Pharah

Fareeha was completely disoriented when she awoke. Her mind was hazy, but she knew she had slept very well. She pushed herself up in the unfamiliar bed and rubbed her eyes, the buzzing in the back of her head already dissipating. After another moment or two, the Egyptian looked about the dimly lit room and noted Angela Ziegler completely angelic in her own bed. The cover Fareeha took it upon herself to comfort the woman with barely moved from the night before. For the doctor to still be sleeping, she must've been exhausted, and that was surely saying something considering Angela's inability to relax at times, it seemed.

Fareeha stretched, gave Angela one lingering glance that lasted longer than she thought it would, and then stealthily slid out of her bed, slipping through the room's door to the hallway. She had been to enough inns to know that breakfast and coffee would be served only for a certain amount of time, and considering it was just past eight in the morning already, Fareeha also knew she needed to make haste, since her and Angela's departure would be within the hour. It was likely they wouldn't have time to shop for some clothes for the poor doctor, and while that bothered Fareeha, Angela likely hadn't had such a good rest in quite some time. For her health, perhaps this was for the best.

Fareeha's cellphone beeped, the default sound for her notifications, and she checked the e-mail that followed. As if responding to her concerns directly, it was from the primary pilot, who went by "Johnny" in his message. It was a laughably generic alias.

"Our new bird is taking longer than anticipated to prep. Recalibrated meeting time is at 1300 hours. Take a look around the area, but try to keep a relatively low profile. Later!"

Fareeha breathed a sigh of relief, and responded with a defined "affirmative", reaching the small dining area and beginning to prep her and Angela's coffee. While the blend brewed, she compiled a plate of fruit consisting of grapes, strawberries, and oranges, and then put together another one of various breads, such as a bagel, cinnamon roll, and toast with a side of jam. She wasn't sure what Angela liked, so she attempted to obtain a fair variety for her. There was only an elderly couple enjoying a quiet breakfast together in the nearby sitting area, but Fareeha still knew she must've given off a rather gluttonous impression.

"…Government officials are still investigating Tekhartha Mondatta's horribly unfortunate assassination. There are few leads, with only one of the critically injured security officers stating that he was assaulted by what appeared to be a blur of black and blue. He claims it was nearly impossible to make out his assailant, but the consensus is that the terrorist was acting on their own, making it even more difficult to pinpoint their origin. Whispers of the crime organization known as "Talon" continue to persist, and considering the amount of skill analysts claim the shot must've taken in order to land in such a minute, critical area upon Mondatta, there is notable unrest within the world as the conclusion that a criminal organization houses such talent at their disposal is reached. After a short break, the weather will be next."

The newest member of Overwatch gave pause, taking in the pictures and information sliding across the television. The elderly couple simply shook their heads collectively, saying something somewhat indistinct to one another.

Fareeha Amari knew of Tekhartha Mondatta. How couldn't she? He was known all over the world for revolutionizing the way omnics could and should be perceived. Although Fareeha had some reservation when it came to the mechanical entities, she couldn't deny there was more to the machines than one may first conclude. What truly concerned the agent was Talon's involvement and, more vexingly, the inclusion of the sniper involved. Although the details surrounding Ana Amari's death were scarce, Fareeha had managed to determine – through her own connections in the army – that she had been shot, also potentially by a Talon sniper. Of course, Talon likely had more than enough assassins talented at such things, but for a genius-level markswoman herself to be downed, there were very few individuals capable of beating Ana Amari, from what Fareeha understood, no matter what bitterness rested in her heart. Thus, Mondatta's death picked at a scab in Fareeha's mind that she couldn't resist itching.

However, that could wait. Once Overwatch's base in Gibraltar was reached, Fareeha might get some answers then. At the moment, Angela Ziegler's comfort came first. She had been through an ordeal, and Fareeha was taking it upon herself to look after the other woman. Two individuals didn't survive such a scenario without becoming just a little closer, even though Mercy kept her true considerations and feelings quite close, hiding her complex thoughts behind a motherly and calming – if a little sad – smile.

Fareeha managed, through something of a juggling act, to get back into her room, and was slightly relieved to find Angela was up, although that occurrence must've been seconds prior, for her eyes were still practically closed, and she hadn't done anything about the fact her borrowed shirt was slipping even further down her arm, creating quite the tantalizing image in the form of her natural cleavage. Fareeha blinked and turned her gaze, wondering why she was so drawn to the other woman's form in general once again. She chalked it up to admiration and envy. Angela was everything Fareeha wanted to be as a previous Overwatch agent and, more accurately, a hero.

'Good morning, Dr. Ziegler.' Fareeha managed, giving Angela time to adjust to her surroundings.

'Good morning, Ms. Amari.' The doctor sighed, rubbing her forehead.

'Sorry. Angela.'

'That's better.' Angela grinned, her eyes somehow twinkling despite the lack of much lighting besides that which was seeping through the drawn curtains.

'How did you sleep?' Fareeha went on, placing the food and drinks on one of the bedside tables.

'I managed. Admittedly, it was a better rest than I've known for some time, although the dreams were erratic and nightmarish on occasion. It's to be expected. Not even I can fully control my subconscious quite yet.'

'I see…'

Angela shuffled over to the food and steaming coffee, still not having fixed her shirt.

'You brought us something to eat and drink? You're too kind, Fareeha.' The woman beamed, almost child-like.

'I wasn't sure what you preferred, so, I brought a little bit of everything.'

'How considerate. I am not overly picky, to be honest. Doing what I do, you can't truly afford to be.'

'That makes sense.'

Angela drank a sip of her coffee, and then added a splash of milk and sugar. She also took a bite of a strawberry, the juices speckling her lips a slight tinge of red. Fareeha found herself watching again, her cursed eyes lingering about no matter how much she attempted to force them away from the only spot in the room they shouldn't be observing so heavily.

As if responding to the gaze, Angela finally adjusted her top a bit, kindly not calling Fareeha out as the Egyptian flinched internally.

'Are we not leaving yet? Our pilots mentioned a departure at dawn, did they not?'

'Y-yes. At 1300 hours we'll be on our way. There were complications with our transfer, by the sounds of things.'

'As there always is.' Angela shrugged bemusedly. 'That gives me a chance to perhaps purchase a new outfit for the time being, I suppose. You're somewhat broad, aren't you? I am not accustomed to feeling so exposed, and you were struggling with telling me about my compromised state, correct?'

'For the most part…' Fareeha struggled to lie. 'But yes, I was assuming we could help better equip you for the rest of the trip. You were forced to leave everything, and that must be trying.'

'Materialistic value means little to me. Functionality and purpose are far more alluring.'

'That doesn't surprise me, now that I have learned more about you.'

'Some perceive me as vain, I'll have you know.' Angela continued to consume her food slowly, yet consistently. It filled Fareeha with a bizarre sense of fulfillment, knowing she was the one to have brought the breakfast to her.

'Vain?'

'Well, I'm thirty-seven, but I look barely older than twenty. My peers and rivals felt the need to condemn me in the past due to this fact. However, I was simply using nanomachines to preserve my body longer to further my research and give me more opportunity to help people around the world.'

'Would implanting such technology in others help further your cause?'

'I'm glad you asked that, Fareeha.' Angela smiled playfully, and it made Fareeha's chest tight. 'Yes and no. The amount of conditioning, not to mention the cost, is exponential. Additionally, I am a living experiment for the longevity of such technology. Who knows what form of negative impact such tampering will ultimately have on my body? As it is…'

Angela's voice trailed off, and she took a bite of her croissant.

'As it is…?' Fareeha probed after enough time had passed.

'Never mind. I apologize for rudely dismissing my thought pattern, but I shouldn't discuss it now.'

Fareeha wanted nothing more than to push for more information, but she respected Angela's privacy. They weren't close enough to step over that line quite yet. Once they reached Overwatch Gibraltar, perhaps they wouldn't see one another much at all. The thought bothered Fareeha more than she desired it to.

'I understand.' Fareeha submitted.

'Thank-you.' Angela smiled again, and that was enough for Fareeha to not regret her decision. 'Now, as much as I'd love to traverse Ilios wearing something so frivolous, would you be so kind as to lend me, perhaps, one more set of clothing, Fareeha?'

Both women were just about done eating by the time Fareeha started digging through her suitcase for Angela. Fareeha herself was something of a minimalist, so, she didn't actually have much to spare. Nonetheless, she found a maroon sweater and simple black pair of tighter-fit pants that seemed sufficient. As expected, the vision of Mercy dressed in (slightly too large) clothes that belonged to Fareeha gave the Egyptian a strange sense of satisfaction.

'The phrase "boyfriend's shirt" comes to mind.' Angela laughed, observing herself in the mirror from various angles. She looked adorable, and what she said only served to push Fareeha into more modes of discomfort.

'Have you ever done such a thing, Fareeha? I imagine you would require a rather larger man to adequately pull off such a look. Someone like Reinhardt?'

'P-perhaps.'

'Is your current significant other capable of providing you with this sensation?'

Fareeha almost bit her tongue answering.

'I am not currently involved in anything romantic.'

'Ah.' Angela giggled a little. 'We are both women married to our work, then. It is a small wonder I feel a level of comradery with you. How pleasant. We're a rare breed, some might say.'

Fareeha didn't know how to respond. She was happy Angela was seemingly coping with the events from the day before fairly well, but she was also annoyed that the doctor held such a shield about herself emotionally. What was she actually thinking and feeling? Why was Fareeha so curious to the point that she felt ill?

'I've…been on a few dates somewhat recently, and had relationships in the past, but they didn't lead to anything substantial.' Fareeha found herself saying, unclear with her reasoning for expounding upon the subject.

'My romantic endeavours from the rather distant past at this point had similar conclusions. I don't really bother anymore. Men are intimidated by me, for the most part, and it makes for strained conversation on both ends no matter what the circumstance. It's hard for me to shut off the "doctor" side of my personality, and I understand that contributes to my inability to find a sound mate. The fact I don't feel the need to be positively appraised by another individual on a regular basis nulls a sense of desperation as well. Overall, at thirty-seven, romance is quite low on the list of priorities.'

Fareeha observed Angela shrug, a knot forming in the younger woman's throat. Why was this conversation causing her such anxiety? Did she feel sorry for Dr. Ziegler? Did she simply not know how to reply? Fareeha opened her mouth, feeling the dryness of it suddenly.

'That…is quite the loss to men everywhere, one could say.' Fareeha flinched back at her own words, and she hoped Angela couldn't sense the increase in her own blood pressure. What on earth was she even saying?

'Oh? Another rather complimentary comment from Ms. Amari? Best be careful, for I may believe you to be interested in me given enough of such reinforcement.'

'M-me!?' Fareeha's eyes widened, her brain buzzing. 'No. That…that's not…'

Angela giggled, touching Fareeha's shoulder.

'I'm teasing you, Fareeha. I must admit, you are quite amusing, and I'm sorry for drawing humour at your expense. I'm also sorry if my insinuation insulted you or made you uncomfortable.'

'…I'm not upset.' Fareeha could only say, trying to meet Angela's clear eyes. 'I was just…surprised.'

'Well, you seem like the slightly uptight type, so, I should've known better.'

'No. Well, perhaps, but…' Fareeha bit at her lip, and then met Angela's gaze finally. 'If it helps make you feel even a little better, please tease me all you like.'

A beat, and then Angela was giggling; truly laughing. She held her stomach, covering her mouth, her eyes smiling brightly. Fareeha grinned, knowing she had somehow calmed the legendary hero known as Mercy just a bit.

"Our current promotion is buy three of any item and get the fourth free!"

"This just came in, and I assure you I only have a limited quantity. Your timing is perfect."

"A white dress for the pretty lady? You would charm everyone with such an outfit!"

"Buy one get the second half off!"

"Spend 200 euros and get a 20 euro gift card!"

"Everything is 10% off!"

"If you need anything, just let any of our staff member know."

"Ladies! Ladies! Over here!"

'I normally have the patience for such things, but I'm not even interested in staying in many of these shops.' Angela took a seat on a small bench near a fountain. This part of Ilios was certainly a tourist attraction, and many of the residential businesses made sure the majority of vacationers knew it. It was a little overwhelming, and Fareeha was just happy she wasn't the only one that felt this way.

'Once we arrive at our destination there might not be another opportunity to find any suitable clothing, right?'

'It's possible; don't worry. We're not closed off from the world. Honestly, this sweater and the pants you have provided me might be sufficient, if you wouldn't mind my wearing of them until we make arrival. Perhaps one more shirt and a pair of bottoms would be ideal. Oh…' Angela paused, shaking her head and smirking.

'What is it?'

'Well, not even I enjoy my current lack of…undergarments.'

Fareeha's cheeks flared. She completely forgot. So, right now, Angela wasn't…! In her clothes…

'Considering I am the one doing without, I find it curious that you're so flustered. Heheh!'

'I am just…sympathetic.'

'That I do believe, from what I know of you. I suppose I should remedy this particular predicament. Would you like to stay here or join me? I shouldn't be long.'

'I will accompany you.' Fareeha felt it the most natural course of action, and soon enough, the two women were making their way into a little store that specialized in such things. Fareeha quite rarely invested much time or money into such a frivolity, considering her occupation, and the sheer scope of even a store like this was overwhelming when one thought about its primary purpose. Pastel colours were everywhere, with miniature, holographic images projecting the various articles that could be worn on a perfectly proportioned, idealized body of the female shape. Fareeha watched as the images filtered through an array of styles, her dark, wide eyes taking in the pictures with curiosity. She imagined Angela's face and body instead of the dolls before her, and the Egyptian ripped her eyes away, not sure where to look anymore.

'This city is more advanced than I anticipated. They're implementing some of the latest advertising technology. How exciting!' Angela had already procured a few ensembles, by the looks of things, but Fareeha disallowed herself from making more foolhardy observations. She tried to find something interesting to keep herself occupied, but her current situation made that somewhat impossible as well.

'Hmm…I suppose this will do for now. I don't care for anything overly extravagant.'

'Right…'

'Do you need anything?' Angela asked, going to the counter without even bothering to try something on. She either knew her measurements excessively well, or she just didn't care that much.

'I'm fine.'

'Oh? I saw a black pair that made me think of you in that corner. Is that odd?' Angela turned to pay, and Fareeha was thankful for it, because she knew her face was burning. It was just admiration. It was simply being star-struck. It would all change by the end of the day. There was no point imagining anything other than being acquaintances was transpiring. Mercy was known for her selflessness and kindness. Fareeha was just another patient. Her emotions were behaving erratically because of the way her life had been so completely flipped within such a short period of time. That's all any of this was.

'Fareeha?' Angela's voice cut into the other girl's mind, and she flinched back into the present.

'Yes?'

'I don't have any money.'

'I owe you one, Fareeha. How nearsighted of me. When one is used to having some magical method of paying at all times it is quite unsettling when a new reality takes the old's place. I will pay you back.'

'You do not have to.' Fareeha softly. So, even the great Mercy had a slightly clumsy side. 'It was my fault as well for not anticipating the scenario. You have so much on your mind as it is, the least I can do is continue to support you.'

'Ah…' Angela almost sighed, her tone becoming distant. 'I am not quite accustomed to being the one supported. Are you attempting to take my role?'

Fareeha smiled, shrugging.

'Perhaps.'

'Well, regardless, I do appreciate your help today. You have made what could've been a difficult time much more bearable.'

'Good.'

A pause, with the pleasant sun and gab of other tourists and local residents circulating about in an illusion of perfect peace. There was, curiously, a lack of anything omnic, but Fareeha payed the detail no heed.

'Now, might I ask one more favor?'

'Anything.' Fareeha blurted, retracting her enthusiasm instantly. 'Er…Yes. Of course.'

'Heheh. This outing has left me a little parched. Would you mind stopping to get a drink? Something fruity sounds pleasing.' Angela was already proceeding to a snack stand, the rustic nature of the establishment immediately charming. It was strange, for Angela was such a prestigious individual, yet she was more than satisfied with street vendors. She ordered her shake with precision, treating the cashier and mixer with the utmost of courtesy and respect. It was just her nature. Everyone was equal in her eyes. Nobody stood above another. Fareeha was one of the rest. She knew this.

Fareeha and Angela sat down with their refreshments, and checking the time, Fareeha knew they couldn't relax for too much longer.

'I know we have but half an hour.' Angela confirmed, the sound of her voice serious. 'Just…let me have a moment longer like this.' She pursed her lovely lips about her straw and sucked up the red-tinged concoction until the stream disappeared into her mouth. Fareeha went with more of a grape flavour, but she was too distracted, yet again, to know what it tasted like yet.

'It's fine.'

'But you're a stickler for punctuation and rules, yes?'

'…A little.' Fareeha relented, knowing it was pointless to lie.

The breeze was nice. The smell of the ocean was nice. The view…was nice. Fareeha rarely took the time to relax, but this could've been worse.

'Can I admit something?' Angela started again, looking just a little less confident.

'Please.'

'Well, firstly, thank-you for the drink. I owe you yet again.'

'It's really nothing.'

'Nonetheless…' Angela smirked, but her glorious smile faded. 'In any case, I have to say…I have my reservations about rejoining the fight.'

Fareeha nodded slowly, finally sipping her drink simply for something to do.

'It is an admirable role to fulfill, if used for the correct purposes, but I did things I am not proud of when fighting last time. With very human influences involved now, I fear I will be presented with an ultimatum in relation to my personal vows. I don't want to make such decisions again. I agonize over them to this day.'

'I…can somewhat understand.'

'Can you?'

'A little, although you are a much better person than I.'

'Debatable.' Angela snickered melancholically. 'However, I understand it is an inevitable procedure, and I will do my part on a grander scale for the time being. I just hope that history does not repeat itself.'

'Winston seems capable.'

'He is.' Angela nodded. 'He is. His judgement of you was quite sound, from what I can determine. If our group is filled with individuals like yourself, I have little to fear. Alas, that is the epitome of wishful thinking.'

Fareeha blinked, hiding her embarrassment behind her drink.

'If…if you need someone to talk to during our stay…er…I am available.' Fareeha felt herself standing before a cliff, knowing it was a silly thing to say. But then a warm hand touched her own, and she glanced up to find Angela's powerful gaze meeting hers.

'That may very well be a necessity on occasion. Who knows?'

It was ambiguous and kind, so what more could Fareeha expect?

Angela visibly seemed to shake off the brief moment of vulnerability and reequipped her mask of undaunting prowess.

'Either way,' Angela's voice rang cheerfully to any who heard only her words. 'You have already proven a better date than any I've had in the past, so, there's that, at the very least.'

'Really?' Fareeha raised a brow, trying to match Angela's pace even a little. 'Then I am afraid you have had terrible luck.'

Angela laughed, and the fact she didn't disagree immediately eased Fareeha's chest achingly.

'I wouldn't say that.' Angela giggled as she finished her shake. 'You just happen to be an agreeable person, as far as I am concerned.'

And Fareeha wished their departure would be delayed again.