I'm a lazy ass, I know. But I got stuck on a lot of places this chapter. Less "how are they going to receive this" and more "how the fuck do I write this" but I found a way in the end. We'll see in a few chapters whether this effort paid off, but until then, enjoy the little present this update brings~
Due to the length of the chapter (almost 3k words) I couldn't squeeze in Kalina's talk show, so that's coming next chapter. But rest assured that we'll see two very lovely ladies on the next one~ Someone's gonna eat a lot, and someone's gonna get Ara Ara'd~
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Jun 22, 2020 at 12:03 PM, finished with 12 posts and 8 votes.
[X] Write-in: "By that time Snake-chan was trying to eat me up, and I wasn't exactly able to do much beyond defending myself." Point a finger at your sliced leg. "We kinda went to the hilt on that one."
You keep it stashed away, making sure nobody would spot it. It's small, easy to hide, and nobody suspects you so far. Surely it'll be useful in the future.
You see the arriving girls of echelon 3, sniper rifles of various calibers, along with the small handgun messenger, no worse for wear. Groza intercepts Barrett and SPP-1 straight away, likely to explain to them their situation. PSG-1 and JS05 approach the rest of you, the former looking rather concerned at the resting machinegun.
"Oh geez, is she…?"
"Asleep? Yeah. Lucky her." replied Saw, chuckling as she brushed her fluffy white tail. Keeping that thing clean couldn't have been easy.
"We should at least check her for damage before taking her back to base…" suggested JS05, crouching down and snapping her fingers near HK23's ears "Hey, HK23, wake up! Don't make me pull on your cheeks!"
The small MG didn't react. Clearly she wasn't completely offline, as was evident by the rise and fall of her chest, indicating breath. She also seemed to murmur things in her sleep, but nothing as understandable as the secret weapon's night quotes. Dolls sure react strangely when they hit their heads… but then again, so do humans.
As you watch them try getting the T-doll to wake up, you notice a presence next to you. It wasn't Tiss, as she was much taller, and you noticed her before she spoke. The long coat of M82A1 Barrett is pretty recognizable, giving her more of a professional look now that she zipped it up due to the elements of the night and the weather. Topped off by her long pink hair, she still looked beautiful, even by doll standards. She attempts to say something, but seems to stop herself multiple times before deciding on what to actually say.
"... I am glad to see everyone made it."
You nod. Losing anyone would've been painful, no matter how little you know them. And not just because you find them all cute...
"It was a long night, but everyone held close to their goals, and thus can now pursue them for another day."
You nod again. You understand a thing or two about goals, and how the importance of goals can lead to interesting decisions.
"I am… glad to see you've made it too, Veresk."
That comment felt a little unnecessary. She did say everyone, so of course that included you, didn't it? Is she trying to imply something? Why would you be so important anyway, for her to worry about you specifically?
"Hah… that obvious, is it?"
She chuckled, which might've been the most emotion you saw her display yet, beyond that tranquil face and conflicted speech.
"It's… I must be bothering you…"
Her vibrant eyes were gazing into the sky, watching the few stars visible in-between the cracks of the storm clouds. She looked almost… sad. Not something one should feel after a job well done. Maybe this is about last time, when she so awkwardly asked you about your taste in music.
"It's alright. Go on."
"... I paid witness to Ouroboros' savage attack upon you. I attempted to provide covering fire, but you disappeared within that building."
So Echelon 3 was already in position by that time? Makes sense, considering how quickly they got Groza and the others out. For a moment you worried that she might've seen your interaction with the enemy ringleader...
"I stayed for as long as I could to assure your safety, but Ots-14 inevitably gave the order to withdraw. I was no use to you in the end…"
She was still watching the dim stars, her long rifle leaning against her. You ponder upon her words. On your way out of that building, you saw some dead SF with large holes laying around your exit. Could've Ouroboros tried to outwit you had those still been operational? If so, this rifle T-doll just saved you. Funny how she thinks otherwise.
"I see… thanks. You're a real guardian angel."
"... Dolls are no angels. We bring no miracles…"
Her gaze is once again distant, and somehow even sadder. You were just trying to compliment her, but you can't fathom why what you said brought out this response.
"... but I appreciate the compliment."
Suddenly, as if pulled back to reality, she turns to give you a side glance.
"If… If you don't mind, maybe later we could-"
"Everyone, it's time to move out!" interrupted the voice of Groza, getting not only your attention, but that of all other dolls as well "Barrett, SPP-1, you know your posts. Wish I could give you more, but it's commander's orders."
"We'll do our best, Ots-14." reassured the short handgun, trying to put on a determined face. You hope she won't be cold without a coat, but at least her feet won't hurt thanks to you.
"I do not mind. I obey any order." spoke Barrett, lifting her rifle off the ground. It seemed like she wanted to say something, but decided against it, instead just giving you a simple wave for goodbye. You'll probably see her in a day again… if you'll be still around. You return her a farewell.
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[ ] "Keep an eye on SPP-1, alright?"
[ ] "See you soon, Barrett."
[ ] Write-in
--- later, back at base ---
"Miss Veresk!"
Back at base you were, safe and sound, with plenty of the night still remaining. On arrival you were expecting the voice of Benelli to greet you, seeing as she was the only personnel left on base. The voice you've heard, although familiar, wasn't hers. And looking into the direction of the running footsteps, realizing you don't have to lift your head to look at her greyish blue eyes, you recognized her right away.
"And AA-12 too! Surprise!"
"Oh, MP5, it's been a… few days, I guess." AA-12 made an awkward wave. Clearly she doesn't know how to respond to such surprises well, but at least it wasn't a hug. But why is the SMG here… quickly enough, you got your answer as MP5 spoke again.
"There has been a transfer request for more troops to Area S06, and since we knew that's where you were headed, we volunteered."
Ah, that's right. The other dolls mentioned something about reinforcements coming to the base after this operation. You wouldn't have guessed there'd be a familiar face among them… wait, did she say we?
"Hey Veresk and AA-12!" another familiar voice came from behind MP5. Skipping her way towards you was the joyous Astra revolver, tipping her little police hat as a greeting. She was holding two plastic cups of what you could only assume to be snacks, eating out of one.
"Pudding?"
"... sure, why not." accepted the shotgun. As usual, she cared little when tired. Hopefully this little sugary treat will cheer her up. No doubt they took those snacks from Area S09, as the commander here is very conservative with resources.
"It is good to see you two." you spoke. It was only a few days ago, or has it already been a week? You decided to say farewell to only a few dolls when you departed the Fortress of Solitude, those being the two before you, the base commanding T-doll, and her adjutant. To think this would lead them to join the same front you fight on. Or would they have ended up here either way? Who knows.
"Likewise! Miss Benelli already filled us in on all the details about Area S06. The work you did was amazing!"
[ ] "Psh, it was nothing."
[ ] "What can I say? I'm just naturally awesome."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[ ] Write-in
"Oh yeah, and we've been wondering ever since you left so suddenly, how's that secret missio-mmph?"
"Hey!"
Phew, that was close. Almost spilled the beans there, but you were quick enough to fill MP5's mouth with a lollipop you swiftly snatched from AA-12's pocket. It was enough to silence the doll before she spoke of your secret task. Not that you ever told her what it was, only that it was secret. But the fewer the number of dolls in the base that know there even is a secret to begin with, the better. So you put a finger on your lips in a "shhh" gesture, hoping she'll get the message.
"Did someone say secret?"
But of course, it wouldn't slip under her radar. Ots-12 came over at rocket speed, eager to know all about whatever was so secret, for she was a secret weapon herself.
"U-um, yeah... A secret…" don't say it... "... a secret welcoming party! That's right!" spoke the small SMG.
"Oh, how devious. You're definitely going to need the secret weapon's approval for that."
"The secret weapon…? Oh, you're Ots-12, aren't you? W-well, sure! We'd love to have you!"
"A party! Great! I didn't even know we're having one!" cheered the excited Astra. In fact, nobody here knew there's gonna be a party "What about you AA-12? Gonna join us?"
"Actually… I was kinda planning to tune in to my favorite radio show, by myse-"
"Perfect! We'll listen to it all together!"
"..."
A deep sigh escaped the shotgun's nose. An evening ruined? Possibly. At least she can't blame you for this, even if it is your fault.
"A party, huh?" approached Groza, standing behind you almost as sneakily as a sister, but with a tone that cut into everyone's enthusiasm like a knife. It looked like today's little reunion rendezvous would be cancelled. But then... "Well, I suppose you earned it, as long as you keep quiet. But don't start celebrating just yet, we still have to debrief."
"Thank you, miss Ots-14!" thanked MP5, smiling with almost blinding intensity "We'll go ahead and prepare everything, meet us in our dorm, miss Veresk, miss AA-12."
--- in the briefing room ---
Not every single doll was required to make a report. Those who had simple tasks, less involvement or little insight could go to their dorms and relax. You however weren't as uninvolved as you hoped you'd be. Being separated from your team on two occasions, and having faced the ringleader, you were deemed important enough to be debriefed in person. Fortunately, since the commander wanted the debrief to be as swift as possible, you would be handled by Benelli, while he and Groza handled the other dolls at the same time. You even had privacy, which was nice.
"Veresk, I must say that your performance was… impressive. Extraordinarily so."
"Oh my, such a charmer~"
You told her everything that they needed to know. Of course you left out some details and added some. No need for them to know everything, they just wanted combat data after all, especially any information they could gather on that cute little snake. She asked you to refer to her as Ouroboros as per her designation, to which you complied, but not before asking her to relax a little in turn. She seemed uptight as always, and you didn't want her to start pushing for details you can't divulge. After a while, the questions strayed away from the subject of the ringleader, and more towards…
"So… what were you thinking when you charged her? We don't really have any protocols that'd justify that sort of behavior."
"A T-doll isn't restrained by protocols, you know? We can analyze the battlefield and come up with a suitable course of action on our own terms, should the situation demand it."
"So you thought it the best course of action?"
"More like the only one."
"But… how did you know it would work? Actions that put you at such a risk can't be taken without careful consideration and consultation. The probability of failure alone…"
"Guess I just followed my gut."
"Followed… your gut?"
You couldn't help but chuckle when she looked down at her stomach. She can't be that unfamiliar with the phrase, can she? You decided to elaborate a little.
[ ] "You ever feel like you know what to do, even when nobody tells you? Not some order or instruction stored inside your digimind."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[ ] "You can't really explain it, it's a feeling. Call it impulse, but it's reliable."
[ ] Write-in
"So that's how you see it… but acting on impulse is reckless, isn't it? It is always important to think things through thoroughly."
"Well, if I did spend a second more thinking it through, it would be a second too late."
"I… suppose that's true… you seem to have experience in those sorts of things."
"You could say that."
"Were you in another company before coming to Griffin?"
"Um, this isn't part of the debriefing anymore, is it?"
"Oh, u-um, right… I apologize." the shotgun stammered for an apology, fixing her files on the table "I suppose we're done here. You can go and rest now. Thank you for all your hard work today, miss Veresk."
--- in the dorms ---
"Miss Veresk, welcome!"
You were greeted into the dorm room of Astra and MP5 after knocking. You thought there weren't any more free dorm rooms, but it seems they cleared space for these new arrivals. It wasn't any less cramped inside, only two beds and the dolls' belongings sitting upon them. AA-12 was already there, clean and setting up the radio. You too had time to repair and clean yourself. It was a long night, and although it might get a little longer now, at least it is in a calm, friendly and soft environment.
Speaking of soft, you could already feel a certain someone peering over you from behind, her hands on your shoulders as she announces her arrival.
"The secret weapon has arrived. Prepare the pillows~" you could certainly feel her pillows alright.
"I already prepared the snacks!" declared Astra, which of course meant she was already snacking herself. Her light red eyes looked shameless as she did.
"C'mon guys, I'm trying to listen for the frequency…" spoke an annoyed AA-12, fiddling with the radio controls. Judging by the time, she's probably once again trying to tune in on that Kalina woman's radio show again. What was she again, a logistics officer in Area S09? Odd way to spend one's night in a PMC.
You take a seat on one of the beds, waiting with the others for the show to start. You left your stuff in your room, since everyone's trying to be comfortable, and a sleepover would be weird with full tactical gear. The others are chatting, quietly of course as to not agitate the shotgun, and as you wait quietly, someone you knew would show up eventually let herself be known.
B: "Hello Alpha."
Γ: "Hey Chief."
You give them a nod of acknowledgement. They've come at a good time, there are some things you'd like to discuss with them. And if not now, then later when everyone's asleep.
Γ: "Yeah yeah, lots of stuff happened today. Honestly, we're not entirely sure about those things either chief. But before we dive into that, what are your plans for tonight?"
Of course, a decision that comes every night. To keep digging out your past, or to expand your collection of virtual dummies.
B: "Well, there has been a little development, Alpha. Fear not, it is a good one! It concerns our sisters yet to be. Exciting, is it not?"
Γ: "They're more clones than sisters Beta… anyway, I hope you don't have anything against Delta, but if you'd like, we can jump straight to Espilon."
"How so?"
B: "Remember how you got the two of us? Dividing the previous virtual dummy into two? Well, you can do that with each of us. You can pull on me to get Epsilon!"
Γ: "Or me to get Delta, if you want someone who's actually useful."
"Did you only remember this now?"
B: "It seems to be a side effect of us getting more familiar with your digimind, now that we are back."
Γ: "Or a result of almost frying yourself. If you don't know what I'm talking about, we'll get to it once you're asleep and not among these schoolgirls."
B: "True, the girls are too pretty and distracting!"
Γ: "Not… what I meant…"
Well, like they said, it is a development. This might improve the rate at which you restore your digimind to its original state. By the sound of it, you will now have a number of virtual dummies to choose from for unlocking, depending on the number of dummies you already have. And since right now you have Beta and Gamma, you can choose between Delta and Epsilon. But what did each of them do again? You remember them very vaguely… perhaps another trip down memory lane will help you choose more wisely if you're still unsure, your locked memory files always being a viable option to spend the night on.
[ ] Unlock memory file: - [-] File #1 - 1 year ago - [ ] File #2 - 11 months ago
- [ ] File #3 - 1 year and 7 months ago - [-] File #4 - 1 year and 5 months ago - [ ] File #5 - 2 years and 5 months ago - [-] File #6 - Day of capture
- [-] File #7 - 5 months ago
- [-] File #8 - 5 months ago - [ ] File #9 - 3 years ago
- [ ] File #11 - 2 years ago - [-] File #13 - 2 years and 3 months ago
[X] Unlock virtual dummy: - [-] Beta
- [-] Gamma
- [ ] Delta
- [X] Epsilon
[X] "See you soon, Barrett."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "You ever feel like you know what to do, even when nobody tells you? Not some order or instruction stored inside your digimind."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Epsilon
Are all those memory files two action ones to unlock?
I remember something like that.
And I think Veresk is getting suspected a bit more, but is also known to be nice, so they're hesitating a bit. I wonder just how much Barret saw... also called it on someone having been watching us at that time.
What do you mean two action? If you mean whether you have to choose between dummy unlocking or memory unlocking, yes, you can only choose one. If you're asking about how it used to be that V could open two memory files a night, that's not a thing anymore as these are second layer memories, which can only be opened one per night.
In short, gotta pick between a single memory or a single dummy for this night. Hope I answered it right ^^'
If you're asking about how it used to be that V could open two memory files a night, that's not a thing anymore as these are second layer memories, which can only be opened one per night.
Yeah, that's the lore reason. The other reason is that I don't wanna do another 5k+ word chapter XD. It also allows me to occasionally do memories that span for more than one chapter, so I see this as a win ^^
[X] "See you soon, Barrett."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Epsilon
The long coat of M82A1 Barrett is pretty recognizable, giving her more of a professional look now that she zipped it up due to the elements of the night and the weather.
This was a missed opportunity to reminiscence about the vote choice to call her properly by her name when they parted ways.
I'm really glad this more respectful parting won.
Ah, I see you are a dummy of culture.
Can we keep her and still get Epsillon? I kinda don't wan't to lose such a cultured companion.
There is such understanding between us~~
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] Write-in: "You ever feel like you know what to do, even when nobody tells you? Not some order or instruction stored inside your digimind? That comes with time spent in operation, your experiences, both day-to and combat. My simply indicated that when out of other options you cling on to whats left and do your best. It's probably not really reassuring, but there are SF melee units that specialize in such close quarters combat as their primary tactic. And it felt good surprising one of their leaders with a tactic they developed."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Epsilon
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
This is the only one of the votes I actually feel sure about supporting a particular choice, so I will leave the others to be decided by everyone else.
This was a missed opportunity to reminiscence about the vote choice to call her properly by her name when they parted ways.
I'm really glad this more respectful parting won.
Ah, I see you are a dummy of culture.
Can we keep her and still get Epsillon? I kinda don't wan't to lose such a cultured companion.
There is such understanding between us~~
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock memory file:
- [X] File #9 - 3 years ago
Why are we voting for more dummies? They aren't very useful to us right now, and I don't see us getting physical dummies anytime in the near future. If we can find out more about our last mission from Columba though? That would be nice. Besides, the GM even hinted that it might be helpful to see if we can learn more about Delta and Epsilon from our memories before choosing one. I also just plain don't want to wait to hear more of the memory story revealed
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Epsilon
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Epsilon
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock memory file:
- [X] File #9 - 3 years ago
Little Veresk has gotten soo lewd while I was away, touching snakes and kissing girls right on their underslung grenade launchers.
[X] "Stay safe, sweet Angel."
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "You ever feel like you know what to do, even when nobody tells you? Not some order or instruction stored inside your digimind."
[X] Unlock virtual dummy:
- [X] Delta
He has returned, as it was prophesied! He who is totally not a kobold!
Glad to have a good old fan return to the glory of our beloved V. That old character list could use some polish (wink wink, nudge nudge).
Edit: wow, you already did. V would be proud! You get an omake point for that ^^
Glad to have a good old fan return to the glory of our beloved V. That old character list could use some polish (wink wink, nudge nudge).
Edit: wow, you already did. V would be proud! You get an omake point for that ^^
[X] "Keep an eye on SPP-1, alright?"
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] "It's just a human phrase for instinct. Intuition. It's got nothing to do with your actual tummy."
[X] Unlock memory file: - [X] File #2 - 11 months ago
Beep boop. Life-signs detected... and boy they're big. I am so glad to update this thread after so long. And that not just with any update, but the second biggest update yet. 4k words is nothing to sneeze at here, and I definitely banged my head against the wall way too many times trying to make this work. It is also a very impactful point in the plot. This will make or break the tension accumulated from many previous choices, and I hope the circumstances that led to this will make sense.
Aside from that, if any of you remember that other story I wrote that I was advertising a while back, I have decided to re-release it on SB in a much more easier to read format, having segmented the chapters into smaller parts for easy consumption and keeping track of where you left off. I will be updating both the SV and SB threads, even if they haven't garnered as much attention as I hoped they would. For anyone interested, here's the link to MGF:E on SB.
Lastly, a little update on V's chibi animation. With the current state of the world, the artist has become very busy and the final product will be delayed quite a bit. But I believe that eventually we will have our doggo riding Veresk in all her animated glory. Let's all be patient until then!
Enjoy the chapter ^^
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Jul 7, 2020 at 10:07 AM, finished with 18 posts and 10 votes.
[X] "Wouldn't have made it half of the way without this candy cane here."
[X] Write-in: "You ever feel like you know what to do, even when nobody tells you? Not some order or instruction stored inside your digimind? That comes with time spent in operation, your experiences, both day-to and combat. My simply indicated that when out of other options you cling on to whats left and do your best. It's probably not really reassuring, but there are SF melee units that specialize in such close quarters combat as their primary tactic. And it felt good surprising one of their leaders with a tactic they developed."
Murmured Tiss, having placed herself next to you. Stealing the spot so stealthily, hopefully the shotgun will not be too annoyed to see she'll have to share. Or perhaps she'll sit on the other bed where MP5 and Astra have placed themselves, munching on snacks. You heard that sweets are bad for humans before bed, but that doesn't seem to be the case for the slim handgun. At least the small SMG was taking it easy.
"Miss Veresk?" she addressed you "We've heard from miss M1014 that you have faced a ringleader. Hunter, right? And that you fought her off all by yourself?"
"Well…"
"Oh, and today…" added Astra "Didn't you meet that new ringleader, Ouroboros?"
"Ah, yes, the snake." reminisced Tiss "Heather managed to steal the skin off her back. She was quite flustered."
"O…kay?" the two seemed a little confused, which was understandable. They did not see her cute blush and denials of love~
"You'll get to see that in person soon enough. Griffin is gearing up for a big operation, and we're all gonna be part of it." spoke Tiss, which has garnered your interest as well.
"A big operation?"
"The full takeover of Area S06. Commanders from neighbouring sectors are joining the fight with squads of their own. All kinds of T-dolls are going to pay witness to my secret techniques~"
MP5 perked up "Ah, yes, commander Gentiane was kind enough to allow our transfer here for the time being, but there's a chance we'll see the others on the battlefield too. Miss StG44 has been wondering about you a lot, miss Veresk, saying you should contact her when you're able."
"Heather seems to have lots of friends." murmured the assault rifle "Bright Star, need any help with that?"
"I've got it by myself... Ugh, prolly should've asked for a proper radio instead of using this piece of junk…" spoke AA-12, fiddling with the radio you have taken from that old jeep you left behind, trying to find the right frequency and aim the antennas right. "By the way, why do you still call me Bright Star? You call Heather by her normal name."
"Well, hmm… Secret code names are important! But I suppose I can make an exception, for a friend of the secret weapon."
"I don't really care, was just wondering… ah! Got the frequency!"
Pumping her fist triumphantly, AA-12 left the radio as is, fearing any further interference would screw up her precise work. But not before turning up the volume, allowing everyone in the room to hear what is being broadcast. When she sat down, you had your trusty shotgun on one side and the secret weapon on your other side, practically towering over you. Quite a comfy spot you got for yourself.
"Shh, it's starting. Anyone talk and I'll shoot you." threatened AA-12. Nobody was willing to test her words, so they all remained silent as the radio started chattering.
"Hello, fellow dolls of Griffin! This is your host, the charming Kalina, and I welcome you to another night of Kalina's Consultation Office. I have a treat for all of you this round! I know that some girls in Griffin are very popular, but not everybody gets the chance to meet and interact with them. Well, today I managed to get two of those popular girls to spend some time with little ol' me."
"Please, do people really find me that dependable?"
"The numbers speak for themselves. So, as you all just heard, tonight I've finally convinced everyone's favourite cafe worker to stop by. Miss Springfield!"
"I apologize for not taking up your offer sooner, Kalin. With the cafe and assignments these days, the time didn't seem appropriate."
"Nothing to be sorry about Springfield. I know it's hard managing the cafe at base. And you always had a coffee ready for when I needed it, writing all those combat reports..."
"I'm glad you enjoy it. To tell the truth, today didn't appear like a day where I would have enough time to join at first, but there happened to be a power outage that left some parts of the base in the dark, including the cafe. The commander is currently working on it, but it is a shame, many won't get their evening coffee..."
"Yeah, unfortunate, but also ripe with opportunity! Had it not been so, you'd be too busy to come. Very lucky I'd say! Lucky for me, that is."
*mogu mogu mogu...*
"Oh, and of course, munching away here we have another very popular T-doll in Griffin. The heroine herself, SPAS12."
"Mmm… am I really that popular?"
"Of course. What other T-doll can kick cars around and eat 5 deluxe meals in a row?"
"Eheh, it's nothing special…"
"Helping yourself to the snacks Springfield brought, I see?"
"These are amazing! Did you make these yourself, Springfield?"
"Fufu, I thought it'd be better to take them along than put them in the freezer."
"Fwesh ouht de owhen, youwe de west, Sphinfield!"
"Ara, no talking with a full mouth, or no more snacks for you."
*gulp* "Right, sorry. Got a little carried away, eheh~"
"Well then, ladies. What would you like to talk about this lovely evening? I've got a few topics ready."
"Oh I dunno… *munch*… what sort of things do you usually debate here?"
"I'm glad you asked! Here on Kalina's Confession Office we open up about all sorts of subjects, seek guidance and advice, and generally take a step back from the difficulties of daily assignments. You're still girls after all, and girls like you and me gotta relax. So the best way how is with a steaming cup of coffee, tuned in to your favourite radio frequency… and memory foam neck pillows! Now on sale for loyal customers!"
"Hm? A neck rest… I dunno, I'd rather save my pay for something else."
"Oh? Like what?"
"Hm, there's this really good fast food place…"
"Fast food, huh? Maybe it's time to expand my catalogue~"
"But parts might be nice too. I was wondering about modifying my old shield, turn it into something more useful now that I've been outfitted with this awesome gear thanks to Griffin. Though, I suppose I can find parts for that in the field and around the base too… *munch*…"
"Oh? Modify your shield? I didn't know you were a tinkerer, Franchi."
"Hehe, I just find it kinda fun. I always modify my gear by myself. Though, the commander says it's troublesome to keep track of."
"A passion for technical modification, huh? Do you take commissions?"
"Miss Kalina…"
"J-just kidding! Anyway… how about we read some questions from our diligent viewers? Just give me a moment to randomize them..."
"Hm? Why do you pick them on random?"
"It's to give everyone a fair shot at getting their questions answered, since it's all sent anonymously. Though, that admittedly sometimes fails when the T-doll's writing is too recognizable. In those cases, I usually just invite the dolls here so they can be more open."
"Hmm, maybe M14 would be interested. She seemed a bit down lately."
"M14? Hard to imagine that, she's always so lively every time I see her... Has she tried your muffins?"
"She passed on those, actually."
"Whaaat? Is that even possible? But these are sooo good!"
"Hm? Are they really that good? Gimme some, I'm the host after all."
"Please, take some. There's plenty even for miss Franchi."
"Gee, now you're making me feel all self-conscious. Not fair."
"Danm, these really are good… *munch*... alright, next question is…"
"Oh, miss Kalin, you've got some bread crumbs on your cheeks~"
"Mm?"
"Fufu~ Hold still, I'll get those for you~"
"U-um, S-Spring…?"
"O-oh my…"
You don't quite remember how it ended. Whether you stuck around till the end or dozed off by then. After such a long day, the bed just felt so soft and comfortable. It wasn't just the bed that was soft either… but sadly, you weren't awake long enough to fully enjoy the synthetic padding~ Consciousness slips away into darkness. You are unaware how much time you spend inside this darkness before you open your inner eyes, finding yourself on that island within your digimind again. A place that is yours and only yours, simple yet meaningful.
Above you is the same encouraging radiance of Beta's sun, and before you is the same frightening endlessness of Gamma's sea. Opposing forces, with the solid ground you stand upon inbetween. You turn around to look at the island's mass, which still looks as simple as a virtual simulation, a landscape of basic geometric shapes, now with the addition of yellow lines and blue triangles.
You venture within, on your search for the two dummy links you have created to inhabit this space. Your footsteps echo against the light floor, simulating tiles. Someone else might get lost in here, but this is your own head, how could you possibly get lost here? You know where they are. They are at…
"Hey, Alpha!" called Beta.
"Took you awhile, chief." spoke Gamma.
At first glance it seemed they were just standing around a plain clearing, but as you approached you noticed a sudden drop in the ground. A hole, something you can't quite map… can't possibly be as deep as it is dark, right? The three of you look at it, perplexed by its nature.
"What is this?"
Γ: "You tell us, chief."
"You don't know?"
B: "Correct, Alpha. We are unaware of this anomaly's origins."
You crouch down near the pit, trying to spot anything within it, but it is too dark, even with the sun shining above you. Or rather, there is nothing to spot. It is just darkness, somehow manifested within your own digimind naturally. How can this be?
"Is this digimind damage?"
Γ: "Doubt it. It doesn't appear as a glitch, more like… missing space. Like something was here for a moment, and then it wasn't, leaving tracks in the system."
B: "Very agreeable. It is possible this is reserved space, should what previously filled it return."
"Return from where?"
B: "If you had to guess, the locked parts of your digimind. I have a feeling there's more than just memories locked behind there."
"What do you mean?"
B: "Alpha, do you remember that fight in the city? I believe something seems to have… awakened."
Yes, you remember that fight. Ouroboros was about to launch a volley of missiles at your allies. Realizing you didn't have enough time to come up with a strategy, you… made time. You're still not entirely sure what happened back there, you certainly didn't stop time itself like in some science fiction movie, but your perception of time certainly has accelerated to speeds that might've not been possible even for a doll. Human's often say that time slows down for them when they have an adrenaline rush, but that felt a lot more… conscious.
Γ: "Awakened is a shit way to describe it. You activated something, accident or not, and now your system doesn't know how to deal with it."
"Any idea what it was?"
Γ: "Probably a failsafe of some kind. If memory encryption is the last resort to being captured by the enemy, this may have been one of the things that comes before that. But this also left a mark. Checked your integrity lately, chief?"
An odd suggestion. You already spent quite a while in the repair station, and it left saying you were fully repaired. Surely you were at max… but as you check your systems, you notice that your integrity is only 99% percent. The missing percent appears to be… unknown internal damage? What does that even mean?
B: "It is merely a placeholder, Alpha." explains Beta "We are unable to locate the damage. Checking every system individually only returns green lights, yet the overall integrity remains the same. It is as if we were unable to locate an entire system which is still being summarized in a full body check."
Γ: "To actually address the issue… you fucked up somewhere, chief." accused Gamma "You almost fried your digimind keeping up that hyper-cognitive state, and something probably did end up fried, something we don't even know you had. But you always manage to do something like that, so it's nothing new. Not much we can do about this really, except keep digging."
"So now what?"
Γ: "Well… didn't you come here with something specific in mind?"
Of course, the dummy splitting. You decided you could use another one, if not for conversation then to better analyze your situation. So…
"Right… who do I need to 'pull' then?"
B: "Me!" said Beta with a cheerful smile, extending her hand towards you "I'm sure you are already familiar with the process. But do not worry, I won't be going anywhere. It was a good idea to bring Epsilon back, it never hurts to be a little more straightforward."
Γ: "Still would've preferred Delta. She actually does some thinking, if not more thinking than chief herself. Definitely more than Epsilon."
Gamma complains, as is her nature, but you've already made your decision. And with Beta's encouragement, you take her hand. Her touch was gentle, warm, almost enticing you to squeeze. Her eyes, green like yours yet with a yellowish accent, urged you to go on. It's as if every fibre of her being radiated encouragement, believing in everything you do and giving you comfort. She does her job well.
You pull, seeing the same effect as last time you did this, like you're pulling the ghost out of her. The separation is bright, two very similar entities splitting from each other. Once it is done, your vision clears to gaze upon the two. The main question of course, is whether it worked. Though, the smile upon Beta's face speaks for itself, as you both look at the newcomer.
E: "Phew… huh, guys? Guys! We're back, yeah!"
Already you're met with much more excitement than with the last two. You gaze upon the new dummy, a mirror image with its slight differences. The poncho, just like the others', was displaying a different pattern, pentagons adding to its aesthetic. Her hair was completely loose, no hairpins or extra stuff, just a lilac haze in the wind. There was a streak of green in her hair, same with her eyes. But you would soon get a closer look as she ran towards you with open arms, taking you in for a hug. Not an unwelcome one, of course, hugging cute girls is an instinct. But isn't it a little bit narcissistic when said girl is yourself?
Eh, it's probably fine.
E: "Hehe, so great to be back. You still remember me, right Alp? Epsilon, impulse incarnate!"
Now the hugging makes sense. Impulse, intuition, one's first thought before anything. Not exactly instinct, as that carries a bit of restraint with it. Your first thought upon seeing a situation that begs an action, regardless of available intel or possible consequence. To act on impulse is to act first and think later. So, say you're met with an irresistibly cute girl, you've got that sudden impulse to hug her. Of course, typically you've got a brain that tells you to stop before you embarrass yourself. Epsilon lacks that. Not to say she lacks a brain, you've got the same brain, she just goes always with the first plan. Who knows, maybe that cute girl you wanna hug really likes hugs, and it works out better than if you had wasted time thinking about it. That's her theory at least…
E: "Geez, still thinking hard as always Alp. Welp, I'm here to fix that!"
She says with a wink, loosening on the hug. Beta gives you a thumbs up, but Gamma doesn't seem all too amused.
Γ: "Well, here you go chief, an utterly useless dummy link for you. Delta would've been so much more useful, you know."
"Gam! Don't think I forgot about you!" said Epsilon, releasing you and making grabby motions towards Gamma "Nobody hugged you in a while, huh?"
Γ: "Wha-? Oh no, nononNO-"
Before she could react, she was already upon her. With the quick pitter patter of her bare feet and a soft *pumf*, their bodies collided, though one of them isn't very into the high impact hug.
E: "Mmm, hugs are the best! Don't you agree?"
Γ: "... you want me to disagree with that?"
E: "Oh, whoops… hehe~"
Ah, show and tell. Same scenario, one variable, two different outcomes. Should you hug everyone outright because they might like it? Or should you hug no-one because they might not like it? Those are questions that never go through Epsilon's head.
Γ: "Chief, is it too late to switch dummies?"
E: "Aww, now you sound like a tsundere!"
Γ: "... delete me chief. Do it. Now."
Of course, the same principle applies to the mouth filter. Meaning, there is none. In a way, Epsilon is the most pure you, in tune with your desires. Perhaps it's a good thing you don't have any physical dummies yet…
[ ] "Alright, that's enough Epsilon."
[X] "What? Can't handle a little self-love?"
[ ] "This is so weird, I am confusing myself here."
[ ] Write-in
E: "Oh, by the way, what's this hole about?"
Asks the newest dummy as she lets go of Gamma, looking right over its edge. The hole you already discussed with the others, which means it is your knowledge now, and by extension hers. So why is she asking? Is it really her intuition to ask rather than just access data?
B: "We do not know. We believe it to be something from the locked systems of the Alpha's digimind, reserved space if you will. For now, all we can do is wait and obse-"
Before Beta could finish her summary, your attention was brought to a high pitched, excited yell, and as you turned your gaze you could only see the frame of your newest dummy diving into the dark depths. Your eyes have probably never widened more despite being asleep.
"Did… did she just...?"
E: "Hey, guys!" echoed her voice from within the pit "This place… really isn't all that deep. Locked systems you said? I was expecting some cool secrets, but there ain't really anything down here…"
While you sighed in relief that nothing really happened, your other two dummies were busy checking over the system, having noticed something.
B: "Hmm… it seems Epsilon has confirmed our suspicions, Alpha. Despite her being clearly active, we cannot detect a single trace of her while she's within that space."
Γ: "More like she ceased existing altogether… the heck have you spawned, chief?"
"You tell me."
E: "So, um… mind giving me a hand out of here?" called the almost ignored dummy still within the pit.
B: "Of course. Let's construct some rope and get Epsilon out."
Γ: "Fuck rope. Get a ladder."
The two start manipulating code and using the system, same as you or any doll would within their digimind. Pretty much any physical object can be simulated here, like rope or ladders, though it will always lack the infinite detail of reality. Good enough to serve its purpose though.
Speaking of simulation… the landscape has changed once again. Green as your intuition, patches of grass have sprouted out of nowhere. It was odd to see any sort of realistic fauna growing out of the glowing ground, but at the same time it seemed quite natural. It varied in height, keeping quite short around the walkways but growing taller around the larger geometric shapes, in some cases growing on them like moss. You can only imagine what it must feel like to run through and feel the grass brush against you, or lay down and gaze into the sky, without thinking, just enjoying the moment. But then you spotted new structures, the likes of which you've never seen before. Far beyond the simple geometric shapes that create most of the island. From the grass threw threads, long and branching ones, growths that spread from one surface to another. Yet as random as their direction appeared, there was a sense of structure, a sense or architecture, mostly growing in columns with various twists and turns. They appeared very similar to wet wool threads, seeming natural in many ways… wait, wet wool threads? Why would you know something so specific? It is highly unlikely Epsilon herself knows, even though those are her structures. Quite odd… but you suppose this is nothing out of the ordinary. In fact, you're only getting closer to what was once ordinary with every step.
But then you felt something prodding at your sensors, something on the outside. Was it morning already? You look at your internal clock, but it is way too early for anyone to be getting up. Still, it continues…
E: "Hey, I feel that too! Let's check it out Alp!" called your intuition. Well, now's as good a time as any to test out her advice.
--- early morning ---
You awaken. Your eyes open slowly, as it is way earlier than you were planning to get up. The room was still quite dark, only the faintest of morning light shining through the windows. It was also quiet, aside from the soft breathing of 4 other dolls, two of which were quite close. You are positive you didn't fall asleep in this position, and it is unknown who snuggled up to who, but with Tiss' head against your stomach and your own on AA-12's shoulder, it wasn't at all bad. AA-12 was hugging the pillow in her sleep, which likely explained why you and the secret weapon needed to find other soft headrests. But everyone kept their hands respectfully to themselves, it was just the three of you sharing a single bed due to lack of space. Even though one someone could've brought over a bedroll...
Comfortable as you are, you raise your head to scan the room for said disturbance. It must've been something bigger than a snore, but not so big as to wake the dolls that were doing less taxing things in their sleep than you. And surely enough, you found the disturbance. Two golden orbs, staring at you from the open door frame. Of course, with the most secret doll in the base snoozing against your belly, the only one silent enough would be her sister. She notices your green orbs staring back as they adjust to the darkness. Once you make out her frame, she gestures for you to come along, but puts a finger before her mouth, urging you to do so quietly.
Since you are a nimble SMG with secrets of your own, you are more than capable of this. With some gentle pushes, you depart with the softness of the bed and its inhabitants, slipping into your shoes without waking any of the dolls. Then you followed Groza out of the room, the door closing behind you quietly.
She gestures for you to follow her. You have no idea why, but her silence probably means she doesn't want to disturb the sleep of anyone else. You'd be wondering why she isn't asleep, if you didn't know she was a night owl. This is probably just evening for her.
Finally, you appear to reach a part of the hallways she seems to be comfortable with, even if it was still pretty dark here. She turned around to face you, though her gaze was… different. Serious. Cold.
"Veresk…" she began, reaching for something within her pocket "... can you explain this to me?"
What she displayed within her hand was a device. Not just any device… the detonator. The one you kept. She went through your things...
"..."
"... scans indicate that the device has not been used once, remains undamaged and completely functional, despite it being in your possession. You admitted to hearing my order to set off the charges."
"Like I said, I was confronted with Ouroboros and couldn't-"
"But you got away. What stopped you from activating it afterwards?" her words were firm, strict and professional "You hid this, willingly. Veresk, did you disobey a direct order?"
… the cat's out the bag now…
[ ] "... I've made a deal with Ouroboros. She would temporarily pull out, allowing us to retreat, and I wouldn't blow up her jammer."
[ ] "You mean the order to blow up a building which, at the time, was full of my squadmates? Then yes, I disobeyed."
[ ] "There are things you still do not know about me, Ots-14. I cannot tell you why or how, but I can assure you that I only acted in everyone's best interests."
[ ] "I have orders I cannot disobey. Orders with higher authority than yours. Higher even than the commander's. I was hoping to keep it a secret, but…"
[ ] "You got me. Can't say I'm surprised it turned out to be you... you see, I never really was part of Griffin. But that doesn't mean I'm your enemy either. So it wouldn't be treason if the two of us were to make some sort of deal, would it?"
[X] Write-in: "Ouroboros had our dead-to rights. The only reason she left you off, all of us was because I threatened her with blowing the jammer- and that same jammer's protection was her only directive. My squad-mates safety is of high priority to me, so I made a deal with her. Oh, and I planned on honoring it, just that I'd give the detonator to you. Recall, when you talked about completing our objective, I did clearly point out that doing so would carry a risk of Sangvis going hard after us right afterward... And you just had Tiss whip out the second detonator right that instant. Not even asking if I still had it..." you sigh heavily "Taking it out then would just be stupid, and I'd have to explain everything in front of everyone. So I let it rest, and keep the whole thing to myself. No point in having everyone stressed out over how close they got to a bad end."
[X] "What? Can't handle a little self-love?"
[X] Write-in: "Ouroboros had our dead-to rights. The only reason she left you off, all of us was because I threatened her with blowing the jammer- and that same jammer's protection was her only directive. My squad-mates safety is of high priority to me, so I made a deal with her. Oh, and I planned on honoring it, just that i'd give the detonator to you. Recall, when you talked about completing our objective, I did clearly point out that doing so would carry a risk of Sangvis going hard after us right afterward... And you just had Tiss whip out the second detonator right that instant. Not even asking if I still had it..." Heavy sigh. "Taking it out then would just be stupid, and I'd have to explain everything in front of everyone. So I let it rest, and keep the whole thing to myself. No point in having everyone stressed out over how close they got to a bad end."
Huh, I remember thinking that, but it looks like I never actually called it.
Its hard to decide which part of the truth to feed her... and she's likely expecting that as well. With this our suspicion levels just skyrocketed, which means we'll have a heavy eye on us now.
"...How to put it? ...I need SO6 cleared, whether by Griffin or Sangvis Ferris didn't matter. I chose Griffin because I like you guys more and I'm here to help with that. But that's the thing, I'm here because I like all of you and I couldn't trust that order wasn't a contingency from your commander to destroy the objective even if it cost you your squads. You I trust, your commander though? I'm loyal to my comrades, not a protocol in my head."
[X] "What? Can't handle a little self-love?"
[X] "You mean the order to blow up a building which, at the time, was full of my squadmates? Then yes, I disobeyed."
