The Rising Flag

by ripntear

Two centuries passed after the Great War. Amanda Amani. A wife and mother awokened from cryogenic sleep on vault 111, as the sole survivor. That is until, she discovers a secret part of the vault containing remnants of the extinct US military in cryogenic sleep. (My take on how Fallout 4 would happen with the Enclave as one of the factions the Sole Survivor can choose to join)

34. The Resource Wars II: Calm Before Storm

At last, to the continuation.

It's not always in the bloodline, but rather by generation after generation.

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Song used

"Glitter & Gold" by Barns Courtney

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-The Resource Wars II: Calm Before Storm-

Wearing a bitter frown on her face under her prestigious Liberty power armor helmet, Amanda had her arms folded at the sight of massive parts being reconstructed back to pieces. Of course... The future war vessel for the Enclave. And to think... She was very pissed about the news. Hell, it even spread faster than bullets fired from any gun.

A synth called 'Colonel Amani' tried to gain control of her military focused Enclave? What the fuck was going on now... Perhaps... The Institute took her absence as a chance to play along in whatever events took place in the Commonwealth, using her absence, as their main starting point.

But, then again... She wasn't caught either. But it'll certainly be to Hell and back if they ever want a piece of her corpse. Only then, she's pissed in the end. A fucking synth carrying her name, wearing her face, even carrying a rank that was lower to the rank she's currently being elected really pissed her off on so many fucking levels. Though she now wanted to incinerate DC right away once she gets her hands on Appalachia and it's nukes, but DC was already a shit hole. Maybe Piper was right... Perhaps... She will listen to Piper for once...?

But if there was only one with all means, and full authority to manage the Enclave, it will only be her. And not a fucking synth is to ruin her reputation as the Enclave's top brass.

So many thoughts. But she only kept two in mind... The first was, what difference it would be if she would go against this impostor, and her Enclave, bearing that same old pre-war bullshit? Of course... People will be the same old retarded wastelanders that they are, seeing everyone that points guns as the 'Bad' people. She didn't need people's opinions, and she wasn't that genocidal -Minus her anti NCR campaign that she's soon to accomplish- but Amanda knows a limit, too. She knows who to ignore. Who to be suspicious of. Who to manipulate. And who to kill. Apparently, it's all depending on how people see her. It was simple. They oppress her, she kills them. They observe what she does without a word and see to it in the end, she knows they understand her intention. She wasn't good. But she wasn't cruel either, at least when she isn't pissed... And the thought of it alone was enough to think that she's always pissed. Amanda hated that.

The other question was, where was the fruit of all of it if she finally controls everything? It was definitely not for anyone. Not for herself either...

The hangars were still occupied. And the destroyed establishments were will under construction. But most attention were on the massive pieces of the Carrier being put together back on... She needed more metal... And to seal Vault 0 under the Enclave's name, her Enclave, would guarantee the success of the reconstructed war vessel at Navarro.

Ah... Navarro...

As she took a walk around the busy field, like a stroll at the park before the bombs could even fall, Amanda never actually believed Navarro was a real thing when she first landed on California. Having to hear stories, rumors and even old tales about a nameless tribal savage from way back involving the Enclave? Amanda found it all too hard to believe. Until she actually liberated it weeks back after taking down several NCR outposts, from big and small, to most known and less, all the way to the fucking remnants of Enclave, and Brotherhood alike. But it didn't end there...

There were still those words from before that actually integrated into the NCR, resettling as civilians. Not militarily like the ones she executed... Remembering those moments she annihilate them kept Amanda awake on some nights. If there were any remnants from this outpost, and still alive... How would she tell them of her executing fellow remnants from Navarro? How would they react? Hell... The Enclave's sudden control and war against the NCR was clearly something no ignorant would ignore. But despite all this she's doing on the ruined soil of the west coast, and here on New Vegas, she was somehow wondering about all other remnants from before...

Even if the Enclave where just clearly feared for being a genocidal bunch.

A little knowledge doesn't hurt. Especially when everyone in the Enclave just wanted to kill people to bring back the pre-war United States. There really was nothing interesting other than hearing perspectives.

After having enough of touring herself around Navarro, and checking up on most parts being reconstructed, Amanda took to her vertibird to fly at Freeside, which she rarely visits.

Her mind drifted away from reality as she was transported to Freeside.

She never cared much about those other people. In fact, they're the one's that actually opposed the Enclave in the first place. Mostly being General Ward, who chose to remain as a US Army General. And to waste the opportunity to be able to control the Enclave? The man was a fool.

Then, there was Piper... Piper... She never really thought of Piper much other than a loud-mouthed reporter. But to the point that she actually joined the Enclave in the Commonwealth? Amanda doubt Piper could handle two jobs at the same time... But the obvious sign that she actually soldiered her way into the ranks... She hated to admit... But she was kind of impressed despite her dislike... If she was only allowed to... But she wanted to reform the Enclave. Under her name, image and control... And apparently, such minor distractions like Piper would only make her vulnerable to the likes of the Brotherhood, the NCR, USAF and even to the Institute. Amanda was never vulnerable and had never wanted to be. Like how she was during the pre-war era. She was a strong, capable woman that independently controlled her own fate as a pre-war lawyer.

To think... How would the Enclave's fate take a turn now that a doppelgänger is in the image? Quite shameful for a rank of Colonel, Amanda mentally snickered at the thought. But that's a synth. A replica of herself, but not fully as she was never really caught to be studied or whatever the fuck the Institute does to their abducted targets. It's only possible that the synth had done something that she doesn't do. Things like making Piper fall for her trap... Amanda wondered... If the synth even tried to make such an affectionate contact with the woman. Judging by her words through the live frequency, Piper was kind of rather different in tone. As if trying to hold back something other than her relieved voice to speak to her... Wait... This wasn't about Piper... Why the fuck was she thinking about Piper... Amanda cursed frowned. The synth really fucked up Piper's thinking. That's for sure.

But as she is still dealing with General Oliver and the NCR, there was still time to prepare what she needs and wants before confronting the impostor -the obstacle to her plan for the Enclave- by war.

So many times to use, yet any to spare, but to spare some Amanda just had to use whatever free time she now has just to venture into Freeside.

It wasn't much after getting out of the vertibird. Other than the patrols of AIs and Outcasts alone giving her respectful nods. She still didn't like the settlement. It was good in space, she'll give it that, but not as pleasing as she thought it would be.

As she further wandered, she stumbled upon another entrance, there she met a sight of locals giving medical treatment to some other locals.

Earning nods from the locals, Amanda decided to go and ask a few of the locals his were they doing despite being strictly on lockdown, however, a man bumped onto her Liberty power armor.

"Watch where the hell you're going, civilian."

Amanda harshly began, and to see a blonde man in average height, wearing a lab coat and thick glasses, Amanda watched as the man gave a slow apology.

"Sorry, I'm just not used around Enclave personnel around... Anyway, can I help you with something, Ma'am? Sorry, but if you're needing medical help, try the other doctors. I'm just a researcher. Not even a particularly good one."

Amanda slightly raised a brow.

"A researcher like you doing here on a medical station? What do you do around here?"

She wanted a slight shrug with a small sigh.

"Oh, you know. Finding alternatives for common illnesses and injuries. Stimpaks out of barrel cacti and other fantastic improbabilities."

Amanda mentally snorted. This was a boring topic alright...

"Boring..."

She straightly said. But to earn another sigh, she earned a response.

"As far as fruitless wastes of time go, it's quite noble in its aims."

Amanda just gave a lazy nod. Then noticed the insignia on the sleeves of the lab coat.

"You part of the Followers of the Apocalypse, I see."

She earned a small grateful nod.

"For the past hundred years or so, the Followers have managed to get by using salvaged medical supplies from the Old World. But the side effects of medical success is that more people live longer. Funny how that works."

Amanda just simply stared at the man in boredom.

"What's the current status?"

Amanda decided to ask. Obviously having heard enough of the boring topic the man was talking about.

"Well... Eventually, we'll run our of hospitals to loot. We need new ways to produce supplies, or maybe old ways. If, this research does go anywhere of course..."

Amanda recalled hospitals being recently sacked by the NCR due to the amount of its soldiers taken extensive damages from her own. Should she tell this man about the second wave of the Resource Wars?

Mentally cursing, Amanda decided to change the subject. Of course. She was not into helping people. But rather... Push them aside as she continues on absorbing all resources that she get while in this war with the NCR...

"What types of medical equipment do you need, or are you needing?"

She watched as the man adjusted his glasses and folded his arms before responding.

"Cut, lacerations, broken bones. Infections resulting from all the of above. Common cold, influenza. Take your pick."

Amanda thought of it for moment. Though, none of her human personnel were dealing with such, and all were given proper medical care by their combat medics, there was however, one report from before that she ignored about civilians dealing with common illnesses due to the lockdown on Freeside, preventing caravans from delivering supplies alas, medical supplies. But medical supplies, and all as such were being nabbed by the NCR. These people are definitely suffering while a war is still in effect... Part of Amanda's good side despite her neutral nature kicked in... She disliked that.

"There are plenty of ways to die out there. And most of them, surprisingly, don't have to do with war against the NCR. Really. Just common human fragility."

Amanda mentally cursed. It's day eight of the second Resource Wars. Clearly, she did have her soldiers on the front lines keep civilians out of the way as possible, but she didn't expect things turned a different turn... But this wasn't her fault. Perhaps maybe it is, but she isn't the only to blame for, as the NCR were to take a part of the other half of this war.

Clearing her throat, Amanda decided to speak.

"You don't sound enthusiastic about helping at all. Perhaps it's not much of a big deal."

"Oh, I am enthusiastic alright. I really am, but with Enclave presence here, and your Outcast doing the dirty job on the NCR patrols? I'm just not comfortable, but nihil novi sub sole."

Amanda glared at the man. He dared accuse the Enclave and the Outcast for being here makes him feel uncomfortable?

"Oh, sorry. It means, 'The is nothing new under the sun'. If agave and mesquite were that miraculous, the locals would've figured it out a few thousand years ago."

Amanda simply replied in plain tone.

"That's Latin. I know the language. But speaking of which... I've gathered intelligence about Caesar's Legion when they still pose a threat here in New Vegas four years ago."

She earned a nod and a response.

"Caesar can cite Cato to suit his purpose. Many people have spoken Latin. Some of them were quite pleasant."

Amanda watched as the man sighed in obvious disappointment before letting him continue.

"Although it was a real shame, that the language was now associated with the gentlemen across the river four years ago."

"They're rapists. Slavers, and illiterate savages that deserved more than being on a cross. And yes. I had them all crucified at Arizona."

She watched as the man flinched back at her statement with wide eyes.

"It's only fair that you're wanting justice for the poor elders, sick and weak that they've killed, and mostly for the women they've abused, and sold as wives-"

"Not justice. I just simply want them out of my way. I intend to erase potential obstacles to lessen the course I have to break down for the Enclave to achieve more military power."

"You're a neutrally chaotic woman, I see... And you lead them...?"

Amanda just gave a slight shrug.

"I will take that as a yes."

Deciding to further ask the man, Amanda cleared her throat and began.

"So. Where did you learned Latin."

More of a demanding statement, but seeing the man just taking it casually like a question, Amanda got a response.

"Not from the Legion, if that's were you're getting at. Books. Sheet music. Gladiator movie holotapes. Bits and pieces here and there."

Amanda was already damn bored. Yeah. This is the most boring man to ever exists alright...

"And you gain knowledge by the Followers, hm?"

"Yes. The Followers have extensive libraries, but we all draw ware from the same old well. Even Caesar. But that was four years ago before the NCR took control."

Amanda just gave a simple nod.

"Can you tell me about more about Caesar? I want to hear from your perspective as a local."

"I don't know anything the others couldn't tell you. Caesar was one of the Followers. Croft why time of course."

Amanda fave a small nod in acknowledgment.

"He wanted to rebuild the word in the image of the old. A sad sorry of good intentions gone bad. In that regard, he's hardly unique."

Amanda was left thinking for some time. Intentions... Not everyone e were as good with intentions after all, but then to see the man continue, Amanda listened further.

"If you set aside his leadership capabilities, extensive knowledge, and ruthless cunning, he's just another jerk who steps on people to get his way."

Amanda felt insulted and glared at the man. She hated that.

"Are you trying to imply that the Enclave's doings are the same as-"

"I did not imply any on my word. Unless you take offense, perhaps you are a jerk who steps on people, moreover, the NCR to get your way?"

Amanda tried her best to remain calm. She hated that.

"Oh, my apologies for that. But to revert to the topic, not all Followers are "People Persons.' Besides, someone needs to do research. I have no problem with a Julie sticking me back here."

Amanda folded her arms.

"God, you're that boring."

"Out of sight, out of mind. There are things one can be. Though I do admit. It is a bit boring."

Amanda just lazily stared at the man before giving a lazy response.

"Is there even a point to all of this you're doing?"

She watched as the man sighed before earning a response.

"Though it has a noble goals, I don't think this research will yield much fruit. No pun intended."

Giving a small acknowledging nod, Amanda responded.

"Since you've already been through hell fours years ago, and almost every locals here on Vegas already not in favor of the NCR here, do you think there would still be a problem even when the NCR gone?"

"Personally, no. But thanks to you, what you're doing, Julie says were a lot better off these days. I'll take her word for it. So thanks."

A quick pause, then came a continuation.

"Anyway I'm really very boring. You'd get better stories out of a Freeside junkie."

Amanda raised a brow. This man is so hard in himself. Not like she cared, but interestingly enough, his tone was on edge about the Enclave earlier.

Deciding to dismiss the thought, Amanda decided to be easy on the man for a bit She's been talking in harsh tone for long after all...

"Don't be hard in yourself."

"No, really. Have you ever snorted a ground up Cazador venom sac? Neither have I, but I can guarantee you that Freeside junkie has."

Amanda just rolled her eyes under her helmet.

"You got a name."

More of a demand than question, she wanted a small sigh and response.

"My name's Arcade Gannon."

"Specific background of yourself."

"Oh, alright. I'm thirty-ish. Well, late thirties. I was born... West of here. I was an only child, and spent most of my time with my mother."

Amanda he gave a simple acknowledging nod.

"And your father?"

She noticed Arcade shifting uncomfortably, a quick glance at the insignia on her Liberty power armor before a quiet response. Somethings up with this man.

"My father died when I was young and I never got over it. Oh... And I like medicine and reading books about a failed pre-war socioeconomic policies."

Amanda just stared down at the man.

"Right now, I'm sure you're asking yourself here. 'Why hasn't some lucky man scooped this bachelor off his feet?' Like I said, I'm boring."

Amanda just gave a small gesturing hand.

"If you say so. I really could care less."

She watched as Arcade flinched back at her response.

"Okay, okay. I get it. You don't have to agree with me that much..."

Amanda wasn't a fool, neither ignorant. In fact, reading facial expressions, and closely hearing vocal tones are what mostly got her to uphill on her career as a lawyer during the pre-war era, winning her lots of cases.

And to see Arcade was completely boring. But hinting interesting parts of himself. And his statement clearly meant he's wanting to end the conversation. Amanda knew what to do.

"Since, you don't look so busy like the other doctors here, mind taking a walk with me? I want to get more perspective from an outsider like you."

"Well... It doesn't hurt to talk to an Enclave officer... I guess?"

Taking a slow walk with Arcade, Amanda took her chance to question.

"Do most people agree on the NCR being around more that Caesar's Legion four years ago?"

"I wouldn't put it most, as I didn't see it on most people. Though, some do. I just... Don't."

Amanda gave a small nod.

"Look, I appreciate that you're trying to be friendly, but I'd just rather not discuss it..."

Amanda mentally noted. NCR off the topic. But personal background, is.

"You sometimes talk about your personal life?"

"Only to obfuscate my past association with a fascist paramilitary organization."

Amanda didn't bought it. In fact, it sounded sarcastic...

"I'm joking, of course. I will deflect personal questions at any opportunity."

Amanda frowned. She was right. But that was a joke? Okay... Arcade is that boring, and terrible...

"Tell me where you learned most of your knowledge about medicine."

"The Followers taught me everything I know about medicine. Despite our humble abode here in New Vegas, we have great facilities in the NCR. But... They keep it only limited use for outsiders like us. Mostly just for their own benefit."

Another good point to erase the NCR. Amanda liked that.

"So, you're technically on your on this medical mission to help the locals, hm?"

She earned a small nod.

"We have over extended ourselves by setting up camp here in Freeside, but the people here need help from someone. If not us, who?"

Quite a noble outlook that is, especially on a war turned out mainly for resources? Very noble indeed...

"How do you even manage to try, despite all these happenings here on New Vegas now?"

To see Arcade sighing again, Amanda got a response.

"Honestly, it isn't too difficult. If you have half a brain and aren't a complete jerk. I wanted to help people, and I enjoyed learning, so, I signed up."

Oh, very noble of him... But, that wasn't something effective in war. Determination is, and ruthless efforts. But then again, this wasn't for the war effort. But for the cause of the innocent. Unfortunately, Amanda didn't believe in good causes. Rather, she goes on the neutral force.

"What was the cause of this you're doing? Surely, every noble deeds have originated causes of why they're being committed."

Of course... There she goes again with the element of manipulation to gain information... Amanda loved that.

"New Vegas is in trouble. Especially as it was four years ago from between a Bear and a Bull. So, I came out here. With committed violence all around from here and there, if someone doesn't step up and try to help the people here it's going to end very badly."

Amanda just vaguely nodded for Arcade to continue.

"It could've been better. If we only found a way toward the Independence of New Vegas. But the predictions of anarchy despite independence wasn't what the people favor for either. But... You never know what people really want. You just never know. So hopefully... Just... Hopefully... What this resurfaced Enclave is doing would be a great ideal, at least a noble one at the very least to lessen the problems here on Vegas. No demanding for land slash territories, crops and the horribly abused control for tax payments. And not especially enslaving, rape, and torture."

"Even if it's a neutral organization that you're looking at?"

"Neutralization doesn't really make anyone as terrible as the NCR, neither as terribly worse than Caesar himself. It only shows the outcome by their commitments. As neutral as your cause may be, it is unpredictable. It can either be good, it can either be bad."

Arcade has a point... But the intentions she had on Vegas was to simply wipe out the NCR, replace it with the Minutemen to influence and help the west coast, California and Vegas to thrive as societies. Which were good intentions. But there was the other end of the commitment. To absorb what resource was beneficial to the Enclave. Arcade was right on every person point. It us unpredictable. It can either be good, it can either be bad. She's clearly the one being referred to mentally... Fuck. Amanda hated that.

"But really. As long as you don't feed the Bear, anything's better than that."

The fucking Bear. Of course... The one who overthrown the Bull and House four years ago, with the help of a no-name bastard. Perhaps, Courier did something good. It was either for these people to get absorbed and pay taxes to the NCR, then become slaves by Caesar's Legion. But to see the bitter end of the NCR after those four years. The Bear just had to be butchered down now.

"I see your outlook. But respect that I won't be seeing it further the way you see it."

Amanda plainly said, and to want a respectful nod, she got a response from Arcade.

"Not all Followers are good with people."

Amanda simply took the statement in agreement. Of course. Not all people are too with intentions as she sees it her way. Close enough.

"If you like, we can get you relocated. Somewhere off NCR reach and focus on your own research. You will be provided by equipment, of course. If you like."

"It's fine. I'm fine doing research back here. Even if it is a bit boring... Pointless... As a complete waste of time."

Amanda just simply nodded.

"Don't mind me. I'm just voicing my thoughts, so they don't burrow out of my skull in a fit of abject despondency."

Amanda gave another simple nod.

"You've been doing good, at least... Keeping those patrols off settlements and people. Though, the tax seems fine as a little reminder of the Old World, but the NCR clearly being it, and demanding resources and land and such? Yeah... Maybe I'd rather not have them around. And honestly, or rather, surprisingly, I haven't heard anyone say a negative word about you. I could only hope your cause mean well, despite its neutrality..."

Amanda noticed an obvious edge on Arcades' voice. Almost as it edging from mentioning the name...

"As long as you keep working to benefit the people around here get a fair shake, sure, I'll lend a hand. In medicine, I mean, if you need one."

Amanda just simply nodded for the third time. She wasn't into helping people. But she didn't felt like it on seeing others being stepped on either. Maybe she should just respect her neutral nature...

"Well... Good luck to you, and your future endeavors. Assuming they don't involve the old genocidal ideals of the Enclave..."

Amanda stopped on her track. Her stare simply down at Arcade. Was he... Putting faith? Probably not... But to his tone of optimism, showed an obvious edge away from the Enclave's names by mention... She's definitely interested to know more...

"If you think of the ideals from before people used to think it's frightening. Even til this day. But yours... It's just undetermined. A lot more terrifying if you think deeper if you ask me. Also, something to surprise people by each commitment you do. But I think you're on the right track. That is, in my opinion."

Amanda folded her arms as she continued to walk along with Arcade.

"And you don't suppose to have anything against control?"

"I used to prefer independence for New Vegas. But now... It's only a matter of time to realize what you really want. And I still don't know what I want for New Vegas other than helping people. But, to relatively ensure safety of other people on New Vegas, is to prevent others from taking control of the Region. Unless, they don't bear the ideals of the NCR, Legion as such. That means, no NCR, no Mr. House and the Legion. But this stated outlook of mine was for four years ago."

"I don't have any deeds to control Vegas."

Amanda stated. Though, she already controls California, and the other regions, but California and Vegas were really to be under Minutemen control as visually. But in reality, she's the one in charge despite not absorbing the Minutemen in the Enclave. As top brass after all. But she doesn't intent o judge the Minutemen ideals and has little interest of helping others she intends to neutrally control.

"I... Need to talk to you about something... If it's fine."

Amanda just simply shrugged and waited for Arcade to continue.

"Days passing now. The NCR is demanding all resources from locals to benefit their military against the Enclave... I know about those words passed by. You've kicked the NCR out of the Hoover Dam, destroyed two of their camps by mini nukes, imprisoned soldiers and executed high ranking officials... But with General Oliver still in charge, they just wouldn't give up. Even despite hearing news that they've lost their campaign annexing a region to a militia on the east cost? They still wouldn't give up. And I think it's now the time that people officially wants the NCR out of Mojave."

Amanda just listened closely as Arcade continued.

"We're already part in something important out here. Hell, after how you handled the NCR and their numbers, you're practically right in the middle of all this if I'm not wrong."

"Your point is?"

She watched as Arcade sighed. His eyes through his glasses averting to the AI patrols, and keeping things in line.

"I know... You won't take any word from a boring member of the Follower like me. But... It's made me think about the past. I know you don't need help, but... Seeing your name, your undetermined outlook despite all this..."

Amanda raised a brow as Arcade sighed and cleared his throat to continue.

"I wasn't always with the Followers. Or with the NCR..."

She earned a long stare. A very reluctant one.

"My late father... Was an officer in a group called the Enclave. Remnants of America's pre-war Government. Yes. The same Enclave bearing your insignia, but not your undetermined intentions..."

Amanda knew something was up with Arcade despite his boring identity now... Now it all made sense why he was so on edge about the Enclave.

"With memories being short around here, not a lot of people remember. The Enclave from before... They did very bad things... Terrorized communities. Kidnapped people..."

"I know the story. Even some old tales about a tribal savage stopping them? People at California still remember about that old legend. But, I intend not to take it seriously as that was the past."

She earned a small nod.

"Yes. That was all very true. I was born a few years later in a military base on the coast. A place called Navarro."

Amanda was a bit surprised by his response. But Navarro? Not so much...

"I have Navarro under my control. We now use it as an outpost slash Enclave facility. But no. We don't kidnap people, though you may call what we did on the parts here on Vegas occupied by the NCR is terrorism, but we have our own reasons. I have my own reasons."

"That is understandable. Still noble, in my opinion."

Amanda gave small nod and questioned.

"So tell me what you know about the Enclave's controlled locations, the other Oil Rig Control Station ENCLAVE and Navarro. I want to know at least from your perspective."

She watched as Arcade sighed yet again before a response.

"A lot of different places. In fact, I only know what I was told. Some of them were cut down by the NCR and the Brotherhood. While most, were believed to have gone east."

Not all remnants joined her. Others joined an impostor carrying her name... It all made sense why not all responded to her recall when she firstly gathered all the remnants to reunite. That impostor, and those remnants under her are definitely going to be a problem...

"What happened back then. To your father?"

"My mother never told me what happened to my father. But she and I went south with some others and integrated into the NCR. But seeing how that you're annihilating them, we wouldn't be under the NCR any further."

"I know about the annexation the NCR does, as well as the integration of the people it annexes territories of."

"Yes. What you know are all very true. When the NCR learned that Enclave personnel had integrated, we kept moving to the fringes. It's one of the reasons why I wound up around here."

Amanda gave an acknowledging nod.

"That was after the Navarro fell?"

"Yes. After the Enclave's command structure fell apart, it was only a matter of time before Navarro was overrun by NCR forces. My mother and I left with some of the troopers from my father's old unit, the same people, I've kept in contact with over the years."

Amanda raised a brow. Surely... Those people were the ones she executed, perhaps?

"And the rest?"

Amanda simply asked.

"Anyone who didn't got out of Navarro was killed by the NCR. Even some of the ones who escaped were eventually hunted down by the Brotherhood of Steel."

Amanda simply shrugged and replied.

"We've been receiving complaints from main Brotherhood of Steel on California. Complaints about the Minutemen control replacing the NCR. Those were the militia that rivaled them. Ironic, isn't it? But as we have neutral intentions here on the west coast, the Minutemen truly means well. And were just pardoning the Brotherhood complaints. But if they ever take further offense meaning any violent actions towards the Minutemen on California, I will not think twice having their High Council at Lost Hills bunker erased off the map of California, then probably hunt down all of their struggling chapters. Ifthey try anything, that is."

Amanda coldly stated. Though, she was just tying to be 'Human' at least. Pardoning the Brotherhood complaints she received from California was fine but if they really do interfere, nor compromise the Minutemen on California -Which she considers unlawful commitment- she will definitely wipe out everything on Lost hills. Despite earning such a surprised look from Arcade, Amanda also earned an acknowledging nod from him.

"I can't say I blame you if the Brotherhood does anything stupid to your neighboring militia. Though... The Enclave -whether you believe it or not- really did a lot of bad things from way back. But, there were good people at Navarro. Good people with a lot of experience. Not many of them are alive anymore. But in the end despite their questionable deeds, they did help defend the Hoover Dam against Caesar's Legion four years ago. That Courier manage to round them up for a reunion, to help the NCR on defending the Dam against the Legion. It was just a quick fly over, guns blazing from above. And people still talked about that, but the NCR being the jerks they are, wanted to pursue those people... Those people close enough that I have to family over the years."

Amanda raised a brow.

"Courier Six got them all to help the NCR defend the Dam from the Legion?"

"Yes. I know I don't want the Legion to take the Hoover Dam and take over Vegas, and I know that I'm not voted for the NCR either. But what was there choose on those days? It's either the Bear or the Bull. Despite both having their downs, cons, and negatives... I agreed to come join the Courier and gather the rest of the old remnants."

Amanda folded her arms firmly before asking.

"The Enclave doesn't need any help from old expendables. But would you still want them around?"

As surprised was the expression on Arcades' face was, Amanda earned a small nod.

"Yes. Though, not militarily. But... Rather, have them here on Freeside. They're old. But still scattered out there. And with all these gunfires just for resources happening? I could barely think of a way to get them all reunited again. But this time... Rather, permanently. I care for them, even though I was just along for the ride four years ago. They're all I have left close to family. The last thing I want is word about them passing away, or worse out there. Hell... Cannibal Johnson still lives on that cave... And Moreno still refused to leave his old house on the land being claimed by NCR."

Amanda figured where this was going... She hated favors. However... She killed another unit from Navarro... One less mistake to be atone for, right?

"I have men at disposal to pick them up. But seeing that they won't listen to servicemen in these days, I'll consider myself picking them up and bring them all here."

She simply said, and to see a huge smile from Arcades' face before a quick response.

"Great! I'd like you to talk to the old-timers, the Remnants. Though I managed to convince them once, with the help of the Courier, but even til this day, to them I'm still a kid. But knowing you're a huge part of what's going on out here today? No doubt they'll understand how important this all is. Especially when this is regarding their safety..."

Amanda mentally sighed with a frown. There was nothing to do. She already has soldiers operating in the field, kicking NCR ass, gathering, and absorbing resources, as well as liberating Vault 0. The only thing she needs to do was to be present in live action once they deal with Camp McCarran. This was just a simple distraction to keep her occupied. Perhaps...

"Tell me about each of the Remnants, and their locations."

Amanda finally began.

"I've kept in contact with them over the years, so, I know where you can find them, though, I think I should come with you in just case if they don't listen-"

"I can insist. Plus, I can manipulate them instead to come along if I want to."

"Well, if you say so. Now... To tell about each of them."

Amanda gave a small, simple nod.

"I'm all ears."

"All right. We'll start with Daisy, she lives in Novac. Since my mother died, Daisy's been the only woman in my life. She was the only other woman close to my father, too. She flew him out on over a dozen of missions, including his last. I've, always been close to Daisy.

Though, there had been some good men along the way. But lovers make poor confidants. Daisy never had children of her own, so, she was always there to listen.

And being in the Enclave didn't mean much to her. She just loved to fly. It broke her heart to be grounded. Not much glory in the Enclave as most her old comrades are long gone."

Amanda just gave a plain nod and simply replied.

"It's her choice. You can't change her view if she doesn't like the Enclave."

She earned a small nod.

"I know life as a salvager can't compare to being a vertibird pilot but... At least it's life. That had to count for something."

Amanda just lazily shrugged and watched as Arcade sighed before continuing.

"As screwed up as it sounds, at least she was part of something. Granted it was something... Admittedly pretty bad, but at least it was something.

And if you spent half of your life flying Enclave troopers in a vertibird, I suppose picking over pre-war rocket parts don't quite compare."

"Not one bit, Arcade. Not even compared to reconstructing a pre-war Aircraft Carrier at Navarro into a flying war vessel. But who's next on your list?"

She earned a disturbed look from Arcade before a response.

"Doc Henry. He's in Jacobstown. In his time, he was a scientist in the Enclave. And as always, Doc Henry was always a hard one to figure out. It didn't seem to matter on whether he was working with humans or dogs.

He had an equal lack of affection for both. A regular Diogenes. I'm not sure what the man was after as 'Knowledge is power' but to what end for Henry, I have no idea. The problem was what mattered to him, not it's practical impact. He even simply solved riddles because they existed."

Amanda was clearly bored under her helmet, but she still managed to bring herself to listen closely and even gave comment herself.

"He's that boring as you are, I see..."

"Well, I'm sure Henry has goals. He was just more concerned on the 'How' than the 'Why' of things. And like, Daisy, being in the Enclave didn't really mean much to him.

So, I guess I'm lucky I'm part of the Followers. Helping people as a doctor is important, but with the Followers, it feels different. It feels like were working toward something important. That's more than the sum of good deeds that we do."

Amanda frowned.

"Can we all seriously move on now? We can't change what shit the bastards of the pre-war did. So many people died and it's all their fault. And that makes every one of them involved causing the Great War deserved what got to them."

Amanda had to stop. She was letting her temper get over her again...

''Those who served and caused the Great War deserved to die as payment... I've lost everything... Especially Nate and Shaun all because of them..."

Again... Her temper was getting over her head...

To see Arcade staring at her, she noticed a bit of curiosity, on behalf of concern. Though, he couldn't read her expression due to her helmet, but the man was clearly trying to study her judging by her tone. Amanda hated that.

With a sigh, she just gave small nod for Arcade to continue on.

"Not everyone dreams of being a revolutionary. I suppose you're right that maybe we all can't the world the way it already is. Maybe it's enough just to do good for the short time that we're here.

Though, no one's going to sing Doc Henry's praises when he's gone. But he's probably saved more lives than I ever will..."

Amanda just mentally sighed and finally gave a simple reply.

"Continue."

"Now, if I have to pick anyone who didn't belong in the Enclave, it would definitely be Johnson. He lives on a cave, just northeast from Camp Golf. Back in his day, he hated what the Enclave was doing. Day to day, week to week, he would question orders, subvert mission objectives. Being a marksman in the Enclave, he'd do anything he could to serve without serving."

Amanda raised a brow in curiosity.

"Really...?"

"Yes. It's amazing how he was never even court-martialed. But he always had good things to say about my father. Said I was like him in a lot. of ways. I wish I knew.

I wonder if he would. I know, it's pointless. But sometimes I wonder what he wanted me to be. Maybe being a doctor in the middle of Nevada wasn't exactly what he had in mind for his little boy..."

"Does that matter now? He's long gone. And you're still here, doing what you like, and what you think is right."

Amanda watched as Arcade sighed.

"Well, I grew up without him. I always feel like something is missing from my life, and it's not like I'm the only kid in the wasteland who grew up without a dad. Johnson always said my father was a good man. But you're right. I'll take your word for it."

"I always am. Now continue."

"On the fourth of the list, we got Orion Moreno. He lives near the NCR Sharecropper farms. Back in his days, Moreno was a heavy trooper in the Enclave. Though, out of all the Remnants, Moreno took the fall of the Enclave hard. He never questioned his orders, never questioned the legitimacy of what the Enclave was really doing back then.

To him, it was all one unbroken chain, from Washington to Richardson. But when we left Navarro, I remember looking up at Moreno. He said 'Kiss America goodbye boys'. And when we left the Enclave behind, the love in him burned itself out. Now, there's just a bitter old man left."

Amanda simply shrugged before responding.

"Some people just value loyalty. Despite the reality of what they're really told to do."

"I know... It's just been, so many decades now, you know. By now, he's been out of the Enclave more than he was in. Most people knew when to hang it up and start over. But not Moreno."

"If he just loves being the part of the Enclave, then that's on him. People after all, have their ideals, and outlooks themselves. It's just how life is, even from before the bombs dropped."

"I suppose you're right. If you're part of something for that long, maybe it's impossible to let go without losing part of yourself. And Moreno may be a stubborn son of a bitch, but at least he's loyal."

Giving one simple nod, Amanda simply replied.

"How many more are there on your list?"

"Just one more. Judah Kreger. He's settled on Westside. You know Westside, near Miguel's Pawn Shop? That's the settlement.

Judah Kreger was the glue that kept us all together, over the years, and with good reason."

Amanda mentally sighed before giving a slight nod for Arcade to continue.

"Anyone who can command Moreno and Johnson in the same unit without somebody getting fragged is one hell of a leader."

"How so?"

"Well, Kreger is polite and kind, but never warm. He always did his best to make me feel welcome in the group. I think he did it out a sense of loyalty to my father. Loyalty means a lot to Judah. Not loyalty to the Enclave, or the ideals they fought for, but to the people who served with him."

Amanda frowned. One thing she disliked was hearing too much about the Enclave's ideology of being the government. She hated that.

The only thing that she would rather carry in its name was the military of the Enclave itself, as a piece to remind herself of Nate. And no. The US Army at Boston was just a complete bullshit that it just didn't make any sense why they preferred to stay as they were rather become something far beyond greater. Like serving the Enclave under her wing. So pretty much to Amanda, the USAF are nothing more but a small group to be eaten out alive by the wasteland...

"I was only a boy when they went through hell together. And see good Ow that it's far worse than before in the situation, I just want to reunite them permanently here on Freeside. And even if I'd be just a spectator in all this, I know they can still do some good.

Though, sometimes, I wonder how much of my father they see in me. They went through a lot. together, but my family went through it, too. And I'm glad they've watched out for me all these years. I figured, that maybe someday I can return the favor. This day should be it. Will you do me that favor? And in return, I will do my best to help out the people here on Freeside the best as I could while you deal with the NCR. It's, not much I know, but considering bringing the Remnants here to resettle, it would mean a lot to me."

Amanda took a long moment in thinking. She had nothing against of what they saw against the Enclave during their time. But that's just her good side tempo get her that. Perhaps, she could make use of it while her bad side against the NCR still hasn't yet taken over. After all, her two different sides rotate every once in a while... She was either good and bad. But Amanda was completely fine with it.

"Only for ensuring safety of senior citizens, I'll have them rounded up here."

She earned a grateful nod from Arcade.

"Thank you- Wait... I haven't gotten your name-"

"I go by Commander. Of the Enclave today. But sadly, that wouldn't last long as the high ranking officers were electing me as General."

She didn't allow Arcade to respond despite his surprised expression before turning away, and heading back, formally, onto her vertibird.

Wait... Was she really doing this? Perhaps... But she knew this wasn't permanent, as her bad side would eventually rotate over her good side... She just couldn't help but do quite some bad, and some good. But she's doing this for the Enclave's real glory. But, while her bad side eventually relieves her good side... She may as well visit the old wounds of the Enclave.

It was quite a nice trip on the way to Novac. There was no gunfire at least, just the pure heated wasteland of Mojave itself.

As she had the AI pilot to go be on standby just twenty meters of Novac.

As she set on foot while being on power armor, Amanda fearlessly walked across the open, a modified laser minigun in her hands as she strode past civilians giving quick stares, and even receiving some nods.

She didn't want her good side to mind the wastelanders. Her focus was the Remnants, as she didn't have time to bring a good type for long.

Deciding to look around the environment of scrap piles, outside what seemed to look like some sort of old motel, Amanda saw an elderly woman approaching her casually with a nod. Her outfit clearly resembles just an average Mojave wastelander, Amanda also noticed a wooden rifle on her back.

Amanda decided to put her laser minigun away as she noticed people were also around. Damn good side of hers...

"Your travels been going all right?"

Hearing a woman with a southern accent ask with a greeting smile, Amanda just vaguely nodded.

"Actually, I'm here for someone named Daisy."

Amanda raised before slowly adding quietly.

"Retired Enclave pilot from outpost Navarro."

Rather, a statement than a question, Amanda earned a small nod, and to see the woman looking up at her then back onto her insignia, Amanda waited for a reply.

"I am. Daisy Whitman, vertibird pilot in the Enclave. But... How'd you-?"

"Young man at Freeside. Arcade Gannon, former member of the Followers."

"Ah. You've met little Arcade... He told you of the others?"

Amanda just vaguely nodded.

"And about your history, as the Remnants."

"Well, since that you know now, what brings you here to Novac? Surely it has to do with something. Seeing that the Enclave today is more of a, military one than the one I remembered is on a standoff with the NCR, is there something you came here for other than meeting me?"

Amanda just wanted it to be over with, and nodded.

"Yes. But other than wanting to meet you here, I'd like to get to know if what you do in these days."

As always, being part of her manipulation on individuals, Amanda just had to start to basic steps. Getting to know, before the manipulation play...

Focusing on Daisy, Amanda got a reply.

"I help folks strip down the most complicated buts of salvage they bring in -Engines mostly."

Giving a small acknowledging nod, Amanda asked again.

"Salvaged parts for sale, hm?"

"The bits, and pieces we take out are usually worth more than the whole thing put together."

Amanda simply nodded.

"I'm here to reunite you and your comrades. Arcade, of course, is aware. But no. This doesn't involve the Enclave toady, and it's mexican standoff with the NCR if that's what you're thinking."

"And he told you clearly everything about us, did he? Well, it's been four years since he got us reunited to help defend the Hoover Dam. Four years, I've had my hands on our vertibird."

Amanda simply nodded.

"I'm still surprised that I didn't crash us in the middle of Lake Mead on the way to the Dam. But in my case now? I've got a feeling there wouldn't be luck. But I'm just glad I got to fly a vertibird again four years ago, even if it might be for sure my last."

"I have an automated pilot on my vertibird, but I've flown one of the spare vertibirds on my own when I had time. Which was rare back when I'm still on California."

She earned a small respective nod and a grin.

"I like to hear about your experiences when you had those times. Though being in the Enclave? I was never into it that much. I was more into the freedom of flying around."

"And I bet you had times getting into troubles from detours for extended trips?"

Amanda asked, rather casually, and as no surprise, she watched as Daisy shortly laughed with a nod.

"Yeah... I was never happier than I was in the cockpit. I was able to go just about anywhere and everywhere, limited only by the fuel I could carry."

The fact that Daisy replied casually, Amanda noticed a sense of amusement and nostalgia from the old woman. Her tone and her eyes clearly said it that flying was her only option in the Enclave. Amanda found it too hard to believe as the Enclave were nothing more but... Amanda didn't want to continue in the thought. Instead, she just gave a respectable nod at the old woman.

"And to fully answer your question, there were more than a few missions where I took the scenic route home, just so I could stay in the air. Caught hell for it every time, but worth it!"

As slow as Amanda nodded in respect, she had to slowly take the slow approach for manipulation.

"I see that you've enjoyed life as you saw fit back in your day. But what of the Enclave? What did they think of their soldiers like that?"

As slow and gentle as she asked, Amanda watched as Daisy gently sighed and replied.

"Things that I didn't like in the Enclave, I had to take comfort in my passion for flying... Whether we liked it or not, orders were orders. And as shameful as I am to admit, some of the things we did as were told were questionable. I know it was wrong... But, that's just how it was back then. Figure I've done any good to make up for any sins anyhow."

She got the response as slow, and almost at if, running out of air per each word. Amanda didn't need to identify how the tone was, as Daisy's face showed regret, shame, and despair. Amanda felt bad somehow... Damn good side...

"Hey. At least you're living your life freely mow. No more orders. No more reports, mission briefings. No more doing what the Enclave makes you do that you don't want to."

Amanda gently said. Half of her meant it while the other, was clearly not of manipulation. Piper did this to her.

"I appreciate that, young Ma'am. But as for your purpose of being here... You still want some old vets at Freeside?"

Amanda slowly nodded. Her manipulation was done.

"Shall I escort you by my vertibird, Ms Daisy?"

She earned a warm smile before a response.

"No need, Ma'am. Though, I may be old, but I can still manage. If you like, you can come by to our secret bunker. It's where the others, and I stored our old vertibird and gear. Though, I sure as hell doubt I'll never have that luck flying a vertibird again with my age, I'll meet you there while you gather the others. Have you still yet met them?"

"I'm just about to."

She earned a nod and a reply.

"All right then, happy trip to the others. But since you already know about me and the others, I'll let you know about the little secret pass to the bunker, it's 107 metes of Ranger Station Foxtrot. My part of the pass phrase is 'Dear'."

"Acknowledged."

Amanda simply replied. For some reason, she couldn't help but smile softly. She actually enjoyed the conversation. Amanda liked that.

"Watch your six out there."

Amanda gave a small nod and said farewell before setting foot back to the vertibird. One down, four more to go.

As she got in the vertibird, Amanda turned to the pilot.

"Ten four. Jacobstown."

"Yes, Commander!"

Another short while on the trio, bit by vertibird, it was a brief wait before she was dropped twenty-five meters of Jacobstown.

She had never been on the location personally, other than her soldiers now protecting the location from the NCR.

As she entered what appeared to look like a big wooden establishment from the pre-war, she was met by a few settlers, who all gave nods at her.

Though, her independence clearly took over her instead of asking for the medical facility, Amanda's perceptiveness eventually led her to the medical facility. Though, it didn't like much, but there was a sight of a few medical staffs nearby.

Approaching one of the staffs, Amanda began to question.

"Is Doctor Henry present?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

The staff replied and immediately excuses himself before calling out to an old man wearing a causal pants, shirt and thick glasses.

"I'm Doctor Henry. Is there something else I can do for you?"

Amanda simply nodded before responding formerly.

"Doctor Henry, of the Enclave from Navarro."

She earned a nod rather than a surprised look. Almost as if the man was just a simple casual type.

"Yes. Specializing in neuroscience, both human and canine. Of course, this lab is nothing compared to what I had when I was with the Enclave."

And a mentally noted. As casual, and like Arcade in mix, this old man is boring by tine and his casual expression.

Getting down to business slowly by basic questioning, Amanda slowly began, still in formal tone.

"How was your biography status when you were still with the Enclave?"

Amanda watched as Henry readjusted his glasses before folding his arms.

"It was fine, yes. But the leadership and I didn't see eye to eye, so, I left. It was the right decision, since the Enclave's Oil Rig was destroyed not long after."

"Interestingly enough, yes. But just to tell you, there's still the another Oil Rig on the Pacific. Omega 7-5. Its recent status is being further reconstructed for extending its platforms and accessible vertibird landing pads."

"Ah, yes. The least known Oil Rig. Back in the day, the Oil Rig control station ENCLAVE was the most known and are used of the two. Surprised the Brotherhood didn't discovered about the other..."

Amanda couldn't hold back a grin under her Liberty helmet.

"They do know about that, actually. But... They know better than piss off the Enclave this time."

She earned a short chuckle from Henry.

"Good old Enclave hatred. You got that one from the superiors before, but in my personal judgement, you're far better. At least non-hostile unless when provoked. I can only hope that the Brotherhood doesn't provoke your military focused Enclave. Oh, and uh, words spread around fast about you and your conflict with the NCR."

Amanda simply nodded.

"Yes, that is all true. However... I am here for the reason for inviting you to Freeside for a reunion with your fellow remnants. If you are interested?"

As she let her friendly manipulative tone, Amanda was so pleased to earn a nod from Henry in response.

"You had me intrigued right away. And seeing that it's been four years now, I might as well take the trip."

Amanda nodded in satisfaction.

"And I suppose you'll be heading to your bunker to meet up with the others."

"Yes I am- Wait. Arcade told you about that? Have you met Arcade?"

"Yes. He told me everything about you remnants, as for the bunker, Daisy told me. Just 107 meter of Ranger Station Foxtrot."

She earned a small nod and a response.

"Very well then. I'll go this reunion on Freeside. Oh, and if you're heading over there at the bunker to meet up, you'll need my word from the pass phrase to get into the bunker -'Friends'. Don't forget it."

"Noted, I'll be there."

And with that Amanda took off and headed out then back to the vertibird.

Headed to past Camp Golf by vertibird, Amanda had to take a foot travel on her on a small downhill before taking a more of locating a cave entry surprisingly, a wooden door was intact. Opening it, Amanda cautiously entered with her laser minigun in hands.

"The honcho on one of the Strip families got killed right in his own casino! You know he pissed off the wrong guy!"

Amanda lowered her laser minigun as the old man wearing clothed gear and had a lever action rifle aimed at her before immediately putting it away.

"Well it's about damn time, what took you- Oh..."

Amanda just stared at the man she identified as Cannibal Johnson based on Arcade's description.

"You were expecting someone, hm?"

Amanda began formally.

"Ah... I've been in the Reaper's shadow for a long time now, and I thought he'd finally show up to collect. He's just mocking me now... Sorry about that little scene I caused you."

Amanda simply waved it off and began.

"You're a marksman in the Enclave. Cannibal Johnson as Arcade mentioned me."

She earned a small nod and watched as Johnson gently stroked his white beard.

"Ah. There's a twitch in my trigger finger, I've lost my eagle eyes, and the other day, I could've sworn heard Sergeant Dorian chewing me out."

Amanda gently nodded.

"PTSD. Sounds like you need some proper treatment, Johnson."

Amanda watched as Johnson sighed shortly before slowly shaking his head.

"I'm very old and I'm starting to feel it. It's not pleasant, especially when you know your mind's slipping away. I know we all got to go sometime. But I was hoping for something a little more heroic."

Amanda gently nodded and responded.

"You can still make the most of it while you're here. Anyway, I'm here to invite you for a reunion. To Freeside. Interested?"

"I may be living on a cave, but I've hears stories. Various stories about the Enclave's payback on the NCR. And Freeside being on community lockdown. Still good in there?"

Amanda simply nodded.

"Yes. But it's more of a little favor I'm doing for Arcade. As he mentioned his father was an officer in the Enclave so many years ago, I figured doing him a small favor myself for the sake of his old man. He also wanted to see you and the remnants for a... Reunion. It's his business to say the rest."

There was a long pause before she got a response, but then came a sigh from Johnson before a reply.

"And I assume he told you about what we did hhelpingthe NCR four years ago? Though, the NCR may be a bunch of bastards, I still preferred them than the Legion... You aware of that?"

Amanda slowly nodded her head and replied.

"Yes. But as this isn't about the NCR, this is more of a reunion. A second reunion to Freeside instead of the Dam."

"Well, if that's so, then I might as well go in. It's been four years since, I've gotten much field action with my old unit..."

Amanda gave a satisfied nod. But suddenly, she was curious and asked.

"If you don't mind... Who's Sergeant Dornan?"

"Ah... He was a drill instructor I knew. He was also the meanest bastard I've ever known."

Amanda raised a brow and watched as Johnson shortly chuckled.

"I still remember... Once, he caught this private out of uniform, an old Dornan went off on the most ear-blistering rant ever known to man. It was inspiring."

"And that was during before, when Navarro was still yet overrun by the NCR, hm?"

"Err... Yeah. It was a long time ago... Things were better back then."

Amanda gave an acknowledging nod by then asked to further work her manipulation.

"I'm quite curious about your name. Are you really a 'Cannibal'?"

She watched as Johnson shortly laughed before slowly shaking his head.

"The truth of it is that I did cut a raider's heart out, but only took a bite to mess with his buddies."

Slowly nodding, Amanda asked again.

"How did it began before the aftermath?"

She watched as Johnson shortly shrugged before responding.

"They had me surrounded and I went with the first thing that came to my mind. Some ran, and the rest were just startled long enough."

"And seeing that you lived here... Have you interacted with outsiders, from before in the past years?"

"Sure do. Had a wife for a while -Tribal girl, really pretty eyes - but she's gone a long time now."

As Amanda simply gave a nod in acknowledgment, she heard Johnson continue.

"So, what's this reunion at Freeside all about then?"

"Just a little reunion for old-timers from the old decayed Enclave."

Amanda simply replied. And to see Johnson quickly raise his hands on a calming demeanor, she earned a response.

"Hey, I was just asking. No need to get uppity about it. Augh... You new folks in the Enclave that aggressive in full authority?"

Amanda simply shrugged.

"Only when provoked. Apparently, every one of my troops on all divisions are."

"Ah. You're a Commander I see... And to see you on your own taking time to visit me here just to invite me to Freeside, I'll be at the reunion, don't you worry."

Amanda gave a satisfied nod, she heard Johnson continue.

"Oh, and if Arcade forgot to mention it, there's a five-word pass phrase needed to get into the bunker. My word is 'Old' -Appropriate, huh?"

Amanda just simply nodded.

"Yeah... Very appropriate."

"You got the location of the bunker?"

"Yes."

"Alright then, I'll meet you there once I get ready."

Saying a simple farewell, Amanda left the cave and headed back to the vertibird. Two more...

The trip near the Sharecropper farms once occupied by the NCR wasn't long. After taking only, and a minute if walk from her drop zone, Amanda found a single house standing just across the dessert road.

Stepping up toward the front door, Amanda gently knocked on the door. Her metal hands clearly making quite a bit of a loud bang on the old wooden door despite her gentle knocking.

Out of impatience, Amanda decided to turn the knob and to find it unlocked, she easily managed to get inside. Only to find her way on a small living room slash bedroom and sat on an old chair, was an aged hispanic man wearing thin glasses, and clothed gear, with belts of 5.58 mm rounds strapped on his sides.

"Bah. Looks like I forgot to lock the doors again. If you're with the NCR, get out. This place is mine, and I'm not leaving."

Amanda raised a brow by the harsh response. Frowning, she decided to give a bit of respect and responded formally.

"Enclave here. Your eyes still finely working?"

"Oh, like I wouldn't believe. I can still see that insignia clearly on that fancy power armor of yours. But the NCR makes a habit of wrecking homes. I came here to get away from them -Didn't work out so well...
The next thing I know, I'm squatting in 'their' land. Never mind the fact that I'd already been living here for years."

Giving a small acknowledging nod, Amanda deiced to ask slowly.

"The NCR no longer control this area. My Enclave does. But, despite all these happenings, what do you do around on these parts?"

She met a bitter frown on the man's face before a response.

"Do? I don't do anything. I'm retired."

Amanda bitterly frowned, but trying to let herself be at calm a little, she calmly tried to her best abilities of being calm in tone.

"I was told by Arcade Gannon that you were an Enclave heavy weapons trooper."

"Yeah. Heavy weapons trooper. Nothing better than hosing down a target with an excess of bullets, and laser fire."

"How was your experience?"

"By the time I got through with things, not much was left standing. Any morons who didn't saw me coming got what they deserved."

Amanda slowly nodded before slowly asking.

"How was it back then?"

She saw a bitter frown on the man's face before a response.

"Back then, it was war. If we'd been on the winning side, I'd be called a hero."

"And you were proud of it, hm?"

"I was a soldier. Why do you even care? But I came out here to forget about the past, so quit bringing it up."

Amanda mentally cursed. Wow... This old man is quite a stubborn one...

"I was hoping to invite you to Freeside. Where Arcade is. He wishes for a reunion with all of you remnants."

Despite the bitter frown on Moreno's face, Amanda impatiently waited for a response, but to hear Arcades' name, she watched as he slowly sighed before finally giving a response.

"Arcade. Been a while. Fours years, I think? Yeah... That's probably about it since that reunion I got talked into helping the NCR... I still couldn't believed that Courier managed to talk me into it... And despite our efforts helping them defend the Dam from the Legion, the NCR still want me out of my own house."

"That's not the point. I'm not looking into recruiting old expendables. I have so many soldiers at disposal anyway. But unlike the Courier convincing you to go to the bunker for some suicide mission, I'm here to simply just invite you to Freeside for a simple reunion with the other remnants requested by Arcade. He cares about each of you. He even wants to repay you all for you've done for him over the years in his age as a kid. Don't you want to give him a chance to return you all the favor?

There was a long pause. But to see Moreno still frowning, Amanda sighed, almost irritatingly.

"Look. You in or not?"

Guess she couldn't keep her temper in control...

"You talk to every senior citizen like that? Your superiors ever gave you disciplinary actions or what-"

"I am the superior. The very top brass. You gonna go to Freeside or not?"

Amanda tried her very best to remain calm and formal, but didn't seem to work out by her temper...

To her slight surprise, Moreno just looked up at her with a slightly convinced expression.

"You're doing quite fine convincing me. Really. But I'll ask you -What's this all about If not, helping any side here in Mojave?"

Amanda took a short pause in silence. Perhaps telling the truth wouldn't be wrong, if it means, she'll be done with Moreno.

"For Resettlement. Everywhere is currently not being stable with enlarged NCR patrols, and Enclave front exchanging gunfire. Locals are advised to stay in doors, while others like yourself, are to be relocated to a much more secured area. Freeside is the best option."

"Is that right? The million dollar question is, why there on Freeside? Other than Arcade lives there."

Amanda frowned.

"You can thank the NCR on that one -Wait. I forgot this isn't about the NCR. Is it?"

"No. It's about you and your old comrades resettling at Freeside. Arcade wishes to have you all there for resettling under his care."

"Ah. Little Arcade. Well... If you put that way. Alright... But I'm still regretting helping the NCR. They've caused me too much grief."

Amanda simply nodded before responding plainly.

"I have troops mopping down the NCR. From California, we wiped them out there, all that's left is General Oliver and his men at Camp McCarran."

She earned a small nod and a small grin.

"Ah. The NCR... I wouldn't mind cutting down a few platoons of NCR troopers with my old Gatling laser."

Amanda just simply smirked before replying.

"If you can still carry some weight."

"I'm old, but not much when I'm on my old power armor. But all right then. You got me convinced. I'll show up at this gathering of yours to resettle at Freeside with the others. It might be good to see the others again -Johnson still excluded."

Amanda gave a satisfied nod.

"Just keep your trigger finger away from the trigger if you encounter any NCR patrols to your bunker. Reports stated enlarged numbers patrols minor parts of Mojave."

"Oh, all right. But depending on the situation I may end up on, I might not keep a word about it. Keep that in mind. And since you already know about the bunker, there's a pass needed to get into the bunker -My part is 'Remember'."

"Acknowledged."

And with that Amanda left the house and headed back to her vertibird. Only Westside left on the list.

Rather, another easy trip by vertibird, Amanda decided to outside when reaching Westside.

Like usual, settlers around as she walked by gave either greeted her with a nod and silent treatment. She wasn't sure how the people think of the Enclave, or what they think of the Enclave.

Despite the reality of slaughtering NCR on the field and imprisoning soldiers, she kind of wanted show the people how they deal with the NCR. The harsh truth of reality was better than having these people think they're actually being saved from the Bear. Was it better to tell the truth or let the lies remain? Amanda knew there were people who already know the truth about the Enclave's purpose, intentions and motives for their endless fighting against the decreasing NCR numbers. But despite every act of mass killings, she didn't seem to get any negatives from the locals. She never knew what people really want, but she wasn't about to understand it either.

The Minutemen will take over Vegas visually anyway. The Enclave's just being the secret guide managing the control. Only then... She hated the idea of them being the Government. She never liked the ideal of it for the Enclave other than it's military. Perhaps, establishing a government for Vegas and California would he a fine tactic. It was only fair.

As she erased the thought on her mind, Amanda decided to ask one of the settlers.

"Excuse me. Do you know Judah Kreger?"

The settler nodded and responded.

"Just take a right, and down the street, you'll see people playing chess on the sidewalk. He's usually there playing."

Giving a crisp nod, Amanda took the given directions.

But as she stumbled upon a crossroad, Amanda found two men okaying chess on the sidewalk.

Wasting no time, she put away her laser minigun and formally walked up to the men.

"Excuse me. Does any of you know Judah Kreger?"

To see one with a red cap turning his head to look up at her, she wanted a small nod and a response.

"That's me. But, you don't strike me a someone down with their luck. What brings you to Westside?"

"I'm here to meet you, as well give you an invitation to Freeside for a reunion with your fellow remnants from Navarro."

She earned a surprised look from Judah, then a small nod.

"Is this about the NCR again? Sorry, ma'am. But I'm not sure if I could still keep up on the field with your soldiers today. Yeah, I know about your whole conflict with the NCR, but concerning the safety of people not involved, I can only hope you're planning on setting aside harmless civilians..."

Amanda frowned but the replied.

"I've got plans prepared. But what I'm really here for is to invite you to Freeside."

"Ah... Well, it's been four years since, I've seen the others again. I'll never know when might be the last, so, I might as well-head over there. But what's the reason for this gathering?"

Amanda just simply replied with a frown.

"Resettlement. That's the whole point to this. Arcade wishes for you and the others to relocate to Freeside for resettling. I can see his point with all this happening."

There was a long pause before she could even receive a response.

"Well, I can see that clearly... But your invitation for Freeside, sure I'll head over there."

Amanda nodded. This one was easy... But then she decided to ask to know a bit more about the old man.

"As a retired vet, what do you do around here?"

She watched as Judah shortly shrugged before responding.

"I help tend the crops, stand watch for Fiends, and generally help keep things civilized."

"I see. What else have you been doing over the past years?"

"It's been quite some years now. I was a trader for a while, but got tired of all the Walking. Westside was good place to settle down as any."

"You must've went through a lot. back in those years."

"Well, yeah. But assuming our equipment cache is intact, my squad would have the edge in armor and firepower."

There was a pause. Amanda figured Judah has something more to say as she decided to wait.

"It must be terrible out here, if Arcade told you to get us. You met Arcade Gannon?"

Amanda simply nodded.

"And he told me everything about himself, you, and the others."

"Ah. Well I hope you weren't thinking the idea of recruiting a bunch of old warhorses in the first place. Your job is no longer the job for a bunch of graybeards, or grayheads, in Whitman's case."

Amanda just simply nodded and responded.

"I met her firstly. She's alright. But like her and the others, you have a pass phrase to get into your bunker. Daisy's were 'Dear' Henry's 'Friends' Johnson's 'Old' and Moreno's 'Remember'."

She watched as Judah smiled and nodded.

"Seeing that your Enclave has everything under control, I guess there won't be a problem for us old-timers sticking up on Freeside for resettling. Especially if things get too hot, words has it that you've got the large settlement protected like the others, so all right. I'll go to this reunion."

Amanda gave an acknowledging nod.

"To think... You've helped defend the Dam, I assume you just swooped in guns drawn and blazing down the open target?"

She earned a nod with Judah shortly laughing.

"Ah, I still remember that. But I'm quite impressed with your tactic. Words around passed by about Camp Willows and mostly HELIOS One being rained down on mini nukes. Not a single NCR personnel ever made it out. Was that all right?"

Amanda just simply nodded.

"It's just as easy as wiping out those pesky parasites. The people don't need a Bear consuming whatever people work hard for to earn for themselves."

She earned a small respective nod.

"I can see your point in that, despite being neutrally chaotic you are and the Enclave. But all right. I'm in. I'll head on to the bunker.

Oh, and since you already know all the pass phrases of the others, you'll need my part of the pass phrase to get into the bunker -'Navarro'."

"Acknowledged."

"All right. I'll meet you there and the others, I'll just get some of my old stuff packed."

Nodding, Amanda headed back to her vertibird. Shit... Now she's on the urge to get back to her outpost already. But not right now... When she hasn't ensured the safety of the remnants arriving to Freeside. But now, was to head over to Camp Forlorn Hope to gather some AIs for pilots and two more personnel as a small escort.

The trip for a while was quite boring, but immediately as she field out of the vertibird, Amanda gathered four AIs before addressing them to the vertibird.

But just she was about to head over as well, she heard a voice from behind.

"Commander! We got a problem!"

Frowning, Amanda turning around to see Chuck jogging up to her before continuing.

"We've received a transmission from California about-"

"That can wait, Chuck. Not right now. I'm on a little important matter to finish."

"Is there something wrong, Commander?"

Amanda bitterly frowned before sighing.

"No. Not at all. I'm just evacuating some VIPs."

She watched as Chuck raised an eyebrow.

"I didn't know we have evacuation operations."

"No. This is about old veterans from Navarro. Integrated into the NCR, as civilians. Long story. But I'll be back to hear about your report from California."

She saw Chuck's face clearly wanting to say something, but with her impatient, brash tone, she wanted a small nod from him instead.

"I'll get some preparations for the repair once their package arrived. Full report shall be given to you when you get back, Commander."

Amanda simply nodded before heading back to her vertibird now boarded along with armed AIs.

As another time was spent on flying over to the Bunker just near Ranger Station Foxtrot, Amanda travelled on foot with her AIs after being dropped just fifteen meters outside the bunker.

Stopping in the front metal door, there was a small intercom.

Pressing a small butting in it, there came Judah's voice through it.

"What's the pass phrase?"

Amanda was given all the pass phrases. Though, she could just say either of the words, but as she quickly pieced it all together, Amanda cleared her throat and responded with a full response.

"Dear Old Friends Remember Navarro."

"Access granted."

With the door opening, Amanda led her AIs and as they got inside under the surface, they met Judah with a greeting nod while standing in front if a larger metal door.

"I see you've brought some body guards."

Amanda just nodded before responding.

"More of escort. The other two are pilots for your vertibird."

Amanda simply said as she turned her head over to an old vertibird still bearing the Enclave insignia. Then her eyes met the sight of a five power armor, known as the Advanced power armor mark I got the Enclave.

"I see you've still kept your gear perfectly in shape throughout the years."

She earned a small nod and a smile from Judah.

"Those were the mostly known power armor for the Enclave back in my day. Though, your mens' resemble quite a bit. Post-war?"

Amanda slowly shook her head.

"Our oldest archives about the Enclave's power armor was that these worn by my men are pre-war. Though only limited in production, it was only issue to presidential body guards. We kept the blueprints from the earliest records about the X01 suits of power armor. But as we don't need much of recruiting, we use the X01 as our basic backbone of the army. Powered by modified AI module chips, these X01s in front of you are basically automated suits of power armor. Inaccessible as well while online function, but the most brutal killers of all on my army."

She earned an acknowledging nod.

"And what of your human personnel?"

Amanda simply replied.

"We issued our human personnel with the X02 suits of power armor. Then just recently as reported, our non-feral ghoul personnel were issued with the X03 Hellfire power armor. All Enclave power armor, pre-war to post apocalypse."

"It's nice to know that you're recruiting to further increase your ranks, and non-ferals, too."

Amanda frowned shortly before responding.

"I was opposed to the idea at first, but after reports of loyal and skilled non-ferals further improving the ranks and name of our branch on the east coast, Boston, I've had recruitment process in continuation."

Turning to Judah, Amanda decided to ask.

"Can you tell me about this bunker? I don't remember any of our archives stating about this one..."

She earned a nod before a response.

"This was a minor refueling station for vertibirds. It seemed an appropriate place to stash our equipment if we ever needed. Honestly, I'm actually surprised this place hasn't fallen apart. When I put it into standby mode, I expected to return to it within a few years, not decades."

Amanda nodded in acknowledgment then replied.

"Good to know. Now, let's get you and your fellow remnants settled. I'll have you brought by your vertibird piloted by my AIs with me and the others on ours escorting you."

She earned a nod.

"Judging by your tone, I'll have to agree with you on the escort. Word has it, that NCR vertibirds were seen flying by around settlements and cities alike. Best we do have backup."

Amanda just nodded, then a small grin came to her face under her helmet.

"They won't be much of a problem any more soon. Once I get all of my dues collected, I'll have things prepared."

She watched as Judah raised an eyebrow.

"I don't like the sound of that... But so long as people harmless enough are set aside, thing's should be fine at least. But... What do you plan after getting me and the others to Freeside?"

Amanda simply grinned.

"Winning this second wave of the Resource Wars. Then wiping out the NCR."

---

Mhm... Good old Amanda still as cold as ever. And I can't decided who's the coldest. Her or the synth...

Response to recent review: The Brotherhood clearly mean nothing in this story, to be honest. But not intending to be biased, they're just rather treated as a minor power like the USAF, under Amanda's perspective. Though, regarding Amanda and Piper... Believe me or not, I can't even figure how to predict Amanda's outlook towards Piper myself. Not bluffing. But only time will tell as the story progresses on.

Minutemen being an Enclave front? I wouldn't put it that way... Safe to call it as business partners, if speaking like pre war. And then Lost Hills bunker? Arthur Maxson should definitely shit bricks. But I can't tell how things are going with California as I intend to focus more on New Vegas.

Amanda's idea of the Midwestern Brotherhood of Steel under the Enclave? Again. Arthur Maxson should definitely shit bricks...

As for Patriot. I can't blame him if he wants to reconnect with Amanda. Not especially blaming him if his outlook may change, too.

Soldiers are bound to carry loyalty to their Commanders to their grave after all.

But hey, these are just my opinion on this response (non spoiler) and it's still up to you readers on how you see this story on your perspectives

ripntear