Singularity Paradox
II. Reformat
From that massive whiteout, it soon shifted and faded. A mass of colors began to manifest as a mirage. At this moment, the area before him appeared like a glimpse of the vast sky trapped in an endless dusk with its shades of blue and indigo. The myriad of lines and streams of code flew past like playful wisps. At the end of the horizon was a massive ball of light akin to a setting star.
"Fear not," the voice spoke in a gentle whisper. It had a warm and calming tone to it. Fatherly, almost.
Before him stood a brilliant figure. It was that of an old man garbed in a white coat. The flowing beard and the white hair seemed rather familiar to him. With a smile, he reached out to him, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"You still have a lot to do. For now, rest as much as you can and focus on regaining your strength."
He wanted to speak. A flood of questions came to him but not a single word left his lips. The old man spoke once more.
"There is a war that you have to fight in. I hope this is the last time you fight, X."
"F-Father..." the lad stammered, struggling to keep his resolve.
"Go. It is time for you to wake up along with the others," the elderly figure assured as the surrounding area was soon filled with a flash of light, "We will meet again, my son."
From that point on, the area was consumed again with blinding light.
Out of the blurred colors clouding his vision, the first thing that came into focus was the ceiling. The white walls and the glow of the light fixtures gave the impression of a sterilized environment. Not knowing what exactly was going on, the first thought that came to mind was to look around. He recognized the room, giving him an idea of where he is at this point.
The Infirmary. I'm back in HQ? He thought to himself as he tried to remember what happened.
In his attempts of recalling what occurred during the mission, he began to look down. He saw his body laid flat while covered by the sheets. It looked rather strange to him, expecting that his body should be bulkier in appearance. What caught his attention more was with the sight of his left arm. It was not the usual blue and cyan plating that he knew too well. This one appeared to be far slenderer, bearing the same tone and appearance of the humans he protected. It dawned on him.
He now has the same body as that of a regular human.
"I see you're awake now, X."
The voice had the lad turn his gaze towards the door. Entering the room was a human male, clad in a purple shirt and a pair of gray trousers. The whole apparel was topped with a white longcoat, one used by doctors and physicians. The man's short black hair had gray streaks slicked back, giving a neater appearance. There was something about the man that left the lad puzzled.
"I suppose you don't recognize me in this form," the man remarked with a nonchalant tone, "It is I, Gate."
By instinct, Gate raised his hand to motion the lad to be still. He anticipated the sudden reaction.
"Wait, do not worry. I am here to help," he explained, "I was asked by the good Doctor to help you. He gave me the details on how to save everyone in the Hunter Base after that sudden shockwave. So, with a few other volunteers, I was able to save at least 50% of the personnel."
X listened to Gate's explanation. He still seemed wary but right now, he was thankful for the aid given. Something still bothered him about the situation.
"How bad was it? The damage inflicted to us?" X asked with hesitation lingering in his voice.
"Zero and that young one, Axl...the three of you were badly damaged. It was around 75-80%." the scientist reported as he stood by the bedside, "We had to take measures and if not for Dr. Light, we wouldn't be able to prepare the bodies you have now. It's not as well-armed as your previous ones. But it should work out just as fine."
Gate brought out the data tablet that he had with him. With a few taps, he brought out the data file which bore the full schematics of X's body.
"As you can see, your body has a more human likeness compared to your old one," Gate explained as he handed the tablet to X, "When compared to a human, your body is still stronger. However, it is also a bit fragile as it doesn't have the same armor and armaments as your old combat body. Don't worry, I'm still working with the R&D Division on getting you combat ready."
"Thank you, Gate." A smile formed upon his lips as he watched the man in the white coat head for the door.
"If you're feeling any better, you can try to walk around," Gate mentioned as he was about to open the ward door, "But before you do that, you might want to change out of that hospital gown and get some proper clothes. There is a set that you can use on the dresser over there."
With the scientist now out of the room, X remained as he pondered about what transpired. The current situation remained as a shock to him. A lot was still left in the air, uncertain of the outcome. He did not know what became of the inhabitants of Abel City. Nor did he find out about the fate of those out in the field with him, whether they came from the Maverick Hunters or the Repliforce. He felt anxious, worried about what befell them.
The thought dwelt upon Alia and her well-being. How did the Navigators fare after that pulse? As much as he wanted to know the fates of his other companions, the one regarding Alia had him worried. The growing mass of queries grew in magnitude, clouding the faith that they would be alright. He knew he cannot stay in bed any longer.
Getting off from the hospital bed, he went for the dresser and saw the set of clothes ready for him. A blue t-shirt folded on top of a pair of darkwash jeans. On the hanger was a navy-colored jacket, with its length being similar to a longcoat. Without hesitation, he changed out of his hospital gown and geared up.
Command Room, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 1900 hrs.
"Palette, status report," the gruff voice requested for an update as he stared at the main monitor. Right now, it flashed the floor plan of the Maverick Hunters HQ and the various sections on it. In the other various windows were direct video feeds of said sections in question.
"Power supply normalizing. All facilities now running at optimum levels," the young blonde-haired Navigator responded as she continued checking on her terminal.
"Layer, any new information on that strange Maverick that X fought?" the gruff voice went on once more as he sat on his chair.
"Nothing new," the purple-haired Navigator answered as sorted through the data she gathered on her terminal, "We will need more than what we currently have on this enemy."
"Alia, anything on the other Hunters?"
"Conversion is at 75%," the other blonde-haired Navigator answered, "Among our ace hunters, they happen to be stable but still undergoing calibration. It would take a good 12 hours before they can become combat ready."
Keeping his composure, he remained silent as he leaned back on his seat. Hours prior to the current status report, the whole Hunter HQ fell into an evident crisis. With the edge of his hat obscuring his eyes, he began to deliberate on the situation at hand.
"We lost half of our forces after that cataclysm," the commander thought aloud while keeping his voice to himself, "We won't be able to withstand another attack if that happens."
Hallways, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 1900 hrs.
While walking around, X noticed the changes among the personnel. Not only did he notice the fewer numbers, but he also noted how they now appear to be just like him. They all bore a closer likeness to humans in general. Despite which, he noted their attempts in fulfilling their duties.
"Gate was right," the Hunter remarked with his observation, "If everyone is in this state, then it would take a while for them to adjust. We would be caught flat-footed if they don't pull themselves together."
"Never thought I would see you like that, X."
The voice caught X's attention; noting how it belonged to someone he knows well. As he turned around, the first thing he noticed was the long blonde hair tied in a ponytail. Instead of the armor he would easily recognize, in its place was a red jacket with a black shirt underneath. He also wore a pair of dark jeans and some boots.
"Zero," the azure Hunter smiled with his greeting, "Good to see you alive and well. Getting the hang of this new form yet?"
"It's still a shock for me but I'm coping just fine," Zero replied as he raised his right hand for a bit, clenching it then letting it loose, "Though I will need to do some training exercises to get full control over my body. That reminds me, I never thought you'd have brown hair under that helmet."
"Hey, I never thought I'd have that at all," X answered with a chuckle. It was then that he wondered about the other Hunters, "By the way, how is Axl?"
"He's still under observation. He hasn't woken up after that explosion. Although they managed to salvage him and had him use the same type of body as we do now." Zero explained with a dry tone. His countenance holding a grim expression.
"Is he still under observation?" X asked.
He was only met by an affirmative nod. This gave X an idea on what was going on.
"Looks like they still want to see how this whole situation affects Axl," X rubs his chin in thought.
"That kid can't catch a break," Zero remarked as he slipped his hands into his pockets, "Then again, so do we. We better go to the Command Room and check on the others."
"Agreed," X started walking as the pair made their way to the Command Room.
Command Room, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 1905 hrs.
The doors hissed open as the two Hunters entered the Command Room. At that moment, various personnel focused on monitoring the data on their terminals. Flashing on the main screen was the full map of the Maverick Hunter HQ, with various sections of the facility displayed in different windows. One notable thing shown on the main display was the circular barrier covering the perimeter. X gazed at the main monitor, interpreting as much as he can with the information shown at that moment.
"An energy field around the perimeter…" X trailed off in a whisper as he made his speculations, "Is it for protection or for isolation?"
"Looks like you noticed it too, X," the voice remarked within earshot. Hearing this, X and Zero turned and saw the commander standing nearby.
"Commander Signas," the two Hunters stood in attention and gave their salute.
True to how his armored version looked like, he sported the same appearance with his human form. Although his clothing reflected his position, wearing a uniform befitting of a commander. It also came with a matching hat. The acknowledgment also had the rest of the Navigators stop briefly as they shifted their gaze towards the two Hunters present.
"At ease," Signas motioned to the pair, to which the two Hunters complied, "Glad to see you are in good shape. How are you two feeling?"
With a gruff tone, Zero tried to move his fingers a bit before balling them into a fist, "It feels different. I tried some exercises before coming here to get used to it. It's easy to move but I feel rather naked."
"It must be due to not having the usual armor plating on," X noted as he rubbed his chin, "Apparently, Gate explained to me the current situation."
"Hold on," Zero interrupted, "How did Gate got in here? Wasn't he out of commission after the Nightmare Incident?"
"I salvaged his body after the whole ordeal, Zero," X answered in a nonchalant manner, "I did bring him here since he was Alia's friend. But I didn't hear of what happened to him ever since."
"Signas, you have some explaining to do." Zero crossed his arms as the two Hunters looked at their Commander.
"Don't worry, I was getting to that," Signas replied as he sauntered to the nearest Navigator, "Have Alia, Layer, and Palette sent to the meeting room."
"Yes, Sir," the red-haired Navigator answered as she sent the message through her terminal.
At that moment, Signas walked off as he motioned X and Zero to follow him to the meeting room. Without a word, the two Hunters followed with hopes of questions being answered immediately.
Meeting Room, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 1910 hrs.
It took a few minutes for everyone needed to be present. On his usual seat at the head of the table was Signas, hands clasped together in attention as they rest on the table. Seated on his right side was X and Zero. Both Hunters sat still as they waited for the meeting to commence.
On the left side were the three Navigators. Palette read through the information displayed on her eyepiece while she continues to access the other details on her handheld device. Her outfit bore vibrant shades of green on her hooded jacket and her skirt. While the shirt and leggings underneath bore a darker shade of green, leaving her white necktie accent the look. She still bore the same twin-tail hairstyle.
Beside her was Layer, trying to keep her composure as much as possible. The fringes of her hair covered her eyes, making it rather helpful for her to avert her gaze. After all, she was seated in an area where Zero was right across the table. The blues and purples on her vest and slacks stood out as accents to her outfit. The white shirt beneath her vest brought out the her womanly elegance, something that the rest of her uniform provided.
In hopes of shifting her thoughts to something else, she began reviewing the information recorded on her data tablet. Though she could feel Palette's elbow nudging at her in a teasing manner. Beside Layer was the Senior Navigator herself. She didn't seem different due to how she wore her hair down. The thing that made Alia looked different was her outfit, which now comprised of a white blouse topped with a coral and white jacket. Her dark navy pleated skirt matched the black leggings that she wore beneath it. Her fingers showed her adept control as she continued to input data on her keyboard.
"It seems like everyone's here," Signas stated after clearing his throat, causing everyone in the room to pay attention, "Let us begin with the meeting."
"First, let us look at the situation we have before us. As of 1500 hrs, a scramble order was issued to the Maverick hunters to intercept and neutralize a Carrier-Type Mechaniloid on its way to Abel City. The endeavor was successful as of 1530 hrs. However, as of 1535 hrs, a massive energy spike was detected from the Mechaniloid as it exploded. It took out the Mechaniloid and a majority of the forces deployed at the outskirts of Abel City."
As Signas recounted the details, he noticed how all of those seated wore grim expressions on the matter. X appeared to be shocked at the revelation. Meanwhile, Zero remained quiet as he listened intently. The Commander continued with the report.
"Though from the looks of it, the explosion was just the beginning. Alia, if you please?"
With a nod, Alia pressed a couple of keys on her keyboard as the holographic monitor at the center of the meeting room began to produce various images and windows. The one in focus at this point was the framework and prints of various humanoid-type Reploids. It as at this point that she took over.
"Apparently, the explosion caused a particular virus strain to be released. With what we managed to analyze, the virus utilized nanomachines to affect machinery down to the molecular level."
As Alia made her explanation, the hologram began to focus on the various zones in the projected diagram. In one of the windows, the image of the strange nanomachines came into focus.
"This meant that the infection it causes is two-fold. The first front that it targets is the programming, with which the virus corrupts and causes the Reploid to turn Maverick. This tends to affect older generation Reploids and the current generation to a degree. With a stronger virus protection, this can be avoided. Although this is where the other part of the infection kicks in."
In time with that explanation, the diagram simulates the nanomachines in action. The projected image shows how these small components operated. What they all noticed is how it began to scramble and dismantle each mechanical part. The shocked look on everyone's faces, save for Zero and Signas, was enough to indicate the amount of danger and devastation this posed. Even Alia, the presenter at this point, was not spared with her letting loose a small gasp.
"Yes, the nanomachines take on the other front as it targets the hardware. They begin to dismantle and corrode as much as it can to ensure it either takes over or destroys the victim completely. While the cases vary, the devastation it dealt was extensive as the Maverick Hunters lost half of its active forces. You may have heard that from the other Hunters."
"Yes, I have," X replied with a worried look on his face, "I never knew this strain would be this lethal. To think I had a hand in all of this."
Seeing how X's dejection also caused Alia to feel this pang of sadness. She tried to piece together her thoughts to help comfort the Hunter yet there was not a single word that comes to form.
"We were all caught unaware, X," Signas spoke with understanding, "You don't need to bear the guilt alone. That is the reason why we are gathered here, to find a solution to this madness."
"Unfortunately, the virus is not the only problem we have here," Layer added as she brings up the window detailing their current manpower, "The preventive step taken was to utilize the unarmored mode, foregoing the combat forms that each of our field operatives and support personnel have. That also includes us, as you would notice."
"On top of this, the shockwave caused us to erect a Protection Field around the whole Hunter HQ," Palette continued with the explanation as she brought the image of the Maverick Hunters HQ with a diagram of the barrier being projected, "It was able to prevent further damage to all of us, but it essentially left us isolated from the outside world. From the information that we managed to gather, it was totally covered by the dense smoke and debris. No doubt that the nanomachines would also be present in them, too."
The whole revelation made Palette jittery as she explained each detail, "Then there's also unstable energy readings around, making it hard to send and receive transmissions from the other Repliforce and Hunter Bases."
"So, we're basically marooned from all possible points," Zero growled with this realization, "Not to mention being unarmed and forced to be in this pathetic state. Is there anything else we should know about this?"
"There is more, good friends," a familiar voice caught the attention of everyone in the meeting room as they turned towards the door. X and Alia noted this familiar figure that entered as he took a seat beside X and Zero.
"Gate, what brings you here?" Alia asked with a slight hint of surprise.
"Allow me to explain that since that is the second agenda that we will discuss tonight," Signas replied, "I'll start with introductions. This here is Gate, a brilliant scientist and Reploid Engineer. He will be working with us as part of the Research and Development Team. Some of the veteran Hunters would know him well and would attest of this brilliance."
Gate nods as he raised his hand tentatively, "Before we begin, I need to share this as a sign that you can trust me. If you don't mind, that is."
For a moment, the room was in a state of silence. While brief, X paid attention to what was about to be shared. He was mindful of the reactions from Alia and Zero. He did notice that Signas was also observant while keeping his calm and calculating exterior, being the Commander and Director of the whole organization. He did note how Gate took a glance at everyone in the room before he spoke.
"Well, to start, I will tell you that I have caused a lot of grievances to the Hunters and to the whole of humanity. To those who do not know of me, I was the cause of the Nightmare Incident. Shortly after the Eurasia Colony Crisis, I found Zero's DNA data in hopes of using it to help humanity. My hubris caught up with me and it ended up with being an unwitting pawn to Sigma and his machinations. I know my crimes still lay heavy upon me, thus I have no objections to what the Hunters will do to me."
X noticed that Gate's explanation started with remorse. This startled Alia to a degree, and much more with Zero as he noted how he was the cause of the problem in some degree. Gate continued with his statement.
"To that end, I chose to aid the Hunters as part of the Research and Development Team. With this crisis, we sprung into action in finding a solution or countermeasure to this new virus. We managed to get the help of a few others, including Dr. Doppler and Dr. Ciel. Even the illustrious Dr. Light gave us a hand."
"Hold on," X interrupted as he looked at Gate with an incredulous expression, "Say that again."
"Ah, yes," the scientist nodded as he began to elaborate, "Dr. Doppler was alive after the Doppler Town incident. If it were not for you and Zero, he would end up dead. Dr. Ciel is a human prodigy who joined us recently. Her works have been instrumental in developing newer Reploid models as well as aiding in the research pertaining to Cyberspace."
"Yes, that's good," X sounded a bit dismissive, "But the one after that."
"Dr. Light," Gate replied with nonchalance, "And I mean Dr. Thomas Light. More appropriately, your Creator and Father, X."
The room fell silent once more as they all stared at Gate, trying to process the revelations. For X, these bits of information began to make sense as the dream that he had came to mind. The strange space with the fatherly figure in white that manifested before him, encouraging him to keep going. The times when he took too much damage and somehow returned to HQ, fully repaired. It was coming together.
"Of course," X rubbed his chin with a pensive thought, "I wouldn't be here if it were not for him. So, did he come up with the plan to use these bodies to counter the infection?"
"Correct," Gate confirmed, "It was Dr. Light's idea. Dr. Ciel pitched in with how to execute the plans while Dr. Doppler and I assisted with the reconstruction and conversion. We should be able to complete the conversion within 12 hours or so."
"That's a small victory," Palette chirped with a smile.
"That still leaves us with this other problem," Zero remarked with a dry tone, "How will we fight the Mavericks at this state?"
"I think this situation is a Godsend," Signas answered, "For one, the situation outside is still in chaos. Though this might be the calm before the storm, we have enough time to prepare, reorient, and reorganize. Gate, what is our estimated time for rearming our best Hunters?"
"In terms of rearming X and Zero, close to six hours," Gate replied after checking his datapad, "Dr. Ciel is working on that particular solution as we speak."
"Good. Palette, I need you to work with the other Navigators in conducting a thorough search. We need to know if there are any survivors and if we can still find a way to save them and salvage the zones they are in."
Palette gave an affirmative nod to Signas's orders.
"As for who to send," Signas paused as he looked at X and Zero, "We are currently understaffed. I would normally send you two but that would leave us handicapped."
"I'll take this mission on," X gave a prompt reply, "Let me know when you need me to sortie."
"Very well. Zero will be on reserve to ensure that we have a Hunter ready to assist whenever possible. This also covers our defensive options."
By then, the Commander realized another problem. Due to how the Hunters have operated as of late, they were working in teams. The sudden drop of available Hunters ended up as a hurdle.
"You will still need a companion to sortie with," Signas commented.
"Take me with you, X."
At that point, the azure Hunter was taken aback by Alia's decision. The clarity in her words bore certainty in them; more evident with the look of determination in her face. This was the partner that continued to support X through all the battles and scramble orders issued to him. The same one that delivered her insights and tactical suggestions as he went through these arduous battles. He felt relieved that she stood out willing. But at that same time, he felt worried about her well-being.
"Are you sure about this, Alia?" Layer asked with concern.
"Yes, I am," Alia answered without wavering, "We did have some basic combat training and weapons as a requirement in joining the Hunters. I also put some hours in those simulations and target range practice, so I can say I am proficient with the buster."
"This might not be the usual scenario that rookie Hunters can take on," Zero added. He turned his gaze towards X, hoping that he would also speak out.
"It's alright, Alia. I can hand-"
"X, I can't let you do this alone." Alia's tone showed how adamant she was. Her expression softened for a bit, "This is a time when we cannot sit back idly. Besides, I am confident that our new batch of Navigators can do well. I can be helpful in other ways too, mind you."
Signas and Gate could only smile at this point. Gate found this amusing, noting how Alia still had that stubbornness. As for Signas, her determination may have opened up new possibilities for her position.
"Well, I suppose that settles it," the Commander spoke with authority, "Alia, you will join X as part of his squad. I assume you know the risks that comes with being on the field, especially in this particular situation. Everyone, get to your stations and make the necessary preparations. Be on standby for possible scramble orders. This meeting is now adjourned."
Observation Deck, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 2200 hrs.
With the meeting long done, everyone has gone back to their respective departments to prepare. Zero went off to the training room to practice and reorient himself. Layer and Palette resumed their duties in the Command Room as they went on with their duties as Navigators, but this time with the added task of leading the other Navigators in monitoring the current status that everyone is in. Gate went back to the R&D Lab to work with the rest of the department.
Due to this situation, the Observation Deck seemed to be a great spot in case one desires to be alone, especially with how busy the whole facility is with the current situation. At this hour, Alia found it fitting to head there. Staring at the view outside, the presence of the protective field gave out this rather breathtaking view. Amidst the thick fog comprised of the nanomachine virus and the degree of distortions, the field stood out like an aurora warding off this strange miasma. As she turned towards the sky above, she noticed a startling sight.
It was the night sky, clear with the stars shining brightly. Yet it was framed by the cylindrical field of energy projected from the base. This surreal image felt calming for her, granting a sense of clarity to let her look back on her thoughts. With a bitter smile she looked on and muttered with disdain.
"What was I thinking?" Alia whispered. Her face bore a shade of red upon realizing how embarrassing her actions were, "Going on an outburst like that. I know it would be risky to let him go alone but saying it that way? What did I get myself into now?"
"Alia?" She nearly jumped upon hearing her name.
She looked on towards the door and saw X. He had a gentle smile on his face as he approached her. His arms were inside the pockets of his coat, noting how cold it has gotten.
"X," Alia gave a nervous laugh as she sighed in relief, "What brings you here?"
"Oh, I was wondering where you went," X smiled as he joined her on the deck, leaning on one of the railings, "Mind if I join you here?"
"Feel free," she answered as she looked up at the sky once again. This prompted X to look up as well, noticing the strange scenery on that evening.
"It looks beautiful. Even at a time as chaotic as this," he uttered with a wistful tone.
A pregnant pause followed, letting the two gaze at the view around them for a bit longer. Alia remained silent for a bit as she looked at X. She noticed how he had a rather serene expression on him, despite the countless hardships faced. This was the same Hunter that she assisted through all the missions they took. To gaze at him up close with no one else around them felt special for her. Despite this, she felt rather guilty.
If there was one thing she felt guilty about, it was how she deemed herself selfish. But is she truly selfish to wish for X to be free of worry and harm? In her mind, she knew it wasn't the case. Though at this point, it was almost a question to her intentions. Her train of thought broke at the sound of his voice.
"Alia, thank you," X said to her. His voice was close to a whisper.
Curious as to what this was for, she asked, "For what?"
"For deciding to join me on the field in case we do a sortie," he replied, "I know you meant well with your decision."
"Yeah, I can't let you go out there alone," she explained as she began to weave an excuse, "I realize that I was being rather foolish. I know I can help you best as your Navigator but I can't let you go there alone. Not after this whole incident."
"That's why I am thanking you, Alia," X looked at her with a smile.
Alia felt her chest knot up from his countenance, now forlorn. While his smile seemed sweet, his eyes betrayed his true emotion. It had a hint of both sadness and fear. It looked weary.
"To be honest, I'm scared now," he spoke after taking a deep breath, hoping to calm his nerves, "I felt that I would go into battle alone once more. I felt that I failed my duty with this crisis starting up. There might even be unaccounted casualties out there while this new, unknown threat looms about."
Her heart began to ache. This Hunter who fought for his beliefs looked more like a fearful child now. The facade that he wore was gone. Before her now was a young man in both guise and heart. To think this was the same warrior that saved the world more than once.
"X, I realized that I might not be the optimal choice here as your companion," Alia spoke as she reached for his hand, letting her fingers rest against his skin, "I don't know if I'll be able to help you properly compared to when I was backing you up as a Navigator."
"You stepped up and chose to join me," X replied as he brought his hand to meet hers, letting both their fingers weave together, "That alone is enough for me."
A cold breeze rushed past the pair, causing X's scarf to dance in the wind. Alia noticed how cold it has gotten, causing her to inch closer to him.
"X, I hope you don't mind," she whispered. She could feel her chest pound hard; her face now flushed. At this point, her head is now pressed against his chest. His long coat and his body heat provided solace for her against the cold evening.
"Oh, my apologies," X stammered with a chuckle, "It's gotten chilly. We could go back inside if you wa-"
"Not yet," Alia objected as nuzzled a bit. X chose to resign on that thought as he held her close.
She seemed docile and delicate, a far cry from the professional and academic atmosphere that she exudes. The moment that she looked up at him, their eyes met. He could see her demure expression up close. He could read her lips up close, let alone hear her voice as she let out a soft and stifled voice.
"X," she softly asked, "Will you have me?"
He could feel his chest pound hard, to the point that he could hear it. He tried to put words together but they all fell short. All he could do is stare at her. It would be rude to leave her like this, to remain quiet after a question. With a smile, X could answer one word.
"Yes…"
R&D Laboratory, Hunter HQ, Abel City, 2300 hrs.
On one of the terminals in the facility, a particular researcher continued to input data with her dexterous fingers. Her pink headgear with white accents gleamed amidst the darkness, acting as a contrast to her long blond hair. With a final keystroke, she leaned back against the chair as the visor slid back. Wearing a smile, she gave a sigh of relief.
"Looks like this system is complete," she giggled at her sign of triumph.
On her terminal screen, it showed curious objects. Two of the windows showed the information regarding X and Alia. On the message box, it had an interesting update.
Synchronization Rate: 100%
System Match: Compatible
A/N:
My apologies if this chapter seemed a bit longer than the previous one. The more I wrote, the more I realized that there's a lot to tackle here. I'm trying to take this a step at a time, though, as I tried to establish the premise of this fic. Looks like the story is beginning to take shape.
The next chapter might take me longer as I'll be out of town as of this posting. I'll try to write while I'm there and get the next chapter ready.
Also, I'm considering the idea of updating my other fics (namely Paranoid Doll: Renunciation). Since I lost the original file, I had to rewrite it. It might be a good thing since I can approach it with a clearer image in mind.
Okay, that's enough from me. I do hope you enjoy this. I'll see you on the next chapter.
Sydney Grise.