SirLagginton
Shadow Cabal Caerbannog Bun-Bun
- Location
- Arrrghhh
As it turns out, Isaac is indeed a guy's name.
Infinite Stratos Warfare
- Thread starter Alastor Mobius Toth
- Start date
- Crossover
I thought it was just a surname of Winters with Issac being the one who wrote the letter. That's... actually really irritating for some reason.
Alastor Mobius Toth
***** ***
- Location
- Neon Ghetto
ATO uses format where they spell candidate's surname first; in class Isaac would be referred to as "Winters".
Prologue 1.4
Alastor Mobius Toth
***** ***
- Location
- Neon Ghetto
[X]Chill at place, try to talk to Quadtails
In the end, you decide to try and learn something about your mysterious flatmate. Besides, if the last several years had taught you anything, it's that problems close to home, unless dealt with immediately, tend to brew up at most inopportune of times.
You roll out of the bed, and head into the living room. The girl isn't there, but you decide to wait just the same, using the time to check if there was anything edible in the kitchen. Another thing you've learned that regardless of whether you were on Mars or on Earth, food was always the universally accepted peace offering. In the end though, all you find is some butter, ham, cheese and toast bread. It'll have to do you suppose - besides, toast sandwich with ham & cheese wasn't all that difficult.
The girl emerges just a moment after you put the toasts into the oven, as visibly grumbles at your presence, but doesn't actually say anything. Instead, she flips over the sofa, draping herself over it while switching on the TV. You frown slightly, catching the sight of her dress hiking up enough to show off her flashy crimson garters. For someone that didn't seem to like you...she was fairly open, almost dismissive about her sexuality. You've seen this sort of things in ghettos before, though you can't be sure whether she's just open about herself, confident, or if there's some genuine trauma beneath that exterior. You are however, pretty certain that it's a bait.
You decide to briefly focus on the kitchen instead, tuning out the news the girl was watching. Not that news was any different these days. Tensions between Earth and SDF continued to rise with no end in sight, riots in many outlying cities on Earth, terrorist attacks by fringe movements that were almost a common day occurrence, environmental devastation...it's rather telling that the only odd news you catch is some bigwig scientist disappearing without a trace from one of the First World nations.
Finally, the oven chimes, and you take out the fragrant toasts. You wait some more as they cool, before shuffling them into a bowl. By now the TV is well into commercial break.
You gesture at the bowl. "Want some?" You call out to her. She scoffs.
"Didn't ask for any." You shrug back.
"No, but I still ended up making more than I'd eat myself, and I hate seeing food go to waste." You reply. "If you don't want it, I guess I can just take it to neighbors or something."
She rolls her eyes. "I also didn't say I don't want any."
You bring the bowl over with a spare plate, which she grabs immediately before grabbing two toasts. Greedy that one. You watch as she takes her first bite, her eyes widening slightly.
"Heh, don't want to brag or anything, but after having to live off the same things as people in city ghettos, I could probably make a shit cocktail taste like a delicacy" You think, you sit yourself down, while the girl continues to wolf down her toast, bread crumbs all over her mouth. She suddenly stops, before glaring at you.
"What? What you're looking at?"
"The ceiling." You try to say in the most dry voice you can manage. "It's really pretty and so are you." Her eyes suddenly widen and her cheeks redden, as she stammers for a response, her demeanor suddenly broken.
"But actually." You caught a little to hide the giggle in your voice. "Uh, I was wondering if you have a name, or if I'm going to have to call you 'Hey You' for the next 4 years."
The purple-eyed glare reminds you distinctly of a pouting cat. "It's Chris. Chris Yukine and fuck you very much."
You laugh. "Hey, hey, no hard feelings. But seriously, you are pretty..." Damn it, now that you said, it sounds sappy and embarrassing. "...uh, yeah. Name's Isaac by the way. Issac Winters."
"Right" Chris replies, trying to hastily wipe the breadcrumbs from her mouth. "Well, we now have each other's names, so could you please leave me alone? I'm not really interested in your life story or anything. "
"Wasn't going to tell it." You raise your hand defensively, as you take your own bite of toast. "I just thought it's good sense to be in good standing with my flatmate, that's all."
"You stay out of my way, I stay out of yours and all will be well." She barks, but less heatedly than before. "Capiche?"
You're about to reply when you hear a loud chime. Doorbell, apparently. You shrug and go and get it, while Chris returns to nonchalantly watching the TV.
Upon opening the door, you find two young women. Both looked Asian, though one less so, being slightly taller with more Caucasian skin tone and amber eyes, going with her brilliant red mane. Her partner however, was very stereotypical, in being a slender, lithe woman with porcelain-like skin and dark eyes, framed by precisely-cut blue hair.
"Oh, hey." The redhead speaks up first. "This is the One-Oh-Twenty-five right?" You nod, and she continues. "Is Chris around? We're friends."
You turn to the side, letting them in and pointing to the sofa. Chris momentarily freezes, before awkwardly rubbing her head.
You learn that their names are Kaede (the red-head) and Tsubasa (the bluenette), and both were sort of not-friends-but-actually-friends of Chris. Unlike Chris, Kaede is refreshingly forward and honest, though not overbearingly so. Tsubasa on the other hand seems stern, maybe a bit intimidating, but in motherly way, i.e "what thou children shall do without me?"
You leave the girls to their discussion - apparently both made appointment to chat up Chris which she forgot...a common story, apparently - since you quickly gather that Chris gets somewhat anxious when caught between you and what she said earlier, and her friends. Not that you have really a problem with it, since they both seem nice. You make yourself sparse, just hanging back and exchanging some smalltalk before heading back in. You learn that Tsubasa was Japanese, while Kaede was actually born on Ceres Station, returning to Earth just scant few months before SDF's rise to power. She was also the oldest of the group, though by not much.
Eventually, you return to your room, deciding to wrap up the day by putting your personal affects in order around the room, before you return to living room for a glass of something. Chris isn't there anymore, but you still find Kaede and Tsubasa hanging around.
"Hey." Kaede greets you quietly. "Sorry if we kinda left you out there for a bit." You wave her off.
"No harm done..." You say and then grow quiet when you see Tsubasa staring intensely at you. "...nothing happened between you guys, right?"
"No." Kaede says, her eyes siezing you up. "We just wanted to tell you...you seem to have made an impression on Chris. Mind, we know that she can be a handful sometimes..."
"What Kaede means is that Chris has difficulty adjusting." Tsubasa cuts in. Kaede grimaces, but doesn't say anything. "Suffice to say, she can be...difficult to get along with."
"Yeah." the readhead says. "But you seem like a nice guy, and Chris needs more friends outside of us, so...give her a chance, please?"
You nod. "Sure." Although you can't promise that you can keep your cool all the time, the least you can do is try, right? None the less, the girls seem satisfied with your answer.
"Alright. That's all we're asking." Kaede says, before glancing at her watch. "Now, we really should be going. Big day tomorrow and all."
"Right. Feel free to drop by again, if you want." The girls nod at this, before saying their goodbyes.
Well. Not exactly what you were expecting, but baby steps, right?
You wake up next day not without some difficulty, though mercifully not late. You quickly wash up, opting to instead make some toasts to breakfast rather than waste time going to cafeteria. Chris emerges from her room as you're halfway through them, barely conscious and with a serious case of bed hair. Still at least she's up.
You finish up, making sure to leave some goodwill offerings just in case, and head out. The travel to main auditorium takes some time, but you manage to arrive at least 15 minutes early. Even so though, the space is already beginning to fill up with prospective students.
You sit down in one of the back rows, next to a young woman, who much like Chris, had silvery hair, though hers seemed to go into the more whiteish end of spectrum. Her hair was also tied into twintails, although a much shorter, conventional variant. Her blue eyes lit up when you ask whether the seat is free, and nods with an easy smile. You don't get to talk much -at all, in fact, before the seat right next to yours is taken.
"Hi!" Your new companion is male, clearly an Asian. The deliberation on how Asians seemed abnormally represented in ATO dies when you idly note how similar the man seems to the instructor that you met yesterday - Orimura Chifuyu. His English, you find, is surprisingly good.
"Hello." You greet back as the man sinks into his seat. "Big one today, isn't it?"
"Oh yes!" He says excitedly, his eyes rapidly flying all over the place. "And yesterday too! Although, I suppose, I've never been outside of Earth, so this all really new to me."
"I see." You nod carefully. "Name's Isaac Winters by the way." You don't mention that you're from Mars, to give yourself some time to gauge this man. "And you are?"
"Ichika." He says after a brief pause. "Orimura Ichika."
Your brain comes to a screeching halt, before rebooting. The resemblance is now unsettling. "Like..."
"That's my sister, yes." He says, resignedly, as whispers already begin to circle around you.
You whistle quietly. "And I thought I'd have it bad. No pressure, right?"
He chuckles, relaxing. "No kidding." There's a brief pause, before he blinks and speaks up again. "This is probably going to sound awfully self-centered, but I usually get a much bigger reaction when people find out who my sister is."
You smile. "Well, you and your sister are two different people, right? I'd rather judge you by you, than by the metric of your si-Instructor Orimura. Plus, well, I'm from the Colonies." Thankfully, Ichika doesn't seem to mind. "Actually, I probably know who she is only because I spent some time on Earth, so I heard this and that."
"Really? Must have been awesome! I've never been outside of Japan...I think? My sister might have taken me on a trip to Korea when I was young. Or was it Germany? I don't really remember that well. Afterwards, I kinda just stayed in Japan. Ever been?"
"No." You shake you head. "I came as part of cultural outreach and humanitarian program. We went to uh....different sorts of places. Central Africa, Syria, Russian badlands, Arizona, northern Mexico, former Venezuela, Glitch City..."
"Shit man." Ichika mutters apologetically. "Sounds rough. Sorry."
"Nah, it's cool. You didn't know." Yu try changing the subject. "So uh, got any insider knowledge on how things work around here?"
"Not really." Ichika shrugs. "Big Sister doesn't like to talk about work and we didn't ask." You raise your eyebrows and he hurriedly explains. "I'm actually the middle sibling. Chifuyu is oldest, but I have a twin sister. Madoka. She should be around here somewhere." He glances around in emphasis. "You'll know when you see her."
You're about to ask him something else, when the lights dim, and inauguration begins.
Whispers and noises begin to die down, and lone woman ascends to the podium at the centre of the stage. She looks about the age of Orimura the eldest, but carries herself with grace and wisdom of someone older, which constrast sharply with her golden locks and honey-like eyes.
"Greetings students" Her voice is loud and clear. "I am Wynn D. Fanchon, the head of this facility. Welcome to the Antarctic Treaty Organization. From this moment onward, your former nationality is invalid. Your faith, creed and race are all invalid. Though you represent cities, nations, even words, your first and foremost duty is to the peace that we uphold. Peace that we can uphold precisely because we can put ourselves above the petty struggles of the common nations; were that not the case, than none of us would be here, and world history would be very different indeed." Like Orimura, her gaze is unflinching, drilling through each and every student.
"Let me be clear. Our guns, our swords, are all that stands between mankind and complete chaos. Your position will afford you much power and privilege. But do not think for a second that it does not come without price, or responsibility. It is our sacred mission here to ensure that you are ready for the tasks ahead, and that you represent ATO without fail. We will push you to your outmost; all we're interested in is your break point!" Her hand crashes onto the pulpit, jolting the audience.
"It will be hard. Not all can make this journey, to reject that what binds us and makes us human. Because to master Infinite Stratos Warframe, you need to be more than human. And there is no shame in knowing your limits. But understand that as a Pilot, you are the eternal vanguard, you must always push yourself, for there is no telling what tomorrow might hold. You will be required to make great sacrifices towards this journey, but make no mistake: If you do your outmost, if you preserve and march forward, then we will meet you halfway."
She sweeps the auditorium with her gaze. "I've been told that our organization has grown weak, that we were unable to stop the Secession Crisis. That we are no longer needed. On the contrary however, never had we been needed more. The Crisis occurred precisely because Earth had ignored our warnings, and without us, Colonies would undoubtedly follow into self-destructive retaliation. So remember this, and stay vigilant. Worry for what might come if we fail, but do not let that worry control you. Burn it as a fuel for strength! Fight and fight harder, and together, we will preserve humanity into a dawn of a new age.
Ladies and Gentlemen. Welcome to ATO."
Shortly afterwards, the ceremony shifts towards administrative matters. As it turns out, the Academy is divided into classes, each mentored by a high-profile active Pilot. Names are called out, assigned under different Pilots for training. You brace yourself, waiting as the Headmaster inevitably calls out your name...
Which class is Winters called out for?
[]1A - lead by Alastoria Toth, the legendary founder of SDF's military wing, and the first Martian Pilot. Borderline deified in the colonies, she's actually something of engima, as each tale of her grows evermore fantastic than the last. However, what is know is that her character is unyielding and absolute, and that's she's a prodigy when it comes to warfare - reportedly beating Orimura Chifuyu without I.S suit of her own.
[]1B - lead by Orimura Chifuyu, the legendary Valkyrie of the Far East. She holds the record for the longest-reigning top ATO pilot, before being reportedly beaten by Alastoria Toth; the two have been engaged in fierce rivalry since. Strict disciplinarian, she however never asks anything of others that she wouldn't do herself, and is well-regarded by students and other Pilots alike.
[]1C - lead by Daniel Egret, the first "official" ATO recruit from Mars. Despite fairly mediocre test scores and synchronization rates, Egret became the fourth-ranking pilot through the combination of his battlefield experience, tenacity and all manner of tricks. He can be a bit hotheaded at times, but stands by his decisions - and more importantly, students.
[]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
In the end, you decide to try and learn something about your mysterious flatmate. Besides, if the last several years had taught you anything, it's that problems close to home, unless dealt with immediately, tend to brew up at most inopportune of times.
You roll out of the bed, and head into the living room. The girl isn't there, but you decide to wait just the same, using the time to check if there was anything edible in the kitchen. Another thing you've learned that regardless of whether you were on Mars or on Earth, food was always the universally accepted peace offering. In the end though, all you find is some butter, ham, cheese and toast bread. It'll have to do you suppose - besides, toast sandwich with ham & cheese wasn't all that difficult.
The girl emerges just a moment after you put the toasts into the oven, as visibly grumbles at your presence, but doesn't actually say anything. Instead, she flips over the sofa, draping herself over it while switching on the TV. You frown slightly, catching the sight of her dress hiking up enough to show off her flashy crimson garters. For someone that didn't seem to like you...she was fairly open, almost dismissive about her sexuality. You've seen this sort of things in ghettos before, though you can't be sure whether she's just open about herself, confident, or if there's some genuine trauma beneath that exterior. You are however, pretty certain that it's a bait.
You decide to briefly focus on the kitchen instead, tuning out the news the girl was watching. Not that news was any different these days. Tensions between Earth and SDF continued to rise with no end in sight, riots in many outlying cities on Earth, terrorist attacks by fringe movements that were almost a common day occurrence, environmental devastation...it's rather telling that the only odd news you catch is some bigwig scientist disappearing without a trace from one of the First World nations.
Finally, the oven chimes, and you take out the fragrant toasts. You wait some more as they cool, before shuffling them into a bowl. By now the TV is well into commercial break.
You gesture at the bowl. "Want some?" You call out to her. She scoffs.
"Didn't ask for any." You shrug back.
"No, but I still ended up making more than I'd eat myself, and I hate seeing food go to waste." You reply. "If you don't want it, I guess I can just take it to neighbors or something."
She rolls her eyes. "I also didn't say I don't want any."
You bring the bowl over with a spare plate, which she grabs immediately before grabbing two toasts. Greedy that one. You watch as she takes her first bite, her eyes widening slightly.
"Heh, don't want to brag or anything, but after having to live off the same things as people in city ghettos, I could probably make a shit cocktail taste like a delicacy" You think, you sit yourself down, while the girl continues to wolf down her toast, bread crumbs all over her mouth. She suddenly stops, before glaring at you.
"What? What you're looking at?"
"The ceiling." You try to say in the most dry voice you can manage. "It's really pretty and so are you." Her eyes suddenly widen and her cheeks redden, as she stammers for a response, her demeanor suddenly broken.
"But actually." You caught a little to hide the giggle in your voice. "Uh, I was wondering if you have a name, or if I'm going to have to call you 'Hey You' for the next 4 years."
The purple-eyed glare reminds you distinctly of a pouting cat. "It's Chris. Chris Yukine and fuck you very much."
You laugh. "Hey, hey, no hard feelings. But seriously, you are pretty..." Damn it, now that you said, it sounds sappy and embarrassing. "...uh, yeah. Name's Isaac by the way. Issac Winters."
"Right" Chris replies, trying to hastily wipe the breadcrumbs from her mouth. "Well, we now have each other's names, so could you please leave me alone? I'm not really interested in your life story or anything. "
"Wasn't going to tell it." You raise your hand defensively, as you take your own bite of toast. "I just thought it's good sense to be in good standing with my flatmate, that's all."
"You stay out of my way, I stay out of yours and all will be well." She barks, but less heatedly than before. "Capiche?"
You're about to reply when you hear a loud chime. Doorbell, apparently. You shrug and go and get it, while Chris returns to nonchalantly watching the TV.
Upon opening the door, you find two young women. Both looked Asian, though one less so, being slightly taller with more Caucasian skin tone and amber eyes, going with her brilliant red mane. Her partner however, was very stereotypical, in being a slender, lithe woman with porcelain-like skin and dark eyes, framed by precisely-cut blue hair.
"Oh, hey." The redhead speaks up first. "This is the One-Oh-Twenty-five right?" You nod, and she continues. "Is Chris around? We're friends."
You turn to the side, letting them in and pointing to the sofa. Chris momentarily freezes, before awkwardly rubbing her head.
You learn that their names are Kaede (the red-head) and Tsubasa (the bluenette), and both were sort of not-friends-but-actually-friends of Chris. Unlike Chris, Kaede is refreshingly forward and honest, though not overbearingly so. Tsubasa on the other hand seems stern, maybe a bit intimidating, but in motherly way, i.e "what thou children shall do without me?"
You leave the girls to their discussion - apparently both made appointment to chat up Chris which she forgot...a common story, apparently - since you quickly gather that Chris gets somewhat anxious when caught between you and what she said earlier, and her friends. Not that you have really a problem with it, since they both seem nice. You make yourself sparse, just hanging back and exchanging some smalltalk before heading back in. You learn that Tsubasa was Japanese, while Kaede was actually born on Ceres Station, returning to Earth just scant few months before SDF's rise to power. She was also the oldest of the group, though by not much.
Eventually, you return to your room, deciding to wrap up the day by putting your personal affects in order around the room, before you return to living room for a glass of something. Chris isn't there anymore, but you still find Kaede and Tsubasa hanging around.
"Hey." Kaede greets you quietly. "Sorry if we kinda left you out there for a bit." You wave her off.
"No harm done..." You say and then grow quiet when you see Tsubasa staring intensely at you. "...nothing happened between you guys, right?"
"No." Kaede says, her eyes siezing you up. "We just wanted to tell you...you seem to have made an impression on Chris. Mind, we know that she can be a handful sometimes..."
"What Kaede means is that Chris has difficulty adjusting." Tsubasa cuts in. Kaede grimaces, but doesn't say anything. "Suffice to say, she can be...difficult to get along with."
"Yeah." the readhead says. "But you seem like a nice guy, and Chris needs more friends outside of us, so...give her a chance, please?"
You nod. "Sure." Although you can't promise that you can keep your cool all the time, the least you can do is try, right? None the less, the girls seem satisfied with your answer.
"Alright. That's all we're asking." Kaede says, before glancing at her watch. "Now, we really should be going. Big day tomorrow and all."
"Right. Feel free to drop by again, if you want." The girls nod at this, before saying their goodbyes.
Well. Not exactly what you were expecting, but baby steps, right?
***
You wake up next day not without some difficulty, though mercifully not late. You quickly wash up, opting to instead make some toasts to breakfast rather than waste time going to cafeteria. Chris emerges from her room as you're halfway through them, barely conscious and with a serious case of bed hair. Still at least she's up.
You finish up, making sure to leave some goodwill offerings just in case, and head out. The travel to main auditorium takes some time, but you manage to arrive at least 15 minutes early. Even so though, the space is already beginning to fill up with prospective students.
You sit down in one of the back rows, next to a young woman, who much like Chris, had silvery hair, though hers seemed to go into the more whiteish end of spectrum. Her hair was also tied into twintails, although a much shorter, conventional variant. Her blue eyes lit up when you ask whether the seat is free, and nods with an easy smile. You don't get to talk much -at all, in fact, before the seat right next to yours is taken.
"Hi!" Your new companion is male, clearly an Asian. The deliberation on how Asians seemed abnormally represented in ATO dies when you idly note how similar the man seems to the instructor that you met yesterday - Orimura Chifuyu. His English, you find, is surprisingly good.
"Hello." You greet back as the man sinks into his seat. "Big one today, isn't it?"
"Oh yes!" He says excitedly, his eyes rapidly flying all over the place. "And yesterday too! Although, I suppose, I've never been outside of Earth, so this all really new to me."
"I see." You nod carefully. "Name's Isaac Winters by the way." You don't mention that you're from Mars, to give yourself some time to gauge this man. "And you are?"
"Ichika." He says after a brief pause. "Orimura Ichika."
Your brain comes to a screeching halt, before rebooting. The resemblance is now unsettling. "Like..."
"That's my sister, yes." He says, resignedly, as whispers already begin to circle around you.
You whistle quietly. "And I thought I'd have it bad. No pressure, right?"
He chuckles, relaxing. "No kidding." There's a brief pause, before he blinks and speaks up again. "This is probably going to sound awfully self-centered, but I usually get a much bigger reaction when people find out who my sister is."
You smile. "Well, you and your sister are two different people, right? I'd rather judge you by you, than by the metric of your si-Instructor Orimura. Plus, well, I'm from the Colonies." Thankfully, Ichika doesn't seem to mind. "Actually, I probably know who she is only because I spent some time on Earth, so I heard this and that."
"Really? Must have been awesome! I've never been outside of Japan...I think? My sister might have taken me on a trip to Korea when I was young. Or was it Germany? I don't really remember that well. Afterwards, I kinda just stayed in Japan. Ever been?"
"No." You shake you head. "I came as part of cultural outreach and humanitarian program. We went to uh....different sorts of places. Central Africa, Syria, Russian badlands, Arizona, northern Mexico, former Venezuela, Glitch City..."
"Shit man." Ichika mutters apologetically. "Sounds rough. Sorry."
"Nah, it's cool. You didn't know." Yu try changing the subject. "So uh, got any insider knowledge on how things work around here?"
"Not really." Ichika shrugs. "Big Sister doesn't like to talk about work and we didn't ask." You raise your eyebrows and he hurriedly explains. "I'm actually the middle sibling. Chifuyu is oldest, but I have a twin sister. Madoka. She should be around here somewhere." He glances around in emphasis. "You'll know when you see her."
You're about to ask him something else, when the lights dim, and inauguration begins.
Whispers and noises begin to die down, and lone woman ascends to the podium at the centre of the stage. She looks about the age of Orimura the eldest, but carries herself with grace and wisdom of someone older, which constrast sharply with her golden locks and honey-like eyes.
"Greetings students" Her voice is loud and clear. "I am Wynn D. Fanchon, the head of this facility. Welcome to the Antarctic Treaty Organization. From this moment onward, your former nationality is invalid. Your faith, creed and race are all invalid. Though you represent cities, nations, even words, your first and foremost duty is to the peace that we uphold. Peace that we can uphold precisely because we can put ourselves above the petty struggles of the common nations; were that not the case, than none of us would be here, and world history would be very different indeed." Like Orimura, her gaze is unflinching, drilling through each and every student.
"Let me be clear. Our guns, our swords, are all that stands between mankind and complete chaos. Your position will afford you much power and privilege. But do not think for a second that it does not come without price, or responsibility. It is our sacred mission here to ensure that you are ready for the tasks ahead, and that you represent ATO without fail. We will push you to your outmost; all we're interested in is your break point!" Her hand crashes onto the pulpit, jolting the audience.
"It will be hard. Not all can make this journey, to reject that what binds us and makes us human. Because to master Infinite Stratos Warframe, you need to be more than human. And there is no shame in knowing your limits. But understand that as a Pilot, you are the eternal vanguard, you must always push yourself, for there is no telling what tomorrow might hold. You will be required to make great sacrifices towards this journey, but make no mistake: If you do your outmost, if you preserve and march forward, then we will meet you halfway."
She sweeps the auditorium with her gaze. "I've been told that our organization has grown weak, that we were unable to stop the Secession Crisis. That we are no longer needed. On the contrary however, never had we been needed more. The Crisis occurred precisely because Earth had ignored our warnings, and without us, Colonies would undoubtedly follow into self-destructive retaliation. So remember this, and stay vigilant. Worry for what might come if we fail, but do not let that worry control you. Burn it as a fuel for strength! Fight and fight harder, and together, we will preserve humanity into a dawn of a new age.
Ladies and Gentlemen. Welcome to ATO."
Shortly afterwards, the ceremony shifts towards administrative matters. As it turns out, the Academy is divided into classes, each mentored by a high-profile active Pilot. Names are called out, assigned under different Pilots for training. You brace yourself, waiting as the Headmaster inevitably calls out your name...
Which class is Winters called out for?
[]1A - lead by Alastoria Toth, the legendary founder of SDF's military wing, and the first Martian Pilot. Borderline deified in the colonies, she's actually something of engima, as each tale of her grows evermore fantastic than the last. However, what is know is that her character is unyielding and absolute, and that's she's a prodigy when it comes to warfare - reportedly beating Orimura Chifuyu without I.S suit of her own.
[]1B - lead by Orimura Chifuyu, the legendary Valkyrie of the Far East. She holds the record for the longest-reigning top ATO pilot, before being reportedly beaten by Alastoria Toth; the two have been engaged in fierce rivalry since. Strict disciplinarian, she however never asks anything of others that she wouldn't do herself, and is well-regarded by students and other Pilots alike.
[]1C - lead by Daniel Egret, the first "official" ATO recruit from Mars. Despite fairly mediocre test scores and synchronization rates, Egret became the fourth-ranking pilot through the combination of his battlefield experience, tenacity and all manner of tricks. He can be a bit hotheaded at times, but stands by his decisions - and more importantly, students.
[]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
Tempted by the martian ace. But best teacher is best teacher. Who also sounds pretty neutral in the earth space conflict.
Tempted by the martian ace. But best teacher is best teacher. Who also sounds pretty neutral in the earth space conflict.
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[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
I like Scathach, but I'm choosing her because there is nothing better than having a good teacher. They can make even the most mediocre class into something worth your time and genuinely enjoyable.
I like Scathach, but I'm choosing her because there is nothing better than having a good teacher. They can make even the most mediocre class into something worth your time and genuinely enjoyable.
I was actually talking about going from "I.S. Cross = All girl pilots" to "Suddenly guys. Oh and we're a guy." Which kind of tweaked at me cause the only other male pilot in that canon was Ichika and... yeah.
SirLagginton
Shadow Cabal Caerbannog Bun-Bun
- Location
- Arrrghhh
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
Shiranui
The Yakuza's Golden Dragon
- Location
- Schroedinger's Box
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
I decided to switch my vote over to Scathach. After analyzing, yeah, she'd be the best teacher.
I decided to switch my vote over to Scathach. After analyzing, yeah, she'd be the best teacher.
- Location
- Canada
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
As much as I like Chifuyu, I would rather have a teacher who is good at passing on knowledge that have learned to others. Toth is probably an I.S. version of Chuck Norris (Mind you, still a person who can beat the shit out of someone) but we don't know how good of a teacher she is.
As much as I like Chifuyu, I would rather have a teacher who is good at passing on knowledge that have learned to others. Toth is probably an I.S. version of Chuck Norris (Mind you, still a person who can beat the shit out of someone) but we don't know how good of a teacher she is.
- Location
- Rainbase
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
Happerry
Bat out of Hell
- Location
- Kanto
[X]1C - lead by Daniel Egret, the first "official" ATO recruit from Mars. Despite fairly mediocre test scores and synchronization rates, Egret became the fourth-ranking pilot through the combination of his battlefield experience, tenacity and all manner of tricks. He can be a bit hotheaded at times, but stands by his decisions - and more importantly, students.
Theunderbolt
"Prepare for trouble..."
- Location
- USoA
Hmm considering the back story we chose Alastoria would be rough depending on how she is with the whole Mars thing. I'm liking the the other three for various reasons.
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
Icywinter
50% ice, 50% winter
- Location
- ?
- Pronouns
- She/Her
[x]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
SENSEI!
SENSEI!
JoshieWoshie
Mister Doge
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside mainATO leadership, instead busying herself with field-or Academy work.
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work
- Location
- italy bologna
[X]1C - lead by Daniel Egret, the first "official" ATO recruit from Mars. Despite fairly mediocre test scores and synchronization rates, Egret became the fourth-ranking pilot through the combination of his battlefield experience, tenacity and all manner of tricks. He can be a bit hotheaded at times, but stands by his decisions - and more importantly, students
- Location
- Here
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
Love me some Scat.
Love me some Scat.
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Act 1.1 - Beginnings of Begining
Alastor Mobius Toth
***** ***
- Location
- Neon Ghetto
[X]1D - lead by Scathach an Eliean, one of the longest-serving Pilots of the current ATO generation. An warrior-woman with instincts born to kill, though tempered by her age and experience. Unusually for a highly talented warrior, she's even better in passing on her knowledge to others; one of the main reasons why she remains outside main ATO leadership, instead busying herself with field- or Academy work.
The list of the students called out is a bit longer than you anticipated, especially when you consider that Pilots are supposed to be among the most rare commodities of Mankind. But eventually, your name comes up - and with it the assignment to the class of one Professor Scathach. The girl next to you, which principal identifies as Tess Kashima, is also in the same class; meanwhile, Ichika is assigned to the class headed by his older sister. Meanwhile, Chris is assigned to the ever-enigmatic Alastoria Toth, along with Ichika's younger sister, Madoka. Eventually, the principal is through the list, and you're all dismissed to your now-designated classrooms.
"Small world, huh?" You say to Ichika as he's getting ready to leave. You can tell that he's not particularly enthused by the choice, but neither is he particularly dejected.
"I suppose it could have been worse. At least, she won't maim me on the first day, right?" He shrugs. "See you around Isaac."
"Likewise." You nod and turn to the girl next to you. "So uh, Tess right? Guess we're going to be in same class together."
"Yep." Her accent sounds faintly North-North American; probably Canadian. "But please, all my friends call me Kashy."
"Sure thing Kashy. Want to go together?" Her smile is positively cat-like.
"I'd love to."
It takes a bit to reach your new class, given the size of the Academy, though given that you aren't late, you don't feel any particular need to rush, and neither does Tess - Kashy. You don't actually talk much beyond some small talk - you learn that she's from Vancouver, has an older cousin that works in Republican Canadian Naval Academy; things like that - but the silence among you is not uncomfortable.
The class itself is a medium-sized room, which is just enough to accommodate about dozen-and-a-few students total. Taking advantage of the temporary absence of the professor, you snag the seat next to the holographic "window" panels of the class, while Kashy sits down behind you. You don't get to talk much however, before your professor arrives.
You recall hearing about Scathach an Eliean, though mostly in general terms. She was apparently one of the longest-serving pilots of the then-current generation of IS Pilots before Orimura and then Toth arrived, and even then still remained in the top 10. If you remember correctly she represented the Scottish Commonwealth - technically still did, even if she didn't fight in a ring as often. You also have to admit that she's...very eye-catching; especially for someone who should be pushing late forties in the least. Meanwhile, you're pretty sure she looks somewhere in late 20s, with pale smooth skin, supple toned legs and a very nice bust that was accented by her suit. Her hair, much like Kaede's, was red but much darker in shade. Her eyes were red too - almost bloodily too. You resist shuddering as you look into them, feeling little but deathly cold.
"Good Day students." Her voice however, is fairly relaxed and accentless. "I assume you've all been listening to the assembly, so I'll skip the pleasantries. I am Scathach an Eliean. You will refer to me as Teacher or Instructor Scathach. From this moment forward, I'll be your Pilot Instructor. You are here for various reasons, from different nations, even different worlds." She sweeps the class with her gaze. "But above all, you are all here to learn. And that's what you will do. You will learn to master yourself, physically and mentally. You will learn how to fight and how to respond on the battlefield. You will be remade." She paces a few steps, in a way that only instructors or drill sergeants do.
"I will teach you all you need to know, but for that to be successful, you will have to put in effort as well. If there is something you don't understand - no matter how trivial or silly it might seem, ask me. There are no such things as stupid questions, and even those made in ignorance can shed light on things you believed to have mastered. But above all, never cease to better yourself. I am a harsh taskmaster, make no mistake, but I am also a fair one."
She returns back to the teachers seat, right next to a holoboard. "As you are all of different backgrounds, and different levels of combat proficiency, we will start with the basics this week, so that everyone knows where we stand. To those with military experience, I implore to pay attention - you are never quite good as you think you are. And do not hesitate to help others. The sooner we can get on the same page, the sooner we can move to more exciting stuff." Suddenly her face grows quite stern. "Because if you truly intend to become a Pilot, then it is not enough to know basics. You must master them, do them without thinking if you even wish to battle with the Frame. Without a solid foundation, you will crumble, regardless of your prior experience. Keep this in mind as we proceed. And also note that I do not care about your race, creed, service, gender or even place of birth. You are all equal here, and you are not in the ring. If anyone here starts something, tries to settle some nonsensical tribal grudge or start shit just because their granddaddy got shot by someone else's granddaddy, then I will personally snap your spine. And do not think for a microsecond that I won't get away with it." Her smile has the warmth of frozen helium, only underscored by her murderously red eyes. The class nods mutely in acceptance, and she immediately brightens.
"Well, that's excellent then! Now, moving on-" She finally seats herself, with all the aplomb and grace of an apex predator and gorgeous woman. "-as last final bit of formality, each class is supposed to have a Representative. They act as nominal intermediary between the students and the staff. They also represent the class in event of various internal tournaments. It is a position of responsibility, but it does come with its own rewards - as a representative, you have a wider access to Academy facilities compared to a normal students. However, the standards you will be held to are much higher than others." The Instructor carefully eyes each and every one of you. "There is no shame in knowing your present limits and refusing. Just as I would implore anyone thinking of applying to think long and hard about whether they're ready. Yes?" You're somewhat surprised when Kashy unexpectedly raises her hand behind you.
"Instructor, ummm...how exactly are these representatives chosen?"
Scathach smiles. "Ah. A fine question. As it happens, anyone present here can nominate themselves for candidature. By the end of the week we will hold a debate between candidates where each will get an opportunity to...convince you of their ability to lead the classroom. If the results are tied between two or more candidates, then we will hold a duel once your I.S units are active. Speaking of which, the early configuration of your units is done, so make sure you check in with your neural net soon. Various manufacturers should be contacting you soon about offers of upgrades and outer shell configurations your IS is compatible with."
The Instructor gives the class some time to digest the news. A slow murmur of conversation builds up between people, while others silently mull over their options. A few even boot up their computer terminals, intently checking something. From behind, Kashy tugs on your collar.
"Thinking about volunteering?"
"Hmmm, well...."
[]BE A GOOD MARTIAN. VOLUNTEER IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
[]Naaaaaah
***
Enjoy your early dose! I'm going to try keep updates a bit shorter from here on, but also more frequent.
Famous last words, eh?
The list of the students called out is a bit longer than you anticipated, especially when you consider that Pilots are supposed to be among the most rare commodities of Mankind. But eventually, your name comes up - and with it the assignment to the class of one Professor Scathach. The girl next to you, which principal identifies as Tess Kashima, is also in the same class; meanwhile, Ichika is assigned to the class headed by his older sister. Meanwhile, Chris is assigned to the ever-enigmatic Alastoria Toth, along with Ichika's younger sister, Madoka. Eventually, the principal is through the list, and you're all dismissed to your now-designated classrooms.
"Small world, huh?" You say to Ichika as he's getting ready to leave. You can tell that he's not particularly enthused by the choice, but neither is he particularly dejected.
"I suppose it could have been worse. At least, she won't maim me on the first day, right?" He shrugs. "See you around Isaac."
"Likewise." You nod and turn to the girl next to you. "So uh, Tess right? Guess we're going to be in same class together."
"Yep." Her accent sounds faintly North-North American; probably Canadian. "But please, all my friends call me Kashy."
"Sure thing Kashy. Want to go together?" Her smile is positively cat-like.
"I'd love to."
***
It takes a bit to reach your new class, given the size of the Academy, though given that you aren't late, you don't feel any particular need to rush, and neither does Tess - Kashy. You don't actually talk much beyond some small talk - you learn that she's from Vancouver, has an older cousin that works in Republican Canadian Naval Academy; things like that - but the silence among you is not uncomfortable.
The class itself is a medium-sized room, which is just enough to accommodate about dozen-and-a-few students total. Taking advantage of the temporary absence of the professor, you snag the seat next to the holographic "window" panels of the class, while Kashy sits down behind you. You don't get to talk much however, before your professor arrives.
You recall hearing about Scathach an Eliean, though mostly in general terms. She was apparently one of the longest-serving pilots of the then-current generation of IS Pilots before Orimura and then Toth arrived, and even then still remained in the top 10. If you remember correctly she represented the Scottish Commonwealth - technically still did, even if she didn't fight in a ring as often. You also have to admit that she's...very eye-catching; especially for someone who should be pushing late forties in the least. Meanwhile, you're pretty sure she looks somewhere in late 20s, with pale smooth skin, supple toned legs and a very nice bust that was accented by her suit. Her hair, much like Kaede's, was red but much darker in shade. Her eyes were red too - almost bloodily too. You resist shuddering as you look into them, feeling little but deathly cold.
"Good Day students." Her voice however, is fairly relaxed and accentless. "I assume you've all been listening to the assembly, so I'll skip the pleasantries. I am Scathach an Eliean. You will refer to me as Teacher or Instructor Scathach. From this moment forward, I'll be your Pilot Instructor. You are here for various reasons, from different nations, even different worlds." She sweeps the class with her gaze. "But above all, you are all here to learn. And that's what you will do. You will learn to master yourself, physically and mentally. You will learn how to fight and how to respond on the battlefield. You will be remade." She paces a few steps, in a way that only instructors or drill sergeants do.
"I will teach you all you need to know, but for that to be successful, you will have to put in effort as well. If there is something you don't understand - no matter how trivial or silly it might seem, ask me. There are no such things as stupid questions, and even those made in ignorance can shed light on things you believed to have mastered. But above all, never cease to better yourself. I am a harsh taskmaster, make no mistake, but I am also a fair one."
She returns back to the teachers seat, right next to a holoboard. "As you are all of different backgrounds, and different levels of combat proficiency, we will start with the basics this week, so that everyone knows where we stand. To those with military experience, I implore to pay attention - you are never quite good as you think you are. And do not hesitate to help others. The sooner we can get on the same page, the sooner we can move to more exciting stuff." Suddenly her face grows quite stern. "Because if you truly intend to become a Pilot, then it is not enough to know basics. You must master them, do them without thinking if you even wish to battle with the Frame. Without a solid foundation, you will crumble, regardless of your prior experience. Keep this in mind as we proceed. And also note that I do not care about your race, creed, service, gender or even place of birth. You are all equal here, and you are not in the ring. If anyone here starts something, tries to settle some nonsensical tribal grudge or start shit just because their granddaddy got shot by someone else's granddaddy, then I will personally snap your spine. And do not think for a microsecond that I won't get away with it." Her smile has the warmth of frozen helium, only underscored by her murderously red eyes. The class nods mutely in acceptance, and she immediately brightens.
"Well, that's excellent then! Now, moving on-" She finally seats herself, with all the aplomb and grace of an apex predator and gorgeous woman. "-as last final bit of formality, each class is supposed to have a Representative. They act as nominal intermediary between the students and the staff. They also represent the class in event of various internal tournaments. It is a position of responsibility, but it does come with its own rewards - as a representative, you have a wider access to Academy facilities compared to a normal students. However, the standards you will be held to are much higher than others." The Instructor carefully eyes each and every one of you. "There is no shame in knowing your present limits and refusing. Just as I would implore anyone thinking of applying to think long and hard about whether they're ready. Yes?" You're somewhat surprised when Kashy unexpectedly raises her hand behind you.
"Instructor, ummm...how exactly are these representatives chosen?"
Scathach smiles. "Ah. A fine question. As it happens, anyone present here can nominate themselves for candidature. By the end of the week we will hold a debate between candidates where each will get an opportunity to...convince you of their ability to lead the classroom. If the results are tied between two or more candidates, then we will hold a duel once your I.S units are active. Speaking of which, the early configuration of your units is done, so make sure you check in with your neural net soon. Various manufacturers should be contacting you soon about offers of upgrades and outer shell configurations your IS is compatible with."
The Instructor gives the class some time to digest the news. A slow murmur of conversation builds up between people, while others silently mull over their options. A few even boot up their computer terminals, intently checking something. From behind, Kashy tugs on your collar.
"Thinking about volunteering?"
"Hmmm, well...."
[]BE A GOOD MARTIAN. VOLUNTEER IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
[]Naaaaaah
***
Enjoy your early dose! I'm going to try keep updates a bit shorter from here on, but also more frequent.
Famous last words, eh?
- Location
- Singapore
What Shishou wants is what Shishou gets.
[X] BE A GOOD MARTIAN. VOLUNTEER IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
[X] BE A GOOD MARTIAN. VOLUNTEER IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.