A/N: This one took a little longer than I'd hoped. But here it is! Sorry for any missed errors.
Obligatory legal stuff here to satisfy website guidelines and other stuff.
"May I ask where you're going?" I froze the moment I heard the voice. Hand hovering over the doorknob. Perhaps I had gotten ready too soon? It had been maybe twenty - no, thirty minutes, since 2B and 9S had left. I was certain that had been long enough. During that time, I decided that my best bet to make sure that A2 wasn't going to get into trouble would be to go directly to Anemone. Maybe I could offer to do side job's for her if it meant A2 not being court martialed or something along those lines. However, considering the voice just now, it seemed I didn't wait long enough for 2B and 9S to leave.
When I slowly turned my chair so that I could face the culprit, I find exactly what I had been worried about - 2B. She stood in the middle of the hallway. Between me and the door on the far end. Arms crossed as she looked down at me. Despite being well beyond arms length, she might as well of been right in front of me. She looked as every bit intimidating as the day I saw her from afar. With a sigh, I pull back the hood of my red cloak and return her gaze. I doubted that there would be a point to hide the fact that I'm trembling. Regardless, I tug at the sleeves of my beige shirt. It's a bit too large for me, the sleeves cover almost my whole hand, but I don't mind. "I... I wanted to talk to Anemone." I tried to put more strength in my tone. Speak with a bit more authority so that I wouldn't need to repeat myself. But the set frown on 2B's lips only deepened while I spoke. An all too obvious signal that I did not achieve my goal. "The Pod that the Commander sent me isn't anywhere to be found. So, I decided-"
"The Camp is too dangerous for a Human to be in right now. Return to your room and I'll inform Anemone that you wish to speak with her." 2B spoke in a no nonsense tone. Smoothly interrupting me without missing a beat. I flinch but somehow manage to muster the will to hold my ground. However, the urge to look away is hard to resist. It'd be so much easier to just turn my gaze to the wall then the floor. Anywhere that she wasn't would suffice. Brief flashes of her stabbing the corpse of her comrade came to the forefront of my mind again. I can almost smell the rain from back then as I look at her.
I almost shake my head. Of course, the Camp is too dangerous. "I'll just stay in the corner of the Medical tent where the twins work." It bothered me that 2B is just hanging out in the hallway. Was she waiting for me? Standing guard? Evidently, if she was standing guard, it's probably to keep me inside. "I don't want to go back into my room." Honestly, I almost feel like I'm defying a parents instruction. Looking up at 2B with steady gaze. Now's not the time to back down. Redoubling my effort, I made sure to straighten. Waiting expectantly for her to turn me down again. Despite the low light in the hallway, I can make out the intrinsic pattern woven into her uniform. As well as her double blindfold. Just how was she able to even see with that thing on?
Somehow, by the grace of the unseen, 2B seemed to relent. The white haired woman visibly sighed and uncrossed her arms. She took a step towards me. "You will stay in the Medical tent and go no where else. If anyone approaches you then I'll handle them. Do you understand?" It's obvious that if I tried to argue, 2B might become even more strict with the terms for going outside. Just looking at her gave the impression that she might rather have a full security detail or have me wear full body armor. Not a simple beige shirt and cargo pants. "This is non-negotiable. Either you stay with me or return to your room. Your safety is my primary concern." 2B added in an authoritative tone.
"Am I being held as a prisoner? What is so dangerous that it warrants I have not one but two guards?" I asked, recalling that the other woman, 9D, stood guard outside. "I get it - this is a military camp. But you give me the impression that something is wrong." I fold my arms and give her a suspicious look. Eyebrow raised and a frown on my lips. She'll probably lie to me. But at least I can say that I came out and asked.
2B didn't say anything. Instead, she opted to stare at me. Perhaps thinking about the question. Alternatively, she's probably waiting for me to say something else. Regardless, it's frustrating that I couldn't accurately gauge what this woman is thinking. Wait... I look closely at 2B, is she... I think... I think that she's actually studying me. There's no way to tell for certain. It's merely a feeling. Based nothing more than on the simple fact that she seemed a little relaxed. The aura about her is much the same that someone who's curious would have. That said, it made me wonder - was 2B on her way to speak with me?
2B's frown slowly faded, signaling a shift in her mood. Like she had realized something. What ever it is, I'm not sure if it's genuine fact or an assumption on 2B's part. "Anemone has requested re-enforcements and additional supplies. Namely weapons and explosives. This is in preparation for your inevitable transfer to the bunker that is being constructed under the camp." Ok, as far as explanations go, this one worried me the most. Explosives and untrained humans don't go well together. If an explosive went off - no more humans. Especially if there's a lot of explosives and bullets laying around. Needless to say, I can understand why 2B and everyone else would want me to stay inside.
I shake my head again. Unable to bite back a sigh. I suppose that maybe it's a bit overkill. However, for all I knew, it probably made her feel better knowing she has extra supplies. "2B, I know that you're aware of my apprehension of your organization. That includes being around you. But..." I trailed off. The fact that 2B shifted and folded her arms when I stated my apprehension about her not lost on me. "I'm not going to pretend to know everything. That includes what the Aliens and their Machines are doing. But... I want to go outside and speak with Anemone. I need a distraction and sitting around won't help me. Especially since the Pod that YoRHa has given me is missing." With my piece said, I lean back into my chair a bit further. Now I just needed to wait for 2B's final affirmation that I can leave.
"I will check with 9D to ensure that it is safe. Please wait here." 2B spoke curtly before turning away from me. She strode down the hallway and disappeared outside. The door quickly shut behind her before I could even catch a glimpse of outside. No sound drifted through the air as I silently commanded the chair to move forward. My hand rested ever gently over the control sphere for the mechanized chair. Suddenly, the door swung open and I stopped. 2B stood within the threshold, her turned off to the right, talking to someone just out of sight. A moment later she stepped into the hallway. I waited until she stopped just in front of me. "A clear path has been made to the Medical Tent. Follow me." I nodded and allowed 2B to take the lead. With myself following close behind her.
It's much like that first moment when I had been allowed outside. I need a moment to allow my eyes to adjust to the light. When it does, I see dozens, if not hundreds, of metal crates scattered around the courtyard. The next thing I notice is the heat on my face - it's hot. The red hood I wore did little to shield me. After tugging my cloak closer, I follow 2B. Members of the Resistance were opening crates as well as moving them about. Stacking them in groups no more than two to three crates high. At the very center of the courtyard, I spotted the familiar black cloak belonging to Anemone. She stood on top of two crates and seemed to be giving orders. Indicating where crates should be moved with one hand while the other was raised to her mouth. As 2B and I moved to the Medical Tent, I caught a glimpse of several people from YoRHa standing at the far side of the clearing. A moment passed before they started helping move crates. Much like 2B, none of them appeared to favor showing any sort of real emotion. "You weren't kidding. Is all this stuff really nothing but guns and bullets?" I can't help but ask after the two of us entered the Medical Tent. All of the beds are empty. There's no one inside. However, some of the beds are unmade. Their former occupants likely drafted into helping with organizing the supplies.
"Affirmative." 2B replied, "9D has informed Anemone of your request. When the bulk of the supplies has been resolved, she will come speak with you." I look out across the clearing. The Resistance Leader, Anemone, kept making gestures every which way. Pointing out different crates and yelling something. However, I noticed that she kept glancing at me. Not for any length of time. Only a quick glance before she turned her attention to the task at hand. When her gaze locked with mine, I nodded briefly. Just enough that the upper half of her body disappeared. Obscured by the edge of my hood. When I raise my head, I see that Anemone returned her attention to her task. I look at 2B and notice that she's staring. At least, I think she is. It's hard to tell with her blindfold. But given the fact that she's fully facing me, it's fairly safe to say that she is.
"There's something on your mind." I said after a moment. Given what 2B said, I imagined that she would be staring at the Camp. But no, she's not, she's staring at me. Arms crossed and that trademark frown of hers on full display. Yet... I don't think 2B is annoyed. If anything, it's likely a product of being deep in thought.
2B finally moved and stepped closer. The sound of her footfalls dulled by the cacophony of work being carried out not even a few feet from the tent. However, when she took that one step. I realize just how close she really is now. She's well within arms reach now. "What business do you have with Anemone?" She asked in a serious tone.
"I want to know for certain that A2 won't get into any trouble because of me. You nor 9S will obviously not give me a straight answer. So, I decided I should ask Anemone to look into the matter for me." I replied, opting to keep my gaze on the clearing in front of us. Well, 'clearing' wouldn't exactly be the right word. More like 'formerly empty clearing' would be more apt. Since 2B spoke up, I notice that there are decidedly more people from the Resistance helping out now. There are even some from YoRHa helping too. Their black clothing easily made them stand out. As did the fact that, when they picked up a large metal crate and set it to the side, someone from the Resistance would take that same crate and move it elsewhere. Typically while shaking their head.
"Your recovery takes precedence. Therefore, those... from YoRHa, are to not interact with you in any extended capacity. That is the directive that Command has given." I noticed her pause almost immediately. Brief it may have been, I still noticed it. I shifted in my chair and looked at her hard. When I did, 2B casually looked away. Towards the center of the Camp where Anemone stood atop a crate. As if my movements were interlinked with hers. Or she realized something. Whatever the reason, dwelling on it is useless. "Additionally, a person such as you shouldn't even be on the planet. Keeping news of you contained is paramount. If word were to spread, it would cause problems." 2B explained calmly. As if I weren't staring at her intently.
"Those from YoRHa?" I decided to ask without missing a beat. The fact she acted like nothing was wrong isn't lost on me. Therefore, I wouldn't let her off so easily. I'm intrigued and wanted to know what made her pause. Even if only for a split second.
2B didn't say anything. When I prepared to ask if she heard me, the sound of footsteps caught my attention. "Sorry for the wait. It's a pretty busy day today. I wasn't expecting you, is there something wrong?" Anemone spoke in a friendly tone. Albeit, a little tired. I return her smile and relax. Anemone left her hands resting at her side and glanced from 2B then to me.
"I'm sorry for bothering you, Anemone. I'll only take a moment of your time." When I spoke up, Anemone gave a small dismissive wave. As if a fly were bothering her.
"There's no reason to apologize. I can make some time if you want to talk. Though, I was a little concerned when 2B told me you had asked for me. Shouldn't you be resting?" Anemone definitely sounded concerned. Especially when she looked me up and down. Like she could see right through me and examine my healing wounds. Well, considering the blindfolds that YoRHa soldiers wear, that... might actually be what Anemone is doing right now. Who knows what she and everyone around me is capable of.
I shook my head and brushed aside the discomfort I felt from her staring. Mirroring her dismissive wave with a small gesture of my hand. "I'm fine, thank you for your concern. It's just that I was worried about A2." When I said A2, I could have sworn that Anemone glanced at 2B. But it was hard to tell since the sun was right at Anemone's back. The glare made it difficult tell with any certainty. "2B and 9S gave me the impression she's in trouble. I understand that everyone would like for me to recover as quickly as possible. But receiving the odd visitor here and there doesn't bother me." I explained in earnest, "The Pod that YoRHa sent me isn't around. So, that said, could you talk with YoRHa's Commander? I don't want to be any more of a burden than I already am. But I really don't want A2 getting into trouble just because of me." Even with the glare of the sun obscuring my sight, I can tell that Anemone is unsure of my request. Her smile visibly faltered and she put a hand on her hip. Gaze downcast and the friendly yet authoritative aura of hers shifted to something a little more serious. The hand not resting on her hip clenched lightly into a fist. "I tried to get 2B and 9S to understand that. However, it didn't do much good. I cast a sidelong glance at one of the aforementioned two. An attempt to place an emphasis on my words, more than anything. Though, given how 2B seemed to stiffen, I imagined that she didn't see it that way. Maybe I should apologize?
"I can certainly have a word with the Commander. But since A2 is with YoRHa, I'm afraid there's only so much I can do." I felt my mood fall drastically at Anemone's words. The cloaked woman brought her free hand up to her chin, as if deep in thought and momentarily oblivious to my presence. "But... I imagine that talking to her directly would probably carry more weight. Actually, now that I think about it, doing so would definitely be a good thing. She mentioned in her last report that she would like to speak with you." Anemone added after a minute of silence. Finally she looked at me after she lowered her hand.
The Commander of YoRHa wished to speak with me? Well... if it meant that I could get my request across, then I'd be willing to do it. But I'd be lying if I said it didn't bother me. I looked at 2B, noting that she, like Anemone, stared at me. The attention is starting to make me a little uncomfortable. "R-Right, I guess I can speak with her. But how?" The Pod that was sent to me is no where to be found. That said, I can scarcely think of how to contact them. It's not like I could just pick up a cellphone and call the Bunker. Given the war, it's obvious it wouldn't be that simple.
"Any Pod has a direct line to the Bunker. Once we are somewhere private, my Pod will contact Command." 2B explained almost immediately. It made me think that she had likely been expecting me to ask that. I wonder if maybe 2B had plotted out how the conversation might go this whole time. "The Commander is busy handling a combat operation within the City Ruins. When she is available, I will notify you." It made sense, I guess. But... now I'm concerned. How could someone like the Commander of YoRHa even make time? Wouldn't it be better to just send a message rather than call them directly? Surely that would be more practical. Using a private line simply to personally convey my singular request to not punish A2 for visiting is just too excessive.
Speaking of YoRHa, if they're conducting an operation in the City Ruins, then - "Are Devola and Popola ok?" My question came before I could finish my thought. When I spoke, I leaned forward a little. Anticipating the worst. However, Anemone frowned in response. Something that happened to worry me even more. "They're ok, right?" I asked again. Worry coated each word as they passed my lips.
Anemone's frown dissipated and she shook her head. Then she crossed her arms, her commanding gaze fixated on me. It's a little intimidating. Like she wanted there to be no argument after she spoke. "They're fine. If something was wrong then they'd ask for re-enforcements. Right now, they're out of radio contact. Which is to be expected due to protocol." Despite the fact that Anemone spoke in a firm yet calm tone, I still felt an intense worry for their safety. Did she really expect me to just believe they're fine?
A/N: Thank you for reading!
Review stuff:
To Guest: Thank you for the review! I'm sorry about taking so long to update this fanfic. The website wouldn't let me access the document manager and manage stories tab. So, I couldn't upload any updates for editing and publish aforementioned updates. But, anywho, thanks again! I hope you're doing well! O/