Conclusion to the previous chapter, then the full continuation.
Put on your war paint.
Song used
"The Phoenix" by Fall Out Boy
-The Resource Wars II: Midwestern Steel-
"Thanks for doing this. Getting them all back together, but rather permanently this time."
Amanda just vaguely nodded at Arcade.
"This is only once I'm doing a favor here on New Vegas. There won't be any second."
She earned a small nod.
"I still don't know how this is all going to shake out in the end, but at least they're safer here than out there. And with the Enclave still doing more damages against the NCR, I can only hope you could spare those that don't really have much involvement. Soldier or not. Please spare them. They're just like the Remnants. Misguided..."
Amanda frowned bitterly under her helmet. Fat fucking chance.
"I don't keep promises. Or any word, so be content about the words you hear about those that we imprisoned. Sparing in the middle of the battle is a ridiculous act. We're not noble."
Amanda just stared down at Arcade as he deeply sighed.
"I understand. But still. I'm grateful. You managed to bring them all here. I can never ask for anything else other than that."
Amanda simply nodded. Glancing at the old remnants being given medical checkups, she focused back on Arcade.
"Freeside is given a guaranteed protection. If any NCR patrol ever pass by... Ignore the plasma gunfire. That would be my men keeping Freeside safe. Consider this, as an early heads-up."
She earned a small nod.
"So, you're parting ways I suppose?"
Amanda simply nodded.
"I don't belong on settlements. I belong in the field giving orders and making strategies."
Amanda simply said. But it was just a brief moment before she finally turned her back on Arcade. She's done some good, now was to do some bad...
Back to business.
Walking away and back to her vertibird, Amanda was first on board before her four AIs and were all transported back to Camp Forlorn Hope.
The status against the NCR and it's annexation was still on a little progress. But with little to an amount of time to spare, she can still focus on other things to further make use of her time. If only that Aircraft Carrier wasn't taking so long due to resources... Perhaps she'll just focus on the other while the Carrier waits in its progress.
Arriving back at their outpost, Amanda immediately parted ways and headed over to the briefing tent, but not before having a soldier summon Chuck.
As she entered the tent, Amanda hopped out of her Liberty power armor before taking a seat in a take in front of a table. Luckily, her impatience didn't have to worsen as Chuck Immediately arrive with a folder in hand. But for some reason, he wore a nervous expression.
"Chuck."
Amanda simply began, and to see Chuck nodding in return, he placed a folder on the table before responding.
"That's the full report on California, Commander. It's not only about the Brotherhood of Steel, if you're wondering. It's more about... Our package transported from California. Our Outcast branch there reported of..."
Amanda raised a brow as she read the files on the folder. Her head-turning back up to Chuck to continue.
"It's Patriot, Commander. But, there wasn't any explanation how he wounded up on California with six vertibirds. But as he arrived just four hours ago, before you even returned, we had our technicians immediately working on him. He's severely critical in condition, Commander."
Amanda closed the folder. Inhaling deep and nodding very slowly, she slowly replied.
"I will read the full report later. But take me to Patriot."
Seeing Chuck nodding, Amanda didn't bother hopping back on her power armor and walked along with the Outcast Captain on the way to a larger tent serving as the maintenance area for power armor.
Out of sight were twenty AIs on advanced power armors, being reissued with X01 parts. On the far end of the tent was Patriot's worse X01 frame laying on a table while being repaired by technicians.
Amanda's eyes closed for a moment. Her fists clenched tightly before inhaling deep... This was just an AI. But this AI was the most loyal to her... Seeing Patriot like this somehow reminded her on how it feels to be hurt to see someone she cared for her hurt... Wait... She cared for Patriot? Huh...
"Whatever may have happened to him, he's very lucky he pulled through, Commander. But it's till unclear what did that to him..."
Hearing Chuck slowly said next to her, Amanda slowly approached in with Chuck in tow.
Dismissing the technicians shortly, Amanda looked down at Patriot's broken, dented X01 head. His tints no longer intact.
Shit. Was she really going to be human now? In the middle of all this? Amanda inhaled deep. She then bitterly frowned. It was her fault for leaving. Now her Enclave at the Commonwealth had almost been compromised. And Patriot, at this state.
"Patriot..."
Amanda quietly began. She was surprised when the head slowly turned to her.
"Commander... I failed you... I couldn't kill the synth-"
"Don't."
She immediately cut him off. Then glared at the AI.
"Why did you do this? I gave you an order."
She bitterly added.
"Forgive me, Commander. But... The synth, Colonel Amani... She's... Ruined our Enclave with her Enclave. But, I've managed to fix the situation... Its- It's stable now when I left... But I failed you. She's still alive-"
"That's not the point!"
She snapped bitterly.
"You should've just stayed back in the Commonwealth!"
"Commander..."
Amanda turned her head over to Chuck who calmly began.
"Let's not get that temper of yours get in control, Commander. Patriot's here now. He's the second in command after all. I trust he's got a very good reason he's here."
Amanda glared at Chuck who remained calmly stating down at her then back at Patriot.
He was right. Amanda hated that.
But to see Patriot and his critically damaged frame, Amanda felt guilty. Deep down she ended up blaming herself for leaving the Enclave only to Patriot. She's given him such a huge responsibility just, so she could fulfill her coldest plots in the west coast. Then this shit happen. It's clearly her fault alright... Amanda hated that.
"I'm sorry... It was my fault... I shouldn't have left you like that..."
She swallowed hard at her own words. Again. Was this the time to be human? She's at war... But part of her made her feel terrible seeing her favorite AI all limped as if he's about to die any second now.
She didn't get a response. Instead, Amanda just waited as Patriot quietly stared at her. Like her, Patriot was quite unpredictable... She could barely predict what the AI usually had in his programmed mind when they started the Enclave together. Even now, she couldn't predict why the AI had to do it. Out of the sense of loyalty to her? Or the Enclave? Both? But he didn't have to confront the synth... Keeping the Enclave in the Commonwealth maintained was enough. Though, she didn't care about the USAF. Amanda cared only about her Enclave division there... They're under her name. Part of her own. To think... It wasn't Patriot who failed on this one. He was only doing what his programmed thoughts made him think was right. He only did his role in the Enclave.
It was her fault in reality why all the shit in the Enclave happened. Compromised, the synth, the temporary alliance that she feared, and Patriot being critically damaged.
Amanda continued to wait. Rather... Patiently...
"Patriot... Talk to me."
Here were some sounds of small sparking under the broken frame. It thankfully, she wanted a response.
"I could have stopped the synth... But she knew, I was coming after -After her... I -I had thought I killed her. But I was only forced on stasis lock. And then she brought me to DC, Commander. At Adam's Air Force base... She's -She's gathered her soldiers there..."
"You don't have to say anything further. I know about the Commonwealth on my absence... But... I assure you, Patriot. We will go after her and the Enclave under her."
Amanda slowly said, but slowly frowning, she just had to add.
"Though, I hated that agreed on an alliance with the USAF and Maxson's Brotherhood, I can understand you only did what needs to done."
"It -It was necessary, Commander... I had no choice. After all... We were all fighting the Wanderer all for the Commonwealth."
Amanda raised a brow.
"For the Commonwealth? I see... The USAF has influenced you..."
"Not -Not one bit, Commander. I only had to see it the right way..."
Amanda slowly nodded. She can't blame him, but she only smiled gently.
"I'm just glad you're safe."
"Thank you, Commander... But I wish to serve you again. Here."
Amanda raised a brow.
"What about our divisions in the Commonwealth?"
There was a pause. Amanda just sighed before adding.
"You can tell me, Patriot. I will understand your word."
"I trust the field commanders. They will watch over our divisions. But I am worried more about you and the rest out here -Here fighting."
"You don't have to worry, Patriot. Everything is under control. But for your condition to get better, I would suggest you remain here for further repair. You could use some R&R."
"But... The NCR... Commander?"
Amanda slowly sighed before slowly replying.
"They're already being taken care off. You will be briefed with everything once you are in stable condition, Patriot."
She earned very slight nod in response. Amanda gently smiled and slowly added.
"You've done me proud."
But she didn't get a response. She couldn't tell if Patriot was still conscious... On stasis lock perhaps?
She sighed. Closing her eyes shortly, Amanda cleared her throat before slowly adding.
"You deserve better."
As she moved past Chuck, Amanda grabbed one of the spare X01 shoulder pads along with a small paint brush before dipping it on white paint.
There, she began painting a small mark of rank on the shoulder pad.
Turning her head to Chuck who only nodded at her, Amanda nodded back before placing the X01 shoulder pad on the table next to Patriot. With a freshly painted rank, marking a visible white star. Rank of Brigadier General.
As she let the technicians take over to continue working on Patriot, Amanda turned to Chuck who slowly began.
"We've managed to get backup recorded playback from Patriot, Commandeer. The holotape transfer shall be done anytime soon."
Amanda just slightly nodded.
"I'll be in my office reading the full report."
She simply said and earning a nod from Chuck.
As she walked on to her tent, Amanda sat in front of her small desk bedded opening the folder handed to her earlier.
-CALIFORNIA MINUTEMEN BRANCH, DIVISION 1-
Date: September 18
Year: 2287
To: Commander Amanda Amani
Our recent encounters with raider bands seemed to have lessened, further advances for Minutemen strategic points are encouraged. Liberated NCR camps and outpost alike are now operational as Minutemen territory, while settlements are still encouraged to be prioritized for safe keeping civilians.
Instructions received regarding about the Brotherhood of Steel here on California are going accorded in line. Keeping the Brotherhood on Lost Hills out of the way of operations is, stable.
Recent reports are Outcast and Brotherhood tension regarding the protection of our technology. Non Minutemen business, we will not interfere militarily -Unless given authority.
-Major. Basco Davis
-CALIFORNIA MINUTEMEN BRANCH, DIVISION 1-
Date: September 19
Year: 2287
To: Commander Amanda Amani
Settlements are well-organized, and protected by our forces. But regarding another Brotherhood issue was a presence on one of our territories questioningly in demand for information about the possession of such technology only used by the Enclave and Outcast supervising our Minutemen operations.
We have no authority to leak any information about our technology. But concerning their High Elders, we had been trespassed back, and for the last three days for the possession of much superior technology. Though, the Minutemen does not need to possess as such advanced tech, the High Elders are aware of our two-sided alliance.
Field commanders had been initiating joint meetings discussing the Lost Hills bunker for a peace talk. But concerning their ignorance about the Outcast history with the Brotherhood, they will not seem to be keen on the latter to listen.
-Major. Basco Davis
-CALIFORNIA MINUTEMEN BRANCH, DIVISION 1-
Date: September 20
Year: 2287
To: Commander Amanda Amani
Brotherhood patrols began to appear on major settlements here on California. There was also news about a small detachments trying to gain control over the settlers on the city of Arroyo as well. As we currently know, Arroyo at Oregon is not a unified part of the west coast along with Idaho. Minutemen detachments had been sent to assess the situation at the city of Arroyo. Non-violent acts was advised to our troops, unless the needs of self defense from the said Brotherhood detachment.
And regarding the Outcast and Brotherhood tension, the Enclave's technology is what the Brotherhood are questionably after for. As bought information stated, we again tried to initiate a piece talk with the High Elders, but are sternly declined.
Shall we explain our military alliance and intentions, or shall we let the Outcast pull a string?
We await your reply, Commander.
-Major. Basco Davis
-CALIFORNIA MINUTEMEN BRANCH, DIVISION 1-
Date: September 22
Year: 2287
To: Commander Amanda Amani
We did it, Commander. We managed to convince them into a neutral stalemate by a peace talk. However, they've contacted their active chapters, including their newest one in the Commonwealth about the situation regarding 'Enclave technology'.
As illogical as it sounds, it is very clear that they just want your technology. But in assurance, we have Outcast and Enclave detachments set up shop on the west, east, and north of Lost Hills for close surveillance, while our 2nd division is currently stationed on south, we technically have Lost Hills bunker surrounded just in case if they ever try anything oppressive.
-Major. Basco Davis
Amanda mentally cursed after reading the full report from California. But then again... The Brotherhood of Steel is vulnerable to her. With their chapters easily spread across the wasteland, they would be easy to pick off. But not unless they do try anything.
Seeing one more paper on the folder, Amanda raised a brow and decided to finish reading the report file.
-CALIFORNIA MINUTEMEN BRANCH, DIVISION 1-
Date: September 23
Year: 2287
To: Commander Amanda Amani
Our division received a package from the Capital Wasteland. With no further explanation why second in command Patriot was transported by one of the six Enclave vertibirds along with twenty AI personnel.
Our technicians did the very best we could, but with the need of more superior equipment, and better materials, we had Patriot given some minor repairs before sending him and the other AIs there to Camp Forlorn Hope at New Vegas. Contacting Captain Finley of the Outcast there, we have a minor explanation based on what Patriot only explained to us.
It is about the Enclave. Rouge perhaps? Or another Enclave, as he stated a Synth with your name under the rank of Colonel as well as claiming the Adam's Air Force base as the Capital.
-Major. Basco Davis
Amanda let out a deep sigh. But concerning Patriot's condition more than her synth double, it was still surprising for her to think it that way... Perhaps, this is just what being human does to an individual like her... If she's still even human...
Decide to close the folder and leaving it on her desk, Amanda stood up and walked out of her tent.
As she had gone to get her Liberty power armor, Amanda went over to a vertibird before flying to Navarro.
Upon arrival, Amanda immediately headed to talk to the technicians still busy on the reconstruction of the massive parts.
"How is the progress?"
Amanda immediately questioned as she gained attention.
"We are on a bit of an edge, Commander... Our metals are starting to run dry. Though metal would be very useful to add on melting for parts, but the fact that we've only had a supply of 10% for the maintenance of our progress reconstructing the Carrier. The deliveries from Illinois is still."
Amanda slowly nodded and responded.
"I will see to it on Vault 0. Once I get there, I'll have all the required resources needed for the Carrier delivered to Navarro."
"Oh, and speaking of the Carrier. Plans had been finally finished for redesign. We will rush the project as you ordered once the required and necessary and required parts as such."
Amanda gave a satisfied nod.
As she took one long stare at the sight of a large platform still separated from the main part of the Carrier on the extended area of Navarro. It would definitely be a sight to see it once done... Amanda liked that.
As she immediately flew back to Camp Forlorn Hope by vertibird, she met up with Chuck who immediately began.
"We've got the recorded playback from Patriot-"
"That would have to wait, Chuck. We need to head to Vault 0 now. Our resources for the Carrier is starting gate to dry out."
She earned a surprised look before a slow nod.
"Yes, Commander. But as for Vault 0, we are still keeping it secured-"
"Securing it can progress while we extract the resources to Navarro."
She paused as the other thought on the back of her mind came to play.
"Once we gather all the required resources, we will proceed to the Midwest and initiate a peace talk. Though, I'm no peaceful type, I can make an adjustment myself... But speaking of which, how is the Missouri?"
She turns to Chuck who slowly sighed before responding.
"Missouri is hell, Commander. Filled with raiders, but ever since I've got our detachments of Outcast set foot there recently, reports started coming up about local areas being secured, and we've got two locations about the Brotherhood there. Unfortunately, their branches must've clearly dissolved as no signs on other parts of the Midwest had given us visual of any Brotherhood presence. It's safe to assume that they're down to either last two branches, or had been decided into two sides to make a last standing out on Missouri."
"You never cease to amaze me about your performance, Chuck. Keep it up. There might be an opening for the rank of Major soon."
She earned a nod from Chuck as they got on board an Enclave vertibird.
"Just doing my job, Commander. Speaking of job, what have you planned in mind for the Midwestern?"
Amanda took a short moment before responding.
"It's quite a lonely right about having only the Outcast as a black operations division of the Enclave. Even if we have the Minutemen under our control in our alliance, we would still need our very own side of another division, reflecting ideals similar to the Minutemen."
Amanda paused, then frowned under her helmet before continuing.
"We're not noble. We're just doing this to ensure the Enclave doesn't get the bad reputation in image. But we would still pit them in the role of soldiers, with an ideal of maintaining order, peace and freedom. Again. We're not nobles on the Enclave. But we need people doing the good things on behalf of our name."
She paused shortly. Then came a slow continue.
"Back in the pre-war... We have an organization keeping the peace in order. We called it the United Nations, or the UN. Unfortunately, it fell to the ground right before the first Resource Wars even took place due to the scarcity of oil. I wish to revive the United Nations, understand the image of the Midwestern Brotherhood of Steel. We're not noble, but here's to hoping that they'd work well finely with the Minutemen. You on the right, as Outcast division, will do the same thing you best under the shadows."
She earned a very slow before responding.
"We need to ensure that the Aircraft Carrier is finished.. I can't help but think about the prioritization of that project. To think.. It would definitely benefit the Enclave to have a Carrier supplying Oil, while out in the air, as well as a vertibird stop, of course. But other that, is that we can have war vessel easily able to deliver more troops, AIs and vertibirds on the front."
Amanda paused, before continuing.
"I have no doubt, there could still be more Carriers out there. Knowing the Navy on the last days of the pre-war, they were all stationed nearby naval bases, in case of the Chinese sending military fronts after the battle of Anchorage."
She stopped, and to see Chuck looking at her curiously, Amanda shortly frowned under her helmet before continuing.
"We can still send expedition crews for more parts once we finally have our Aircraft Carrier finished on reconstruction. Or... In other words. We can try to reconstruct another in the future if there are still more Carriers in good condition. We just got lucky that our Carrier was still salvageable."
"Well, perhaps that one Carrier should be enough. Though, I can't help but imagine the Midwest. People must've really suffered worse during the days of the Calculators' reign. But to have the Brotherhood of Steel on our side, we'll definitely get more advantage in control. Not only that. We would also have increased numbers."
Amanda just gave a nod and a simple reply.
"'Control is nothing to worry of. Even our increase in soldiers. What we needn't focus on us gathering all the resources we need."
She earned a small nod from Chuck.
Amanda took a long pause before slowly looking down outside as the vertibird flew them to Cheyenne Mountain.
"No wonder why our non AI personnel are so adapted... It if I may... It wasn't a coincidence, right? When we picked up the transmission from Alaska, our training regimes suddenly changed."
Amanda didn't looked back at Chuck. But gave a simple response.
"It's no coincidence. I had the scientists there to transfer all Enclave records about the foreign militaries from the very oldest archives. As for the members on the bunker, we know their numbers are quite average despite being hunkered underneath nuclear winter, but they were only there to survive after the fall of the other major chapters. The divisions back at the Commonwealth will soon be affected by the changes in training regime."
Amanda paused and sighed shortly, then turned back to Chuck.
"They really need to rethink the election for General. Perhaps, give it time. They need to digest their quick decision. And you don't suppose it's too soon that we have a General? We haven't accomplished anything that great for the Enclave, Chuck."
She watched as Chuck slowly looked down with a shrug before a response.
"I'm sure they'll overcome the changes, Commander. After all, they said they've been off the line since the CONTROL station Enclave Oil Rig blew up. A long time spent without any command definitely triggers their need for a new chain of command the longer it takes."
Amanda just took a moment in thought after the response.
Being a General may definitely be a better rank to use to better handle her soldiers. They're not getting any smaller now that they gained even more recruits, not only from the west coast, but from the Commonwealth's as well. Hell, she was concerned about that temporary alliance her divisions has with the USAF and Maxson's Brotherhood of Steel. As alarming as it may be... She has no choice, but to cease that alliance in the Commonwealth. She will not risk the relations of the two other sides there to be used as a way for trading tech and weaponry -Those being Enclave produced tech and weaponry...
What belongs to the Enclave, stays with the Enclave.
"Commander. Something bothering you, Ma'am?"
Hearing Chuck ask, Amanda mentally sighed before responding.
"I'm just thinking about that temporary alliance with the USAF and the Brotherhood of Steel in the Commonwealth. I don't like the idea of the relations to be used as a way for our divisions there to exchange our tech, weaponry and equipment. That's what we even valued on the first place why we headed out here on the west coast. To protect what's ours. And thinking about the Commonwealth divisions unsupervised by a highly ranked official, it may end in high stakes. I don't want either USAF or Maxson's Brotherhood of Steel sharing what scraps there be on Enclave's property. I just couldn't help but feel it... I may need to return to the Commonwealth once I'm dealt with the NCR and done on Appalachia."
She earned a nod from Chuck before a response.
"Elder Maxson prioritizes technology. Pre-war technology that can be preserved. But on the other, confiscates those that pose potential danger."
Amanda bitterly frowned. Of course, Chuck was right.
"At least we have Lost Hills by their necks. If Maxson tries anything on our divisions in the Commonwealth. We know what to do to Lost Hills. But unless he does try anything on the airbase and the Castle divisions, we will let Lost Hills see their next days."
"Well said, Commander. But what about our Carrier when it's finally finished?"
Amanda slightly raised a brow before responding.
"As simply said. Well use it to haul more vertibirds, personnel, etc."
She paused, then turned to Chuck intently with a serious expression under her helmet before continuing.
"We will have to advise the Minutemen to keep up on their peace talk with Lost Hills. We want our property back. And I'm certainly sure that the Brotherhood had most of it from Navarro. As for the NCR with our property that being vertibird schematics -And their vertibirds... We will take it all back by force."
Amanda watched as Chuck sighed before responding.
"Yep. So, it's now confirmed. That this is actually pay back, why we chased the NCR all the way out here on New Vegas just to kill every last one of them other than protecting our Oil Rig. So, we're doing this for the poor locals they robbed of freedom, or just forgot back and to reclaim what they robbed from our ancestors?"
Amanda frowned before folding her arms.
"Second option. I hate to admit the ancestors part, but it's only fair. What's ours is ours. They have no rights to take it from us. As for all the treasury that we've recovered from the NCR at California, we handed them over to the Minutemen there to give back to the people the NCR robbed by their abused taxing."
"Ah. Okay then, Commander. So clearly, we're both half good and half bad guys. Seems fair enough, I got no complains."
"Dammit Chuck can we just end this topic? I don't want to talk about locals."
Amanda glared at the aged Outcast Captain before earning a simple reply.
"Alright, alright. No need to explode like a nuke, Commander. But really though. I appreciate your efforts minimizing NCR casualties. The locals really like what you're doing. Imprisoning those who surrenders, hell, you even spared a few NCR platoon captains. I think we're on the right track for a 'normal' army ourselves."
Amanda just deeply sighed with a bitter frown. Still. She disliked that.
"None of it means anything to me. But our property in the Enclave. One maniac at a time, we will take it all back."
"By force, Commander?"
Amanda looked at Chuck seriously.
"By force."
The whole flight to Cheyenne Mountain had directly led them to the location of a small vertibird atop set up by Outcast personnel.
At the very end just north from the vertibird stop, was a large, opened door. It wasn't like the same gear door that the Vaults usually has, but the scribbled logo on the wall clearly said it as Vault Tec. On the far end after entering was the sight of various Enclave and Outcast personnel alike, all reorganizing the large Vault. Obviously military, with the sight of various vertibirds, military grade technology and such. It didn't look much like a Vault Tec experimental Vault. Much like an enormous underground military compound. It was the perfect spot to use as the Enclave's very own military compound...
"I'm glad the reorganizing is in well progress. But I'll be back shortly to inform the others about the parts required at Navarro, Commander."
Amanda just slightly nodded before taking her separate way.
Walking across a large area, she saw various terminals all sorts technology that the Brotherhood of Steel would likely want to have...
Over to her far right below platform bridges were more vertibirds.
Turning over to her far left, were various munitions being carried in metal crates.
Amanda decided to walk stop the stairs connected to the platforms and stood atop for a moment, watching the sight of a large space filled with vertibirds, solders and all military resources she would need. These are definitely Enclave's property now.
A grin crept on her face under her helmet as she saw some soldiers placing pre-war flags bearing the Enclave's insignia on the walls.
"Commander."
Turning around, Amanda gave a nod to an Outcast soldier.
"Captain Chuck is addressing some of our troops for delivering parts to Navarro."
"Good. What else?"
"We've also received a message from our teams on Missouri. Eldon and West Aurora are confirmed Brotherhood of Steel outposts. And as for good news, they agreed to set up a meeting on their outpost at Eldon. Will I inform them if your arrival there, Ma'am?"
Amanda gave a small yet satisfied nod.
"Yes. The sooner we get a peace talk done, the better. The Brotherhood of Steel would definitely be a potential addition to the Enclave's ranks..."
"Speaking of the Brotherhood of Steel, we've decided to establish a private Outcast frequency with them on their outpost at Eldon and West Aurora on Missouri, Commander."
Amanda simply gave a nod.
"Well done, Sergeant.. I'll be heading to Missouri. And tell all here personnel that once Vault 0 is done reorganizing, make it fully operational immediately, and establish all private frequencies to all divisions that we have. I want all of our forces around the wasteland to be aware of our operation, especially the Commonwealth divisions. Knowing how their slowly becoming attached to that temporary alliance, I must let then know of only those we can trust and those that we won't."
She earned a nod, and with that Amanda dismissed the soldier before setting her eyes back at the numerous amour of energy weapons being inspected and placed into metal crates.
"Sergeant told me you're heading to Missouri, Commander."
Turning her head over to see Chuck approaching Amanda just simply nodded.
"I've already have vertibirds hauling containers to Navarro. Parts, materials, tools as such etc. We'll be able to rush the Aircraft Carrier, though it may take a while still, but with the resources now on our possession, it'll definitely be finished asap."
Amanda bitterly frowned. It wasn't all the resources that she wanted for the Enclave.
"The NCR still has part of our property. That, assure from threatening our Oil Rig is what we came here for. We will take back what's ours by force once we're settled absorbing the Brotherhood of Steel on Missouri. As for the Brotherhood on Lost Hills, we will demand them back of all the Enclave property they've robbed Navarro of."
"Look, Commander. I know it's not my place to say but... The Enclave really did a lot of... Fucked up things. A lot of things that'll make people sick to their stomachs. I think they deserved what got to them -as no offense since we're clearly not a government- but can we just move on, Ma'am? It's been like... Several decades since Navarro's troops got their ass kicked."
Amanda glared at the aged man, who only sighed at her in return.
"I know... I'm sorry. But... Hey I'm trying saying is, we have much advanced technology than what they have. Those old scraps are clearly outdated and obsolete machines now as being up to date unlike to the ones only us posses."
Amanda frowned bitterly. She didn't like the thought of what Chuck said. But somehow... Part of her surprisingly agree to the aged man. He was right... It had been long since the fall of the Enclave from before. Those that did sinister commitments carried our their mistakes to their graves.
What was there for Amanda to recover when she both despises her ancestors, and wants their Enclave's property back?
"We will get nothing in return even it we do take their back, Commander. I've... Been thinking about Lost Hills recently. Made me think twice about the idea of storming the bunker just to grab what belongs to us? It's just wrong. I mean, we're not noble, yeah, but... Can we... Try to be humans, at least every once in a while? We've been too inhumane after all on the NCR..."
To hear Chuck's reluctant tine finished slowly, Amanda didn't say anything. Clearly, she hated what she heard from Chuck. But seeing that he does have a point... Amanda didn't argue.
She let out a deep, irritated sigh with a bitter frown that made her teeth gritting under her helmet. But she didn't say anything.
"I'm sorry, Commander. I... Didn't mean to say that. But... It's been bothering me about your... Well-being. You've been... Rather, stressed out, lacking of sleep, double timing work and focusing too much on the resource grabs, which is why we ended up starting a resource war, after the one long before firing the pre-war. Our doctors had been worried as well. They demand you were declining regular checkups..."
Amanda turned to Chuck wordlessly. But a glare clearly worn under her helmet.
"What I do. I do it for the Enclave. To protect its values."
Seeing Chuck sighing again, she noticed a look of concern.
"Apparently, I'm not the only one who's concerned about you, Commander. Every soldier we have. Hell, I even hear the AIs whispering concern about your well-being. But... Alright... I won't push it. But please, Ma'am... If, we ever finish all this here on New Vegas, I would advise you take a break. You deserve it. To clear some things you need to release."
Amanda just forced a slight nod. She didn't like the advice. But somehow... It got her thinking. Her soldiers being concerned about her well-being? She wasn't crazy... Neither doing anything similar to the previous leaders if the Enclave. So what was there for them to be concerned of her for?
Amanda bitterly frowned even more. She's a leader for god's fucking sake.
A leader has to, remain strong, at all and any cost to lead her army. What's a leader if else will be human like the rest? If she will be like General Ward, being a fool by following his oath? Amanda wasn't like that. She was far better than any leader combined. Fuck. For the short while after reviving the Enclave, she outpaced the USAF General. Hell, she could even star a war with the Brotherhood at California and easily win it whenever she wants as she clearly outnumbers and outmatches them. And most certainly, she simply aided out the NCR at California, leaving only scraps of it under General Oliver to be mopped off Mojave.
And now she gets the idea of being human? That would only be a huge disadvantage for someone bearing a military career... But unlike her...
Amanda remembered Nate... He wasn't sift, but he was human... Dammit... She really need to stop thinking...
"I'll be doing now, Chuck."
Amanda simple said as she walked past the aged man.
"Oh, I'm gonna have to come with you, Comman-"
"No. I want you in charge here while the men prepares for Vault 0 to be operational."
"Are you sure you'll be alright, Commander?"
Amanda stopped on her track shortly before simply responding.
"My well being is in stable condition, Chuck. Nothing to worry about."
And with that Amanda single walked away and back outside the enormous Vault.
Getting back to the vertibird stop, Amanda simply got in board and told the pilot to head straight to Missouri.
The hours on board the vertibird, Amanda was rather silent as she only ignored the chatter on the radio at the cockpit.
In reality, she was in deep tight about what Chuck said. She couldn't blame Chuck if he wishes to feel a bit human at least. After all, she's had him and the rest of her soldiers do only one questionable thing which was annexing the NCR. But did he really had to tell her how concerned everyone was even himself? She didn't need their concern. Her personal problems were her problems.
Although she didn't like the advice... But it's been quite... Forever since she had a break. The Enclave itself can function on its own with commanding officers maintaining functionality. But finishing the conflict with the NCR has to come first. Then maybe, she can take some time in West Virginia. But she wasn't putting her plan to secure the nukes there postponed either.
Finally, after the long damn flight, Amanda filed out of the vertibird. The sight of the establishments were in no good condition. Most if the buildings collapsed, debris of concrete all over, and finally, the sight of a rusted fence gate outside an old establishment in what appears to be a sort of pre-war warehouse in Eldon.
After meeting a detachment of Outcast troopers, Amanda only waited in best to be patient as the gates were opened by guards from the other side of the fence large fence.
"Welcome to Fort Alpha, one of the last standing outposts of the Brotherhood of Steel."
Amanda slightly gave a nod at the guard.
"I am certain your officers are aware of my arrival."
Amanda simple stated, which she earned a small nod.
"Yes, Ma'am. Though, no one is really in charge, we only take orders from those few of us that united to lead what's left of our numbers."
Amanda simply nodded in acknowledgment.
"Now if you please, follow us, and we'll take you inside door the peace talk."
Amanda just hoped before following the guards with her Outcast troopers.
The inside of the establishment wasn't much, but was still well-organized. A bit of tech, equipment and mostly personnel wearing the very familiar horned power armor in OD green color.
A slightly formed and worn flag clipped on the wall, Amanda noticed the same Brotherhood of Steel insignia, except, it was rather dark blue in color instead of how she knew it being white.
As she was led into a larger room, Amanda met a large table with a few occupants waiting for her and her Outcast unit.
"Welcome, Commander!"
There stood a few power armored men and women without helmets as she was greeted.
"We are glad you arrived safely here on Missouri. Please excuse the emptiness outside. But don't let it fool you. Most bands of raiders here have a knack for surprise ambush attacks..."
Amanda just simply waved it off and responded.
"I am pleased to be hear to finally speak with you all. But to get further to my point."
She looked around on each of the men, and women. Each all had a Paladin rank.
"I wish to apologize for the sudden commitment. We've encountered a small band if your man at Colorado, working with the Desert Rangers and remnants from Navarro."
Amanda had to start it out there. Of course... As much as she hared apologizing and admitting, she wasn't a loser to her soldiers. And these will be absorbed into her ranks, she might as well be truthful.
"Colorado? Oh, you must've mistaken Commander."
Amanda raised a brow.
"We've had to deal with deserters on our ranks. Not all of our soldiers are as loyal as they seem. Most of them came from Fort Delta. We've been dealing with deserters for most of the passed years. But luckily we've still gotten a few recruits willing to join us despite our critical decrease in numbers."
Amanda wondered for a moment. How did these people gain loss, but setting aside the thought, she immediately replied.
"You won't have to worry further. I've been told and had gathered Intel about your ideology in due Brotherhood. Though, ours is lost of securing our property and progress our military strength further, we also recruit outsiders into our ranks."
"We've been told through the established frequency with your Brotherhood Outcast. And surprisingly, it is quite hard to believe until now that you took them in to your ranks."
Amanda shortly frowned, but then mentally sighed and replied.
"They go by Outcast now. And yes, they're once part of the Brotherhood from the east coast, that being the old Washington DC. Like you, they had their own ideology and reason they left the Brotherhood a decade ago."
Pausing, Amanda looked at each of the eyes of the men, and women in power armor.
"We all share a trait. We dispersed from the original ideals that we never liked on the name carried by our predecessors. If we want to make a difference... Only together we can make it work."
Stepping forward and meeting the stares in front of her, Amanda didn't need to manipulate them. He knew these people didn't manipulation. What they need... Is a real leader competent enough to lead and manage them.
"I know. There are those people that disagree with our differences. But as I'm speaking in front of you. All of you. Remember this. We will show them that we can make a difference. Either they agree or not. Whether they like it or not. It is our right to do so. If we want to disperse from our former members on the same names we share with them, they don't have the right to tell us what to do. If you unite with the Enclave. I promise you all. That your ideology will be listened upon. Your addition, presence and contribution will be valued than simply appreciated."
She paused shortly before taking a few breaths before finally continuing.
"And if those people that oppressed us before ever dare step in our way. We will terminate them to their last man. Together, under the name and flag of the Enclave."
There was a long silence after her speech. It was so silent that no one ever dared speak, until Amanda decided to break the long silence.
"I know what you're all thinking. That this is just the same old Enclave that only uses resources around them as their tactic for their personal gain. Then, I will tell you all... That we are not a Government. We are a military, dispersed from the Enclave's ideology of wiping out the Wasteland of life. We may intern to absorb other factions proven potential to the Enclave's military yes. But we intend only to destroy those that opposes us. Wait we only prioritizes is the security of our property, progressing our technology and growing our military."
Amanda finally finished. But to see all the others exchanging looks shortly, she waited not long until all eyes returned to her.
"Perhaps... We may leave behind the rivalry of our inferior brothers, and sisters who wish to follow their ideology. Commander Amani of the Enclave. For so long we've struggled since the loss of our General Banarky and many brothers, and sisters... We would be honored to have a new commanding officer leading us again.
And despite your honesty to absorb the Brotherhood of Steel into the ranks of the Enclave... We would like to know more details about our future role once we settle the agreement after this peace talk."
It was all that Amanda needed. Therefore, she finally wore a satisfied grin under her helmet before responding.
"First step before we get into details, Paladins. Is that we would most likely use you as a third division of the Enclave. Like the Outcast being a black operations division. The plan for your role is to be a peace keeping division."
And with that... Amanda finally added her full statement.
"Your division will be called: Midwestern Brotherhood of Steel -Midwest BOS for short.
Under the mighty name and flag of the Enclave."
"War after war, the Brotherhood continued its own duty in combating the hostilities of the wasteland, while trying to maintain their numbers increased from outsiders. But in due time. Decade after decade of endless fighting, their numbers began to decrease. From the beginning of their fruitless victory against the Calculator, and it's army of robots, to the wild hostilities the wasteland had to offer throughout many decades passed. They slowly began to crumble.
Gaining more loss than addition to their numbers, the Brotherhood began to lose bunker after bunker and were pushed to the lands of Missouri in the year 2235.
With their lack of leadership, they faced continuous hardships that tested the might of each Brotherhood. Some fell from the endless battles they've fought, while others left the ranks without a word ever heard from again. Leaving the rest, remaining intact to fulfill their duties to their final breath.
Years passed, they became barely operational, and mostly fragile. Though, remained disciplined, but tested. It was only a matter of time, before they finally succumbed to the wasteland, as they finally closed their doors of what remained of their outposts between Eldon and West Aurora. But the bloody end didn't end as the conclusion; was the Brotherhood finally collapsing in the year 2242 with what remained of its numbers as a two-sided division with the loss of greater numbers, lack of leadership, and the loss of purpose to fight.
It was until 2287. The year, where salvation came to Missouri. An unexpected call from an old enemy, calling out to all arms, looking to recruit numbers to absorb into their overwhelming ranks. The Enclave.
Joined upon, and one with its name was a division of its own, one discarded from the ranks of the Brotherhood of Steel.
As the Brotherhood opened its doors to listen, and a peace talk was initiated. Then later came the very leader of the Enclave. A peaceful alliance was spoken to be formed. In the name of absorption for the Enclave's control, the benefit was to be given for the Brotherhood in return. A better position in the ranks of the Enclave was open. And a permanent home and role was promised. And with a new purpose given, it struck the Brotherhood to reawaken.
As free descendants from the minority of the West coast Brotherhood, they were free to make the choice without the authority of the High Council at Lost Hills or from any other Brotherhood, as an alliance was peacefully opened. A second opportunity to be finally known in the wasteland was given. A purpose to fight for their ideologies without the fear for the real Brotherhood has been given vision by the Enclave. A choice needed to be made.
And like the Enclave, and it's Outcast. They shared the trait of dispersing from their original ideals. Therefore -Despite their rivaled history- A choice has been made...
Now dubbed as the 'Midwestern Brotherhood of Steel' under their new leader's name and control, the re-forged Brotherhood embraced the freedom given to them by their former enemies, and as old wounds slowly began to heal, they reformed altogether as one on the same initial name. The Enclave.
...But as further knowledge was given about the purpose of their reestablishment, was that their uprising... Was only a preparation part of tactics for an ongoing war against a corrupted nation on the west coast.
But that, is a chapter for another day."
-ripntear
This is the last chapter to be published for now until I finish on some of the earlier chapters for re-editting. Next chapter shall be released, but not anytime soon.
Response to recent review: Acknowledged.
ripntear