Girl's Frontline: Wicked Animandum

I, on the other hand, am all for it. I don't like what we did to AA-12, should've just "No Gods, No Masters" her in the first place.


[X] "MP5, wanna do the honors?"
[X] "Fair. Let's hurry then."
 
[X] "MP5, wanna do the honors?"

Ugh. The write in I want to say wouldn't make logical sense given the cut-off at update's end, so I'll have to settle with:
[X] "No deal. I need assurance that you won't run off or kill me the second you get the chance. Once we make it out of here alive, then we can talk about terms and conditions."
 
Hmm... don't quite want to stab her in the back after the whole promising to do no worse to her than AA-12. But given how fickle our favourite snek is, some assurance may be needed.

Taking her word for it after she's betrayed her allies multiple times, would probably be pretty silly from her perspective too >.>
It wouldn't be worse than what we did to AA-12, just on the same level. What we did to AA-12 was assign ourselves as her owner without her knowledge or permission. Oreo is already better off with having a choice and all, even if we were to lie and set ourselves as her owner. So there's no going back on any promises, V is smart like that.

'Tis a choice of reasonable precautions or reasonable fairness. But do consider who we're dealing with here...~
[X] Write-in: "Then, I have a condition of my own. Your word will be your own from now on, so you promise me that you wont lay your life in vain, and that you'll fight with as much spirit as you did when you faced me that." Reach out hand "Deal?"

Well, there were underlying reasons for Oeros behavior, many of them reactions to SF orders and actions towards her. She was designed to be the superior tactician, but instead had to operate within the limits of SF's leash which also saw her as nothing more than another cog to their operation, completely ignoring her own personality, goals, and shortcomings.
Given that SF is perfectly capable of working around those constraints as shown by teaming up the Scarecrow/Hunter/Executioner trio, its almost as if someone wanted Oero to fail horribly at what she was meant to do.

On the other hand we have Heather, who's actually faced her off on equal ground, showed her the minimum of respect you normally wouldn't expect from an enemy, and who is now actually giving her a chance when everyone else turned their back on her.
I'd say this loyalty through a promise will be worth more to V than just tugging and fighting Oeros leash at every turn.
Don't forget that even though conditions might've not been ideal for her, the whole operation's fuckup was all Oreo's fault. She made a lot of shitty choices and disobeyed multiple direct orders, and straight up lied to her superiors. Of course, V only knows part of the story, but it's still enough to paint Oreo as being at fault.

As for how she'd react to loyalty through promise, can't spoil anything. But concerning the leash thing, keep in mind that it could just be a temporary precaution. You gotta train your snek first before you can trust it to follow you, though it is true that it could be an unwieldy one start running the second the leash is off, requiring a deeper method. Either way, the judgement is yours.

Btw, might wanna re-read your write-in? Feels like you got a stroke towards the end XD
Fair enough. I, however, lean towards making all Dolls the captains of their souls. I'm radical like that.
A noble goal. Though, do keep in mind that freedom can also come gradually, not just immediately. I doubt people shackled AA-12 to us with the intention of keeping her a slave forever... well, most people :p. But it's true that taking such precautions could diminish trust, and split the roads of freedom and loyalty. When to use which is up to our little V here (so you guys).
Ugh. The write in I want to say wouldn't make logical sense given the cut-off at update's end, so I'll have to settle with:
[X] "No deal. I need assurance that you won't run off or kill me the second you get the chance. Once we make it out of here alive, then we can talk about terms and conditions."
What do you mean with that? What kind of write-in did you have in mind?
 
so we really shouldn't spend a lot of time talking with Ouroboros, UMP 45 might be close especially because in cannon she walked in just after Agent finished her talk to Ouroboros.

Also letting Ouroboros have full freedom might backfire on us, her situation is a bit different to AA-12, we need a bit more control over her just to make sure she doesn't try and backstab us at the first chance.
 
Also letting Ouroboros have full freedom might backfire on us, her situation is a bit different to AA-12, we need a bit more control over her just to make sure she doesn't try and backstab us at the first chance.
I believe that shes intelligent enough to be able to realize she needs resources to survive, which includes something as basic as food.
Or not looking like a murderbot from SF terrorizing southern Europe.
Or munitions.
Or parts...
Yeah. I think realizations are going to be a big part of Oeros character for the foreseeable future.
 
[X] "Would you do the honors, oh secret weapon?"
[X] Write-in: "Then, I have a condition of my own. Your word will be your own from now on, so you promise me that you wont lay your life in vain, and that you'll fight with as much spirit as you did when you faced me that." Reach out hand "Deal?"

Best combo
 
[X] "Would you do the honors, oh secret weapon?"
[X] Write-in: "Then, I have a condition of my own. Your word will be your own from now on, so you promise me that you wont lay your life in vain, and that you'll fight with as much spirit as you did when you faced me that." Reach out hand "Deal?"
 
SR-2 Veresk lines
So, me and the discord bois (mostly me tho) decided to give Veresk's voice lines another though. And I got a little carried away, and... well, not only does she have an updated full set now, but her dummies do too! Writing these is way too fun, and there's gonna be new ones with every new dummy added. Might update some lines as well if I feel the characters change/get a better grip on them. Either way, have a laugh at these, and feel free to add some suggestions ^^

Acquisition: "So, you're the new boss? SR-2 Veresk, nice to meet you. What? Don't worry, I've got no ulterior motives this time around... Well, none that would keep us apart, that is~"

Introduction: "Veresk SR-2 electronic warfare specialist. Eh~ Even if that's what I was designed for, all I ever did was industrial espionage and information gathering. Most people call me Heather, though I also sometimes go by V. A pleasure to work with you!"

Talk 1: "Need something special? I'll see what I can get my hands on."

Talk 2: "No Epsilon, I am not going to do that. No, I don't care how shiny it is… mostly."

Talk 3: "You know, not even Hunter was this handsy with me, and she was practically all over me."

Talk 4 (post-Oath): "Did you see something you like, commander? Just tell me, and it could be ours."

Oath: "So, not only have I stolen your Dolls, I've also stolen your heart as well. My charm is just too much, huh? Don't worry, I take good care of my belongings~"

Greeting: "I wasn't expecting you right now... Of course it's safe, I'm a professional!"

T-doll produced: "She fell off the back of a truck. Yes, that's what happened, nothing more."

Joining an echelon: "Oh, a new team? I'll try and keep them out of trouble."

Enhancement: "This is mine now, you know you're not getting it back."

Dummy linking: "Now I've got another voice in my head... don't worry, I'm quite used to it."

Start logistics: "I get a finders' fee, right?"

End logistics: "I'm back. I'll be in my room... cleaning..."

Auto battle: "Don't worry, I won't do anything too illegal... well, nothing that can be traced back here, at least."

Beginning mission: "Remember: fight smart, fight well."

Starting battle: "They spotted us, get ready."

Skill 1: "Try to stay in one piece."

Skill 2: "Catch!"

Skill 3: "I've only got enough explosives for some of you, the rest can share."

Heavily damaged: "No no, let's not do it nice and quiet, let's alert everyone..."

Retreat: "Join Griffin they said, it will be fun they said..."

MVP: "Hard work pays off. I'm getting first pick."

Repair: "This stings... could you send me a cutie for moral support?"

Halloween: "Trick or treat? No, no, no~ It's stun grenade or loot~ Or should we see what the Secret Weapon has in store?~"

Christmas: "Here's your gift, commander. Stolen? Well that's just rude, I worked very hard to get you this."

New Year's: "New Year's, huh? Now that's cause for celebration. Hm? Epsilon? Fireworks…? Oh boy, this can only end badly…"

Valentine's: "You wanted chocolate instead of a lollipop? I could give it to AA-12... oh, so you are keeping it~"

Tanabata: "I don't really care much for making wishes. If I want something, I work towards it and get it myself. But… commander, if you tell me your wish, perhaps we can work towards achieving it together?~"

Acquisition: "Oh, is it my turn? Greetings commander. As per our dear Alpha's request, you may refer to me as Beta. I shall support and encourage you in everything that you do."

Introduction: "As Beta, it is my role as an advisor that supports your every decision and agrees wholeheartedly with everything that you say. Some may call it blind devotion, but whenever you need that one little push to do the right thing, no matter how crazy or foolish it may seem, I'll be right there with you. In short, leave moral support to me."

Talk 1: "Hm, yes, I agree. Very good decision, commander."

Talk 2: "You know, I'm responsible for the sun and its warmth within the Alpha's digimind. Doesn't the dawn of the new day just fill you with determination?"

Talk 3: "Hm? You want my encouragement during this as well? Very well, go ahead. If that's what you want, it's only right~"

Talk 4 (post-Oath): "You wish for more encouragement? Very well. How about you rest your head here, under the warm sun's rays? I'm sure you'll feel more determined afterwards."

Oath: "Oh my, is my advice really so useful? All I ever do is cheer you on, no matter what. I suppose for me to receive some encouragement in return is only fair, hm? Of course, I agree with everything."

Greeting: "Greetings, Commander. What do you wish to do first?"

T-doll produced: "Our numbers are increasing. Should I provide moral support to them as well?"

Joining an echelon: "Tell me the plan, and I'll agree with every single point~"

Enhancement: "Splendid. Moral support will be increased. Would you like some right now?"

Dummy linking: "I support this decision. Dear Alpha cannot get enough of our support."

Start logistics: "If you require moral support while I'm away, you can always call."

End logistics: "Logistics successful. I told you it was a good decision."

Auto battle: "To let battles commence automatically while you take care of other matters, what a great decision."

Beginning mission: "Support ready. We can move out."

Starting battle: "I will offer support whenever applicable!"

Skill 1: "We can do this, everyone!"

Skill 2: "Trust in yourselves!"

Skill 3: "I've got your back!"

Heavily damaged: "Ah, cannot support… much more…"

Retreat: "Retreat! There is no shame in this course of action!"

MVP: "Oh dear, wasn't I supposed to do the cheering?"

Repair: "It is only your fault if you blame yourself… do not worry, I'll be providing more support soon."

Halloween: "Of course, there's no such thing as too old for trick or treating! Do what you- huh? What's with that sudden change of opinion? I'll agree with you either way, but... you'd feel more encouraged with some candy, right?"

Christmas: "I'm sure she'll like this present. Really, no need to doubt yourself! So, next on the list is… me? I… oh dear, of course I like it!"

New Year's: "Oh, commander, you're thinking about some New Year's resolutions, are you? That's a great idea. I'll support you every step of the way, even into the next year."

Valentine's: "Why do all the chocolates say yes? Because that is my answer to everything, commander. How about you? If I ask how they taste, will you agree with them?"

Tanabata: "You don't think wishes are silly? It's good to believe in such things from time to time. Care to tell me yours? Maybe you need a little bit of encouragement to make one. As for my wish… to be able to support the commander and Alpha every day is enough for me."

Acquisition: "New chief, huh? Told her this is a bad idea… oh well, call me Gamma. Whatever you're thinking, don't. It probably won't get you anywhere."

Introduction: "No chief, my role is not to be all negative. It's to disagree with you and discourage you from anything you might wanna do. Why? Because sometimes you need someone to talk you out of a really stupid decision, or get you out of a real dumb mind set. Hm? That's the same thing as being negative? No, I just said…"

Talk 1: "I disagree. That won't work. Seriously? That's because… should I make it more simple?"

Talk 2: "In the original chief's digimind, I'm responsible for the ocean. It's big, wast, looks endless. Anyone who ever had the stupid idea of crossing it just needs to take one look and they'll be running straight back. Of course, that doesn't stop Epsilon from surfing on the violent waves. Some idiots just never learn."

Talk 3: "I'mma keep it real with you chief, keep on going like you're going, and you're gonna regret it. Really, do you have to be so straightforward about everything?"

Talk 4 (post-Oath): "You know chief, I'm starting to think you're enjoying my constant belating of your decisions and beliefs… and your denial of it makes me even more convinced. Hm? A tsundere response...? Oh, you idiot! That's not what I am at all, and you know that very well!"

Oath: "So, you really do value some of my advice… you do realize that I will disagree with this decision too, right? Oh, so you're gonna go against it anyway? Great, now I'm running out of ways to discourage you. Only fitting that an idiot like you could make me fail my base programming… still, I can't stop you, never could. Go ahead. Just remember, you'll never get rid of my correcting your mistakes now… hey, what's with that smile?"

Greeting: "You overslept. No, you're not on time."

T-doll produced: "Chief, the doll I told you not to get is ready."

Joining an echelon: "This one? Dumb decision, but ok."

Enhancement: "Bad decision, chief. Now my ability to discourage you only gets better."

Dummy linking: "More of us? You've got enough. And why this one? Ugh, you drive me mad…"

Start logistics: "Once I'm back, you'll hear all about how this was a dumb decision."

End logistics: "Things went well. What do you mean I was wrong? There's always a chance of things going to shit, and I was belating you for ignoring it. You just got lucky this time."

Auto battle: "Yeah, just let the dolls handle it themselves without a commander, genius. Can you feel the sarcasm yet?"

Beginning mission: "We still aren't ready- oh, you started it. No turning back now."

Starting battle: "We could've avoided this…"

Skill 1: "Carrying out stupid orders!"

Skill 2: "Not like that! Like this!"

Skill 3: "Take a glance at how things could've gone my way!"

Heavily damaged: "Well well well... if it isn't… the consequence of your decisions…"

Retreat: "See? This is exactly what I was talking about."

MVP: "This would happen more often if you heed my advice. Getting lucky doesn't count."

Repair: "You see? Yeah, this is your fault. No, apologizing won't help… N-no, a hug won't either…"

Halloween: "No, don't you dare go trick-or-treating. Who talked you into this, Beta? Seriously, do I even need to explain why that's a stupid thing for an adult to do? And no, you won't pull me along, even if you give me a share of the candy."

Christmas: "Presents, huh? No, that one won't work for her. Hm? You wanna know why? Only if you'll actually listen this time... oh, deal? Heh, it really is Christmas."

New Year's: "Chief. Those are your New Year's resolutions? I'll keep it real with you, those kinda suck. Here's how you can whip them into shape… huh? Asking Beta to help you with them? Even after a whole year, how can you be this stupid?!"

Valentine's: "Every chocolate says no, because I already know what you're thinking, and the answer is always no. But here's some advice… if I ask you about whether the taste is good, you better not agree with them."

Tanabata: "Lot's of dolls making wishes today, even some of the original chief's dummies… hey, don't you feel encouraged to make a wish too now. It's a dumb concept. How about some hard work instead? Maybe you'll actually get something done that way."

Delta - locked

Acquisition: "Commander! Hi! I'm Epsilon, but you can call me Epsi! Oh, am I shaking your hand too vigorously? It's just my first instinct to shake it. But now that I got a good look at you, how about a hug?"

Introduction: "Hm? Oh, right, introductions. I embody Alpha's intuition and instinct! Sometimes, thinking is just too long, too boring, and doesn't get you anywhere. I do whatever first comes to mind! Act first, think later. If at all, hehe~"

Talk 1: "There there, thinking too much just gets in the way. Do whatever first comes to mind! Speaking of which, let's get some strawberry cake!"

Talk 2: "I guess being all action makes me more emotion driven too. Like, when I see something cute, I wanna hug it and pet it straight away. If I wanna say something, I say it. Hm? Does that mean I can get angry or start crying easily? Now that's just rude!"

Talk 3: "Mmm. Just like that commander, don't worry about people looking… hmm? You wanna check that out? Me too~"

Talk 4 (post-Oath): "Hehehe… what's the saying again? If you like it, why don't you put a ring on it? Well, I'm glad you just went ahead and did it, commander. Alpha would've probably fiddled around in place before doing something like this. Every time I think about it, I just wanna hug you again… hm? So why don't I just do it then? Hehe, you asked for it~"

Oath: "Wow, this place looks so nice! The grass reminds me of the grass I'm responsible for in Alpha's digimind, so soft. Commander, wanna lay down?... hm? Wha… WHAWHAWHAAAA?! Oh god YES! I accept! Now hug me! HUG ME AND NEVER LET GO!"

Greeting: "Hey there! Hm? Did I do anything rash? Gee, you worry too much~"

T-doll produced: "Hey there, newbie! I'm Epsi! Oh, what soft, supple thighs! Touch!~"

Joining an echelon: "Oh, a team! Let's get along, everyone! How about a group hug?"

Enhancement: "More power, nice! I wanna try it out right away!"

Dummy linking: "It's not narcissistic to want to hug yourself. Not at all."

Start logistics: "I promise not to get distracted while on logistics duty- oh my god is that a Dinnergate?!"

End logistics: "I'm baaack! I totally didn't spend half the time laying in the grass…"

Auto battle: "Battle without supervision? That must mean it's a no brainer. Perfect for me!"

Beginning mission: "You take care of the thinking, I'll do the doing."

Starting battle: "Time to kick butt! Watch me go!"

Skill 1: "You get a grenade! And you get a grenade!"

Skill 2: "Got'cha!"

Skill 3: "Here I come!"

Heavily damaged: "Ouch, ouch! Timeout! I bit off too much!"

Retreat: "Uh-oh, probably should've thought that through… nah, it'll be fine."

MVP: "Yes, I'm best girl! This means extra snacks, right?"

Repair: "I want some cake- oh, right, repair… ouch, it stings! Commander, hold my hand please!"

Halloween: "Boo! Trick or treat! Hm? Where I got this costume? I think I saw it hung up in the dorm, so I took it... hm? What do you mean about a doll running around naked looking for her costume? Ah, you're thinking too much again, commander. Gimmie candy already!"

Christmas: "We wish you a merry Christmas, and a happy New Year~ Ah, I can't stop singing that song… oh? You're preparing presents, commander? Lemme see mine! Hm? I can't until it's time? But I wanna see now!"

New Year's: "Huff… oh, commander! No, don't worry, I can carry this on my own. I wanna join the fireworks from the roof! Just gotta drag all these to the elevator and… huh? Elevator's down? I gotta use the stairs? Uuuuuu…"

Valentine's: "Commander, today's a day of hugs and kisses! All these cuties confessing to each other, I wonder if Alpha will finally… hm? Chocolates? I think I started making some, but then I got distracted, so I just have the mixture. It's still tasty tho! Try it!"

Tanabata: "I wish for a big bowl of pudding. And I wish for an AA-12 bodypillow. And… oh, commander! Come, make a wish with me!"

Wau - locked

Lot's of dummies yet to go. Let's catch em all, lads~
 
Don't forget that even though conditions might've not been ideal for her, the whole operation's fuckup was all Oreo's fault. She made a lot of shitty choices and disobeyed multiple direct orders, and straight up lied to her superiors. Of course, V only knows part of the story, but it's still enough to paint Oreo as being at fault.
As correct as you are, Agent's cool behaviour and exact words -
"I simply… understand your thought process very well. Do you have any last words?"
- always made suspect that Ourobouros was set up to fail in some capacity.

When I read those words, I couldn't help but wonder whether Agent saw Ourobouros' admittedly very great flaws (the megalomania and the complete lack of concern towards subordinates) and put her in a situation where her neuroses would undercut the operation, then used that as a pretext to leave her to the wolves.


[X] "Would you do the honors, oh secret weapon?"
[X] Write-in: "Then, I have a condition of my own. Your word will be your own from now on, so you promise me that you wont lay your life in vain, and that you'll fight with as much spirit as you did when you faced me that." Reach out hand "Deal?"


I'm all for saving Snek from her canon fate.
 
As correct as you are, Agent's cool behavior and exact words -

- always made suspect that Ouroboros was set up to fail in some capacity.

When I read those words, I couldn't help but wonder whether Agent saw Ouroboros' admittedly very great flaws (the megalomania and the complete lack of concern towards subordinates) and put her in a situation where her neuroses would undercut the operation, then used that as a pretext to leave her to the wolves.
Valid observation. Though, I see it a bit differently. I wouldn't say Agent set her up from the beginning, but rather, she knew of the risks. The things set in place to make sure the jammer wouldn't be destroyed were just precautions for if Oreo fucks up. The mission may have been more of a test for Oreo, one that if she didn't pass wouldn't cost SF much more than a Ringleader that just proved herself to be useless to them. That jammer was hella important, after all.

So, even if SF set up a rather cruel fail-safe, it was still Oreo's fault it came to that. Had she just followed orders, she'd be fine. You don't play war like chess. You shouldn't sacrifice the one thing you were ordered to protect to achieve more personal goals.

So how about we teach her other games than chess, eh? XD
 
Talk 4 (post-Oath): "Did you see something you like, commander? Just tell me, and it could be ours."
Oath: "So, not only have I stolen your Dolls, I've also stolen your heart as well. My charm is just too much, huh? Don't worry, I take good care of my belongings~"
It's official.
Everyone gets a V!

You don't play war like chess. You shouldn't sacrifice the one thing you were ordered to protect to achieve more personal goals.
Tell that to war planners and civilian administrations ;)

- always made suspect that Ourobouros was set up to fail in some capacity.
Heh. What if there was a separate sub-plot centered around an SF-ringleader conspiracy (corner of the base walled off by duct-taped cardboard) aimed at ensuring Ouroboros failed since she was designed to replace them all as a superior model?

Sometime in the future Agent to Oero:
Agent: Hunter fought the way she fought so you would fail. Scarecrow designed her plans so you would fail. I made you the way you are, so you would fail. Now please kindly cease this embarrassing display and stop struggling like those Griffin dolls, so I can dispose of you like the failure you were meant to be.
 
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[X] Write-in: "Then, I have a condition of my own. Your word will be your own from now on, so you promise me that you wont lay your life in vain, and that you'll fight with as much spirit as you did when you faced me." Reach out hand "Deal?"
 
Woooooooooooo, guess who got through half of their exams? And the hardest ones, at that. This guyyyy! I'm almost clear to completely waste a few weeks of my life on video games and writing again, just gotta go through a few more tests. In the meantime, how about I get back into the swing of things and give y'all the update you've been waiting for?

This one was pretty fun to write. Designing the digiminds of dolls is always a blast, makes me wish I could go back and do AA-12 some justice. Welp, there's always next time.

Enjoy this update. Soon(ish), it'll be time to say goodbye to Area S06, and begin a whole new arc in the tale of lil' V ^^
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Jan 21, 2021 at 6:36 AM, finished with 24 posts and 12 votes.
 
Chapter 92
Ouroboros looks at the outstretched hand, an offering of help, a deal that may rescue her from this sad fate she got herself into. After a moment of hesitation, she takes it. Despite your small frame, you help her back on her feet. You notice the two wheel-like explosive ordnance launchers, although damaged, were still mobile. No doubt low on ammo and power though.

"A promise for a promise, deal. What now?"

"Lower your digimind's defenses, I'll get in and quickly do my thing. Then we get the hell out of here."

Still holding your hand, the ringleader nods and closes her eyes, configuring her internal systems to accommodate for the soon to be visitor, that being you.

"Just try not to get lost, my digimind's architecture is a hundred times more advanced than that of some cheap IOP model."

"I'll try not to take up too much space then~"

--- inside the digimind of SPX Ouroboros ---

The whole process of dropping a consciousness level and integrating yourself into her digimind only took a few seconds. Unlike last time, this time around you're racing against the clock, not having a comfortable nap. A minute in here is just a few seconds out there, but it puts strain on your own digimind, so you've got to hurry.

Initializing...

The brightness surrounding you is being dispelled bit by bit, revealing more and more of the architecture that you found yourself in. To your surprise, it does look quite a bit different from systems you hooked up to previously. You can still tell these are the systems of a doll, but quite a bit different from IOP T-dolls.

The light-constructed ground were tiles of black and white, checkered. Smooth, like chiselled from granite. The sky wasn't really a sky, but a sky-high ceiling of data routes and conduits, perceivable as crimson-red lines lighting up the dark beyond. The geometrical structures that usually litter such a digiscape range from simple rectangles to slightly twisting shapes, architecture that seems fitting for Sangvis Ferri, especially with that black metallic color, which has a dark red shine to it. More notable though are the various statues of chess pieces placed around, varying in size and between black and white colors. Lastly, there were odd railings-like tracks trailing through corridors a few meters above the ground, held up by seemingly nothing. If you had to guess, maybe it's a track for toy cars, if she's already playing around with chess pieces…

"Nice place you got. Quite roomy."

"As if you've ever seen anything similar." spoke the host of this place, the ringleader emerging from behind a corner. She looked a lot better in here, undamaged and clean. Then again, damage in here only shows itself as the glitching of certain body parts, that being digimind damage. Seeing as she's not glitching out, she must be fine on this side at least. "I've disabled the firewalls and locked off sources of parapluie. This path should lead straight to my central processing unit, and the control center."

E: "Yay! Let's go then!"

Your words rang, but not from your mouth. From behind you, the jolly and enthusiastic Epsilon emerged, already skipping her way ahead. And as if that wasn't enough…

B: "Indeed, this architecture is unlike anything the Alpha has seen before…"

Γ: "Eh, the chief has seen bigger."

The two polar opposites emerged as well, observing your surroundings as they walked ahead, passing a thoroughly confused Ouroboros. You let out a small sigh as you approach.

"Sorry about that, forgot to mention they'll be joining us."

The confusion on the ringleader's face does not subside. In fact, it worsens.

"W-who are they? Why do they look like you? What the hell is going on?"

You chuckle at her flurry of question, gesturing for her to come along before she gets left behind thinking too hard. While your dummies ahead are taking in the scenery, you explain.

"Long story short, they're virtual dummy programs I've created to take care of larger processing loads. They'll be helping us take care of this faster."

"Virtual dummies? This is the first time I've heard of such a technique… but if they're just dummies, how come they're so…?"

"Expressive? Heh, not sure why I did it myself, but they're quite simple really." You raise a finger, pointing at the you with the strands of blonde hair. "That's Beta." Then you point at the one with the blue lined cap. "Gamma." Then you point at the loose haired one. "Epsilon." And finally, you point at yourself. "And I'm the Alpha."

"... you are a confusing T-doll, Veresk."

"At least I'm not boring."

It doesn't take long before you reach the deeper parts of Ouroboro's digimind. No firewalls or defenses to hack through this time, she kept it all open for you. Going down a few levels, you come across what appears to be a massive chess board, with the pieces in the middle of a game. Most of the black pieces are destroyed, save for the king, who is now being hunted by four remaining white pieces: a knight, a rook, a queen and a king. It is a very one sided game, to say the least. The board was surrounded by a purple glow.

"That's it. All that I am… is right there." she says, pointing at the black king.

Γ: "Shesh, looks like all that you are is being threatened." commented Gamma.

"This chess board reflects the most important conflict I'm currently part of. These may just seem like ordinary chess pieces to you, but to me…" as Ouroboros speaks, the shapes of the pieces begin to glitch out shift, changing into the form of dolls. The king has turned into the Ringleader herself, while the other pieces… "These white pieces are the scum of 404, always one turn ahead…"

"Oh, hey! That's the doll that rescued us earlier!" noted Epsilon, pointing her finger at the knight. Indeed, you recognize the hair, the beret, the rifle, as that mysterious T-doll that gave you the authorization code.

"So that's HK416?"
Γ: "Hm, looks more like an HKM4 to me."
B: "Isn't that the same?"

"She's a backwater rat, that's all you need to know…" Ouroboros cut into the discussion "If you feel like you owe her for that rescue, know that they'll use you, wipe your digimind, and I will have left you way before that even happens. Understand?"

It seemed more like a threat than a warning, but you don't aim to discuss it now.

"C'mon, let's set you free and get out of here."

As you step onto the first tile of the massive chessboard, you feel a sudden disturbance in the digiscape. Your dummies and the ringleader seem to have noticed it too. Looking into the direction of the disturbance, you see virpools of data swirling in place, constructing something. Sangvis Ferri units, digital but no less dangerous, the purple glow of their weapons aimed your way. You dive immediately, hiding behind one of the destroyed black pieces.

"What's going on?! Why is your digimind attacking us?!"

"Must be a failsafe, put in place to prevent cases like this… damn, they really thought of everything!"

The ringleader rushed to your side as well, explaining the enemy presence. The dummies did as well.

E: "Ah! Protect me snek!"
"G-get off of me!"

While Ouroboros was trying to free herself from Epsilon's grip, you, Beta and Gamma pulled out your weapons and started engaging the enemy. Combat within a digimind is surprisingly similar to the real world, just minus some of the realism.

"Can't you disable them?"

"No, I don't have permission for that!"

"Well then, guess we've got no choice." you nod towards Beta and Gamma, who stay behind cover and wait for your signal. "Epsilon, stop hugging Ouroboros and get your gun ready."

"Aww…" sad, the dummy complied, letting go of the ringleader.

"I'm gonna go get you your permissions, you just cover me. Got it?"

The ringleader narrowed her eyes at you, but only for a moment. She turned to the horde of enemies, rapidly chipping away at the structural code that is your cover. The next time she looked at you, distrust subsided and she nodded.

"Alright. 3… 2… 1… go!"

You bolted out of cover, hearing your allies send a barrage of suppressive fire in the enemy's direction. Your target was the black piece that controls all, the king. You slid along the ground to take cover behind it. Finally, you put your hand on its surface, feeling the influx of data and connections within. You tap on it twice like an app icon, and the access node reveals itself to you. All that's left now is to interface, and…

WwWWwwWhwhhhwooOoOaahaahahh!

For a moment you got so dizzy, you could almost feel your real body trying not to fall over. Configuring an SF digimind really is a whole different experience, it's like falling into a pit of freezing water on a hot summer day. With a toaster.

Accessing doll permissions

Thankfully, you regain your footing quite quickly, and find what you're looking for. Sangvis Ferri is assigned as her owner, and their hold on her isn't quite as tight as you expected. She can lie to them, she can disobey certain kinds of orders… it's like they deliberately gave her the option to fail the mission. But they still have absolute administrative control, so she cannot raise arms against them. That has to go.

Γ: "How's the progress?"

Suddenly inquired an approaching voice, which you notice to be Gamma, still firing at the enemy but now from a closer position.

"Nearing completion."

Γ: "... you know she can't see what you're doing here, right?"

You raise your head, taking a glance at the battle. Ouroboros is fighting alongside Beta and Epsilon, taking down enemy programs ruthlessly and efficiently. She really seems focused on the fight.

"... I know what you're suggesting."

Γ: "What worth is a promise if it leaves you at a disadvantage? Trust is overrated. You did the same with AA-"

"It was different for AA-12. I trust her."

Γ: "Oh, give me a break. If you trusted AA-12, you wouldn't have done what you did."

"It's G&K who I didn't trust-"

Γ: "And to free her from them you didn't need to assign yourself as the admin. But you did so anyway. And lookie here, she's still around."

"That's by her choice. I never ordered her into anything she herself didn't agree with."

Γ: "You sure? Maybe she wanted to say no, but her subconscious wouldn't let her. How can you say with certainty that you being assigned as her new owner has no impact on her?"

"..."

Γ: "Just think about it for a hot minute, before you give this volatile time bomb absolute freedom. When she gets the choice between you and getting revenge on that 4 girl band she hates so much, what do you think she's gonna choose? Oh, and if you need visual reference, just look at how close the white pieces are to capturing the king... and how you're nowhere on the board at all."



[X] Give Ouroboros complete freedom.
[ ] Give yourself full command authority over Ouroboros.

--- leaving the digimind ---

It felt like waking up, only more tired. Not an afternoon nap at all. You and Ouroboros return to optimal consciousness levels at the same time. Checking your internal clock, only a few minutes have passed. Your processing unit feels like you could cook scrambled eggs on it, but at least now you can cool off for a bit.

"So… is it done?"

"A deal's a deal." you reply, taking proper hold of your weapon. "Now we just need to get out of here."

"Right. There's another exit I was planning to escape through, it's just this way-"

Suddenly, her voice was interrupted by a beeping on one of the last functioning computer screens. She stares at it for a moment, cursing under her breath.

"Damn, sensors picked up on someone entering the building. She's coming…"

"Then let's hurry?"

"My leg's damaged, my mobility is severely limited indoors." she patted one of her floating launchers. "Once we're out of here I can pick up speed, but she's a cunning one, she could cut us off before we reach the exit."

You pick up on the fact that she keeps saying she. If this is only one member of that 404 squad that she's so worried about, engaging her head on is out of the question, or she'll call the rest of her team for backup. Your only real option is flight, but how to go about it…

[X] "It's you they want, so you get to the exit while I throw her off your trail. Wait for me there."
[ ] "We have the number advantage. If she shows up, lay down suppressive fire. You've still got some rockets, right?"
[ ] "Any way you could still call in some Sangvis units? Fighting through them might be easier than fighting through her."
[ ] Write-in
 
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"Just think about it for a hot minute, before you give this volatile time bomb absolute freedom. When she gets the choice between you and getting revenge on that 4 girl band she hates so much, what do you think she's gonna choose? Oh, and if you need visual reference, just look at how close the white pieces are to capturing the king... and how you're nowhere on the board at all."



[ ] Give Ouroboros complete freedom.
[ ] Give yourself full command authority over Ouroboros.
Hm. We got oursevles a difficult conundrum here, one entirely of our own making. I'm not on board with letting a personality like Ouro go unfettered. However, I'm even less on board with pulling the shady act of secret command authority a second time. I'm going to need to think long on this one.
 
[X] Give Ouroboros complete freedom.

NO BRAKES

...also, she probably understands that we are her only hope at this point. She has managed to grudgingly take up the humility required to accept our help. It's not like she's going to be able to ingratiate herself with Agent at this point - that bridge has been burnt for her.

[X] "Any way you could still call in some Sangvis units? Fighting through them might be easier than fighting through her."

The other two options involve our MC making herself known to 404 as a SF collaborator.
 
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[X] Give Ouroboros complete freedom.
[X] "It's you they want, so you get to the exit while I throw her off your trail. Wait for me there."

Time to start doll OuterHeaven :D
Chances are '45 already knows about V anyway, might as well try the peaceful solution first.
 
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