[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/qst/ - Quests


File: yuuichiro-n-p1021558.jpg (2.33 MB, 3840x2799)
2.33 MB
2.33 MB JPG
You can't remember the face of your mother or brother. The last time you saw them felt like an entire lifetime ago, you know you should remember. It wasn't really that long ago. But your mind had let it slip somehow. But one thing you will never forget were those eyes. Your father's eyes. Wide and bloodshot, bruised and bleeding. He had tried to stop them from taking you. You witnessed the madness and hate grow, all without blinking. As they led you away, through your own tears, through the window of the hastily leaving car. Until it consumed him and his legs gave out. The village men restraining him, the only thing keeping him up. And so with little fanfare and the gradual turn of an unpaved road they were gone.

They had come for you on your ninth birthday, like they had for every other youth from your village. Whatever that damned place was named you couldn't remember. But you remember the tests, you knew them oh too well. Synchro tests, Hi and Lo. Nerve response timings, neural latency, all that jazz. Luckily or unluckily you were the only potential applicant. Testing to find pilots for their alien machines, weapons they loosely claimed as their own. The Interior Ministry wouldn't let such a prize go to waste, like a greedy dog it gobbled you up and whisked you away from that snowy place. No matter how cold it got, you were always warm there.
>>
>>5122829
But that was six years ago. All you know now is the harsh loving embrace of Mistress Yuga and the base staff who govern your humble existence. The snap and hum was followed by blinding light as your dormitory suddenly burst into life. Chasing away any fragment of sleep you clang onto for dear life. Taking a deep breath you sat up as the first bell rang for the day, signaling the arrival of 5am. Smoothly you slide from your cot, the soft pitter patter of your feet the only noise within the lit dorm. No one else remained, mattress-less cots lay out in empty rows around you. You were all that was left of the Theta Project or the TP as they referred to your unit. Quickly and routinely you went about making your bed and straightening the small bedside table. Grabbing a towel you made a quick stop in the showers and dried before you knew it.

The other prospective youth had once been hustling about alongside you, but all had slowly failed or eventually got pulled from the unit and transferred out. The staff had reassured you that more would be rotated in, but that had been almost two years ago. You were used to the vacancy by now. Checking your time remaining as you hastily slipped on your combat trousers and black under shirt. You still had over half an hour before the second bell for Morning Parade and more importantly Breakfast would ring. You mulled over how to spend your remaining time, tightening up your boots and donning your long combat jacket. Finally staring down the perfect picture of a soldier of the motherland in the mirror, you put on your navy beret.
>>
>>5122830
>What is your Name?
>How do you often spend your remaining time?
Pick one

Practice some Neural Sequences and test Synchronization rate before role call.
Gain 10 in Mind.

Get some early PT in running a few laps around the parade ground before role call.
Gain 10 in Body.

Reread Weapon and Equipment operation Manuals before role call.
Gain 10 in Skill

Cram what studying you can get in before role call.
Gain 10 in Smarts.

Stats meaning:
Mind reflects your character's mental fortitude.
Body reflects your character's physical fortitude.
Skill reflects your character's skill with weapons.
Smarts reflect your character's knowledge.
>>
>>5122833
>Mortimer
>Practice some Neural Sequences and test Synchronization rate before role call.
Gain 10 in Mind.
>>
>>5122833
>Mortimer
>Reread Weapon and Equipment operation Manuals before role call.
>>
>>5122833
Reread Weapon and Equipment operation Manuals before role call.
>>
>>5122833
>Mortimer
>Cram what studying you can get in before role call.
Gain 10 in Smarts.
>>
>>5122907

Also forgot name:

>Mortimer
>>
>>5122979
Nvm, I thought >>5122978 messed up sending. You know my votes anon
>>
>>5122833
>Mortimer
>Reread Weapon and Equipment operation Manuals before role call.

I hope we will get a chance to turn rogue. I hate the government in this quest with a passion after what they did to us and.
>>
>>5122902
>>5122907
>>5123125
Sitting comfortably in one of the few padded wooden chairs remaining within the large barren room called home you reread some operation Manuals. You had given each a long look over for many mornings and nights, but the books held valuable information. The Mark 16 Antimatter Thrower, AE12 Launcher and even the 2nd edition Arc Cannon. The weapons had always been an interest to you, intricate technology the melding of foreign and man-made materials. And hopefully how to keep them from not exploding within your hands. Of course, you'd seen things that weren't even allowed to be written down or recorded on paper yet.

The familiar words and directions did stir some feelings of comfort within you, knowing it almost off by heart. Even in your mind you could picture wielding such tools of destruction, even without ever being inside of a Unfiltered Combat Suit. But you had fired small arms before, pistols, rifles and a guard even let you fire off an entire belt from his machine gun at the range once. You smiled at the memory, glancing up just in time to see only a few minutes remained. Wasting no time you neatly returned the booklets to their rightful place and made a quick pace to the parade grounds.

Out in the sparce white hallways you felt even more alone, marching down winding corridors made it seem like you were within an endless white expanse. The pale tiles lit up by the long tube lights above. It wasn't long before you encountered the first sigh of life, the squeak of a radio chirped down the hallway as you began turning a corner and spotted the guard on duty. Sitting at a desk besides a thick and daunting vault door was Guardsman Churvik.
>>
File: 71JNAv-BJlL._AC_SL1000_.jpg (96 KB, 1000x706)
96 KB
96 KB JPG
>>5123261
The moustached old man looked up as the snap of you boots heralded your arrival. "Morning Mortimer! Had a good night? Meet any cute girls? Didn't drink too much I hope?" The aged man spoke down the hallway, his voice echoing towards you as you advanced. The words heavy in cheer and cheek as he knew you hadn't seen any of those things. Thinking fast you replied the best you called. "Oh just Palm-ela keeps me company at night, but boy does she talk." Expressing with your right hand you made it flap open and close like a energetic mouth.

The old man grinned like a fiend as he buzzed his radio, Churvik had been on site since the day you arrived and with every passing year it seemed like he had aged four. His silky white moustache and creased face one of the few friendly bastions. With a hiss the heavy door swung open and the rest of the compound was open to you. "Give em hell Morty." He added as you continued on your way, sharing a nod of thanks. Onwards you go, passing base staff and other guards. None giving you a second glance as the day began.

Under the overcast sky you fell into parade, the cold air putting pep into the step of every man and woman about to go onto duty. Names were called, marching was done. News was read out, nothing of note again and finally you escaped the cold. Marching back inside to eat. The mess hall was nearly as empty as your dorm, only a few tables were occupied. Picking up a tray you wasted no time grabbing some toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage and some fried tomato slices. The rumbling in your stomach increased your pace as you grabbed a paper cup of hot coffee. Observing the hall you decided by who to sit with. An empty table cried out for someone to claim a seat, a pair of guards were busy chatting back and forth, a few scientists were eating silently and the roar of your stomach demanded more protein.

>Who do you sit with?

>Sit by Yourself.
Gain 10 Mind.

>Take seconds and sit by Yourself.
Gain 10 Body.

>Sit with the Guards.
Gain 10 Skill.

>Sit with the Scientists.
Gain 10 Smarts.
>>
>>5123264
>sit with the scientists
We big brain
>>
>>5123264
>Take seconds and sit by Yourself.
Gain 10 Body.
>>
>>5123264
>>Sit with the Scientists.
>>
>>5123264
>Take seconds and sit by Yourself.
Gain 10 Body.
>>
>>5123264
>Take seconds and sit by Yourself.
>>
>>5123345
>>5123353
>>5123676
Writing
>>
File: Grapl, Brian Sum.jpg (88 KB, 686x1000)
88 KB
88 KB JPG
>>5123721
Turning away from the small bands of people you decide to sit by yourself, but only after grabbing seconds. Returning to the serving line you began loading up on proteins and carbs, you were going to grab another coffee but the hefty tray was woefully unbalanced. The second trip earned you a few glances from the kitchen staff and other diners but no one said anything. Almost as if they know you'd be needing it. Dropping into your seat with a sigh of relief you set about devouring your haul. The warm food was delicious and hearty chasing away the cold that had tried to infiltrate your young bones.

Body busy tending to itself and your mind begins wondering about the day to come. Today was the Day, your schedule hadn't changed so far, but that would happen soon. This was probably the last time you'd be eating here. You thought as much anyway. After breakfast you would be meeting with Mistress Yuga, the time had come. You remember the lessons well, at the age of 15 mental elasticity was best suited for initial unfiltered uplinking. This would be your best chance at successful interfacing with a combat suit. To bond with a Phobos. Free from any defense your mind will be shackled to the alien machinery, facing the Phobos alone and forced to overcome it or subdue it. Whispered rumours say some pilots even settle on just sharing it at least, the idea frightened you.

You worried a little, but years of training had led all up to this one point. You couldn't help being a little excited too, but you tried not to show it. Many died undergoing such attempts, the risks weren't lost on you. And while you didn't know the true depths of what happened to the first or second generation pilots you knew of the advances their lives had earned. You hoped they would be enough to secure your survival. Rumours were everywhere, like rats scuttling about spreading words like plague. The voices, the pain and obviously the madness. You knew a lot of it was restricted information, top secret stuff. But so few people were even eligible to pilot such weapons, when a lot of them start going insane people will notice.
>>
>>5123799
But you knew war was far from easy on the minds of men, but you had also heard of apparent mutations. Savoring the salty glory of a stand of bacon you wondered where the other applicants were. Had their minds broken like toys in the hands of fumbling adults? Did their failure cost them a long walk off a short pier? The questions almost put you off your food. But you didn't stop, you had made it this far. You didn't really have any other choice. Finishing up you slurped down the warm coffee and returned your tray. The walk towards Mistress Yuga's office was a long one, through two similar heavy vault doors you were forced to pass. The guards double check your identification at every stop, their new faces unrecognizable. The elevator ride down into the sub basements almost made you late.

But arriving on time you were ushered in by her assistant, smartly marching in and snapping to attention. The worn and haggard face of the woman glanced up from her desk for only a second. Blonde hair over one shoulder, she wore a grim scar without any shyness. You had never seen the woman show much in the way of emotion, beside cold calculation. Her voice husky and heavy as a thick cloud of smoke joined in escaping from her lips. "At ease Corporal, take a seat." Placing a long cigarette to her lips the woman leant back, the cherry glowing hot as she took an immensely deep pull. A stream of smoke flowing from her nose and mouth, you half expected some to escape her ears too. Finding a seat, Mistress Yuga opened the black folder that lay across her smooth metal desk.

You recognized the small photo stapled in the corner, it was your folder. "Applicant #391, You're the only subject to complete the full course. Congratulations. You have passed and with flying colours too. Your Synchronization rate when even undergoing meshed interference is far beyond average. You've impressed us all very much Mortimer." The woman spoke with a flat tone, the revelations news to you. A tinge of pride started to rise, she almost sounded proud of you. Well in her own way. "Preparations are being put in order, you'll be undergoing unfiltered linking and further stability testing along with Phobos exercises by tomorrow. The flight plan has been scheduled and by lunch we'll be in Kahva."
>>
>>5123801
You were leaving, finally after all this time. You couldn't help but smile, even under the stern woman's gaze. "Until then, rest up. We will be in the air by 1000, have your feet on the pad by 0930." You sat in the chair, shock and glee numbing your body. The woman barely reacted to your own hesitation. "You're free to leave Corporal, unless you have any questions for me?" She inquired, closing the folder and taking another deep inhale.

>What do you do?

>Ask a question? Write in.

>Head back to your dorm and rest.
Gain 10 Mind.

>Spend your new found energy on some PT
Gain 10 Body.

>Take a spin at the range.
Gain 10 Skill.

>Go and study.
Gain 10 Knowledge

Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown: Prize of the Theta Project.

Current Stats:
Mind: 10
Body: 20
Skill: 20
Smarts: 10
>>
>>5123810
>take a spin at the range.

>Question: "mistress, are the Phobos intended to be deployed as a team? Because. . Well."

An obvious question. We are the only one who made it through so let's inquire if there is still anyone left piloting these things.
>>
>>5123810

>Take a spin at the range

Let's get shooty
>>
>>5123810
>Take a spin at the range.
Gain 10 Skill.
>>
>>5123810
>Ask a question? Write in.
Are there different types of phobos? If so which will we be assigned?

>>Take a spin at the range.
>>
File: mgs5-sahelanthropus.jpg (196 KB, 1000x1240)
196 KB
196 KB JPG
>>5123836
>>5123843
>>5123888
>>5123989
Perched on your seat you couldn't move, not yet. You had to ask about the others, you just needed to know at least before you left. "Mistress, are the Phobos intended to be deployed as a team? Because… Well." You shrug awaiting an answer, suddenly sweat starts to trailing down your back. Mistress Yuga mulled over your words, clearly enjoying her cigarette. A deep sigh answered first, casting a thick smokescreen between the both of you before her words followed. Through the haze you almost swore you caught her stony exterior softening.

But the dark cloud stung your eyes and when you could focus again she was her cold usual self. "Do not worry Corporal, while you may be the only successful candidate from the Theta Project. Many other Phobos Pilots are being developed by similar projects. However our criteria for selection is distinctly stricter than most, we only wish to produce the best Mortimer. The Motherland has a healthy reserve, so you will be far from alone… although many will pale in comparison." She declared, returning the cigarette to her lips and watching you expectantly.

You were surprised, her words seeming truthful enough that you asked another question. "Are there different types of Phobos? If so, which will I be assigned?" You were excited now, you had seen a few of the battle suits. But never up close, never in-depth enough. Mistress Yuga nodded and spoke, the cigarette between her lips dangerously wobbling up and down, the ember carving through the smoke as she straightened up to address you. "Yes, every Phobos unit is unique. We have yet to discover any identical constructs, while some may share similar systems and designs. Each is handcrafted. By whom were they made or where? We do not know. But every one is a beautiful, intricate and beloved piece. As we speak many are being fitted with our own systems and weapons, each is a marvel of machinery. Of the three classes I'm sure you know, the Knight, Prince and Emperor class suits. You have been chosen to operate and attempt to link with an Emperor class Phobos. However if you failed to do so, you'd likely be given a second chance with a Prince class. However, any further details I cannot share with you."
>>
>>5124054
The woman declared coldly, you were caught off guard. An Emperor Class Phobos. You only knew of two, only two had ever been reported in service. Dreadnaughts dense with armor and weaponry, both rumoured to be insane killing machines. But almost everything was a damned rumour. You had heard enough. Nodding your understanding you stood up. Snapping to attention and saying farewell. Unshackled for the remaining hours on base you decided to have some fun and cut loose. Who knows what rigors you'd be faced with in Kahva. Floating back the way you had come the entire world felt light, almost as if you took too deep a breath you'd float away.

Gliding on your second wind, you found your way to the firing range. The place was deserted so early in the morning, knocking against the chain link fence that separates the armory from the small locker room. You waited, impatiently tapping your foot. A woman appeared from the back room, face clearly not expecting anyone this early. Quickly checking out your side arm and rifle, you went about going through safety checks and without any hurdles you stood in lane. A box of rounds for each weapon, gingerly typing in 200 meters into the ranging pad. A deep orange hologram flickered into existence. The excitement lulled as you spent a few minutes loading the magazines for your FG511. The FG511 is a rather compact rifle, the ergonomic fore grip and subsonic rounds making it especially lethal in close quarters.

Well just as lethal as any other gun that existed, but it was a little less likely to deafen you. From full auto, to semi and even burst fire. The weapon's range was limited by it's short barrel. The break action Tyrant 53 pistol only holds l eight rounds in the cylinder so you settled on loading it after. Shouldering the weapon you sent a few rounds down range, half arsed as you got comfortable. Orange glass shattered as a round clipped the hologram in the leg. Quickly it reformed into the shape of a man. The taste, the smell and roar of gunfire was like cold water to your long overheated system. Everything seemed to fall into place as you continued firing.
>>
>>5124057
!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+

Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown: Prize of the Theta Project.

Current Stats:
Mind: 10
Body: 20
Skill: 30
Smarts: 10
Sanity: 110
>>
Rolled 6, 4, 2 + 3 = 15 (3d6 + 3)

>>5124070
>>
Rolled 5, 5, 5 + 3 = 18 (3d6 + 3)

>>5124070
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 4 = 15 (3d6)

>>5124070
>>
File: MP412.jpg (24 KB, 448x286)
24 KB
24 KB JPG
>>5124074
>>5124075
>>5124128
15, 15, 18
!!TEST PASSED!!
+10 Sanity Gained

Leaning into the weapon your body relaxed before tightening up, your finger pulling the trigger softly. Anticipating the recoil you focused on your target, a short burst of full auto rang out. The first few rounds catch the hologram in the chest, the recoil raising the last enough to clip and shatter the target's head. Sending big chunks of holographic brain matter careening through the air. You took a steady breath and waited for the machine to reset, pinpoint readings popped up on the small touch screen pad. Highlighting the lethality of your shots. All 6 rounds had hit, 4 were on center mass and the last two had struck the jaw and forehead almost directly. You smiled and fired again.

Again and again the body was dealt lethal damage, even after dropping back another hundred meters your deadeye did it's work. As the last round left the chamber you let out a sigh of relief, you had beaten your high score significantly. Only missing a few rounds when the target was quite far away. Resting the weapon down, you flicked through the pad examining the numerous dead target holograms. Many hologram women would be widowed this day, many hologram orphans would cry for their dead fathers. Tapping up a reset, you switched to the Tyrant 53.

Plenty of time remained to finish off the box of rounds and make it back to your dorm to pack. The sulfuric mist that danced around your lane put you at ease, an acrid numbing that dulled your mind as you smoothly loaded the cylinder. The taste of metal was in the air and the hint of two day old farts. As the lane was filtering out, a single target stood 150 meters away. Smoke swirling towards the ventilation ducts cast the lane as some western main street, the sun almost high in the sky. The clock tower is crying out for high noon. You locked eyes with the orange yellow bellied bastard. "Draw!" You declared out loud, raising your weapon smoothly with both hands and firing only a single shot. All in one smooth motion. It was over before you knew it. The recoil rumbling up your arms as the revolver bucked under your grip. The orange face flexed turning almost completely inside out as the back of the target's head was blossoming across the lane.
>>
File: the JUMP-GATE.jpg (133 KB, 680x964)
133 KB
133 KB JPG
>>5124602
You felt reinvigorated, the next few rounds being sent on their way without second thought. Again and again until you had emptied the second box. Another broken high score, your practice had clearly paid off. You tried not to let your ego swell too much. Even if you couldn't bond with a Phobos in Kahva you could at least shoot accurately. Standing alone in lane you mulled over the Phobos, everything sinking in a little more. Every Phobos was unique, you hadn't know that. Many that you had seen were fitted to resemble each other, same paint scheme and armor and weaponry. But you guessed even the machine had a uniform. The idea of linking unfiltered to an Emperor class suit, was a bit daunting. The neural feedback, the calibration.

You know the Phobos fight back, but the mental conditioning you received had been pretty generalized. You had assumed it was in case you had been captured and underwent torture. But you weren't sure anymore. Few pilots get the chance to really share the details and if they did. You'd only get rumours of what they'd say. You were cut off from the world. Truth was a day dream and nothing was certain. Finished you decided to return to your dorm and pack up what you owned. Checking back in your weapons you said your farewell to the tools and strode away. You felt calm on the walk back, a few of the technicians even gave you a nod as you passed. Word has probably slipped out, everyone new the helicopter coming today would whisk you off to really become a pilot.

Guardsman Churvik interrupted your daze as he spoke. "How did it go Morty my boy?" You came to a halt, facing the man reclining in his seat as the vault door closed behind you. "I passed, I'll be heading to Kahva to complete my training today." You said sheepishly. The old man's faced creased up even more as he smiled. "Congratulations Mortimer, I'm glad. Kahva has some very pretty girls yah know, it will be good for you to get out there. Empress knows you've been cooped up in here long enough." Leaning forward the man patted your arm harshly. "Damned good boy, make us proud out there." He declared, pushing you among with each thump of encouragement. Thanking him you went on your way.
>>
File: 31as6+q6xDL._AC_~2.jpg (2 KB, 111x123)
2 KB
2 KB JPG
>>5124604
Slumping onto you bed, you checked the small digital clock on the side table. You still had an hour before having to be on the pad. You didn't have much to pack, taking the moment to really relax. The dead silence helped you feel calm and at peace. Kahva was waiting for you. You grinned, it had been so long since you had left the facility. Sitting up you went about packing. Pulling a checkered backpack from your locker you took your time folding up spare uniforms and underwear and packing them. It was all clothes, but something fell out between a pair a socks. You hadn't seen it in a while. It had been hidden away, far behind your second pair of boots. Untouched. A tiny green T-Rex. It was a little scuffed, but it was yours.

You were far beyond the intended age range, but even still you let him have a strut across your bed. Clambering atop your pack to roar out and declare himself boldly to the world. You chuckled amusing yourself. It was the only thing the staff hadn't given to you, but you couldn't remember where it had come from. Time was almost up. You had to be on the pad soon. Finishing up you turned the the small toy back and forth in your hand.

>What do you do?
Keep the Toy.
Leave the Toy.
>>
>>5124606
With a little bit of time left to spare you finished and made a start towards the helicopter landing pad. Churvik stood as you approached the vault door for the final time. "Goodbye Chu-" you had started to say when near to the man, but he moved surprisingly quick. Wrapping both his arms around you, standing there stunned. You were unsure what to do. He wasn't attacking you, the old man was hugging you, arms by your side you froze as the man gave you two tight squeezes. Threatening to lift you off the ground with each. You stood in the same shocked state as he let go. "Goodbye Morty. Be sure to take good care of yourself." The old man's voice faulter for a second. You were unsure what to do. Flabbergasted you smiled at him. "Thank you, I'll do my best."

+10 Sanity Gained

Satisfied with you answer the radio chirped twice and the door swung open. The route to your destination was smooth and once again. Perfectly on time you marched up to Mistress Yuga and smartly snapped to attention. The overcast sky was above, the winds whipping around the pad chilling you to the bone almost instantly. All present wore thick jackets. "At ease Corporal. Put this on." The woman declared through a cloud of smoke and mist as she handed you a matching jacket. Thankful you quickly pulled it on and stood amongst the gathering of people. Technicians, scientists and a few guards stood by luggage and cargo ready to load. Yuga's assistant gave you a short wave as the crowd stood in silence.

Over the wind you couldn't hear it until it split the clouds. A sleek helicopter kicked up the wind even further, threatening to send your beret flying. Acting fast enough you pinned it to the top of your head with a free hand. Mistress Yuga's cigarette wasn't as lucky, you watched it spiral off the side of the building and vanish into the heavy fog around. With a bounce the craft set down, the blades halted. Rear and side doors opened and the rush to escape the cold wind began. Clambering aboard the large interior was enough for everyone and the cargo. People began to sit down and you were left with a decision on where to sit.
>>
>>5124609
>Who do you sit with?
>What do you say?write in.

>Sit beside the few technicians?
>Sit beside Mistress Yuga?
>Sit beside the guards?
>Sit by yourself? Say nothing.


Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown: Prize of the Theta Project.

Current Stats:
Mind: 10
Body: 20
Skill: 30
Smarts: 10
Sanity: 130
>>
>>5124611
>Keep the Toy.
>Sit beside the guards?
Talk about breaking your record at the range. Humbly of course.
>>
>>5124611
>Sit by yourself? Say nothing

> Keep the toy

It's an appropriate hood ornament for a big war machine desu.
>>
>>5124611
>Keep toy
It's ours. One thing that proves we aren't just the governments.

>Sit by ourselves, say nothing
>>
>>5124611
>Keep the Toy.
>Sit beside the guards?
Gonna join in on this.
>>
>>5124611

>Keep the Toy.
>Sit beside the guards?
>>
>>5124611
>Keep the Toy.
>Sit beside the guards?
>>
>>5124748
>>5124926
>>5125071
>>5125088
Deciding against sitting alone you settle on being beside the guards, you were all soldiers after all. Feeling a little shy you gingerly approached the two armored soldiers, the pair wore the typical concrete grey vests, padding and helmets. Somewhere under all that protection was the thin clothing you currently wore. Slipping your hand into your pocket you rolled the small dinosaur between your fingers, building up courage as the friction warmed the plastic toy. You felt a little underdressed, joining as they stowed their gear you did the same. Lodging your rather light bag under a seat, ignoring the sidelong glances as you took your seat. The pair eventually fell into their seats as all along the interior, cargo was restrained and passengers were either talking or trying to get comfortable on the thin padding.

Leaning close, you introduce yourself with a stutter to your neighbors. "H-hello I'm Mortimer… I'm a Corporal." You reach out your hand towards the guards, both watch you for a moment. An awkward pause hanging in the air as you kept your hand held out. The nearest guard took it hesitantly and gave you a firm shake. "Guardsman Smith, Second class." He replied, voice deep and gravely, his companion let out a soft chuckle. The noise distinctly feminine, next she reached out as he let go. Taking your hand and shaking it enthusiastically, mimicking Smith's tone. "Guardsman Suranovich, Second Class." You smiled a little embarrassed, cheeks burning as you blushed. "It's good to meet you." You added right after, cursing yourself for not saying it the first time. They both returned the courtesy.

The helicopter began to hum as engines whined and the craft stirred to life. Flight crew shut doors and double checked secured equipment. The noise grew, a steady building storm until you could hear nothing else. For a second you thought you would go deaf, but then the ground fell away. Even though you could feel the metal grating below your feet, you flinched, your soul and breath back on the helipad. Screaming the helicopter rose far into the clouds and as quickly as it had come, the sound was muffled. Resting your beret in your lap, without warning your ears popped uncomfortably as internal seals locked and sound suppression kicked in further. For a few minutes your mind wondered, glancing around the others who whispered amongst themselves or read. Through the small windows you could glimpse nothing but grey clouds. Then an elbow bumped you, turning towards the sources.
>>
File: Polish_20220117_204320500.jpg (2.75 MB, 4096x4096)
2.75 MB
2.75 MB JPG
>>5125331
Guardsman Smith having taken off his own helmet, Suranovich doing the same while he spoke. "Morty, right? 38/45, you got the skills to pay the bills. We all were bloody wondering who was scoring top three on base and wasn't even on arms duty. Are you some officer's kid or something?" Smith asks his strong jaw working out the words, Suranovich leant in to examine you, her vibrant red hair a surprise. "He's a Corporal Smith…" She muttered with a shake of her head, her deep blue eyes flickering onto the others present. "He's with the Interior Ministry." She said with confidence in her deduction, cocking her head towards Mistress Yuga. Smith's eyes widened a little at the words.

You too were caught off guard and didn't know how to reply. You had thought everyone knew why you were there, you own idiocy embarrassing you further. You sat further back in your seat unsure what to say as the two watch you. Stepping around the awkward topic you spoke up. "Well I actually beat that score… I got 42/45 this morning. So I'm technically 2nd on base…" Smith raised an eyebrow at your words, Suranovich just rolled her eyes before speaking again. "Well he clearly isn't good at espionage, so what are you? Psionics?" You blinked, you definitely weren't psionics. But you were unsure if you could actually share the truth with them, giving Mistress Yuga a sly glance, you found her flicking through folders. Trying your best at stealth you lean closer to smith and whisper softly to him. "Phobos Pilot."

He nodded, understanding and passing the message along to Suranovich. She shrugged, almost unimpressed. "Well like I said Morty, plenty of men stationed back on base are gonna be aiming to dethrone you. Maybe even from other projects." You nod, you hadn't even thought about that, how many other pilots would see Morty up there and aim to beat you. "So they ain't keeping any Psionics down there?" Suranovich added, interrupting your thoughts. "I don't think so…" The woman pouted, but eventually her smile returned. Kicking out both legs and stretching wide in her seat, an elbow bumping smith as she reaches for the stars. "Oh well, at least we are finally out of that bloody box. It might not be real leave but security detail is better than standing around in some empty corridor."
>>
>>5125336
You nodded, your own excitement taking over too. "I've never been to Kahva before, is it nice?" You inquired as the mood turned light. "It is great, really a beautiful city. Full of gorgeous women who love a man in uniform!" Smith spoke with stars in his eyes, you grinned even more. You were in uniform after all. You had never been to a city before. "I can't wait to grab a beer and a cutie when off duty. Security detail is piss easy." Suranovich said with a satisfied sigh, basking in a light you couldn't see. The pair were clearly very happy at the prospect of visiting Kahva. Their enthusiasm was rubbing off on you.

Rocking in your seat your mind a buzz of possibilities, you might even meet other pilots. You might even get to talk to them. And also as the rumours imply, cute girls too. With everyone in their own minds the conversation trails off as imaginations flared. Hours seemed to pass until a voice blared through the internal speaker system. Declaring the upcoming approach, the words woke everyone from the dull stupor that had coated the helicopter. Looking up, your eyes locked onto Mistress Yuga's own. Checking her watch you turned away. "Corporal. Catch!" She declared without warning, reflectively your hands raised even as you flinched.

Catching a small metal object, opening your palm to find a large pin. A white skull, the Greek letter for theta painted in a bold crimson in the center of it's forehead. Pinning the Sigil to your beret you quickly put it on, trying it out. Smith gave you an admiring nod as Suranovich shot you a thumbs up. Then the helicopter decided to fall out of the sky, leaving your soul up in the clouds and wiping the grin off your face. And with an uncomfortable bump the aircraft landed, you didn't know who to thank. So you just thanked everyone. Before you could give the guardsmen even more than a goodbye Mistress Yuga had whisked you onto the helipad.
>>
>>5125337
Stepping out into the wind you squinted against the snowfall, but the moment you saw Kahva your eyes widened. The city climbed up into the clouds all around you, vibrant and glowing. You struggled to breath, the sight freezing you before the wind did, looking all around you soaked in the megacity. "Keep up Corporal!" Yuga shouted towards you, a technician freeing you from the spot and guiding you towards the small door that led you off the pad. Inside people flowed all about, soldiers in snowy camo and others in jumpsuits. Mistress Yuga was ahead in the crowd, talking to a woman you didn't recognize and before you knew it you had been herded into a small room.

Only a few scientists and staff stood about talking. Awkwardly you stood by yourself, straightening your beret while trying to look busy. Being around so many people made anxiety blossom, the small dinosaur helped calm you down. Looking up as you could feel eyes focus on you only to find Mistress Yuga and the other woman watching intently, the stranger wearing a lab coat and combat boots. Crossing the room the pair approached, giving you a good look. You noticed she was a foreigner, you weren't really used to seeing one. She possessed slim eyes and dark short hair. "Corporal Mortimer! I've heard a lot about you. It's good to finally meet. I'm Dr. Yumigawa, but you can call me Haru if you like." She says eagerly, hand held out. You took it and gave it a soft shake. "Would you like to see your quarters first? Are you tired? Or are you raring to meet everyone else!" She said cheerfully, jostling from side to side in a little excited jig. You were unsure what to do, turning to mistress Yuga for assistance. She only spoke coldly. "Well Corporal?"

>Well Corporal what do you do?
>What do you say?write in.

>Check out your quarters first?

>Meet everyone else?
>>
>>5125338
>Meet everyone else?
It's now or never let's meet everyone.
>>
>>5125338
>Meet everyone else?
>>
>>5125338
>Meet everyone else
>>
>>5125338
>>Meet everyone else?
>>
>>5125500
>>5125567
>>5126297
>>5126403
You didn't expect so much to happen in such a short span of time. But you guessed this is what change was like. "Well I should probably say hello first…" You mumble out, eyes dropping to your boots. You knew you were out of your element, but you'd do your best. Yumigawa smiles wide, patting you on the arm playfully. "Now that's the spirit, no need to be shy. Yuga, Alexi will show you to the office. Ask him for anything, he'll do his best to get it." Fear swelled, you thought your Mistress would be accompanying you. You give her a worried glance, but the woman either failed to read your emotions or just didn't care. Probably both when you thought about it. "Come along Mortimer." The doctor says, pushing you back out of the room and into the hallway. Less people are around as she leads you through a network of indistinct hallways.

"How was the flight? Not too bumpy I hope!" She was cheerful and bright. You felt a little dull in her presence. "Oh it was only a little rough when we landed." She nodded vigorously, long white coat flapping as she spun to look at you. "I have hated flying ever since I was little. Even up here my legs feel bloody wobbly!" The doctor made an exaggerated example by wobbling with each step. Passing through a doorway into another hallway the ambient lighting changed dramatically, the oppressive fluorescent bulbs were replaced by an entire wall of glass. A massive window stretched all the way along on one side, you could see the city clearer. You felt your legs tremble at the sight, wide walkways branched between towers as helicopters cut through the clouds. Down below a nest of roads intertwined as countless lights danced across them.

Stepping closer you pressed against the glass, small figures walked below. From so high up they were just as small as the snowflakes that bumped into the glass. Turning up the towers climbed further into the clouds until they vanished into a featureless sea of white. "Pretty cool sight huh, well you better get used to it. You'll be stationed here until we get you and a Phobos engine sorted." You said nothing, in awe of the city. You hadn't known what to expect. "It so big." Was all you could muster. The woman let out a chuckle strangely enough watching you more than the cityscape. For a few minutes more you watch eventually pulling away as you began to feel hot. Slipping off your coat you stuff it into your bag. Yumigawa stood by bemused. "Ready?" She asked kindly, with a nod the pair of you set off.
>>
>>5126461
Zipping up in an elevator and through another sprawling mess of rooms you passed more people in a few minutes than you had seen in your entire youth. It was overwhelming, but after long you barely even registered them. Nothing but blank faces in the crowd. One thing did send a chill down your spine. A vault door, to either side stood men in black marking less combat gear. You felt them weighing you threat level through their blacked out visors. Avoid any eye contact you kept close to the doctor. You knew you had arrived as the hefty block of metal hissed shut behind you. Pivoting on the balls of her feet Yumigawa gave you a reassuring smile and held out a hand. "Give me your pack. I'll drop it off in your room while you are with the others." Hesitating a little, you handed it over.

Clutching your pack the woman let out a hooting roar as she began strutting down the corridor, the walls held fancy art. Paintings or drawings of cottages in the woods or horses in a field. The drone of voices came into earshot as you advanced, through a cracked door shadows moved and someone laughed. Your heart pounded, drumming a mad beat as you struggle to keep up. You swore the air was growing hot as you swallowed it down forcefully. The doctor let out another excited holler as she kicked the ajar door open with full force. Bloody hell what have you gotten yourself into. Following her in, you were the center of attention as the doctor at your side held her hands on her hips triumphantly. "Listen up Pilots! The Theta candidate has arrived. Say a big ole howdy to Mortimer!" She declared happily, clapping enthusiastically. "Howdy!" A girl in a white beret chirped out sarcastically. No one else made a peep.

The others present were all young, obviously the same age as you or close enough for linking. "Hello everyone!" You say out rather loud, trying to match the woman's gumption and eclipse her rather thunderous clapping. Only earning another set of clapping from the doctor. "Yeah! We have only got a couple of candidates left, so enjoy your time off. Because once everyone else arrives you'll be pushed to the limit!" Clearly excited by the idea Yumigawa back tracked out of the room and with a wink she slammed the door shut. Abandoning you to your fate. Turning back around you found almost every eye on you, but with her gone the crowd's attention was quickly drawn away. Standing alone you examined the room. The recreation room was the size of a large hall, in the far corner you could make out dining tables, the nearest area was mostly littered with sofas, coffee tables and television sets.
>>
File: DSCN8037.jpg (78 KB, 1024x768)
78 KB
78 KB JPG
>>5126463
A gang of girls in crimson berets sat whispering, their eyes flickering onto you before a trail of laughter followed. Two Pool tables and a pingpong table rested in another corner, a group of boys in grey berets skulking around it. Everyone was among their corresponding groups, a boy and two girls were playing cards, two tall boys in green berets were flicking cards at each other. By herself in an armchair the girl the white beret was busy reading. Or at least that's what you assumed she was pretending to be doing. Every few seconds she'd look at you. Bloody hell, you noticed everyone was bloody looking at you. "Ok…" You stammered out a little unsure of what to do. Then you noticed, everyone wore clothes. Normal clothes. Shorts and shirts. A few girls even had on dresses. You alone stood in full regalia, it was all you really had to wear. You couldn't help being overdressed.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say?

>Approach the group of boys around the game tables?

>Approach the group of girls around the sofas?

>Approach the group playing cards?

>Approach the two boys throwing cards?

>Approach the girl by herself?

>Sit by yourself?

>Sneak out and see if you can find your room?
>>
>>5126468
>Sit by yourself?
>>
>>5126468
>>Approach the girl by herself?
>>
>>5126468
>Approach the girl by herself?
>>
>>5126468
>>Approach the girl by herself?

Alright placing a bet on psion.
>>
File: yellowshirt.jpg (297 KB, 1453x1920)
297 KB
297 KB JPG
>>5126829
>>5126886
>>5127890
>>5128085
You slid a hand into your pocket, the dino safely buried there. Like a little plastic fossil, you couldn't help wondering how many dinosaurs melted down to make the little green toy. You almost smiled, feeling better with it in your grasp. Focusing on the girl by herself, you decide to target the loner. Like a true pack hunter. Taking a deep breath you decided to stride right over, hesitation was thrown from the window screaming as it fell. You glimpsed her eyes tracking you, clearly trying her best to hide it. With the sneaky act of brushing her hair aside, she locked eyes with you. You almost stop, but ignoring the whispering smirks of the group of crimson berets you keep up the assault. You were out of the boat now. You just had to make it up the beach, stepping around a shin-high coffee table, you dodged blanketing machine gun fire and inched closer and closer.

She was still looking at you, but it didn't slow until you were right up to the bunker. As you reach a few meters away the girl returns her attention to the book on her lap pretending to read, just very poorly. Coming to a halt a few feet apart, you hopped into the trench line and skewered her with a word shaped bayonet. "Howdy." For a moment there is silence. Then she cracks a smile, struggling to keep a straight face before forcing it to drop. The other pilot releases a loud huff, her nostrils flaring as she looks up, glaring at you. Cool blue eyes full of hate. Getting a closer look you could clearly make out the pin on her own Beret. A black coffin with a white Eta symbol sitting in the center, she wore it loosely on her head. That was not regulation at all, neither was her hair cut. Her hair was black and long, bangs hung from the lip of her beret hiding her forehead. You two were the only people without comrades.

The girl was skinny, her thin thighs jutting out of her shorts, the loose t-shirt she wore showing off her small arms. A large yellow creature was on the shirt, oddly you didn't recognize it. Some kind of fictional cartoon character, it had blue lightning zapping out of it's well defined butt. it was no dinosaur you knew of, you presumed she must have made it herself. The art was very strange but the two small mounds caught your eyes as well. For a second they were just as confusing as the yellow monster, but then you recognized what they were. The girl leans forward, her eyes sliding along until they align with your own. "Can I help you?" She asks, her words dripping with venom. She wasn't bad looking, well you thought so. But you didn't have much of a scale of reference.
>>
>>5128233
You guessed she could be cute. Kahva was keeping up it's end of the deal so far. Unsure of how to answer the rude question, you shrug looking around the room. A few eyes were on you, without backing down you continued. "I'm the only candidate to pass Theta… are you the only person from Eta? Or..." You say hoping you could find some common ground. "Notice that all by yourself did yah? Or do you need another look? Those failures in Eta couldn't keep up with me! You should remember that." You noted it down mentally, shifting from foot to foot as it became more and more uncomfortable to be around her. But you weren't giving up. Not yet anyway. "What's your name?" She inhales sharply next, rolling her eyes. She was looking further beyond annoyed, leaning back in her chair and crossing her arms.

"My name is Katerina, anything else? Want my bra size too?" She said out louder then needed, loud enough for a few heads to spin. The boys were grinning now too as the crimson girls barely restrained themselves from cackling like hyenas. Your blood began to run cold, sweat dripping down your ribs. Before long you'd be sweating through your clothes. Whipping your brow you noticed her own eyes flicker to the right. Onto the girls, a devilish grin spreading slowly before she tucked her lips away and licked them. Then they flicker back onto you, like a snake she licks her lips again. Tasting your fear probably. The grin quickly returned, shutting her book, she then rested an elbow on the arm of the large chair. Her chin landed on it snuggly. "How was Theta then? Tough?" She asked, the attitude slipping.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and leave Katerina alone.
>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
>Activate Self-destruct and take her down with you.
>>
>>5128242
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.

> "Manageable, I guess. Like you said, maybe the others were just too weak. How long you been practicing that aura of venomous mystery?"

Also dammit OP do not immediately throw a girl who wants nothing to do with us right off the bat, I'm a sucker for those.
>>
>>5128242
>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say?
>I was 2 years on my own and the first candidate I saw in that time is telling me we aren't on the same level.
>Yeah it's really great being considered for an Emperor Class Phobos. Can you stop the act and just accept that I am socialy stunted since
I haven't seen anyone near my age in, oh. Let me remind you 2 fucking years. Also don't need your bra size to know you are flat.
>>
>>5128242
>>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
>>Theta was rather.. lonley, my group was filtered hard, that's how i ended up for 2 years all by my lonesome.
They said that they try me on the Emperor class one, i guess you too?
>>
>>5128242
>>What do you do, Pilot?
Remember training, steel your mind and body.
The combat, the cold, the exercises, the reading.
Again and again, and again.
We are from Theta project. We are steel and cold, in flesh.
Then talk

>>What do you say? Write in.

"Good, my name is Mortimer, Corporal. Yes i want to know what kind of training Eta project candidates have gone through so i can compare it with my own. Simple."
".. No ? I would prefer if you answer my question i don t see why that information is relevant. It s not something personal for you ?"
"Theta ? It was good, i have learned and trained much there. There where many trials and tests of different kind, all of them prepared us for be proper soldiers. But it s only me left now. Beside that they will let me test an Emperor Class Phobos apperantly. Will you test one as well Katerina ?"
>>
File: eyes-hd.jpg (14 KB, 600x300)
14 KB
14 KB JPG
>>5128259
>>5128260
>>5128273
>>5128315
You blush, flustering and trying to save your reputation reply loudly. "No thank you! That is private information, you don't have to tell me that." You watch a corner of the room that no one was in until your face cools down. Without further restraint it was time to attack. Twisting the bayonet hard you pull the foot stool beside the large chair over and sit down. Face like the armour of a Phobos. Calm and collected. The girl watching you like prey, only occasionally blinking. Almost never. Unlike you, you were blinking like crazy. Not very calm and only partially collected. You just wanted to make small talk like a regular person. But Katerina had asked and you would share, there wasn't anything in your past that ashamed you. And that knowledge gave you strength. You are Theta, the small dinosaur in your grip reinforced that. It made you feel secure even under the unwarranted meanness.

Pushing any hint of anger aside you spoke, low enough for her alone to hear. Trying your best to not hesitate. Trying to sound normal, no matter how abnormal it was. "Theta was manageable, it was good. I passed, I guess. I must be better than the others too… I'm Corporal. I mean my name is Mortimer, I am a Corporal." You are not ashamed. Keeping up the assault you drove a knee into her. Tapping the skull on your beret and shooting her a soft smile.

Well you hope that's how it looked. "Theta was tough... It has pretty much been just me for the last two years, I think it was the meshed interference trails that really filtered out the other candidates. But no one ever told me, they'd just leave and never come back. We underwent a lot of endurance PT between bouts of neural strain. We would do it for days on end… We were whittled away until it was just me." You chuckle, trying to break the rather dark turn. A joke might save it before she thought you were a complete headcase. You gave her some more rope to work with. Trying to be down to earth. Not strange. "Was it like that in Eta? Is that how you got that noir aura of venomous mystery? Because I really dig it." Do people say dig? A staffer used to say it on base all the damn time. Yah dig? She gives you a rather puzzled look, but seems to be mulling over your words.
>>
>>5128444
Her eyes scan the rec room and then settle back onto you, leaning a little closer she replies. "Sounds lonely, a real tear jerker. Eta was fucking brutal. Nothing but hard cunts, brass had us running live fire drills any chance they got. Only ever did synchro dives. No meshing or any of that fancy shit. We didn't even get food. Used to eat the snow, so yeah it was a little tough in Eta. But I'm the only one still alive." The words were matter of fact and dead pan. She had pulled the pin on a grenade, blowing you up before you called finish the job. Your jaw was agape, you thought you had it bad. Live fire drills only happened twice a year. Katerina's face was grim.

Rustling about, she produced a slim red box from her pocket. Pulling back a tab you spotted what was inside, about half a pack of cigarettes. Pulling one free you noticed it's shape, it was rolled in the shape of a square instead of being round. "Got a light?" You shook your head, earning another disappointed sigh from the girl. Rustling in the other pocket of her thigh high shorts she whipped out a small lighter. As she lit up you spoke, you could relate a little easily sounding sincere. "I'm sorry, that sounds awful. My Mistress says I'm a prospect for an Emperor class, so something good came out of it right? What about you?" As she took a deep pull, you noticed a few turning heads out the corner of your eye, you sure they hadn't heard.

But the smoke was very noticeable. "Mistress? Actually I'd rather not know…" Katerina grinned, showing her fangs like a vicious snake, strands of smoke trailing out. "Here I was thinking you were some socially inept Knight, guess the ministry doesn't worry about strapping an idiot into their death machines. Because they plan to put me in an Emperor Class as well." You smile. A weight off your shoulders, you were no social butterfly but it seems like she was warming up to you. "Want one?" She offered, holding out the pack at you.

+10 Sanity Gained
Katerina: +0.5

>What do you do, Pilot?
>Accept a Cigarette.
>Decline a Cigarette.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
>>
>>5128450
>>Accept a Cigarette.

>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
> So, you got any idea what an Emperor is like? They didn't tell me much.

> Try not to cough
>>
>>5128450
>Decline a Cigarette.
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
> So, you got any idea what an Emperor is like? They didn't tell me much.
One woman who I knew smokes and she's kinda a bitch.
>>
>>5128450
>Decline a Cigarette.
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
I hope we can work together well if we will be in the same team, coordination is fundamental in battle and in training. What you know of an emperor class ? Have you ever been out of of your base for training or other tests ? Where are you from ? Have you already talked with the others ?

>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
If we have to socialize, we should talk to other people as well. Thank her for the talk, and then go to the group who looks less hostile to us from their body postures and faces expressions.
>>
>>5128450
>Decline a Cigarette
Smoking is bad for you.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else - The two boys in the Green Berets
Let's try this introduction thing again, hopefully we'll leave less spaghetti fallout behind this time. Maybe we can make some bros here, who knows.

Maybe hit Katerina with a quiet 'It was nice to meet you' and an awkward smile as we excuse ourselves too. Just to see what happens.
>>
>>5128915
Bah, maybe I'm old, but every girl I knew in my twenties smoked, and only most of them were bitches.
>>
>>5128938
Support
>>
>>5128608
>>5128915
>>5128920
"Oh thank you, but I'd rather not. They aren't good for you." You replied politely, Katerina just rolled her eyes and set the pack down on her lap. Taking the initiative you continue asking questions. "Do you happen to have any ideas about what it's like piloting an Emperor Class? They didn't tell me much." Her eyes flicker over the other pilots again before coldly settling on you. Shifting forward she sat almost at the edge of her seat, closing the space between you until you could feel her breath on your face. Uncomfortably close.

Earning yourself a face full of smoke she spoke low in a whisper. "I heard it fries your mind. It burns out your eyes. Well the part of your brain that causes them to function. Same with taste, touch, hearing and even smell. It steals everything from you. But when you're in it… The whole world is within your hand. People say you can taste the sweat on the brows of your enemies, smell the piss in their pants as if it was your own and hear the rumbling bubbles of blood welling up from their throats. Emperor pilots stay in for so long their arms and legs atrophy becoming useless until they waste away. And when the body finally dies they fight on, their mind trapped and bound to the metal sarcophagus. Killing friend and foe alike in a blind rage until it is finally taken apart." Her words were heavy for once, the snide tone shifting to a more neutral one. "Well that's the rumours I've heard anyway." She takes a long pull, your eyes lock.

As your mind races, the idea of that happening to you. It was almost too much to bear. Katrina blows another puff of smoke right into your face. "if you could see your face. Not so happy to be one now huh?" You gave her a meek nod, thoughts of becoming numb lingering in your mind. Dying and living through an alien tool before dying again. You chalked it up to rumours, trying to reassure yourself. "Well I hope we can work well together in the future, coordination is fundamental in battle and training." Katerina sighed. "Aye, Aye Captain!" The girl retorted sarcastically, she even did a little salute. You smile, her lingering words making you feel unsure.
>>
File: imgur_com.png (734 KB, 564x749)
734 KB
734 KB PNG
>>5129452
Trying to ignore your scattered thoughts and apprehension about the Phobos you ask another question. "Have you ever been out of your base for training or other tests? This is my first time. I've never been to a city before, everything is so tall." Sliding back into her previous position she nodded. "Really? We had Joint exercises with the epsilon unit. We did a few war games, capture the flag. That kind of stuff. But it wasn't far, just out in the woods. Ep was stationed on the other end of our facility. We got to go home to our families every other six months. For a week or two if you were lucky." Her words were nonchalant, you hadn't had that option. You wouldn't know where to go if you even could. Keeping up the smile you grip the dinosaur for help. "I see, Where are you from?" Katerina took another deep pull, face becoming annoyed again.

More smoke escaping as she talked "Can you only ask questions or something? Well, where are you from?" You shrug, you couldn't remember the name. That snowy place. Your old home. "It was a village. In the mountains. But I can't remember it well, only when they came for me…" You weren't sure what else to say. Katerina sighed again. "I'm from Graznochek, my mum still lives there. Happy?" You weren't sure where that was, but added it to your mental note. Even with the risk of annoying the young woman further you ask another question. "Have you talked to any of the other Pilots already?" She looked surprised by that one. Her facade dropped long enough for you to notice. "Why would I talk to any of those plebs?" She asked incredulously.

Closing the distance once again, leaning in near enough that the cigarette between her lips almost burned you. Backing off a little you reply. "Well you are talking to me…" the girl let out a huff. "We aren't talking, you're annoying me. This is a one way convocation. But I have seen them for the last few hours. Those girls in the Crimson, that's Alpha Project. Those in the Navy Berets are from the Beta Project, the two boys in green are from gamma. Those six guys in Grey are Delta. And there is one idiot in black, he is apparently from Theta. He's been the only one to bother approaching someone from outside their project. I think he might be a retard." You might technically be the most socially adept person in the room. Only time would tell.

Katerina: +0.2

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to Katerina? Write in.
>>
>>5129454
>>What do you do, Pilot?
>It's not because I can't converse for shit that I'm not a genius in killing.
>Until we meet next time.
>Go to the green gamma boys. We are kinda socially inept so baby steps are good.
>>
>>5129454
>>What do you do, Pilot?
>Remind yourself of what you have learn and what you have said. Could be useful. Be now or in the future.
>....It doesn't speak well that we might not be of a superior standard than the others, why they didn't add similar training to the ones in Eta ? We where not good enough ? More thoughts about the complete different trainings can come later, we will think about that when we are alone. perhaps Mistress can inform us why.

>>What do you say? Write in.
>Thanks for answering Katerina, see you.
>Approach the Gamma Project candidates. Look at their body postures and faces expressions, it should reveal if they would be hostile or even lie to us. A proper soldier of course can control his emotions and body, and avoid to give away even this informations.
>>
>>5129454
>What do you do, Pilot?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else
>Until later, Katerina
>Approach the Greens, see if they're amiable to conversation. See if they're as socially stunted as we are
>>
>>5129454
>>What do you do, Pilot?
Excuse self and go meet Green

>>What do you say? Write in.
@ Katerina: Well then, thanks for humoring me. See you around, kitty-Kat.

@ Green Bros: Good day, boys. How long have you two been waiting in this delightful little lobby? Please tell me we get let out occasionally to use the firing range and go jogging or something...
>>
>>5129454
>It was awful talking to ya. Have a nice day and see you soon
>Talk to gamma boys
>>
>>5129467
Support
>>
>>5129733
>>5129454
+1, let's go make some bros.
>>
File: DaBoys.jpg (2.16 MB, 4096x4096)
2.16 MB
2.16 MB JPG
>>5129467
>>5129499
>>5129733
>>5129885
>>5129901
>>5130127
>>5130056
With Katerina's assessment of the other pilots laid bare you gave them all another glance. You knew you should probably talk to them. At least start the foundations of a working relationship. Another plume of smoke was blown into your face. The girl chortled softly with rude satisfaction, her eyes still sharp. Tapping her ash onto the ground without any shame.
Standing you made sure to be looking down on her as you speak. Textbook social supremacy. "Well then, thanks for humoring me and answering all my questions. It was just awful talking to ya, have a nice day. I'll be seeing you later Kitty-kat." The girl watches you stand, furious glare returning as her lips twisted into a smirk before souring. She spoke venom. "I've filled my monthly quota for tard wrangling, so you'll have to bother someone else. Oh and by the way Morty, do the world a favor and leave the planet." As you turned she fanned her hand at you, shooing you away as if there was a smell left lingering by your presence.

You felt a little taller after your exchange retorts. You definitely hit her with a zinger. The other girls eyed you again, but you ignored them and focused on the two gamma boys. They were sitting further apart now, still throwing cards at each other. Now that they had you focus you could tell one was using a red deck and the other a blue one. Most of the cards were going astray as about two meters separated them. But occasionally one would hit the other. One was blonde and the other had brown hair, they were tall and both clearly muscular. You realized the girls might have been looking at them instead of you. Advancing you were unsure of who to directly address so spoke loud enough that they both assumed you were talking to them. "Hello the-." The blonde one interrupted you, talking over your rather meek introduction. "Didn't you get the memo Theta kid? Can't you see we are still in the divided and untrustworthy phase?" He spoke in a strange accent before throwing another card at the brown haired pilot. It missed.

Up close you could see the design of their pin. A coiled snake, fangs bared and tongue in the shape of the gamma symbol. "I'm Morti-." You start again when the other gamma interrupts you. "So did she tell you anyway?" Throwing his own card. He also missed. "Tell me what?" You answered a little confused by the laid-back attitude. Raising an eyebrow he eyes you somewhat suspiciously. You were almost at a loss for words. "Brother. Her bra size. What did she say?" A little stunned, you paused before replying. Your hope for normalcy diminishes slightly. "Oh she didn't say.'' The card throwing ceased as the two boys leaned forwards. "Looks like double A right?" All three of you turned, Katerina was back to reading her book. Or at least pretending to, because she quickly raises her middle finger as the others continue talking.
>>
>>5130659
You were unsure if they were double A. "No way Brother, A or B. They aren't that small." The blonde one looks again, voice sounding uncertain as he spoke "I dunno. They are pretty small." The brown haired gamma stares you in the eyes, his voice stern. "How'd they look up close Theta kid?" You shrugged, you hadn't really planned to discuss the topic. And just thinking about her breasts made you feel embarrassed. "They looked pretty small." Brown gamma nodded thoughtfully as the blonde one spoke up again. Cutting in his own opinion with a rather thoughtful tone. "Shape is important too you know, not just size." About half the decks of cards were littered around the floor. "Yeah for real" the other gamma answered.

You decided to skip the introduction and settle on a question. "How long ha-." Another card flicks between them as the blonde one speaks again.
"What about those milk sacks, god damn"
Tilting his head in the direction of the alpha girls. One of them was stretching, her woolen sweater doing little to hide her large chest. "Yeah for real." The brown haired one answers. The pair fall into another conversation. "Right? Those alpha girls, there just aren't enough of them to go around." The blonde pilot said in a disappointed tone, you could notice the uneven number of possible couples. Eight girls to the nine boys. "You'll have to keep the rude one Theta kid." The brown smirked. "Yeah for real" the blonde one added, throwing in his two cents in the matter before continuing. "We'll fight to the death over the rest. I'm pretty sure I could take on three of those delta runts."

You hesitated for a second, contemplating why you would even have to be stuck with the rude one. "Easily." The other supported. "That lit-." Interrupting you spoke loud enough that the other groups might even hear. "Please tell me we get let out occasionally to use the firing range and go jogging or something…" The two boys blinked and turned, not expecting you to interrupt their discussion. A card hits you. "Theta kid, the firing range is right here." Reflectively you caught the card before it fell to the ground. "Yeah for real" Another card hits you. You catch it deftly. This didn't seem to be working out how you had intended. Conveniently you heard Katerina sniker in the background.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST.
>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
>>
>>5130662
>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST.
>>
>>5130662
>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST.
>Well then throwing range instead of firing range it is.
>>
>>5130659
>"Brother. Her bra size. What did she say?"
>The card throwing ceased as the two boys leaned forwards. "Looks like double A right?"
I am already certain we made a fantastic descision meeting with these two. The Emperor Pilot and his two Prince/Knight bros.

>>5130662
>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST.
Give 'em the smirk too, we were about to beat the all time high score back at base. Flicking some cards should be easy peasy compared to that.
>>
>>5130662

>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST

ASSERT DOMINANCE
>>
>>5130662
>>Throw the cards back. SKILL TEST.
>>
>>5130670
>>5130674
>>5130676
>>5130682
>>5130686
You were at the firing range huh. At this distance. They didn't stand a chance, the madmen shouldn't have armed you. Two cards was more than enough, one for each pilot would do nicely.

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+6 (Bonus +3 from close range.)
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 2 + 6 = 19 (3d6 + 6)

>>5130689
CHECK EM
>>
Rolled 1, 1, 2 + 6 = 10 (3d6 + 6)

>>5130689
>>5130690
First roll crit success. They didn't stand a chance.
>>
Rolled 2, 1, 2 + 6 = 11 (3d6 + 6)

>>5130689
>>
>>5130690
Based
>>
>>5130690
DOUBLE KILL!
>>
File: Polish_20220121_162122487.jpg (506 KB, 4096x4096)
506 KB
506 KB JPG
>>5130690
>>5130692
>>5130700
19, 10, 11
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Skill Gained[/b

They were relying on their wrists too much. A good throw starts up in the shoulder and follows through. You would show them how. Both gamma pilots had their hands cocked back, ready to throw again. You were cool as a cucumber, ice cold baby. They had you at a disadvantage but that was it. Your eyes tracked between their own. Death was in the air. You could smell it. Everyone could. A sudden build up in tension that hadn't been there before. None of you dared to blink. That was their mistake, while they froze you moved. Fluidly and perfectly, both arms extending and flexing in unison. You were far from close to them, but the range really wouldn't have made a difference.

The cards were free with such force you almost didn't see them. Two arrows, one red and one blue. Both carved through the air, such a balance of force keeping them from bowing and flying off course. Cutting the air both struck in unison. Double kill. A single loud slap resounding out. It was a pair of brilliant throws. Blonde got struck on the bridge of his nose, dropping his own cards in surprise and flinching away from you. The auburn one had just started to say something when it hit him in the forehead, instead he stammered loudly. The whole room was silent after the execution, that was until Katerina broke the silence by bursting into laughter. A few of the alpha girls who had seen joined in. A couple others gave you wary glances after missing the show. The two boys reeled back in their chairs, arms wide and feigning death. "Gunned down in the prime of my life." The blonde declared. "Brutal." Was all the brown haired boy could muster.

Katerina: +0.2
>>
>>5130755
You let out your breath, only now noticing you had been holding it. Your dominance had been asserted, two bold red marks showing your skill of accuracy. Smirking, you knew that if you were gonna talk to them, now was the time. "Welcome to the firing range boys. I'm Mortimer, but everyone just calls me Morty. What are the names of these dead men?" The pair kept up the corpse act, speaking as their eyes glazed over. "Oh sweet poor Alexander was such a good boy, who would end him in such a foul and dubious manner? Some fiend called Morty." The blonde one spoke in a poorly done old woman's voice, before laughing and sitting up. "Oh Aye, that same damn fella did away with that handsome and well hung young stallion Anthony. What a beast!" The brown haired boy bemoaned in his own aged accent sitting up after the eulogy finished. Both now watching you with equal helpings of awe and interest. "Well then Morty, why don't you have a seat?" Alexander said while cleaning up the mess of cards around him. Anthony did the same. "Yeah for real." You move to pull a seat over, relieved greatly by the introductions. Getting comfortable you lean in, the other pilots doing the same.

Alexander: +2
Anthony: +2

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in

Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown: Prize of the Theta Project.

Current Stats:
Mind: 10
Body: 20
Skill: 31
Smarts: 10
Sanity: 140

Social Standing:
Katerina: 0.9
Alexander: 2.0
Anthony: 2.0

Fucked up the formating on that last post.
>>
>>5130764
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
I don't really have any idea as to what to talk about.
>>
>>5130764
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write

Ask what they specialize in, clearly ours is shooting
>>
>>5130764
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in

I dunno, ask them about the standard stuff like "How was the Gamma project" and something
>>
>>5130764
>>What do you do, Pilot?
Enjoy a small victory

>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
"So Anthony and Alexander.... are you brothers ? Both of you have the back for the other it seems."
Then ask about Gamma project, how it was, their tests and training. We need to know our battle brothers, and what they can do.
>>
>>5130860
>>5130764
This is good, supporting.
>>
>>5130860
support
>>
>>5130836
>>5130791
Combination of these two
>>
File: The Art Showcase.png (141 KB, 540x540)
141 KB
141 KB PNG
>>5130791
>>5130836
>>5130843
>>5130860
Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 1 - Casual Engagement.
https://voca.ro/1gPw4phIMVVO

It was time to talk shop. While you had to rough 'em up a bit the Gamma boys seem to be humouring your interest in conversation. It was a clean victory, so you savour it. "So Anthony and Alexander.... are you brothers? Both of you have the back for the other it seems." The pair laugh, heads thrown back in frightening similarity. Besides the colour of their hair they were both as you assume, handsome young men. Their faces were very symmetrical after all. Alexander gave the other pilot a close inspection. "Is it that easy to tell?" You nod. Anthony spoke next. "For real? We have the same father, different mothers if you couldn't tell. Alex is older than me by a week." Your good intuition made you feel even better. "How was Gamma? Training wise, I heard Eta was pretty tough." Your small trio crept closer, voices dropping low.

It was second nature to be secretive, the training and conditioning made you all that way. Any one who hadn't undergone such training would stand out like a sore thumb. "It was pretty tough I guess.. we did a lot of PT, equipment and neural load training. Some very brief interference runs and mostly conditioning and a lot of weapons training. Rest of the unit dropped out mainly because of PT, I heard they were dropping into lower selection groups." Tony replied. The interior ministry really did make some strange weapons, pilots were the strangest ones of all. "We are Prince prospects by the way... I know, you can bask in our glory as much as you'd like." Holding his hands out Anthony looked up to the heavens and basked on the glory of the lights above.

Boy were they in for a surprise. "So no one died in your group?" The Two boys swooped in the barrier back up, both mouths dropping open."Kids died in Theta? What the fuck Morty." Alex whispered. "By the Empress, what the fuck Morty." Tony added. You raise your hands in defense, they had a worse reaction than you did. "I didn't kill anyone… but I don't think so. Everyone dropped out during meshed interference and other neural trials. I was alone for the last two years." The two pilots digested the words, eyes still on you. "How did you even manage to survive that? We had the entire unit until graduation. Then they were just dropped into other units and we ended up here." You weren't sure how to answer, the silence dragging on. The dino in your pocket called out for your hand. But you refrained. "What are your prospects?" Alex asked, Tony waited on the edge of his seat. "Me and Kat are Emperor Class candidates." Their unmoving faces suggest they had come to that conclusion before asking.
>>
>>5131107
The whole children might have died thing may have tipped them off to your rather harsh training. "Kat huh? So you two are pretty close already?" Tony asked with a smile, smashing the awkward air that had formed. You rolled your eyes. "So you like small Morty? Nice handful huh? A Mouthful huh?" Alex added, you blush. Face escaping to your hands as the pair threw their heads back in unison and roared like apes.

Alexander: +5
Anthony: +5

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone.
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
>>
>>5131111
> Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in

> Is she close to anyone? Talking to her was like jogging through a minefield. I mean, a pretty one, but still.
>>
>>5131111
Nice quads

>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
"We where close when we talked, but it s not enough for now"
"I don't mind, they can have their qualities"
"Now did everyone really keep for themselves here before i arrived ? So far beside me and that other guy, i haven t see another candidate talk with the others. Why ? Both of you are quite social and nice to talk with so i am surprised."
"Beside knowing the ones we will fight with is, simply, fundamental for us soldiers. Remember that."
>>
>>5131214
+1
>>
>>5131214
+1
>>
>>5131214
>>5131175
+1 to both
>>
>>5131638
Changing to
>>5131175
>>5131214
+1 to both.
>>
>>5131107
Nice Voca.ro
Is it of your own making or is it part of a playlist?
>>
>>5131175
>>5131214
>>5131380
>>5131638
>>5131696
Through your hands you reply, the words helping to cool your hot cheeks. "Is she close to anyone? Talking to her was like jogging through a minefield. I mean, a pretty one, but still." The pair took the words and howled further. Through your fingers you could make out heads turning to see the commotion. You had tried to push them off the idea, but the boys seem to enjoy holding it over you. Tony was busy making kissy faces and would set Alex off further each time. Hitting them with another retort you dropped your hands, face finally settling down. "We were close when we talked, but that's enough for now… Physically close, nothing strange." You said, reiterating for the pilots. "Anyway, I don't mind. All sizes can have their qualities."

The boys accepted your sage wisdom, nodding enthusiastically. "For real." They mumbled in near unison. "Now. Did everyone here really keep to themselves before I arrived? So far beside me and that other guy, I haven't seen another candidate talk with the others. Why? Both of you are quite social and nice to talk with so I am surprised." Shuffling his deck of cards Alex spoke first. "Damn Morty, you know how to soften a girl up. We are both very nice." Tony joined in. "Damn I guess I am pretty nice." You worried you'd get nowhere with the pair, but they slinked closer in and spoke low. "We have only been here a few hours, when we did arrive Alpha and Delta were chatting. So we kept our distance, no one made an effort to say anything." Tony spoke next "As the other candidates arrived everyone just stayed in their own separate groups. New places and lack of comfort zones would be my guess, why waste the time getting to know someone you might never see again." You wondered how many of the other Pilots even carried a momento.
>>
>>5131964

Alex nods agreeing with his brother. "I wasn't gonna break the ice. Gamma, Eta and Beta. We are small compared to them" you found the issue strange, but you could understand the mindset. You hadn't seen anyone else in two years, so your hunger for social activity. No matter the quality would be more than theirs. You reply, your own thoughts trying to sway them. "Well besides knowing the Pilots we have a high chance of fighting alongside. Simply, communication is fundamental for us soldiers. Remember that." The words came out stern, like a teacher addressing his rapscallion pupils. You expect respectful eyes, but instead found the pair woefully unimpressed by the admonishing. Tony raised an eyebrow. "Oh? well go on then. We'll sit here. Go talk to the Alpha girls, see how it plays out? If you need help give us a sign and we'll rush over and beat them up for you." Alex smiled. "Yeah, if it's as easy as you say. Show us." The pair of devil's grinned, turning to examine your next task. The girls were chatting amongst themselves. A cold chill dances down your spine.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Introduce yourself to Alpha?
>Excuse yourself and sit alone?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in

>>5131712
Thanks Anon, I made it. Since I'm no drawfag to give the quest a bit more depth I'll try my best to make some tracks for situations and important moments.
>>
>>5131107
>>5131966

It s a nice track. Keeping it around for the quest. In regard to images well the ones you already use are still quite nice.
If the quest keeps going, you should attract one or more of them i am sure of that. Descriptions help them if one wants to try something be a phobos, a character or anythigne else.

>"If it s easy as you say Show us."
My my my, i need to think about this one
>>
>>5131966
>What do you do, Pilot?
Another test, Another challenge ? We can take it, or learn from it if it doesn't go as well. This isn't real combat or battle after all.

>Talk to the Gamma boys? Write in
"I can't guarantee a success, but if i was able to talk with her and the two of you without getting in a fight i think have some chances. Despite the clear disadvantage of numbers i face at the moment."
"If nothing else we can all learn something from it, some ice can't be broken no matter how many times you try and certain people can't be tusted by us. For the moment don't act, look at what the others do. If they do something violent, feel free to join."
"... maybe i will tell you their sizes later"

then
>Introduce yourself to Alpha?
Calm and present ourselves. We look, and are a soldier.

//
Interesting so they talked with each other. Now why the military would put us all in this room like this though ? They are for sure observing what is happening. The lives of this candidates are all about training and tests after all.
>>
>>5132004
+1
Would like to add.
>"Don't you two guys want to join me in front of the firing squad? It will make it more managable."
>>
>>5132004
>>5132123
+1
>>
>>5132004
>>5132123
>>5132455
All your life that you could remember was a test. One after another. Success after success. You wouldn't stop now. You can take it, even if you fail, you will learn from it. Only losers stay down, you have struggled through worse. It isn't like they were going to shoot you for being uncharismatic. Taking a deep breath you addressed the duo. "Don't you two guys want to join me in front of the firing squad? It will make it more manageable." The pair of bastards laugh, almost falling into each others arms. "No thank you my good sir!" Alex said, declining the offer as Tony shook his head vigorously. Letting out a huff you were resigned to your fate. "I can't guarantee a success, however if i was able to talk with her and the two of you without getting in a fight I think I have a pretty good chance. Despite the clear disadvantage of numbers I face at the moment."

Tony hummed in thought, watching the girls as if he was weighing your chances of dying of embarrassment. "If nothing else we can all learn something from it, some ice can't be broken no matter how many times you try and certain people can't be trusted by us. It would be good to gauge their reactions to even friendly conversation. But for the moment don't act, look at what the others do. If they do something violent, feel free to join..." You ordered commandingly, "... maybe i will tell you their sizes later." You tacked on quietly after, ensuring only the three of you would hear the low low words. The fools grinned, and before you knew it they were both elbowing you like mad men. "Go on Champ!" "Go get them, tiger!" Being prodded from your seat the advancement began.

All of Alpha turns to watch you approach, the heavy artillery called in. Damn. You can't remember ever being in front of so many girls your own age. You were used to barely talking to adult women, you felt a little out of your depth. None glared at you, none giggled. They all watched you expectantly as you got closer, a single chair sat across from the sofas they lounged on. It hadn't been there when you first walked passed. A cold sweat ran down your neck, why was there a chair now? They watch you like hawks, faces stoic and giving nothing away. Charging through the artillery you made it to the chair. Right up to the damn dugout without saying any words. You wouldn't sit. Not yet, you needed the power position against so many clearly reserved young women. Resting a hand on the back of the chair you took up an almost inspiring pose. Like a general of antiquity.
>>
File: Yiva-Castilla-Sophia.jpg (2.71 MB, 4096x4096)
2.71 MB
2.71 MB JPG
>>5132501
Up close you got a clear look at their crimson berets, the pin is an Alpha symbol clutched within the claws of a majestic hawk in mid flight. Taking it slow, you put on a polite tone. "Howdy everyone, I am Corporal Mortimer. I'm the Theta Candidate, it's very nice to meet all of you. I hope we can get along well and cooperate like true comrades in arms... Would you mind if I sit?" You gestured to the seat. The five girls were spread across two sofas. Three on the right and two to your left. The girl in the middle of the trio spoke up first, the others looking to her as if for a judgement. You knew at that moment that she was in charge. Pinched scars crawled down her brow through her eye and onto her cheek.

The glassy orb made you even more nervous, her platinum hair long and kept in a reserved style. "It is nice to meet you too, Corporal Mortimer. I am Sergeant Castilla, Alpha unit candidate. You're a lot politer than the behavior of the other units suggested, but we haven't exchanged more than glances with them. So you may sit." You nodded your thanks, a bead of sweat racing down your neck as she mentioned the other units. Seeing the large breast from the corner of your eye. Fighting yourself to not even remotely look toward them, focusing entirely on Castilla. She didn't falter under your gaze, you thought she might even be enjoying your reserved and formal attention. "Well then where are my manners? To my left, is Specialist Yiva. Another Alpha candidate." You gave the girl a respectful nod, not wanting to interrupt the sergeant by saying anything.

Yiva has dark mahogany hair, a big fringe covering her forehead as the rest flowed down to her shoulder. Freckles dance across her nose and cheeks, the red and white striped sweater she was wearing stretched to contain her large chest. You quickly looked to the next girl. "and on my right we have Specialist Sophia, Alpha candidate." She gave you a small wave, her hair golden brown. Like the scales of some mythical dragon, an earthy yet shiny tone. You swore you could feel her clear blue eyes staring into your soul. Thankful Castilla continues her introductions, you follow her hand and watch the remaining pilots. "On the second couch we have, on your left is Specialist Lucy and to her right is your fellow Corporal Brigitta. That is all of Alpha Unit, so quite a few substantially more than Theta managed to produce." Her tone hawty and superior, a thin smile lining her lips.
>>
File: Lucy-Brigitta.jpg (3.77 MB, 4096x4096)
3.77 MB
3.77 MB JPG
>>5132506
Lucy had dark hair that matched Kat's own, her face soft and inoffensive. You admit they were all pretty cute. Kahva was keeping up the deal. She had pale blue eyes, eyes that you noticed flicker passed you more than once towards the gamma boys. Brigitta had long light blonde hair behind both her large ears, her face was small and delicate, big green eyes watching you intently. The dark bags around them stood out against her deathly pale flesh. Delivering all the nod you sat there, they hadn't attacked you yet. But you weren't sure what to do. The girls all watch you, Castilla crossed her arms expectantly. Feeling yourself suddenly under a lot of scrutiny and pressure you look over your shoulder for any escape. The boys shoot you a pair of thumbs up.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Alpha girls? Write in
>>
>>5132511
>I was the only one, because Theta was lead by a bitch and felt like a bitch. The 2 last years I spend on my own.
>What are your specialities. We're hopefully gonna work togheter in the future. Mine is Weapons and physical aspects? Yours?
>What do you think about the Gamma boys?
>>
>>5132554
Support
They seem okay
>>
>>5132584
Actually i need to think about it
>>
>>5132511
>So, any idea what Phobos were you all trained for? The room tally so far sits at two Emperor-class attempts, and two Princes.
>Either way, I look forwards to working with you all, assuming everyone sticks around
Just bouncing around trying to compare training styles, see what everyone else has been in for. And of course, trying to knock the social brain cells together after a few years of isolation.
>>
>>5132511
>What do you do, Pilot?
Concentrate on the leader for the moment. The others seem to respect her fully.

>What do you say? Write in
"I am glad to meet all of you."
"Now that we are done with introductions
Sergeant, to answer to your statement, it all depends what was the final objective of each project. Perhaps Alpha wanted the largest amounts of candidates to be made, and I can assure you Theta didn't need that has an objective at all. Of course it would have been useful, but they didn't seem to care after at least getting a result."
"But let's talk of more substantial things, how was Alpha ? Did you remain only in your base or where you able to go in other facilities as well ? Is any of you from the capital ?"
>>
>>5132624
This. +1
>>5132554
Definitely not this what the fuck?
>>
>>5132722
Sorry. Have autism. Am even more socially inept then our boy morty.
>>
>>5132777
can happen, just remember that this facility is owned by the military and they are likely watching us. In regard to the mistress better to not make her angry.

>>5132722
>>5132777
also nice trips and dubs
>>
>>5132511
>>5132624
This is good, +1

>>5132777
I can believe that, hope you get better in the future.
>>
>>5132624
I can support this.
>>
>>5132890
let's hope triple 7 will bring me luck during the exams.
Also meant to write more socially inept THAN our boy morty.
>>
>>5132624
support
>>
>>5132624
>>5132638
Almost stuttering you began to put out words for the unit of girls to digest. The dinosaur in your pocket, surely proud. "I am glad to meet you all, it's a pleasure. Hopefully we can work well together in the future, that is assuming we are all still here after the linking process…" Castilla watches you calmly, despite you trying to avoid her eye she keeps looking into your own. With a soft clap, one conveying energy and excitement you continue. "But now that we are done with introductions, how about we get to know each other a little better huh?" The crowd of girls didn't seem too interested, but you still had Castilla's attention and none attempted to have their own discussion or interrupt you.

It was a breath of fresh air. "So, any idea what Phobos units you will all be linking with? From my own investigation the current room rally so far sits at two Emperor-class prospects and two Prince-class." Castilla's eye flutters at the mention of an Emperor class. Flicking over the other units you had already talked to. "I see. Well all of my Specialists will be attempting the link with Knight-class Phobos units. Brigitta and I shall be Prince-class prospects. Who are the Emperor-class pilots, this is all news to me." She turned to the others, gesturing for you to point out whom. The other girls scooted forward, also trying to get a look. You notice their eyes and faces not so reserved at the revelation.

Lucy and Brigitta share a whisper. But you couldn't make anything out. "It seems like everyone has been eager to stay silent. The Eta candidate Katerina is one and I am the other." You said flatly, looking at the rude girl as she continued to read. She didn't flick you off, so she was probably really reading. The heads pivoted on a swivel, Callista opening and closing her mouth a few times before any words actually escaped. You interrupted her before she could say anything. "Sergeant, to respond to your statement from earlier. A project's success rate seems to depend on what was the final objective. Perhaps Alpha wanted the largest numbers of pilot candidates to be made, by lowering the standard of requirement. And I can assure you Theta and Eta did not. Of course, both projects seem to be useful, but I'm sure the results are yet to be tallied." The pilot ran a hand through her silver hair, long fingers cutting groves through the well tended mane.
>>
>>5133798
Her lone eye burning a hole into you. You ignored the sudden tension and continued. "But let's talk of more substantial things, how was Alpha? Did you remain only on your base or were you able to go to other facilities?" Without giving Castilla a break you continue the assault. But she stood her ground, without a moment to slip up she replied intently. "Alpha was far from an ordeal, quite a few were dropped into lower selection groups. Or down right into regular infantry, but we all passed with top Synchronization rates. Besides exercise and weapons training we underwent a mix of Lo-Freq and tapered interference. Not the most intense neural loads, but we were put to the test. And yes, we underwent joint exercises and training with a few ministry police units. Mainly recon prep, map reading and that sort of team building exercises. We get weekends off every third week in a month, we were allowed to go home to see family… How about you Corporal?" You knew your turn to give an answer would come, so you held nothing back.

Training and your own tests, they didn't speak, but you could tell they hadn't expected the intense treatment. "You're all pretty lucky, I've spent the last two years pretty much alone, so excuse me if I'm a little bit rusty when it comes to social interaction. But wait till you see me in a shootout." Castilla laughs, it's a shrill but deep thing. Natural, unrestrained and pretty adorable. Her eye seemed to have softened, the girls clearly noticed the slip in tension. Formality was eroding. "Oh, and where do you all come from?" You wondered, it wasn't like you'd know any of the places. But hey, it couldn't hurt to know.

Another voice spoke up, a soft and almost delicate sound. A whispered rasp weighed the tone down, looking over you saw the voice belonged to Brigitta. "Callista and Yiva are both from Little Vurgandy, Lucy is from Halii in the east. Sophia is from Graznochek. And lil' old me grew up in the mountains. What about you?" You had dreaded this question, no one had answered the way you would. They all knew, they all had someplace to call home. You had nothing but the cold. "I can't remember it's name, it was so long ago... All I remember is the snow and the stone houses. But it was all just moments before the ministry got me." You avoided their eyes as you explained, none of them said anything. You noticed Brigitta lean toward you, but thankfully someone stopped her. You weren't going to cry, but the day was really getting to you. Just yesterday you were truly alone. And now. Now you were drowning in people to befriend. People just like you, or well… close enough.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Alpha girls? Write in
>>
>>5133800
>What do you do, Pilot?
Try to regain the stoic face
>What do you say? Write in
So don't be jealous about us emperor prospects. We are pretty lonely.
What do you think about the other groups?
Anyone up for some pool? I can invite the Gamma boys.
>>
>>5134149
+1 Can't think of anything better.
>>
>>5134149
>So don't be jealous about us emperor prospects. We are pretty lonely.
Dude why so much angst? Asking about other groups is fine. I would prefer if we did private introduction with all of the groups first then did some group activity.

>>5133800
>Talk to the Alpha girls? Write in
>Was Alpha all girls group?
>Ask about their opinions of other groups.
>Ask about their project commander.
Something that we probably should ask in previews conversations.

After that we should move to
>Approach the group playing cards?
after that group we should target group at game tables and have ultimate game between representative of all of the groups
>>
>>5134178
Yeah pretty fair.
Gonna drop the
So don't be jealous about us emperor prospects. We are pretty lonely. in :
>>5134149
Too much angst indeed.
I wanted to start that group activity, before going to the last group, so that our boys have a head start.
>>
>>5133800
>What do you do, Pilot?
Good start, Mortimer. Perhaps we showed some weakness for our home, but overall this is a good social success. The statement of their leader has been flipped around, much the same for anything else said. Not a 100% degree of success, but we aren't made for social interactions. The memory of home cannot be taken away, so no fear.

>What do you say? Write in
>How is working with other military units of the ministry ? What s the deal with the police since they picked them for work with Alpha candidates ?
>I am sorry but, you said that a few were dropped in lower groups or in the army ? I have never seen that practiced, either one is dedicated to become an acceptable example of candidate, or it wasn't worthed the resources and time invested for his training. Are you allowed to see your old companions if you wish ? Or there is a restriction ?
>Ah interesting, that s a lot of free time. It reminds me more of what the army soldier or the personell back at my project facility had. Are your families proud of you and your results ?
>>
>>5134178
+1 to this. Keep doing the rounds of the groups

And for gods sake don’t talk about family, or a home that you don’t have. Not going to help your mental state reflecting on things you didn’t, and couldn’t have
>>
File: Castilla.jpg (60 KB, 751x1063)
60 KB
60 KB JPG
>>5134149
>>5134178
>>5134181
>>5134276
You force the feelings away, pinning them down and smothering them. Just as you would with HI frequency interference and other mentally draining situations. Even without being in a Phobos your training was paying off, coldly stoic you returned your attention to the girls. Giving them a thin reassuring smile and keep up the talking. "So, was Alpha an entirely girls group?" You had to wonder. What were the chances only girls would pass? Another new voice spoke up, harsher and deeper than the others, but still clearly feminine.

Yiva had taken the reins, Castilla seemed content to let her subordinates talk with you. "Pretty much, same with Delta. We were all on the same compound, the boys had a lower facility but we would see them pretty often. But both separate units were gender divided." You nodded, it wasn't that strange. Every unit was clearly free to run their own curriculum. "What about Theta?" she added, you hadn't expected a question but replied gladly. The numb barrier you erected to kill your emotions thinning and letting some excitement through. "We were a mixed unit, until it was just me I guess. How are the lads from Delta? What's your thoughts on the other units so far?" Castilla spoke this time, but you notice she cut off a few of the girls.

Clearly they all had an opinion. "Delta training matched our own almost equally, they are very proud of what they have achieved. However they can border on unapologetic arrogance, you see… we had an arrangement or sorts. A bet to see what unit would produce the most pilots. I'm sure you have noticed, there is one more delta than alpha. I'm sure you can imagine how they took the victory." You nodded, probably badly. "They're a bunch of assholes." Brigitta explained bluntly. "Yeah." A few of the girls said in affirmation. "That is one way to describe them" Castilla said matter of factly.
>>
>>5134330
You gave the boys a glance, they were playing pool while the rest watched and chatted. "The other units, well you are our only interaction with any of them. So I'd say Theta seems to have produced quite the inquisitive and respectful pilot and an Emperor class prospect at that too. But first impressions can be deceiving, so you are still on probation. Eta seems to be quite a rough individual, but I'm sure that is a product of the rigors of her training. Since she is also a Emperor class prospect she must have some skill. Those two from gamma, you haven't told us much. But two Princes. That speaks volumes and I should know, me and Brigitta are both fellows of the same class. The Beta subjects have pretty much stuck together and haven't interacted with anyone. So they are still up in the air." Castilla lists off, her one eye not missing much. "I see, thank you for sharing. I'll keep that in mind when I get around to introducing myself. What about your Project commander? My Mistress was distant but resolute to shape me into the best pilot I can be." The group all gave each other sidelong looks at that one.

No one seems to want to talk about the topic. Castilla addressed the question. "I wouldn't call her our Mistress… but Major Morozov was busy commanding us and Delta." The wording may have been strange, no one else seemed to refer to their commanding officer as mistress. But they had answered. "How was working with other military units of the ministry? What's the deal with the ministry police? Theta never had any mixed exercises, especially not with interior troops." The girls seem to hesitate again, Castilla didn't. It was clear why she led them. "Internal consistency I'm sure, our compound shared exercise time tables with the ministry divisions. So it was only natural to just do joint exercises, help develop inter-unit cooperation skill I'm sure." The answer made sense, but you could tell she was holding back slithers of the truth.

The ministry was secretive, there was a reason they had kept you locked up by yourself for so long. Alpha and Delta's commander clearly had close ties, enough to get them in tangled with ministry operations. More than all of you were already. You nodded your understanding, but a tension had slipped into the air. Castilla single eye reading you, or trying to. You sink further into the deep, your facade impenetrable. "I am sorry but, you said that a few candidates were dropped into lower selection groups or down directly into the army? I have never seen that practiced, but I'm am unsure what happened to my other Theta candidates. Wouldn't it be a waste of resources?" You were in a stand off now, chipping away.
>>
>>5134333
The Gamma unit did drop there candidates into lower selection groups. But directly down into the basic army, they had been chosen for a Phobos project. You doubted the ministry would just pass them off and into the infantry of all places. The Sergeant opened her mouth to speak but then caught herself. The other girls were busting themselves looking else where, the tension could be cut with a knife. You decided to press further while she was on the back foot. "Are you allowed to see your old companions if you wish? Or is there some restrictions?" Castilla quickly collected herself and answered smoothly. "Of course, However our leave is for home specifically, we have to get permission to travel. So unless they are close it would probably take a while to get in touch. Many of the lower projects are spread across the empire. But I still write to those I was close with, do you not?" That last questions a stab in the ribs, a thin lance piercing you shield.

The hole was quickly filled in, but it had made it through. You smile, while dying inside. "Unfortunately I do not." She nodded her understanding, eye cold and deadly. The glassy orb even joining in. You looked away and break the tension." Very interesting! Alpha seems like it had a lot of free time. It reminds me more of what the facility staff and guards back at Theta had. I always has some schedule to race after... Are your families proud of your results?" You asked the whole group, hoping to escape formality, Castilla kept up the overbearing posture. But a voice broke out, it was Brigitta. "My family was pretty excited, but more by the pay increase than the actual prospect of me piloting a warmachine." Wait. They were getting paid? You wanted to ask, but Brigitta had set them all off.

Next was Lucy, blushing a little she spoke chuckling as she did. "My mother was telling everyone in the market while selling my father's furniture and each customer she would serande. 'My daughter is a Phobos Pilot you know! She carries the honor of Halii on her shoulders!' it was awful. I just wanted to relax. I got about six proposals." The other girls laugh, Sophia starts talking next. "My family held a massive ball, invited half the damn dukes in the city. It was so gawdy, I just wanted to be out shooting. The swarmy bastards wouldn't leave me alone." The girls all spoke platitudes, along with a hum of cheeky remarks.
>>
>>5134338
Yiva was next cutting in her own opinion. "Me and Cass had to put up with the damn harvest, if you heard my old man. 'Pilot huh? Well just because you bring in some money now don't start to think you rule the roost. Those Takare aren't going to pick themselves. Low and behold I'm lugging a sack home and who do I spot doing the same. Cass had gotten the same damn hardy speech about responsibility and hardwork." She elbowed the one eyed girl, the group seemingly forgetting you existed. The entire group had fallen into happy discussion as the talk lulled you offered a proposition. "Anyone up for a game of pool? Looks like the delta boys left a table, I'll grab gamma and we can have a boys vs girls match?" A few seemed excited by the idea, especially Lucy, but the stone wall that was Castilla barely budged. "Maybe later, when the remaining units have arrived." None spoke out against the decision, even those clearly disappointed.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Talk to the Alpha girls? Write in
>>
>>5134341
>It's been nice talking to you all.
>Pass the boys and inform them on the prospect of pool, but that they will have to measure the sizes themselves.
>Go to the last group
>>
>>5134359
Supportan
>>
>>5134341
>Thank Alpha girls for talk and a chair.
>Approach the group playing cards?
>>
>>5134359
Two groups remain. Beta are playing cards and Delta are playing pool.

Update will still be a few hours away for caught up at work.
>>
>>5134359
support

to the group playing cards !
>>
>>5134616
Cards group it is then.
>>
>>5134359
>>5134363
>>5134782
>>5134797
You give the entire unit a genuine smile, despite a few close calls the exchange had definitely been friendly. You were a little surprised none of them were out socializing, but it seems as though Cass wants a close rein on them until all the competition has arrived. Happily you got ready to move on. "It has been lovely talking to you all, thank you for humouring my rather dull questions. And of course thanks for the chair. I'll see you all later." The group gave you small waves as Castilla spoke for them all. "You're welcome Mortimer, we had quite a wonderful conversation. I'm already looking forward to our next chat." Returning the wave you left the group, stepping lightly as you walked in the clouds all the way back to the gamma boys.

Castilla: +1
Yiva: +2
Sophia: +2
Lucy: +2
Brigitta: +3

The two pilots couldn't hold back their impressed grins, like greedy dogs demanding information. You shared what the Alpha unit had shared, keeping your thoughts and assumptions to yourself for the moment being. Alex and Tony never found any issues so you didn't bring up your own. Of course the topic of rather accurate measurements came up, however you weren't as well versed as them. Suggesting they do their own investigation. The two fiends yip and yaw, damning you for your wickedness.

But you beat the lanky monsters away with the prospect of a showcase or even a mixed game of pool with the girls. Once you had finished making your introductions that was. Content with the idea they returned to their game of throwing cards at one another. Leaving you with the Beta Unit, they were also playing cards. Albeit correctly. With a spring in the step you didn't even have a thought of worry as you strode closer. Riding the high while you could. The trio sat around a coffee table, wooden edged with a clear glass pane in the middle. A boy with glasses and two girls. Each had a coffee mug sitting beside them, a deck of red cards resting in the middle and each held three cards.
>>
File: Anastasia.jpg (22 KB, 512x512)
22 KB
22 KB JPG
>>5135309
The game paused as they turned to watch you, without wasting time you began the introduction. "Howdy, I am Corporal Mortimer, the Theta Candidate, it's very nice to meet all of you. I hope we can get along well and work well together. Do you mind if I sit?" Conveniently a spare chair was sitting open, the girl closest to you spoke up. Resting her cards down as she did. "Help me fix us another brew and I'll deal you in." You got a good look at the navy beret as she stood up, the beta symbol rested in the eye of an Octopus. Standing directly before you, it was easy to notice her height. The girl's freckled face only just reaches your chin level, then you really notice. The entire trio were short, not crazy small but while sitting you couldn't notice. Up close it was more apparent, they were all the same height. You found it a little strange, but you aren't one to judge.

You were unsure if different projects had height regulations. The duo left were busy chatting as one shuffled the cards. The short ginger girl busy looking you up and down, measuring you worth without a hint of subtlety. "You don't look special to me." The girl announced and handed you two of the mugs. Without another word she was off, leaving you standing at the table. The others said nothing. Quickly trailing the girl you easily caught up and kept pace with her. She gave you another look, staring into your eyes as she started to speak. "Oh right. I'm Anastasia, just call me Ana. How do you like your coffee? Or are you more of a tea kinda guy?" You hadn't really thought about it, but you felt as if that wasn't the answer the short pilot was wanting.

>Well Pilot? Coffee or Tea?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Excuse yourself and sit alone?
>Excuse yourself and talk to someone else? Write in
>Help make the drinks?
>Talk to Ana? Write in
>>
>>5135316
>>Well Pilot? Coffee or Tea?
>"I will take Tea, but let s first do the ones of the others."
>Help make the drinks? Yes
>>What do you say? Write in.
"Regardless of Tea or Coffee, why you wanted to say that to me ? Rumors i suppose ? Personally I consider my myself to the standard of Project Theta required for his Phobos candidates."
"Though we are all unique here, facts cannot be denied, that s something for all Phobos candidates. Each of them has been trained for reach a certain standard, above other humans."
"What can you tell me of Beta, Ana ? The tests and training ? There where specifics for the candidates in body and mind, before their recruitment ? What of you ?"
>>
>>5135316
>"Tea, please, but I'm not sure you want my help with making whatever the others want"
>"I'm just making the rounds of all the candidates here, comparing training processes and backgrounds. Care to fill me in on what Beta went through?"
>Offer to trade what you've learned about Alpha for it

As a side note, just based on the rumors we're hearing, and the fact that Sanity is a measurable stat, I think we should try to focus on training Mind in the future. Iron Will, and all that
>>
>>5135555
+1
>>
>>5135555
+1
>>
>>5135555
>>5135927
>>5136023
You pondered what hot beverage you prefer, both had their positives and negatives. However, it was Tea that won. "I will take Tea, but let's fix the others up first." The girl led you to a table at the side of the rec room. A selection of tea bags and coffee lay out arranged, a fancy selection. "I thought as much, you look like the kind." A coffee pot sat steeping, collecting the mugs she began to pour out the desired amount. "Get me the milk and sugar." Moving towards the direction she points you find a small refrigerator, resting on top it was also a glass container of sugar. With both items acquired you returned, Ana had found a forth mug and was placing a tea bag into it.

Humming to herself Ana took the milk and sugar and began getting the drinks in order. Three spoonfuls of sugar for one and two for the others. Making small talk you inquired about what she had said back at the table. "So what would make me look special? Personally I consider myself to the standards of Project Theta, the standards required for Phobos Pilot Candidates." The girl peeks at you through the corner of her eye, not bothering to make eye contact. "Pass me the honey, it's in the fridge too." Ana was clearly trying to avoid the question. Returning to collect the cold honey you couldn't help wondering about her slip of the tongue. Not wanting to let it go. As she reaches for the honey you snatch it away, Ana produces an annoyed sigh at the surprise.

Crossing her arms she turned to face you. "I suppose there are rumors about me?" You asked, wondering what they could even be. You had no idea. "I know about you, the situation in Theta, Eta, Zeta and Epsilon. You're all prospects for Emperor class Phobos. Just like me." Her face was sharp now, the soft young features masking the young woman's intentions. It seems like someone has been doing her own research before you even arrived. "What do you know about me?" The words came out faster than you could think to stop them, sounding hard and slightly threatening. You were unprepared, caught outside your shell. Anastasia grinned now, eyes gazing up at you mischievously. "Oh? All sorts. Somehow you still have your mind after the intense interference trails they put you through. High risk, highly valuable. They almost didn't bring you in, the other unit heads wanted nothing to do with Theta. So what exactly happened there? That's what they don't say. Why don't they whisper about what you did in Theta?" You stood in shock. The words crashing in around you, even the dinosaur couldn't save you.
>>
File: 7212829-HSC00001-7.jpg (116 KB, 770x518)
116 KB
116 KB JPG
>>5136349
"What do you… I mean…" Your breathing was shallow, lungs suddenly feeling heavy, the air uncomfortably hot. Ana didn't let up watching you intently for any hint. You had no idea what she was talking about. You push past the swirling daze and reply somewhat by instinct. "We are all unique here, that's a fact that none can deny. That is the same for all Phobos candidates, each of us have been trained to reach a certain standard, above what other humans find possible." The words of your Mistress ring out, as you rest a hand on the table to help steady yourself. Your body hummed, your mind wandered. But you couldn't remember.

You don't understand what she was saying. You had to ignore it, the conditioning fighting through your own absent minded shock. "What can you tell me about Beta, Ana? I'm sure your own training was similar to mine, the tests and traini-" she stepped closer, staring into your eyes. Hate bubbling behind her own. Your own vision waning as the edges of your sight blur. You fell cold, like back in that snowy place. No warmth was left in you. Just being so close to her almost knocks you over, wobbling you manage to stay steady with the assistance of the table. Her next words came low and hard, teeth bared as she whispers just for you.

Her small index finger digging into your chest as she pokes you a few times accenting each vowel. "You aren't royalty or… or even special! You shouldn't be here. You're a threat to us all. I don't know what happened, but I don't trust you Theta Candidate. Stay away from me and the rest of the Beta Unit… And when I do find out. They will all know." With that said she picked up the three mugs and left, returning to her own seat. The room pulsed, swallowing mouthfuls of air as you fight to stay upright. Unwilling to give in before your peers. You wouldn't fall. Not here. You had been through worse, you knew they were only words. But they dug deep.

!!MIND TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+1
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 3, 6, 2 + 1 = 12 (3d6 + 1)

>>5136353
>>
Rolled 2, 5, 4 + 1 = 12 (3d6 + 1)

>>5136353
BRAIN!
>>
Rolled 5, 5, 2 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5136353
Well, Something clearly went down in Theta.
>>
>>5136353
God damned mind fucking spooks from Beta. Stupid midgets playing with our brain waves. At least Eta carried her poison openly.

>>5136358
>>5136362
>>5136364
Somewhat of a success good on us.
>>
>>5136353
>"You aren't royalty or… or even special! You shouldn't be here. You're a threat to us all. I don't know what happened, but I don't trust you Theta Candidate. Stay away from me and the rest of the Beta Unit… And when I do find out. They will all know."
That's some mindgames right here.
Is she really referring to Royalty, because we said Emperor class. If I do recall some heads turned when we said it.
It's said here: you noticed a few turning heads out the corner of your eye, you sure they hadn't heard.
She's using our information against us that bitch. Typical bully technique. You talk friendly and they use whatever thing you say against you. She probably didn't know that information, she just heard us say it to other groups. That fucking bitch.
>>
>>5136462
But she mentioned that Zeta and Epsilon are providing Emperor-class pilots. So she knows SOMETHING, because those people haven't showed up yet, and if she was guessing blind she'd look pretty stupid afterwards
>>
>>5136505
That is true, but still this is an unfair advantage that has to be shared to our allies, so that she won't have and advantage.
>>
Ok time to answer i need a moment
>>
>>5136353
"Tsk I never said that though."
"I consider myself a soldier. Royalty, special that s not what I am."
"You shouldn't be here ? What nonsense is that. The projects and ultimately the military chain of command decide that, you aren't indipendent from it."
"I will obey only military command, not you. The reason I am doing this is for create a basic line for communications for future military operations. Why you fear me ?"
" Sorry what ? Find out ? About a Phobos Project details and objectives ? Did your head fall on the ground ? The majority of those informations can t be even know, without being an high officer. I don t even know of it. And keeping speaking of it, would be quite dumb. I suggest you before the military decide to think about you, to avoid that path. Not because of me. But because Command will no doubt dispose of any non authorized personnel, that gain access to those secrets. Even pilots."
"All know ? Hahaha. And then what ? Honestly I would like to know myself too. But seriously then what ? You get shot by command ? They can still reuse me. Ultimately my life and personality aren t needed for a soldier, even if I protest. They could just cancel my memories. Change my face. And good as new. Ready for another Phobos"
"And by the way. I don t have reason to be an enemy or desire to be one, so stop your mental trick or i will consider it an attack on me and knock you down. Is that clear ?"
>>
>>5136561
Anon who are you talking to?
>>
>>5136565
I think he meant to talk to the midget. You know Ana.
>>
>>5136565
Is for give Mortimer something to say to Ana.
If qm is ok with it.

It s honestly incredible that she is saying something like this in front of everyone. Also the military is no doubt recording anything we are doing here.
The only way she gets that top secret informations, is with a bullet in her head.
>>
>>5136573
I don't think she will get the bullet, because she still is a phobos candidate.
>>
File: Facade.jpg (291 KB, 1024x1199)
291 KB
291 KB JPG
>Lucky rolls. Lol
>>5136358
>>5136362
>>5136364
(12, 12, 13)
!!TEST PARTIAL SUCCESS!!

Yow crawl back into the shell, building walls up around your mind and collapsing into the deep dark. Escaping the accusations of the beta pilot. Everything holds, the boundary stands. Long enough for you to begin to collect yourself. But it was quickly built and bowed under the mental stress. Your legs give out for a second, the table catching you before you fully collapse. The clattering brought you back, mind waking from it's daze. The shock being pulled away. The cold becomes numb as the hot water meets your fingers, bouncing away from the knocked over mug you straighten up.

Brushing the hot liquid off, you inspected the wound. Thankfully it wasn't bad, just a little red. You notice Brigitta and Castilla watching you, turning away praying they hadn't seen you almost collapse. Cursing Anastasia you rushed to mop up the liquid, using paper towels you went about cleaning up. Despite snuffing out the episode you still felt strangely off center, you felt better straightening the containers and mugs. Your mind is distracted by the menial task. You wanted to rest. Your heart beat had slowed and everything was settling down, you glanced over at beta and the Trio continued their game. Then the door was kicked in again, the sudden loud noise causing you to jump and almost knock the mug over again.

It was Dr. Yumigawa, the woman cheering happily as another set of pilots followed her in. "Howdy everyone! The last two units have arrived." She declares cheerfully doing a little jig and shaking her hips to the rhythm of a beat that no one else could hear. Three people followed her in, she gestures to two young men. Both were dressed in full parade uniforms, gilded sabres on their hips. You looked shabby in comparison, it didn't help that you had speckles of tea across your lap and arms. Or the sweat on your face. "Allow me to present to you the candidates from the Epsilon Unit, Prince Peter Romanov and Grand Duke Andrei Konstantinovich!" The doctor cheered as she clapped, you instinctively joined in, "WooHoo!" You hear Katerina chant her voice devoid of any excitement, the entire rec room focusing on the new arrivals.
>>
File: disgusting.jpg (381 KB, 1920x1407)
381 KB
381 KB JPG
>>5136582
Beside the two boys another girl stood. Wearing jeans, combat boots and a camo jacket. She was a good head taller than the nobles. Her face is a younger reflection of the Doctor's own. "And a round of applause for our Zeta Candidate, my little sister Haruki Yumigawa!" You joined in again as Katerina let out further sarcastic cheers. "Take a moment to get to know each other! I'll be back in an hour and over dinner I'll share our upcoming schedule. Sounds like a plan? Great!" With that she pushed the pilots further into the rec room, gave her sister a little kick in the butt and slipped back out. The trio stood there awkwardly for a moment before heading in their own directions. The Epsilon Unit headed towards Katerina while the Zeta Candidate. Huh, She was heading directly towards you. Her face exuding how you felt, nothing but disgust.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Collect yourself further? Sit alone
>Follow the Doctor?
>Escape to your room?
>Talk to someone else?write in
>>
>>5136578
I still doubt they would just allow someone even a pilot to just willy nilly get top secret stuff. Anastasia really thinks that she will be able.
If the empire is the dictatorship i suspect they are, they will not allow a loss of important information. She will be probably reformed if she even tries.
>>
>>5136584
>Wheel around towards Gamma boys if not allies they will provide distraction to whatever assault Zeta is planning against you.
>>
>>5136572
>>5136573
I know. What anon didn't realize is that she left and in best scenario he is talking to himself
>>
>>5136584
>What do you do, Pilot?
Dry ourselves and try not to let the panic form the inside get outside.
>What do you say? Write in.
Howdy, I am Corporal Mortimer. I'm the Theta candidate, nice to meet you. Already heard your introduction from you sister.

How was Zeta?

You're probably also an Emperor prospect if I follow the pattern.

Just a heads up:
Don't talk to Beta Unit, they have a real snake amongst them. Katerina is the one sitting alone and can be pretty damn cold. The girls from Alpha are pretty friendly and the 2 Gamma boys are some pretty fun brother. Haven't reconned the rest yet.
>>
>>5136584
>What do you do, Pilot?
Stay alone for a moment. Clean ourselves properly. If the Zeta want to talk sure, welcome her.
Now we know Beta aren't our friends and have interrupt communications. Dumb decision from them. Anastasia also will receive payback with time. We will inform our mistress, of her possible future attempt to steal crucial intel from the military. Seriously who say that to one they consider an enemy ?

>What do you say? Write in
"Hello. I am Corporal Mortimer, from Theta Project. What do you want to talk of ?"

>>5136607
i just thought we could still talk. That s it.
>>
>>5136605
>>5136584
+1, I think we're done socializing with new people for today. This one looks like another Katarina but more intense, I doubt we can handle this right now.
>>
>>5136596
Dude she would be able to get top secret staff if only she talk with us we give it left and right to whatever person is willing to listen.
>>
>>5136615
I really doubt anything that Mortimer knows is that much of a secret. Otherwise they wouldn't let him talk.
The more serious stuff must be something he doesn't know.
>>
>>5136584
+1 to >>5136605
Ask them to run interference, then bail to our room. Cut our losses.

Everyone in this room is probably around the same clearance level, anyways. Honestly with what she talked about she could just have been more interested in talking with her guards/minders, and they gave her the info.
>>
>>5136631
I think we should wait with decision of full retreat after we find out what angry Asian women wants with us.
>>
I mean he clearly doesn't remember certain things. And he doesn't remember when he was a child, when they took him away from his home village. If some of this Projects are supposed to be secret then certain things shouldn't be known by no one. Otherwise people would know the military took away an entire village worth of childrens, for try and gain some Phobos pilots from it.
>>
>>5136584
One question QM. Does she really have those cyborg lines? If that is so, may we bring that up gently?
>>
>>5136652
You can ignore the cyborg lines. Used it more for the facial expression and vaguely asian appearance. Art doesn't 100% reflect characters, just the closest I can get.
>>
>>5136659
How big is the empire ?
Can we see cameras around us btw ? Or are they are really just leaving us here ?
Can we grab a gun if we want for shooting ? Are we autorized to have weapons on us in base ? Mostly for defend ourselves from further mental attacks. We aren't a psionic and i prefer to not give her an opening next time.
>>
>>5136674
Dude fact that MC got emotionally unstable for a moment doesn't mean you have the same way or even worse.
>>
>>5136678
From description that looks like a mental attack on the MC for several seconds. He even collapsed in the last post.
Eh ? Is that because I asked some questions to qm ?
>>
Is because of getting a weapon ? What s wrong with that ?
>>
>>5136697
Yes in connection with tangent from earlier. And fact you add space before question marks
>>
>>5136605
support
>>
>>5136605
Writing now. Post in a bit.

>>5136674
Morty knows very little about geography and even less about the general lay out of the Empire. He knows it covers most of the continent, however he knows even less about foreign powers, places and people.

No guns, you only just arrived here and know almost nothing about the situation. But you know most facilities keep tight control on weapons, you have to get permission to use a weapon and check it out to use on a range. Morty would assume its the same anywhere.

>Feel free to ask me any direct questions if anything is confusing guys. I'll try to answer between postin.
>>
>>5136706
A weapon for practice is something, i think we can get. If we can even one for self defense.
But I did ?
This is a space right there ^.
Between the d and the ?.
I don't understand your problem honestly, i just want to ask some questions to qm.
>>
>>5136715
Thank you for answering qm
Correct me if i am wrong, but where we attacked with a psionic attack through our mind ? Or something similar ?
Because Morti didn't look well at all and his mind seems to lose focus really fast. And then he goes down on the ground.
>>
>>5136715
And just for clarify, but anything that Morty knows about his training in Project Theta is really a state secret ? Most of it doesn t look like a secret. Are we allowed to talk of anything we have learn ?
>>
>>5136715
Huh. At first you thought she might really want a nice cup of tea or coffee. But the closer she got, the faster and longer her strides became. She was almost jogging at you. Oh fuck. You were pretty sure she didn't want anything to drink. The Zeta Candidate didn't blink, Haruki clearly had you set as her target. You had enough of angry girls for the day, sighing you pivoted. Doing a one eighty on your heels, you set off back across the rec room. Leaving your mug behind, the gamma boys weren't far. They were your best chance at back up. You caught glimpses of her from the corner of your eye, stalking you like some monster. You had to take the long way round, skirting the Beta Unit the best you could.

She was getting closer, faking a yawn and a stretch you looked behind. She was almost on top of you, looming over you as she kept pace. You increased your own, almost within range of the boys. Alex and Tony had noticed you, what was once smirks became serious looks as the pair stood up. You weren't sure if you looked panicked or flustered but they began to walk over. You feel her hand, it snatched at your wrist. Thankfully the swinging of your arm keeps it just out of reach. Skipping you burst forward, not trying to run and cause a full on confrontation. You let out a sigh of relief as the duo step past you to intercept the pilot.

Spinning you saw the pair standing almost face to face with her. She was taller than both of them. Thankful she hadn't walked straight through them, instead she stared directly at you. "391… it's been a while. Don't you remember me?" She spoke, well it was more of a growl. Through gritted teeth the words escaped. You didn't recognize her, you were sure you'd never met her before. You'd remember someone so tall. You felt weak again, but the shell held as the boys reinforced your courage. You take a step towards her, the boys giving a path. But only just, ready to intervene if the tall girl did anything. Others were watching now, the looks sending tingles down your spine. "I'm sorry I think you've got the wrong person." Her fist clenched, her breathing loud as she pulled air in through her nostrils, both flaring.
>>
File: 197096-middle.png (271 KB, 900x652)
271 KB
271 KB PNG
>>5136835
Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 1 Side B - Casual Engagement EX.
https://voca.ro/1kau8jPg9GcN

"I'll make you remember." She retorted menacing before turning to leave, you let out a breath. Relief flooding you, then the pain came next. Catching you off guard Hakuri had done a full spinning back kick, using the momentum to send her long leg snapping out between the boys and catching you in your sternum. Boot knocking you back, pain blinding you for a second. "What the fuck!" Alex roared, swinging without any hesitation. Tony was a little slow to attack the girl, it earned him a punch to the throat. He went down hard.

Alexander put up a better fight, his first punch catching her in the jaw. Unfortunately it barely seemed to slow her down, twisting again. She spun the lanky boy over her hip with his own momentum, he went tumbling into a sofa. Knocking the furniture over and landing with a loud bang. The entire room was up and crowding around the confrontation. a cacophony of shouts and screams bursting to life, the exchange igniting the tension that you had tried to ease. You're shaky on your feet but stand still. "Morty! Kick her fucking beanstalk ass!" Katerina roared through the noise, delta was hooting and hollering. Cass watched coldly, the alpha girls screaming for you all to stop fighting. Hakuri didn't care. Her eyes lay back on you, her teeth bloody as she smiles. The tall girl advances on you, hands raised and ready for combat.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Throw Down?Write in fighting style.
>Try and Escape?
>Apologize?Write in?
>Talk to Hakuri? Write in?

-+-+-+-

>We will roll for escape or combat if a style is chosen. It is an opposed roll. So when we vote on a style I will roll for Hakuri. Then call for rolls.

>Mfw I forgot to make a combat track, so have a poorly done Side B. The poor quality of the music is about what you should expect.
>>
>>5136841
>Throw Down?Write in fighting style.
>Brawler.
>From our position there should be two perfectly usable chairs in our vicinity. Throw one at her then break second one over her head.

Alex and Tony are bros for life they get as much aplha pussy as they want so help us god.
>>
>>5136844
Alternatively we can save second chair retreat using first chair distraction then throw second chair which should allow us get to the kitchen then throw cutlery the cups and plates cupboard and then finish her with the sink. Use that skill and whittle her down with suppressing fire all the way till she is down.
>>
>>5136841
Anthony and Alexander are keepers, bros for life. We met them less than 10 minutes ago and already they were ready to step up to defend us. Absolute chads.

>Throw Down? Write in fighting style.
She seems to like to throw kicks out, but that leaves her unbalanced. If we can bait out a kick, duck underneath it and swipe at her we'd knock her off her feet. Alternatively we can bait the kick again, dodge to the side and bodyslam her when she's off balance.
>>
>>5136855
I implore to throw at least at the start to do some damage. we get +3 from skill and if close range still in works we get extra +3 at least on the first throw.
>>
>>5136844
>>5136841
I will retract breaking chair over her head part. let's not kill her. just hit her in the chest or back
>>
>>5136870
Lobbing a chair followed by a bodyslam seems like a good opening tactic. The chair would give us the distraction we need to get within her non-kick range and hopefully knock her over.
>>
>>5136841
>Throw down
>Nail her with a chair, then
>Take it to the ground, try to go for a pin.
She’s tall, so probably has the reach advantage.

Also gamma definitely bros
>>
>>5136890
Support
>>
Cunt punt
>>
>>5136890
support
>>
>>5136841
>"Morty! Kick her fucking beanstalk ass!" Katerina roared

Katerina might be cold, sardonic bitch. But she is ours cold, sardonic bitch thats for sure also best cheerleader.
>>
>>5136930
Yeah, after the fight is done we definitly have to stop and realize that Katerina cheered us on during the fight and give her the puzzled stare of someone currently forcing their brain to make gear changes it's not prepared to do until she starts blushing furiosly.
>>
>>5136890
>gamma definitely bros
They are ye
>>
Rolled 1, 4, 2 + 5 = 12 (3d6 + 5)

This first roll will be for Hakuri. You are aiming to beat her roll.

>>5136890
>>5136902
>>5136910
Starting the fight by throwing the chair.

Roll 3d6+6(+3 for close range.
Best of three will be used.

Then I'll describe the round and we move onto the next set of rolls.
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 1 + 6 = 17 (3d6 + 6)

>>5136988
Oh lord have mercy.
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 1 + 6 = 17 (3d6 + 6)

>>5136988
>>
Rolled 6, 1, 5 + 3 = 15 (3d6 + 3)

>>5136988
>>
Rolled 6, 6, 6 + 3 = 21 (3d6 + 3)

>>5136988
Suddenly, chair!
>>
Rolled 3, 1, 1 + 6 = 11 (3d6 + 6)

>>5136988
Shit I can’t read instructions
God dat roll
>>
>>5136994
Three seconds too late for the highest roll possible, goddamn.
>>
>>5136988
>+5
Holy shit we should have run. She is beast in melee.
>>5136991
>>5136993
>>5136994
Let's hope chair in the face will negate that +3 advantage in hand to hand
>>
>>5136994
Good thing you were late you would have killed her you satan
>>
File: download.jpg (3 KB, 225x225)
3 KB
3 KB JPG
Rolled 2, 1, 1 + 5 = 9 (3d6 + 5)

>>5136991
>>5136992
>>5136993
This first roll will be for Hakuri. You are aiming to beat her roll.

Target :12
17, 17, 15
!!TEST SUCCESS!!

The boys bought you enough time, you were ready. You had been forged into a weapon, it was time to see if all that training paid off. You moved backwards quickly, dodging out of the arc of a wild spinning kick. If it had made contact Hakuri would have probably taken your head off. You stumble into one of the single chairs, rolling over it in a smooth motion. Fluidly you got one hand under and the other on top, holding it firmly as you stood up. The momentum of your roll and the assistance from your muscles lifting it off the ground, by the time the Zeta pilot was ready you had already made two full rotations.

Letting go of it, the small chair spun through the air, she hadn't expected that. You glimpse her eyes go wide as it slams into her chest. The force knocked her down as the crowd howled for blood. "Kick his fucking teeth in!" A voice you were sure was Anastasia cried out in annoyance. But the girl was far from down, pushing the chair off herself almost as soon as she had touched the ground. But the boys weren't out of the fight yet, Anthony stumbled forward trying to stamp on the Pilot. She kicked out his knees with a lucky thrust. But she was still down, you had to act fast. Throwing yourself forward you dove. Hoping to restrain the girl while she was at a disadvantage.

>Next comes the pinning.
You will be rolling a Body test.

Roll 3d6+3(+1 for close range.)
Best of three will be used.

Then I'll describe the round and we move onto the next set of rolls. If need be.

>>5136994
God damn that would have just won you the fight. Gaining you the Throwing Chair proficiency.
>>
Rolled 5, 2, 4 + 3 = 14 (3d6 + 3)

>>5137007
Go!
>>
Rolled 2, 4, 2 + 3 = 11 (3d6 + 3)

>>5137007
>>
>>5137007
Hakuri rolls suck ass. Maybe give her now as fellow pilot?

Also fuck you Anastasia you bitch!
>>
Rolled 3, 5, 1 + 3 = 12 (3d6 + 3)

>>5137007
Holy shit zeta how are you this incompetent
>>
>>5137012
>Maybe give her now as fellow pilot?

*Maybe give her Bo2

Also shame no chair throwing proficiency. We would have mecha with folding chair weapon kek.
>>
File: wind-up-teeth.gif (1.27 MB, 498x371)
1.27 MB
1.27 MB GIF
Rolled 6, 6, 2 + 5 = 19 (3d6 + 5)

>>5137009
>>5137011
>>5137013
This first roll will be for Hakuri. You are aiming to beat her roll.

Target: 9
14, 11, 12
!!TEST SUCCESS!!

You dive as she sits up, land on her chest to chest straddling her due to her superior length. The wind is knocked from her lungs, spraying you with spittle and blood. But you barely register the specklets across your face, your hands snatch for her own. She was too tall to get into a proper hold, but you managed to tug them free. And she collapses back onto the ground, pinning them down. Hakuri bucks with her hips, trying to drive you off. Wrestling to free herself, she managed to get one hand free of your grip for just a moment. "I got her!" Alex roars, appearing from over the sofa like the rising sun falling onto her arm.

Allowing you to use both your own to hold her other arm down. "Mort-arghhh!!" She roars thrashing like crazy, she tries to dive a knee into your back. But fails to do anything besides bump you up and down. Fighting to keep her down, you felt her tremble. Suddenly her arm starts to raise, bloodshot eyes staring into your own as she screams further. Flexing you could feel the coils of muscle under her skin, tight and hard. Steel against flesh. She began to push your hands further back. Desperate and fighting like a demon. You wouldn't let go, breathing hard as you fought to keep it down. The moment she got her arm off the ground a few inches she let it fall back down, your own strength sending you falling forward onto her. Gnashing teeth snapped a few inches away from your face, she bucked her hips wildly. Bouncing you closer as your balance was lost. "I'm here! I gotcha!" Tony shouts. You feel his hand grabbing your belt and weakly starts to pull you out of biting range.

>Next comes the pinning. Time to finish it
You will be rolling a Body test.

Roll 3d6+5(+1 for close range. +2 for help)
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 2, 5, 5 + 5 = 17 (3d6 + 5)

>>5137033

God bless gamma
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 4 + 5 = 17 (3d6 + 5)

>>5137033
Well, she knows our name. Or overheard Kat say it.
>>
Rolled 3, 5, 4 + 5 = 17 (3d6 + 5)

>>5137033
>>
>>5137039
>>5137043
>>5137044
You all let your guard down and now she strikes.
>>
It seems all the ladies want a taste of morty
>>
We should have use range retreating strategy. Dropping sink on her might be within reasonable self-defence. Cyborg bitch!
>>
File: image.png (188 KB, 619x392)
188 KB
188 KB PNG
>>5137039
>>5137043
>>5137044
Same as before. Decide attack, then we will roll off again.

Target: 19
17, 17, 17

!!TEST FAILURE!!

The beast still had fight in her, she bucked again. Throwing you into teeth range, you started to scream now. Hakuri's teeth find purchase in the side of your neck, trying to pull away as you wish to escape. The pain became hot and wet as you felt her teeth grind into your flesh. She was tasting your blood now. Tony let out his own cry of pain as she thrashed further. The boys all let out a moan of pain in unison. "My balls." The boy gasped. Your strength gave out, fading away as her hand got free. She drove it up into your ribs, her fangs keeping you in place as she punched you again and again.

Your ribs ached, again and again. Her fist struck like the beat of a drum. She drove a knee into your ass as you tried to pull out her bite. Meat tearing away as hot blood snaked down your neck. She sent you flying, rolling over her and onto Alexander. "Fucking hell!" He shouted in shock as she turned onto him next, punching him in the face as he couldn't defend himself. Your neck burned, the air stinging it painfully. Next she swung her legs round kicking Alex off her arm. You stumble to your feet, the crowd going wild. She was coming for you, backing up into the delta boys, they pushed you back into the fray. Hakuri was worse for wear, but wasn't out. The fight wasn't over yet. You needed a new plan.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Throw Down?Write in fighting style.
>Try and Escape?
>Apologize?Write in?
>Talk to Hakuri? Write in?
>>
>>5137083
This……Has escalated a little more than expected.
Time to be a little more defensive, wait for someone with authority to stop the damn assets from killing each other
>Try and catch whatever limb she kicks at us with, then send her into the crowd with it. Wait for her to make a move, and dodge/counter
>>
>>5137083
Go in for a dragon kick!
>>
>>5137083
CUNT PUNT!
>>
>>5137132
KICK HER IN THE BABYMAKER
>>
>>5137111
Supporting this. Maybe tell one of the Alpha girls to get someone if they haven't already sent someone
>>
>>5137083
>write in
We can't be too defensive. We need to knock her out of the fight or put her in a position of submission. Push her away, then sweep her legs. When she falls on the ground kick her in the ribs, and then push one of our foots in her throath and demand surrender while she is still down. She should surrender unless she really wants to teach us a "lesson".

She clearly doesn't want us to remain without wounds on us, if not worse. For the military this is probably just another test, otherwise they would have already be here or have some soldiers around for keep an eye on us and divide us. Until we have serious injuries or risk to die, they probably will not care.
>>
>>5137083
>Throw Down?Write in fighting style.
>Yeet another chair at her

Anons haven't learned yet that throwing is our best bet.
>>
>>5137083
She has bitten us.
>fight the dirtiest way you have ever fought.
>>
>>5137454
This
>>
Rolled 3, 2, 5 + 5 = 15 (3d6 + 5)

This first roll will be for Hakuri. You are aiming to beat her roll.

>>5137704
>>5137454
>>5137179
>>5137132
Body test. Roll 3d6+2

Looks like fight dirty is the winner. Gonna take 3 rolls to beat the target set as you go toe to toe with her. Will write once all three rolls in. Might be slow since it's mid day.
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 6 + 2 = 14 (3d6 + 2)

>>5137750
Oh lord are going to die before we even synch with our war machine?
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 1 + 2 = 12 (3d6 + 2)

>>5137750
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 3 + 2 = 13 (3d6 + 2)

>>5137750
COME ON LADS
>>
>>5137755
>>5137756
>>5137761
Should have throw more shit at her. I don't know why anons insist on handicapping ourselves in hard fight.
>>
>>5137755
>>5137756
>>5137761
FUCK!
At least she we won't go down without giving her a few smaks.
>>
>>5137780
The chair was indeed a powerfull weapon.
>>
File: randy-orton-rko.gif (670 KB, 220x220)
670 KB
670 KB GIF
>>5137755
>>5137756
>>5137761
Target: 15
14, 12, 13

!!TEST FAILURE!!

You had enough messing around, the throbbing pain in your neck driving you forward. It was time to play dirty, leaning low and scooping your hand along the ground as you advanced on Hakuri you snatched up a handful of strewn about cards. Throwing them ahead, casting your next move behind a cover or cards. Reeling back you put your full momentum into a high sweeping kick. Your leg split the smoke screen and met nothing. The cards hamper your own vision too. As another boot broke the curtain simultaneously, catching you on the jaw the world turned black.

For a second you were back in the snow. Surrounded by the old stone buildings of your village. No one was around as the cold dark closed in on you, a storm of liquid night. Then your head hit the ground and you were back in the world of the living. The pain reassured you that you were unfortunately still alive. Rolling to the side too slowly to escape Hakuri as a high axe kick caught you in the shoulder, pain dancing along your brutalised nerves. "I got yah buddy!" Tony roared, charging into the lanky girl. Wrapping an arm around the boy's neck as he tackled her, she used the forward momentum to carry the both of them over you.

Throwing all her weight onto him, the pair landed on you before you could roll further away. The wind escaped your lung, desperate for air you thrashed trying to crawl away. Brigitta appeared, through a hazy blanket you reached for her. The world was ringing, thankful the girl grabs tight pulling you from under the pile. You cough, your throat sore as you struggle to breathe. Eyes pinned shut you waited for the beating to continue. All you could feel was the ground and her small hands on your wrists. Fighting to stay conscious you breathe through a straw. But no beating came again. Sound came back eventually, the trickle of running water that turned into the tone of a voice.
>>
>>5137844
"-get them to medical. I'll deal with her..." You didn't recognize the voice, but the howling and shouts were gone now. The crackle and squeak of radios reassuring you that someone was in charge. Hands worked around you, pain throbbing down your ribs and body. You moaned as they hefted you. You tried to walk, each step weak. Giving out before you could take another. Opening your eyes you watched through a cloudy glass window as you were dragged along corridors and into a pristine white room. The glow burning your eyes. A tall shadow appeared, saving you from the light. "Already? Well get him on the stretcher and I'll give him a look over." You lay on the soft bed, doing your best to assist the men carrying you. "Can you hear me?" The doctor asked, his voice distant as he began to turn your head about. A light blinded you, flinching away you glimpsed more men as the world began to solidify.

Anthony and Alexander were next to limp through the door, a few delta boys helping them along. The doctor gave you all a look over. You'd thankfully escaped any real damage, but it would take a few days for the bruises and pain to fully go. The doctor bandaged the shallow bite wound and gave you some painkillers to take and left you to rest until someone came to collect you. "Morty… remind me to never ask you for woman advice." Alexander relented from his own bed, nursing his split lips and steadily darkening eye. "For real. You've got a real bad taste in women." Anthony added, nursing an ice pack to his balls. The bastards laugh, you couldn't help joining in. It hurt to even laugh. But the beating had come without any reason, you hesitated to say anything. Just suffering.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Take a painkiller and rest up?
>Talk to Gamma boys? Write in?
>>
>>5137845
>Talk to Gamma boys? Write in?
Thanks for the back up. I have no idea who that chick was.
>>
>>5137845
>What do you say? Write in.
>Worst part is I still don't remember her.
>>
>>5137845
>>5137859
+
>Promise gamma boys some gentle girls in the future
>Ask them what happened after we get KO'ed by tall Asian lady
>>
>>5137845
>Talk to Gamma boys
>"I don't know boys, I thought I was doing pretty well. I did almost get us a date with the Alpha girls. If you discount the last encounter I'd say it was a decent success, and I did try my hardest to disengage from that one before it went the way it did..."
>"...thanks for sticking up for me, I would've been worse for wear if you weren't there."
>>
>>5137876
+1
Also
>"What did they give that woman to be such a fucking machine."
>>
>>5137845
>What do you do, Pilot?
What we did to people again to be hated so much ?


>What do you say? Write in.
Laugh more
"Thanks guys. For real."
"I still don t know who she is."
"Ah before her i talked to that Beta girl. Ana ? Anastasia. Not nice at all. And she know something of me that i have no idea of."
"I doubt this is a coincidence"
"Well at least I know who not to trust. God it still hurts"
>>
>>5137858
>>5137859
>>5137873
>>5137876
"Thanks for the back up, I have no idea who that chick is. Besides being some ass kicking machine, but I would have been worse off without you guys." Each word hurt your throat, wincing away the tears of pain the boys replied. "For real, she just wouldn't go down… luckily security showed up when it did and saved all our asses." You even worried a little about her showing back up to finish you off. "Well she remembers you… Are you sure you didn't break her heart?" You tried to keep from moving, but even just laying still sent pain down your sides. "Worst part is I still don't remember her, so her beating didn't do much to help my memory. I promise next time I'll find some more gentle girls. I even almost set up a date with the Alpha girls." The boys were a lot more active, Alexander stretching on his bed, rotating his hip and shoulders. "For real, things were going pretty good until she showed up."

You laugh. "So what happened after I went down? I was out of it for a second…" Tony spoke next, attempting to stand before crawling back into bed. "Not much, you missed me getting kicked in the balls a few more times. Alex kept her from you and the alpha girl, security pulled her off him pretty much right after throwing a few punches." Alexander interrupted you before you could reply. "I had her right where I wanted her!" You laugh again, the duo joining in. The door opens unprompted, a few people shuffling in. You recognized Mistress Yuga instantly, her face as cold as usual. Besides her was a worried Dr. Yumigawa, her hair dishevelled. She seemed relieved after hearing you all laugh.

Towering over the women was a man in a suit, even well dressed he carried a gruff exterior. It didn't take long for you to realize who he was, the gamma commander looked like a mix of the two boys. His face was harsh and scarred. The pin resting against his beret marked him as a pilot. It was the same as the boy's own. The laughter died quickly, your eyes did their best to avoid your own commander. The boys did their best to stand up, snapping out a sloppy pair of salutes. You would have tried to do the same, but even sitting up made your head spin. "Are you boys ok? I'm so sorry, I didn't think she would… Dr. Cernovich said you will all be fine in a few days." Haru says her voice panicked as she rushed over to you first, before moving on to inspect the others and push them back into bed.
>>
>>5138018
Mistress Yuga came to a stop by your bed, sighing as she began to inspect you. The smoke bothered your battered lungs, but you said nothing. "The Zeta Candidate did all this? Impressive." Your Mistress said, admiration in her voice. The Commander of Gamma let out a huff, like the snuffling of a wild animal. "Left in this state and you giggle like children. No wonder a girl did this to you. Do I expect too much from my sons?" He asked the room, but you didn't answer. Neither did the pair of boys. He was a giant, the fancy clothes doing little to hide his daunting physique. His eyes linger on you for a moment, averting your own eyes you focused on your hands. "Come now Captain, thankfully nothing unfixable happened. We are still on schedule." The hulk of a man crossed over to his sons, taking a moment to examine their wounds one at a time. He shook his head in disappointment, grumbling undecipherable words.

Your Mistress examines you to a similar degree, prodding your ribs. "Well how about we get them to their rooms! And tomorrow we'll start again! I'll be sure to set Haruki straight so don't worry boys." The walk to your room was hard, the boys left you behind as their father marched them off. Mistress Yuga remains to escort you. The walk was awkward. Both of you said nothing, she'd walk a few feet then pause and wait for you to catch up. No one else was around, through the corridors you were led until she opened a door to usher you inside. The number 391 sat on the entrance, marking it as your own. Hobbling inside Yuga left you after insisting you rest. The room was large, another doorway led to what you assumed was a bathroom. You didn't have the strength to check. Weakly you crawled into bed, in the far corner was a large desk with a terminal set up on it. Books and your bag rested beside it. Mounted to a wall a thin tv sat.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Take a painkiller and rest up?
>Try out the Tv?
>Try out the Terminal?
>Explore your room?
>Do something else? Write in
>>
>>5138021
>What do you do, Pilot?
Taken painkillers and start excercising your body and mind.
You will learn from your defeat. It is the best teacher after all.
>>
>>5138021
>What do you do, Pilot?
Take a painkiller. Remind ourselves of what we have learn today. And that neither Zeta or Beta, are friendly, with them we should keep up our guard. Gamma are brothers, is nice to have someone to talk with again.

>>Explore your room?
Check what there is around. Also put our stuff out from the bag. And find a place for our dino.
Then

>Try out the Terminal?
Let s see what it can do. Maybe later the tv.
>>
>>5138021
>Painkiller, and rest.
>”Mistress, how did the Zeta candidate know me?”
Trying to train our body would only prolong our recovery. Maybe some mental exercises, take a walk down memory lane?
>>
>>5138052
I think she left
don t know why the option for talking is there though
>>
>>5138059
Standard:
>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.
Probably for consistency.
>>
>>5138062
yeah
>>
>>5138021
>unpack and Explore your room?
>Take a painkiller and rest up?
The earlier we go to sleep earlier we can set record of the local shooting range.
>>
>>5138072
They still said we need to wait a few days for heal completely. Might has well pass some time before crushing in bed. We will probably not start the schedule like everyone else. What are they going to do if we stay up more than usual ?
>>
File: download (2).jpg (4 KB, 190x266)
4 KB
4 KB JPG
>>5138030
>>5138072
The pain was too much, you couldn't rest. Every breath sends shooting pain through you, the taste of blood overwhelming. You felt sick. The small bottle of pills you gripped looked more appealing as it rattled. Sitting up you stumbled towards the other doorway, eyeing the fittings. Pushing the door you found a simple small bathroom, a tall glass shower sat on the corner. A toilet and metal sink. Turning on a forcet you ducked low and began to slurp the water down hungrily. It helped soothe your throat and fought against the headache that scattered your thoughts. Damning the Zeta girl you pop open the bottle and take a pill.

Quickly swallowing one down you drank more water. Sitting on the toilet you examined the bottle, the medication didn't have any identification on it. A plain white label bare of any markings. You thought it odd, but the pain began to fade after a few minutes. Enough that you could walk unaided. Taking half steps you meander into the main room again. Your bed lay against the far wall, a small bedside table was next to it. A slim alarm clock and a small lamp furnishing it, the floor was smooth marble. Even wearing clothes hurt. Kicking your boots off you quickly undressed, dropping your jacket, undershirt and trousers on the floor. You keep on your boxers. A large mirror traced down your tall metal closet, without having to move your neck you could see the blotchy bruises littering one side of your body.

You looked like shit. Ignoring your wounded state you tried to look on the bright side. Your room was pretty sweet, you had never had a television or a terminal before. You had lost your beret, who knew where it was now. Letting out a sigh you felt better, body cooling as the pain was chased away. Making dinosaur noises you trotted the small figure over to the desk. Placing the magnificent creature on top of the sleek looking terminal. You drop into the chair, the rolly wheels surprising you. That was new, gingerly you did a few laps in your chair. Eventually returning to the desk, the terminal was a more recent model than you were used to. But the big button usually turns it on.
>>
File: download (1).jpg (15 KB, 275x183)
15 KB
15 KB JPG
>>5138224
After a few seconds the screen flickered to life as the grooved box began to hum. Loading up the screen flickered through symbols before the login screen popped up. You were a little stumped, no one had shared any credentials for the facility with you. Taking a few random guesses, none work so you try your old username and password but that didn't work and neither did Username1 and password1. Admitting your own defeat you left it alone for now, you had never really used terminals much. Only to play snake or pinball. And if you were feeling exceptionally intelligent you'd attempt to play minesweeper.

Examining the desk further you looked at the books there. Three books were there, a large heft weapon manual, flipping through it you recognized it as the source of the thin manuals you had read before. The other two books were thin and covered nothing new, all explaining linking with a Phobos and mental conditioning. Ignoring them, you rested your bag on your lap. You were wheeling back to your bed when you heard a frantic knock on your door. You froze. Undressed, you panicked. "Who is it?" You call, your voice cracking painfully. "It's me, Hurry up and open the door you idiot. If they catch me out after… Oh Shit!" You recognized the voice. It was Katerina.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Tell her to go away?
>Rush to let her in?
>Get dressed before letting her in?
>Pretend you didn't hear her?
>>
>>5138225
>>Rush to let her in?
>>
>>5138225
>Rush to let her in
How sweet of Katerina to come visit, she really does care about us. All we had to do was get in a big fight with some Asian girl for her to drop the Ice Queen facade and melt for us.

Can't wait to tell Anthony and Alexander about Katerina's late night booty call tomorrow.
>>
>>5138225
> Rush to let her in?

No shit, I'm biting this bait.
>>
>>5138225
>>Rush to let her in?
Howdy
>>
>>5138225
>Rush to let her in?
>>
File: Kitty-Kat.jpg (82 KB, 736x1083)
82 KB
82 KB JPG
>>5138255
>>5138290
>>5138294
>>5138320
>>5138364
You were shocked, frozen still in your underwear. The surprise in her own voice driving you to act quickly, you gave your scattered clothes a momentary look. But your body was far from perfect being in condition, not wanting to waste time or risk straining yourself you headed for the door, your shoulder sending dull pain as you twist the handle. Hiding half behind the door you peek out, you were pushed back. The door slamming into your ribs, the painkillers not strong enough to hide it. You wince and your feet buckle as the girl pushes her way in. Thankfully the door handle took your weight until you regained your strength.

"Howdy." You groaned, quickly closing the door as she strode in. "I came to make you feel better, but not that much better." Katerina cackled, laughing as she jumped on to your bed. Stretching out as she kicked her boots off. "You rushed me." You retorted in a low voice, ribs back to hurting. Propping herself up on an elbow she eyes you, unwavering as you keep you back to her, watching over your shoulder. Fighting the pain it caused in your neck. "Don't be shy now Morty, do you show those tight little buns off to all the girls. No wonder the Zeta Candidate came for your ass." She continues laughing, you notice she was wearing your beret.

Climbing into your shell you held embarrassment back, turning to face her you wobbled your way over to the clothes on the floor. "Ouch… Let me guess? I don't wanna see the other guy?" Katerina says sarcastically, crawling along the bed to look at your wounds. Your cheeks wanted to burn a bright red, but your mind kept your battered body at bay. The pain helps to distract you. Reaching for your trousers you wince, almost falling over. You manage to catch yourself. Using the bed edge as support. Katerina crawled closer again. "Need help with that?" You shook your head. "I guess now you're crippled and retarded."
>>
>>5138648
Ignoring the words you wrestle the trousers on, getting them up to your hips before collapsing onto the bed. Breathing hard as your back throbbed. Her face appeared over your own, in an icy state of observation. "I gotta say, for apparently a top candidate. You aren't leaving much of a good impression." You raised both your hands expressing your own opinion flatly. She slipped back out of view, you felt her roll off your bed and began to rustle around your room. It took you a moment to regain enough strength to roll onto your side. She was searching through the draws of your desk, pulling a long black remote free. Fiddling with it the tv snapped on, the low hum of chatter began but off again and again as she flicked through channels.

Eventually settling on a station, a video played. People danced in a club, as music began to play. Shaking her hips to the beat she turned to face you, a smirk on her face. Smoothly she slipped a long pack of cigarettes free, placing one between her lips she lit up as she danced from side to side. The music's upbeat lyrics help smother any tension, at least for now. You mainly made out the lyrics about 'summer this summer that'. Sitting up through the pain the girl jaunted her way over, offering you a cigarette. You wanted to take another pill but were unsure how many it was safe to take.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Take another pill and try to rest?
>Accept the Cigarette?
>Decline the Cigarette?
>Put on the rest of your clothes?
>>
>>5138651
>"So, did me blacking out cause me to miss anything important? Or even anything interesting?"
>If you're expecting me to dance, I'm still way too out of it for anything besides sitting up

>Decline the Cigarette
We don't smoke
>>
>>5138651
>Decline the Cigarette
Still not healthy, being a beaten to a pulp doesn't change that. A man has to stick to his principles.

>What do you do, Pilot
>Feebly attempt to take the Beret, fail due to pain sensory overload

>What do you say
>"Close Quarters was never my specialty. The firing range was my area of expertise, back at Theta. There's no place for the finess you need to handle a firearm in a street brawl. But nevermind that, why are you here? Has the Ice Queen come only to unleash a Blizzard of biting words and too gleefully delight in my suffering, or does her visit have a purpose beyond that?"
>>
>>5138651
So what happened after I left?
>Accept the Cigarette?
Join the cool kids club.
>>
>>5138651
>Accept it
Fuck it. You ever been beaten up before? A smoke feels perfect in a fight club kinda way.

>"Nice of you to visit, definitely didn't expect you to care. I'm guessing you shouldn't be here but judging by these you're not exactly risk averse. Or maybe you just like seeing guys get beaten up, you sadist."

That last one as a light flirt
>>
>>5138651
>What do you say
"Do you have an idea why Zeta hates me ? Same from that girl from Beta, Anastasia. I don t know either of them. They look like psycho."

>Decline the Cigarette
>>
>>5138651
>Decline the Cigarette?
>Tell her that our room is no smoking zone
>Tell her she is best cheerleader. First shouting encouragements now dancing to make us feel better much wow.
>In our defence it's hard to defeat a tin can without a proper opener
>>
>>5138725
>>5138730
>>5139302
>>5139318
You shake your head, the girl shrugging at your decline, returning the box to her pocket. "Well my room is actually a no smoking zone, so you should put that out." Katerina didn't like that, her brow furrowed as she took a deep pull. Blowing smoke directly into your face, you cough a little but fan it away. "Oh yeah? Or what? Are you gonna stop me? You don't exactly have the best record when it comes to fighting girls, anyway I think I could take you even if your ass wasn't already tenderized." Smoothly she hopped from one leg to the other, her airborne foot leg snapping towards you. It stopped a foot away from your head, you would have flinched if your body wasn't so tired.

Gingerly she hopped around your room showing off her forms, high kicks, sweeps and a mix of punches. All while keeping the cigarette between her lips, it was rather impressive. You retort quickly. "Close Quarters was never my specialty to begin with; the firing range is my area of expertise. But that doesn't matter, why are you here? I doubt you enjoy talking to me that much or is it just to delight in my suffering?" The girl stopped her forms and turned to watch you, clearly annoyed by your interruptions. "Well I came to actually give you back your beret. But since you're behaving like such a cry baby bitch about it. I think I'll keep it." You scoff, shaking your head. Eventually holding your hand out expectantly. She took the beret from her head and went to hand it over, as you lean further to reach for it she snatches it away. Laughing smugly as you sigh.

She put it back on and danced her way over to the bathroom, the song changed but you didn't recognize it either. "So first you encourage me to fight and now you're here to dance and make me feel better? Because I'm not exactly in any condition to join in." The girl reappeared from the bathroom. You wanted to get up and snatch your beret back, but you knew the girl would be too quick to catch in your current state. "I'm just dancing, it is your own fault for missing out on the chance to be dancing with me." She said cheekily with a wink. Before mimicking gagging at the idea. You rolled your eyes, the pain finally starting to fade again. "So did I miss anything important while I was out?"
>>
>>5139723
Flopping into your chair she rolls over, a trail of smoke reaching up to the ceiling. "Not much, after you attempted to swallow her boot your boyfriends tried to defend your honor and got beaten up for it. But security pulled her out pretty soon after that. One of the midgets from Beta was complaining about you, but I didn't really care enough to pay attention. Unit commanders eventually showed up and we all got seperated. So I dunno what the other heard, Haru apologized and said everything would be continuing on schedule. Just that the meeting she had planned will take place in the morning and then we'll begin to prepare for linking." Kicking her feet up on your bed she leaned back on the chair, turning the music down until you could talk easier.

She was pretty close and her guard was down. "Do you have any idea why the Zeta Candidate hates me? And Beta girl?" Katerina rubbed her chin, humming in deep thought. "You tell me? I've never met any of you people before in my life. But I did hear something…" She replied before trailing off. "What did you hear?" The girl shook her head, wheeling closer as she grinned. "Haruki? She said 'You can't fight for shit." Laughing she pounded her feet on the mattress, the vibrations sending soft pain along your tender body. You had a feeling that she might have heard something and was keeping it from you. Taking the chance you reach for the beret, she easily knocks you hand aside with her own and rolls out of your range, sticking her tongue out. "That wasn't very nice, Morty. I'll have to punish you now!"

She cackled, you moaned at your failure, today wasn't your day. "Well it was nice of you to visit, I definitely didn't expect you to care. Even if you probably should be here, for a chimney you're not exactly risk averse. Or maybe you just like to see guys beaten up. You some kind of sadist?" The girl laughed at that, slapping her knee. Stubbing out the cigarette on your desk Katerina got up, her eyes glinting focused entirely on you. Slowly she began to creep towards you, a smirk spreading across her lips as she spoke. "Well, I'm not sure if you know little Morty, but all good devils masquerade under the light." You were unsure what she had planned but before she could do anything to you a soft knock sounded from your door. You both freeze. "Who is it?" You inquire, but no voice comes through the door. Instead another soft knock echoes through.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Open the door?
>Hide Kat before opening the door?
>Don't open the door?
>Put on the rest of your clothes?
>>
>>5139726
>>What do you say? Write in.
>Take another painkiller
>"Well Kat are you going to open the doors or your plan is to make cripple do it? "
>>
>>5139726
>>5139738
+
>Equip chair in case of Asian bitch coming here to finish the job.
>>
>>5139723
>>Hide Kat before opening the door?
>>
>>5139726
>Ask Kat to check the door
>Crack door, see who it is
Not much of a point in equipping chair, we're damn down and out
If it's someone with authority, not like they'd be resistant to announcing who they are
>>
>>5139726
>Stubbing out the cigarette on your desk
What a bitch.

She did say or implied tat she doesn't want to be caught, but idk ow much we can do about it.

>If she insist hide her under the bed and kick her boots under it also.
>>
>>5139726
>Hide Kat before opening the door?
>>
>>5139726
>Open the door
>put on the shirt too before we open the door
I don't think we're in any positon to force Katerina to hide, but if she was sincere when she said she didn't want to get caught sneaking about she'll take the hint and hide herself away. She's a clever girl, I'm sure she can manage that.

At least we'll be wearing pants when we open the door this time.
>>
She stink our room with cigarettes so whoever it will be can deduce she was here that's one. This doors doesn't really block sound that good so whoever is on the other side probably heard her already. But I don't mind hiding her for comedic means.
>>
>>5139726
>Open the door
>put on the shirt too before we open the door
>try not to look miserable.
>>
>>5139726
>Open the door
>put on the shirt too before we open the door

Gamma bros or someone else want to beat Mortimer ?
>>
>>5139801
Bros would announce themselves. I don't really trust this quite knocks but what can we do
>>
The girls who hate morty are probably theta rejects
>>
>>5139819
Nothing honestly. I don t think doors have the part for see with the eye outside.
Worst is someone that wants to beat us.
Best someone shy i suppose or someone we didn't talk to.
I recon any officers or our mistress, can just enter with a pass in any room they want.
>>
>>5139842
Best guess it's Zeta girl hopefully here to apologize. Make sense to keep quiet because there is chance we wouldn't have opened.
>>
>>5139824
It s likely yeah. Though we will never known on our own anytime soon.


>>5139853
Could be, but judging from being bite and violently attacked i am not so sure. If she offers an apology i will take it with some caution, because it might be she has been given the order to be nice.
Until we can be sure, we shouldn't give trust.

I was kind of surprised that her big sister was preoccupied before she entered, the room with us and gamma bros. It s probably because someone higher up didn't like that pilots that just arrived, and didn't even make one phobos test, risked to be heavily wounded or die. The decision of leaving the candidates there, was probably of the doctor as well.
>>
why does he call his handler mistress tho
>>
>>5139871
>I was kind of surprised that her big sister was preoccupied before she entered, the room with us and gamma bros.

Why wouldn't she be preoccupied? They are running test soon it's probably shit ton of work and it's not like she is doctor that takes care of cuts and bruises.

>>5139879
Because she is sex maniac.
>>
>>5139879
Maybe it s a special title back at base ? idk either. Mortimer and her are fine when it said.
I find kind of funny they have left Morty to his devices after arriving at the capital base. Before yesterday is life was an precise and organized. Probably full of orders, briefings and what not.

>>5139891
I was surprised because her little sister is a candidate as well. And from what i have understand so far there is supposed to be, some rivalries between different projects. I am glad she cares more of being a doctor first.
>>
>>5139879
The whole project is just a facade, in reality it aims to create a sex dungeon for the highest officials of the empire.
>>
Huh maybe what he's repressing is the memory of her raping him
>>
What if all the other theta kids died and we got brainwashed to forget?
>>
>>5139801
>>5139790
>>5139779
"One sec, I'm Coming!" You quickly fanned a hand at the long haired girl, but Katerina did not need you to remind her to hide. Grinning broadly she mouthed the words back to you, shaking her head from side to side as she did. But you didn't understand her meaning so you ignored it. Before you could even get on your under shirt she had climbed into bed, wiggling under the covers and pulling a pillow over herself. You could easily make out her body, the girl clearly had never won any games of hide and seek as a child.

Hobbling over to the door the knocking continued. "Yes, one second. I'm here." Gripping the handle you opened the door, the sight on the other side causes you to jump in surprise. Weakly, taking a step back as you notice the large frame of Haruki, the Zeta Candidate stood there. Her face is impartial to your appearance, her eyes fix on you. Clearly red from crying. She now wore a tracksuit, you could make out a bruise forming on one side of her face. Before her she holds a blue tray, food is arranged on it. It was probably your dinner, why she was bringing it made less sense. But she didn't attack you, an awkward moment hung in the air as you both looked at eachother. Unsure what to do, you settle on taking another step back and she follows. Stepping through the threshold and into your room. Hands stretching out to pass you the tray.

Coldly you climbed back into your mental shell, unsure of what to expect. But words came from her next, foreign and heavy. Flowing and intangible in your mind. They were something you were sure you had never heard before. But as you thought of those strange noises they slowly made sense, reaching out you grasped the meaning without even understanding how. "I'm sorry, forgive me." Shocked by the sudden revelation you stared at the girl without moving, the whole world spun wildly, in the centre of it she stood. Tray full of food softly prodding you, her face shifting from indifference to clear worry and then to surprise.
>>
>>5139958
You notice the wobble of motion out the corner of your eyes. How did you understand her? You drifted in a sea of murky confusion, the dark encompassing you. Pale hands broke the surf, clutching the tray. Reaching out as well you grasped the hand, anchoring yourself within the storm of your mind. The noises of the living returning. "-off bitch. Get out of here. Now!" Katerina was beside you now, venom dripping from her lips as your hand pinned one of her own to the tray. The Zeta girl quickly back tracked out of the room and down the corridor. The foreign slurry slipped from her lips once more, striking your mind like a weapon. "I forgive you for forgetting me." You felt weak. The pain was gone, replaced with an emptiness you couldn't understand.

Your legs almost gave out, thankfully Katerina led you to the office chair. You didn't know how long had passed, the clicking of fingers in your face brought you back again. The door was closed now, Kat stood in front of you. Her face worried, you felt warm. Gently she rested her hand against your forehead. Lips twisting as she mulled over what to do. The tray sat on your lap. "I'm fine." You mumble, taking a deep breath in god knows how long. She flinched at the suddenness of your words. Her own running out hurried and panicked. "Are you sure? You were out of it for a few minutes…" You nod, feeling strange. But fine. The pain was mostly gone and the questions you needed answered couldn't be done by anyone in the room. Carefully you stand, wobbling a little but managing to make it to your bed, tray in hand. Eating might make you feel better. You were unsure what to do, the girl followed you like a cloud. Your pillows and covers had been heaped onto the end of the bed, clearly from Kat's explosive appearance. You were thankful it hadn't come to trading blows. Solemnly plopping down your mind wondered.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Ask Kat to leave you?
>Talk to Kat?
>Leave the Food?
>Eat the Food?
>Do something else?Write in.
>>
File: what-confused.gif (5.46 MB, 423x498)
5.46 MB
5.46 MB GIF
>>5139879
>>5139891
>>5139934
>>5139946
>Kek
>>
>>5139960
>Thank Kat?
>Ask Kat to leave you?
>Eat the Food?
>>
>thanks kat
>eat the food
>ask her if she ever had memory problems or heard of anyone in the program having them
>>
>>5139958
MC really got triggered because she didn't speak in local language huh. Must be that strong nationalistic views
>>
>>5139960
+1 to >>5139985
Well.....That was a thing. I think.
>>
>>5139958
>thanks kat
>eat the food
>ask her if she ever had memory problems or heard of anyone in the program having them
>>5139994
>MC really got triggered because she didn't speak in local language huh. Must be that strong nationalistic views
Isn't this more of a specific language used for indoctrinating or brainwashing? Looks like kinda spook stuff to me.

Also a maybe a crazy idea: The ones that left the suits. What if they hadn't left, but simply mixed in with the population? Maybe it's an alien language.
>>
>>5140014
Or you know the language of our hometown?
>>
>>5139960
>Ask Kat to leave you, it's been a long day
>Eat the food
>>
>>5139985
+1
>>
aren't emperor class pilots rare ?why would they risk Morty by fucking with his head,I think its trauma not the spooks
>>
>>5140066
Trauma and spooks might be one and the same. Although I think we were already told why that might be. If I remember correctly it was Neural Sequences that were really hard in our department. And it looked like to the point that one's leaving were useless wrecks so it wouldn't surprise me that under the hood we are bearly functioning wreck
>>
alright then our goals so far are
>b bros 4 life with gamma
>tame the kat
>get memory back
Should be easy,fuck this new captcha
>>
>>5140110
And the most important
>destroy the government
>>
File: timthumb.jpg (268 KB, 600x500)
268 KB
268 KB JPG
>>5139985
>>5140014
>>5140022
Giving Kat a weak smile, you decide to eat something. You hadn't eaten since the morning, it was probably not helping. The tray is lined with crisp fries and a round meat patty covered in a dark sauce. In the left corner rested a small packet of grapes and apple slices. In the right corner is a large cookie. A soft bread roll in clear plastic was also there. Your mouth salivating heavily as you fed yourself a few fries, the pangs of hunger from your stomach eclipsing the pain of swallowing and before you knew it you were scarfing down the food. Kat dropped down next to you taking a handful of fries as her own. "Thanks, I froze. I didn't know what to do..." The girl shrugged, breaking off a bit of the meat patty.

You ate as well the food tasting delicious, even though you could tell the quality wasn't especially high. It was a king's feast to you. Against the low drone of the music you sat together eating. Sharing the grapes and slices of apple next. You felt better now that food was in you, the pain partially forgotten as you felt the world harden and become more of reality than a dream. Wanting answers you decide to ask Katerina. You hope she could give you an answer. "Kat, have you ever had or heard of any pilots or candidates suffering from memory problems?" No snide remark or teasing followed. Her voice was steady. "I have heard some things… those exposed to intense interference or direct unfiltered synchronization. That's how all the stories start, the ones that end with a pilot losing their minds. Sinking beyond the Umbral Shell and drowning in the depths of a Phobos. I've never really heard it happening to any candidates, but mental conditioning can cause mental trauma apparently. I've never had any issues personally, or at least don't remember having any issues." You nodded your understanding, the words weighing in your mind.

You remember your training had never seemed intense, but so much was blank. The faces of the others in your unit and their names gone, trickling away as if they had never existed. Reaching for the cookie you snap it in half, handing one half to the girl at your side and keeping the other. Paper caught your eyes, unfurling as you raised the snack. A small note sat there. Kat let out a little noise of surprise before taking a bite. Tentatively you took the paper and opened it fully. Kat gave it a look, snooping at the note. Her face was puzzled. "Strange, she must have written this for you. Can you read it?" Taking a closer look, thin interlocking scratches formed a series of jumbled rows. Underneath the writing is a simple drawing of a dinosaur, one that matched your small keepsake. It was some kind of written language you didn't recognize. But against your own presumed thoughts you began to realise what the note said. "#792. 2am. Ruki" The strange feeling returned, putting the note down, you decided to eat the cookie. It helped you feel better.
>>
>>5140144

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Tell Kat what it said?
>Don't tell Kat?
>Tell her you want some time alone?
>Ask her to stay with you?
>Do something else?write in
>>
>>5140014
I was thinking Japanese or Russian. Due to the waifu nature of the quest and what is surely a tomboy childhood friend trope I lean toward Japanese. Historically there is a lot of overlap between the cultures either way. We were taken at 9 years old, so we have an already established mother tongue, although it's not specified where we are from, and at that age we should remember at least. Definitely some brainwashing here, but realistically (and this is conjectural,) you shouldn't be able to rid a person of their most deepest imprints from childhood, most especially language. Spook shit can't be infallible.

Haruki used one of the most commonly used, earlier learned and simplest phrases in any language. "I'm sorry."

I bet Mortimer isn't even our real name.

Besides who the fuck names their kid Mortimer unless they were planning on naming the mech Rick?
>>
>>5140144
>What do you do, Pilot?
Try to figure out how the fuck it's possible for us to understand the foreign language of read it.
>Tell Kat what it said?
Backup
>Ask her to stay with you?
We should ask more personel question like:
-What kind of stuff do you like to do?
-Why did you decide to come?
-Any specialisation she has?
>Let her also ask questions and try to be honest in answering it.
>>
File: Phobos_Battle.jpg (143 KB, 1200x642)
143 KB
143 KB JPG
>>5140152
Rick and Mortimer Phobos adventures.
Que intro
>>
Well now i know why we hold dearly to our Dino. Od at least one if the possible reasons. If we go and meet her later on, bringing the dino with us could be a good idea.
>>
>>5140172
queue* (English isn't my first language so sorry for the mistakes).
>>
>>5140175
*or
*of


>>5140177
Np
>>
>>5140150
>What do you do, Pilot?
Set alarm for 1:45, then prep for sleep. 2 am, we check out room 792
>Don't tell Kat?
Shouldn't be any need for a tagalong, I think
>Tell Kat she can stick around if she wants, but we're just going to pass out

Problem with her asking us questions is that we just don't really have many answers to give. We ourselves are like a 3-page book, just not very in-depth. That we remember, anyways.
>>
>>5140204
+1
She wants to meet alone or else why hide the message and encrypt it in the first place
>>
Also what's ruki the toy?or a password,also tell kat jokingly that if we don't show up in the morning you know the culprit
>>
>>5140221
Short for Haruki, her name. Probably a nickname someone (Possibly us) gave her. Like how we shortened Katerin
>>
Just forgetting her isn't an excuse for the ass kicking we got bitch almost bit Marty's throat off
>>
>>5140204
support
>>
>>5140204
Sounds like a good plan
>>
>>5140204
+1, let's go get bullied again

>>5140152
Mortimer as a given name is of Norman origin. Since we're living in not!-Futuristic-Tsarist Russia I can absolutely believe that it's not our real name but actually a cover name. Why we'd need a cover name is beyond me though.

Can't wait to meet Super-Tsar Godking Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin later.
>>
File: Someone-Else.jpg (312 KB, 845x1014)
312 KB
312 KB JPG
>>5140204
"I have no idea. It's probably an insult or something." You lied, keeping the notes meaning a secret. You yawned, the day getting to you, the appointment lingering in your mind. Kat began to scroll through more channels. "You can stick around if you want. But I'm gonna turn in." You mumbled, resting the tray on the floor. Not enough strength to bother doing anything more. "Is that the best you're gonna offer me?" Throwing a pillow into place you crawl along the bed, reaching for the clock you sent an alarm. Beyond caring at this point you pulled off your undershirt.

Before finally turning your attention back to the girl, she was leaning backwards across your bed. Kat had begun to unbutton her shorts then paused. She gives you a smirk. "In your fucking dreams you little shit." You felt your face begin to turn red, then your beret hit you. Laughing she stood up, the tv turning off before the remote also hit you. "Don't expect this to be a common occurance, you're lucky I felt sorry for your dumb ass. Next time stay out of any fights you can't win." Switching the light off, you glimpsed her leaving the room. She flipped you the bird before locking the door from inside and slamming it. You were finally alone. The day a weight you couldn't escape, sinking into the bed you were asleep before you knew it.

Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 2 - Children sink into the Starless sea.
https://voca.ro/1ddYX8oxWSyu

The snap and hum was followed by blinding light as your dormitory suddenly burst into life. Chasing away any fragment of sleep you clang onto for dear life. You sat up, the moaning voices and annoyed tones of the other children making any further sleep impossible. The bell helped shake away the last grains of hope from those still seeking safety under their covers. You roll from your bed. Standing you stretch, the small figures around you barely reaching your chest. Ivan and Christopher were already up and about, you hadn't seen them in so long. But you recognized them instantly, moving to call over to them you stopped as a small body stepped up beside you. Mimicking your own stretching. Turning you were faced by a monstrosity, the small child at your side was a walking nightmare, miasma covered it's face. Billowing and peeling away like multi colored strands of smoke, like static the area around his face scrambled about violently.
>>
>>5140416
His words are a garbled mess of tones. The boys waved to it. They headed off together, leaving you. Trailing after the trio you glimpsed all the Theta candidates you once knew, Vlad, Niki and all the others. The entire unit worked their way into the showers and out onto the parade grounds. Watching the youth march in step you hover over the thing that shared your bed. His taint climbed up into the black starless sky above, spiraling up until it was imperceivable a scratch through reality. From the parade ground you kept pace easily as they ran through PT, racing against each other and playing football.

The old staff is familiar even though Churvik was younger you could never forget him. He gave the cursed child a small sweet, the purple wrapper marking it as your favorite kind. Down the hall the procession of children wandered, talking amongst themselves freely. Down into the synchro wards. As you reach the door and begin to cross the fresh hold an alarm sounds. Looking around in confusion it was then you acknowledged the dream. Waking up with a start as you stood in the room alone. Breathing heavy you looked around, even in the gloom you could make out the room you had fallen asleep in, despite how unfamiliar it was. Stumbling over to the alarm clock you slapped it off. The throbbing pain returned as reality did the same. The time for your meeting was approaching.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Take the Dinosaur with you?
>Leave the Dinosaur?
>Go to room 792?
>Go back to bed?
>Do something else?write in
>>
>>5140419
>Take the Dinosaur with you
Prized possession, what if it goes missing?
>Go to room 792
Let's try not to get caught, check those corners- yes, I know there's cameras everywhere probably, but running into other people stalking the halls is still awkward, and something to be avoided.
>>
>>5140419
>>Take the Dinosaur with you
>Go to room 792
>>
>>5140419
Oh goodie, we've been here less than a day and our mind is already collapsing. Good. Trying to wrest control of a Phobos will be interesting.

>Take the Dinosaur with you
Dino is safety.
>Go to room 792
Be a sneaky boi and avoid getting caught.
>>
>>5140416
You dumb stupid nerds. She knew that was an obvious lie and that's shitty. You guys seriously think declining a cig is the principled high ground and then lie to the face of someone who risked getting caught just to "return our beret" AKA check on us cause we were the only ones with the balls to just talk to her in the first place. All that stuff she came to the room for was an obvious attempt at friendship and it's just thrown in her face. Have you never met someone who you thought was mean but it's just a defense mechanism? Textbook.

Now we're gonna visit the person that beat our ass right after she got done defending us, and Katerina *will* figure it out. She's too nosy not to. You guys are rude as fuck.

I'm voting apologize next time we see her. Roleplay Morty's social stuntedness.

>>5140484
>>5140490
>>5140509
+1, it's pretty much the only choice.
>>
>>5140419
>>>Take the Dinosaur with you
>>Go to room 792
>>
>>5140419
>Take the Dinosaur with you?
>Go to room 792?
Really the only choice.
>>
>>5140419
>Take the Dinosaur with you?
>Go to room 792?
They will hear our roar
>>
we should apologize to her in the morning,be blunt about it and tell her we're idiots
>>
Baka no Shinji...
>>
Okay, so we are going to meet the girl that tore our throat open and left us bedridden, without telling or bringing anyone, and we are going to show her our toy dinosaur.
I guess we're retarded.

>Go back to bed.
>>
>>5140484
>>5140490
>>5140509
Standing around in the dark, the reality of the situation was begining to sink in. You were in no condition to fight. But you needed answers. Slipping on your boots you grabbed the dinosaur from on top of the terminal. Being out beyond hours would definitely get you into trouble, so you decided on moving as quickly and quitely as possible. Unlocking the door, the snap of the rod retracting echoed around your room. Each footstep you took sounding loud, but you doubted anyone heard. Gingerly you lean out into the hallway, the long walkway bathed in white light as it was usually. Doing anything to the lights would give you away even more, so with closing the door slowly you began to work your way down the hall. Doors lined either side at intervals, most where unnumbered but after a few you notice #411.

You were unsure who was in it, but you assumed it meant the room was occupied. You still had a few more doors to go. The walk was uneventful, checking your corners as you went, you hadn't spotted any cameras or personel yet. But you were sure they were somewhere. You just had to not give anyone to check the footage for the night. You passed #600 the sound of a television was humming through it. Worried the occupant might exit you increased you pace at the risk of making more noise. Breaking into a soft jog you almost passed the door. The three digits burning into your eyes, you recognized them as Haruki's application number. For aong moment you stood outside the door doing nothing, too afraid to reach out and knock. Frenzied thoughts ran through your mind. This is a bad idea, she could kill you. It's a trap. You smothered them, knocking on the door lightly.

Seconds passed, not a peep came from the room, looking up and down the hall, you were about to worry. But the lock snapping open brought you eyes forward, the door slowly opened, as the tall girl appeared. She stepped aside allowing you entrance. She didn't assault you, so you entered. Slowly, you eyes focused on her. Unsure of what to expect, the lit up room matched your own. The bed was wellmade and a suitcase was in the corner. Your eyes locked a few times, each she would look away embarrassed. Closing the door she hurried over to her seat and sat down, leaving you standing. She was clearly uncomfortable. You felt the same, unsure what to do so you sat on her bed. Despite you first impression of her now she was the polar opposite.
>>
File: 31as6+q6xDL._AC_~2.jpg (4 KB, 182x117)
4 KB
4 KB JPG
>>5141092
You spoke first, breaking the silence. "That language… what is it?" You asked, unsure if it would coax her into talking. Her face scrunched up, clearly not happy by your question. But then a serenity spread across her, like a cold breeze she watched you with distant eyes. The girl had entered her shell, just like you could. Her eyes confessed more than her words. Even through the walls of her mind, you could make out the pain and hurt in her eyes. "That's a bit of a silly question… you were the one who taught it to me." Her alien words stole the breath from your lips, it strangely hurt your heart. She grinned faintly, reminiscing about something you couldn't. But you didn't know why. "I don't remember." You admit, the girl flinching against the words.

Her head dropped shaking from side to side softly as her barrier faltered. You couldn't help feeling sympathy for the girl, whatever you had done. She hadn't forgotten it. "I brought him along though." Pulling your hand from your pocket, you showed the girl the small toy. She sniffled, glancing up. Tears welling in her eyes, she choked out a little sob. You own sullen sadness started to stir. From her own pocket she produced a small red toy, a dinosaur with a large spine along it's back. You recognized it. But you didn't know how. You remember it being bigger in your small hand. It looked tiny. "Look who I've got…" The alien words low but easy to understand in the quiet room. She stood up suddenly, the chair rocketing back and knocking into her desk. You jumped at the explosive movement, before you could really react she was stalking toward you.

You went to stand up, hands raising in an attempt at self defense. Once the beating started you'd make as much as noise as you could. She knocked you back onto the bed, both arms wrapping around you. She shook violently as she pressed her face into your chest. Sobbing loudly into your clothes. Pain throbbed weakly up your side, but against you panicked thoughts your own arms worked around her. Squeezing the crying pilot. "It'll be fine Ruki, it's not you fault. I shouldn't have..." You own tongue easily retraced the words. The sick feeling didn't return this time, the trembling of the girl keeping it at bay. You were unsure why. It scared you. Despite the wet tears soaking your chest you couldn't help feeling warm again. Her voice came softer than you could expect. "Pr-promise me… you won't forget… not again." She sobbed harder, trying to bury herself into your chest as her long legs wrapped around you. You were unsure what else to do, what would even stop you from forgetting. You had already forgotten once. You thought about leaving.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Promise?
>Don't Promise?
>Try and leave?
>Talk to Haruki? Write in.
>Do something else?write in
>>
>>5141093
>Don't Promise?
> Can't give a promise if we don't know that we can keep it.
> But we can promise that if we forget if she extends her hand to us we will be her friend.
>Tattoo could work but idk if we can have one also they hurt allegedly

>Now help us remember.
>>
>>5141093
>Im sorry, ruki, but i dont know the exact reason for my memory loss. Something strange is going on here. Maybe you can help me remember. Im sorry for hurting your feelings but I dont know if its my fault that I forgot. How could I promise not to forget if I dont know whats going on? Please, tell me about our past. I want to know.
>>
>>5141101
+1
>>
>>5141093
One question QM.
What does Mortimer look like?
>>
>>5141093
>Don’t promise
Don’t make a girl a promise, if you know you can’t keep it

>Tell me about me, because I sure as hell can’t
>when did you last see me? Hear about me, even?
Walk backwards in our memory, where is the cutoff point?
Does she remember Churvik, the guard?
>>
File: Peak-theta-candidate.jpg (54 KB, 440x600)
54 KB
54 KB JPG
>>5141149
How I view it
>>
>>5141101
>>5141120
>>5141147
>>5141152
Don't Promise. Writing now.

>>5141149
Morty is Caucasian. Besides that it is pretty much up for debate. Left to blank on purpose.

>>5141165
Canon Morty. Look out ladies.
>>
>>5141204
"I can't do that, Ruki. I can't make a promise that I know I can't keep… I forgot before." The girl whimpered further, her arms and legs wrapping around you even tighter. She tried to speak, but the words were jumbled. Unable to escape through her crying. "I'm sorry Ruki, I don't know what caused my memory loss. I remember things, but I don't understand how." You stopped resisting the girl and just lay there, listening to her sobbing. You could tell she wasn't faking, without a doubt this girl knew you. You knew her too, at one point in your life. You patted her head, unsure how to comfort someone. You didn't exactly have a wealth of knowledge at your disposal. You hoped it would do the trick.

"I'm sorry I hurt you. But I can promise, if I do forget. Just say Howdy and I'm sure we will be friends." The girl snorted, laughing at the idea. Peeling away from your chest the tall girl rubbed her eyes. Towering over you she had you pinned, her eyes staring into your own. Her face softened, lips trembling. "Howdy." a wide grin spread across her flustered rosy cheeks, you nod. Warm tears landing on your face, trying to blink them away the girl buried her face into your shoulder this time. Pain throbbing from your bite wound. "Maybe a tattoo could work? But I've heard they hurt."

You felt her hand climb up along your shoulder and onto your neck. Softly she traced the wound with her finger. "I'm sorry, I hurt you too. But this is better than any tattoo. You better not forget…" Slowly her tears stopped, her breathing calming and for a few minutes you both just lay there. Before long your own worries evaporated, your eyes began to grow heavy as sleep tried to reclaim you. "I need your help to remember." You muttered, trying to keep yourself awake. She stirred, resting her forehead against your neck, her voice husky with sleep. "Anything. I'll do my best." Her enthusiasm surprised you, but she seemed to care enough about you.
>>
>>5141278
Enough to beat you up. "Tell me about me… Tell me about our past." She snuggled against you, a hand finding its way through your hair. "It's longer than when I last saw you… but I like it. It has been one thousand, one hundred and fifty six and a half days since I last saw candidate 391. You. We were the last two. If you can't remember… some units shared facilities. I know Eta and Epsilon had a fancy place. Delta and Alpha too I think. Zeta and Theta, we shared the hole. Theta was all boys and Zeta all girls. Like with Alpha and Delta…" The words seemed to fight against her wishes, she seemed to be trying to keep them back.

"The Sequencing? Do you remember the marathons? Endurance tests. Well we always won. Well I actually won a few times more than you did… but that doesn't matter. Everyone else… they couldn't… compete with us. After they all failed... It was just you and me. You kept me sane. It was so hard, I don't know how you did it. Yuga kept you for herself, but they sent me to… well that doesn't matter. We were pretty close…" The girl trailed off, you could feel the rise and fall. Of her chest, pressing against your own bruised side. She was falling asleep, your own body was ready to give up too. Her warmth. It reminded you of home.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Sleep, you need the rest?
>Return to your room?
>Talk to Haruki? Write in
>Do something else? Write in
>>
>>5141281
>Ask when she learned baking? (Assuming she baked cookies. How else would she get messenge inside the cookies)
>Thank her for the talk?
>Remind her to apologize to Delta bros?
>Wish her good night?
>Kiss forehead?
>Return to your room?
>>
>say good night and that you'll talk more tomorrow
>return to our room and sleep
>>
>>5141301
+1
>>
>>5141281
>Ask when she learned baking? (Assuming she baked cookies. How else would she get messenge inside the cookies).
>Thank her for the talk.
>Remind her to apologize to Delta bros.
>Say we are going to try to befriend with Kat, because just us is going to be too easy to "forget".
>Wish her good night.
>Return to your room
>Sleep like a brick, but set your alarm clock first.
>>5141204
Thanks for answering my question. We can all self insert ourselves into mory (if we all happen to be Caucasian of course)
>>
>>5141315
>Say we are going to try to befriend with Kat, because just us is going to be too easy to "forget".
Idk what you mean by that but sounds like an insult... It's like you are saying friendship just with her is simply forgettable harsh dude
>>
>>5141338
We forgot her before. The more people know eachother, the easier it is to reconnect and remember.
>>
>>5141339
It's not meant as an insult.
>>
>>5141301
+1
Also pretty sure gamma are the bros, delta is the alpha-swarm counterpart
>>
>>5141315
Gamma bros*
>>
>>5141281
>>What do you do, Pilot
Pat her head and return the hug

>>What do you say? Write in.
"Thank you for the talk. We can talk more in the future for avoid to forget ... or just for talking. This is nice. Being near eachother. I have forgot that feeling, i was alone for two years."
"I have made friends with Gamma. They are good guys. Do you think ... you could become friend with them as well ? Or Katerine ? Do you want to wait first ?"
"Do you know why Beta hates me ?"
"About the others ... they probably think we hate eachother. What we should do about that ?"

>Return to your room?
Apologize, but it might be unwise if we are found together. Especially since we should be resting in our room due to wounds.
Though in the future we probably will be able to do so without much issue, since we will be healed and i doubt they need to control our room. After all we just need to present ourselves when they call us.
>>
Also make some noises with the dinosaur before leaving.
It s light hearted and based that s why.
>>
>>5141399
I don't really have strong opinions this time other than this must happen
>>
>>5141399
I will +1 mighty roar
>>
>>5141399
>>5141422
>>5141424
How are you Anons so based? Post coming just now.
>>
>>5141446
Your eyes closed, too comfortable to move. But you couldn't sleep here. "Where did you learn to bake cookies?" You asked, conversation helping to keep you awake. "It's been three years silly… I have picked up a trick or two since we were last together." You could feel her smiling, you smiled too. "I've made friends with Gamma and the Eta candidates. They are good guys. Do you think... You could become friends with them as well? Or would you rather wait first?" You felt her mouth open, but she stammered. Words cautiously coming out. "I did notice… I don't think they'll want to be my friend. Not after our fight. The Eta girl was very angry to see me… But I understand that. I felt angry when I saw her too. I'll apologize to them..." She sounded unsure, clearly hesitant. You couldn't blame her, she hadn't made the best impression.

"I'll talk to them about it." She hugged you tighter, smothering her words as she thanked you. "The other units... They reasonably will think we hate each other. What should we do about that? Beta pretty much hates me too." You were unsure what rumours were going around. But the fight wouldn't help, at least you had gotten an in with most of the other pilots. "I don't care what they think!" she declared, obviously annoyed by the prospect of having to deal with others. You guessed that was the best you'd get from her in the current circumstances. Thoughts slowing you could tell sleep was close to snatching you.

With the dinosaur still in your hand you pinched it between two fingers, letting out a low roar. Your tiny toy strutted it's way up her arm. The girl smiled like a fool, mimicking the noises as she produced her own dinosaur. It clambered along your shoulders biting your neck in the same place as she did. "See now you're hers too." You mimic the act. Your dinosaur biting at her neck, the girl wiggling wildly to escape as you tickled her. Her laughter echoed around the empty room. Eventually the playing fell away, strangely you felt calm. You couldn't remember feeling this way before. A deep pain echoed in the emptiness of your memory.
>>
File: DreamsOfDeimos.jpg (59 KB, 550x511)
59 KB
59 KB JPG
>>5141473
Gently you did your best to slide out from under the girl. Her relaxed muscles allow you to escape. "Where are you going?" She mumbles, not even opening her eyes. "Good Night Ruki, we'll talk more tomorrow." The girl nodded up and down crawling along the bed, replacing you with a pillow. Switching the light off you locked the door and closed it. Back out in the hallway the white light hurt your eyes, half asleep you didn't waste any time heading back, winding your way back the way you had come. Yawning, you rounded a corner without looking first. Walking head first into a girl from Alpha. You recognized her as Lucy.

The girl was in a similar position, half awake and immensely surprised to see someone else out at the hour. She had her boots pinched between the fingers on one hand, her morning hair wild. "I'll keep this a secret if you do the same." She stated flatly, eyes busy looking anywhere but your own. "Of course!" You stated bluntly, taking a wide berth around each other you traded nods and continued on your way. Thankfully you encountered no one else as you opened your door. Collapsing into bed you fell asleep instantly.

You sat up, back in the hole. You were on the parade grounds, resting on one of the benches that sat under cover. Rain was pouring down in the courtyard. It was cold, whispering voices caught your attention. Turning you saw two small figures sitting further along the bench. One was the boy, his face of static growing up to the dark clouds above. Next to him another little monster sat, they were busy talking amongst themselves. The other thing was just as twisted, teeth and eyes towered from the long flowing head. Billowing up just like the boy did. Back and forth they talked in Jumbled static heavy words. Approaching the pair, both turned to face you. Where their mouths should be wobbled like a low audio signal, the noise they produce ringing like an alarm. It stings your mind and pulls you back to the waking world. Your alarm rang again. You couldn't even remember setting the alarm. Slapping the damn thing off quickly.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>See if you can sleep in further?
>Start to get ready for breakfast?
>Dress in full regalia?
>Dress casually?
>Do something else? Write in?
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 2 = 13 (3d6)

This roll is to set a Mind target.

>>5141474
Also roll a 3d6+1 to oppose the target roll. Best of three.

>CURRENT STATS UPDATE

Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown: Prize of the Theta Project.

Current Stats:
Mind: 10
Body: 20
Skill: 31
Smarts: 10
Sanity: 140


Social Standing:
Katerina: 1.5
Alexander: 2.0
Anthony: 2.0
Castilla: 1.0
Yiva: 2.0
Sophia: 2.0
Lucy: 2.5
Brigitta: 3.5
Anastasia: -10.0
Haruki: 20.0
>>
Rolled 3, 6, 2 + 1 = 12 (3d6 + 1)

>>5141479
Random thought, could we have been taken away because Ruki was growing Too dependent on us? Because, uh, she’s a little intense
>>
Rolled 1, 6, 5 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5141474
>Start to get ready for breakfast
>Dress in full regalia
>today is the big day, try to not feel nervous
>feel nervous anyway

Oh boi time to get in the war machine.

>>5141479
>Alexander: 2.0
>Anthony: 2.0
Didn't we get a +5 to both during our interaction with them?
>>
>>5141498
You're correct anon. I updated it on my end. It'll show up next time. They are at 7 each.
>>
>>5141498
+1 to these options
>>
>>5141479
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 2 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5141479
>Start to get ready for breakfast?
I'm not sure about clothes
>>
>>5141498
+1
>>
>>5141498
support

if pain is a problem we can take another pain killer pill

>>5141479
>Haruki: 20.0
Nice
We need to find a way to bring the subject that have made peace to Gamma and Eta. I would prefer if she is, in our same social circle. So she has friends as well.
>>5141495
It s probably for the distance and time. Mortimer was alone for a long time as well, so having some contact with someone close helps him too. If they become a bit more conscious of their growing bodies, they might find a bit embarrassing to be that near.
We will see with time. Even if they seemed to enjoy being close.
But so far of all the projects, they are the less likely to understand something as simple as that. Due to their isolation from the rest of the world and the little human contact and socialization they had in their lives.

>>5141474
Wew what a dream
>>
>>5141498
!!TEST PASSED!!
+10 Sanity Gained

Letting out a sigh you took a pill before the pain began to wake as well. Climbing into the shower you fiddled with the nobs until you manage to get a good flow of warm water. The torrent and fresh smelling soap revitalizing you. The painkiller is doing a lot to help. Searching for a towel you had to clean up a small trail of drips. But before six thirty you were pulling on your boots, your sets of matching uniforms lined out across your bed. A fresh camo uniform covering your body. Giving yourself an examination in the mirror, you were content to wear full regalia. It was an important meeting, one you had a hand in delaying.

Pulling on your beret you were ready to go, making sure you had your toy the world felt right. But you couldn't help feeling nervous, hand trembling. Hovering a good few inches away from the door handle. It was a big day. This was the start of something new. You were really becoming a pilot now, all you had to do was leave the room. Taking a moment you steel yourself. Then you marched out into the hall. Heading towards the recreation room you followed thin blue signs that led out of the personal quarters. the hallways were eerily silent, the snap of your own foot a choir to your arrival. As you traveled through the hallways a door ahead opened. The girl Sophia from the Alpha project appearing, wearing her own uniform. The camouflage pattern a metallic grey. "Hello, feeling any better?" The girl asked, waiting for you to reach her before falling in step with you.

You nodded, adding words calmly. Unsure of what to actually reply with. "I've felt better, but it doesn't hurt too much." Sophia's eyes clearly examining the bruising along your face and the bandage on your neck. "That fight was crazy. The Zeta Candidate is a bloody animal, what did you even do to piss her off… you didn't ask her about her bra size now did you?" The girl laughed, the idea made you embarrassed. At least then you feel it would have been more warranted, but you refrained from judging Haruki too harshly. "It should be sorted now. So hopefully no fights." The pilot raised her eyebrows, her inquisitive eyes trying to deduce any further information from your face.
>>
>>5142240

You ignored the funny looks from the girl. Entering the room you held the door open for Sophia, a few other candidates had already arrived. But the majority weren't there yet. Yiva and Castilla from Alpha had trays in hand and were picking food from a long table that had been organized with metal trays full of breakfast stuff. The long tables fixed with stationary stools lined out, two long tables worth that could accommodate all the pilots. Dr. Yumigawa was already there, beside the long table setting up a projector and fiddling with a touchpad. She gives you a small smile, the others present clearly trying to get a good look at your wounds. The other two beta candidates were already eating. One Delta boy was distracted by his own pad. Sophia headed towards the other alpha girls. You couldn't spot Kat, Ruki or the gamma bros.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Get some food now?
>Get some food later?
>Talk to Dr. Yumigawa? Write in
>Talk to the Beta Candidates? Write in
>Talk to the Delta candidate? Write in
>Talk to the Alpha girls? Write in
>Sit by yourself?
>Sit with someone else? Write in
>>
>>5142241
>What do you do, Pilot?
Sit across the Delta boy
>Get some food now
Chow is an important start of the day.
>Talk to the Delta candidate? Write in
Introduce ourselves with our classic howdy.
Talk about the usual stuff: how was your project, we reply ours ask about phobos classes and more of that stuff.
Aks what he is watching?
>>
>>5142260
>Talk to the Beta Candidates? Write in
All I could propose is to approach other two Beta candidates and see if they are interested in talk while vile witch is not present. And I mean directly ask them if they are interested or we should expect same or similar treatment we got from Anastasia.

+1 Delta is one of two groups we didn't get to known so might as well.
>>
>>5142260
>>5142274
support yeah go for delta
>>
Don't forget about apologizing to kat ,she could tell we lied to her
>>
>>5142535
I know, but she isn't in the room right now.
>>
File: Dimitri.png (224 KB, 525x450)
224 KB
224 KB PNG
>>5142260
The alluring aroma of food called your forward. No matter how tired or nervous you were, your body was famished. Craving protein and fat. Especially after the beating you got. Heading towards the pile of blue serving trays you take one. The doctor gives you a regarding look, but is otherwise busy with her work. The alpha girls busy chatting between themselves, you could feel the eyes from the Beta pair hover on you. You were unphased, content to scoop up a hefty helping of food. Buttered toast, bacon and breakfast sausages. Along with beans and thick helping of blood sausage. They had eggs so you took some and even a medley of pickled vegetables. Satisfied by the hefty weight you made your way to the lunch tables.

The members from every unit were spread across the long table, interested in meeting with the delta boys, you settled on sitting opposite the other pilot. He wore his own uniform, similar to your own in shade, the beret on his head a pale grey, a crossed sword and shield pin sitting on it. He raised his head as you slid on to a stool. "Howdy. I'm the Theta Candidate. Corporal Mortimer.'' The Pilot candidate grins, nodding his head before wagging his finger at you. "Yeah. Yeah, that girl kicked your ass, shit was hilarious. Is she your ex or something? Or did you ask her about her titty size? You got a bad taste my brother." He gestured to his own face and neck, wincing as he did. He had short scruffy blonde hair and tired blue eyes, his gaunt features finishing the image. You had expected as much of a reaction.

Your first impression was either as a weirdo pervert and then getting beaten up. "It was just a misunderstanding. It's sorted out now." The boy tutted, a sly grin on his lips. "So it was a lover's quarrel… I thought as much. Well it's good to meet you Mortimer. I'm Dimitri." Shoveling some food into your mouth you turned your attention onto the thin tablet the boy had in his hand. Images flicker across it as a video plays. "Oh? Yeah pretty new, got it last week right before graduation. Pretty sweet huh." He turned the device your way. It seemed to be a news show feed, Luna plague spread is increasing slowly through restrictions. Tension rising on the barrister coast. And a few other stories that flickered by, one even about uplifted dogs playing chess. "Very nice. They let you own personal effects in Delta? We didn't have the option in Theta."
>>
>>5142810
The dude raised an eyebrow. "Shesh, yeah obviously. But they install restriction software. This thing won't even work outside of personnel floors." He put the thing down returning to his own food. "We specialized in neural sequencing, so the majority fell from the unit. How was Delta? The alpha girls told me you even got to exercise together." The boy replied, mumbling through a Mouthful of food. "Those little minxes, did they tell you how we beat them? We bet we would have more candidates to pass right? We had to put up with a lot of shit from the ministry and they don't even accept that we beat them… if you hear 'em going on about it, 'well we have two prince candidates. You only have one.' Nothing but a bag of cockteases I tell you. They used to put on these little shorts in PT. My man you wouldn't believe the shit they got up to try and win. Anything to distract us. Most of the plebs got dropped down into the ministry…"

He paused, looking up and down the empty table before leaning in and talking in a lower tone. "For some spook shit I bet. We got our own bet running on that too, my money is fucking psionics man. I mean these dudes were about as dense as a brain could get and still function. I have no idea how they even got through the application process… They must have been reading someone's mind. But it doesn't exactly speak well of us lowly knight pilots does it?" The lad chuckled. You enjoyed your food, listening to Dimitri babble on. "Oh man, this girl. She got dropped into a lower selection, but this girl in our unit had a massive ass, her shorts used to ride up in PT. I'm getting fucking hard just thinking about it."

You were impressed by how much he could talk, he looked like he spent all night up talking. "I've been pretty much alone for the last two years, so I haven't exactly been enjoying anything quite like that." The young man winced, placing a hand on his heart. Eyes heavy with empathy. He leaned in closer again, a grin on his lips. "Well shit man, don't waste no time. Break your dick off in the first girl you get a chance to. There is that Eta girl, shit that Zeta pilot could probably grind your hips to dust. I mean shit, you gotta have seen them thighs flying at your ass." You smirked, the boys' unabashed nature was pretty refreshing. Helping you to relax with the stranger. "I'll think about it." You say to pacify the young man, unwilling to commit to any plan just yet. "So you're a Knight Class prospect? I'm aiming to link with an Emperor Class Phobos." The boy let out a long whistle.
>>
File: GrishaDB.jpg (61 KB, 630x960)
61 KB
61 KB JPG
>>5142812

"No wonder Theta only shat out you… that must be some serious interference you can take. I get fucking nosebleeds just looking at one of those blood coffins." You nod humbly, if there was one thing Theta imparted onto you was being able to withstand the rigors of mental strain. Someone else would have most definitely gone mad or died by now. You were only suffering from memory loss and nightmares. "I heard emperor class pilots can feel pleasure and even climax from the intense feedback during combat… imagine all those week long loads saved up floating around in there with you. Good luck." Your mouth dropped at a rather grim possibility. It was bloody news to you. The pilot grinned and continued eating, you had to give your own a second glance.

Wrestling back the tainted ideas that blossomed in your mind. "What sick shit is that psycho trying to sell you Theta? I'll give you the heads up, don't buy it." Another Delta candidate dropped in beside Dimitri, possibly the most handsome man you had ever seen. His face was chiseled from marble, his radiant blonde hair a mix of rebellion and class. The poor bastards in Delta had to compete with him, you wanted to weep at even being in his vicinity. "How are you doing man? I'm Grisha." The new arrival held out his and so you took it, he gave you a hefty shake. "A pleasure. We've just been catching up about our units." Grisha sipped from a disposable cup. "Ahhh guess you never did get around to meeting the boys yesterday. Cas told me a little about you, mostly good. She said you were a little bit weird though. But just look at this fucker, they'll throw anyone into a Phobos these days." Grisha cheerfully nudged Dimitri.

You chuckled. "Fuck off. We. Have an understanding, right Morty?" You replied smoothly between mouthfuls, savoring the filling food. "See? When some psionics bitch makes you shit, piss and cum in your pants and blow your brains out we'll be the ones cleaning out your fucking Phobos." Dimitri violently thrust his hand back and forth between you. "Just listening to you makes me wanna blow my brains out you Prog. Don't drink too much of that shit, today is important… if I can beat Cas' synch rate again I think she'll let me stick my tongue down her throat." The sleepy looking boy shook his head in disgust, producing loud retching noises that drew in everyone's attention. "Have you even offered our sweet baby boy Morty any yet?" Grisha quickly added. "We were busy connecting you Prog. I wasn't just gonna hit him with it out of the blue? Shit! Get off my balls." The odd duo bickered for a little further, they seemed accustomed to it so you focused on your food.
>>
>>5142814
"So. You're an Emperor Class Pilot. You want a cold one? For the nerves." Grisha inquired, Dimitri was already pulling a metallic thermos from below the table. You glanced around, everyone preoccupied as you spotted a few more of the delta and alpha girls walking about. The Grand duke was chatting with Haru. "A cold one?" Both the boy's eyebrows danced up and down as they refrained from sharing anything further with you. The flask squeaked and hissed as Dimitri undid the lid and poured a small portion out, gingerly he handed it to Grisha. The boy blew you a kiss then downed the liquid in one go. He let out a single cough before drinking from his disposable cup. His eyes were watering, his voice breaking as he spoke. "T-that hit all the spots." Dimitri did one himself, barely flinching. Pouring another he slid it before you. "Well then? Let seem them balls Mr. Emperor."

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Drink the Liquid? Body Test.
>Don't drink the Liquid?
>Talk to the Delta boys? Write in
>Do something else? Write in
>>
>>5142818
Mistress didn't train no bitch


>Drink the Liquid? Body Test.
>>
>>5142818
Let’s Not end up straight back in the medbay after leaving it.
Call us a saint, no smokes, no drinks, just painkillers
>Don't drink the Liquid
>>
>>5142818
>Drink the Liquid? Body Test.

But only one.
>>
>>5142818
>Drink the Liquid? Body Test.
>>
>>5142818
>Don't drink the Liquid
Before sequencing test are you mad?
>>
>>5143265
I have to agree with this. Not only are we on painkillers (that don't mix will with totally-not-alcohol), this is also the day where we finally get to interface with our Phobos. It's probably not a good idea to down what is most likely not-Vodka right before something that could potentially kill us.

>>5142818
>Don't drink the Liquid
Tell Dimitri we'll try one afterwards, if we're still alive of course.
>>
>don't drink
Tell them we're already full with painkillers and to save that drink for us after we pass the tests
>>
>>5143199
I will change to
>Don't drink the Liquid?
But we probably should ask if it's ok to drink with medication or what is it.
>>
>>5143034
>>5143265
>>5143272
>>5143333
>>5143354
You gave the liquor a long look before shaking your head. "I can't, I'm on painkillers, don't want to mix them. Not before we start linking." Dimitri kissed his teeth, Grisha pursed his lips clearly dissatisfied. "He's got no balls!" Dimitri declares, a fist pounding the table like a gavel. Sentencing you to your judgement. "He doesn't even have balls…" Grisha followed up by downing the liquid again. "Your girlfriend kicked them balls into a little vagi-" Dimitri went on before freezing, suddenly his attention was down the long table. A shadow rolled over you, you could feel a person hovering behind you. Grisha leans back, drumming his fingers along the table before quickly screwing the thermos shut, his own eyes on you. A tray slid down next to yours, Haruki sat down beside you. You could feel the entire room watching. All holding their breaths for the next fight to break out.

The tall girl was rigid, not even looking your way. Entirely focused on her tray. Dr. Yumigawa had stopped what she was doing, now watching the pair of you. A worried expression poorly hidden. You knew another fight wouldn't break out, trying to remove the attention before everyone had to deal with a Phobos. It would be unfair if you negatively affected them. Calmly, you ate another mouthful. Savouring the food before prodding the girl with your arm. Her own uniform was well ironed and up close you saw her beret properly. It was tan, the pin of a shattered skull. Zeta symbols creasing along one of the many cracks. "You didn't kick my little balls off right?" Ruki turned to watch you, puzzlement and confusion rippled along her brow as her mouth worked but no words escaped.

Her cheeks turned red. "What? No… what?" You grinned patting her own hand with yours while shaking your head to the Delta boys. Her hands felt surprisingly soft. "I've still got them. But today is important. So you should probably save it for after" You tell the boys definitely, Haruki stammering even more in confusion. A little whine escaped her. "So she is your lover then? I believe that makes me about a hundred Grenny richer now." Grisha mulled the words, while other delta boys dropped into seats to either side. He spoke with a new found resolve. "That's actually not a bad idea. That's a pretty great idea. We can have a party after linking. Even Mr. Little babyballs here can come, you can even bring your girlfriend since it was your idea." The other delta boys said nothing, clearly trying to catch up with the sudden revelations. Haruki's face was downcast, you could see her cheeks burning a bright red. The heat radiating off her was surprisingly warm.
>>
>>5143368
"What are these idiots saying!" Ruki asked calmly, clearly slipping into her shell. Trying to seem nonchalant the girl began to nibble at her food, a plate that mirrored yours almost identical. She had a few more eggs than you could manage, but she was a big girl. The new arrivals cut the pair of you looks before whispering to themselves. But Dimitri and Grisha seemed to have moved on. "They're just teasing." You said dismissively, not worried to put much thought into it. You felt the Zeta pilot's knee bump your own as she let out a little harrumph. The tall girl was in the middle of pouting at you when the look dropped and she hastily returned to her food. "Morty…" Alexander greeted you, dropping into a seat at your side, Anthony right next to him. That earned more mumbling and smiles from Delta as everyone focused on the small collection around you.

"Good morning, how are you two feeling?" You replied, giving the boys an examining gaze, one hand raised in defense. Alex seemed relatively fine, besides the black eye and bruising. Tony looked like he was about to fall asleep on his plate. The apprehensive eyebrows you saw spoke enough for the pair. "Just wondering what's going on… you know?" Ruki's knee hit yours again. You nodded sagely. "Yeah, don't worry, everything is fine. We can discuss it later." Grisha leans over, it was impossible to hide any private type conversation within such a short distance. "Yeah! At the party we'll be throwing after linking up. You green boys can come too." Alex seemed even more confused. But it wasn't long before Grisha and Dimitri were rolling out their plans to meet in their rooms and 'rock out with our cocks out.'

Haruki had practically hammered your knee apart by the time they'd gone through their very descriptive tangents about one obscene situation or another. Focusing on your food you listened absentmindedly, it wasn't long before the thermos was out again and the two gamma pilots showed off their balls. Alex managed to get half into his mouth before coughing it down and leaving the rest for Dimitri to finish. Tony almost swallowed it all in his drowsy state, However, he ended up sneezing it all along the table. Dosing the delta boys opposite him with a healthy handful of alcohol and his own snot. He almost died but managed to keep the rest of his fit contained. Before the youth could turn their attention back around to you and Haruki the ruckus and general hum of the room was broken by Dr. Yumigawa clapping her hands. Held high above her head she got everyone's attention.
>>
>>5143369
"Good morning. With everyone finally arriving I will begin the presentation." Everything died down as people shifted focus from their food to the projector. The small machine hummed and quickly generated a wide time table. "First we will start with some preliminary interference and feedback tests. Just to establish our own baseline. But since the linking will be encompassing the next few weeks. PT, and other scheduled training will be halted until you've successful bond." The table switches to a diagram. You recognized it but only vaguely. The Umbral Shell. The Core of every Phobos. The one thing that they all shared, even they varied in styles. A black orb chained through science to a nervous system of alien alloys. "We will be dividing each unit into their respective classes. Veteran pilots will help you grow accustomed to interfacing with the machines. Once you can control it, then we will move onto live exercises and weapons training and maneuvers."

Next appeared images of Phobos in action. A tall emperor class fights atop a burning skyscraper, twin gatling cannons blaring into the sky, and then a smaller prince defends a bridge while missing an arm and a leg. The last was a handful of knights, cutting apart a colossal emperor class with laser weaponry. The crowd all spoke among themselves, almost everyone was excited. Haruki was eating, clearly uninterested. Looking around you finally spot Katerina, she was with the Prince and Grand duke. They were seemingly deep in discussion. The meeting continued as the doctor went over safety procedures and your spare time. You were all allowed free access to the rec room when you weren't actively undergoing training. The lights out order was lifted but breakfast roll call would become a staple before linking would commence. And through a further list of minute rules, you all arrived in the question section. A few hands went up as the doctor was ready to begin answering.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Ask a Question? Write in
>Don't ask?
>Talk to the Delta boys? Write in
>Talk to someone else? Write in
>Do something else? Write in
>>
>>5143373
>Talk to someone else? Write in
>Time to introduce ourselves to Prince and Grand duke.
>>
>>5143373
>Don't ask questions
Enough dialouge and forced interaction. Lets get to the bonding already.
>>
>>5143382
One more group my dude the last one!
>>
>no questions let's do this
Yeah let's do the tests screw the duke and prince the gamma bros are enough for me and we apologise to kat later
>>
>>5143373
>Don't ask questions
I'm sure we'll get some chances later to chat up the other nobility, if they're in the Emperor-class with us. No need to right now go and interrupt Katerina and whatever conversation they're having.

(And maybe I want to put off apologizing to Kat until it's not super public, so we can not get our face pounded in back to back days)
>>
>>5143373
>Don't ask questions
>>
File: machine.jpg (139 KB, 680x375)
139 KB
139 KB JPG
>>5143382
You had no questions, eventually you finished your food as questions were brought up Haru answered them. But nothing of value was gained. With the meeting over, the entire collection of pilots were rounded up. Falling into line you marched after the doctor despite her hesitant pleads for you to be less formal. Leading you down and into another hall you were all divided. Each class of pilot fell in behind the identified handlers. Every group was accompanied by various scientists and security. Dr. Yumigawa led the Emperor candidates. Following the woman you were all led down through the huge building, eventually onto a large service elevator. Large containers sat along the ride with you, with a hiss it stopped at your floor. The testing room was similar to the one of your youth, a collection of long machines with wires trace the ground like veins taped down by caution tape. The strong smell of disinfectant lingered in the ward.

Staffers ran between the machines as large displays showed off readings and charts. The flatline tone of a clean wire hummed in the room. The head staffer, a young blonde woman, wasted no time approaching Haru. Quickly they ordered you to a machine each. You were all the cream of the crop. This was second nature. In near frightening unison all the pilots climbed inside the long machines. The familiar hum and chirp is almost comforting as you lay down on your back. With a speedy countdown you were fed interference, the lowest level barely registering to you. Like static in your teeth. You could taste the rise, feeling the dial turn. You climbed into your shell and it was gone, the world cold and calm. Only your thoughts keep you company, you hoped the tests wouldn't take too long.

Without any hassle you felt the machine vibrate, trembling as it forced sour code into your mind. Injecting the acidic senses. A machine turned off, down the line. You felt the sudden cease. Someone had tapped out. For a moment you wondered who it could be, you doubted it was Haruki. Maybe the Prince or Anastasia. You felt your ears pop as the pressure increased, another dropped out. Your mind was a fortress, these were routine levels you had faced. The pitch snapped a low echoing throb vibrating throughout your body. Within your shell you could withstand plenty more, it was a surprise to you that so many emperor class candidates had dropped out already. Soon it was just you and Haruki remaining. The deafening crackling bouncing off her own shell and resonating into your own. None of the others shared the skill. It was distinctly a gift from Theta and Zeta.
>>
File: Heavy, Ace, Dive.jpg (4.73 MB, 4096x4096)
4.73 MB
4.73 MB JPG
>>5144612
You two managed another few filters until finally you were both being buffered by raw strands. Your walls rumbled but held, Ruki doing the same. A tender tune knocked out towards your own, a tune you could remember. One you had heard Churvik hum almost an age ago, tenderly you attempted to mimic it. Pounding against your own mind walls, the storm outside carries it back to the girl. Then both machines began to decline in intensity until they died down. Outside you received praise, the staffers clearly in shock by your state of being. Both you and Ruki were fine. The other candidates had seen better days, the prince was bleeding from both nostrils. Bloody paper towels halting the flow as medical staff checked his pulse and pupils.

Anastasia and Katerina were both dazed and pale, staffers were holding them steady. You made it seem as if your machines hadn't even been on. Yumigawa was ecstatic, going through the readings from the hefty machines. "Very impressive. Yuga really out did herself didn't she…" You were all given a short break, the girls eventually reviving themselves as the royal stopped leaking his blue blood all over the place. A tense silence hung over you all. You glimpse Ruki attempting to build up the courage to say something, but every time she'd close her mouth. Next came synchronization rates, measuring your mind state. Typical preliminary stuff. You didn't have to try, passing easily on the first attempt you and Ruki achieved 100% the others took a few tries before climbing up to the desired rates.

The afternoon was long as a handful of tests were carried out. All led up to your linking. You and your bloodied band were let into another room lined with chairs. Soon every unit reconvened under the harsh glow of fluorescent tube lights, worn and tired looking faces meander in thin chairs. Minds heavy as apprehension began to grow, the mirth of the morning had worn out. Nerves were raw. Not a word was muttered as the boys and girls were led to separate locker rooms. Lined up were protective suits. Dampeners, considering the state of the other pilots they would need them. Three types of suits lay out for each candidate, they weren't mandatory. The mental strength of a pilot determines what they would wear.
>>
>>5144613
Picking up the thinnest one, the Dive suit material was stretchy and elastic. Very form fitting. Thin metallic plating offered the least amount of defense, but allowed for tighter and intenser controls. A few of the boys began undressing, many of the knights picked the heavy treading armour. The denser metal helmets and well armoured plating designed to help them survive within the Umbral Shell and exterior combat. You were unsure what to wear. The Ace layer Suit seemed to offer a middle ground, armored yet still considered light enough to pilot semi comfortably. You knew some pilots preferred to fight in the nude, but you doubted they'd let you in naked. You'd have to wear something.

>What do Wear, Pilot?

>AstCore High density Heavy Treading Armour.
Limits Phobos Control. +4 to Mind Tests.

>Korrivic Ace Layer Suit.
Allows intermediate Control. Gain +2 to Mind Tests.

>Chevron Deep-Sync Dive Suit.
Easier Phobos Control. -2 to Mind Tests

>Military Grade Boxers.
Direct Phobos Control. -4 to Mind tests

>Sorry about the late reply anons.
>>
>>5144615
I know we dont have good mind stat. I still vote this
>Chevron Deep-Sync Dive Suit
>>
>>5144615
>Chevron Deep-Sync Dive Suit.
>>
>>5144615
Question can we change in the future what suit we wear?
>>
>>5144615
>Chevron Deep-Sync Dive Suit.
>>
>>5144615
>Chevron Deep-Sync Dive Suit.
>>
File: UmbralShellExposed.png (1.29 MB, 1080x2160)
1.29 MB
1.29 MB PNG
>>5144634
>>5144652
>>5144919
>>5144985
The Dive suit would serve you just fine, the other alternatives seem too bulky for the job. You weren't exactly in the middle of a warzone. This was just the initial linking. You felt as if it would just hamper your bonding. But the other pilots were clearly suffering more than you. Having to help each other dress in military equipment. By the time everyone has finished most wore a mix of the Heavy and Ace suits. You alone wore the Dive suit. Earning a few impressed nods from your fellow pilots, stirring a weary hope. you wondered about what was to come. And how many of them would survive it. If you died or went mad, you knew none of them would do any better.

The girls were just as similar, a mix of heavy and Ace suits snuggly gripping their bodies. The one to surprise you was Ruki, wearing her own dive suit. She gave you a smile as your eyes locked, you two clearly stood out in the hierarchy of the candidates. The pathetic march led you through deep hangar bays, loaded with heavy machinery and rows of equipment containers and military hardware. Hard Hat wearing crews rushed or meandered about, loading rigs busily working. You made out a few of the low gravity fighters and even stacks of Phobos rounds. Following your commanders and Yumigawa's staff there was a buzz in the air as you all fell in behind a row of giants constructed of cosmic metal. A mix of dread and fear.

A wide sweeping lineup had been arrayed. Like rows of skinned creatures, the Umbral cores of the Phobos were all on display. You starving children salivate over the inviting things. The true metal beasts hidden below, only their tender insides revealed. The Umbral Shells are held aloft by long bracing frames. A thin metal stairway leading up to the core. The orbs glinted wetly, hungrily reaching out for light. Silvery nerves traced down into the hidden weapons below. Each being similar in design, some were larger, the emperor class shells vastly larger. Some had fewer nerve strands, while others were thinner or thicker. Thick concrete placements kept it aloft, while the knight's nerve clusters were held up by simple chains. Each limited the Phobos in some way or another.
>>
>>5145030
The group clustered around as you began to be fed information, of course all of you knew the process. For your entire training you have spent long nights alone imagining how this would transpire. You had thought it would have been more heroic. You have to link in a rush to save your friends, like in a novel. The staff dictated a small refresher for everyone before you jump into the violent sea to swim. With the basics covered many of the crew and commanders appeared. A few pilots stood out among them, scarred men and women. Yuga watched you intently, for the entire time you ever knew her this was the first to witness her placid and distant eyes change. You swore a thin smile even plastered her lips. The commanders talked among themselves, clear to be observers or take little part in helping their trainees.

Soon the time arrived, the staff dressed in thicker gear than the heavy suit appeared. Dr. Yumigawa called out for the first tester to apply. Or they'd start in alphabetical order. The hesitation kept any from volunteering to be first. There was a wide selection of Emperor class Phobos to pick from. A slim and lanky one was on the far left, it's thin frame would limit the amount of heavy weaponry it could carry. But it would be far more agile than any emperor class Phobos had any right to be. To the right of it was a drastic difference, the core was almost twice as large. The numerous nerves capable of interfacing with multiple weapon systems at the same time. Such a heavy weight would make it a slow behemoth, a battleship on land. In the center sat a mix of the two, the classic emperor class. It's armor is sharp and sleek. The majority of the machines are hidden under tarp.

The Phobos would work well in most situations, while not outgunning plenty of weapon platforms it would be faster than any of the largest kinds. Stepping forward the pilots quickly parted, not wanting to be accidentally chosen first. Ruki followed after you. The doctor waved you both over as the armored people crowded around you. You knew every Phobos was unique. They would help elaborate further. The sub designs, obviously not man made. But man had the hand in naming them. Three stood out to you. The men listed off the weapon and armor possibilities, of course they weren't sure. You knew that. No one had linked with any yet.

>What will you Link with, Pilot?
>>
File: Rapier-Type.jpg (2.86 MB, 4096x4096)
2.86 MB
2.86 MB JPG
>>5145031
>The Rapier-Type.
A wide selection of slim models. Agility is key, despite the strange designs they often possess great effectiveness. Especially in tandem with tougher Phobos. Specialized in long distance engagements and reconnaissance.
>>
File: Sabre-Type.jpg (3.37 MB, 4096x4096)
3.37 MB
3.37 MB JPG
>>5145031
>The Sabre-Type.
A more classical approach. More human in design the key was Jack of all trades while mastering none. Possible to work in almost any situation, the majority of Phobos forces were made up of sturdy designs. Probably because they were the highest amount discovered.
>>
File: Longsword-Type.jpg (4.41 MB, 4096x4096)
4.41 MB
4.41 MB JPG
>>5145031
>The Longsword-Type.
The weapon rig. Bulk and hefty, they deal out devastating variety in firepower while sacrificing movement. Carrying thick up armoured plating to redeem and ensure longevity in the most brutal of engagements.
>>
>>5144822
Yes this is just for your intial linking attempt.

I'll keep this vote up for the majority of the day. Since it is an important vote.

However Morty's Phobos design is still very flexible, the images are just to benchmark what to expect from each type.

Linking will follow this vote, along with tests and rolling.
>>
>>5145033
>The Sabre-Type.
Middle of the road works for m

>>5145036
Good to know.
>>
>>5145031
>What will you Link with, Pilot?
>The Longsword-Type
With Bonuses to weapon skill and body, Mortimer getting in the bulky weapon carrier makes the most sense.
>>
>>5145032
>The Rapier-Type.
>>
>>5145032
>Rapier type
Speed and range can dictate the rules of engagement, we can be the long range sniper carrier. I’d rather not be tied down to a slow battleship
>>
>>5145031
>The Longsword-Type
>>
>>5145048
I will switch to
>The Rapier-Type.

To my understanding we already will be heavy hitting mobility and range sound more important. I still prefer Sabre good mix of mobility and firepower but If I NEED to pick it would be mobility.
>>
>>5145031
>Longsword
Gimme the dakka
>>
>rapier
Mort highest stats are body and skill
>>
>>5145032
>The rapier type
>>
>>5145032
Let's AC4 this shit.
>>
>>5145335
> rapier class
>>
It's a shame that anons don't appreciate versatility of the Saber class. And in time when player base looks like it's split down the middle I will take up the mantle and try to make a case for it. Look versatility gives us options not only strategic but also narrative. You friend is in tough spot and getting fucked? Good luck using Rapier to take a shot for him. Need to reposition to smoke enemy out of cover? Good luck with that fat ass Longsword. In both of this situations Saber gets you covered. He won't execute it perfectly but He. Can. Do. It. QM said it. This is really important choice. One that most likely will decide how our playstyle will look for the rest of the quest . So I would implore other anons to meet down the middle so we all can enjoy it equally. Vote Saber!

Thank you for listening to my TED talk
>>
>>5145034
>The Longsword-Type

Rapier sounds gay as fuck.
>>
>>5145034
>there are people in this thread who wants to be a dexfag camper sniper that can't take a hit instead of being a walking battlestation with fuckhuge guns and enough armor to tank any damage sent at us and our battle brothers as we stride maginificently through the battlefield obliterating everything with our massive girth
We're an Emperor-class candidate, not some fucking dainty ballerina. Our Phobos have to look the part of a weapon of war. Everything else is unacceptable.

>The Longsword-Type
>>
>>5145611
Fair enough. You convinced me to change my vote from
>>5145322
To
>longsword
>>
>>5145611
This is the way
>>
Already voted, but I just think Rapier will lead to more interesting fights and planning.

Longsword might just result in optimal strat 90% of time being Present armor, proceed to statcheck weapons against enemy targets. Being something lighter and faster lets us go for disengage plays, flanking, and trying to stack the deck in our favor in more ways.
Also, melee kills on smaller Phobos. I don't see that happening on a slow AF Longsword
>>
>Rapier-Type
>>
>>5145034
>>The Longsword-Type
seems the vote is either towards rapier or longsword. Though I would say the Sabre flexibility could allow for multiple different types of missions, which is cool to me.
But at the end we are still using an emperor class Phobos, so I imagine neither of the 3 types is "small" in comparison to smaller Phobos classes. Since is an emperor, it will be always a center piece unit.

I find interesting that they send the Rapier type out for those kinds of missions, since is still an emperor class (which is big regardless in comparison to other Phobos from what I understand). I would have thought smaller classes of Phobos like Knights would fit better for that.
If not normal vehicles, humans or drone scouts.
>>
>>5145033
>The Sabre-Type.
>>
>>5145032
>The Rapier-Type.

>>5145099
>Dis
>>
File: Spoiler Image (3.87 MB, 600x480)
3.87 MB
3.87 MB GIF
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>5145049
>>5145141
>>5145259
>>5145596
>>5145611
>>5145647
>>5145775
7

>>5145080
>>5145099
>>5145221
>>5145303
>>5145337
>>5145736
>>5146091
7

Gonna close. Will rolls for it. Let the Mecha Gods decide!

>Rapier is 1
>Longsword is 2

Will have an update in a while. Maybe around lunch
>>
>>5146138
Dice gods have spoken.
>>
>>5146138
I yield.
>>
File: black-water.gif (1.13 MB, 498x498)
1.13 MB
1.13 MB GIF
>>5146138
You settle on the Rapier type. It's long sleek body hidden under tightly coiled tarping. All that stood out was the Umbral Core, staring up at the orb of night you swore it stared back. Pins and needles crawled down your body as you basked in it's alien glory. With a little apprehension you gave the crew your choice, the audience chatted among themselves. Ruki had picked a Longsword-Type. It's body is wider but shorter than your own. But that was all you could make out of the restrained monster. Sharing the news over the radio they led you towards a rickety looking grated staircase. The crew instructed for you to advance, waiting at the base, it was as far as they'd go. It was all on you now, climbing the thin stairs you felt your world slip away with each step, the Core reeling you in like some trophy.

A mind to call it's own, a mind it could break on a whim. You climbed into your Shell. Years of training about to pay off, unfortunately they hadn't trained you for heights. The stairway rocked with each step, far from tipping over. But it was very concerning. The worrying kept you mind off the ascent, soon you were face to face with the dark spot in reality. On the small platform you stood, hand tightly gripping the railing for support. You reach out, fingers dipping into the orb. Sinking below the black surface, ripples rolling along it's dark body. It was cold, like climbing into water. A void that churned between your fingers. Following the instructions you had been given you tightly gripped the twisting waters, the liquid giving way and turning solid in your grip. No matter how many eyes were on you, you knew you were alone now.

Hefting yourself up with a kick off the ground you got a leg into it. Sinking upto your ankle before solidifying. Flexing up pulled your entire body into the abyss, releasing your grip as you felt the chilling embrace. You fell. For an eternity you fell. You couldn't tell if your eyes were opened or closed. Unsure if your mind had broken or not you spun there in the deep. You could move your arms and legs, but felt nothing within reach. You were unsure what was up and what was down. Only your thoughts kept you company, the low nagging weeping fool that cursed you for climbing into the monster. You drove the weakness away. You had to do something. You wouldn't lose here. Centering yourself you began to sequence, your mind tenderly flicking through codes memorized. Like the dials on a lock, you were unsure if it would work. But you continue, you feel your hair grow long, turn grey and fall out. Your nails stretch far, scraping along the interior of the shell, curling and coiling like the horns of some ageless goat. The body of a young man shriveling and eroding like a stone in caught by a raging river. But your mind. Your Shell. It stood. And finally. After so long, even after you had forgotten your name. The world began to wake.
>>
File: FEWg.gif (444 KB, 250x250)
444 KB
444 KB GIF
>>5146229
The nothing of blackness became grey and from there the numbers and colours returned. Along with your Name.

"Mortimer. Hah, A Fool's name. A Tool's name."

The Sea of Death? The Drowning Boy!

"DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH"

The voices. Your voices. You ignored them, your eyes opening to meet blinding light, the light of existence. A slow throb echoed through the light, the hissing snap of static. The Communication systems latch on, sudden vibrations feed into your orb. Shifting into words. "Pilot. Status? Over." It was Mistress Yuga. You had your grip now, the colours twist into a kaleidoscope, the Umbral Core hummed. Finally responding to your own eyes opening. The Core did the same. Tenderly it reached into the temporary observer module. And the hanger bay surrounded you. "Mistress, Visual uplink complete. I can see you all. Over." Your own vibrations are accepted by the comms unit and fired back out to the small figures standing below you. Looking around you tower over the scenery, down the colossal space you could make out people at work.

With sight you floated comfortable in the air, rolling and flipping. Your body is given free rein within the Umbral Core, vision staying stationary, reacting only to the urging of your mind. Snapping in and out of ranges makes you feel a little motion sick. Faces became clear and perfectly framed, you tested the eyes further. Reading out hard hat sign regulations. Rereading no smoking again and again as you hunted for sign after sign. You turned, watching the faces of other pilots, they all looked in awe up at the orb. "Pilot, Prepare for Primary Linking. Good luck Morty. Over." The words slashed at you, a mix of sympathy and what you might mistake for affection inflected the frequency.

Yuga's lips trembled, you could see the anguish on her face. Others might have missed it, a tick of nervousness or trepidation. But you. You had watched her face for years, you thought nothing could affect her so much. Especially nothing to do with you. You felt the snap and grind, untethered the Phobos began to reclaim you, taking you within itself. "DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH" "DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH" "DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH DEATH"

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE

Roll 3d6-1 Mind Test.
Target is: 13
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 6, 2, 6 + 1 = 15 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146230
Damn this is going to be a tough roll
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 5 + 1 = 12 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146230
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
Memento mori Mortimer
>>
>>5146232
We did it! Good roll. I wonder if better Control at connection will have any future influence.
>>
Rolled 6, 2, 5 = 13 (3d6)

>>5146230
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>>
Rolled 6, 4, 6 + 1 = 17 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146230
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>>
Insert LIVE.png
I hope we someday get to shout this hand of mine is burning
>>
Ok, I’m shit at rolling dice because I cannot figure out how to subtract numbers apparently
If we did get pass the first test, tho, we get to watch everyone else’s brains melt and their screaming over the radio
>>
>>5146264
>hearing that beta bitch Anastasia screams of pain
anon stop I can only get so erect
>>
Rolled 1, 6, 1 - 1 = 7 (3d6 - 1)

>>5146276
Hate boner for Anastasia is strong within this one.
>>5146264
I think like this? dice+3d6+-1 Testing
>>
Rolled 2, 2, 5 - 1 = 8 (3d6 - 1)

test
>>
>>5146279
Thanks Anon I'll keep that for the future posts. But y'all passed. Writing now. More rolls will be required.
>>
>>5146232
Target:13
14, 11, 12
!!TEST SUCCESS!!

Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 3 - Alien thoughts within an Alien Body.
https://voca.ro/17FAF80kSkDB

The void howled a maddening mockery of language echoed through you. Into the center of your very soul, staining you forever. Tainting. You were a part of it now. It was a part of you. Forever bound, linked as one. The comms unit was snapped away along with your sight as the Phobos consumed you completely. The exterior equipment falling away. You were alone. That was a lie, you would never be alone. Not any more.

Mortimer opened his eyes, the swirling miasma of the Umbral Core replaced, now he stood alone, encompassed by a vast and scarred landscape. Twisted and broken metallic joints were scattered wildly around like crumbling gravestones. He blinked, confusion and shock surrounding him like an oppressive figure. A thing he didn't remember, something that was stolen from him. "I lvoe yuo. I lvoe you so mhcu. You wree the olny tnihg taht cluod mkae me selim, the olny one I cluod ttsur. het byo who sevad me. Il'l nveer fegrot yuo. I'm syrro. I wsih I cluod gvie you waht you ndee. I wsih I cluod gvie you the chrdlien you deresve but I w'not be leivang here. I'm syrro. I'm so syrro. Psaele d'not fegrot me. Plsaee. Ayawls hvae me wtih yuo. Try not to wyrro. Il'l be waihctng oevr yuo. And wehn i'ts yuor tnru. Il'l be hree wanitig. So hvae no faer my levo. Daerm of the day we wlil be tohteger agnia." The wind whispered nonsense and the dead world swirled, the core reaching deeper into his mind. Together. Mixing and scrambling their nerves traces one another. The dead stealing life that was not its own.

Mortimer opened his eyes, pain lancing through him as the very world roared. Wind whipped passed him, flogging his weak body while she screams in pain. He can feel her, but couldn't reach her in time. The white shards of snow, scolding his iris. Trying to freeze his eyes. The snow crunching under his feet rattled like the laughter of the mad. Their words harass him. "You know the end. Hope is an illusion." Ignoring the words he pressed on, the Phobos heeded his command. His eyes burned with hatred. Blinded by rage. She wasn't far. He could still make it. If only he could just see, Mortimer howled a ragged and beast-like call. He blinked, the storm becoming even more distinct as the darkness swept in.
>>
File: shinji-evangelion.gif (2.4 MB, 498x360)
2.4 MB
2.4 MB GIF
>>5146339
Mortimer opened his eyes. You. You opened your eyes. You were back there. The Village. The Hole. But you weren't. Not really.


H̵̙̳̟̓̓͒̃́͝e̷̢̛̘͍̦̪̽̓̃͌̚͝͝ļ̸̡̜̪̳͍̱̄͂̿̑̒l̵̨̨̠̟͈͈͑̋̓̆̉́͑Ḩ̸̳̼͖̠̠́͊̊͌̔͐͐͛o̶̺̟̼̓̆̏̒̇̊͝m̸͚̠̣̝̗̝͓͊̒̿̈́͛̑́͋e̶̜̕H̵̡͕̳̱͑̊ę̴̹̺̑́̓́͐̑l̸͇̥̮͍̬̖̖̙̓̑ļ̷̪̭̬̂́̈H̴̩̞̣̻͉̜̟̣̃͗̑̈͛͝ö̸͍́̊̚͝m̴̤̜͆̈͒ȩ̴͎̗̫̝̦̯͑͒̀̈́̾̿̃H̵͖͗̽̄͐̽̀̚͝e̵̢̧̮̘̬̻͇͑̌͗̇͘̕ļ̴̣͍͇̫̗̭̈͊̔̒l̷̖̤̟͚̖̈͗

Į̸͉̮̬̘̿̑͛̍͠͝Ķ̴͔̐̇̓͑̕͠U̸̢̼̯̞̫͐͛͒R̷̨̡͕̟͓̜̎͐̇Ą̶̱͇̥̈́H̷̯̟́ͅ

Į̸͉̮̬̘̿̑͛̍͠͝Ķ̴͔̐̇̓͑̕͠U̸̢̼̯̞̫͐͛͒R̷̨̡͕̟͓̜̎͐̇Ą̶̱͇̥̈́H̷̯̟́ͅ

She was there. But she wasn't. Was she ever really there? Whatever this was, it wasn't you. You flexed, your mind a shield. The slime of the Core slipping away, the Umbral rust flaking away. You had escaped, whatever it was. A trap, an accident or your own self sabotage. You rendered yourself onto the core once more. Synapses sizzling. Floating within the Shell. You feel the tender tap and bump of the Phobos finally sealing shut, you feel your body shudder. Flesh held tightly by concrete and metal bindings.

Flexing again you jolted, your floating body jostled from side to side. The restraints pinning you in place, pinching you painfully. Then the hum of an extraction unit primed, you felt the switch flip and ready itself. An electrical charge growing, barely a foot away from the core. From yourself. Tasting the fear in the air, the fumes from exhausts and the grease on bolts. The vibrations of the internal comm unit starts up. By reflex you open your eyes, the internal observer module snapping into night vision and back to normal as the tarp lets only thin strands of light through. "Pilot. Status? Over."

You couldn't see her, but Yuga's voice became more stained. Breathing deeply you sat within your shell safe. Your reply escaped happier than you had expected, you failed to keep cool and collected. Instinctively routing to your external audio system and the inter-comm unit together. "Mistress! Primary Linking is Successful. Ready for Secondary Linking. Can you get this tarp off, I can't see. Over" You heard her let out a sigh of relief at your voice, snippets of background conversation slipping into your core. Yumigawa sounded very happy.
>>
>>5146340
"Pilot. Secondary Linking will commence momentarily. The tarp will be removed after. Over." As much as you wished to move your body, you could feel the core change. Pressure building as the voices returned volatile and hateful. No matter how rabid, they were quieter. You felt safe. Then the current snatched at you, slithering up and around your ankles to pull you further down. Through the shell, deeper and deeper. Beyond the safety of the Umbral Core. From your reality and into the Phobos' own. You enter the Second Layer. Ensnared by the CEREBRAL WEEDS. "DIVE DIVE DIVE DIVE DIVE DIVE DIVE DIVE" "DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN" "MORT MORT MORT MORT MORT MORT MORT MORT"

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE
>LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE LIVE

Roll dice+3d6+-1 Mind Test.
Target is: 15
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 5, 1, 5 - 1 = 10 (3d6 - 1)

>>5146342
Now THIS will be a real bitch of a roll unless some madman rolls high on every dice
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 6 - 1 = 13 (3d6 - 1)

>>5146342
Sometimes all we need is a little bit of faith
>>
Rolled 4, 1, 6 - 1 = 10 (3d6 - 1)

>>5146342
Time for some sanity damage
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

Don't mind me. Just rolling this.
>>
File: Gd6HUvl.gif (1.33 MB, 516x465)
1.33 MB
1.33 MB GIF
>>5146375
>>
>>5146384
H-he could just be rolling sanity damage, which in that case it's a very good roll
>>
>>5146375
Target: 15
10, 13, 10
!!TEST FAILURE!!
!!-2 Sanity!!

You drown in M̸̧̱͇͎͚̂̋͆͋͛̌̽͒̈̆́̽̀͊̔̈́́̕͝À̵̧̛̛̝̝̯̗̞̮̜̯͚̼̘͊͆̈́̊̈́̂̃͆̉͑͂̓́̎̃̓̍̎̔̽̉̋̈́̿͗͒͆́͒̍́̍̕͘̕͝D̵̡̛̪̞̠̺͔͕͛͐̋̈́̐̀͝N̸̢̠̯̺̖͓̻̜͎̰̮͚̗̜̹͇̜̞͇̗̟̣̠͔͈̬̠̮̪̻̦̠̜̞̘͕̭̱̯͔̗̮̖̬͉̮̟̬̎̇̔͋̾͑͗̌͆̈́͂͌͂́́͒̈́̀͆̊̐̊̄̀̽͒͘͘̚̕͜͜͝͠Ë̸̡̡̨̨̡̛̛͎̟̣̩̞̭͈̹̞͍̪̣̹̝̖͖̻̝̜͇̖͇̘̹͈̬̬̮̱̣̙͙̼̩͊̃̒͑̐͋̍̈́̏͗̊̍̆̎̔̽̔́͒̊͐̓̈́̓̏͘̕̕̕͘͠͠S̶̡͚̖̑̎̑̾̈́̀͂͋̉͒̎̍͑͛̉̆̈́̈́̎̍̈́͘͘̚͝͝͝S̴̢̧̧̡̡̡̡̟̻̦̪̜̬̮̪̼͔̦̳̤̖͕̗̟̟͔̯̗͔͍̻̖̼̰̳̖̤͓̯̺̝̱̠̗̣̞͍̘͖̳̞̼͔̃̽͑́̋̿̄͒͋͛̆̈̾̈̈́̈́̋̄̏͗̿̃̀́̄̆͗́͊̚͠ͅ. Unprepared your body spasming, shell worthless. As the liquid forces its way into your lungs. As the coiling reeds tear into your flesh. The dark water turning red and hot. The world turned red. She was dying in you arms, again, what was left of her anyway. She tried to speak, her face a shattered mess. Even unlinked the external systems moaned in pain. In the lowest whisper possible she went on and on. You died there. Her words damning you for all eternity. If only you had saved her. If only you had been in her place. You stay with her, unwilling to let go. She had loved you.
>>
>>5146405
Even after the tears stop and the rage boils over. Foaming at the mouth like a rabid creature you clutch the corpse. The M̸̧̱͇͎͚̂̋͆͋͛̌̽͒̈̆́̽̀͊̔̈́́̕͝À̵̧̛̛̝̝̯̗̞̮̜̯͚̼̘͊͆̈́̊̈́̂̃͆̉͑͂̓́̎̃̓̍̎̔̽̉̋̈́̿͗͒͆́͒̍́̍̕͘̕͝D̵̡̛̪̞̠̺͔͕͛͐̋̈́̐̀͝N̸̢̠̯̺̖͓̻̜͎̰̮͚̗̜̹͇̜̞͇̗̟̣̠͔͈̬̠̮̪̻̦̠̜̞̘͕̭̱̯͔̗̮̖̬͉̮̟̬̎̇̔͋̾͑͗̌͆̈́͂͌͂́́͒̈́̀͆̊̐̊̄̀̽͒͘͘̚̕͜͜͝͠Ë̸̡̡̨̨̡̛̛͎̟̣̩̞̭͈̹̞͍̪̣̹̝̖͖̻̝̜͇̖͇̘̹͈̬̬̮̱̣̙͙̼̩͊̃̒͑̐͋̍̈́̏͗̊̍̆̎̔̽̔́͒̊͐̓̈́̓̏͘̕̕̕͘͠͠S̶̡͚̖̑̎̑̾̈́̀͂͋̉͒̎̍͑͛̉̆̈́̈́̎̍̈́͘͘̚͝͝͝S̴̢̧̧̡̡̡̡̟̻̦̪̜̬̮̪̼͔̦̳̤̖͕̗̟̟͔̯̗͔͍̻̖̼̰̳̖̤͓̯̺̝̱̠̗̣̞͍̘͖̳̞̼͔̃̽͑́̋̿̄͒͋͛̆̈̾̈̈́̈́̋̄̏͗̿̃̀́̄̆͗́͊̚͠ͅ not enough to save you from the anguish within. The white embers of failure. You had failed, you felt her life ebb away and did nothing. The Phobos bucked, you felt the restraints cut into you. The rage remains, it burned. You burned. The dark water boiling as you fought for freedom. Even if it cost you each leg you would be free. Even if you had to gnaw each arm off. You would escape. You wouldn't drown. You wouldn't die. For her. For you. Somewhere. Somewhere far a voice called out. It wasn't her. She was dead. She was gone. Your master calls. She beckons. You were no human. You were an animal. A lowly dog to obey. Run to you master dog. She called to you from further below, taunting you almost. "Pilot. Status? Over."

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
>DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN
>FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
>DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN DROWN

Roll a nice flat dice+3d6 Mind Test.
Target is: 17
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 3, 4, 2 = 9 (3d6)

>>5146410
>FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT

RNGesus, I have never prayed to you before...
>>
Rolled 5, 2, 2 = 9 (3d6)

>>5146410
COME ON LADS WE JUST NEED THREE SIXES OR TWO SIXES AND A FIVE
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 6 = 10 (3d6)

>>5146410
>FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT
Fight over Drown. NEVER GIVE UP
>>
>>5146414
>>5146415
>>5146418

Don't worry guys, we didn't need to be stable anyway.

I'm sure our memory will be fine.
>>
>>5146410
I wonder how many will die if this shit is this hard and that mistress is sus
>>
File: 1641584393711.jpg (38 KB, 606x507)
38 KB
38 KB JPG
>>5146426
Depends, Emperor-class seems to be the most 'difficult', though I wouldn't be shocked if some people already got mindfucked
Who the fuck needs SANITY anyway
>>
Rolled 5, 3 = 8 (2d20)

Woah baby.
>>
>>5146405
>!!-2 Sanity!!
huh only -2 not so bad
>>
>>5146435
>>5146375
Nice to see we've been really lucky, we've only lost like 10 sanity in total.
>>
>>5146435
Target: 17
9, 9, 10
!!TEST FAILURE!!
!!-8 Sanity!!

You fight and you fight. A feverish beast tearing itself apart on barbed tendrils. Soon there was more of you left within the second Layer's grasp then on your own bones. You strength was gone. You had fought yourself deeper and deeper for nothing. The voice unreachable. Life leaking from your form, it had cost you an arm and a leg. The other two were beyond saving. Nothing remained of the dive suit, it had evaporated as your flesh boiled in hatred. Half dead you floundered in a sea of your own crimson failure.
The trio snicker at you, but eventually shift into an orchestra of comedy.

"HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA" "HEHE HEHE HEHE HEHE HEHE HEHE HEHE HEHE" "KEKE KEKE KEKE KEKE KEKE KEKE KEKE KEKE"

You groan. Hopeless. You had let her die. You were drowning. You couldn't do anything. The madness nipping at your mind, a thousand voices whispering at once. None that you even remotely recognized. "He has yuor esey, holufeply he has my lkcu" "otsp tihs nwo. You w'not be foevigrn" "lohd my hnad wehn I dei. O?k" "rruHy up and end tihs aldaery" "it is all yuor fatlu." "l'Il klil you fitsr." "aWs it wtroh i?t" "Polit" You try to build your shell back. Focusing on becoming whole, but the bricks you grasp crumble to sand in your hands. Through the storm of words some break through.
>>
>>5146464
Grasping at them they hold your last smidge of reality together. You barely recognized them.
"391! Morty what is your status? Over." Morty? You? Who were you? Just a number? When was this? Wasn't she dead? Your mind. Our Mind. Woof woof doggy. "This is insane. Eject him now!" The words called you deeper. The current trying to carry you back into the blender. You were so close. You had to fight.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Fight
>Drown already idiot.
>DROWN Dog.
>"Don't give up my Love"

Roll a dice+3d6+1 Mind Test.
Target is:15
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 6 + 1 = 11 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146466
>"Don't give up my Love"
>>
Rolled 4, 1, 3 + 1 = 9 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146466
Sanity is for the weak
>Fight
>>
Rolled 4, 4, 2 + 1 = 11 (3d6 + 1)

>>5146466
Witness me
>fight
>>
>>5146489
Well fuck me I guess
>>
>>5146468
>>5146473
>>5146489
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm... Should have picked thicker suit :(
>>
TUMBLING DOWN
>>
>>5146493
Suit's gone at this point, anyways, else we'd be sitting on that -1 modifier still
>>
Rolled 19, 14, 18, 3 = 54 (4d20)

>>5146495
It all returns to nothing
I just keep letting me down
Letting me down, letting me down
>>
>>5146512
an oof
>>
File: Fight.jpg (6 KB, 307x164)
6 KB
6 KB JPG
>>5146512
Target: 15
11, 9, 11
!!TEST FAILURE!!
!!-54 Sanity!!

The current was too strong, your limbs that remained were far too weak. You were too weak. You can only scream as the tendrils rip into you once more. Tearing apart the little of you that remained. You whispered a silent apology as it took you.

The Emperor Class Phobos roared, projecting the screams of Mortimer throughout the hanger bay. The external systems blaring the boy's ragged and animalistic howls. Crews rushed around, most trying to escape as a siren began to sound. The senior pilots rushed off. The pilot's Mistress screams into the radio within her hands. The metal monster busy thrashing from side to side so violently the restraints squealed and moaned. "Don't give in! Mortimer! Fighting against it!" She stops, her brow furrowing. The other commanders were shouting and commanding her to eject the pilot. She said nothing her mind a storm of ideas. The Gamma Commander attempted to snatch the detonator from her. The old man moved too slowly, his body used to a Phobos. Delivering a beastly headbutting she back tracked. Further away from them. Radio to her lips. She cursed the boy, she hadn't wanted to show one of her trump cards so early. It was now or never. The old bastard wouldn't give her another chance, the senior pilots were already linking up. As the crowd of candidates evacuate the area she speaks. A tongue none present could understand.

" "

The word seared into you mind. A bolt of pain that eclipsed all else. You heart broke. It was enough to bring you back together. You woke. The pain. It was gone, even as you watched the miniscule remaining strands of your mind being rendered apart. You felt nothing. You felt something. Pulling you. Further. Through the current. You were truly unburdened now. The hate, the madness. You thought love had saved you. But it wasn't love. Oh no it was something far worse. It was duty, one that wouldn't allow you to die. A burden that wouldn't allow you to go insane. The curse of loneliness. The voices were gone, all of them. Only one remained. Your Mistress. She orders you. Like she always has. "Fight Boy. Now!" She howls it at you, seeped in disgust and loathing. They drive you on.

Roll a dice+3d6+4 Mind Test.
Target is:13
Best of three will be used.

>What do you do, Doggy?
>What do you say? No one cares anyway.

>Do as you're told.
>What a good boy.
>Now roll over.
>Play dead!
>>
Rolled 1, 1, 2 + 4 = 8 (3d6 + 4)

>>5146538
>*WOOF!*
>>
>>5146542
Motherfucker...
>>
Rolled 4, 2, 5 + 4 = 15 (3d6 + 4)

>>5146538
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 2 + 4 = 15 (3d6 + 4)

>>5146538
Time for a "living machine" quest?
>Play dead!
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 1 + 4 = 9 (3d6 + 4)

We need to get rid of the programing asap fuck that slut
>>
>>5146548
We have a savior.
>>
File: 1578941472106.png (352 KB, 457x448)
352 KB
352 KB PNG
>>5146547
I forgot to post this which was super fitting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRMQI4vjnPg
>>
>>5146549
Man I think the programming just saved us
>>
All I'm saying is that the Phobos got a point I'd rather die than be a dog imagine what she could make us do
>>
>>5146542
>>5146547
>>5146548
Target: 13
9, 15, 15
!!TEST PASSED!!

"Good Boy!"

You broke through the Second Layer. Reaching out you eventually resurface, falling back into the Umbral Core, your entire body ached. The Dive suit you had escaped floated around impotently as you drifted naked. The Ejection unit was screaming. The charge is ready to be used on you. "Pilot! Status! This is your last chance!" A voice called. It didn't belong to you Mistress, you relax. The seizure stopped and your Phobos did the same. Trying your hardest to speak, you muster a few words, fighting through the cracks in your voice. "Secondary Linking is Successful. Ready for Auxiliary Linking. Can you please get this tarp off me, it isn't helping." It took a moment for you to receive a reply.

The plastic around you that still remained slipped free. The entire hall returned to your vision. "Copy that. You had use worried for a second there Pilot." Two Prince class Phobos stood on either side of you, both were shorter than you. But unlike you there were carrying weapons, the safety bars clearly removed. Flicking around you saw the panic as most of the staff had already left. The candidates were far away, staring at you. You could see their lips moving frantically. Unfortunately you couldn't read them. You couldn't find Haruki. You spotted Mistress Yuga while on your hunt, she was smoking. The father of Alex and Tony being restrained by the other commanders while Yumigawa clearly tried to mediate the situation.

"You really in there kid?" A voice inquired over the Lo Wave. One of the Princes was addressing you. "Yes, Sorry. The second layer caught me by surprise." You felt the barrels of their weapons finally fall from you. "Where is Haruki?" You barked back. Both received the signal. The Phobos on the left, gestured over its shoulder. The Umbral Core of her own still hadn't sunk into the Phobos. She was still undergoing Primary Linking. "Pilot, are you prepared for Auxiliary Linking? Stay in contact. Over."
>>
>>5146593
Out of the corner of your eye you saw her. She was naked and beautiful, her hair as black as night. Even in the core it stood out, a spot of living, flowing emptiness. It was longer than you could remember. In contrast to her ghostly pale flesh, she was carved from marble; her well muscled figure kept nothing from your eyes. Her face was concealed, the vortex of hair like tendril that reached out for you. In the back of your mind you can hear her whisper, you can hear her die again and again. "Pilot. Confirm. Over." You snapped your eyes shut and turned back toward the other Phobos. "Copy. I'm prepared and awaiting Auxiliary Linking. Let's get this over with." You replied sharply, the voice had only an ounce of authority.

You were ready this time, tense and prepared. Diving below you let the current pull you down, not fighting the hands that hauled you down the river Styx. Down into the Third Layer, Cerebellum Cells. The world warped outside your shell and the core, your mind quickly smothered by white endless pathways. Like the tunnels of an ants nest. Or the roots of an immense tree. You already knew you had to escape, uninterested in discovering what the layer would wish to subject you too. She swam along beside you, her alluring body curing through the waves. In one fluid motion she did laps, mischievously hiding her face and nothing else. "Pilot! What is your status?" The voice echoed down a fiendishly small route. Approaching you threw yourself at it. The voices began to return. Humming tunes that you naked audience danced to.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Try and escape the current Layer?
>Explore the Layer further?

Roll a dice+3d6+4 Mind Test.
Target is:14
Best of three will be used.
>>
Rolled 3, 5, 2 + 4 = 14 (3d6 + 4)

>>5146594
>Explore the Layer further?
>>
Rolled 5, 5, 4 + 4 = 18 (3d6 + 4)

>>5146594
>Try and escape the current Layer?
We bearly survived don't be stupid
>>
Rolled 5, 5, 5 + 4 = 19 (3d6 + 4)

Get the fuck out its a trap
>escape
>>
Almost got the 666 this is the last test yeah ?
>>
>>5146607
>>5146608
Now we get good rolls
>>5146615
Let's hope so
>>
>>5146594
>Try and escape the current Layer
GO EVEN FURTHER BEYOND- Or just out of this present layer, anyways

Tho yea, the conditioning saved our sanity this time. We gotta get that Mind stat higher, or get more acclimated to the Phobos in order to make easier checks if we want to go without it.
>>
>>5146594
>>Try and escape the current Layer?
>>
My my what i have miss
The Phobos is messing with our head by probably using our memories that the empire sealed.
It seems it can know what we don t know.
>>
>>5146571
We will probably need to look in our head if we even hope to get free. Even then, i am not sure it was the right time for us to get in the Phobos.

From this last sanity gain
>>5142240

We had a tot of 150 sanity before starting the test. There was three mind attacks, a - 2, a -8 and a -54, before Mistress said the word.
So we are at 86. Depending from how long is this first test, and what they want us to do we might lose more.
If sanity can be gained, i presume we can get it later back. Or no i suppose. Though Theta should have done something for that as well, otherwise all those resources, candidates and time spend are quite a waste.

The Phobos need an alive human. Maybe the alien is irritated it can t get Morty, with all those levels of mind control and propaganda in his brain ?
I wonder if everyone else is doing okay or we are the only schizo case.
>>
>>5146596
>>5146607
>>5146608
Target: 14
14, 18, 19
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Mind Gained

You felt your eyes pull to her, she was damningly inviting. You turn away, the voices probing you softly. Then you heard something real, echoing from ahead. "Pilot, Status? Over." The voice inquired calmly, through the maze you glimpsed the prince class machines shift from side to side. Not getting any closer, clearly inspecting and monitoring you for any signs of trouble. Increasing the pace you follow the path, the route shrinks and before long you are crawling or wriggling like a worm along the way. Thankfully the route returned to a comfortable size, the hallways were surrounded by pale doors, they had been tempting to open and to explore. But you were sure you had found the way out.

You weren't sure how long they'd give you to work with. So you put some pep in your step. She calls your name. Your eyes widen as your heart climbs up your throat, you struggle to swallow as you spin round. She stands there, a door behind her swings open. Blood begins to flow down her white body, crimson lines that etched obscene formulas. She steps aside, arm wide. Offering you entrance. Through the way you see it. An Umbral Core. A Rotten Core. The Nerve clusters broken and smashed, weak and short things that hang from it lifeless. A massive crack carves a path down the middle of it. For a moment you step towards it. Then you notice the rest, rows of small children sit around it, lined up facing the orb.

One stands and looks at you, you recognize her. Then another child stands, he takes her hand. You feel sick. The sight burning your very soul. He steps into the shattered core. You retch. Pulling her along with him. She calls your name again. You turn away. Your master was calling for you. The Mistress had need of her faithful doggy. You head further towards the source of the voice. You knew you had to leave. Pushing further you felt the boundary appear suddenly and without warning. You stumbled into the exit without realizing where it truly was. Thankfully you emerged back into the Core, your body still recuperating. Without provocation you adresss whoever was on the line. "Auxiliary Linking is Successful. I repeat, Auxiliary Linking is Successful. Over?" You took a long moment to just float there.
>>
>>5146750
Contemplating the world and your part in it. It had been harder than you had expected, it felt like it had been hours. The Second layer had brutalised you, you were unsure how you had even escaped. The pain was so immense you barely remembered it within. It could have been a dream, a nightmare. But you glimpsed her, She stood just on the edge of your peripheral vision. Whatever it was. It was horrible. You were thankful it was over. "Copy that. Pilot, Prepare for restraint removal. Over" Through the eyes of the Phobos you watched the candidates slowly approach. Even the commanders had settled down. With a crack and a snap the restraints began to descend, only partially as one side had been bent and was in need of repair.

However you were finally unshackled. Your long body felt strange below you. Tentatively you stepped from side to side, checking your balance. They held. Testing your arms they moved to your command. "Follow me, Pilot." The Phobos on the right said, gesturing you to follow. You did, a little shaky at first but as the second fell in behind you it became second nature. Without a thought you kept pace, allowing you mind time to gander and relax. The fear and worry had lessened among the other pilots as they seemed to be shouting and talking to each other more than they had before. Katerina was watching you leave, the gamma boys cheering you on. You were glad.

You smile. Happy with the job you had done, you had survived. Striding through the large area you were marched over to another Empire Restraining port. "Take your time Pilot, you already busted up one port." You did so, backing up delicately. "Yeah and expect it to be coming out of your paycheck kid…" the other reprimanded you. You shrugged floating naked within your warmachine. "You guys are getting paid?" They didn't reply to your question, and eventually you managed to hold the Phobos still enough for the locking hands to accept the weight. As your core began to expose itself you swam over to your suit, ignoring the shadow of a woman admiring you and hustled to get back inside it.
>>
>>5146754
She floated up behind you, cold and smooth hands guiding you in. Her touch sent goose bumps across your body, you didn't fight her. Too shocked to resist as She pulled the lower section up to your hips, her hands tracing the muscles of your back. You quickly finished dressing. Exiting the Umbral Core was precarious, slowly you inched your way out. Not wanting to fall off the small platform and down the steep unforgiving metal stairs. Yumigawa was there waiting for you at the base, waving at you while half your body was still dangling out the black sphere. You gave her a wave back. And once free rushed down the steps.

From happiness the emotion slipped, her eyebrows raising as she approached you. "Congratulations Mortimer. Very impressive. That was the fastest Linking I've ever witnessed. Yuga really whipped you into shape, but it got a little shaky in the second layer there. You have vastly out shone the projected time. Hopefully all our Candidates can operate so… diligently. Do you feel ok?" She inquired, a hand reaching up. Following her movement pain pricked your head as she pulled free a single hair. It was pale white. You blinked at it. "Stress… don't worry Morty. You'll be under observation for the next few days. Oh but you must be pretty exhausted." You hadn't noticed, but the more she spoke the harder you found it to focus.

You end up just nodding affirmation. "No problem! Take him to the debrief room. Get him something hot to eat and drink." She gave you a light kick to the ass as you followed the staff member. Turning you gave the Phobos one last look, it towered up, unveiled and back straightened. It was about thirty five feet tall. It's body is frighteningly thin. You looked forward to testing it further. Then you notice her, naked and without a hint of hesitation. She was walking laps around Haru, weighing up the woman. Maybe even considering her competition. You chuckled against your will. Quickly stifling it you follow on, eyes strictly forward. You are led to a room, sofas and tranquil artwork line the walls.
>>
>>5146754
Falling into a sofa it wasn't long before you fell asleep, waking briefly only to eat a pair of burgers and a cup of tea. Then the dreamless sleep steals you again. And when you wake up at last a few more people sit around on the other sofas, some even asleep like you. You tried to move but Haruki had curled up at your side, pushing you mostly off the sofa. Somehow you hung halfway off the piece of furniture. Her arms tightly keeping you aloft. You felt like a cat being held up by an adult. Delicately you pried yourself free and stand. You almost fall over, legs so far sleep the pins and needles need a second to wake up.

You draw the eyes of the other pilots. They looked awful, the Prince was slumped in his chair, the front of his Ace suit matted in congealed blood. Fingers pinching the bridge of his nose. A delta boy you didn't recognize and Sophia were asleep. Castilla stopped sobbing for a moment before returning to it. Dimitri was the only one that seemed remotely stable. His eyes stared through you, from one of the pouches of his heavy suit he produced a small flask. He tossed it at you, catching it caused him to jump. His dilated eyes finally settled on you. Seeing you for only a moment.

Then he turned his attention to the far corner, staring at it. The door opened, almost making you jump in surprise. Alex stumbled in next, the entire left side of his body limp. The staff member struggling with the tall lad looked at you for help. Rushing over, your legs cry out in annoyance. Helping the dazed boy over you plant him in a seat. They were all out of it, your own ghoul wasn't in sight yet.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Try to help a Pilot get more comfortable? Write in
>Rest yourself?
>Explore the floor you are on?
>Try talking to a Pilot? Write in
>>
>>5146758
>Rest yourself?
Everybody seems fucked up, lets not bother them. See if we can go back to where we were without disturbing Haruki.
>>
>>5146758
>your own ghoul wasn't in sight yet.

Our what?
>>
>>5146775
Pretty sure that would be her
>>
>>5146758
>Ask staff member about status of rest of candidates
>Try whatever is in the flask Dimitri throw at you
>Rest yourself?
>>
>rest yourself
Gentlemen I have a proposal, seducing our ghoul yes or no ?
>>
>>5146793
Anon, I've been to /x/, don't fuck with Tulpas
>>
>>5146795
What if she's the phobos's alien consciousness,remember we are one now she could be our Eva 01
>>
I just hope the beta bitch got a heart attack and that 2nd gamma bro survived since it seems one of the deltas got phobos'd
>>
>>5146799
This is not an argument for seducing the malicious alien consciousness.
>>
>>5146809
not actively malicious,remember she's an alien maybe she thought she was helping
>>
>>5146758
>Rest yourself?

>>What do you do, Pilot?
Make a mental note we have a "She" inside us now. Maybe we can talk with it later ? maybe no.
Regardless now just sleep on the sofa and hug Haruki back. We are tired now, is clear. I want us to be able to move and talk without being so weak/tired at the moment.

Thank Dimitri for the flask btw, take a small sip, and go to sleep. Hopefully it's not something impossible to drink


>>5146756
>Hopefully all our Candidates can operate so… diligently
Lmao

>>5146793
No, is just a flying woman. In our eyes and mind of course. Both parts of the human body that can be manipulated.
Who knows what the fuck as actual entered in our body. It could be just chemicals doing reactions, or an internal part of the Phobos could have fused to our body. Or even just our brain reacting with a mental problem, after interacting with the Phobos, our sanity did lower afterall to a score of 86 from 150.

Also Mortimer seduction would not be so .. seductive let s say. His social skills don't seem very developed, and being an orphan special soldier of the government doesn't help in that field either.

It could be a memory made quite active and real, by the Phobos, playing mind games is something the alien was doing.
Inside our brain.

Eitherway i kinda not trust it. Again 0 knowledge of this.
Mortimer by default doesn't play with a good hand of cards. The empire and things like psions, the mistress and the phobos, play on another level. Even if the alien seem to like to just drive someone insane or kill it. As fast as possible if it can be given the possibility.
The pilots for Phobos must be recruited costantly, if Phobos are so bloodthirsty, to attempt to kill anyone that enters them lmao.
>>
Even it sounds stupid, if the alien was able to play so well with Mortimer mind, enough that he imagined to being torn apart, what happens if the alien tries to tell Mortimer body that a part of it is cut or that is actually on fire ? Not Mortimer mind, but for example a muscle of a leg. Instead of lowering our sanity would Mortimer lose health ?
>>
>>5146758
>Try to help a Pilot get more comfortable?
>Alex
>Snap your fingers in front of his face to get his attention, try to get him to focus
>”You still alive in there, buddy?”
Look, anything to get at least one of the gamma bros recovered a little faster. And if his brother didn’t make it….well, he’s gonna want someone to lean on
>>
The fact that there are multiple senior Prince class Phobos pilots seems to indicate that repeated linking is possible, and that it gets easier

However, it was mentioned earlier that there are only two Emperor class Phobos that are known in service….So it could be that Emperors have a very high bar, or that they’re more taxing mentally than others.
>>
Kat's odds aren't looking god bros
>>
>>5146868
Morty would know that repeated linking is possible. However it is extremely rare because when a Phobos dies it is extremely uncommon for the person piloting it to survive. Usually the human gives out before the machine.

>Won't post for a few hours. On a break.
>>
>>5146758
>Try talking to a Pilot?
Dimitri
Ask him how his link went.
>Take a Shot
>>
>>5146770
>>5146793
You helped Alex get comfortable the best you could, despite your best attempt your body struggled. You were no doctor so left him safely laying on the sofa. You had no intention of bothering the other Pilots, you were no professional. For all you know you could make it worse. Sliding the flask into a pouch your own bed called to you, you had to share with the lanky lady herself. Her eyes were on you, Haruki watched you approach in a daze. Both her eyes were bloodshot, despite her worn condition she shot you a wide smile.

Pushing the back cushions off the sofa she scooted further back. Right against the backrest. She was far more appealing than the thing that haunted you now, but you pushed those thoughts aside. Your body beyond caring. You just wanted to be back in her embrace. Crawling into the space Ruki had made for you, no words had to be exchanged. She pulled you in, pressing you against her soft chest as her arms and legs wrapped around you. Another suit might have made it uncomfortable but the dive suit was soft where it mattered. It didn't take long to get comfortable, the steady beat of her heart and the rise and fall of her chest Comforting you.

You felt warm, her body protecting you. Her hands worked along the muscles of your back, mapping out muscle groups you barely knew you had. You hugged her tighter, your hands finding their own spots to rest. One climbed through her short hair, the other resting on the small of her back. You couldn't care less about who saw you two. Your last conscious thoughts were of how warm you were. The dreams that harassed you were fleeting and forgotten in an instant. Ruki's face is a constant in all of them.

+10 Sanity Gained
>>
>>5147005
You stir as she moves, the fuzzy throb of sounds wakes you up further. Despite your attempt to burrow further into Haruki your mind solidified. Thoughts too hard to escape. Opening your eyes you began to make out low conversations. Ruki was up, clearly listening. She gave you a smile, one her hands brushing a stray hair from your face. You felt better, your mind rested. Even the dull pain across your body was fading. You were far from perfect, but where you were wasn't bad at all. Unfortunately, you'd have to move eventually and you treasured it while you could.

Resting your head on her, you began to listen to the words properly. The drumming of her heart is inescapable. "-ake a few more trails to reach 100% synchronization rate. But the last forty eight hours have been excellent. Pilot Mortimer, Haruki and Peter all beat the twelve hour record. But those are vast outliers. Do not lose hope, it is common for multiple linking sessions to be required. That was always the best case scenario. I'm very proud of you all. Be sure to take your rest. You'll be dismissed back to your quarters in around an hour." The whole speech you caught surprised you. It hadn't felt like forty eight hours had passed. But you were unsure how long you and Ruki had been linking. The girl ran a hand through your hair, blowing into your ear. A few of the pilots murmur and talked between themselves.

But you were in no rush to throw yourself out there again. You deserved the comfort. Her slim fingers slid down your temple, outlining your jaw. Delicately she cupped your cheek, her thumb brushing across your lips. You gave it no second thought, enjoying any sensation that wasn't pain. But time crept up on you. Before long you were sitting up, the entire group being mustered for the march back up. Tony and Alex nodded to you, too exhausted to talk. You gave them a thumbs up. Katerina watched you, before turning away her eyes heavy and downcast. You glimpsed dried blood along her earlobes and neck, her long hair matted. Most of the pilots were in bad conditions. Two of the Delta boys were in wheelchairs. Yiva was nowhere to be seen and the other Alpha girls mostly wept.
>>
>>5147007
The boy from Beta wasn't around. The world was a mess. You stumbled onwards. Back towards your quarters. A few whispers bounced back and forth. Grisha working his way upside you. "I don't get how you managed for so long. Let alone all three linkings in a single day." He declared, his throat raw. Words deep and harsh, you almost didn't notice Castilla under his arm. She was whimpering Into his side. Although his words was remotely steady tears trickled down his own eyes. You weren't sure what to tell him. "Theta specialized in such intense mental activity. And even then I struggled." The handsome boy just nodded. You felt Ruki's arm slip around you waist, clearly mimicking the man's hold on his interest. You were in not state to escape. Joking to yourself that she'd probably best you up if you did.

Eventually you all ended up back on the most familiar floor. You, Ruki, Grisha, Cass, Alex, Tony, Dimitri, Katerina and Prince Peter. The wobbly horde, stumbled down the corridors. Short chatter passing back and forth fluidly. Peter had been fine until the second layer. He had spent most of the second layer bleeding out, you could relate to his situation. For mental strain rather than physical pressure. Ruki had been fine until auxiliary, she had gotten lost and ended up going down countless doorways. Dimitri had seen his mother, he didn't share more. No one dared to probe. You all exchanged a mutual understanding. Before the gang seperated, Grisha invited everyone to hang out and crash in his room. Alex, Tony and Dimitri eagerly accept. Ruki watches you expectantly, Peter and Katerina began to discuss what to do.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Hang out and crash in Geisha's room?
>Go Crash in your own room?
>Do something else?Write in
>Try talking to a Pilot? Write in
>>
>>5147008
Name: Mortimer
Rank: Corporal
Renown:
Prize of the Theta Project.
Pilot of the Emperor-RT Phobos "????"

Current Stats:
Mind: 11
Body: 20
Skill: 31
Smarts: 10
Sanity: 96

Social Standing:
Katerina: 2.0
Alexander: 7.0
Anthony: 7.0
Castilla: 1.5
Yiva: 2.0
Sophia: 2.0
Lucy: 2.0
Brigitta: 3.0
Anastasia: -12.0
Haruki: 20.0
Dimitri: 1.5
Grisha: 1.5

>Bumped up some social stats for your good showing.
>Officially a Phobos Pilot, Congratulations Anons!
>Last post for tonight.
>>
>>5147008
>Go Crash in your own room?
Toss the flask back to Dimitri. "Have a good one."
>>
>>5147008
>Go Crash in your own room?
>>
>>5147008
>Hang out and crash in Geisha's room?
Party time!
>>
>>5147008
> >>5147008
> Go Crash in your own room

I have zero doubt we will be disturbed but fuck it. Just hope it's Haru or someone friendly instead of a government kill team
>>
So not only we connected in record time. We also did on first and only try what is generally not happening. Mistress must be super smug right now.
>>
>>5147008
>>Go Crash in your own room?
Next time dimitri


>>5147021
what we did this time to Anastasia?
>>
>>5147331
We dabbed on her
>>
Bros I can't choose haru or kat ?
>>
>>5147405
Just wait until one of them dies. But fact that you didn't include Her the best girl says a lot about you.
>>
>>5147345
Damn i guess she will never recover from that ....

>>5147405
you could use a dice.
Or wait it out and for now get a bit of kat, a bit of haru. I am sure they will not mind until a certain point. Even if Haru is already quite attached, so i don't mind either.
>>
>>5147405
I'm fully expecting Haru to start going yandere at some point, for what it's worth.
>>
>>5147021
>Social Standing:
>No social standing for Mistress
I wonder what is max social standing
>>5147668
As she should. We are prime genetic material here .
>>
>>5147405
I spent a day pondering this question and reached a satisfying conclusion:
>why not both ?
>>
>>5147674
The usual reasons of the perils of dating multiple people come to mind.

The problem with the Phobos is that it’s Alien, and we have yet to communicate coherently, let alone know what it wants.
>>
>>5147021
Just caught up. Absolutely amazing writing QM. Loved every post.
>>
>>5147140
>>5147189
>>5147331
You shake your head. "Maybe once I catch back. I still crave more sleep, have a fun time for me." The boys understood. Giving you nods as you split up, Kat and the Prince tagging along with them. Haruki and you walk arm in arm, enjoying the inevitable rest. As it slowly approached. She left you at your door. Giving you a hug before heading on her own way. You watch her go until she rounds a corner. Exhausted, you enter your room. In the gloom of your quarters you make out a figure. She was sitting at your desk, ignoring her.

You close the door and head straight to your bed, flopping down head first. "Did the Linking affect your eyes 391?" The voice asked, you heard the snap of a lighter starting and the smell of smoke followed without further introduction. You sit up, turning to face Mistress Yuga. Her face a molten red, the glow of the cigarette cherry the only light in the room. Glowing and dimming as she breathed in and out. "Sorry Mistress, I didn't see you there." The woman hummed in thought, leaning back in your chair. She took the cigarette in her hand as she talked, the gloomy corner hiding her. You could only make out her hand resting back and forth as she spoke further.

"We will be parting ways soon. So I came to check up on you. And also to deliver your pilot credentials''. You hear the sounds of her long nails tapping on the metal desk. "What do you mean?" You inquired, fighting to stay awake. The cigarette returned to her lips. Her eyes burn intensely with hate as they appear within the glow again. You flinched away, averting your eyes. "Yes you will be in-service now, I must continue with the work I have left to complete. So until then, this is goodbye. For now anyway." You watched her get up and leave, the floating source of light guiding your eyes. The light from the hallway blinded you, as she stepped out you thought you glimpsed a naked body leaving.
>>
>>5147931
Dark long hair dragging along the ground, a slick stray strand snatching out and pulling the door closed. But you were unsure, sitting in the dark you expected something else to happen. You were afraid something else would've happened. But nothing did. You weighed the chances of it being reality, you knew it was your mind. Frazzled and worn out, you were driving on rims while the gas tank was full of sand. You weren't aware of when you had fallen asleep, in what felt like an instant you woke with a start, legs dangling over the side of your bed. Your body ached from the beating you had received, mentally and physically.

Just taking the moment to lay on your bed, it was hard to gather the courage to stand. You didn't know what to do. At least you weren't alone anymore, well not really. Well for now anyway. Finally hauling yourself from the warm mattress you stumble into the shower, striping down and pulling free the bandage on your neck. The wound was healing, it wasn't even that deep. Standing under the hot torrent you could feel yourself falling back asleep. You turned on the cold water, the assault knocking the wind out of you. Through chattering teeth you sucked in air, remaining within a chilly storm. Climbing into your shell you feel the cold slip away.

Strangely enough you felt warm. Content, you turned the water off and went about getting further ready. Drying around the wound it was healing nicely, a thin scar most likely going to remain on your flesh. It didn't bother you. Well you thought it didn't, it might even look cool. Like a grizzled hero from noir novels, girls might even find it appealing. You tenderly traced the purple and yellow blotches on your side and neck. They were healing well, but the dull throb only really went away with the painkillers. You blink, noticing jagged and deep gorges are carved across you. They seep out deep red blood. All over you is torn and ripped. Shredded flesh barely clings to you. But only for an instant, then it's gone and She stops watching over your shoulder.
>>
>>5147933
She follows, hanging just out of sight. Not bold enough as when your mind was untethered within the machine. When it was being abused and broken. But you took your time, enjoying what you could. Tenderly you retrieved him. Your familiar companion, returning him to your desk. You finally notice something that had been sitting there all night. A slim card, it had on it your name, rank, a photo and your Candidate identification. It marked you as an Emperor class Phobos Pilot, you played with the piece of plastic back and forth. You thought it would have been harder. Revitalized you pocket the card and throw on another set of your uniform. Beret to top it off. It was after 7:30 when you were ready. Damningly late back in the hole. But now, you had a smidge of freedom, well you just assumed they'd have the grace not to wake you post linking. Opening your door you stood in the hallway, basking in the artificial light. Unsure what to do.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Head to Breakfast?
>Explore the floor further?
>Do Something else?Write in
>Look for someone? Write in
>>
>>5147345
>>5147421
>Technically it is a war crime.

>>5147827
Thanks Anon. I really appreciate the feedback. I'm glad you enjoyed it so much, hopefully in the future posts are just as good.

>Sorry about the rather late update.
>>
>get breakfast
Shit we didn't talk to kat or even apologize now its gonna be awkward,also lads what do you think about trying to communicate with the ghoul?
>>
>>5147935
>Head to Breakfast
>>
>>5147935
>Head to Breakfast?
>>
>>5147935
>>Head to Breakfast?
>>
>>5147935
>>Head to Breakfast?
time to eat
>>
>>5147944
Np

>>5147964
We can talk now with Kat if needed.
Maybe. Probably not when everyone looks at us, it would be weird if we do that. She is still playing with our mind, so i am starting to think is an hallucination made by a part of the phobos inside our body. for what purpose who knows. I didn't expect she to do that weird effect on the mistress. Maybe it thinks we are an animal following our basic instincts ? The Phobos started to call us a dog at a certain point after all. Visual stimulation of that kind sound like the kind of thing for bait us in doing something dumb, like exposing ourselves to mental attacks.
>>
>>5147964
>>5148031

Your body demanded sustenance and you weren't about to deny it. With the route beginning to become familiar you make it all the way to the rec room, only getting semi-lost once. Thankfully the staffer who had pointed you in the right direction had also been looking for you, himself lost on the winding floor. You had scheduled in some Phobos time, 'tutoring' the young man had put it. Since you had recently completed linking it was important to reinforce the link and bond by remaining within the Phobos for designated time periods. You knew of the training, it was usually skipped over in meetings and barely expanded upon. But you were excited to see what tips a senior pilot could share with you. If any at all, with a slip of handwritten instructions he left you, it was taking place on the same floor as the linking. Your allotted time was between twelve and two. Pocketing the note you headed the way the man had said.

Entering the large room the alluring aroma pulled you further inside, you spotted only a few of the other pilots. The others were probably still asleep or already back in their Phobos trying to link. Katerina and the Prince were sitting down and eating together. The Grand duke nowhere in sight, a few of the delta boys you didn't know were picking out food. Brigitta sat by herself, her tray oddly filled with nothing but toast. She gave you a little wave then returned to eating her toast. You regarded them with nods, not wanting to bother anyone still sore from yesterday. Your stomach growled like a beast, surprising you a little. An expansive hunger suddenly reared its head. You took hefty amounts of breakfast, matching what you had taken the day before. You could see the menu getting stale, but hot tasty food was better than none. You felt good, sipping from your tea before setting out to find a seat. The three boys were huddled together, you had yet to properly introduce yourself to them. But there was also the Prince and Katerina. You mulled over who to sit with, second guessing invading the two groups.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Sit by the Prince and Katerina?
>Sit with the Delta Boys?
>Sit by Brigitta?
>Sit by yourself?
>>
>>5149289
>Sit by the Prince and Katerina?
>>
>>5149289
>Sit by the Prince and Katerina?
>>
>>5149289
> Sit by the Prince and Katerina
>>
>>5149289
>>Sit by Brigitta?
That's a lot of toast. You go to diversify your plate.
>>
>>5149289
>brigitta
Help her defeat those toasts
>>
>>5149303
>>5149304
>>5149339
Writing. Post soon
>>
>>5149444

Eyeing the mountain of toast you almost approach the girl from Alpha. But You hadn't gotten to speak with Kat since she showed up to your room. You felt a little awkward about it. But pushing those thoughts aside you make your way over to the duo. Joining them at the table, Katerina barely gave you a snippet of attention. But the prince stopped his conversation with her to address your arrival. Watching you expectantly down the length of his nose. "Howdy, I'm Corporal Mortimer. I'm the Theta Pilot." You announced, Katerina already knew, you shared it with the royal. The Prince nodded sagely, confirming what he had already known. "Yes… I have heard of you. You put on quite the show with that Zeta girl… Especially after your illustrious showing of how to link successfully." His voice was high in pitch, each word well pronounced and unrushed.

His accent is odd. He spoke as if every second was his own, as if everyone would wait for him to finish. He examines you without a hint of reservation. It was a little intense. Katerina focused on her food, rolling her eyes clearly annoyed at the topic. You blushed a little. "It's complicated. But we settled the issue and moved beyond the whole fight… We are friends." You reply a little unsure of how to describe the relationship you shared with the girl. You were at such a disadvantage it was hard to acknowledge, but it did seem like Haruki was content to have you in any form. But you didn't want to think about it too much. "Yes yes. Theta and Zeta were sister projects. I've seen the reports, well the ones that exist and aren't covered in black ink. However your magnificent job in linking really did speak volumes of the training you received. You and the Haruki girl both finished before me. That's very impressive, my own training was rather in depth too. But such are the burdens of royalty. It's a pleasure to meet you, Corporal Mortimer. I'm Prince Peter Romanov. But I'm sure you know that." The young man spoke, a constant smirk across his lips.

You smile back, Kat kissed her teeth. Tongue running back and forth along her front set as she shot daggers at you. You were a little unsure what to do. "The Duchess had a vastly more colourful selection of words used in describing you. But alas, of what I've seen you are quite the respectable young man. Especially for one of your own upbringings." The boy's accent was almost hard to understand, it took you a moment to mull over his words. "The Duchess?" You asked, wondering who had shared information with him. The Prince grinned further, his sly eyes widening only for a second before he regained his upright and proper Appearance. He was coming off as a little snooty to you.
>>
>>5149456
He turned his attention to Katerina, the girl focused on her food. "Now now. Did my troublesome little cousin withhold her status from you?" You looked between the pair, a little unsure about what he was implying. "Kat?" You asked him after the girl refrained from talking. The youth nodded, drumming his fingers along the table. "Yes, Duchess Katerina. Her second attempt at linking will be continuing later today. It just goes to show how little attention she paid during our lessons." The boy said with a smidge of smugness, you may have noticed the quite viscous chewing of the food in her mouth. But you ignored it, content to listen. "But I guess a man isn't defined by the status of his birth… only a fool would believe things were so simple. After all Just look at yourself, Corporal Mortimer. However to fail so spectacularly while even having everything handed to you. I'd be agast to bring such a dishonour upon my own family personally. Wouldn't you agree, Corporal Mortimer?"

You weren't sure how to reply, thankfully Katerina began to speak up. "Peter, maybe you should worry about your own worth before you begin to discuss the weight of overs? How common is it for a damn Prince to be thrown in with the rest of the bloody gentry? You can take those thoughts of yours and stick them up Morty's fucking asshole for all I care." She hissed, eyes lashing out at the pair of you. The boy raised an eyebrow, fanning himself with his hand as he leant away from her assault. "I'm just speaking candidly with my comrade pilot, Cousin. She has always had a bad attitude, even as a small girl. I always found it strange, all the other pilots here have crawled out from lowly hovels. I've yet to meet any so venomous. Clearly it doesn't make her a better pilot… But what about you? Well Mortimer…"

His words are floaty and clearly free of hesitation or resignation. He rested both hands together, his chin sitting atop it. Like a king on a throne. His eyes feeding off you. "You're an enigma. From my own investigation and musings I had expected a broken husk. Some numb shell, human in exterior only. Two grotesque little creatures of the ministry. Instead I find a pair of clearly very close kindred spirits. Did the harsh reality of your existence cause that? Or were you always that way. Were it the hardships and losses that shaped you? Or were you born to be how you are? Distant? Detached? Alien? Maybe that's what makes you two so good at linking. I do wonder. Obviously besides the mental limits and interference training…" His words rattled off as he looked around the room. "That girl is just eating toast... Toast. Just imagine the hell she has lived through. It's almost too ghastly to imagine Mortimer." He said in a wistful tone.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to the Prince?Write in
>Talk to Kat? Write in
>Excuse yourself and sit by someone else?
>>
>>5149457
>Talk to the Prince?Write in
Ask more about his linking. Ask if he sees anything strange, after coming out of the orb/Phobos.
>>
>>5149464
+1 and joke about the toast like saying to be fair its damn good toast
>to kat
I'm sorry about lying the last time,that was dumb but In my defense I was high on painkillers
>>
>>5149457
>What do you say? Write in.
>Personally majority of interaction with fellow pilots were pleasant. Aside from representative of midget squadron Anastasia.
>Ask Prince why is he conveying eating toast with hell? Does his throat hurt and be finds them to rough? Is that why his voice is so high?

Shitting on midget and little bit on price should fix Kat's mood i hope
>>
>>5149464
>>5149476
Maybe leave that kind of questions for trained pilot or Harukid sister researcher.

And keep Kat out of conversation when we are in front of Prince dear God read the fucking room. Especially things that are private and personal. That will be drop in relationship if anything
>>
>>5149457
Alright, I hate this guy.

>Talk to Kat?
I can understand why you left out your status, if you were related to this....prick. I would say good luck on the linking, but I don't think you'll need it. Just don't get hung up on the second layer, it's one hell of a trip.

>Talk to the Prince?
Ignore him, move on. We aren't going to win a battle of words with a blueblood, anyways.

>Excuse yourself and sit by someone else?
Brigitta

Lets not give Prince more social ammo to sling at Kat for some reason or another, best to just try and tell Kat we're rooting for her, and move on.
>>
>>5149483
>Being outright hostile rather then sling insults by pretending to be dumb hick when our station fully allows it

Holy shit people this is sad and disappointing. Why would we sabotage ourselves like that?
>>
>>5149477
Changing to this,dude has a point
>>
>>5149483
+1
>>
>>5149477
+1
Maybe even excuse ourselves to go check on Brigitta because all that toast can't be healthy
>>
>>5149483
Switch to this
>>
>>5149464
>>5149477
>>5149483
Mfw I start writing and the votes change. It'll be a mix of all three. Might be a bit longer until post is up.
>>
Lads don't fucking make an enemy of the goddamned crown prince of our empire for some browny points with a chick cause she won't move a finger to help us against him
>>
>>5149734
But you did probe further. "Any strange residual effects after unlinking? I heard they were pretty common. Hallucinations, twitches and that type of stuff." You ate between the words, trying to seem nonchalant. Trying not to seem overly interested in the idea. "No, none at all" The boy said coolly before sipping from his coffee, he was clearly lying. You weren't sure about pressing the topic, taking a bite from your own toast you spoke to distract him and change the subject. "This is some damn good toast?" you mumble with a mouthful of bread. The Prince wrinkled his nose at the display, his own words coming out more condescending than earlier. Kat scoffed, shaking her head as a cheeky grin appeared and then vanished.

She shot you another annoyed look. You relented, deciding on giving her some advice and a little support. Even if you were in front of her cousin. "I can understand why you'd keep the whole duchess thing to yourself. Especially with whom that may lump you in the same category with… I would say good luck on the second set of linking, but I don't think you'll need it. Just don't get hung up on the second layer, it's one hell of a trip. But it's normal to take numerous attempts anyway. At least you know you aren't a weirdo like me or your cousin." The girl snorted.

Her cousin raised an eyebrow, his fingers rubbing his chin as his eyes tried to read your face. "We aren't weird..." he addressed, before clearly getting caught up in his own thoughts. The boy's mind distinctly argues with itself. "Don't quit that day job Morty, I don't think being a motivational speaker is for you. But you are right, I don't need your luck or your shitty platitudes. I'm a Duchess and far beyond you." It was Peter's turn to snort, the boy barely holding in his laughter at the girl's rebuttal. Clearly annoyed further she huffed and returned to her food. "Well then, Corporal Mortimer, what would your interpretation of our fellow pilots be? Well besides the duchess and I. From what I've heard you have made attempts to know them as at least informal acquaintances and at most lovers." You ignored the strange comment but thought about the question.
>>
>>5149770
You had shared a few words with most of the pilots around. "Personally, the majority of my interactions with our fellow pilots have been pleasant… well aside from Anastasia, the representative of the midget squadron. She didn't seem to care for me. Not in the slightest." The Prince's eyes brightened at that, interested in the new topic. Nodding fervently along with your words. "Oh! I see. The Clones, yes. They're disgusting little creatures aren't they? I'm surprised they even produced any suitable pilots. It's amazing the project was allowed to keep those runts around, I know people whom I won't name. But a lot of them had hoped the products would end up in a very big hole. You know, all together in the hundreds. But alas, they seem to have some worth." You were confused by the words he said, unsure if his accent shifted their meaning.

You gave Kat a unsure look but the girl was still brooding. "Clones?" You asked inquisitively, an eyebrow raising. You weren't sure if he was serious or not. The Prince's face dropped at the word, as if he had finally caught himself. He looked around, his tone suddenly quieter. "Oh, forget what I said Corporal. Top secret stuff and all that…" He tapped his nose as if the act locked you to some form of secrecy. Thoughts floating around you didn't exactly trust the aristocrat youth. You were a little flabbergasted by the idea… but you were also the pilot of a thirty foot alien death machine. So the idea wasn't that crazy or outlandish. The prince fought to restrain himself, his face twisting, you could see the urge to share the information fighting to escape. And before long he started up again.

"Well their project's book keeping was a lot looser than your own. From what I've read, most of them are defective. Hence their small stature. Their… beneficiary was allegedly Yuliya Assol Pavlovsky. Yes, that pilot. Famously known for being a giant of a woman. Almost like your like Haruki friend." You brow wrinkled at the idea. Then the Prince turned his attention back onto Brigitta. "My god Morty, she hasn't stopped yet. Do something." The blonde girl was onto her second stack by now. Head happily bouncing from side to side as she took animated bites of the food. It even drew Kat's attention. That was a lot of toast to be eating… you were seemingly the most responsible person in the room. You had yet to share any top secret information without clearance and had a actually cordial talk with the girl.
>>
File: download (3).jpg (8 KB, 182x277)
8 KB
8 KB JPG
>>5149772
"I'll just pop over." You said standing up. "Good man!" The Prince added as you left. Crossing over to Brigitta you gave the girl a nod, she smiled as you came closer. "Howdy! Morty. How are you doing? You're looking a lot better than yesterday." The girl's attitude caught you off guard. Not everyone here was impolite and rude. She continues to eat her toast. You fall into a seat opposite her and reply. "Howdy, I'm pretty good. Oh thanks, I'm feeling a lot better. How are you?" The girl finishes off another slice and starts one more as she talks between bites. "I'm doing pretty good, got my second linking coming up. So hopefully I can manage it. We can't all be record breakers like you!" She said cheerfully, being so close you could smell her food.

The toast was lathered in clear honey, jams or marmalades. The stacks were semi held together by the sugary jellies. The girl caught you staring at her, she blushed a little. Mid bite, she speaks with a mouthful and offers you the bitten end. "Oh I'm sorry, would you like some? I want to be full of carbs and sugars before the dive. I heard it keeps your energy high." The piece of toast was tantalizing, it really did look good. Clear and sweet smelling honey dropped from it, the girl clearly had a heavy hand.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Take a Bite?
>Decline a Bite?
>Excuse yourself and sit by someone else?Write in
>Talk to Brigitta?Write in
>>
>>5149773
>>Take a Bite?
DO IT. GIVE IN. TASTE THE TOAST. IT COMMANDS YOU.
>>
>take a bite
>ask how the rest of her squad are holding up
>ask her any rumours she heard about us
>>
>>5149773
>Take a Bite?
Ask how here linking went yesterday.
>>
>>5149773
>Take a Bite?
YUMMY YUMMY TOAST!
>>
>>5149773
>>Take a Bite?
talk about their phobos
thank her for the toast
>>
Honestly, even if the prince is a bit proud, I think it would be a good idea to not have a bad relationship with him. He seems to know far more than us about the projects, and likely the empire, describing to him later our life under Theta to know something of the other projects sounds like a good deal. Or to know something about our own project, that we don't know.
It's interesting that Beta is made up of clones. This still doesn't answer why Anastasia hates us but is a good start.
>>
>>5150112
I mean shouldn't what prince said be enough? Whatever our group did it was some fucked up shit that should make us husk of a men. But here we are being somewhat normal little awkward social butterfly. There is obviously certain level of mistrust between groups. Beta representative clearly hate's mistresses guts and have strong mistrust of her. No wonder Anastasia doesn't trust us if her boss doesn't.

But also 100% agreed on Prince. Idk why people want to be antagonistic... I mean I know he hurt waifu therefore he should die but come on people
>>
File: Brigitta.jpg (78 KB, 600x851)
78 KB
78 KB JPG
>>5149787
>>5149788
>>5149827
>>5150027
>>5150071
The appealing liquid caught the light just right, glinting beautifully. She inches forward, flying the piece of toast dangerously close to your mouth. It looks delicious, then you smell it. The faint trace or salty butter, a landmine you hadn't noticed until you stood right on it. Oh god, the sweet rich honey's own aroma is amplified by the combination. You open your mouth without thinking about it too hard, the girl happily slides it in without further prompting. Licking her own lips as a trickle of sweet nectar begins flowing down your lip as you bite into the crisp yet shockingly soft toast. Biting deep you let the soaked interior flow freely with the thick concoction.

You unintentionally let out a moan of satisfaction. It was louder than you had expected. Dog damn that was some good toast. Chewing slowly you enjoyed every moment, the girl simply smiled, popping what remained into her own mouth. You heard the prince let out a gasp of abject horror. Katerina finally laughs, looking at the pair you couldn't make out the words she was telling her cousin. But they were discussing something again. "That was great. Thank you I loved it" The girl blushed a little shrugging as she talked with a full mouth. Without finishing she took another slice. "Yeah it's pretty good toast. You can have another if you want." Well she had offered, so you took another slice. This time it was a dark and thick grape jam, your mouth watered as you took a bite.

It was just as good as the first slice, the flavors just as complex. You hummed your approval. "How is the rest of Alpha holding up? Castilla looked like she had a rough time yesterday." Brigitta finished chewing before answering, calmly sipping from her tea as she did. "Well your little display did scare us a bit. But I don't think we matched the struggle you seemed to have. They are a little banged up. But everyone looked to be ok, it was surprisingly draining… I kept falling asleep. I don't understand how you all managed to do it all in one go. I guess they really do whip you emperor class pilots into shape." You rub the back of your neck. A little unsure who to accept the compliment.
>>
>>5150371
"We all have our second go at linking today, everyone pretty much wants to get it over with. But I can understand. It is harsh in there, but how about you? How did you manage so well? Any tips?" You blinked, a little worried about how to reply. You don't really cast yourself as an expert."It was very hard. The Umbral Core was a walk in the park. Maybe it made me overconfident… the second layer really cut deep. The Third Layer almost got me too, but I just rushed through it. Focusing on the way out, trying to not get distracted... So if I can offer any advice, don't let your guard down and don't stop fighting it. You just have to make it through." The girl watches you, her misty eyes softer than you had expected.

Especially after the rather vague and lackluster advice you had shared. "I'll tell them and keep it in mind. Thanks Morty, it should help galvanize them knowing that the Emperor-class pilot Mortimer is in their corner." She said cheerfully, returning to her toast. You blushed, hand raising in defense unsure how to counter the words. "I just hope it helps, it is a lot to deal with. And then having to control what you fought against. I think it would be a strange and difficult experience for anyone, I just luckily trained to a higher degree than most." You were trying to be humble, you were sure they had done the same if they had been in the Theta Project. The girl gave you a funny look, so you hurried to change the subject.

"Oh! What type did you settle on linking with? I chose a Rapier-Type." You let the words out fast, hopefully distracting her. The girl seemed more preoccupied with her toast. But humoured you with a reply. "I chose a Sabre-Type while Cas is settling on a Longsword. Lucy and Soph are both going Rapier-type and Yiva is also linking with a Sabre. So a pretty wide variety. You can have another slice if you want." She added, catching you staring at her still rather large pile. Well she said you could. So you took another. But apparently that was the final straw. With a loud huff the prince stood up, leaving his food behind like you had to cross over.
>>
>>5150375
Brigitta raises her eyebrows while mid bite as the prince struts his way over. "Well Corporal! I had hoped you would explain to the young pilot about the necessity of a balanced diet. And the help it contributes to piloting a Phobos. But I see instead you're over here supporting her rather dubious choice in lifestyle." The blonde girl gave you a look, chewing her food thoughtfully as the prince continued to ramble on about the five food groups and the strong link between a healthy body and mind. He was actually making sense, you hadn't really paid much thought to the act. He probably read it in some research paper.

Brigitta ended his long preamble by simply presenting him with the end she had just bitten into. Wordlessly she waggled it up and down at him. Peter gave you a sidelong glance before locking eyes with the girl. You were a little unsure what to do, social interactions were new to you. Especially when it is over toast. Despite your own wayward thoughts the prince seemed to relent. After giving the rather empty room a quick once over, he leant down and took a bite. An appreciative little whistle escaped his lips as he chewed the food. "I see... This Toast is better than I had ever expected." The girl nodded at the boy's declaration. Sitting down beside her they began to discuss the Benefits of toast. Brigitta is surprisingly nonchalant about the royal's rather unique attitude.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to Brigitta and Peter?Write in
>Excuse yourself and sit by someone else?Write in
>Partake in the toast further?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5150376
Brigitta and Prince are lewd indirect kissing in public space. Perverts
>>
>>5150376
>Partake in the toast further?
>>
>excuse yourself and And join kat
Finally a chance to speak in private and apologize but I don't think its necessary anymore then
>go practice with our Phobos
>>
>>5150376
>Excuse ourself and wheel around to Kat.
>Get one toast extra for Kat tho.
hmm what to talk about tho
>Comment on lewd and inappropriate behavior of the Prince. Who would have know that he is pervert and scoundrel to share indirect kiss in public space like that.
>Smell her congratulate her on not smelling like burned chicken it seems she avoided cruel fate of Emperor Class pilot so far.
>>
>>5150376
>Partake in the toast further?
>>
>>5150411
+1
>>
>>5150411
+1, bring a toast with some jam
>Okay, roll your eyes while eating this toast. She's onto something, this stuff is great

Apologize
>>
>>5150589
>>5150465
>>5150411
The pair were really going at it, obviously enjoying their discussion on what might constitute a balanced diet for a Phobos Pilot. "I'm gonna go give Kat some company…" The duo didn't acknowledge your words, Brigitta was busy feeding the prince two different types of spreads. One slice had orange marmalade, the rind a deep shade. The other had a very strong smell of apricot. You excused yourself, standing up and heading back over to your own food. You spot Kat looking away as you start to get up. Gingerly you picked out another slice, one with strawberry jam on it. She didn't pay you any attention as you fell back into your own seat, her breakfast was finished and yet she still sat there.

Slowly she sipped on her drink, not saying anything. You felt a little out of your depth again, but you pushed forward. "Kat, I'm sorry. I may have not told the whole truth when we last talked… about the note. I lied to you a little bit. Sorry." The girl squinted at you, her sharp eyes cutting into your relatively calm exterior. Her brow is full of creases. "Why should I care? I don't know you, there is no need to worry. I don't care what you do or say." She gave you a lashing with her barbed tongue, to top it off she hastily leaned across the table and snatched the toast from your hand. You had brought it for her anyway. You were a little unsure how to counter her argument. Instead you eat your food, enjoying your breakfast the most you can as the girl sits there brooding and occasionally having a bite of toast.

You were going to ask her how her linking was. But the girl spoke the moment you opened your mouth. "So just how close are you and the Zeta girl? You seemed pretty close last night. She even came to your room after beating you up, secret notes and everything… Was that whole fight just for show? what are you two up to?" She spat. Your mouth flapped up and down as you thought about how to reply. She scoffed, shaking her head and taking another bite. Very angrily biting the toast, tearing the piece free with a twist of her head. Like a savage dog. "It isn't like that… no. Not at all. We just talked about it. It's hard to explain" The girl clenched her jaw, chewing the last of toast up vigorously. "It looked pretty straightforward to me…" She declared, standing up and clutching her tray. She went to say something but only let out an angry grumble.

You sat there, you had expected her to be angry and she definitely wasn't happy with the truth. You didn't let it bother you too much. By the time you finished your breakfast you still had a lot of free time before you had to head down. But you were eager to start Phobos training.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Head down to Training. Maybe someone is around
>Head down and watch the other pilots linking.
>Talk to Someone?Write in
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5150644
>Head down and watch the other pilots linking.
>>
>>5150644
>>Head down and watch the other pilots linking.
>>
>>5150644
>Head down and watch the other pilots linking.
See if our ghost is hanging out around there?
>>
>>5150644
>>Head down and watch the other pilots linking.
>>
>>5150666
>>5150735
>>5150740
>>5151014
You decide on going to investigate the progress of the other pilots, with a full stomach and a few hours to waste before your own scheduled training. you leave the rec room, Peter and Brigitta are still in the midst of a discussion. You take your sweet time to travel down, walking at a slow pace and taking in the relaxing stroll. You feel good. Humming to yourself as you wait for the elevator, you have a few others to catch further down. All leading to sub levels and floors you only passed. While you wait another pilot arrives. He's a young man from Delta, tall and for. Dark rings lined his eyes. He barely acknowledged you, clearly still suffering from his linking.

As you both enter the elevator you try to make small talk, keeping a mind active is key to Phobos piloting. Or that was just what you had read. "Howdy, I'm Corporal Mortimer. The Theta Pilot." You actually flash him your card, semi proudly. Just in case he doubted you. He squinted at the card and nodded as he spoke. His voice was nasally and deeper than all the other pilots. "Yeah, I remember you. That girl beat you up… I feel like the damn robot did the same to me." He replied with a chuckle and a wince. "I'm Boris. Just Boris." You held out your hand and he shook it. "Heading down to continue linking? I was gonna go give it a look myself. First time seeing it from the outside." You laughed a little, you were sure he had seen your performance.

Resting against the back wall the man replies cooly. "It is strange. After seeing you and the girl link, I wasn't sure if I could. I guess watching someone suffer is harder than suffering yourself… Well maybe for some people. I imagine sadists love it" he produced his own little chuckle. It seemed you both share the identical skill in comedy. You shared small talk as you continued through the flowing corridors, working together to remember the way you didn't need to ask for directions and finally reach the large Hangar bay, much of the munitions and crates had been shipped somewhere else. Much of the space is now vast and empty. You spot your Phobos. Three stand tall, lined up side by side along the far wall She in all her naked glory was perched atop the exposed Umbral Core. Waiting for you it seems.
>>
>>5151288
You ignore her, focusing on the group of pilots and staff who stand in the shade of a handful of Phobos. Dr Yumigawa spots you and waves happily before returning to talk with her staff. A few of the other commanders are around. Mistress Yuga was nowhere to be seen, she must have really left. You knew it to be true, she didn't have much of a reason to lie to you. A few of them eye you disdainfully, but you didn't know them. Most of the pilots were here, standing around. Those missing are probably busy linking. Alex turns and motions you over. He seemed in high spirits. "He's doing it Morty, Tony is already on auxiliary linking." Alexander points up at a Sabre-Type Prince class. You notice the glint of a lense as a few of the exterior observers focus on you. You give the pilot a thumbs up, his brother throws up a middle finger. A few of the delta boys started to make other obscene gestures when no eyes were on them as well.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to another Pilot?Write in
>Introduce yourself to the Commanders?Write in
>Pay attention to the Linking?
>Head over to your Phobos?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5151289
>Pay attention to the Linking?
>>
>>5151289
>pay attention to the linking
>>
>>5151289
>Pay attention to the Linking?
>Approach Dr Yumigawa
Where else we would get better commentary about going procedure.
>>
>>5151298
>>5151299
>>5151310
You focus on the row of war machines and the children within them, their giant metallic forms tower over you. You felt strange, seeing one being wielded by another person. But you would get used to it, you wondered if they were sharing your own experience inside. You caught the twitch and jolt of nerve links firing off. The Doctor and her staff were busy looking over display charts and in live contact with the pilots. You decide on heading over, working your way through the idle chatter of the group and you greet a couple of the pilots you knew before moving on. You heard the chirp and orders as staff talked to the pilots. Checking for completion status and feeding them further information. You hadn't received such a handholding. You guessed you didn't need it.

The Doctor turns from a holographic display as you reach her, a few staff taking her place. You recognized the readings, they were highlighting the synchronisation rate of Anthony. He was climbing into the high seventies, he was almost out of the third layer it seemed. "Hello Morty! You're looking well, did you come to wish the other pilots good luck?" You smile back, the woman's positivity infectious. Despite being her sister she was almost the counter to Haruki's silent pressure. Bubbling instead of smoldering attention. "Yeah, pretty much. I have training scheduled. So I thought I'd pop by and see how everyone was doing." The woman smiled, gesturing for you to follow her over to the other lab coat wearing people.

She introduces you to the displays, bringing up a more compact version of the representations. A large graph had peaks and valleys steadily rising in sync rate. Tony was doing the best. The other three pilots linking weren't as lucky. One of the Beta candidates, the boy, was struggling to link with a Prince class. His own rate was under 40%. Castilla was back in her own prince, doing better than the clone but clearly struggling. The intervals between her growth were getting longer and longer. The last prince was Grisha, while he wasn't struggling he wasn't excelling either. The doctor pointed out the stages of completion and the intensity of each difference. You didn't remember the long names she gave each. But without pause she moved on to another scale, jumping and diving it showed the neural baselines of each pilot and the current state of anarchy their minds were undergoing.
>>
>>5151711
She explained how it tracked mental fatigue and made it easy to understand the mental defense of a pilot. She indicated your own for example. Like a plane her hand flew high, it was going great. Then it nose divided in the second layer. But after pulling out of the slump you managed to ascend to past heights. She was very impressed, most pilots couldn't replicate the act. You had dropped so far down that the observers were sure you would have to take another go at linking. But you managed to escape. Technically you were the only pilot she had witnessed doing that. She was very interested in examining you further. Her eyes watched you like a piece of meat, or more like a machine to disassemble or a carcass to disect.

It made you uncomfortable, she definitely shared her sister's intensity. You relented and offered her a time when you were free. She hadn't given you much of an option. As if to save you, the hiss of hydraulics pulls your attention away. Tony's phobos was taking it's first few steps. The giant swayed, but kept it's balance as he began to cross the hanger bay. His movements sluggish and careful. Your stride was more of a jaunt in comparison, his sync rate was high. But he was clearly keeping himself from indulging in stricter controls. That might have been your down fall, Alex was already beging to take the long way around. Probably a fifteen minute walk to the other side. Excusing yourself from the woman, you rush over to join him, feeling the shockwaves shake the ground with each clumsy step produced.

Another Prince class Phobos appeared. A senior pilot guiding him in as he slowly began to align for docking. You and Tony were still a way aways. But by the time you reach the pilot was ready to reveal himself. You were surprised to witness a rather naked young mam be birthed from the Umbral Core. Luckily for him no one else was around. A single groan escaped from Anthony as he met the hard metal grating, taking the initiative you and Tony scale the platform. "How'd I do?" The naked pilot asked, squinting against the bright surroundings. "Perfect." You answer "Damn stellar" alex adds in. The Umbral Core didn't eject his suit. And you had no intentions of climbing in there to get it, you had heard rumours about the trouble it would cause.
>>
>>5151714
Together you managed to cloth him partial, he wore your jacket as a skirt and burrowed his brother's underwear. He'd have to go shirtless until they could get him a proper set of clothes. Guiding the pilot to the debriefing room he mumbled compliments until you finally got him onto a sofa, where he promptly fell asleep. You and Alex began the return walk, when you spotted them. A cadre of senior pilots, still wearing their Ace suits. They were on their way somewhere, not even paying you any attention as they pass. You and Alex watched them go on their way. They were a sight. Truly bloodied in battle. You had barely just gotten your toes wet. You still had a few hours left to spare.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to another Pilot?Write in
>Introduce yourself to the Senior pilots?Write in
>Head back to the Linking?
>Head over to your Phobos?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5151715
>Head over to your Phobos?
>>
>>5151715
>Head over to your Phobos?
>>
>>5151715
>Head down to Training. Maybe someone is around
>>
File: wormy.jpg (51 KB, 391x750)
51 KB
51 KB JPG
>>5151732
>>5152092
>>5152103
Watching the pilots go on their way you and Alex begin to return to the hangar bay. He wasn't impressed by their steely attitude. You couldn't help finding them cool. But the sight of professionals sparked an urge to train, to test your metal in a sense of the meaning. You decided to head for your Phobos and just see if anyone was already around. Splitting paths you and Alex exchanged farewells. The walk over wasn't a long one, on the way you spotted a Prince Class Phobos that hadn't been around when you had helped Tony. It was docking alongside the four newly linked Phobos, quickly and smoothly the metal monster climbed into place. The Umbral Core ejected itself the moment the locks were in place. You spot the exterior observers swivel onto you, the pilot had spotted you. You gave them a little wave. You moved over to the stairwell and waited for them to disembark.

Examining the Phobos you spotted some non standard markings. Under the registration Number, #348c was a clearly custom stenciled in name. "Wormy." Sat beside it was a rather large depiction of a green cartoon caterpillar eating its way out of a vibrant red apple. The piece of artwork certainly took some artistic liberties as the apple was bleeding from the wounds. The pilot appears, stealing your attention from the call sign. A sturdy looking woman wore a dive suit, most of her hair was shaved except for a tuff along the top. It was probably some foreign thing, she was the same as the Yumigawa girls. Or similar under your own inspection, you were far from a scholar on the kinds of man. Her eyes focus on you as she begins her descent, not an ounce of wobble or uncertainty was noticeable.

"For your own information I hate go getters." The woman announced as she reached you, holding out her gloved hand. "Pilot Waemi. Pilot Mortimer I presume?" You nod, gleefully producing your identification card. The woman inspects it briefly before handing it back. "Did I tell you I don't appreciate overachievers?" You shrug and reply slightly unsure. "You did…" The woman skirted around you and headed towards the other lined up Phobos, you follow her. Keeping pace. "What one are you in?" She inquired. You point up at the Rapier Type. "I'm piloting that one." The sleek and sharp figure of the slim and bipedal machine stood out uniquely. "It suits you. What do you plan on running with it?" You weren't sure, you hadn't exactly been giving your future prospects much attention. "I haven't looked into it yet." The woman hummed in thought. "I'll send some stuff your way. 391?" She gestures up to the newly painted registration number.
>>
>>5152261
It shares your own. The woman rattled on further about the other Phobos possibilities as you examine both the Longsword and Sabre types. After a few minutes no one else arrives. You were still early. "Well since you are here there is no point in wasting time. Hop in and we'll take the bad boy for a spin round the block." She points to a door, you recognized it, it would lead to the locker rooms. The same ones as your first time linking. Rushing off you climbed into your dive suit and squared away your own clothes. Making a mental note to get your jacket back from Anthony. Pilot Waemi had already linked, her Sabre type squatting down by your own Phobos. She seemed to be inspecting the exterior hull, observers tracing the lines and groves. "Hurry it up Pilot." The woman admonished you through her external speakers. Gingerly you climb the rickety stairway and stand before the Umbral Core.

You couldn't see where She was so you climbed in. Using the same method as before the cool orb absorbed you without any issues. Falling forward you did a flip before settling within the center of the core. Instinctively your mind began to run sequences and instantly the machine responded. Faster than you had expected. External feeds snap on as the hiss and click of the core descending into the body takes place. "Very nice. Let see what you can really do." Waemi said through the LO comms, the vibrations felt in your teeth and the base of your spine. You feel the controls slip into sync with your mind, a sudden weight taking place there. Eyes open and the world is before you, the senior pilot was beside you. Down the bay you could spot the other pilots linking. Happily you watched other staff and workers go about managing the materials within the large area. "Nest Control, Free PD2 over." You hear her speak over the Hi comms, a short reply comes from control as your core feels the latches snap open. "It would be pretty embarrassing if you fell over right now huh?" The woman teased, you ignored it and took your first step. It felt light and floaty. The control is not as tight as when you were naked.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Strip out of the Dive Suit?
>Stay in the Dive Suit?

>Practice Neural Locomotion and other Movement exercises? Body Test
>Practice Layer Diving, Treading and other Mental Endurance exercises? Mind Test
>Practice Neural coordination and accurate Phobos adjustment? Skill Test
>Talk to Pilot Waemi?Write in
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5152262
>Practice Neural coordination and accurate Phobos adjustment? Skill Test
May as well start with what we're best at.
>>
>>5152262
>Stay in the Dive Suit?
>Practice Neural coordination and accurate Phobos adjustment? Skill Test
Mortimer has fear of highs?
>>
>>5152262
>Practice Neural Locomotion and other Movement exercises? Body Test
>>
>>5152262
>Practice Neural coordination and accurate Phobos adjustment? Skill Test
you can only use your muscles when your neurons reach it.
Captcha: 2STAY.
>>
>>5152262
>>Stay in the Dive Suit?
>>Practice Neural coordination and accurate Phobos adjustment? Skill Test
>>
>>5152270
>>5152272
>>5152321
>>5152359
You follow the senior pilot a good few steps away from the docks. The Phobos reacted to your thoughts, but it reacted slowly. You decided to keep on your suit. While she strode you tentatively walked after her, each stride long and careful. "We'll start with some Neural coordination. Get those tiny joints working before we step up our Movements. From top to bottom let's get it going, rotate those joints, and retractor links at a nice small twenty degree turn interval. Basic stuff." You began to slowly tweak the machine as the other phobos turned to watch you, out the corner of your eye you could see another Prince class Phobos becoming unbound. While your metal body ticks through ranges and locked into set intervals you feel the machine respond quicker to each change. Waking up to your touch. Someone else had successfully linked. "Good, Now counter intervals. Double time it, we'll guide that Prince in." You raised an eyebrow at that, mind racing to reproduce the orders in reverse. The thoughts were easy and you counted off each click as the Phobos warmed up to your control. "Think fast!" Waemi declared boldly as her Phobos tossed a long and nobly tool towards you. Flinching within your shell your entire body spins within the liquid core as your phobos tries to catch the piece of equipment.

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 5 + 3 = 19 (3d6 + 3)

>>5152433
>>
Rolled 6, 6, 3 + 3 = 18 (3d6 + 3)

>>5152433
>>5152436
GIGACHAD
>>
Rolled 5, 1, 4 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5152433
Let's see what we get.
>>
>>5152436
>>5152440
>>5152453
19, 18, 13
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Skill Gained

Within the Shell you float, your small hand raises to intercept the giant tool. The Phobos mimics the action perfectly, gracefully grasping it with long magnetic digits. You grinned, feeling the light weight, it must have at least weighed somewhere around a ton or two. "Nice one" Waemi whistled across the comms, with her other hand she gestures to the slowly advancing Phobos. "Paint it up and let's get over there." Turning the object over you found grooves that fit the grip of your Phobos, taking it properly you wielded it like a flashlight. A small opaque window popped up in the peripheral of your sight. Focusing on it the window grew, a bar was filling up as the software was quickly assimilated by the machine. R-PHIF tagger Ready. Blinked red text before flickering away, pointing the long remotelike device at the lumbering giant.

Your observers pulsed, a small window slipping open. An overlay that began to highlight markings and readings. The option to link comms instantly switches on. Bridging the gap, you began to head for the phobos. The Tagger fed you more and more information the longer it remained on the target, even quickly mapping out a meshed blueprint scale overlay of the Phobos. Calculating possible firing angles and detecting structural weakness. The joints glowed crimson while the rest was shades of yellow and greens. The core was a pale dot. Looking over the steady sync rate of the Pilot. You decide to check in on them. "Howdy, this is Pilot Mortimer and Pilot Waemi. We're here to assist. Over." You sent over the LO Comms, the senior pilot let out a snort as her more fluid Phobos easily kept pace.

"Howdy Morty. Polite as always. I actually wouldn't mind a little help… Over." The voice came back was familiar, clearly strained by exhaustion. Castilla had beaten Grisha in their little competition. "Copy That, we've got you. Just take your time Pilot." Waemi replied as you got nearer. The tagger overlay highlighted Cas' Observers lenses, the cameras swaying from left to right. Struggling to focus as she dragged her feet trying to walk. "Take the right Morty, if she loses balance don't go down under her. Just keep her stable. Don't push her over onto me either. Got that? Over." You nod then remember she couldn't see you, you felt silly. "I got it… Over" you reply hastily taking up a spot beside the girl.
>>
File: Cas2.png (574 KB, 1069x898)
574 KB
574 KB PNG
>>5152570
Her Sabre-Type Phobos slightly taller than Wormy's, while your armor was sleek. The Prince had multiple bubbled joints. It didn't look like Wormy's either, legs longer with a shorter body. She stumbles for a second, but you're there. Just like Waemi had said, reaching out within your shell you grasped the tilting machine, simply keeping it standing until she regained her footing. The two Phobos leaning against one another, they felt secure to you. You feel her core reverberate off your own, a cold chill running through your body as She slips out from between the shadows of reality and floats over to the edge of the core, tenderly staring out towards the other pilot. through the LO comms you hear a delicate whispered pair of words. "Thanks Morty."

Castilla: +2

The rest of the walk to the docks is easy. Castilla's sync rate climbed back up as she grew accustomed to controlling the Phobos. After a while to dock the girl managed to climb out, a pair of science staff waiting for her. "Good work, Pilot. But we aren't done yet. That was just to warm up… and it looks like our other guests are finally arriving. Just in time as well." Spinning on her heels Waemi spoke to the two pilots walking over. Robotic hands finding a place at her hips as she sassily tapped her foot on the ground. Haruki and the Prince both wore dive suits, the royal apparently changing his mind on what to wear. His Ace suit is nowhere to be seen. "Just so you both know, I hate go-getters. Now link up, on the double." She blared through her external speakers at the pilots, the prince plugging his ears and Ruki jumped.

The pair scampered towards their machines. With a quick word to command you have them free. "Pilot Haruki, Reporting in. Over." The tall girl announced softly as her Longsword took up a spot beside you. "Pilot Peter, I'm Here. Over." The Sabre added, raising his hand towards the senior. Wormy had them undergo the same light testing that you had but as you went to hand Ruki the Tagger she interrupted you. "Not just yet, Pilot Morty. We will kill two birds with one stone. Pay good attention my little ones. Pilot Morty is now your enemy, that device in his hand contains delicate information. You must catch him and retrieve it. Now! Listen well. Don't get too rough, if you bring him down. Just hand it over, I don't know about either of you pilots but I don't get paid enough to fix whatever you might break." You shrug at the woman's blunt attitude. "The first one to touch him will win. Then we'll go again."
>>
>>5152577
The duo look at you, the tagger popping up multiple attention markers across your shell. Their lenses are right on you. "You get a 5 second lead Morty! Don't waste it!" The woman whooped happily through the comms and began the count down.

!!BODY TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+2
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

>It is an opposed roll. So I will roll for Hakuri and Peter. You are aiming to beat both of them.
>>
Rolled 1, 4, 1 + 2 = 8 (3d6 + 2)

>>5152580
RUN! MORTY RUN!
>>
Rolled 2, 2, 2 + 2 = 8 (3d6 + 2)

>>5152580
>>
File: CherryBoyHunter.png (399 KB, 1080x262)
399 KB
399 KB PNG
Rolled 2, 4, 4 + 5 = 15 (3d6 + 5)

>>5152580
Haruki Target:
>>
Rolled 4, 4, 5 + 2 = 15 (3d6 + 2)

>>5152580
COME ON MORTY
>>
File: LocalToastConnoisseur.png (247 KB, 1080x336)
247 KB
247 KB PNG
Rolled 3, 3, 6 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5152580
Peter Target:
>>
>>5152585
>>5152587
Defender wins?
>>
>>5152619
On Draws Morty always wins. So keep that noted down in case I forget.
Writing now.
>>
>>5152633
15, 8, 8
8, 8, 15
!!TEST PASSED!!

Pivoting you turn and begin to jog away, each hasty step threatening to buckle. Until you feel more comfortable moving, then your rear sensor pinged, two cores reverbated back at you. Floating upside down you spot the pair giving chase, the prince was leading. His Sabre low it's arms almost touching the ground as he chases. Ruki was on his heels, her unit nowhere as fast as your own. But she wasn't giving up. You quickly ran out of area to flee towards. Soon you have to face them down, making a break to the left pushing yourself to pick up the pace.

Surprising Peter enough that in his attempt to turn suddenly he fumbled and ended up running right past you. You grinned as you watched him through your Umbral Core. Another ping caught your attention, Ruki hadn't fumbled. She was heading directly at you, arms wide and ready to catch you. You couldn't do much, clenching your teeth you urged the machine forward. At the last moment possible you dive out of the way. Dashing to the side you were airborne as you brought your body up. The Phobos copies the action as you dash out of the heavy unit's path. You make your way back towards Wormy victorious as the others finally begin to catch up again.

"Keep it up Morty, let's see what they have in them." You lead the other pilots around for another lap. Heart pounding as you escaped again and again, they were getting desperate. Throwing themselves after you. Skirting and skidding along the ground the candidates waiting to link got front row seats to you dancing around the two slower units. Between bouts of angry cursing across the LO Comms, it was mostly silent. But eventually the Senior pilot reels you all in. "Good job everyone. I hope you all learned a valuable lesson, simply knowing what your limitations are will hopefully stop you from putting yourself into an unwinnable situation. Morty had a significant advantage, one so great that to breach the gap you would need additional equipment. You're all naturals. But movement is as basic as it comes. What really makes an Ace stand out from a subpar pilot is functioning within a layer." You all crowd round the experienced pilot as she explains further the next set of exercises.
>>
>>5152740
Diving into the second layer she wanted you all to simply keep pace. Focusing you slip through the shell of your core and sink back into the deep. The freezing cold surrounding you, the world hazy. She is down there with you, her arms trace your own. You feel sick as something toxic seeps into your mind. Through the glossy glaze you attempt to match the steps being taken. Without any shell for safety you could feel the cold beneath your feet, the wind rolling across your starmetal skin.

!!MIND TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+-1
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.
>Target is: 10
>>
Rolled 2, 3, 5 - 1 = 9 (3d6 - 1)

>>5152742
We should put thick boy suite whenever we does this
>>
Rolled 2, 5, 4 + 1 = 12 (3d6 + 1)

>>5152742
GO!
>>
Rolled 3, 2, 5 - 1 = 9 (3d6 - 1)

>>5152742
Don’t job Morty.
>>
>>5152766
>>5152749
>>5152792
9, 11, 9
!!TEST PASSED!!

Your mind shudders, you feel it in your body. Your real body, way up within the Umbral Core. You pushed through the toxic embrace, unrelenting She brings her lips close to your ear. You feel the wind tickling it, painfully growing and twisting as the words She breathes rakes across your face. You couldn't make them out. You ignored them, you didn't need them. Through the haze you focus on walking, the steady pace keeping your entire attention. You failed to notice that Ruki and the other Pilots had stopped. Only when Waemi's voice reaches you do you snap out of the daze. "You alright Morty? Don't let your Sync rate drop." You glanced around. You had taken a few steps beyond the group, you could feel the terrible echoes of the movements within their own cores.

Like the sloshing of waves within your deadened mind, they were fighting to resurface. "I'm fine, just focusing on treading water." You mumble back, focusing on leaving the second layer you swim back up. Watching carefully for any hint of the Core trying to pull you in further, thankfully you flop into the first layer safely. The rest of the session is spent dipping on and out of the first and second layer. Practicing until exiting and entering were honed to a degree. Through every push She was in there waiting for you. Silent and watching, apparently content to just stare at you. You thought she might have weakened as you grew accustomed to the awful depth. Before long you are all struggling to exit and the Senior Pilot is content to focus back on accurate controls. The trio of you take turns tagging and inspecting the situation of each of the pilots linking.

It only took Grisha a few more hours than Castilla, but before the day was done you had escorted him to the docking sites. With his success you were all dismissed, more pilots climb into a hell of their own making as they continue to try and link. But you were officially off duty. By around five in the afternoon You and Haruki. Along with only the minimal amount of effort from the Prince succeed getting Grisha into the debriefing room. "I thought you got lost." Castilla boasted cheekily, clapping as she spotted the group lugging the tall boy onto a nearby sofa. You all fell into your own seats, dropping in beside the prince you feel exhausted. Ruki fell across the pair of you. Resting her head in your lap. The prince huffed but was too tired to try and free himself from the girl. Cas was playing a game of connect four with Tony, you didn't have the slightest idea where they had found the game.
>>
>>5153019
Tony was clearly in the process of losing. He seemed to jump at the chance to change the subject. "You look like shit!" He declared, wincing at the weary young man laying on the sofa. You thought Grisha was just as handsome, maybe even more with the ragged twist. Almost like a hero from a novel. "I feel like it too." Grisha replied through a groan as he readjusted himself along the wide piece of leather furniture. Castilla took the opportunity to slip free from her own seat and mount the wounded youth. Straddling him. "I guess that means I've won! Again!" She stated with a broad grin before lunging at the boy, her lips locking onto his. You avert your eyes and spot Tony removing one of the girl's pieces. He whooped and cheered at the display of affection, giving you a sly wink while the piece causing him trouble steadily climbed up and out.

Haruki looked away from the pair as their tongues violently fenced, locking eyes with you she then blushed. Quickly closing her eyes to escape the situation. "How… Lewd." The Prince declared as he cleared his throat loudly, not bothering to look away. With a pop the girl unsealed herself from Grisha's lips, fist pumping the air. Her reserved and calm persona was thrown aside for the moment. "I should lose more often." Grisha added, he earned himself a soft slap to the cheek. The pair cuddled as everyone relaxed. Muscles you rarely used complained at every movement, the freedom to float and hang at strange angles wasn't appreciated when you were back under the oppressive governing of gravity.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to another Pilot?Write in
>Relax and just enjoy the moment?
>Challenge someone to Connect Four?Write In
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5153026
>Relax and just enjoy the moment.
Ask Ruki how she likes her Phobos.
>>
>>5153026
>>Relax and just enjoy the moment?
>>
>>5153026
>Relax and just enjoy the moment?
>>
>>5153026
>So there is this question that hanged in air for some time... Should we get payed?
>>
>>5153026
>Relax and just enjoy the moment?

I also demand headpats for Haruki.
>>
Who also believes in tank superiority?
>>
>>5154749
Bolos are cheating bro, those things are basically magic.
>>
>>5154816
Maybe, but aren't they awesome?
>>
>>5154878
Yes

More realistically I expect well run into something like late era Battletech tanks with mech killing loadouts.
>>
>>5154931
Yeah I was thinking something like that, just used Bolo art because it looks cool.
>>
>>5153026
>>Relax and just enjoy the moment?
>>
>>5153277
>>5154527
You accept the opportunity to rest, leaning back and allowing the sofa to ease you into it's tender grip. All along your body muscles cried out, what was tight and stiff beginning to slacken. The Prince had produced his own slim device, a tablet that birthed from it an opaque display. Peter notices you watching and turns his hand to hide the screen. The boy exhales through his nose and continues with the thing concealed. You shrug and turn your attention elsewhere, a yawn escaping from you. Haruki did the same, stretching out her long body before turning to face you. "How is it going with your Phobos? Do you like it?" You asked Ruki, her slim eyes waver for a second before she manages to produce a slim smile.

She wiggles her way closer to you, talking low even though you were the only one who could understand the words. "It's okay. I'm sure I'll get the hang of it. Linking was weird... I've seen things, but I know they aren't real. They can't be. Even though I can feel things in there. Memories made instantly. Tastes, places, faces. I'm sure it'll fade. What about you?" Haruki was telling the truth, she hadn't lied to you yet. You doubted she would. She looks away, clearly embarrassed a little by the reveal. Her worn thoughts probably hounded her, maybe she was imagining your reaction. Maybe you'd scorn her, judge her for her openness. Be hateful or rude. You wouldn't, the same thing had happened to you. Even the prince was hesitant to address the possibility of something even happening.

"Me too. I've been seeing things. A lot of pain and sorrow. Cold. Death. I think I see my home, it's all a mess. I see this… figure. It stalks me. She stalks me." Ruki's eyes were soft, dark and deep the orbs glinted wetly, catching the light they swallowed you up. You stared into her, the long girl simple watching up back at you through sleepy eyes. Haruki seemed to have been expecting something. You weren't sure what she might want, you ignored the pair who had returned to kissing in the background. Everyone was ignoring the display. Tony even takes the game up against himself. You couldn't reach her shoulders, you settled on patting her head. soft and short the strangs of her hair slipped smoothly through your fingers, you liked it. Ruki shifts giving you a better angle, gladly accepting the gesture, as you go to stop her hand grabs your own. Without saying anything she returns it to her head, clearly not satisfied yet. You pay the girl's head more attention, ruffling her hair further you didn't notice when she had fallen asleep but before long you joined her.
>>
>>5155695
The world is cold. Dead and sleeping. Mortimer wished he could join the nothing and succumb. To cease. To stop struggling. To finally rest. To really rest. But he couldn't. Against the cold, the touch of death that freezes so hard it burns. Peeling away skin with a whisper and shattering bones with a shout. The storm screamed, the same scream that echoed in his mind. Within the mind he shared. She was dead. It was the truth and it was crushing. Unrelenting, like the storm inside and outside. He opened his eyes, the world of white flickering as he floundered. His Phobos kept the pace he set, sinking deep into the snow with each step his machine threatening to freeze and become his tomb. Oh how he wished for it to happen. But it wouldn't. The Umbral Core exuded a great exhaust of heat, the matted ice sloughing off. Shadows wander in the pale, fading in and out of existence. His mind was just another enemy. The world eager to end him, with a desperate screech the storm climbed to a crescendo. Building up to the mighty climax. With a howl of alien voices he broke through the torrent of snow, body burning as he raised his weapon. The burst and burn of smoke and fire joining in. He was death incarnate. Leaving only ash and hate in his wake. The fury that walked. The Sleeping Deimos. The Raving Phobos.

You woke up with a start, eyes straining against the light of the room. You were sweltering. For a second back in the walls of winter. But as you blinked away the dream your mind stirs from slumber. The nightmare is gone. Cold replaced with warm. She was in your arms now, her breath hot on your throat. Ruki mumbled, face twisting in annoyance at the Interruption to her sleep. Mind still hazy as you inspect the room, the Beta pilot was resting by himself. Katerina was playing against Alex, the boy smiling and raising both hands to gesture at himself as he noticed you wake. A few others were gathered around the connect four. Peter had seemingly made his great escape while your mind was resting, now he stood on the far side of the room.

Chatting to a bleeding Grand duke. The other boy didn't seem to be out of it. Ruki rolled off you, the cool sweeping in. Rubbing your eyes it was pretty late. You make your way to the crowd, low voices exchanging loose words. The room lulled, energy draining as the night wore on. You sensed the calm in the air, only an ounce of tension to poison it. The showdown. Alex had the clear advantage, two seperate rows of three red coins lay ready. Waiting for Kat to missplace one of her own. She was running out of empty slots. Countinh down each empty space, she had already lost. Turn after turn all the empty spaces were filled. And inevitablely she placed her last piece. Alex howling in victory as his made four in a row. The crowd clapped. Kat hadn't just accepted her defeat and given up. The girl marched right into the end.
>>
>>5155696
With the deed settled all the other pilots began to scatter in the wind. The final tether breaking free. Before you know it the wind carries you back into the unit's floor. The crowd flowing and dividing apart into seperate smaller groups as each heads towards their quarters. You end up walking the corridors with Alex, Tony and Dimitri. The delta youth busy explaining the correct way to detect explosive residue. It was an intersecting topic, but you couldn't remember for the life of you how the conversation had reached it. "-it is pretty simple." The boy paused, stopping the pace he had set to pull back his sleeve and check his watch. "Fifteen to twelve. Guard rotation is about to change, how about we take a midnight stroll through the city?" You were stunned, your mind full to the brim with questionable knowledge. You dumped his first topic to focus entirely on the second.

"What do you mean?" Alexander ended asking first as you and the boys stood around confused. "Outside. In. The. City. Let's Go." Dimitri sounded out each word slowly, clearly disappointed by the lack of out right support for his well thought out plan. You snickered. "How are we going to get out into the city? How are we even going to get off base?" Anthony asked incredjously, the idea under scrutiny by everyone present. Dimitri just sighed, tutting like a teacher who had caught her rambunctious students up to no good. "Oh sweet summer children. With this ofcourse… made it myself." Reaching into his trousers the boy jostled around before unveiling a very suspicious looking device. Clearly home made, improved from some sort of tester and service cables. A few crude boards soldered on in places. "What the fuck is that. Is that a fucking bomb?" Alex stammered, the first topic a little more relevant now. You raised an eyebrow, taking a step back just in case.

The Delta boy was something else. Tony side stepped away as Dimitri holds it out for him to inspect. Grinning like a mad man. "A lock tumbler. It's an espionage tool. It picks electronic locks. Well technically it just tricks them, but same thing. It opens doors we can't." Huh well, it was something. But seeing it actually work. That was something else entirely. "You're insane or retarded." Alex started, "Why not both." Tony finished. Both boys had their hands on their hips, heads tilting as they tried to understand further. Raising his hands in defense Dimitri tired to clear his idea up. "At least I'm not sober." It didn't reassure anyone. Under three sets of intense eyes he relented further. "God, what a bunch of babies. With the Tumbler we can open doors. Ok. With our uniforms, and the change in guard we are less likely to be caught. Simple as. Bingo. Out in Kahva. Just do the same coming back in. Are you in or not?" He said with a huff, clearly set on gallivanting.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Tag along?
>Return to your room?
>Bring someone else along?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5155697
>What do you say? Write in.
This better be fucking worth it.
>Tag along?
>>
>tag along
Fuck it let's go,just don't bring anyone with us in case this blows up in our faces
>>
>>5155697
>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.
>Tell Dimitri that we appreciate his ingenious and outgoing nature but he must be retarded. Not only we risk getting shot but potentially getting banned from our first leave and our first paycheck that we are not so sure if we get any in the first place...
>Do something else?Write in
>Contact someone to get access to terminal
>Find out about other facilities on the base
>>
>>5155722
anon do you honestly believe that they aren't tracking one of the 3 rare emperor Phobos 24/7,if the first part of this stunt works then everything is halal and we go adventuring
>>
>>5155697
>Tag along?

Honestly our boy could use a break.
>>
>>5155706
>>5155720
>>5155850
Time was clicking, a bold and bumping rhythm within your blood. "This better be fucking worth it." You declared, the gamma bros clearly goaded by your choice. Dimitri grins, eyes wide an excited. "Isn't it always. What is the point in living with risk?" Spinning on his heels he glides down the hallway. You jog up beside him, the both powerfully walking down the corridor. His fingers danced on the crude piece of equipment, a low whiny beep echoed out from it. Alexander and Anthony faulted, standing there bodies twisting back and forth as they weighed their options. Promptly they gave chase. The gaunt faced boy led you through corridors like a blood hound, the beeping intensifies as he pauses in the middle of a corridor. The device led him to the wall. You all watched expectantly, he delivers a mean kick to it. Instead of snapping through soft plaster board the tiny bang of metal replied.

A hollow echo. "Got yah, been searching for this little shit lord for the last few days. Security delivery service elevator. In case we get uppity." You shared looks with your fellow pilots, mostly a mix of fear and surprise. The tension in the air bubbled higher with each step. With a hiss the panel pealed back, revealing a rather large interior. Enough space for ten or fifteen men. Well that was a surprise. Who knew what other secrets were hidden throughout the building. Rushing inside you all huddled together within the big space. "This is crazy." Alex mumbled as the door hissed back into place. "For real" the remaining three of you replied in unison.

Dimitri's fingers were busy trotting like the hooves of some demon, the smooth panels within the elevator flickered and began to roll through display screens. Clearly being affected by the device. Time drummed on. And you all fell, you felt your stomach climb into your throat as each other grabbed one another. The metal box falling through the tower of glass. Floor numbers rolled by as you zipped down and down. Into the three hundreds before. Slowing and stopping. Thankfully, the ride had left you all shaky. Knees wobbling as you exit. "Slip off the jackets. We are off duty! Youth officers, so play up the arrogance. You are all the ball batter of some gentry dickhead." You blinked at the colourful wording, slipping free and carrying it under your arm like some prize.
>>
>>5156104
The hallway was less refined than above, simple painted brick and pipes traced the ceiling above you. It smelt damp. Mossy and damp. Dimitri for some reason chose to wear his jacket on his shoulders like a grand coat, sleeves hanging free as he strutted the way forward. He had the junior officer act nailed. Another person appears, a worn looking staff member, your weary thoughts bloomed. Maybe he'd spot you all and give you away. He might raise the alarm and get you all in deep trouble. The hairs stand up on your arms, climbing up your neck until you felt like the hair on your head was standing straight on end. He says nothing as your small group compacts to allow him to pass, he manages a weak nod. Mind clearly elsewhere. Continuing you end up in a corridor with one wall entirely glass. You watch out into the city, like a beast it towered through the long night.

You felt relief well up and flood your body. That hadn't gone bad. Then you rounded a corner and you blood ran cold. Down the stretch of space you could make out a thick and heavy door, a vault door. The entire way was full of meandering guards, some half dressed. Others smoking and talking. Clearly rotating out. Panic sprung up like a weed in your mind. You climbed into you shell, dulling the emotion and focusing on yourself. Playing it cool as the kids say. You all spread out, pace slowing as you wove your way through the crowds. Eyes on you, words made out in the hum of activity. Dimitri was ahead, he had been stopped by two men.

You wanted to curse, Alex was at your side. Elbowing him you start to converge on the delta pilot. "-anks mate. Been dying for a smoke all day, me and the lads gonna grab a drink and see if we can get lucky." The insane pilot was making small talk and bumming a smoke. You were actually impressed by his boldness. Damn youth officers. You made out though the noise as taller people bounced you about. Fighting the tide of off duty security you make it to your friend. The guard produced two bent cigs, handing one to Dimitri and placing the other between his lips. "Lucky little shits." The guard mumbled as he light up and began to light Dimitri's stick. "Jammy bastards. Take a drink for us while you're out there." You and Alex finally make it up beside the other pilot, the two security officers examining you all. Seemingly unaware of who you truly were.
>>
>>5156107
The crowd seperates you down the corridor with little opportunity to say goodbyes. But Dimitri leads you further on. His smoke signals giving him away. The mass of bodies thins and you all reform into a block, the other boys were clearly ruffled and wavering. "Keep it up guys. We are almost out." You add, hoping you were telling the truth. Finally halting at the heavy door Dimitri went to work, his device encompassing the door controls. Discreetly you crowded him, exchanging feigned conversation. A barrier to any straying eyes. "Hurry up." Anthony wined, impatiently tapping his foot. Dimitri just huffed in annoyance. With a familiar beep the vault door began to cry out a claxon. The brothers jumped, panic in their eyes as it swung wide. Creeping open the vault door led down into another vast hallway.

Dimitri hopped through and you followed. The gamma boys would have to make up their own mind. You heart was pounding, Dimitri was doing an amazing job. You strut onwards, keeping pace with him. "This is going better than I expected. It's working." You say, chancing a glance over your shoulder. The large vault was further away now, finally on its closing cycle. Alex and Tony just a few steps behind. The point beyond shared the cruder quality as the rest of the floor you were on, the delta pilot seemed to have an idea of where to go and before long you were all entering an empty locker room, the smell of stale sweat and boot polish heavy in the air. Rushing about Dimitri looked under benches and tables, then finally slid a box out.

A cardboard box had crudely been written on. 'Lost and found' "seriously?" You asked as he began pulling out clothes. "Keep your trouser on, I have no plans to escape and freeze my balls off all night." From the pile he produces a worn motorcycle coat, and sweater. He tossed those to towards you, hesitating only for a second you quickly put then on. You were warmer now, you hoped it would help. Dimitri wasted no time throwing each boy a wide array of garments. Alexander got a varsity jacket and pair of gloves that were too big. Anthony got an ugly purple parka and ear muffs. Dimitri simply put on a furry shaped ushanka and a patchwork scarf, content to keep his jacket on his shoulders. With the group dressed inconspicuous from the waist up he led you back out.
>>
>>5156112
Through more grim corridors he led, the walk ways shrinking in size as you passed through further locked doors. Until finally you feel the low vice of cold. Your breath began to leave wide plumes of condensation in the air. You all approached the final door. "I have to admit. Gamma and Theta produced some insane pilots. None of those pussies back in Delta even dared to come." He announced somewhat proudly turning to watch each young man in the eye. You thought he might have a point. But there was no point on turning back now. "You two are crazy as crazy as it comes!" Alex laughs. "For real!" His brother adds.

Dimitri: +8
Alexander: +8
Anthony: +8

Without further ado Dimitri opens the last door, winds snapping it against his hands. You all push through the cold blast, snowflakes dancing into the small space. Whipping around wildly. The storm mixed with sirens and blaring noise as the world grows into your eyes. Far up above and deep below it writhes, bold florucent light signs and vast holograms adverts burn vigorously. You spotted the time, 12:01 burned in bright red high above. Slamming the exit shut it locked as you all stood on a wide and elevated path. You were outside, your eyes drank on everything. Ignored the cold. Heart pumping boiling blood through you. Bunching up against the whipping winds Dimitri spoke loud so you could all make him out. Another tablet appearing, snow quickly littering the screen. It showed a map with multiple markers on it. "I did a little research about places nearby. We've got, the Basement Jacks, an underground music bar. Or Augmented gyration a dance club. Willies' Dive a popular all-night diner. Or Sunny dees, a titty bar. Or we could piss about out here all night and get mugged." You all exchanged glances over the wide array of choices.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Hit up the Music Bar?
>Hit up the Club?
>Hit up the Diner?
>Hit up the Titty Bar?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5156115
>Hit up the Club?
Let's hit the club.
>>
>>5156115
>>Hit up the Club?
Also lend some money from our bros
>>
>>5156115
>Hit up the Club?
>>
>>5156115
New plan. Let’s get mugged, and take whatever he has on him. Easy cash, unless you guys have some spare?

This is only half joking, because we’re 4 fairly competent trained dudes, and again, we have no money, so going to a diner would be just sad
>>
>>5156115
>>Hit up the Club?
>>
>>5156115
>Hit up the Club?
Would be funny if we meet our mistress there.
>>
Club, then diner

Order of operations people.
>>
File: cyberpunk-city-art-34.jpg (429 KB, 1920x1080)
429 KB
429 KB JPG
>>5156229
>>5156331
"I'm down to check out the club." You state, the other boys nod happily for any deciding factor. "They call the place the Aug-G kinda sounds like orgy right?" Dimitri fired out as he went back to working on his tablet. "Who's They?" Alex asks, putting a little pressure on the young man. "Party heads and the like. It's just a name." He shrugs as you set off in a closely knit band. "I've got no money, how will we even get in?" You inquired, the idea suddenly seeming less plausible. Dimitri pulls a thin black stick from his trouser pocket and waves it in the air. "I've got us covered, we'll hit up a cashpoint at the under-tram station and split some." The squirrelly youth seemed to have planned or at most semi planned the outing. "They let in all sorts of jacked up weirdos in too, so we don't gotta work about how we are dressed. Just say it's called post-military avant-garde or some artsy fartsy shit."

Well the boy had convinced you, huddled together and you all marched away from the large building that housed the entire unit. Breaking into a jog as you all became more noticeable on the rather empty walkways, at the sub street you all began to slow and turn. People were around now, the place that was your new home still towered in the distance. But you were a turn away from blending into the crowds. You get a good look at the colossal building, the thing was cyclopean even compared to the other skyscrapers you could see. It was black, almost as dark as the night that surrounded it in war with the illumination of the metropolitan area. [spoilers]She[/spoilers] would vanish against its glass walls, maybe she was even up there. Waiting and watching you. Lights dotted a few windows up it, but it was mostly unlit. The majority of the massive building vanished up into the low clouds above.

But you had no time to think further, Dimitri wasn't waiting for anyone as he dived headfirst into the vast city. Alex and Tony basically pull you along. The wide and long streets were a mix of metal and concrete like the branches of a tree. They led to other small paths or climbed and descended to different levels of the city. Lights blinked as music played in the distance, you passed a man drumming on a makeshift set, the snow barely bothering him. The cold wind nipped at your heels. The crowds and groups of small people made you uneasy as you wormed your way down block after block. But none even gave you a wink of attention, laughing and talking amongst themselves. All busy going about their own business.
>>
File: akira-anime.gif (2.17 MB, 498x266)
2.17 MB
2.17 MB GIF
>>5157073
Vehicles honked and transport rails rattled and groaned as the various means of traversing the vertical city never slept. Like some great beast the city prowled. You felt weary but excited, happily pointing things out to the boys. Strange foreigners, dark skinned or with vibrant hair. With almost every blink you spotted something new or only heard about. You all stick together. Dimitri pointed out a sign up ahead, floating above a set of black metal staircases was what appeared to be a bus or tram. But the wheels lined the top of the cart. "We'll catch a tram there." He added, reassuring everyone of the plan. The gang only grew more excited, Tony pointed out a homeless man. On a thin piece of damp cardboard it had 'Veteran' crudely written on it. Both his legs were missing, while one arm was an ancient piece of augmented limb. It was missing a hand. You all mumbled in awe and horror as the old man began to shout at you.

Increasing your pace, you weren't worried about him chasing you down. But his shouting did bother you. Most on the street avoided him. "Hello ladies." Dimitri said in his best attempt at a suave voice. The two girls looked close to your age, both blonde. They squinted in disgust and kept climbing the stairs as your group passed them. You felt the mutual embarrassment wear you all down a little. "Smooth!" Tony giggled before breaking out into laughter, you joined in. "Shit man, save some of them for us." Alex laughed. Dimitri waves you away, clearly embarrassed the most. The thin steps climbed down, hanging like moss from a bridge. Along the underside of the main road the tram station hung, bolted on and held up by numerous supports. You feel your tummy flex a little as you look through the gaps in the grated steps.

Under your feet you could make out the next set of streets below. They were even more heavy with traffic than the one you had been on, street side stalls and even performances were glimpsed in the bright lights below. Since they were above the ground still you presumed they also had the same tram system underneath. A tram howled passed you, jumping in fright. You felt your heart stop beating for a second. The other boys doing the same as the few people around barely seemed bothered. "Fuck!" You mutter. The team reiterates the word as you all hastily descend onto the metal and concrete platform. Even though you couldn't see the city below anymore, with each tram zipping past clinging to the ceiling of the street you feel the entire platform trembling.
>>
>>5157077
After a little fumbling around by a commerce machine Dimitri produces a handful of money. "You boys losing earned me this Genny, so only fair you get a share." The brothers look surprised but take their cuts. You each got a hundred Genny in various bills, following him over to the ticket machine Dimitri showed you how to purchase a ticket for the day. Alexander and Anthony both clearly knew how to operate the bulky thing and got their own without any help. You couldn't help wondering what made you stick out so much, what made everyone know something wasn't right. That you were missing something. The pilot didn't seem to mind the task, he even seemed to enjoy showing you all the options available. And with your disposable cards in hand you all head through the small personal turntables and out onto the platform proper.

The doorway ate your little card and popped it out on the other side as you walked through. Alex explained how you could tell what tram was your own, a big spider nest of lines stretched across a very detailed map of the city you didn't know. Each was numbered and followed a set route back and forth. The idea did make sense to you. You surprisingly understood how trains worked. But the boys seemed to really get into explaining stuff they might have taken for granted. The tight and reserved attitude of the base falling away. You felt strange, only then had you realized you were smiling. With the squealing of brakes the lesson on the effective way to disarm a gunman is cut short. But you think you have gotten the gist. Even despite the bickering as each argued their own opinion on the correct way.

Climbing aboard was a rush, the metallic and plastic can was filled with people, pushing through the crowd you managed to crowd around an exit. Voices were in abundance as people joked and argued all along the vessel. With the grinding of metal and the automated warning voice the journey continued. You were all laughing now, the topic of girls slipping up from somewhere as Dimitri attempted to impress more young women. They all hounded you for advice. After all, you had Haruki. They tease you, jesting about if your wife found out about going out to party. She'd probably beat up all of them for dragging you around. You felt a little embarrassed by the idea. You were actually unsure how she would react. But the chatter became low whispers as the tram slowed as it pulled into another stop, more people got off and a few tram officers climbed on. Their uniforms prim and proper.
>>
File: cyberpunk-city-art-36.jpg (667 KB, 1920x1080)
667 KB
667 KB JPG
>>5157080
You worried for a second they'd be after you. "Relax, they are probably just checking tickets." You climb into your shell anyway, face dropping all emotion as you're unaffected by the surrounding world. It all was blurred and yet still in focus. Up through the crowd they worked, ticketing a few offenders before finally reaching your little squad of pilots. "Tickets please." An old gentleman asked with his hand out, you all complied. Handing him your day passes. "Thank you." He replies as he returns them. Heading off without any further issues. You slipped from your shell, breathing a sigh of relief. Dimitri was staring at you a little worried. "Morty, never do that freaky shit around me again, it made my skin crawl." You shrug, unsure how to reply.

The other boys laugh, elbowing you. "The officer must have shit his pants, you kept staring at him like a nutter." Alex added. "For real." The topic changes and you mostly listen to the others bicker about music as the tram passengers fluctuate. And as the tram was almost empty you all got off. Flowing back from the sub street your group ends up back into the pumping veins of a city. The smell of food rich in the area as drunk people stumble about and purchase what they can. Complaining about his map giving trouble, you all resort to asking strangers. Despite the hesitation you approach a young woman, piercings cross her lips, eyes and ears. She jingles softly as she turns to face you. Being polite you inquire, the girl smirking before giving you the directions.

Tattoos in glowing ink lined her face and neck. Her friends notice you, your apparel sparking a few questions. Despite the snow you had unbuttoned the leather jacket, very tempted to remove the striped sweater all together within the heat of the crowds. One called you cute and before long the boys were pulling you away. They had also gotten directions. Within the buzzing hive you work your way, tempted to spend the money you had on the delicious smelling foods. It wasn't long before you turned down a side route. The main street becoming a tiny path, you slipped into a column to allow other drunks and party goers by. You couldn't help locking eyes with some of the passing people, a drunk girl even blowing you a kiss for your trouble. You knew you were getting closer. The path dropped down a few levels as the area became seedier.
>>
>>5157081
The bass shaking the grating of the steps you descended. The music was pounding from a building ahead. The street was littered with a horde of people. Dressed very uniquely, some wore entirely leather or were mostly undressed. Skimpy dress and shirts too tight to hide the muscles under them. Each pilot stood out, dressed like a different era in history. Thankfully everyone was busy minding their own drunk business. Further in the ground shook with the pounding of the bass. Crudely displayed overhanging a wide set of doors you could make out the flickering hologram. It read 'Augmented Gyration' the Aug and G flickering on and off independently. You were finally at the place,

The gang crowds together while Dimitri slapped your backs, rushing you all to quickly join the back of the line. A few of the more appropriately dressed party goers gave your little cadre examining looks but no one said anything. Their fancy and erratic hair becomes the topics of your own discussion. You had to wait a while as the club slowly ate more and more people. But before long a group of burly men are your last bulwark. You were ready to charge the line, each young pilot producing their entrance fee when asked. You could feel the scrupulous eyes of the tough men on you. But without any words they gestured for you to enter. The music deafened you almost instantly, your eardrums throbbing. The music was loud. Many people stood around with drinks in hand or smoked.

Some very unique smells tickled your nostrils but before long you were getting closer to the main hall. In the centre of the wide room was a throng of dancing people. Bodies mashing together with the rhythm, alot mashing together out of rhythm. Over the bassy tracks you group decided on heading for a corner. You had to shout into each other's ears and settle on finding a table or corner booth. You could make out a few empty ones scattered around. The bar was on the far side, packed with people. Dimitri left you all to establish a base of operations and you caught a better look of the club. You were only on the first floor or so you thought. Spotting the odd ceiling above it gave you an eyeful. Up above feet mashed panels of glass, you glimpsed up the skirts of women. Many are not wearing underwear. "Holy fuck" you said, no one heard against the eclipsing tune and bump.
>>
>>5157081
Alex noticed and shot a thumbs up before nudging Tony to investigate the floor above. You wondered how many floors there were, turning your attention to your own feet you noticed the floor was the same type of tempered glass. Crowds rocked and rolled below you. You swore She could be amongst them and you'd never notice. Reaching a booth you all climb in, it was small but offered some bastion as the majority of party goers focused on the center. Slipping free from your jacket and sweater before the heat got to you the boys did the same. Playing rock paper scissors. Anthony was burdened with the responsibility of minding your coats. Now you all stood out, dressed almost exactly the same. The berets on your head are the only varying factors. The only one Dimitri had forsaken. Military trousers and slim fitting black undershirts left you looking like an actual gang.

Then the crazy mastermind reappeared, in his hands and struggling the boy carries four boldly coloured bottles. Plopping them down on the table he whipped off his own coat. Leaving the ushanka on his head and casting his beret to the security guard. Pulling out his tablet the device snapped out a wall of light that blinded you as he took a few pictures of each man. You raised your fingers in the peace sign as the brothers made funny faces. Climbing over the table to harass you. Both kissing a cheek in one of the pictures. Keeping your heads almost lips to ear you talked. "To the mad bastards of the Theta and Gamma unit." He toasted. You held the drink in your hand, the others reaching out to clink together.

>Do you drink, Pilot?
>Yes or No?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Hit the Dance floor?
>Get some more drinks?
>Hang out in the booth?
>Explore the club?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5157089
>Do you drink, Pilot?
>Yes, but not that hard, someone's gotta get the lads home.
>What do you say?
Does anyone want some advice of the lovemaster?
What's our plan when shit goes south?
Anyone know any drinking games?
>>
>drink a little
>hit the dance floor and show them the Phobos dance
>complain to your bros about how bullshit it is we don't get paid
>ask which girl they have their eyes on
Anyone of these
>>
>>5157089

>Do you drink, Pilot
Yes.

Then

> Hit the Dance floor

These things have a traditional order.
>>
>>5157089
>>Do you drink, Pilot?
Yes
>Hit the Dance floor?
>>
>>5157098
>>5157123
>>5157163
>>5157398
"Cheers to that!" You shout, the other probably not hearing you. Bottles bounced and you all drank. The liquid was sweeter than you had expected, it was fizzy and tasted like artificial strawberries. It was pretty good. You let out a sigh of satisfaction, leaning back into the leather seat. Body at ease. You sip as the small group leans together exchanging loose words and laughing. Your eyes danced across the women and men who flowed in and around the club. Sooner than you had expected the bottle was empty. It was so good you hadn't noticed how quickly you had drunk it. You felt strange, a thrum spreading through your body that wasn't birthed by the music.

You let out a soft happy smile, the thrum shifted into a faint pressure within your head. Resting atop your nose and brow. It was kicking in pretty quick. "So do any of you hopeless goons need the guiding hips of the Lovermaster?" You laughed, the boys leaning in did the same. "Lovermaster Morty, ladies and gentlemen." Alex teased clapping as sarcastically as someone could. "What bastion of insight do you have that we don't?" Dimitri inquired. "Yeah." Tony contributed. "It's simple my fellow scholars, you all have that attitude and fiendish hunger. But it stains you, the pheromones give you away even when on your best behavior. Plus Dimitri you're an ugly bastard. I've got those boyish looks and charm going for me." The others shook their heads in befuddlement, laughing at your wild declaration.

Dimitri stood up, holding out his hand. "Chip in for the next round fuckers." You all did and he vanished into the mesh of party people. A few giving you looks. "So who do you have your eyes on, lads?" You looked back and forth between the young men. They were pretty handsome in your eyes, the general reaction of girls in their vicinity gave it away. They were earning looks of appreciation and desire here too, well that's what you contributed it to. They just didn't seem to notice, you wondered if any of those eyes settled on you. "Not really, I'm still on the hunt" Alex answers. You bop your head to the beat as Tony speaks. "I might have someone in my sights." Coyly like any love shy boy would be, you weren't even used to social interactions and could tell.
>>
>>5157450
Maybe you were just a social butterfly. You could also be an excellent detective. You were yet to settle on what skill suits you best. "Well it seems like Lucy has got an eye on you." You add testing the waters, watching the pilot for any hint of a reaction. He looked right at you. "You don't say..." You grin, a little bit more confident in your own hunch, the guiding hands of alcohol increasing your boldness. "You wouldn't have happened to be paid a visit late at night, Say after getting a beating?" You asked with a grin. Alex clearly sensed the growing tensions and suspicion. Tony seemed shocked, stammering before blushing. "How did you know that?" It was an almost wild guess spurred on by the alcohol in your system. But it seemed to be accurate. Alex is shocked, head snapping between the pair of you amazed. Tony is blushing. "What happened!" His brother demanded to know, you grinned but it quickly turned into a mad cackle.

Dimitri reappears, four long plastic cups containing a multicoloured liquid. Like the colour spectrum it changed through various shades as it descended. "What the fuck are those?" The idiot grinned like a fool and gave you all one. It was fruiter than you expected and exceptionally sweet. Conversation lulled as you all sucked up the drinks. The faint pressure became heavier and tighter. "Explain!" Alex declared and after a little hesitation and some cheerful jabs the boy relayed the events of that night. After returning to his quarters, balls all bruised to hell and back he was in a pretty sour state. Then Lucy from Alpha knocked on his door, they talked and she checked him over.

You all hollered like beasts at that but the flustered youth insisted she hadn't checked his balls. Anyway they ended up hitting it off and one thing led to another and suddenly they made out for a good bit before it was too late. Alex was wounded by his brother's secrecy and Dimitri was enraged by the possibility that there were three other pilots who were already pairing off with the limited number of girls. "Damn females!" The gaunt faced youth roared, brow furrowing. "How did you know?" Tony asked? "Well I had my own encounter that night. I may have crossed paths with her on the way home. You both really keep it on the down low." You smirk again, feeling light, your skin cool and nice.
>>
>>5157453
As you turn the world turns slowly. A pressure resting behind each eyelid, every blink slowing as the drink worked more and more. "So what is the plan if things go bad?" You mused. The faces around you became serious before they cracked smiles. "Say we didn't know it wasn't allowed, or just meet back up at the tram station. Simple shit." Dimitri responded first, his words a little wobbly. You all rest on each other laughing and playing the fools. "Who is getting the next round?" Alex asked through a board grin, his eyelids heavy and partial closed. "I will!" You declare suddenly, anxious to get onto your feet. The boys slid over and you were on your feet and free. The surroundings are a little shaky., But you manage. "Get another round of the Fruit Xlices" Dimitri added showing you the first bottles you had drank from. You nodded and shot them a pair of cocky finger guns.

The trio just laughed as you headed towards the bar, even moving through the crowd the music echoed and trembled inside your lungs. Your entire body is burdened by the music. You felt strange, head bopping to the beat as you skipped your way through the dancing and flowing people. Without any hurdles you landed by the bar. Tapping your feet to the rhythmic beat as you waited for the flood of people around the marble top to clear out, a man peeled away with two fancy glasses in his hand and you took up the spot. Numerous other people leaned on the counter, trying to catch the attention of the barmaids. You tried doing the same if a little more restrained. The obnoxious behavior of your fell drinkers is a little annoying, you noticed the bartenders were clearly overworked in the rush.

A pretty woman with a shocking amount of piercings along her bottom lip and chin appeared. Focusing on you through the mess of people. "What can I get you sweetheart?" She inquires. You smile, finally getting service. You spoke politely and clearly. You couldn't help blushing a little. "Can I get four Fruit Xlices please?" She took the money and nodded, pulling four bottles from a wide and deep freezer behind her. You got a good look at her shapely behind as she leaned over, the very small shorts she wore clung tightly to her body, almost like a second skin. Two thin strings climb up and around her hips. You notice intricate tattoos dancing up along her back, spinning back around the woman catches you admiring her. She rolls her eyes before placing the drinks and the change before you. "I like your tattoos!" You declared loudly, earning a smile from the girl.
>>
File: Time2DanceFuckers.gif (1.54 MB, 360x202)
1.54 MB
1.54 MB GIF
>>5157459
Wasting no time you headed back to the table. Fighting through the mess of men and women you arrive back at the table. The drinks are terribly cold in your hands. When without warning a hand pinched one of your cheeks as you slipped by someone, turning a woman was ogling you, her carbon fiber hand sending you on your way with a slap on the butt as she danced vulgarly between two other women. Her split tongue flicks the air like a snake as you face your assaulter. You press on. The boys were busy playing a game when you arrived. You place the drinks down and slide back into your seat. Leaning over the tablet you watched them playing a simple style game. The competitors either mashing the touch button or pressing in time. Between complaining about not getting paid enough or admitting you weren't being paid at all the squad continues to drink playing the game against one another.

You didn't have the money to get shots so took sips from your fancy drinks instead with every loss. The night rolled on as the drinks sang when empty. Your body was ready, your mind swimming within the colours of the club. Both feet are busy bumping and jumping. You'd seen enough people dancing. You wanted to join in with wild abandon to all around. You stood, the table keeping you stable as you addressed the other pilots. "I'm gonna hit the Dance floor. Who's joining me?" Tony and Dimitri looked at you like a madman, the latter taking a pic. "Fuck it." Alex shouts and stands. You both march towards the writhing mass of bodies. It was time to show them what Ace Phobos pilots could really do. The purest form of battle. The alcohol had you in it's reins. It was time to get those feet loose.

>Time to bust a move, Pilot.
>What sick dance moves do you use to impress those watching?

!!BODY TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+2
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 1 + 2 = 13 (3d6 + 2)

>>5157462
Do the robot.
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 4 + 2 = 12 (3d6 + 2)

>>5157462
Brake our neck
>>
Rolled 3, 2, 1 + 2 = 8 (3d6 + 2)

>>5157462
>>
>>5157604
That's gonna be some half-assed robot.
>>
>>5158258
It's a first attempt. At least our neck is good
>>
>>5157604
>>5157606
>>5157621
13, 12, 8
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!PARTIAL SUCCESS!!

Valiantly you lead Alex into the brutal melee, hips clashing as waists were thrashing. The moving group quickly envelopes both of you, separating you from your fellow pilot almost instantly. You were on your own now, but the pounding music wasted no time. Along with the movements of others you began to dance, seemingly any move or display welcome as people significantly more drunk then you didn't seem to mind. However you step badly and jook when you should jive, fumbling when you should slide. A few elbows and hips knocked you about, earning smiles from the individuals with extremely dilated eyes. But the harsh environment just made you learn fast and soon you were pulling out moves that others appreciate.

Within your inebriated haze a song hits you just right, the beat beepy, the bass swinging. The noise a robot would make in your mind and without any warning your arms were working stiffly, carving through the air. With just robotic movements you worked through the crowd. Spotting Alexander as you stomp about. The boy was carrying his own, clearly enjoying himself. But something caught your eyes. Another set of robot limps slipped from the crowd, one arm was actually robotic. The same woman from earlier appeared, heading towards you. You didn't have any other choice, the drinks fueling your dance craze and before you knew it she was next to you. Hip swaying from side to side as she worked her legs in between your own. She didn't seem to be bothered about what she touched as her own thigh crept up yours.

Your hips sway to match her own and soon she is pulling you through the crowd. You do your best to match her moves. Laughing softly as you go, spurred on. Spinning around she began to drive her considerable ass into your waist. Her friends from earlier making themselves known, you spotted Alex across the dancefloor through the smashing shapes of clubbers. The man grinning like a fool as you lock eyes. At some point Dimitri had joined the mass, his own usually worn face one of ecstatic glee as he locked and popped after the women in his vicinity. The drinks were leading you as the girls swapped places and the moves shifted, your body nestled between the moshing augmented bodies. The surreal flashing lights were claiming your attention as you felt a hand slip around your waist.
>>
>>5158605
Pulling you from the feverish women, you notice how hot your body actually was when you were finally pried away from them. You only noticed how hard it was when a carbon fiber hand pinched it. You pulled your hips away as you were led off, finally free from the women despite their angry looks. Then a voice spoke in your ear. "Morty! I knew you were a little trouble maker the minute I saw you. Maybe I'm a Psionic!" The words were followed by a long kiss on the cheek. Your reactions slow as the drinks seem to have crept up on you. Your cheeks burned, first at the kiss then the recognition of a few of the more vulgar dance moves the women had helped you perform.

You had trouble recognizing the voice, brow furrowing a little as you turned, making out the face of Suranovich. You were face to face with the guard, she was not wearing her regulation armoured uniform. Instead the woman was dressed in a clear latex dress. It didn't hide a thing. Whatever little remained of her dignity was protected by tape that matched her vibrant hair. "You got a bad taste in women, those ones will eat you alive. And not in a good way." She laughed, the words barely getting through the music. The restless crowd didn't care to talk, so Suranovich pulled you off the dance floor. Her own moves guiding you out. You couldn't resist enjoying every moment, the world bobs and dips as your steps are uneven and shaky. You end up back at the bar, the boys on the floor too busy to notice your exit.

A group of similarly dressed individuals are there, they give you a few uninterested glances. You were just busy vibing to the song, shoulders rocking back and forth. A woman steps away, wearing a similar, yet different style latex dress. Without the tape, clearly she wasn't shy about her pale flesh and deep dark black hair. The woman has a cup in her hand, a deep red liquid inside. It looked tasty to you, the beat was popping off. You danced along as Suranovich introduced you, whispering into the woman's ear and the pair laughed. She gives you a little wave, her hand passing just in front of your eyes. You give her a wink as Suranovich puts her lips to your ear again. "This is Francheska, she's a Phobos pilot too." That peaked your attention as your face got a little more serious. You struggled to climb into your shell, but as you do your body becomes numb.
>>
>>5158608
The urge to party was only just restrained. You politely held your hand out to the woman. She smirked before laughing, covering her mouth as she did. You kept the hand out and she eventually took it, shaking it vigorously. Enough force to put you off balance almost enough to fall over from. "Corporal Mortimer!" You say out loud, the words vanishing to the song instead. The pair chat and you head to the bar, the same woman from earlier spotting you, you ordered three drinks to share. With a smile she handed them to you. You give the girls theirs and drunkenly invite them to your booth. it would be easier to talk further away from the music. They both follow, gesturing you to lead as the sip from their new drinks.

You find Tony, the poor lad had been left alone, but you brought him back an eyeful. The alcohol clearly kept him from being nonchalant, both eyes wide and unsure of what to focus on as you slid into the booth. It was a little easier to talk as you all got comfortable, Francheka was falling into Suranovich's eyes. The girl's arm around her as she talked about a few of the musicians she used to party with. The whole table laughed as she explained the crazy stuff their fans would do for a moment to meet them. One of the stories includes an ostrich and a vast amount of lubricant. As if like clock work the two others appeared, empty bottles in hand. Cheery faces become shocked at the new guests. You are too drunk to get much out, Suranovich Introduces herself as your cousin and Francheska as another pilot.

The older pilot began to tease your team about your ragtag band of outfits. In your drunken states the squad takes turns describing your escape and how it was all you could loot in the moment. The squad talked about inconsequential things, most of it you knew nothing about. Suranovich and Dimitri argued about bands and before you knew it the topic of food came up. You were all starving. In the blink of an eye you were all trotting your way out of the club, the two girls wearing long dusters as you all slipped back into your winter clothes. Standing around the outside of the club the topic of food was settled. But where to eat was up in the air. Francheka knew a kebab place a few layers up that would still be open. Alex and Tony demanded something deep fried. While Dimitri with his wobbly feet wanted to kick it at the same diner he had mentioned earlier. You just about propped eachother up. While he pulled up some options on his tablet you noticed the time. It was 3:56am. Four hours had flown by.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Visit the Kebab Shop?
>Visit a Fried Food stand?
>Visit the Diner?
>Look for another type of food?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5158609
>Visit the Kebab Shop?

I would say go to titty bar and hope they have complimentary breakfast but maybe some other time
>>
>>5158609
>Visit the Kebab Shop?

Hope the guy running it is as aggressive as my local kebab guy, he makes it clear your walking away with a kebab or not walking at all.
>>
>>5158609
>>Visit the Diner?
>>
>>5158609
>Visit the Kebab Shop?
Kebab is king when drinking with the lads.
>>
>>5159479
>>Visit the Kebab Shop?
Actually let me change, kebab time with the boys. This was a fun night

>>5158609
>Visit the Kebab Shop?
This is far more appropriate, for real.
>>
File: Cozy.jpg (140 KB, 900x540)
140 KB
140 KB JPG
>>5158657
>>5158710
>>5159517
>>5159524
"Kebab sounds good." You declare breaking the tie and swinging the vote. You all ascend back onto the main street, the busy packed roadways were now almost completely empty. A few people were out and about, the odd clubber heading home or early bird flying out to work. The snow was falling softer now, a good inch or two crunching with the impact under your boots as you followed the senior pilot. The sky was lighter, the dark clashing with light was waning as the sky was becoming a dull grey, the city light pollution competing with the coming sun. You knew it was still an hour or so out, but it was getting there. You ride the tram, arms around the shoulders of the gamma brothers. The car you got on had plenty of space, you all find a seats. Your lazy eyes were drawn to the world as it snapped passed, the outside buildings and adverts for things you had never owned.

You breath softly, content to sit and enjoy the ambience. The boys were discussing sports, Suranovich was putting the moves on the other pilot. You blink and the world sways, stumbling from the tram and towards your destination. Down thin walkways between colossal buildings you exit out into and large alcove. A small series of shops crowd the space. In the center is a garden, grass and flowers kept in neat order. Two benches rest on either end, a like grove within the metallic maze. Entering one of the small buildings. The first smell that hits you is roasted meats and spices, along with faint trail of incense. A burly tanned man leans on the counter as your small unit bungles their way inside. He seemed unamused by the group, dark wood furniture lines the cozy space inside.

A young woman sits in the back corner reading a book, she had a large steaming mug. Two older gentleman with the same shade of skin were playing a game with small wooden objects. They all look at your squad. The walls are painted pale, mostly plastered with flags you didn't recognize and old newspapers trapped within picture frames. "You bring me more Eskie dogs to feed Fransceza?" His accent was thick, you couldn't place it. The large man behind the counter asked, you could make out large logs of what you assumed was ground and seasoned meat. They were rotating under the hot orange glow, grease tricked down giving the spit a glistening appearance. You drop into a seat, as francheska spoke up. "Qadir. They are my friends and hungry ones. Hungry enough to pay for your slop." The dark skinned man seemed not to care, his eyes settling on you, hastily looking away. You instead focused on the TV mounted in the corner.
>>
File: Donner.jpg (572 KB, 2105x2105)
572 KB
572 KB JPG
>>5159827
The news is on, the sound is low and fighting with a cheap radio but an anchor woman is talking about the rising tensions in the east, gunfire had even been exchanged around the Zakha region and the growing spread of the Lunar Plague. Stock troubles and Food shortages. The usual toils of life. "What are you baby killers eating?" The man asked loud enough for everyone to hear, you look over. So does the rest of your team, Suranovich seemed uncomfortable. The drunk boys were clearly bothered as well. The senior pilot worked to cut the tension and quickly began to read out her order for the man. She orders for the table, keeping the man's attention away from you all.

The flutey music helps to sooth the situation as a meandering conversation is shared. You had never eaten a Kebab before, it was hard to hide how excited you were. You had years of institution cooking. The senior pilot finally heads back over, finding a seat on Suranovich's lap with a sigh. "Sorry about him, Qadir can be coarse. But he makes a mean donner." Your world jumped, for a second you fell into sleep. But was brought back by touch. The table was being served coffee by the girl. She had rich almond skin, Dimitri in his drunken state failed to come across as interesting. Declaring himself a Phobos pilot to her, she didn't seem that interested. You noticed the scars along her collar, thin purple traces that crisscrossed. Her left arm was missing, in place was an antique artificial one.

Yellow tinted porcelain stood out against her own dark skin. You focus on drinking, the pressure was slipping away. The world slowly and coldly creeps back in. The food came next, the smell was irresistible. A thick Pita bread was loaded with meat, vegetables and painted in a thick pale sauce. It was creamy and heavy with garlic, the hint of hot spices hiding somewhere within. You all ate cheerfully, humming and hawing in agreement with the others. Suranovich and Francheska forced you all to drink water, trying to revive the strung out youths. "So who are you friends Fransceza?" The aged man towered over the table, hands on his hips as he weighed you all up and down. The girl went on to explain how the boys were novice pilots.
>>
File: Q.jpg (72 KB, 736x940)
72 KB
72 KB JPG
>>5159828
The man went on to share his own time in the expeditionary force. His time in the jungle. Qadir had served in the 46th mechanized infantry and was stationed in the Kaliz Basin. He said he'd seen the Ghost of Prosperity go down fighting. You didn't recognize the conflict but the other pilots seemed to understand the reference. The TV screen flashed red as bright letters interjected across the screen. Painting the small space in crimson hues as the breaking news of a terrorist attack was taking place. Just moments ago explosions rocket the City of Kimsk. Live footage shows smoke and fire escaping from a large building. The entire restaurant paid attention as trouble brewed. "What are the chances we get dragged out into that. Either in the east or back south" The senior pilot mumbled.

Alexander spoke next. "Is it likely? We haven't actually been told much about the units we'll be sent to." Tony hummed his affirmative in support. You continued to eat some thick fries as the girl addressed you. "Well I can't say how you will all be stationed, but the a lot of regiments and division are undergoing refurbishment. We are also in the middle of raising our number of pilots up to combat readiness. So my best guess is you will be divided into designated units and be stationed along side them. That happened to me anyway." You spent the rest of the time watching the news until everyone finished. The trip back to base was over quickly, with the girls leading the way you were even allowed entry with any espionage.

Afterall you were accompanied by actual off duty staff. Splitting up you and the boys attempted to sneak back onto your floor the best you could. Thankfully Dimitri had sobered up enough to work the tumbler and after a very anxious elevator ride up to your floor. You collapse onto your bed at the righteous time of six o'clock. You are rudely woken up by pounding on your door, eyes twitching you spy an hour and half had passed. Scared by the sudden noise you slip from bed and hurry to the door. Opening it the light in the hallway stung your mind. A figure stood in the doorway, pushing you back into the room the moment you opened your door. It slams shut, ripped from your weak fingers, back in the gloom you can make out the person. It was Katerina, eyebrows arched and teeth bared. "So you'll open up n- What… what are you wearing?"
>>
>>5159829
She still seemed pissed off, but her interest was peaked. You were still wearing you clothes from the night before. A small sigh escapes your lips, you might have drank a little too much. The room twists and your exhausted feet cry for rest, drunken reflexes slipping free. You find purcahser on Kat, wrapping and arm around her as you lean most of your weight on her. "What the fuck are you doing?" She hissed, trying to push you off. You use the momentum to help you reach the bed. Falling onto it. The comforting mistress of sleep eager to take you back onto her embrace. The bed shifted as Kat sat on it beside you, her hand tracing your chest. She exsomined your leather jacket and sweater. "Morty? Why didn't you answer me last night?" Uh oh. You were in trouble now.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Tell a Lie?Write in
>Tell the Truth?
>Say something else?Write in
>>
>>5159830
>So, one of the deltas had an idea. A really really bad idea which has resulted in me getting 2 hours of sleep and a piercing headache.
>tell the truth briefly, leaving out the lock pick mechanism
We are the pinnacle of genius, 90 min of sleep? Morty, at least next time return in a reasonable timeframe
>>
>>5159830
>Take painkillers if we have any left
>Tell the Truth?
>Most bare bones truth we were out on the town
>Ask her why she wanted to talk with us
If she demand answers tell her question for question. Holy shit she wanted to talk about something important if she is so aggressive.
>>
>>5159906
+1
>>
This is a real comfy quest lads let's hope the shitposters take a while to notice it
>>
File: jet-stream-02.jpg (203 KB, 960x1440)
203 KB
203 KB JPG
>>5159904
>>5159906
>>5159939
You groan a little, wiggling away from the question and up to your bedside table, thankfully your bottle of painkillers rattles. The Duchess follows you up the bed, her hands reaching into the pockets of your new coat. "So… One of the Delta boys may have had an idea. A really really bad idea, that may have resulted in me getting about two hours of sleep and a piercing headache." Her hand touches your forehead, her fingers are soft and cold. Her long nails catch your skin as she pulls them away. "So what was this idea?" Your thoughts pounded, her words not helping. Kat was enjoying the situation. With a wince you sit up, popping a pill out of the bottle. Hefting the small thing, you estimated your odds of making it to the sink, you knew you wouldn't make it.

You were tempted to ask the other pilot. But you were very skeptical of her bedside manner. "Water?" You ask, your throat a desert. You needed it. The girl grins practically throwing herself off the bed, she gives the room a quick search over and heads into the bathroom. "You don't have a cup… Don't worry. I have my own idea." She takes a Mouthful from the running tap and crosses the room. Cheeks full and bulging as she eyes you expectantly. You squinted at the strange girl, she for one wasn't showing the standard of etiquette you had expected from a noble. You shook your head. "No way…" you mumble. You try to stand, but she pushes you back down. The water gargled as she laughed and almost choked. Impatiently she takes your head in her hand and starts to pry your lips apart. You resist for as long as you can.

But she managed to get it open and squirted a jet of water through her pursed lips and struck you in the back of your mouth like a hose. It was warmer than you had hoped but it was heaven as you swallowed it, then you choked. Pain twisting down your ragged and worn throat, but she didn't stop. Holding you still she produced another shorter jet and finally let you go. You swallow it still, enough to help the pill down. "Now tell me what happened!" She demanded, licking her lips viscously. You wanted more water, but decided to never mention any liquid around the young woman ever again. Laying back down, you give in.
>>
>>5160039
Sharing most of the details, withholding the actual device Dimitri used and a few of your dancing encounters. Katerina listens along without Interruption, her face speaking volumes. She started off in her clearly annoyed appearance as you explained your escape. But she broke into a grin the moment you described the combination of disguises your squad equipped. One of her hands returned to inspect your leather jacket and gaudy sweater. You couldn't help getting excited sharing all the things you saw, the people, the food and the places you had only ever imagined. You saw her face change again, this time one emotion you were more familiar with. Pity. The cruel and bitter so accustomed to gracing her face, it was easily noticeable when it was gone.

She looked at you like you were a child, so you stopped there. Hurrying past a few of the other things that you thought were interesting, you dive into your adventure in the club. The drinks, the clothes, the lack of clothes, dancing and meeting up with your friend and a senior pilot. Finishing up the story with your very late dinner and the lack of sleep. As you ended the story the girl had fallen back into her perpetual state of aggravation. The silence dragged on for a while so you broke it, the dino cheering you on from on top of the terminal. "So what did you want to talk about?" She let out a huff and shifted closer. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out a plastic card, her official pilot identification. "Well… I passed. So I'm officially a pilot now."

Reaching out you plucked the thing up, it was simple. The small portrait is a little younger just like you own. "Congratulations!" You cheer, well the best you could. Your voice cracked halfway through the word. "So you came to tell me last night?" You let slip free, the idea floating through your head. The girl stood up, brushing off her military uniform. You didn't need an answer to know she was avoiding the question. "Let's get some breakfast, food helps." She kept her back to you, lighting up a cigarette. The ember glowing hot in the gloom of your room. The pain was going, the pressure dropping. But it still lingered. You weren't asking her for anymore water, forcing yourself to stand until you made it to the bathroom.
>>
>>5160045
Downing another pill with a mouthful of water to help chase away the headache. "Hurry up." She calls, the idea of showering crossed your mind. But you weren't gonna risk it. Now with her in your vicinity. Simply slipping out your new clothes you were ready to go. The hallway was like walking through a white hell, the duchess basically dragged you from the room. Lagging behind the girl she led you by your hand. Smoke puffing from her frustrated lips like a steam engine. When you make it to the rec room it is mostly empty, a few lads from Delta watch you with a mix of awe and respect. The beta trio shared nothing but suspicious glances. Katerina pretty much puppeted you through the process. Everyone was probably relaxing or down below linking. You both eat in silence as the day ahead really begins to daunt your mind. You would have further exercises to come. But you still had time before then, you were surprised you could eat more. But your body didn't complain.

Katerina: +1

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Head down and watch the other Pilots linking?
>Try and get more sleep back in bed?
>Spend time with Katerina?Write in
>Look for another Pilot to talk to?Write in
>Say something else?Write in
>>
>>5160047
>Spend time with Katerina?Write in

Go and take a look at her Phobos, make some conversation as to how it all went
>>
>>5160080
+1

>she gave us a drink using her mouth
Weirdest boner...
>>
>>5160047
>Try and get more sleep back in bed?
We can take Kat with us
>>
>>5160113
+1 ask her to wake us up
Need that beauty sleep
>>
>>5160080
+1
Holy shit we're kats only friend
>>
>>5160080
+1
>What do you say?
Anything else happen while I was away.
>>
>>5160080
+1 looks good.
>>
If we losing more sleep we better get thicker if not THE THICK costume for training
>>
>>5160080
>>5160105
>>5160465
>>5160498
>>5160684
You hadn't spent much time with the girl in the last few days. And the little encounter with the Prince wasn't exactly the best example of a friendly exchange. You had her alone, you knew it was your best chance to hopefully make your relationship less, argumentative. You weren't the best socialite. But you were impressed by your own leaping strides, it was shocking how quickly things change. But that two year gap is hard to fill. The emptiness echoing within you the more you think about it, what you have lost. What you can't remember. It hurts to imagine. You pity yourself, but you won't give up. Not while you had the chance to change and make up for what you've missed. "How about you show me your Phobos? We haven't really been talking as much as I'd hope"

She stopped eating, her fork tapping her tray in agitation. The Duchess's words are far from minced. "Oh? What makes you think I want to talk to you!" Lips tightly clamped together creases interlocking up her nose and brow. You sit there, weathering the girl's mood. You didn't need your shell to reply. Calmly and softly you answer. "Well who else are you going to talk to?" She looks up at that, evidently not happy with your rebuttal. You try to save yourself. "W-What I mean is-" The girl grinds her teeth but returns her attention to the food. "Fine…" she growls, cutting you off. Well it went better than you had hoped, she was smoldering.

But her intensity was something you could handle. Your mind has to deal with worse than she could muster. But you are far from a machine. Empathy helps guide you. "Good, how did the linking go?" The girl kisses her teeth, sighing loudly. So you continue. "Well I struggled in the second layer. But the first and third were pretty easy, I guess it caught me off guard. I thought I would easily…" The girl didn't wish to share information at the table. But it didn't stop you from sharing most of your experience. The pain, the visions, the feelings and the freedom of controlling your Phobos. You kept your shadowy companion and the more personal moments to yourself.
>>
>>5160929
After finishing the food, you asked if she would wait for you to get ready. Despite her obvious dislike of the idea, you told her to give you ten minutes. Rushing off alone, you didn't trust her enough to bring her along. You shower and crawl into a fresh uniform, the headache mostly fading. You yawn as you step out into the familiar hanger bay, the size of the building daunting the more you picture it in your head. You second guess putting the question to Kat. The walk and ride down had been awkward. More so than usual, every chance at small talk was brushed off. You weren't sure what to say or do, but she kept pace and just having her presence there was miles more enjoyable than being alone. Just glancing over at the girl helped you feel better.

"Did anything happen while I was out?" You wanted to head over to the group linking, but Katerina swerved walking directly towards the docked Phobos. Giving chase she answers. "What makes you think I know? I'm not my cousin, I care little for the gossip and rumours of idiots…" she hissed. You hadn't guessed as much, she probably had no one else to talk to. The Prince was the only other person you had seen her with. You could understand why, she possesses a very spiky personality. She was less of a Cat and more of a Hedgehog. You agreed with your own theory and coined it as fact. Kat was a hedgehog. "You're a Hedgehog!" You announce with a smile, it dropped quickly as the realization of who you were talking to settled in.

You never had to tiptoe around anyone else. You weren't good at it. "What the fuck did you call me? I'm some kind of rodent!" The girl spits, halting to turn and face you. You look at her, but keep your pace. Hopefully creeping further and further out of the listening range of anyone nearby. Thinking fast you acted without too much thought. "Well, you're cute but covered in sharp spines so no one can get close to you." You let slip, involuntary laughing right after. Huh. Maybe you should have pondered the words over a little bit more. You were sure the quote could be misconstrued. The spiny girl blushed "What!" She increased her pace, striding after you. "What?" You reply. Increasing your own. You scream inside, the other pilot chasing you as her face turns bright red. Why does your brain work this way? Why can't you speak like a normal person? It's the alcohol.
>>
>>5160931
You're still drunk. "Forget it!" You reply, the girl at your heels was busy looking anywhere but at you. "Fine!" She remarks. The duo marches without further conversation, the tippy tap of your boots, enough noise. Cursing yourself until you are under the shadow of a Phobos. The large weapon belongs to Katerina. It was the only unit you hadn't walked to the docking spot. She had chosen a Sabre type. It was taller than Ruki's but a few feet shorter than your own. You let out a whistle, it was far thicker than your more lithe machine. "Your Phobos looks pretty cool… thought up any names for it?" The girl asked, her voice strange. Sheepish even. You hadn't really had a second to sit down and think about it at all. Everything was such a rush. "Nothing yet, still just trying to get a grip on everything." She steps closer. "Yeah me too, seeing it like this… it's strange." You two walk around chatting about the appearance of each Phobos. Time drags on quicker than you had expected. Other pilots beginning to leak over.

Katerina: +4

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Get ready for Phobos Exercises?
>Equip a suit? Dive/Ace/Heavy
>Talk to Kat?Write in
>Look for another Pilot to talk to?Write in
>Say something else?Write in
>>
File: 1644603689038.jpg (142 KB, 700x525)
142 KB
142 KB JPG
>>5160931
kek
>Get ready for Phobos Exercises?
>Equip a suit? Heavy
We need help in putting this on might as well ask Hedgehog to help.
>>
>>5160933
Check that we are good. If we have still some alchol in us it might be a problem to react.

>Equip a suit? Heavy
Might be better. Hopefully.

>Talk to Kat?Write in
While we get inside the suit
"So your cousin ... what kind guy he is ? I didn't talk with him that much. What can you tell me of him ?"


>Look for another Pilot to talk to?Write in
See if we can find Haruki, i don t want us inside a Phobos immediatly.
>>
>>5160953
Kek
>>
Autismus maximus here,can someone explain to me what's wrong with the hedgehog and how did we get +4 from her? was it the compliment?
>>
>>5160985
I think we didn't talked with her for sometime and we wheren t at base last night. And probably the compliment + time together.
>>
>>5160985
>>5160999
You also did apologize last time. Its just she wasn't having any of it. So that is also a part of the 4

>>5160953
What a masterpiece.
>>
>>5160933
>Get ready for Phobos Exercises?
Equip a heavy suit.
>>
File: Heavy.jpg (143 KB, 736x1472)
143 KB
143 KB JPG
>>5160953
>>5160981
>>5161036
Time was slipping away, even if your conversation wasn't the most in depth or heart to heart. Just chatting a little helped ease the habit into existence. "We better suit up. I'm still feeling a little off, could you help me put on a heavy suit?" You ask, the other pilots are still a way aways. You can make out the Gamma bros and exchange a quick wave. "Wow, Are you that much of an invalid?" Kat hissed, grabbing you by the hand and hauling you towards the lockers without further pleading. It was a little hard to keep up, but she didn't let you slow down. Inside she grabbed her own dive suit. "You better not peek!" She admonishes you with a wink then moves slipping into a changing room to pull it on. In your state you did the best you could. Changing into the loose under suit, you were in the act of slotting the density padding into place when she reappears.

She lets out a whistle, you have littered the parts all around. She picked up a piece and began slotting it into place and tightening it until it held. "So your cousin… What kind of guy is he exactly? I didn't talk to him that much. Is there anything I should know?" The words produced the typical response from the young woman. But with a huff and knocking a plate into place a little too hard she spoke. "Well he almost died a few times when he was little. Drowning, falling down some stairs and that sort of stuff. He has been strange ever since… He doesn't view things the way we do, he is always looking for more. I can't explain it well… but he's still a creature of the crown. I wouldn't underestimate or trust him if I was you." She spoke low, tightening you up further as the suit began to take shape.

You nod sullenly, thinking over the girl's broody words. Then Alexander and Anthony arrive. Katerina fell quite and cold, distant to the others. You mention the club and the boys begin to joke about all the pictures. That had piqued the girl's interest but she said nothing until they went to change. "You never said anything about pictures! I want to see them." You shrug, working quickly to get the last few pieces in place. You felt a good bit heavier than normal, each step feeling hefty. "Looking good!" She teases, tapping your helmet visor with her knuckles. Heading back out the girl kept trying to trip you, kicking you back leg almost every time you took a step. "I didn't expect you to have a girlfriend so soon. You seemed like the quiet, love 'em and leave 'em type to me. A real heartthrob." The voice was familiar, it wasn't wormy.
>Power is out so posting from data.
>>
>>5161250
Turning you were face to face with two other Senior Pilots, their dive suits the same design that Waemi wore. You recognized the one who had spoken, it was Francheska along with a huge man you didn't know. She was about half his size, the man was tall and muscular. His suit taught against his skin, it looked like it was ready to split. You greet the duo, Kat stands around impatiently. "Hello again. It's nice to meet you. I'm Corporal Mortimer." Francheska smiled and elbowed the larger man, his strong features framed by golden mane and beard. "Yeah good to meet you kid. You really need all that kit?" He didn't take your hand, just limply gestures towards your heavy suit. "Ivan, you weren't watching him drink last night. Underneath all that is one genuine party animal, he could give you a run for your money."

The mass of meat shrugged, his wide shoulders almost tearing the elastic material. The duo wastes no time and rush all the novice pilots to link up. Grisha, Castilla, Alex, Tony, Kat and you are all early. Like falling into a mire the Core takes you without hesitation, loading into your unit without much prompting from your mind. Your suit hissed and pressurized and the world returned as you opened your eyes. She is pressed up against your visor, watching you, her eyes obscured by the ichor that was her hair. You pull away and she swims around you. Her body is like an eel searching for any shadow to hide in. "We'll take it slow. Start with some baby steps until everyone shows up. Neural coordination, nice and slow now." Francheska spoke calmly across the LO Channel, both she and Ivan were piloting Prince class sabre units.

You were easily going about the task, even if the suit hampered the speed at which you Phobos reacted. It turned so slowly, you finished third after Kat and Castilla. You were in the middle of taking your second rotation when your core reacted to something. Without warning you were pulled down into the third layer, right through the second. Your eyes rolled into the back of your head an both ears popped, but your mind was protected. The suit buys you time to prepare. A thousand whispers crash in around you as She runs her hands through the suit and along your body. The whispers weren't the product of your mind, through the interference you made out the voices of the other pilots. Groans of pain and panic. Your eyes push through the haze and focus on the other's around you. The world materializing. The other Phobos were on their knees or fallen facedown. Francheska and Ivan were standing. You felt something, it reverbated through your core. A scream, a howl, a bloodied cry that shook the umbral orb you share.

!!MIND TEST!!
>Roll 3d6+5(+4 from suit. +1 from mind)
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

>Target: 15
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 5 + 5 = 19 (3d6 + 5)

>>5161252
>>
>>5161252
>>
>>5161252
>>
>>5161325
dice+3d6+5
In options tab
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 5 + 5 = 16 (3d6 + 5)

>>5161252
Well, let’s have the suit compensate for the fact that we are sleep deprived AF

Practice for extended deployment, right?
>>
Rolled 5, 4, 3 + 5 = 17 (3d6 + 5)

>>5161252
>>
>>5161263
>>5161349
>>5161351
19, 16, 17
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Mind Gained

You taste the hate and the fear. The madness is intoxicating. The sound oscillates echoing throughout the bay, the suit and your mind fighting against your own machine's upheaval. Enough for you to make out the chatter on the LO comms. Kat was whimpering, her voice calling out for anyone. Grisha was screaming his head off, the connection jumping in and out. The two senior pilots pivot and you do the same, the thick suit slowing your turn, an awful site inches into view. An emperor class Phobos was thrashing within it's bindings. You observers snap in on reflex and you can see cracks grow as it strains. Ivan's voice comes across the low channel, distortion muddying it. But you managed to make some of it out, not enough to make sense "Comma- -oose an- -train. Copy? -ear." For a moment it snowed within the bay, a shiver ran down your spine as the other novice pilots struggled. You take a step, slowly but stably as you stand over the fallen Phobos of Kat. "Mortimer? Are you still in one piece?" Francheska asked, her voice warbling. But you understand her. Your eyes caught motion as the two pilots drew short curved devices. They were firearms, coils of cable connected from the handle to the body.

Manual Ejectors, they shock whoever was piloting until the core rejects them. It had almost happened to you. "Just about" You reply, the vibrations dragging on before escaping the core. The cries of the novices echoing in the back of your mind. You could feel fighting within their cores. She in her unabashed nakedness stares out towards the commotion. "I need you to eject each pilot before they suffer any real damage. We'll deal with the Emperor class." Your Phobos creaked as something opened along your right leg, looking down, you spotted a revealed compartment. Sitting inside is one of the same devices they held. You smoothly take it up, your metalic fingers taking seconds to tighten around it. Pulling it free, a coil of cable snaps free, you feel the thing begin to charge. A bar flicking in and out reading off the progress. The duo wastes no time heading towards the wild giant, one arm had snapped free from the restraints. You made out the lack of personnel around it, you glimpsed the last few staffers rushing out of the bay.
The other units failed to grasp control, the whispers repeating around you. The ejecting device releases a tone signaling it was ready for use.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Who do you Eject first?
>Grisha, Castilla, Alex, Tony, Kat?
>Say something else?Write in

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Target: 12
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 3 + 3 = 10 (3d6 + 3)

>>5161869
>Kat get the emperor one first
>Grisha he sounded like he was in a lot of trouble but I'm not sure if radio silence is indicator of something better or worse
>Alex our
>Tony boys
>Castilla sorry...
>>
>>5161872
That roll tho.
>>5161869
QM did we opened compartment with device or it was done remotely by someone else?
>>
>>5161874
Remotely unlocked.

But it is more like showing you it existed made you aware that it had always been there.
>>
Rolled 5, 2, 2 + 3 = 12 (3d6 + 3)

Kat and our bros first,the test can suck it
>>
>>5161869
>69
Nice
>>5161872
>What do you say? Write in.
So to add on it.
>Ask how long device needs to charge between forcing ejection?
>If it's longer then time we would need to approach next Phobos ask to start charging them at all disabled Phobos so when we approach them we can have ready device.
>If impossible due to state of pilots ask one of the active pilots to throw one of theirs devices not like they will need two

Having extra device or even multiple ready should speed up process
>>
Rolled 3, 6, 1 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5161869
Get Kat out first.
>>
>>5161872
>>5161888
>>5161892
Target: 12
10, 12, 13
!!TEST PASSED!!

The thing roars, it's voice warped and brutal. You can feel it rumbling in your spine, rattling your brain. The high pitched howling belongs to a girl, the only other Emperor class pilot that remained. Anastasia is diving down. Even from so far away you could feel the ripples she made. "How long does this thing need to charge?" You ask across the LO, voice heavy with panic. Against the resisting force you turn the small weapon back and forth, stumbling over to Katerina. You climb into your shell, mind fortifying itself further. The suit made every action a battle, gritting your teeth you pushed hard. Within the third layer She circles you, like some black eyed shark watching every action intently. Breathing raggedly as the other pilot replies you crouch beside Kat's jittering Phobos. "Give or take forty seconds."

Your Ejector still had about twenty seconds left. Thinking fast you rattled off more questions, the sound of concrete shards skittering across metal made your hairs stand on end. Even if it was the sound of a whisper your Phobos picked it up. "Can you prepare each other's Phobos so their Ejectors are ready for me. Or could you give me one of yours?" Ivan scoffed across the comms as the duo strode towards the raving machine. "Not possible, they have to release it themselves and they are in no state for that." Another bellow escapes as your device climbs closer to being ready. "We'll deal with the big one, just get them out!" A tone plays through your core, signalling the ready state. Using your empty hand you try and hold Kat's Phobos still.

The moment you make contact with her you feel hands snake around and tightly gripping your neck. More find their way around your wrists as other fingers sink in around your ankles. Trying to hold you down. The girl whispers pleas of help, the words driving you forward. Choking you, your lungs calling out for air, you press the end of the device into where her core should be. You pull the trigger. The murky orb around you boils as you hear the crackle of electricity. Pain lances up your other arm and the oppressive hands fall away as you feel the charge disperse. The metal began to part, the interlocking plates bowing to reveal the core. She had nowhere to go, the orb dangling around ten feet from ground held up only by the nerve clusters. You saw her head appear, pulling herself free. You reach out and she falls into your palm, her dive suit torn and ripped.
>>
>>5161986
Before you think your observers zoom in, red hand prints marking her exposed pale flesh, her neck, wrists, chest. You look away and lower her to the ground. Sitting up in a daze, the girl manages to climb down. You turn your attention to the senior pilots. They were around Anastasia now, another Prince class joining them. The girl's Sabre type was only partially restrained, they were giving her a chance to pull herself out. Just like command had with you. You could hear the faint signal of their conversation, but couldn't understand the words. Kat was making her way towards ground staff that rushed to meet her, a few others were lingering around. Eyes pinned on the main show. You continue on moving onto Grisha next, the forty second feeling like a lifetime as you stand over the still Phobos. Reaching down as the device pings you drive the ejector in and repeat the same process, you taste blood.

Coppery and rich, you notice it coming from your nostrils. Your quick breaths sent splatters along the bottom of your visor. Your top lip matted and slick. The boy flopped out, unconscious and unmoving. You carry him to the nearest staff and they shift him onto a gurney. He was terribly pale. Moving in you crouch over Alex's prince, his arms were rotating back and forth through neural coordination. You pull him out with the shocker, and pass him off to staff. He limped but managed. As you make it to tony, you focus entirely on the slowly filling bar. You are waiting for that ping, for that brief rush of relief. The ping was eclipsed. Instead the clash of heavy lumps of concrete smashing against the metal floor rang out, whispered curses and another horrifying screech joined in. The Core fluxes. Your world snapping away as you are hooked by something unseen and torn down into the dark, you choke as the air is squeezed from you.

Throwing up a mouthful of blood against your visor, painting it with speckles of congealed blood. It was too much, you felt your body buckle and fold. Fighting against your flexing muscles, you pull the helmet off. Escaping your confined hell and allowing everything to rush into you. You fall. Your knees finding a new home among the points or jagged metal, digging in as your palms follow. They cut deep, more crimson ichor leaking from you. Opening your eyes you witness the hot life essence bubble up around your fingers against the countless rusted shards of shrapnel. Evaporating into a wispy trail, climbing high into the sky to join the hazy red mist that surrounded you. Your shell couldn't help you down here.
>>
File: f0230591-800px-wm.jpg (197 KB, 800x533)
197 KB
197 KB JPG
>>5161988
Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 4 - Diving below the Umbral shell
https://voca.ro/16ztYBePQZTm

You were within the Fifth Layer. The Crimson Mists of the Thalamus. Naked as the day you were born, nothing came down here with you. Your thoughts were silent.

Mortimer stood alone, the blood flowing from him carried away with it the pain and the fear. Soon only the cold remained, his eyes alert perusing. They searched through the impenetrable layer. He was alone. But he wasn't. He was alone. But two fracture Phobos linger in the mists. Their tall shattered bodies hovering partially hidden and held by some force. Some entire sections were missing and yet still the severed limbs hung perfectly in place. He turned up, looking on from the machines. He knew they weren't worth his attention. However the two smaller humanoid figures that float over the wreckages. They were something else entirely.

We all knew that, you didn't have to tell us. We have been paying attention. Woof Woof. The whispers return and you watch the others. She is one of them. Beside her is a man, He was just as naked. Just as wrong. The outlines of inhuman teeth and eyes gave that away. You tremble under their combined gaze. Feeling their attention on you. The whispers hush and a voice echoes within your mind, Slithering down your dispersed blood and along the path into your very soul. To the core of your being.

"Fight."

A metal fist smashes through the cloudy maroon wall, you feel a few of your observes cut off as they shattered against the pain. The Ace type Phobos followed it up by wildly thrusting a white edged blade, it struck you in the hip. You scream as it sinks in touching bone and twists. With the momentum of it's metal charge, it knocks you down, chassis knocking together. Your cores sync, connecting for a fraction of a moment. You see her face, eyes nothing but white blood shot orbs. The small pilot emerges from the mist encompassing your core, lashing from side to side restrained within a nest of coiled strands. You spot the glint of catlike eyes over her shoulder. Then it's gone as she pulls back and drives another fist into your war machine. It rocks you, bringing your attention back. You still had the Manual Ejector in your hand, reflectively you raised the other in defence. Interrupting another wild stab.
>>
>>5161989
>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Try to use the Ejector on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
>Try and restrain the Phobos until someone else arrives? Opposed Body Test.
>Try to release another concealed compartment you aren't aware of? Smarts Test.
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5161991
>Try to use the Ejector on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test
>>
>>5161991
>Try to use the Ejector on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
Oh fuck.
>>
Did we get hit by a massed Psionic attack or something? What the fuck?

>Try to use the Ejector on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
We dont have time to wait for someone else to show up, apparently the suits are doing their damnest best to fucking murder us all.
>>
>>5161991
>Try to use the Ejector on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
>>
>>5162030
>Did we get hit by a massed Psionic attack or something?

We did. Leader of midget squadron is going haywire. More or less she is getting the same treatment that we did. Just without dog whistle from our mistress so if they won't eject her she will probably get fucked.
>>
>>5162058
>CLONING IS A GOOD IDEA GAIZ!
Fucking LMAO
>>
Rolled 4, 4, 4 + 3 = 15 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162014
>>5162015
>>5162030
>>5162038
First roll is the target.

Straining, you hold the warbling blade of the HI-Freq knife back, the girl putting the weight of her Phobos onto it. You feel a soft popping in your head as you strain to hold up the larger unit with one hand. The white tip inches closer and closer as liquid pools in your tear ducts and begins to trickle along your cheeks. You're burning, but from behind cool hands join your own tracing down your arms as She takes the weight. Your Phobos pushing the other unit off enough to jam the tip of the ejector into it's heavily plated ribs. You pull the trigger. A jolt flowing into the Sabre type.

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests.

Target: Is above.
>>
Rolled 1, 6, 3 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162072
Damn this is going to be rough I feel.
>>
Rolled 2, 4, 5 + 3 = 14 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162072
Cas you bitch!
>>
Rolled 1, 4, 6 + 3 = 14 (3d6 + 3)

Who's attacking us ?the clone or the scar chick?
>>
Rolled 5, 8 = 13 (2d20)

>>5162081
Anastasia. The midget. She is piloting an Emperor Class Sabre type unit. Similar to pic.

>Writing now.
>>
>>5162081
Scar chick and our best bro. I think Cas has the knife. Midget does some mind bullshit which is impressive in a way knocking pilots with that but it seem to strongly affect only untrained ones. Thank God we put on heavy suit.
>>
>>5162087
I'm glad we failed then,good fucking riddance.I knew she was trouble
>>
>>5162093
You do realize that we are going to take BAD blows from this right? I mean i hate the stupid botch too but we ARE trying not to fucking die here.
>>
>>5162092
Oh fuck I read it wrong. Crazy midget attacked us. Wow... Those three pilots protecting her will need some talking too.

Welp shame the guy didn't give us second ejection tool we would be done with our best bro and Cas by now.
>>
>>5162094
It's sanity damage... I hope we should be fine. Three prince class pilots should be in her ass next turn.
>>
>>5162102
>SAN damage
>While we have sunk all the goodamn way to the bottom of the Phobos
OH FUCKING BOY! The cackling demons in this suit are going to goddamn have FUN with this.
>>
The fact that people who hear us call yuga mistress think its sexual never fails to crack me up
>>
>>5162112
I mean we didnt really tell anyone why she makes us call her that, hell i doubt WE even know why she did it. So its completely fair
>>
>>5162112
Our memory is so fucked it could be sexual for all we know.
>>
>>5162087
Target: 15
13, 14, 14
!!TEST FAILURE!!
!!-13 Exterior A.Plating!!

You witness blue electricity arc across the exterior armor and you know it didn't reach the necessary depth. The shock pushes the Phobos further away but only for a second. Anastasia and her Phobos pushing back down onto you, a punching fist rocking your core from side to side. She buckles, her hands slipping away as the knife stabs down luckily thrown off target by your own attack it simply slices along the exterior plating of your unit, You feel a thick lay of skin being flayed from your shoulder. involuntarily you scream and more of the world returns with it, Francheska was calling your name.

Then her unit appears, you outer observers glimpsing her drive an Ejector into the side of Anastasia. You feel it discharge, the close proximity sharing the current evenly. You feel her core jolt, dropping out of a layer. But far from stable. Command was trying to contact you, demanding your status. You were busy holding back another downwards stab. Her readings burn in the corner of your vision, she was dropping below twenty percent. You feel the hum of her interior ejector system within the Emperor Phobos kick in and fire off a burst. You own Ejector was almost ready again. It did nothing and you felt cold. She sunk deeper again. Despite your efforts she was back in the Fifth. You feel sick. She was dragging you down with her. That stupid bitch was going to get you killed. You rage, fighting to tread. You had to act quickly.
>>
>>5162125
Unit Name: ???
Unit Class/Type: Emperor/Rapier
Unit Pilot: Mortimer
Exterior A.Plating: 300/287
Interior N.Clusters: 200/200

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Try to use the Ejector again on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
>Try and Hold the Phobos back until more pilots arrives? Opposed Body Test.
>Try and follow her down. She couldn't out last you in the deep. Opposed Mind test.
>Try to release another concealed compartment you aren't aware of? Smarts Test.
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5162121
Kek we had a theory like that 2 weeks earlier and qm made confused noises
>>
>>5162112
Some form of pet play is obviously involve. How sexual it got nobody can say.
>>
So how do we survive this but ensure the bitch dies
>>
>Try to use the Ejector again on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
>>
>>5162128
>Try to use the Ejector again on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.

I mean our best skill so far. Shame we don't have a Phobos size chair at hand she would be smoked otherwise.

QM Our armor is smoked and won't help in Mind test right?
>>
>>5162136
Honestly we dont have to. Something like this happen might just get her ejected to elsewhere, so we wont have to deal with her.
>>
>>5162128
>Try to use the Ejector again on the pilot? Opposed Skill Test.
Call for back up.
>>
>>5162136
She is potential another Emperor class pilot on battlefield. This way of thinking saddens motherland comrade. She is a bitch but at the end of a day another comrade we must do our best to ensure her healthy status.
>>
>>5162139
>>5162140
The Armor still helps just not as much.
>>5162144
First roll is the target.

You twist as the Phobos focuses down on you, fighting to hold back the deranged pilot. Both arms holding back the blade, the ping resounded through your Umbral Core. Hope growing as you felt the tainted core seeping into your own. Screaming you flex, holding the blade with one hand as the other slammed the tool further up the body than last time. Francheska's smaller unit drove a set of elbows into the girl as her's recharged. Trying to pry her off you. You sense movement in a partial shattered observer as the two other Senior pilots glitch into stuttering existence. Pulling the trigger the weapon unleashed its charge.

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests
>Target: Is above.
>>
Rolled 5, 4, 1 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162208
>>
Rolled 3, 5, 1 + 3 = 12 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162208
>>
Rolled 1, 6, 3 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162208
We're so fucked ihope she won't make it
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 2 + 3 = 14 (3d6 + 3)

>>5162208
>Forgot the roll kek
Target
>>
Rolled 10, 4 = 14 (2d20)

>>5162219
Writing.
>>
>>5162219
REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
>>
>>5162223
We were really lucky with with damage rolls so far.
>>
>>5162223
Oh fuck.

>>5162136
Unfortunately we can't really kill other pilots. The best we can hope is that she stops, otherwise idk. I am considering to trying social again with her, maybe finding a way for break the ice.


>>5162030
The phobos are very murderous, for being some alien machines. At the moment we aren't even in the 2 layer as we usually do. We are in the 5th, so we need to get all the way up at the end of this emergency.
>>
File: mn4ct2.jpg (49 KB, 602x540)
49 KB
49 KB JPG
>>5162223
Target: 15
13, 12, 13
!!TEST FAILURE!!
!!-14 Exterior A.Plating!!

Your hand gives way, the ejector doing nothing to help. The blade strikes true, skewering you through the shoulder. The plating thankfully halts the blade from going further. The pain was excruciating and you buck trying to escape it, thrashing around within your core as the interior heaves. Ivan is closer now, he drives his own device into the Phobos and unleashes another round. You feel the core on top of you leak further, you tried. But she was dragging you down. The Ejectors weren't going to stop it.

Blood flooded the core, blinding you as the world flipped and you fell. Again. Back Into the abyss as the claws of oblivion reach up to grasp you. You sit up, the crude shrapnel bed pulling free from your flesh. Back within the Fifth Layer, you weren't alone. Anastasia sat cross legged on her own pile of rusted scrap opposite you, blood oozing from her nose and ears. Her small body was bleeding from just about every orifice. You can make out burns along her arms and legs. Electrical burns. Her child sized fingers and toes blackened beyond any use. "I'm sor-" Girl starts to talk, before a scream echoes through the misty land of the fifth layer.

The rest of her words twisting as she seizes, tearing her burned body further apart upon the unforgiving metal. "H̴s̶g̵e̶k̵ ̵s̵k̸r̵w̶u̶ ̵e̶h̵a̶n̶.̸ ̵B̶e̷i̵e̷m̷.̶" you didn't move. You watched as she bled more, her sickening display made you feel weak. Searing your mind with the sight. You stand, tempted to try and help the girl. But you weren't sure what to do. You step forward. A freezing hand holding you back. She was at your side. Then you spot it. A thin chitinous arm slinks from between the metal ground, you notice more of the limbs. They were still, swaying slightly. Hiding and waiting. It was a deep copper, painted in the girls ichor.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Do nothing.
>Try and help the Anastasia?Opposed Mind Test.
>Abandon Anastasia and try to escape the Layer?Mind Test. Target is 14.
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5162318
Do nothing or abandon her,her apologies are worthless
>>
>>5162318
>Try and help the Anastasia?Opposed Mind Test.
No clone left behind! semper fi!
>>
>>5162318
>Try and help the Anastasia?Opposed Mind Test
>What do you say?
Don't worry it's just a flesh wound.
>>
>>5162318
The question here is,do we go so deep that we potentially die trying to save this girl? Unfortunately she IS ruined at this point. IF she survives (huge fucking IF right there), she is gone from this program, and DESU gone from the military. If we try to save her anyways, we could VERY, VERY easily die. We are at the bottom of these machines. To go any deeper is CERTAIN death, consumed utterly. DESU, i'd HOPE that we could, comrades and military trust and all that. But i dont not trust us, being hungover and exhausted beyond anything after last night, (watch us get caught due to this bullshit and blamed for her death/the deaths aof everyone that dies from this bullshit).
>Do nothing.
>Abandon Anastasia and try to escape the Layer?Mind Test. Target is 14.
One of these two. She is doomed.
>>
>>5162329
How unpatriotic and degenerate of you comrade.
>>
>>5162318
>>5162331
>Do something else?Write in
ADD
>Ask HER to guide us?
>>
>>5162338
You fucking trust HER? Are you literally insane? SHE is only help us to not get destroyed by the other out of control pilot, We give in? SHE mind-rapes us worse than the Midget bitch is getting RN. We are in the fucking FIFTH LAYER after all.
>>
>>5162318
>Try and help the Anastasia?Opposed Mind Test.
>>
>>5162340
>>5162335
Dude cringe
>>
Anons don't go full retard,she literally despises us.watch her abandon us and flee damnit
>>
>>5162343
>CRING, SEEVE, DILUT
Literally fuck off.
>>
>>5162346
Your hate boner clouds your judgment.
>>5162347
No u sir.
>>
>>5162335
>being hungover and exhausted beyond anything after last night

Literally has no impact whatsoever. Painkiller and water mixed with spit of gamer girl for the win.
>>
>>5162354
>Gamergurl spit
Just fucking stop.
>>
>>5162362
It just work.
>>
Rolled 6, 2, 6, 2 = 16 (4d6)

>>5162331
>>5162333
>>5162341
>>5162338

You couldn't abandon her. She may have been an asshole, she may just even be some clone failure. But it pained you to watch her die. The girl was dying. You could feel her dying, you wanted to collapse, to turn and run. To save yourself. But something stopped you. You take another step. The pain growing stronger, your fingers and toes clench. Fried into balled lumps of ash and bone in an instant. She tugs on your arm. Trying to pull you away, but she matches your step and stands to your side. Grip tightening as she twists her hand. It hurts, but the feeling was eclipsed by the small pilots suffering. "Don't worry it's just a flesh wound" The Monsterous woman didn't react. "Are you going to help me?" She didn't reply, simply stared through the obscuring storm of hair. You take another, body blistering as an unseen current cuts through you. She still follows, the creature skitters and begins sinking further underneath the girl. It's long legs tipped with small pincers that tightly clasping around the pilot. You advance again and reach out your hand, you meet a thin membrane that seperates you. The creature tries to pull her down through the mass of cruel metal. You grab her, pulling the girl back.

!!MIND TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+1
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests
>Target: Is above.
>>
Rolled 4, 3, 5 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5162382
>dice+3d6+1
>>5162208
>The Armor still helps just not as much.

No bonus from armor at all?
>>
Rolled 2, 2, 5 + 1 = 10 (3d6 + 1)

>>5162382
>>
Rolled 4, 3, 5 + 1 = 13 (3d6 + 1)

>>5162382
against 16.
Come on.
>>
>>5162388
Thunderous applause. You just killed her. And probably us as well.
>>
>>5162396
[OwO] Oh no... anyway.
>>
Rolled 5, 2, 2, 4, 3, 4 = 20 (6d6)

>>5162388
>>5162389
>>5162394
>Good point anon.
>Take +3 for Armor. Will give you guy two passes.
Gonna write.
>Don't worry about this roll.
>>
File: ARMOR-chan.jpg (71 KB, 474x609)
71 KB
71 KB JPG
>>5162400
ARMOR FOR THE WIN!
>>
>>5162416
Kek

So I imagine the creature with long legs is the Phobos, or at least the form of one in a human mind. Anastasia will need sometime in the bed of the clinic, the one in charge of her project will not throw her away. Each pilot is too valuable to not be used to the fullest, and in this test multiple pilots have failed.

And it could be that the ghosts we see of she and he, are connected to Mortimer. Could be repressed/erased memories or what not. Our own Phobos can clearly see what we are.
>>
>>5162400
Target: 16
16, 12, 16, (20)
!!TEST PASSED!!

Anastasia's skin is brittle, pulling away in grisly tendons as you tug against the monster. The top layer peeling off and oozing through your fingers. You almost fall, her blood mixing with your own. But your mind stays focused, you just had to help her. The creature doesn't want to share it's prize and a bladed limb snaps out at you. Before you could even react, you were sure it would have split you in half. But a thin hand Intercepts it, holding it in place as you wrestle the pilot free from the pincers. You ignored the further damage it did, just focusing on freeing the girl. She drives her free hand down into the collection of metal that hid the thing.

You're Pilot Francheska Kulikova, your existence is silent. It always was, other pilots had shared stories of their own strange Umbral cores. Some only ever smelled the same thing, heard whispers or saw dead relatives. Yours never seemed so harrowing, but you were smart. You wanted to keep your mind intact. You barely ever dive below the second layer. You didn't want to see them again. You push those thoughts aside, finding new ones to occupy your mind. God you needed a break, you wanted a head between your thighs and a martini in each hand. "Fran? You still in there?" Your eyes crack open, the brilliant edge of a frequency blade hangs just above you. Both your hands held it in place, the vibrations shaking your wrists uncomfortably, surely it was humming out there.

But the sounds didn't reach you. "Hurry the fuck up!" You barked across the comm channel, you felt the Emperor class arm go limp and twist the blade free. Wasting no time in driving it into the sternum of the unit. With the flip of a switch the blade halts its motion and exhausts the built up heat into the surrounding metal. Welding itself in place, the Phobos flinched and you felt the other limbs go dead one by one, your observing cameras that weren't smashed spotted Ivan and Kostya. Both hefted spike drivers. "Command, Unit is successfully restrained. No contact with the pilot. Over." Ivan spoke across the channel. Flexing you and the duo shift the disabled Phobos off of your own unit. You felt the ground shake as it met the metal, a sigh of relief escapes your lips as you finally are unpinned. Your Phobos mimics your actions and hops off the Rapier type. "Mortimer, can you hear me? Over" The pilot was down in the fifth layer, you had to throw yourself into the line of harm or your little party animal would have been shish kebab. Nothing echoed back from the sleeping giant. You knew one thing, you didn't want to be down there.
>>
File: Someone's Eyes.jpg (3.5 MB, 4096x1422)
3.5 MB
3.5 MB JPG
>>5162726
"By the Empress, They are gonna be hosing the pilots out of these monsters…. What does that leave? Like three emp pilots left?" Kostya spoke, his voice grim as he stooped over the disabled unit. Trauma teams were already on stage, rushing to the novices Mortimer couldn't free in time. You only hoped they survived the fifth layer for so long.

You drive a heel into one of the spindly limbs, ignoring the pain and snapping it free from the girl. She was way ahead of you, wading into the metal wielding the blade like forearm as a weapon. Seeing the thing off it vanished into the messy ground. You clutch the girl to your chest, her small body lighter than you had expected. You easily carry her. "I'm sorry mama." Anastasia speaks weakly as her mangled hand touches your cheek. You feel like you're dying. "Don't worry I've got you. It's gone." You mumble breathing weakly, eyes scanning the blood red mist for any other movement. She rests her head against your chest, you feel the beat of her heart. It lulls and falters. Her jaw works, trying to speak but no noise slips out. Her heart struggles again, your own matching it. Your legs buckle, body collapsing but you hold her tight.She catches you in her arms. For just a second you see her face unveiled from the snatching shadows, for the fracture of a moment you see.

You didn't know the woman. She wasn't Eskarrian, her face was not like your own. She was foreign, like Haru and Ruki. Even though you knew She wasn't familiar. Something stood out. Her eyes. You recognize them, you stare into them for every day of your life. At every moment you glimpse a mirror or a stray reflection. They were your own eyes. She had your eyes. Or you had hers. Then you died, your heart stopped. Anastasia along with you. Dying was quicker than you had thought. The snap and hum was followed by blinding light as your dormitory suddenly burst into life. Chasing away any fragment of sleep you clung onto for dear life. Taking a deep breath you sat up in a bed that wasn't your own. The dormitory wasn't a dormitory. You were on a hospital ward. A tube down your throat, gagging you wrench it free. Taking in deep breaths while trying to get off the gurney you found your legs strapped down.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Rest in bed?
>Unstrap yourself and explore?
>Call out for assistance?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5162729
>Unstrap yourself and explore?
>>
>>5162729
>Rest in bed?
>>
>>5162729
>>What do you do, Pilot?
Do light movement.
Can we open and close our eyes ?
Move an hand ?
An arm ?
And so on. If everything is fine move, we need to see that our friends are okay and healthy.
We should probably all go with heavy suits from now on. We are all still fresh pilots. With not a lot of tests done and time passed.

>Unstrap yourself and explore?
>>
>>5162729
Are we going to get a positive Social Standing with Anastasia now ? Saving her it s kind of a big deal
>>
>>5162914
>Inb4 she wanted to die relationship goes to -20

Imagine
>>
>>5162914
She more than likely out of the program. Even if she makes a full recovery, she lost control so fucking bad she almost killed MULTIPLE other novices. I doubt command wants someone like that as a pilot.
>>
>>5162729
Full motor function check sounds warranted, although we're strapped down, which seems to indicate we're expected to stay here.
Naturally, that means we should wander off and see who else is in the hospital. At least, if anyone else is awake or alive.
>Motor check, then if mostly functional unstrap and check surroundings
>>
>>5162998
Prosthetics are a thing and it didn't looked like it was that much big of a deal that she attacked us. Looked more like general annoyance then anything else. If her mind recover and she is willing (probably doesn't have much choice) she will try prince class.
>>
>>5163053
The girl had a mind-blowout so bad it sent all of the pilots surrounding her into the Fifth Layer instantly. Unless Command is that desperate for pilots (are we even currently at war?), that should raise red flags about the cloning program and its products at the very least.
>>
>>5163069
>An Emperor Class Phobos. You only knew of two, only two had ever been reported in service.
>>
>>5162758
>>5162845
>>5163015
You take your time, shifting around and checking yourself for any wounds. Your hands were bandaged, dried blood seeping through the soft material. New bruises litter your arms, neck and legs. Dreadful hand shaped bruises, painful to touch, you undid the straps to get a better look at the rest of yourself. Your knees and feet were bandaged. More dark and old blood was littering the bindings. Your heart beats steadily and your lungs breathe easily, now that the tube has been removed. Your back was stiff as you tested how much you could move, pins and needles prickling your hips with discomfort as you swung your legs over the edge. The room was quiet, medical equipment orderly packed around the area. Other lines ran into your body, small monitors strapped to you.

Pulling them free you try to stand. Sharp pain aches across the balls of your cut up feet, but it wasn't enough to dissuade you. You had to know what happened to everyone else, you didn't make it to Tony and Cas in time. You just wish they were in one piece. Machines beep and tick around you, using the bed as support you manage to walk between furniture to furniture as you head for the door. The hospital gown you wore did nothing to help with the cool interior of the place. You work your way to the door, ignoring the occasional speckle of blood that marks your path. You made it out into a hallway, it was as sterile and empty as your room. You wander for a while, peeking into empty rooms, time dragging on. You had not even an ounce of the concept of time. You began to panic, maybe this was death.

Maybe your mind was trapped within the Umbral Core. Maybe you were some ghost in the machine. Rounding a corner you spot life, your heart flutters, a woman stands peering through a window. As you limp closer you notice her bright red hair and just how tall she is, the woman was probably over seven feet tall. As you move closer you pass the window she is staring through. A bed like your own rested in the center of the room, a large clear plastic tent was set up around it. Machines feeding in sterile air and chirping like birds. You stop to take a closer look. A bandaged body lies there, blood stained sheets underneath it. All four limbs are gone, tubes and lines run into the body, feeding and extracting liquids. "So, you're the one" You crept closer to the giant woman unsure of what to say to her, instead you keep looking through the glass. Finding a place at her side, you could see the low beat reading out on the heart monitor.
>>
File: Yuliya.jpg (114 KB, 736x930)
114 KB
114 KB JPG
>>5163804
What was left of Anastasia had numerous blood packs and IV drips running into her. "I never wanted to… to be a mother. I wanted not one part of them, yet everytime i see them. It breaks my heart. Knowing I've condemned them to this." Her voice breaks, an artificial hand tapping the glass. "She called for you…" You mumble in a low voice, you keep your eyes off the hurting woman. "They do look like me." The woman laughed, it was a short and sad thing that turned into a long sigh. "If only they weren't so small. I guess their genetic engineers were worse than Yuga's own huh?" The woman said matter of factly. You weren't sure what she meant. You went to ask, but another voice interrupted your own. "Yuliya! There you are." The voice is cordial and full of informality.

You turn and see a man around her age in a neat suit. "Oh! Pilot Mortimer! You shouldn't be out of bed." The man had two doctors trailing after him as he strode over. "Well well, I can't say I expected to find either of you here." The man's voice was cushioned with mirth. "What do you want, Gorgi?" The woman sighed turning to face the man, you did the same. Anastasia wasn't going anywhere. "It was terrible what happened, but these accidents are common. You, out of all the people here, should know that sad reality. Could we perhaps have this talk somewhere more comfortable." The man tries to gesture for you to follow him. But the tall woman holds her arm out, barring you from moving past her and continues to talk her words heavy with disgust. "Can't bear to look at the product of your hard work, Gorgi? I'm fine talking here. So is he." She spoke for you, not budging to the man's weasley intentions.

He sighed, loosening his tie and finally turning his attention onto the eviscerated child. They quickly fell away, focusing on the equipment in the room instead. "Yuliya, the testing is safer than ever… it's amazing, we've never had even half this many emperor class pilots this far before… you know that. We are moving in leaps and bounds, people are sure to get hurt. But that's just a necessary cost we must pay. I'm sorry it was one of yours, but she can still pilot." The large woman swung wide hand like a bear's claw, catching the man in his cheek with her open palm. "She can still pilot! Gorgi! She'll be lucky if she can even think again." The short man took the slap surprisingly well, simply backing up as the woman stalks up chest to chest.
>>
File: Gorgi.jpg (92 KB, 654x607)
92 KB
92 KB JPG
>>5163805
She was a good foot taller than him. The two other staffers averted their eyes, avoiding any confrontation. "I'm sorry, Yuliya! But this is the choice we have all made. We can't turn back now." The woman's sharp breaths race through each nostril. "What about him? When did she make the choice?" You felt an augmented digit poke you in the chest as she spun around, following it up she tapped against the glass. "Yuliya… you know why…" the woman sneers, leaning in closer to the Gorgi. "That doesn't make it okay you bastard." Her fist balled up, another swing was coming. Everyone could sense it. But a voice broke the rising tension, replacing the heat with a dead cold atmosphere. "That's enough Yuliya, I won't have you assaulting my staff." The voice was low, without any hint of urgency.

It lacked the need to be raised. You turn and spot another newcomer arriving from the same direction as you. It was a elderly woman, steely grey eyes watching you and you entirely. "I was wondering what might have made you skip our meeting… the last report I received recorded you as bed ridden." The words echoed down the hallway as she approached. Her aged face was lined with creases and liver spots. A slim smile spread across her lips revealing dark teeth. "What naughty grandchildren I have… Yuga's letters had painted the picture of an orderly and well mannered boy. But it seems like interaction with you fellow youthful pilots has produced something of a rebellious side. Well from what the reports and pictures disclose." You felt a shiver run down your spine, no one dared to interrupt the woman.

She came to a stop before you, she was short. But her personality and presence eclipsed everyone in the corridor. She stared up at you, reflectively looking away. But a fragile hand takes your chin, guiding you back into her gaze. The woman's eyes trace your face, without blinking she stared right into your own. You climb into your shell, the act earning a grin from the woman. She gave you a delicate slap on the cheek. "She included how much you liked to hide as well." The words were soft, her attention turning to the window and the child beyond. Her aged and sad lips pursed together. "Since you are here Yuliya you can join me and Pilot Mortimer. Come along now." The woman turned and began her slow journey back the way she had come.
>>
File: OldWoman.jpg (63 KB, 736x622)
63 KB
63 KB JPG
>>5163806
The tall woman waits for a moment before following, her hand guiding you along. You gave Anastasia's battered body one last look before the window slipped from view. You walk in silence for a few minutes before the woman speaks up again. "Ten minutes and 27 seconds…" The old voice croaks, you gave Yuliya an unsure glance. But more followed. "That was how long the two pilots you couldn't eject were exposed to the Fifth Layer for. Luckily their Internal Ejectors managed to save them for further exposure. Pilot Anthony Innokentiy Melnik and Pilot Castilla Zanhuesa. Both are catatonic, but thankfully Prince Class Phobos are commonly less daunting than your own Emperor." The words stung, you had failed to save your friends. It was your fault. You should have been able to save them, you felt cold.

A strange feeling you couldn't recognize was building in your chest, you smothered it and took deep breaths. "Do not feel responsible, you did an excellent job." The woman added almost wistfully. Her tone hadn't changed, the aged voice just oddly placid. Your journey continues and your mind wonders about the others. You hoped they would recover soon. "Six hours, 37 minutes and approximately twelve seconds." The length was enormous compared to the first set. "That was how long Pilot Anastasia… Assol Pavlovsky was exposed for. Of Course the majority of her physical wounds were received from excessive use of Manual Ejectors and her own internal system trying to save her. She was undergoing cardiac arrest when she was finally released from her Umbral Core. Thankfully, we were ready and waiting. All four of her limbs were subjected to Fifth degree burns, so they had to be amputated. Around forty percent of her body has suffered third degree burns. But those wounds she can recover from, it will be slow and painful. Excruciatingly so, but with time she'll be able to pilot, walk and even live. But that could all be for nothing. Her synchronization rate dropped to zero, if she ever does wake up. We do not know what we'll be getting back." Yuliya flinches at each word. They were harrowing to you too. The woman's tone finally changed, saddened by the truth she spoke.
>>
>>5163808
The silence that followed after stretched on, only the hum of lights and the steps you produced. Not another soul lingered within the medical halls. "Eleven hours, forty nine minutes and exactly twenty three seconds. I was there myself." You felt a root emptiness inside you at the length, Yuliya wasn't subtle enough to hide her sidelong glance. "Pilot #391 of the Theta Project. Mortimer. The record that Anastasia had pioneered was shattered by your own length spent down inside that fifth layer. At the time of Anastasia's ejection your own synchronization rate also fell to zero. For the remaining five hours it stayed so, until approximately thirteen minutes before you were ejected. Where at that point it steadily grew to one hundred percent. Of course you were also undergoing cardiac arrest. However you own wounds… We could find nothing present that could be deemed responsible. It has been thirty six hours and you're walking around mostly unaided." The woman paused to take a breath.

"The pilots you ejected are still suffering the ill effects. Pilot… Duchess Katerina Vladimirovna. Is still failing to peak beyond fifty percent sync. Pilot Grisha Sali Buriovic is suffering through neural latency issues and can barely walk. Pilot Alexander Innokentiy Melnik is suffering from temporary blindness." You felt weak, tripping on your own feet. The large woman wraps a hand around you, sharing your weight as the old woman's words crashed down on you. "I was wearing a heavy suit. It protected me…" You mutter breathlessly, struggling to keep up. "Did it now… Well how about we get some tea." The old woman thankfully halted at a door and opened it. Ushering you in. You were back within your hospital room, Yuliya guiding you back into the bed. The pair went around organizing a table that hadn't been in the room when you had left. Preparing tea and drinks. You get comfortable, the soles of your feet are wet with hot blood. You felt exhausted.

>What do you do, Pilot?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Talk to the Old Woman?Write in.
>Talk to Yuliya?Write in.
>Say nothing?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5163810
>Talk to the Old Woman?Write in.
>Ask about performance of fellow pilots that weren't affected by accident in direct manner?
>>
>>5163822
Good way to learns full names of everyone and get general levels of fellow pilots. Soooooo old woman is empress right?

Idk what else we can talk about. Shame one bro and bro's gf got fucked. If only they gave us second device it could be avoided
>>
>>5163810
Talk to the Old Woman?Write in.
Ask why everyone went into panic at once?
>>
>ask them both for any info they can give about mistress yuga and their opinions of her
>ask old lady where is our village and who's our family
>ask pilot why the betas hate us so much
>>
ask who's the other emp class besides yulya
>inb4 its yuga
>>
>>5163810
>Ask the old woman about the inciting incident that affected all of the novice pilots. What started it?
>>
>>5163810
- Pilot Anthony Innokentiy Melnik and Pilot Castilla Zanhuesa. Both are catatonic
- Pilot… Duchess Katerina Vladimirovna. Is still failing to peak beyond fifty percent sync. Pilot Grisha Sali Buriovic is suffering through neural latency issues and can barely walk. Pilot Alexander Innokentiy Melnik is suffering from temporary blindness

And Anastasia will need robotic prosthetics, if she can even recover.
Damn this test was not great at all.
>What do you do, Pilot?
Remain calm. Ask for a few moments so we can get some clothes on. Then return to the two older women.

>Talk to the Old Woman?Write in.
"While I think I was efficient, i still feel like I did not enough. Thank you regardless."
"Can i visit my friends while they stay here ?"
"Could i know what s next in our training and testing ? I would prefer to prepare .... and perhaps help my fellow pilots. Would it possible to have more precautions ? Would have things change during the test if we all used the Heavy suit ?"
"What could you tell me about the different projects ?"

>Talk to Yuliya?Write in.
"What can you tell me of Anastasia ?"
"Who is that man, what s his role for the military ? He looked like a businessman to me."
>>
>>5163810
YEAH CLONING IS SUCH A GOOD FUCKING IDEA GAIZ!!!!!!!!!!!! Fucking LMAO, this incompetent nigger retard should be fucking shot for, at the very fucking least, producing such a poor product, if not for outright torture of children. Holy fucking shit.
>>
>>5163810
>What do you say? Write in.
Ask what the fuck happened. I DO NOT want us to have to go through that ourselves.
>>
>>5163822
>>5163914
>>5163949
>>5163959
>>5164050
>>5164296
>>5164387
You lounge on the bed, watching the women start on making the tea. "While I think I was efficient, I can't help feeling like I didn't do enough… thank you regardless… could I visit my friends while they are here?" The confident lady turns to face the question. "I don't see why not, once you have recovered fully. We still have to monitor you further." The senior pilot assisted the older woman in finish up the tea. Steeping the steaming liquids and adding sugar and milk. "Do you mind if I get dressed?" You inquired sheepishly the older woman laughed. Yuliya raising an eyebrow. "Boy there isn't anything you have that we haven't seen before. Trust me." You shrugged, scanning the room for clothes and not spotting any. "What can you tell me of Anastasia?"

The massive woman stopped what she was doing for a second and then continued. "She is kind and very protective of her siblings… after the failures. She took it very hard. That's all I really know…" It struck a chord deep in your heart, the worn thing that was your mind is filled to the brim with questions. So you waste no time asking them. "Is everyone else ok? Was anyone else also affected?" The wrinkled woman looked up, apparently surprised by your words. Her serene face reading your own. "They were a little shaken up, but thankfully the pilots still linking at the time were in the first layer and had yet to be exposed to the majority of the Phobos'… complexities. They mostly passed out and were ejected without any assistance." Yuliya hands the woman two mugs and she crosses her way towards you.

Holding one out, you take it. Words fleeing from your mouth with little restraint. "Could you tell me what's next in our training and testing? I would prefer to prepare... and perhaps help my fellow pilots. Would it be possible to have additional precautions? Would things have changed during the test if we all used the Heavy suit?" She finds a seat on the end of your bed, a wrinkled hand drumming her knee. "Yes I can. Direct exercises are to take place, additional hands on experience with senior pilots. Live firing, navigation, equipment training and counter Phobos exercises. Along with other minute lessons beyond note."
>>
File: 1644808183761.jpg (12 KB, 1000x298)
12 KB
12 KB JPG
>>5164694
The woman hummed a short tune, resting a hand on your knee delicately. "Mortimer… You were pulled into the Fifth Layer, even with the Heavy suit on. I know that it can be hard to face, but the determining factor that kept you conscious wasn't the suit. I'm sure it helped but the others lack something you don't, the product of your training. They can only grow by experiencing and surviving events like these. I know, it is a dark and sad reality." She gave you another reassuring pat watching you further. The Theta Project had crafted you to weather such immense mental fatigue, they had made you only to suffer. It seemed that way to you.

She obviously knew you had more to ask. So you did. "What happened exactly? What started it? How did she pull us all down with her?" You let the words flow, each question prompting another. The tall woman pulled a chair over and sat down as the old woman took a long sip. "Now, only Pilot Anastasia can tell us what exactly caused her downward spiral. But I can tell you that the intricate details of a Phobos's nervous system and especially it's core are relatively unknown to us. Now obviously we have our own working theories on how they function, if only partially. Which all of the advancements we have made rely on. That being the assimilation of neurological patterns and such. But as you have experience first hand, there is a system that connects each core to one another. A bond that isn't shared between humans, well one that we don't believe we currently possess… Have you ever noticed that you could interpret what another pilot was doing? Feel them move? Hear words or ideas? If only briefly or faintly? Even though you had no way of contacting them. Initial linking binds our minds and the machine's together. But all Phobos share, so they can seemingly share what we give them. It isn't uncommon for the death of a pilot to set off a chain reaction among others. A reaction more violent than one would commonly expect. Whatever happened to her, it was shared across those linked within her vicinity. Instead of a berserk battle rage, you were shackled with mental trauma." The woman unloaded a lot of information, you had heard rumours that matched the words.
>>
>>5164696
You had a feeling that she wouldn't lie to you. But you got that feeling pretty often, worrying about naivety you didn't have a lot of information to work with. "Mistress… maybe you shouldn't… should you be telling him all this." Yuliya contributed, sipping from her own cup. Mistress? The word sent a twang of loneliness through you. It dried your throat, halting you from inquiring further, so you drink greedily. Waiting to see what would happen. "Why should I deceive him? He doesn't have much of a choice now does he?" She gives you a dark smirk. "Isn't that right?" The words burned into your mind.

Yuliya winced at the noise. "Anyway, he deserves something, he did pull your little Pilot out." Yuliya looks away and says nothing. "Mistress… Mistress Yuga. Can you tell me more about her?" You asked in the language, voice low, the words struggling to pass your lips. The older woman took a long breath, her eyes leaving her mug to focus on you. Yuliya leans back in her chair. "It has been a while since I've heard that name from a pilot that wasn't my own. I was against giving her it, but it isn't my place to impose…" The other Emperor class pilot snickers. The old woman shushes her. "She is the Fourth, so far anyway. I believe the Fifth is still undergoing development but I doubt I'll live to see her. I'm the Third… but I'm getting ahead of myself. To put it plainly, we are responsible for carrying on the work of the First Crown Empress Yugasava Eeska Petoff Romanov. We serve under direct royal decree, ensuring the survival of the 2nd Order of Eskarrian Principalities and the prosperity of the The New Eskarrian Empire… But her, well she was always a cold and distant child, the burden of our charge forcing her to push others away. She has spent around eighty years pursuing her own research. You're the only pilot she has ever produced, of course she had her hand in another one of the Emperor class pilots. But she kept you for herself. Your own display shows her years of effort seem to be paying off…" The truth left you stunned, the explanation left you more confused than ever.
>>
>>5164702
"She's a sour bitch, always has been. I never liked her." Yuliya adds. Your mind is a storm of confused thoughts. Eighty years. The Third. Empress. Yuga. Your head spun, Yuliya tutted. Sounding dispassionate as she speaks. "Mistress… maybe now isn't the best time to be sharing all this." The elder scoffs, waving a hand dismissively. "I didn't lie to you or the others, I'm only doing what she should have done already." With so many world changing truths you couldn't stop. You had to know more. "Where is my village? Who is my Family? Please, I need to know." The old woman tilted her head, inquisitively examining you. The ancient face finally showed unrestrained emotions, her eyes were heavy with a mix of remorse and sorrow.

"Your home? Well I can't say. I believe it was somewhere within the First district. But I'm not sure, your Mistress is famous for how strict she is with information. Even when it comes to her older sisters. I'm sorry but I don't know more." The words made your heart drop, the memories slipping through your fingers again and again. Your eyes moved on to Yuliya. "Why do the Beta candidates hate me? Anastasia said she didn't trust me because of Mistress Yuga." Yuliya didn't look you in the eyes, focusing on the older woman. "The Beta Commander and your Mistress have a long and troubled history. He blames her for the complications in the cloning procedure… he claims she sabotaged his work and took it for herself." That shocked you, unsure if it could've actually happened.

Their commander clearly had an axe to grind and didn't care who suffered because of it. "Who is the other Emperor Class pilot in service?" The Third Yuga smiles, her distant exterior shifting further away. "Ah that would be my sweet little Vladimir, you remind me of him… You will meet him eventually." The idea interested you, facing other pilots. Ones who had endured the horrors of war and the machine. "What could you tell me about the different projects?" Yuliya sat up and let out a cough interrupting the woman from disclosing information. "Mistress…" The Third clapped her hands jovially "Perhaps I can't disclose that. I'm sure you can understand." You nodded, they weren't her secrets to share.
>>
>>5164704
"Ok then, Who is that man, what's his role in the military? He looked like a businessman to me." Yuliya laughed and spoke first "Gorgi? That little shite. He is an interior ministry liaison. Don't trust a word that comes out his swarmy rat mouth." The elder Yuga said nothing clearly content to let her pilot talk, you assume she agrees with the opinion. You sip from your mug as the door to your room opens.

The familiar face of Dr. Yumigawa appearing, her eyes light up when she notices your condition. "Well, I can't say I expected you to have any visitors. You are full of nothing but surprises Morty. Mistress Yuga, Yuli it's good to see you both. I just wish it could have been under better circumstances." She carried a large envelope to her chest. "Me too, but we have business to attend too, before Gorgi gets himself into any trouble." The Old woman gave you a careful smile before standing. "We'll reminisce another time Haru. Until then." The duo left. Leaving you with the foreign woman. Haru spent her time checking you responses, excitedly she hummed. Insisting you relax and rest while she took readings and measurements. Her tools and testers cool on your skin, it wasn't long before she rushed out insisting you rest. You didn't need to be told twice sleep stealing you.


The World is busy dying. She is dead. The land is ivory and the wind is molten light. Streaks slashing like horizontal rain, sizzling against the snow. You keep up the march, traversing the pale void the best you could. You felt them, their hate and madness. Like a foul stench it led you towards them. The sky howls as something massive cleaves through the air above your unit, resounding out against the storm. A blinding white light blinks into life in the distance. The night turned to day for a breath. Then your Umbral Core filtered the light, shading you from the worst. The shockwave knocking you back for only a moment. A voice broke the LO comm. "Fool, have you come all this way to die?" A voice hisses before clouding the line with a Wretch's cackle. "Don't worry Half Soul, we'll send you to your whore!" The Brute knew how to feed the fire that burns inside you. You sink into the blaze, feeling it consumed you. Fueling you, driving you on, they were splitting up. Fleeing you and the end you brought for them.

>What do you do, Halfsoul?
>What do you say? Write in.

>Chase the Wretch?
>Chase the Brute?

Unit Name: The Waking Nightmare
Unit Class/Type: Emperor/Rapier
Unit Pilot: The Half Soul
Exterior A.Plating: 300/147
Interior N.Cluster: 200/165
>>
>>5164708
That s a lot of info. Not bad, we know why Beta hated us so much and know more of our .. mistress. We should ask someone why they use mistress instead of a military rank or something more aristocratic.

>What do you do, Halfsoul?
Track down both of them, so we can hunt down the second after the first. Remain active for find any possible traps or terrain advantage they can use against us, or us against them.

>What do you say? Write in.
"Death comes from all. But how can you deliver me death if the two of you flee like the cowards you are ? No since you run away and expose your backs, let me grant it to you."

>Chase the Wretch?
>>
>>5164708
>Chase the Wretch?
>>
>>5164708
>Chase the Wretch?
>>
>>5164708
>Chase down the Wretch
The Brute will come to us, if he behaves as his name.
>>
>>5165057
>>5165116
>>5165183
>>5165214
The freezing wind has no mercy, screaming like a mad woman. Uncaring for your hunt or fire.
"Death comes for all. But how can you deliver me death if the two of you flee like the cowards you are? No, since you run away and expose your backs, let me grant it to you." The bile within you mind wished to be released, death was your attonemen. But it would wait, you wouldn't go alone into the long night. "Fool, It is done. Go find a hole to die in!" The Wretch replies, voice filled with the tantalizing hints of fear and dread. It drove his madness, your shadow always hounding his.

He knew you wouldn't give up, he was already trying to escape… "Half Soul, if only you heard how she screamed. I'll show you why!" The Brute coughed, the sound wet and heavy… Ir was disgusting, his core oozing the filth within his mind, you could feel all those weak and broken bodies twisting under his might. You feel them tremble against your flesh. Your fire consumes them, granting the poor souls the death they deserve. But those ghosts you feel are beyond saving. "Oh, I'll show you well, Half Soul." The dead men flee further, their mocking barks calling out for you to give chase. Your fangs bare, it was time. She would be avenged. They would die. Both of them. The pilots scattered like cockroaches, separating in different directions.

You wouldn't let them escape, reacting to your thoughts and without second prompting an new observer lens blinks into existence. Floating bound to a thin limbed body it peels itself away from your mechanical frame. You see your tattered form and it sets off. Through the snowstorm thin wings split the air as the scout drone follows The Brute. His odor is easily traceable. Your attention turns to the wretch first. You scan the snow fields, aware of the cowards love for tricks and traps. It isn't long into your chase when his tracks lead you into the cadaver of a factory. Blown out and half buried, your sensors pick up traces of explosives. Hastily planted in his desperate attempt. The snowfall is already covering the small explosives. You were sure he was around. Crouching low, you check your weapons.
>>
File: 1644870321356.jpg (85 KB, 1080x903)
85 KB
85 KB JPG
>>5165539
>What did you bring, Half Soul?
Choose one
>What do you say? They know you're coming anyway.

>The Prototype Eski Bolt Thrower.
Damage: 3d4
Pen: 1/4
Ammo: 76/120
Type: Bolt

>The Xeno-Matter Musket.
Damage: 10d8
Pen: 1/2
Ammo: 23/30
Type: Rail

>Weapon Ammo type Explained.

>Bolt Ammo Type.
Highly accurate rounds that explode dispensing repurposed Alien shrapnel on detonation or after a set designation range specialized in eliminating lightly armoured and infantry targets.

>Rail Ammo Type.
Xeno-alloy tipped warheads specialized in puncturing Phobos chassis and up armoured targets before detonating under the concussive force.

>Weapon Damage Explained.
Damage Dealt when a Skill check is successful.
Critical success deals double damage.

>Weapon Penetration Explained.
Weapon Penetration determines the spread of damage across external and internal components of a target.

>¼ A Quarter of total damage is dealt to Internal Integrity.
>½ Half of total damage is dealt to Internal Integrity.
The remainder is soaked up by the External Integrity

>What do you do, Half Soul?

>Skirt around the Factory. Check for other signs of the pilot or traps? Body Test.
>Attempt to deactivate the Mines. Head deeper into the corpse building? Skill Test.
>Trigger the Trap safely?
>Do something else?Write in
>>
>>5165540
>The Xeno-Matter Musket.
>Trigger the Trap safely?
Throw a big fucking rock.
>>
>>5165540
Question, so are we choosing which weapon we have, or do we have them both?
>>
>>5165594
Pick one to have. Only get one
>>
>>5165540
>The Prototype Eski Bolt Thrower.
>Attempt to deactivate the Mines. Head deeper into the corpse building? Skill Test.
>>
>>5165540
>The Xeno-Matter Musket.
When hunting large game, we take the appropriate gun. Even if the Bolt thrower would be useful for bringing down the building or triggering traps, we'll want the big damage and pen for getting the kills on other Phobos
>Attempt to deactivate the Mines, but skirt the outside of the building, looking to spot him.
If we rush inside, he's either working or has probably set something up besides a piddling minefield. If we are able to deactivate the minefield, we can go in with the element of surprise
>>
>>5165540
>>The Xeno-Matter Musket.
Give that bitch a canon. Idk why would we pick other gun. Damage difference is too big. QM did you fat fingered that extra 0?
>Attempt to deactivate the Mines. Head deeper into the corpse building? Skill Test.

>Do something else?Write in
If we can quickly activate them back pick one or two too use as grenades just in case. IF we can
>>
>>5165639
Damage is per shot. So firing off salvos from the bolt thrower will mince softer targets. But you'd need more rounds to whittle down a big boy.

The Musket can deal high damage to a big target. But the less rounds make it harder to reasonable use on softer targets.

>With the mines deactivated you can use them how you wish.
>>
>>5165652
How many 'shots' we could send with Eski Bolt Thrower per round?
>>
>>5166072
Between 1-10 a Shot. It's a automatic weapon. Depending on how many Action Points are spent you could make around 4-6 shots a turn.

>But we'll get to AP when in a bit.

The Musket is slower since a warhead must be loaded after firing.
>>
>>5165639
>>5165638
>The Xeno-Matter Musket.
>Attempt to deactivate the Mines. Head deeper into the corpse building? Skill Test.
Writing.
>>
>>5166492
Looking down you find the reliable length of your Xeno-Matter Musket. A warhead and charge already pounded into place, the unsavory conditions made you weigh it's operational effectiveness. It had already bloodied a considerable number of Elysians this day. Dutifully it still served. You whispered to the weapon a grateful thanks, the nonsensical act one of the taints of insanity. Your sights linked and you were sure the weapon was ready to kill. You had no time to waste going around the Factory complex, the mines wouldn't be enough to kill you. The Wretch just needed to slow you down while he ran. You had to work quickly and skillfully, Empress knows how many other units were scattered across the killing fields. She would have your company soon. Kneeling your mind wavered as the technical assistant drones skitter down your metalic body. You were them, mind puppeting the little works of metal. The explosives were simple weighted mines, with some careful fiddling you could deactivate them and save use later. HS.32s simple equipment you were accustomed to using. In the gloom of the ruins you hastily go about deactivating the bombs, only the bemoaning blizzard and the shreiks of distant gunfire to serenade you.

!!SKILL TEST!!
>Roll dice+3d6+3
>Highest of the first three rolls will be used.
>Stats give a bonus to relevant tests
>Target: 10
>>
Rolled 2, 5, 5 + 3 = 15 (3d6 + 3)

>>5166510
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 6 + 3 = 19 (3d6 + 3)

>>5166510
>>
>>5166510
>>
Rolled 6, 4, 3 + 3 = 16 (3d6 + 3)

Let's go
>>
>>5166519
Dice god's laugh at us when they give us super good rolls when it's mild shit. But when it gets serious we bearly scrape by
>>
File: +Snow.jpg (90 KB, 1452x1080)
90 KB
90 KB JPG
>>5166516
>>5166519
>>5166532
15, 19, 16
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Skill Gained

At the expense of time you manage to easily retrieve the eight small explosives devices the Elysian bastard had so pathetically placed. Then you spotted the second set, the fiend had gone to the effort to hide the more lethal XB-1 Seekers. Placed between and under rubble already heavy with thick banks of snow. Six are well hidden, the drones collect and sort the bombs, storing them within your own emptied ordnance hollows. Before they can finish securing the load you are already back on the trail. Stalking through the skeletal remains of the brick and mortar building, you scan meticulously. Eyes open for any other boobytraps or ambushes, the aged metal frames and rusted factory equipment interfere with the readings.

Ghosts watching you from every dark corner. False positives bouncing back and forth. The age-old traces of what once was made here. You stoop low, slipping between blown out and battered assembly lines. The Waking Nightmare feeds the core positive readings of minute inferred streaks. Glimpses of life. But no certainty. It could have been almost anything. But the machine whispers of eyes. It was just as mad as you are. What was left of your broken mind tense and ready. Someone was watching you, you scan further. Pushing through the boxed in the killzone of the interior. Your large frame cramped within, you step through a non-existent wall and out into a loading area.

The open sky meets you once again with buffering hail. Rail tracks and discarded vehicles line the deserted place. Giving chase along the ancient tracks you head back into the storm, you were gaining on him. Your mind blinked in and out, the scout drone announcing the Brute's path. He had turned around, traveling in a wide berth. But he was definitely heading back towards your prey, the idiots trying to trap you. The rails led into a thickly wooded area, a forest of giant pines swaying in the heavy winds. The plants succeed in encircling your path. But the Elysian degenerate was still too far away, he would have his turn once you had crushed the Wretch. You lick your savage lips, the sudden wetness bringing pain as you taste the salty copper. The thick and flakey blood wasn't your own, you swallow the few morsels that stick to your tongue. Slimy and gritty, She tasted as good as ever.
>>
File: The Wretch.jpg (261 KB, 1080x2004)
261 KB
261 KB JPG
>>5166667
Weapon of an Empire OST.
Track 5 - Mouth, full of Blood. Eyes, full of Asshole.
https://voca.ro/1lfL4lChUncs

Savagely you grin as the stink of panic grows, then you spot the Wretch. His top heavy Phobos is hunched over, heavy arms holding it up. The fool was silhouetted against a snow bank, he was exposed. Nothing but a dumb animal. You feel the flicker of IR sensors, your vision mode switching in an instant. Streaks of light climb out from the surrounding gloom. Many snapping to life as you halt your advance. Some wobble and sway, markers mounted onto infantry weapons hiding within the tree lines that border the railway. Other beams cut through the snow bank the enemy Pilot was next to.

The Wretch turns to face you. The low whine of encrypted communication channels are tuned into by The Waking Nightmare. However you couldn't break it. Finally the Wretch spoke, his words blasting free from external speakers. "Fool! This is your grave. We'll send you off with a dirge you deserve." The Thing's voice was lathered with a kind of smugness and glee that made your skin crawl. The facade of bravery. You were fed lock-on warnings as the infantry surrounding you fanned out. Their heat signatures finally released from whatever was hiding them. Without even noticing the Nightmare fed you even more scan results, the truth galvanizing your resolve. You had no other choice but to fight. It was in your nature after all. They demanded it.
"FIGHT!" "FIGHT!" "FIGHT!"

They were howling with laughter.
You were standing in a grave, one that was far too small to withhold you. Death would have to try harder than this to claim you now.

Unit Name: The Howler
Unit Class/Type: Emperor/Rapier
Unit Pilot: The Wretch
Exterior A.Plating: 300/87
Interior N.Cluster: 200/105
>>
File: 9FAm.gif (370 KB, 500x330)
370 KB
370 KB GIF
>>5166669
Your toes flex, crushing the cold snow between them. Your fingers rolling along the lethal body of your weapon. Your mind burns with a madness that needs to devour all.

>Combat has Begun
>Turn 1

>Actions and Action Points Explained.

Each Phobos has a Baseline amount of Action Points. That Baseline amount is affected by a Pilot's Sanity and Suit type.

Action Points are spent during turns to take actions. A Pilot regains 2 AP at the end of each turn.

>List of Actions and Cost.

>Equipment Use: 1 AP
The action of using secondary combat equipment such as Grenades, scanners or Improvised moves.

>Skill Use: 2 AP
The action of using Pilot or Phobos specific Combat Skills, such as ??????.

>Shoot: 1 AP
The action for using a firearm without aiming, Skill test is rolled without stat modifier.

>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
The action for using a firearm while aiming, Skill test is rolled with stat modifier.

>Find Cover: 1 AP
The action of avoiding attacks quickly, Body test is rolled without stat modifier.

>Duck and Cover: 2 AP
The action of avoiding attack carefully, Body test is rolled with stat modifier.

>Reloading: 1 AP
The action for reloading a weapon. Fills ammo count.

>Help: 1 AP
The action for helping or assisting another Pilot or Phobos.

>Moving: 2 AP
The action for moving.


>What do you do, Half Soul?
>Available Action Points: 12
>What do you say? Any last words Hero?

Unit Name: The Waking Nightmare
Unit Class/Type: Emperor/Rapier
Unit Pilot: The Half Soul
Exterior A.Plating: 300/147
Interior N.Cluster: 200/165
Action Points: 12
Skills: ???

Inventory:
Xeno-Matter Musket. - 23/30
HS.32s Tactical Mines. - 8
XB Seekers Mines. - 6
>>
>>5166671
Few questions. What is damage on this two? Are they automatically deal damage or we still have pass skill check?
HS.32s Tactical Mines.
XB Seekers Mines.
What threat level is infantry? How much damage we could expect from them?
>>
>>5166681
Also how many AP movement Brute's need to approach us?
>>
>>5166671

>Aim and Shoot
At the wench.
>Find Cover
Go for a tree line.
>>
>>5166671
>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
>>
>>5166681
HS.32 deal roll 2d20 1/4 damage after a skill test for throwing. No test if they were placed.

XB Seeker mines deal roll 3d20 3/4 damage after a skill test if throwing. No test if placed.

Infantry weapons won't do any serious damage. But Infantry is usually accompanied by and work with combat vehicles or launcher teams. They are the real threat.

>>5166685
The Brute is still very far away.
The Wretch is within 1 AP of movement
Around 200-300 meters away.
>>
>>5166687
+1
>>
>>5166671
How are turns resolved we act enemy act or it's simultaneous and we follow action points?
>>
>>5166701
Protagonist will always go first.
Then enemies act.
Rinse and repeat.
>>
>>5166705
And there is no limit on how much AP we can use from available ones?
>>
>>5166671
Exterior A.Plating: 300/87
Interior N.Cluster: 200/105
Wretch total HP is 192
Per shoot on average we deal 45
We have 12 AP
We need 4,3 shoots to hit sooo how about
>5xAim and Shoot: 2 AP
>>
>>5166714
There is no limit on how much AP can be spent. However you only gain 2 AP at the start of a turn.

>>5166701
Addendum. Some Pilot Skills will trigger before actions are taken.

>>5166722
>The Xeno-Matter Musket must be reloaded between each shot. I mentioned it above but haven't properly recorded it.

So a few AP would have to be spent on reloading between shots.
>>
>>5166671
>6xEquipment Use: XB Seekers Mines.6 AP
>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
>Reloading: 1 AP
9 AP used

Wretch total HP is 192
6x3d20 avg shoot 33 total avg 198
1x10d8 avg shoot 45
total 243
>>
>>5166749
I can add extra aimed shoot and reload just to be sure in case we roll dog shit. But this should kill him turn one and give us time to restore AP
>>
>>5166749
+1
I like this plan of just loosing a shot then following up with a scatter of the mines.
I might suggest rushing him in melee while doing so, instead of reloading.
Would interfere with the fire of whatever heavier support the Wretch has, for fear of friendly fire, and considering he’s apparently top-heavy, I doubt he’s at his best when grappling

(Also chance of glorious melee kill)
>>
>>5166859
If anything I would add
>Duck and Cover: 2 AP
Our body is not that great I have no idea what his special skill is and last time we entered melee we got fucked. SO I would prefer to avoid it
>>
Ok so it's a draw between
>>5166687
>>5166697
Shoot and take cover in the trees.

>>5166749
>>5166859
Hit him with a heavy salvo and either take cover or Charge into melee range.

>I'll leave it open for another hour and then call it. I'll roll if it is still a draw.
>>
>>5166749
Support
>>
>>5166749
>>5166894
Writing. Update will be soon and we'll need some rolls.

The Half Soul's 1st Turn Actions
>6xEquipment Use: XB Seekers Mines.6 AP
>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
>Reloading: 1 AP
>Duck and Cover: 2 AP
11 AP Used
2 AP Remains.
>>
File: Bang.gif (793 KB, 217x163)
793 KB
793 KB GIF
>>5166985
>[Skill - Pack Call]
The Wretch spends 2 AP Activating, Pack Call.
From the barrel chested Phobos a pack of 6 Hunter Killer drones dislodge themselves and spread out to hunt a Target. While sleek and thin, they mimic the The Howler in design.

Throwing back his head the Wretch lets out a tremendous roar. Screeching encrypted signals race through the snowy air. A pack of small drones scuttle from his body and spread out into the surrounding area. You feel their sensors pinging off your core as they target you.

You had no time for words, your actions were loud enough. The Phobos reacted to your intentions as you simultaneously had them, service drones quickly shared the load of XB mines into your left hand as it dropped into place by the ordinance hollow on your side. The machine fed the targeting information instantly into the explosive devices as they were ready. You acknowledge their paths, six orange stripes climb high into the night sky to rain down on the Emperor Class. All while your right hand raises the Xeno-Matter Musket to your shoulder. Your arc is high and set, elegantly the Nightmare lobs the seeker mines into the sky. With a series soft pops their chassis birth sleek wings, as small propulsion units kick in, guiding them on their way. You waste no time, hands rotating out and taking up positions as you steady the Musket.
>>
File: CyaLaterPhoboSexuals.gif (288 KB, 240x162)
288 KB
288 KB GIF
>>5167035
The path was already locked in as the weapon was simply raised to aiming position. Linking sight units you focused in on the Phobos. The round snaps out with a billowing howl that matches the Elysian's death cry as you pull the trigger within your mind. A golden steak in the night is the last thing you see before your attention returns to the weapon. Without pausing to acknowledge the damage you have dealt, you begin the reloading process. Flipping a switch a burst of carbon dioxide floods the barrel, blowing clear any debris and extinguishing any flames or embers within. Another bag of detonation powder is rotated into place, as you drive the spear like warhead down into the barrel.

With the weapon prepared you movie like a beast, stooping low your break into a powerful sprint for only a few steps before diving into the tree line, smashing through the wildlife and wooden giants you land with a roll and vanish mostly out of sight.

>6xEquipment Use: XB Seekers Mines.6 AP
>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
>Reloading: 1 AP
>Duck and Cover: 2 AP
11 AP Used
1 AP Remains.

>The Half Soul's 1st Turn Rolls order.
For skill rolls we will be using the first three rolls for each test.
However for Damage rolls. The first roll will be taken.

For simplicity I will call for rolls and Rollers will label their rolls.
>>
>>5167039
>First Roll.
Best of Three Skill Test.
>Roll dice+3d6+3
Target is 13

For simplicity and saving time this roll will be for the entire 6xSeeker Mines action. Target adjusted to match the difficulty.

>Reply with rolls to this post.
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 5 + 3 = 19 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167041
Eat Shit Wench!
>>
Rolled 5, 5, 5 + 3 = 18 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167041
Let There Be Blood
>>
Rolled 2, 2, 4 + 3 = 11 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167041
>>
>>5167042
>>5167049
>>5167064
19, 18, 11
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+1 Skill Gained

The Half Soul was too busy carrying out his actions to bear witness to the accuracy of the XB Seeker Mines. If he had, he would have been impressed as all six of the airborne missiles smashed into the exterior of the Phobos one after another. Knocking the top heavy titan back a step.

Pseudo-Captain Yurgin Jalla of the Elysian 61st Anti-Phobos Division, 'The Hell Badgers' lay prone within a hollowed out snow fox hole, the man knew it would do little to protect him from the attention of the war machines. If he even caught just the tail curtain of the wrath from one be it accidental or on purpose. Little would remain. But it filled him with a faint slither of hope to survive the engagement. For after all they had the Eskarrian imperialist outnumbered and outgunned. Those thoughts and hopes. Those dreams of survival dwindled as he witnessed the enemy Pilot swiftly loose a swarm of guided mines. The small explosions that peppered the Phobos weren't the real threat. The mine part was just the delivery system, It was the grinding and high pitched whistling of the drill tipped seekers burrowing for the Machine's Core.

>Second Roll.
Seeker Damage Rolls based on success of first roll.

>6 individual 3d20 rolls
>Roll dice+3d20
¾ Damage dispersal for the total of each roll.

>I do not mind additional rolls from the same tripcode during damage, but please limit post order so others may get a chance to roll before you roll again.
>>
Rolled 20, 1, 11 = 32 (3d20)

>>5167072
Bullseye
>>
Rolled 14, 6, 1 = 21 (3d20)

>>5167072
>>
Rolled 19, 6, 18 = 43 (3d20)

>>5167072
I do love a good perspective from the mortals in the shadows of giants
>>
Rolled 8, 3, 6 = 17 (3d20)

>>5167072
>>
Rolled 9, 7, 18 = 34 (3d20)

>>5167072
Seeing if the fire dice continue
>>
Rolled 17, 16, 4 = 37 (3d20)

>>5167072
>>
File: WarCrimeKekNoSuchThing.gif (844 KB, 245x245)
844 KB
844 KB GIF
>>5167079
>>5167086
>>5167103
>>5167155
>>5167205
>>5167266
>These XB mines might be a fucking War Crime.
>I'll round the number up once it is on or over .50

¾ of 32
8 Exterior Damage.
24 Interior Damage.

¾ of 21.
5 Exterior Damage.
16 Interior Damage.

¾ of 43.
11 Exterior Damage.
32 Interior Damage.

¾ of 17.
4 Exterior Damage.
13 Interior Damage.

¾ of 34
8 Exterior Damage.
26 Interior Damage.

¾ of 37
9 Exterior Damage.
28 Interior Damage.

>Total Damage Dealt.
139 Interior Damage.
45 Exterior Damage.

Unit Name: The Howler Unit Disabled!
Unit Pilot: The Wretch Pilot Eliminated!
Exterior A.Plating: 300/87 -45!
Interior N.Cluster: 200/105 -139!

The Wretch's call for aid was interrupted by the detonation of the mines. From within his sour Umbral Core he heard the hissing and scraping of the Seekers, he felt the pain surge throughout his entire body as six XB mines ripped and gnawed through the alien ores that made up his hide and organs. His howl of pain joined in with his encrypted orders as the little metal maggots writhed around in his guts. His drones wouldn't process them, but the other units sharing the channel heard his agony. The pathetic whines of pain. It didn't stop as one after another they ravaged him, they were in his arms and legs. Gods how they were everywhere. He screamed against and again, this time fear truly claiming him. Writhing within his core he twists swatting at the invisible threat inside him, trying to stop them as they nibble and stripped away his body. His gutted Phobos failed to recreate the act. Instead a jittery death throes taking its place. The machine cursed him, dragging his butchered mind into the deep.

Assistant Gunny Vika Ilye watched through the infrared sight as the giant bled great spurts of sparking metal. The clattering and tinks cutting through the roar of the world around her. She covered her eyes as white hot globs of slag trickled from the Phobos' open wounds painting it bright in the night. The Destroyer's comms were set low, radio silence mostly in effect. Orders from the howler only. The young gunner swore that despite the driver cutting the comms off the moment the screaming started she could still hear the cries echoing down from the hollowed out machine as it swayed in the wind. As if stunned, wobbling back and forth like a weary boxer. And despite the cold she began to sweat.

>Third Roll Best of Three Skill Test.
Using simple test rules.
Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 3 + 3 = 17 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167289
>>
Rolled 1, 5, 4 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167289
>>
Rolled 4, 6, 4 + 3 = 17 (3d6 + 3)

>>5167289
>>
>>5167315
>>5167320
>>5167332
>Fourth Roll Musket Damage Roll.
>Roll dice+10d8 ½
>Only one roll needed.
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 3, 3, 7, 6, 6, 2, 1, 1 = 37 (10d8)

>>5167353
Phobos kill?
>>
>>5167357
>Fifth Roll Best of Three Body Test. Will set Target for enemy attacks.
>Roll dice+3d6+2
>Last rolls for Tonight.
>When all rolls are finished I post.
>Will take the enemy turns tomorrow.
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 6 + 2 = 14 (3d6 + 2)

>>5167379
>>
>>5167315
>>5167320
>>5167332
>>5167357
17, 13, 17
!!TEST PASSED!!

½ of 37
19 Interior Damage.
18 Exterior Damage
Unit Name: The Howler Umbral Core Destroyed!
Exterior A.Plating: 300/42 -18!

The Howler only stays standing for a second. Then the Xeno-Alloy warhead strikes the Phobos. The brief silence that trailed the death screams broken by the snap of the finishing blow. The warhead detonates carrying the Umbral Core and thirty percent of the upper torso of Phobos flying off into the nearby woods. Decapitating the alien machine and erasing the body of the Wretch all together. But the Howler didn't fall, lacking a head it simply leaned forward. Thick arms holding up the haunted suit of armor. However the Wretch's suffering did not end, his mind trapped in suffering within the shattered frame. Some say that even to this very day comm units can pick up his whispers for mercy within the surrounding area.

Pseudo-Captain Yurgin Jalla watched in abject horror as the Phobos stiffly stood headless, watching over the ambush like a confused animal. The unit was beyond use. The Comms suddenly burning to life, radio silence gone careening off into the night along with whatever remained of The Wretch. "Movement! East! Fucking East!" Voices cried as the lethal giant moved fluidly, barreling into the forest they used as cover. "Phobos is down! He's fucking toast." The snapping of trees matched lightning as men cried out before being cut off. The enemy crushed the unlucky few to have taken up positions near to it, the luckier men only suffered being pincushioned by inch long splinters. The Pseudo-Captain could barely make out the looming threat within the gloomy woods and the bush began to return fire.
>>
So the ghoul is the first empress's soul
>>
>>5167379
>Still need two more rolls for the body test.
>>
Rolled 1, 5, 3 + 2 = 11 (3d6 + 2)

>>5167379
Let's go
>>
Rolled 5, 4, 3 + 2 = 14 (3d6 + 2)

>>
Rolled 3, 4, 2 + 2 = 11 (3d6 + 2)

>>5167412
Flee before the glory of the empire, you insects!
>>
File: tank-anime.gif (124 KB, 220x168)
124 KB
124 KB GIF
>>5167396
>>5167764
>>5167781
14, 11, 14 Body Test.
The Walking Nightmare - Target 14.

>Sorry for the Late post. Entire Island lost electricity. Lost my bet that it was because of Russia nuking Europe.
Using Data.

I will record the enemy turn here and roll for them below.

Then I'll describe the events in a post or two.
After that we will switch back for Turn 2

>Enemy Forces Turn 1
Light Combat Vehicle LV12 "Broodmother"
Light Combat Vehicle LV13 "The Unlucky"
Destroyer Type Ae2 "Snake Bite"
Destroyer Type Ae1 "Yapping Fox"
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Charlie.
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Alpha
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Bravo
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Delta.

>[Skill] [Fire Everything!] AP 4
The LV-series Combat Vehicles are outfitted to assist in Anti-Phobos operations. While the low caliber weapons are unlikely to do serious damage to a Phobos all of it's weapon systems can be linked to a single gunner seat. Allowing for an intense amount of firepower to be unleashed, while using all at once is a detriment to accuracy the sudden explosive action may corral a Phobos. Keeping it pinned or pushing it from cover.
>6 attacks at -4 each.

>Light Combat Vehicle LV12 "Broodmother"
[Skill] [Fire Everything!] AP 2

"Fucking paint him up!" The Commander, Gia Uustav of the Elysian Light Combat Vehicle LV12 "Broodmother" ordered into the low range communication unit of her vehicle. The radio operator cut through the panicked buzz to relay the order to those unbroken. Gia drove her elbow into the shin of the young gunner that sat behind her, urging the idiot to shoot. "Fire everything! East! East! East! Heading one-sixty now!" The boy in the olive overalls faltered. "but Ma'am... the Badgers!" His high pitched voice a low whine, like a child under the palm of his mother. "Now Sigi! Or we are all dead! Everything! One-sixty. Watch for the Target!" The boy didn't pull the trigger, his eyes watering. He wanted to go home, he didn't want to be here. "But Ma'am..." The boy whined again, voice a high pitch, breaking like the cries of a babe. Gia had no time for the milk sop. "Now! You little bastard!" She hissed, shifting in her seat she began to drive punches into his thighs. Finally, the young gunner opened fire, he watched the heading strictly. Eyes open for any Targeting Marker to appear, thankfully the tears hid the bright orange forms of the infantry.
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 5 - 4 = 9 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 1 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 4, 3, 4 - 4 = 7 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 2 - Target 14.
>>
Rolled 1, 4, 5 - 4 = 6 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 3 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 1, 3, 3 - 4 = 3 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 4 - Target 14
>>
>>5168246
>Lost my bet that it was because of Russia nuking Europe.
I'm glad you lost that bet :P
>>
Rolled 1, 4, 1 - 4 = 2 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 5 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 1, 6, 6 - 4 = 9 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168246
Shot 6 - Target 14
>>
>Light Combat Vehicle LV13 "The Unlucky"
[Skill] [Fire Everything!] AP 2

"By the Gods!" The Commander, Artir Mazunan of the Elysian Light Combat Vehicle LV13 "The Unlucky" whispers in shock. Witnessing the destruction the Eskarrian Phobos had dealt out, the death blow was almost casual. The beast was uncaring, chivalry non-existent. He prayed for his daughters and sons back on the isles. For the poor bastards at his side. But he knew The Brute was on his way, he just had to survive until then. Once support had arrived to take the attention he would be retreating. Fuck whatever command says. Gia's orders resound through the incense heavy interior of "The Unlucky" the crew kicking into gear as the voice snapped them awake. "Heading 25! The prey we hunt is within the tree line. Watch for a marker! Aim true, spill blood! By the Gods let be it so!" Artir roared, his crew taking up the chant as LV13 opened fire.
>>
Rolled 3, 2, 4 - 4 = 5 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 1 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 4, 3, 2 - 4 = 5 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 2 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 1, 5, 1 - 4 = 3 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 3 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 6, 2, 4 - 4 = 8 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 4 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 1, 5, 1 - 4 = 3 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 5 - Target 14
>>
Rolled 5, 2, 1 - 4 = 4 (3d6 - 4)

>>5168257
Shot 6 - Target 14
>>
File: tank-anime (1).gif (2.25 MB, 498x278)
2.25 MB
2.25 MB GIF
>Destroyer Type Ae2 "Snake Bite"
Aim and Shoot AP 2
Duck and Cover AP 2

"Fuck me sideways." Adine Lavine the Gunner of the Destroyer Type Ae2 "Snake Bite" mutters as the corpse of the Howler rained down around them. Clattering against the snow covered hull of the vehicle. Down his sight he glimpsed the lanky nightmare shift out of the path, breaking into a sprint and diving into the woods to the east. Ignoring the horror of his crewmates the barrel shifts, clearing a row of snow off the vehicle. He notices the shifting of the tree tops, and aims at where he believes the Phobos was hiding. Without any order he fired off a round, the AP shell glowing red hot as it left a trail of condensation in its path. The "Snake Bite" lurched, shaking the coat of snow free as the unit hurried to relocate and avoid any counter fire. Fire and Hide. Classic hunting manoeuvres.
>>
Rolled 5, 1, 1 + 2 = 9 (3d6 + 2)

>>5168272
Aim and Shoot. target 14
>>
Rolled 6, 1, 6 + 2 = 15 (3d6 + 2)

>>5168272
Body Test. Target Setting.
>>
>Destroyer Type Ae1 "Yapping Fox"
Aim and Shoot AP 2
Duck and Cover AP 2

The entire crew of the Destroyer Type Ae1 "Yapping Fox" watched in silence as the enemy Phobos crept past them. Unaware of their position, they had forsaken a clear shot into the Phobos' rear to ensure the encirclement went off without a hitch. The entire crew screams in horror as the first exchange of combat annihilates the Howler. "He's at 15! Deep. Aim low." The driver ordered, the crew pleading for him to hit it. "Shut the fuck up!" The Gunner hissed as his sight lined up on the heading, he swore the Phobos was within his sight. Firing off an Armor Piercing round. The "Yapping Fox" burst from it's pile of ferns, desperate to avoid any enemy fire.
>>
Rolled 3, 3, 4 + 2 = 12 (3d6 + 2)

>>5168281
Aim and Shoot - Target 14
>>
Rolled 1, 2, 2 + 2 = 7 (3d6 + 2)

>>5168281
Body Test. Target Setting.
>>
>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Charlie.
Use Equipment HE3 Grenades 1 AP
Use Equipment Odyr Target Tagger 1 AP

Rifleman 2nd Class, Arles of Fire team Charlie coughed up a mouthful of blood, the hot liquid dripping down his chin. He didn't bother to whip it off. The numerous jagged spears of pine that perforated his side couldn't be walked off. Baker, jazil and Lihli were gone. Arles could only just make out Baker's arm, pinched under the body of the pine tree the man had been hiding behind. At his side the corpse of sweet little Zazil was a dart board, she had taken most of the shrapnel for him. Her once pretty face now ruined. The dead eyes that hung from her sockets kept him from looking for too long.

He choked out a breath. Lihli had been clipped by the airborne war machine as he moved for cover, god knows where his head was. The bright red smear across the snow hinted it was all over the place. Turanovic, stumbled into view, he gave Arles a feeble nod. Steaming blood flows from him as he limps towards the enemy Phobos that was in a crouch nearby. Arles returned the gesture, he still had a job to do after all. As delicately as he could the man pulled the Tagger from Zazil's still warm hands. Her gloves sat on her lap, it had been too hard for her to operate with them on. Pulling his own gloves off his fingers bounced along the buttons. Raising the device he pointed it at the towering machine. Turanovic detonated with a soft pop, the world grew quiet as the flash hurt his eyes. Arles closed them, focusing on holding the device steady. It released a soft chirp as the tagger locked on. It was the last sound the man heard as life left him.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d6)

>>5168288
Grenade Damage. External only.
>>
Rolled 6, 1, 2 + 3 = 12 (3d6 + 3)

>>5168288
Simple Skill Test.
Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 5, 3, 2 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Alpha
Use Equipment Hornet Missile launcher 1 AP
Reload 1 AP

Skill Test - Target 14

"Tag! Fucking Tag! Fire you cunts!" Loader of Fire team Alpha, Yuric shouted, slapping the long barrel of the Hornet Missile launcher. The launcher pivoted, as it tracked the tagged Phobos. With a long fluted pop a bulky missle shot free, slipping off into the night in search of prey. "Fucking Loading!" The young man shouted at the annoyed members of his weapon crew, slamming a new missile into place with practiced ease.
>>
Rolled 3, 1, 4 + 3 = 11 (3d6 + 3)

>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Bravo
Use Equipment Hornet Missile launcher 1 AP
Reload 1 AP
Shoot 1 AP

Skill Test - Target 14

A second after Alpha, Fire team Bravo sends their own Hornet Missile out towards the Tagged Target. "Get another out there, now!" Pseudo-Captain Yurgin Jalla orders, climbing from his fox hole, the crew hastily loaded as the older man drew his service revolver and began to fire shots towards the giant in a hopeless sign of defiance. He hoped it would inspire his men.
>>
>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Delta.
Move 2 AP
Reload 1 AP
Shoot 1 AP

Fire team Delta had no chance of firing a shot, with the Phobos down they needed to focus fire and pin the bastard down. But their position left them with no line of sight. "Fuck it! Move up!" Minor Lieutenant Kozmov ordered, his riflemen hustled to pick up the launcher, toting it after the stalwart man as he ran from their fox holes and up to the edge of the elevated track. "Set up here!" He demands while clambering onto the track and raising his sub-machine gun. Firing off a salvo after the two Hornet missiles as his team hastily readed their own weapon system.
>>
I feel bad for the men and women facing down a goddamn Emperor with nothing but missile launchers and grenades.
Slightly less so for the tankers blowing the hell out of our cover and their allies.
>>
>I was actually scared the Nightmare would have gotten nuked.
>The Elysian forces performed worse than I had expected.

Crouching on your haunches you stand over the mangled mess of an Elysian squad, the lone surviving member weakly approaching you. Your core spots the HE3 Grenade a moment before it goes off. The intense pressure ripping off a few buckled exterior plates. But little else. The body that remains is a rag of meat. And luckily for him, as a storm of rounds smash in around you, a blazing light show of streaks and cracks. Snow melting under the intense barrage of low caliber rounds. Whatever remained of the Elysian troopers were turned into ground meat and that was it. The display was effectively fruitless. You notice the warning of a target lock as then the heavier rounds began to snap into the wooded area around the Nightmare.

You feel the anti-phobos rounds zip past your metalic flesh, trails leading back to their sources. The roar of hustling engines joined in the serenade, you glimpse the destroyers running like scared children. Warnings blared as two missiles entered the outer sensors of your unit, their targeting failed. Instead of avoiding the maze of trees both were detonated before even reaching a hundred meters around you. You targeting computers squeak out approximate sources of fire. Through the gloom of the trees, you can spot the Two destroyers seeking cover, moving swiftly they were troublesome targets. You glimpse the stationary LV vehicles, smoking barrels glowing in the night. Three groups of infantry were dug into the snow preparing for another barrage.

Unit Name: The Waking Nightmare
Unit Class/Type: Emperor/Rapier
Unit Pilot: The Half Soul
Exterior A.Plating: 300/147-2!
Interior N.Cluster: 200/165
Action Points: 3
Skills: ???

Inventory:
Xeno-Matter Musket. - 22/30
HS.32s Tactical Mines. - 8

>The Half Soul - Turn 2
>Gain 2 AP
>Action Points Available: 3

>Equipment Use: 1 AP
>Skill Use: 2 AP
>Shoot: 1 AP
>Aim and Shoot: 2 AP
>Find Cover: 1 AP
>Duck and Cover: 2 AP
>Reloading: 1 AP
>Help: 1 AP
>Moving: 2 AP
>>
>>5168345
>Equipment Use HS.32s Tactical Mines.: 1 AP
Target destroyers
>Equipment Use HS.32s Tactical Mines.: 1 AP
Target LV vehicles
>Equipment Use HS.32s Tactical Mines.: 1 AP
Target infantry
Yeet.
>>
File: WalkingNightmare.gif (3.5 MB, 498x278)
3.5 MB
3.5 MB GIF
>>5168349
>Be Me
>The Wretch.jpg
>Talks Shit.wav
>Gets Hit.gif
>>
>>5168349
Support Yeeting.
>>5168366
Kek
>>
>>5168345
Well, you know what they say about the best defense.....
+1 to >>5168349
Next turn I think we want to finish off any destroyer that remains, because those come the closest to dealing serious damage. And then probably start disengaging. The corpse of the Wretch will attract the Brute's attention, and the less time dealing with these flies the better.
>>
>Electricity is back
>Europe seems to be unnuked.

>>5168349
>Also everyone is rather spread out. So you'll have to aim at specific ones since they have different targets set.
>>
>>5168510
I have heard anything bout European war yet fren. So Biden and Putin havent gone full retard....for now
>>
>>5168510
>Destroyer Type Ae1 "Yapping Fox"
>Light Combat Vehicle LV13 "The Unlucky"
>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Delta
>>
>>5168349
support
let's see how he likes it
>>
>>5168349
>>5168381
>>5168448
>>5168924
>Destroyer Type Ae1 "Yapping Fox"

>Skill Test - Target 7
>Roll dice+3d6+3
Best of Three.
>>
Rolled 2, 3, 6 + 3 = 14 (3d6 + 3)

>>5168998
>>
Rolled 6, 1, 1 + 3 = 11 (3d6 + 3)

>>5168998
>>
Rolled 2, 4, 4 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5168998
This ain't chair but they will do
>>
>>5169005
>>5169010
>>5169014
>Damage Roll
Only need one.
>Roll dice+2d20
¼ damage dispersal.
>>
Rolled 13, 7 = 20 (2d20)

>>5169016
Ka-boom?
>>
>Light Combat Vehicle LV13 "The Unlucky"

>Skill Test - Simple Test.
>Roll dice+3d6+3
Best of Three.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 6 + 3 = 18 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169030
Unlucky being quite unlucky
>>
Rolled 1, 5, 6 + 3 = 15 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169030
>>
Rolled 3, 6, 4 + 3 = 16 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169030
Rollan
>>
>>5169042
>>5169060
>>5169062
>Damage Roll
Only need one.
>Roll dice+2d20
¼ damage dispersal.
>>
Rolled 18, 9 = 27 (2d20)

>>5169064
>>
>>5169070
>Welp. I was secretly hoping you'd roll badly so The Unlucky would survive. Those poor bastards lived up to their name.

>'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Delta
>Skill Test - Simple Test.
>Roll dice+3d6+3
Best of Three.

Failure: 3-7
Partial failure : 8-10
Partial success :11-13
Success : 14-18
Critical Success: 19+
>>
Rolled 6, 6, 4 + 3 = 19 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169073
>Those poor bastards lived up to their name.
Heh
>>
Rolled 6, 6, 5 + 3 = 20 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169073
>>5169076
Farming that skill levels. Thrown weapons are OP plox nerf
>>
Rolled 2, 5, 3 + 3 = 13 (3d6 + 3)

>>5169073
Holy shit these saps are so fucked
>>
>>5169076
>>5169077
>>5169081
>Damage Roll
Only need one.
>Roll dice+2d20
¼ damage dispersal.
>>
Rolled 18, 3 = 21 (2d20)

>>5169082
Roger that
Might want to archive the thread QM soonish, amazing first thread by the way, keep up the good work.
>>
File: Yeet.gif (3.5 MB, 600x338)
3.5 MB
3.5 MB GIF
Target 7
14, 11, 13
The lull in excessive violence signalled it was your turn to strike. They giggled like damn school children, whispering about how brutally you had killed the fool. The maddened voice wanted you to do it again Goading you further. The corpse of the emperor class loomed threateningly while headless. Whatever remained of The Wretch was finished, the brute still had his turn. The scouting drone chirped location data at you, the Elysian was still a while away. The madness inside you didn't cease, it didn't falter. Even killing The Wretch hadn't done anything to halt the descent. Only death would release you. The embrace only She could give you. You'd save your ammo, the anti-Phobos minds would deal with the light units surrounding you. One of the destroyers lagged, slowing to a crawl as it climbed a snow bank. The service drones feed a mine into your hand, targeting computers feeding you arcs. You ignore them, leaning back you sink into the depth of the layers below. Feeling the machine in earnest. The cold touch of the storm around you, pelting your naked body, the sensation made your corpse feel alive. Whipping the hand to the side, you sent the mine spinning towards the destroyer.

¼ of 20
15 Exterior Damage.
5 Interior Damage.

"Come on!" The crew hissed, rocking back and forth in their seats. Half out of anxiety and the other half out of hope it'll rock them free. "I'm Tr-" The HS.32s tactical mine striking the hull of the destroyer cut the Driver off. It detonated instantly sending shrapnel bouncing around the interior of the Destroyer. The pressure alone painted the rear crew team with sharp bone shards and what else remained of the liquefied driver. What survived cried out in horror, deafened and mangled within the tin can. Only the technician and loader barely survive, suffering through blown out ear drums and internal bleeding. The Gunner and his assistant had absorbed most of the Driver, so the shrapnel wounds were little more than scratches and splinters. Kicking open the rear hatch the duo limp out into the snow, content to leave the conflict zone.

Vehicle Name: Yapping Fox
Exterior A.Plating: 20/20 -15 Vehicle Disabled!
Interior Crew: 10/10 -5 Crew Crippled!

18, 15, 16
The Destroyer ceases to move as the mine erupts on top of it. Smoke and outturned metal spoke of the clear aftermath, you weren't done yet. Pivoting on your metal heels, the cold wind increased your pace. Picking another mine you aim at one of the LV vehicles, the thing was stationary. Clearly not realizing the threat you provided. Leaning back you felt a foot come off the ground, your momentum sending the mine soaring through the woods. Right towards the vehicle.
>>
File: ElysianBBQ.gif (1.36 MB, 320x180)
1.36 MB
1.36 MB GIF
>>5169092
"Loading!" The Loader and Gunners roar, through the sweet incense they worked to prepare the guns for another salvo. The other crewmen drummed on the interior, chanting war hymns. Calling for the Valkyries to come for their souls, golden and opulent Valhalla awaits. Artir said nothing, prayers resounding through his mind. From his seat he watches the Phobos turn to face them. Oh how he wished he was back on beautiful Avalon. It threw something towards the vehicle, closing his eyes as he pictured her face one last time. One he opened them again he was in the halls of his ancestors. The light armor did nothing to save the crew. All souls on board basked in the golden light of Valhalla as the ammo caches began to cook off. None survive.

Vehicle Name: The Unlucky
Exterior A.Plating: 10/10 !-20 Vehicle Destroyed!
Interior Crew: 10/10 -7 Crew Destroyed!

19, 20, 13
!!TEST PASSED!!
!!CRITICAL SUCCESS!!
+2 Skill Gained

The Voices cackle, demanding more. You were in the mood to oblige. An infantry man stood out, silhouetted on the tracks. Cast orange in the roaring flames of the burning LV unit. The rest of his men rushed to set up a launcher behind him, madly he fired his small weapon towards the woods. The rounds were going wide. You aimed for the small target, reeling back and swooping low, the mine threatening the skip along the ground.

Minor Lieutenant Kozmov fired brazenly, even as the heavier vehicles were hit. His crew was almost ready to fire. The three of the launchers could still crippe the Phobos, they could still survive. Those were the man's last thoughts as the small bicycle sized mine stuck him dead on. Erupting into a wave of pressure and jagged metal the unaware delta squad died just as suddenly. Eviscerated by the mine as it detonated right above them, crimson geysers sent skimming along the snowy landscape.

Unit Name: 'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Delta
Squad Integrity: 5/5 -21 Squad Destroyed!

>Enemy Forces Turn 2
Light Combat Vehicle LV12 "Broodmother"
Destroyer Type Ae2 "Snake Bite"
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Alpha
'The Hell Badgers' Fire team Bravo
>>
I wonder. Can we use movement to kill infantry and vehicles?
>>
>Mfw this was suppose to a tooth and nail fight to the death to show how lethal Phobos combat can be.

>Gone from heroic last stand to brutal massacre.

>Should I archive the thread now and start a new one?

>How long do I have left to archive?

>Still a little bit away from the finishing point I had imagined.

>Making lunch so next post may be in a while. As I write up and roll for the enemy Forces.
>>
>>5169095
Infantry 100%
Vehicles? You might have to stamp on it a lot.
>>
File: file.png (425 KB, 840x884)
425 KB
425 KB PNG
>>5169097
Don't you dare doubt the Dice Gods QM, they can and will fuck with you. Happened many times when I ran my own quest.
Fight theme https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyMz7g3iHb0
>>
>>5169097
A new thread may be a good idea.
I was also honestly suprised at how hard we tore them a new one.
>>
File: Mines go Brrr.png (502 KB, 681x421)
502 KB
502 KB PNG
>>5169097
I mean, you sure showed how deadly Phobos combat can be
For the Wretch
>>
>Ok just to be safe. I'll archive this thread and start a second one where we will continue combat.
>>
Advice. When making new thread it's a good idea to post link to previous archived thread and main page of the quest archive.
>>
for new thread

>>5169238



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.