-doll… or so you thought until now.

She unceremoniously rips the knife out of her arm, regaining some level of animation in her shooting hand. She looks towards you, her mask a simple blank as she's about to aim it at you. But then you hear some hurried footsteps, and both look to the side…

"... Mack no!!!"

VMS throws the knife, its edge stained with T-doll blood soon mixing with human blood. It embeds into his right leg, and he falls to the ground, barely a metre away from your gun. She starts walking towards him.

You try to stand up, but your bad leg has been severely damaged. Not to mention, that impact definitely cracked some other joints. You keep trying to force yourself to stand, but every time you stumble down again… you can't get to him…

VMS grabs the squirming Mack by the collar, pulling him up to his stumbling feet. You feared she might finally go through with it this time, but she seemed to be thinking one step ahead perhaps. You hear the footsteps of AA-12 rushing to the scene, but Mack is already being used as a meatshield once again by that point.

"V! Are you alright?!" she asked, taking a position near you.

Well, time to put on the mask again.

"My back's sore, but I can't complain. What took you so long?"

"Alley was too tight, okay? Couldn't get out through the door."

You both turned your attention back at VMS holding Mack as her shield, gun aimed at his head. AA-12 had her shotgun aimed, but it was probably the worst tool one could ever equip for a hostage situation. Somehow you feel like you're in a worse position than before…

"That your guy?"

"Yup."

"... you sure he's worth it?"

"H-hey!" called Mack, struggling in VMS's grip. "I can assure you I am most DEFINITELY worth it! H-heather can vouch for me! I am-!" His claims were cut short when VMS pressed the barrel of her gun against his neck, after which his voice grew a lot smaller. "O-o-okay I-I'll just quiet down…"

AA-12 tries to take a step forward, but the mask on VMS' face displays a stop sign. She's not letting either of you get any closer. AA-12 rolls her eyes.

"Ugh… So, what's the play, V?"

AA-12's voice doesn't seem to betray much worry. Does she trust you so much? Or is the thing at stake here only of importance to you? You can hear police sirens in the distance, neither of you can stay here for much longer. Weighing your options, there's not much you can do…

Ots-14 is out there somewhere still, but you can't reach her through Zener. Perhaps you are being jammed… which means there are stronger forces at play here. You couldn't even reach into VMS… it's like she's a void in electronic space, like just an object, isolated from the grid. You've got no reliable way to surprise VMS anymore, and she's far too dangerous up close. You're not sure how AA-12 would deal with her… she's ruthless, no doubt part of the gang that mercilessly slaughtered this hotel, and yet…

"... why haven't you killed him yet?"

A question you ask simply, plainly. The hostile SMG responds by pressing her gun tighter against his neck, her finger caressing the trigger. He squirms, perhaps thinking his prayers, as VMS stares you down with a pair of black eyes on her mask. But you're having none of it.

"Yeah yeah, very menacing… but an assassin would've done it already. Leads me to believe you don't really need him dead."

She stayed silent for a moment, which for her meant that her mask was blank. Even no response is a response, one you can understand, but only so much. There's no way she'll tell you what she wants him for, how long she'll keep him alive, and what she'll do to him. And even if you knew, can you trust this… thing?

[ ] Let her go for now
[ ] Stall and hope that Ots-14 will show up to turn the tide
[ ] Offer [write-in] in exchange for Mack
[ ] Write-in