When one finds themselves traveling through the abyss between worlds there is always a sense of dread in the back of their minds. At least to mortal beings. Gods on the other hand embrace such a realm like any. It is but one of many in between realities infinite layers.
Several such entities where there in the corridor forcefully made and artificially held. Unseen by the many vehicles that now pass by each way. Humans none the wiser to powerful beings that can weave together the fabric of reality. At least they use to in some measure.
Still they watched on in amusement at Hardy's expense. The fool Goddess of the Underworld abused the power of the Wellspring they had left behind once more. Once more had she opened it up to Earth, or an Earth. All this to both "teach a lesson", and to also satiate her ever growing boredom. A petulant child like those "Gods" of that world.
"Gods" was a very loose term to the entities when use to describe those from that world. Most are just highly evolved beings much like The Precursors. Those that could create life from nothing but still can be hurt. A few have actually ascended, shedding their mortal being and grew their soul strong enough. But even then they where very very young gods. Not yet have they truly harness any power, nor have they truly understood what it means to hold to The Mantle and its ideals.
The only true God among them was the last son of The Old Gods. He who had tricked the new into thinking that he was one of their own. They know not the parasite in their ranks. The Entities wanted it that way and so Emroy did his duty to them.
However now with the introduction to the other player in their game Emroy's place will soon be called into question by Flare. By then it could be too late for them to do anything. Though in reality the Entities didn't want to take that chance again. They had paid for one hubris ten times over, why should they not learn from that?
For now they continue to watch. Mechanical machines built by humanity still chugging away in the abyss. All occupants radiating primal fear from their surroundings. But one such vehicle caught all their attention as an oddity. One occupant didn't have that fear, instead her anger and frustration lit the darkness around like a flair in the pitch of night.
Again the Entities laugh knowing as to why such strong emotions where on full display to them, but never to the two others in the black SUV.
To say that Major Yoshino was in a foul mood would be a gross understatement. Her face was stone cold as she looked out into the dark nothingness that surrounded the equally black SUV. What gives away her frustration was the rhythmic tapping on the fresh cast on her wrist. A sore reminder of the subject she and the Lieutenant with her had to keep an eye on.
Her superiors in Military Intelligence where more angry at both her, Lieutenant General Hazama, and the Spartan. For her it was the fact that she came way to close to one of his weapons making him hostile to Japan. For him it was the fact that he threatened personnel. Lastly Hazama was in hot water for actually letting him off with a "light sentencing". However the Spartan agreed to it, and to follow orders. That had earned Hazama in keeping his position, for now.
Still Manami's superiors had sent her back through the Gate. This time they saw fit to attach another of their agents to her displeasure. One that was in her eyes a spineless kiss ass that had no right being in the JSDF let alone Military Intelligence. Worst yet it was her own flesh and blood.
Second Lieutenant Yoshino Ayumi, much like the older, was just as bookish, and a little mousy as some have said. And much like Manami she had round glasses, tied up black hair, and a crisp uniform. Ayumi would have been a perfect copy if not for her anxious personality. One that was the opposite to her elder sisters cold demeanor.
Oh how Manami loathed her. She had always looked up to her and tried to emulate her, even as far as joining the JSDF when she was of age. It had been shear luck she landed in Military Intelligence due to her diligence and technical skills with information. Her anxiety disorder would never allow for her to truly advance in her career, let alone her tendency to roll over at her superiors beck and call.
Manami had her own ambitions. That drive got her to where she was at in little time. Now with the incident with the Gate and the incursion into the new world she was willing to use it to advance her countries prosperity and hers. Anyone who would get in the way, be it that Spartan or her own sister will be crushed accordingly.
Ayumi in the meantime still kept her eyes down to the floor. Her breathing was calm and rhythmic just like her therapist taught her in these moments. Being in this place had driven a panic attack to the surface, something that was getting harder to control the more they drove on.
There driver seeing this in his rear view spoke up. "We're almost there Lieutenant. I can see the light at the end."
Swallowing hard she nodded at that. "Thank you Sergeant."
Manami gave her a side eye. 'Why the hell did they pair me up with you of all people.' She thought bitterly.
True to the drivers words the light at the end got closer and closer. Finally they broke through the barrier between worlds and into a whole new world. Ayumin was originally excited by the prospect, only for it to die a bit due to the fact that what greeted her was just another military base. Manami as usual ignored the sad look her kin had.
"I trust you understand why we are here?"
"Yes Ma'am." She squeaked. "Observation of subject. Nothing more."
"Good." She reached back and plucked a hardcase from the back. "Your assignment is to get as much video and audio."
The timid woman gingerly took the case. Flipping the latches revealed a field camera and all necessary equipment, all wrapped up neatly in cut foam.
"I expect this to be an... easy assignment." Her cast clad fist involuntarily clenched shooting pain up her arm. "I will do all the talking. You will observe. Am I clear Second Lieutenant?"
Ayumi shrunk in on herself at the cold gaze her sister cast on her. "Y-yes Major Yoshino."
"We'll be at the camp soon Major." Their driver cut in. He squinted his eyes and leaned on the wheel. "Huh. Looks to be a crowed out there?"
"We have everything for our guest Lieutenant?" Hazama asked.
Yanagida hefted the dufflebag he had in one hand while still looking at the tablet in the other. Hazama had asked him to gather any cloths that could potentially fit over the titan of a man that they now have under their "employ". Under such noticed he doubt that any of it would fit.
"Shirt, pants, boxers, socks, and type 2 combat boots. Doubt any of it would fit Sir."
Hazama pursed his lips together. "Man needs something other then that armor of his to wear. And not like we'll have him down to his birthday suit for his medical exam."
"Doesn't a suit like that have some onboard medical equipment we might use?" Yanagida knew from most sci-fi stories with armor like that would have something that could give medical readouts. No way that something that advanced wouldn't.
"Probably." Hazama admitted. "Though I would very much doubt that he would let us use it."
"Right. Classified military hardware." The Lieutenant scoffed at that. "Not like his organization exists now anyways. Why keep something like that from us in the first place?"
Hazama looked sternly at his adjutant "Because First Lieutenant Yanagida, that suit of his is his, and his alone." He said coldly. "Don't get me wrong, what that suit has would very much benefit us and our country greatly, but it is something that not anyone back on Earth is ready for."
Yanagida's head cocked "Meaning Sir?"
"Meaning that others will abuse that kind of power it holds." He then began walking towards the camp. "It's almost time Lieutenant. I would like to talk to the Spartan before the Major shows up."
Walking along next to the General was awkward after that. For the past night Yanagida wondered what happened in the short time his commanding officer talked with this Spartan. What had caused the man that never buckled in the few years he had been his adjutant to be in fear? Surly they could handle him even with that armor of his? Not like it could shrug off a tank round if it came to it, or even at minimum one of their anti-tank weapons.
Those thoughts soon where interrupted by Hazama.
"Huh," He grunted. "Camp seems lively this morning."
Sure enough the Lieutenant could see all the refugees and Third Recon crowding around outside the mess tent. They all have gathered in a circle all with impressed or dumbfounded looks on the adults. The children on the other hand where cheering on with enthusiasm. In the middle of it all and not very hidden from even the tallest of the group Yanagida could see the pair of metal legs in the air. Those same legs where ram rod straight and in a steady motion was going up and down.
Hazama wormed his way through with him in tow. Mostly the people of Third Recon politely parted for their higher ups, the children however complained a little in their own tongue at the grown men. When they got to the inner circle he could see now why everyone was acting the way.
The Spartan was in a full one handed stand-up, body ram rod straight with his left arm tucked behind his back. His right arm smoothly compressed bending the elbow till his bare face was close to the ground. Breath blown out in a steady way till the air was sucked in again. Pushing upwards again so that his armored body rose above the crowed. The man had a look of calm, no hint of strain or anything, not even sweat.
Next to him two of the women of Third Recon watched. Their close combat expert had a manic glee to her as she counted upwards from 487. The medic had her arm across her chest with the other hand cupping her face. Obviously having a worried look as her eyes moved with the Spartans body.
Yanagida inched closer to her and asked. "What is he doing?"
"Light PT." Was all she muttered before it was drowned out by her compatriot.
"495, 496, 497," Her voice was getting more excited.
His brow raised as he looked at the Spartan. After another extension he stopped. In a blink the dirt from his hand shifted to the right sending a small dust cloud. His right was now behind his back while the left arm supported him. Yanagida had to blink several times. It didn't even look like the armored behemoth of a man moved an inch when he switched.
"How did he...?" Hazama's voice trailed off when he saw both women shrug.
"That's... Fast." Was all Yanagida had to say.
"I know right!" Shino was excited. "Makes me want armor like that!"
Though they had been talking in Japanes, Yanagida could have sworn in that instance the Spartan understood. The only telling sign was the short interruption of the push up before he continued on.
Hazama cleared his throat. "Uh Spartan?"
The Spartan looked up, or down depending on view, at Hazama. With a nod he greeted him. "Sir."
"You just about done there?"
He pushed up one last time letting his right arm stabilize him. In a fluid motion his body contorted back and around. With the momentum he was on his feet and facing both officer. Intimidation spread throughout Yanagida. The full size of the spartan compared to him forced his head to tilt up just to look him in the eye. Picking the clothing up he knew this guy would be large, seeing it himself was a whole other thing.
"Had a few more reps to knock out, but can be put on hold." He then shifted into a full parade rest. "Orders?"
"First order is to report to medical for examination. I trust that Sergeant Kurokawa talked to you before hand on it?" Hazama glanced over at the medic who gave a nod.
"Yes Sir, she did talked to me about that." The Spartan slightly shifted. " I was told that in order to do so I need to take off my armor. I request that I make use of any tool needed to do so."
Hazama smiled. "Anything you need Spartan. Most power-tools we have are currently in Motorpool. Lieutenant Yanagida here will show you to it."
He forced himself not to flinch as those green eyes gazed on him. Politely he smiled like his superior, but was never given one in return. Just that same blank face of a professional, or a doll.
Yanagida soon commented "We also taken the liberty to provide you clothing." He lifted up the dufflebag. "Not sure if it would fit given short notice."
The Spartan nodded. "Appreciate the gesture."
"After that I was told by higher up to have you undergo a physical..." Hazama stopped to see that Yanagida and a few others raised their brow.
He coughed. "I myself don't doubt your physical prowess seeing as you have demonstrated that already." A sigh was let out. "However Military Intelligence would like to record this themselves seeing as how I "neglected" to record our conversation last night."
As he said that Yanagida started to hear the hum of an engine coming down the dirt path. Turning to it he could see the jet black SUV that government departments just seem to love to use. "Speak the Devil's name and he shall appear." He huffed.
The crowed of refugees began to part as the vehicle stopped. From out the back passenger seats Major Yoshina and a Lieutenant stepped out. Already he could see the striking resemblance between the two women. Sure enough when both of them made their way through the parting group he could see that they shared the same family name on their BDU.
Both snapped a salute. The elder one spoke "Major Yoshino and Second Lieutenant Yoshino reporting in Sir."
"Ah Major, Lieutenant, was just talking to him about what was going on." Though Hazama smiled Yanagida knew that it was only to be polite. He too did the same, but the smile was more genuine to the Lieutenant. Benefit of the doubt until he knows more about her. Whether she was like the older remained to be seen.
The Spartan however still had that blank face. Glancing at the cast the Major had he commented. "How is the wrist Major?"
There was a brief wince to her face before the facade of professionalism came back. "Fine." she gritted out.
Hazama coughed before continuing. "As I was saying, after the physical we will also test out how well you can handle yourself with a weapon."
'Ah yes, The Pit.' A migraine began to form just thinking about the combat engineers pet project. Approved by command as a way to supplement combat training while deployed. The U.S Rangers had a similar thing over in the middle east, but the engineers here took that and made it into a monstrosity.
His mind came back as the Spartan asked "This all to get combat data on me sir?"
"We want to know how best to use your abilities Spartan." Major Yoshino cut in. There was an undercurrent to her words. Yanagida knew better that it wasn't the whole truth to it.
"If he is willing to help us in that regard Major." Hazama sternly said.
"And I will." The Spartan nodded. This elicited stun looks from both Hazama and the Major. A faint smile spread from the mans lips. "Best use for Spartan assets is for combat operations. Though helping out around the camp is a nice change of pace sir."
"Heh, alright then." Hazama turned to Yanagida. "Lieutenant I'll leave him in your care for now. Get him out of the armor, bathed, and to medical for the examination. I will meet up again at the parade grounds at 1245."
"As for the rest of you," He called out to the group in the native Falmartian dialect. "We will be bring in our healers soon so that we can check up on your well being. Along with that we will be registering your names for our books. The nice folks of Third Recon will be helping out, isn't that right?"
All of Third that was there gave a loud "Yes Sir!" that brought a smile to Hazama.
"Good. Sergeant Major Kuwahara you are in charge in place of Lieutenant Itami."
There was some snickering in the crowed from the JSDF troops. It wasn't a secret that Itami was being punished by higher-ups. This brought a smirk to his face knowing that he was given the honors of trying out The Pit before the Spartan, much to the mad men of combat engineering protests.
Kuwahara gave a salute before rounding up everyone. As he was doing this the Spartan grabbed his helmet off the ground. "Don't suppose you and the Lieutenant will be watching me undress now?" His emerald eyes moved between the Major and Lieutenant.
The younger recoiled a bit in fear while the older just sneered. "Observation is observation."
"I know," He dusted off the bottom of the helmet "When I do it however, I'm not obvious about it." Placing the helmet in the crook of his left arm he looked at all three of them again. "Which way Lieutenant Yanagida?"
He motioned for them to follow. "Not far from here. Hopefully we have what you need."
"I'll make do Lieutenant."
Though the walk was short by all accounts it was enough time for Six to observe the people ahead of him. Lieutenant Yanagida reminded him of a few ONI agents he met. Slicked back hair, neat pressed uniform, an air of cunning. Someone that would if given a chance would backstab you for a promotion. In another life he could very well be an ONI agent.
On the opposite side of the spectrum was Lieutenant Yoshina. An almost copy of the Major physically, but with a few subtle variations. Her demeanor was far from the older. Eyes where always looking down if they where not quickly glancing back at him. No confidence in the way she caries herself, slight fidgeting here and there. Not the type to go into an intelligence division of a military. Six would have chalked it up to her putting on an act if not for the fact that he could tell the subtle difference between real and acted ticks.
Major Yoshino was agitated the entire walk. In her native language she was conversing with Lieutenant Yanagida. Stealing glances his way thinking that he didn't notice. Six could tell that he was, or part of, whatever conversation. Yanagida started to become agitated too from whatever they where talking. That ended when they came up to one of the garages.
"Well here we are." Yanagida rapped at one of the garage doors which opened.
Six hummed a bit as he took a step inside. Servicemen and women where all running around unloading crates and boxes. Few where setting up cabinets while others hooked up machinery to new power outlets. The bays where there should be vehicles where empty, and the air smelled of fresh paint then motor oil.
Few of them stopped what they where doing to look up at him. Murmurs and hushed whispers started as he just strolled by them all. Yanagida in the meantime was talking to a few of the crew. They all gave a nod with a thumbs up aimed at him.
"Alright," Yanagida clapped together his hands "Crew Chief told me you can use anything you need. He's insistent seeing as their new tools will be working on power armor for the first time."
For some time Six went through several toolbox worth of equipment. Carefully curating them on a workbench, each one test fitted to each bolt on the suit. Though specialized equipment was needed to don and doth Mark V[B] armor Six over the years developed work around with common tools. Several times did it come in handy with emergency field repairs, another he used it to rig his suit into a makeshift nuke. Wasn't the best day as he still remembers the ass reaming he got from none other then Admiral Margaret Parangosky. Only reason it wasn't worse was the fact that it took out a major Covenant facility that needed to be brought down.
While he was doing this both Yoshino's had set up their camera equipment. Again conversations where exchange that he wouldn't understand between the two. The younger flinched a bit after some venom was thrown her way. Yanagida leaned against the wall with a few others as he watched intently.
Placing the last tool he needed Six asked "Lieutenant Yanagida, is there a crate I can use?"
The Lieutenant turned to the man beside him who nodded. Whistling to someone across the building he ordered them to come. A serviceman dragged over a large metal crate with some heft. Once placed before him Six opened it to find it empty of anything but the jet black foam lining. Giving a slight smile he thanked the man who returned it.
It felt like a lifetime ago since the armor had been placed on him. It was well before he made planet side on Reach with the latest iteration of his specifications. His eyes gazed at the helmet that sat on the workbench. Probably the only original thing from his first set. The Mark V [B] was an ONI special in that it featured internal recording systems built right in instead of the standard HUL. Further specialized by his hands with up armor attachments and the replaced silver visor.
With a mental command through his neural lace the suit began to power down. Lights of the shield emitters dimmed, and he could feel the weight of the suit. Working top down he went to work on his arms. The TACPADs housing clicked and popped out. One of the few personal things of his that he had. Not many know it but in the rare off times he had Six would review past missions that he copied from the official recordings he handed. It all went back a good six or so years, transitioning from SPI to Mark IV to finally Mark V. It was a miracle this device survived those years, the three others before weren't that lucky.
Gingerly placing the gauntlets it only took a bit to unhook each ODST pads. Originally he utilized FJ/PARA, but with his time with the 101st he wanted to honor them in his own strange way. He could still hear Commander Maria's voice.
"I don't give a fuck if you're a Spartan. You're a Helljumper in my book and welcome to go to Hell with us any time!"
Fate would have him fight side by side with her and the rest of the company again. Fate had also dragged each and everyone of them to Hell. All but him.
It took some time to take off the torso plating. Finding it hard to find good room for it in the crate Six had opted to reconnect the front and back shell together. Much easier to carry both it and the crate then to haphazardly cram it in.
While this was all going on Major Yoshino and Yanagida watched intently while the rest looked on in awe. Lieutenant Yoshino was mesmerizer by the display. Six couldn't help but give a few glances at her before saying "Enjoying the show?"
This caused her to quickly turn away leaving a ghost of a smile on Six. The Major was not amused as she whispered something to the younger causing her to wince. Yanagida simply rolled his eyes while mouthing "Mecha otaku." He chuckled a bit at the slight brow raise that Six let slip.
The legs only took a bit more with him shuffling about to reach places. The Softcase was set aside with the TACPAD as it contained more "fragile" items. FJ/PARA knee guards easily came off. Six never understood why something like this wasn't standard for Mark V armor. It gave much needed protection while offering the same flexibility as not wearing it. Sometimes he wondered if it was something arbitrary like "budget" like anything within the UNSC.
When all was done Six was left with nothing but his Techsuit. The final piece of Titanium A plating patted down into the crate. All in all it roughly took him seven minutes, a new record for him by all accounts. It helped that he had tools this time instead of using his knife.
"How much does all that weigh?" Major Yoshino questioned.
"Roughly over half a ton." Six closed the lid, satisfied that it all fit in sans the torso armor.
"There's no way you can carry..." Her words soon died out as without effort Six hefted the crate.
With one hand he held it on his shoulders. Bending down slightly he lifted the torso armor in the other hand. His display of strength sent alarm bells within the Major. Lieutenant Yoshino and Yanagida on the other hand just looked dumbfounded with the rest of the shop.
"So," Six turned to Yanagida "Showers are...?"
The Lieutenant snapped out of it. "Oh. Uh... This way."
"Name?"
"Valeria." She fidgeted a bit as the man in green did something with that strange device in front of her. Clacking sounds came and stopped.
"Last name?" He asked.
"Last name?" she parroted.
He looked back from from the device. "Oh, uh family name?"
Valeria looked at him oddly. "But I'm a simple peasant."
The man had a blank stare till something clicked within him. "Oh, OH! Right societies like this wouldn't have that." He cupped his hand under his chin while tapping a finger on his lips. Muttering a bit he soon asked "Should I put down your mothers name then?"
"Why would you?" Her head cocked.
"Better to tell others apart if they have the same name." Pausing a bit he added "Though guess it also helps that we're taking photos too."
"Photo?" Valeria never heard of such a word or what it could mean.
"Well full word is photograph. Think of it like a very detailed portrait that is instantly created." He couldn't help but laugh at the face Valeria made from that explanation. "Maybe a demonstration is in order."
There was a few more clicks from the device. Adjusting it a bit he tapped on a spot "Okay going to need you to look directly at this spot."
Valeria did as she was told. Another click from it made him smile "There we go." Turning the device around her eyes grew wide.
There where only a few times that Valeria could clearly see herself. Mirrors where close to unheard of from her old village. A traveling merchant once came by with one and it amazed her. A few other times the creek near her would be clear enough to see her reflection. This however was different. Her image was small on this strange portrait, and unmoving. Yet her likeness was so uncanny that it sent a chill down her spine.
Leaning in she asked "How did you do that?"
"Technology." His tone was mater of fact.
"Technology..." She mauled over that word even as he asked more question. When she was born, other family she has besides her mother. Education, skills, the list went a bit on till he sat back.
"Well that's that. Now if you don't mind waiting a bit over by that tent our healers will call you in shortly." The Man in Green smiled as she left.
Still in a bit of a daze over the fact that these people could just copy her likeness on these strange machines. Or the fact that they possess things like horseless carriages, miniature suns built into ceilings, and water that just flows out from thin air. All this that is magic, but not magic at the same time.
"Amazing isn't it?"
Valeria jumped from the voice. She had not expected someone so close to come up from behind. Shock soon turned into embarrassment as The Apostle of Emroy stood there. Her face beaming at the startled girl.
Valeria quickly bowed low to the ground. "Your Holiness," She stammered "Forgive me as I did not see you there."
A slender finger touched her chin forcing her head up. Rory still had that bright face that soften with humility. "Now now child. None of that here in this refuge."
"Your Grace?"
Her smile widen a bit. "Or that either. Just call me Rory."
The peasant girl was hesitant. "Yes yo- Rory."
"Better." She pulled her hand away letting Valeria straighten upright. "Did the Man in Green took your "portrait" too?"
"Yes. It is unbelievable what these men could do." She held excitement in her voice. "Instant painting, flame less lights, warm soft bedding, and the food they have given us is just beyond words!" That brightness she had for that scant moment soon dissolved away. A thought struck her "How are we to repay for this?"
Rory hummed in thought. "Cato was thinking the same thing. Living expenses for such luxury would even have Molt paying a high price."
"And we are mostly children and a few adults." Her face became grim. "You... You don't think we might have to whore ourselves out your Holiness?"
The thought alone was giving her a panic attack. Dark memories of the nights before at the hands of bandits where screaming to the surface of her mind. So close was she to loosing her honor, her mother wasn't so lucky as she.
Those thoughts soon retreated as a warm feeling spread from her shoulder. Rory had placed her hand on her. Scarlet eyes filled with concern pooled into her own. Comfort washed over here as the voice of the Apostle rang all around.
"Calm yourself child."
Air hitched in her throat, like a knot undone did her breathing returned. Never realizing the panic attack that was creeping into her. Tension eased throughout with the warmth. Satisfied with her work the warmth receded all the way back to the palm.
The connection broke as the Demi-goddess stepped back. "Better?"
"Yes." She softly answered. "Thank you your... Thank you Rory."
A reassuring smile spread on Rory's lips. "I, Cato, your mother, and a few others are gathering tonight. Most of us have our concerns that will be discussed. You are welcomed to join us if you like."
Valeria was surprised at this. "You want me to join?"
"Of course."
Her smile returned at this. "Alright then what time?"
"After supper." Rory began to walk away. "Don't be late now Daughter of Cassiopeia."
Valeria sighed as she watched the Apostle walk off with one of the other world healers.
Six let the warm water wash over his body. It flowed down the scared indents of his skin like a red tinted canal. Scars both inflicted by fire, bullet, shrapnel, and scalpel. Muddied water pooled around the drain by his feet. Months of dirt and sweat shed off the pale flesh.
He couldn't help but feel vulnerable in this instance. Spartans had always worn their armor for most their life. Whether it was SPI or Mjolnir it did not matter. They ate and slept in that armor. It had become much a part of a Spartan as the very skin on their bodies.
Pealing away the Techsuit had always been an ordeal with Six. On a physical level it felt like he was ripping off his own skin. Physiological he didn't want to see the scars sustained from both the augmentations and those he had sustained as a child.
Ackerson's voice began to whisper to him.
"Congratulations three twelve. You have been chosen out of all of BETA Company to undergo specialized augmentation procedures."
Muscles in his hand tightened as he remembered the smug look the man had after that ordeal.
"See Lieutenant Commander? Three twelve made it through the operation."
Kurt's voice was cold in his mind.
"He died on that table seven times."
"And seven times we revived him." Ackerson shot back. "The results so far have been favorable. Both biological and cybernetics have taken hold."
That smug look of his gazed down on his semiconscious form. Never realizing that he could hear both men talking by his bedside.
"If it is to believe this one would surpass his peers, and you."
The knob of the showers almost broke as he twisted them. He let the last of the water drip off him as he leaned on the wall. Teeth clenched as the simmering rage he had boiled over a bit.
"I hope to God a Brute rips your fucking head off Ackerson."
It took only a short bit to calm down. Stepping out of the stall and into the locker room he was glad that none of the others where in there. Hazama had posted a few MP's outside to make sure no one, including the Intelligence Agents, would disturb him. Reaching into the dufflebag provided by Lieutenant Yanagida he found all the clothing he needed.
Lifting up the shirt Six frowned a bit. Already he could tell that the shirt itself would be a tight fit for his broad frame. Doing the same appraisal of the other clothing provided he had to let out a sigh. The boots when compared to his feet fell just short of the tips of his toes. The same could be said for the socks being small.
By some miracle both boxers and shorts fit. Mostly the boxers, the clothing covering it was just loose enough to move around without the fabric tearing. The shirt however was drum tight all around.
"Guess it will have to do." He grunted out.
Closing up the bag and plopping it down on the crate, he bent down to lift only to stop short. Ripping fabric reverberated throughout the room as warm air hit his pail skin. Glancing to his back a massive tear running down his spine all but split it in two.
"God damn it." He muttered as he tried to reach back. Flexing his arms caused more tears into the abused fabric. "Fine then."
Gripping the collar Six ripped it in twine. There was no way he would mess around getting it off like he did getting the damn thing on. Dumping the now destroyed shirt in the nearest trash bin he hefted the crate and torso armor again.
Walking out he was greeted by the trio of Officers and the few MP's around. Lieutenant Yoshino was the first to see him out the door. The young woman's face turned beat red at the visage of the shirtless Spartan. Major Yoshino's mouth went slightly agape, brows shot up in surprise. Head bobbing up and down as she gazed over the extensive scars. The MP's however stepped back from the unamused look that Six was giving everyone.
Yanagida on the other hand pinched the bridge of his nose forcing up his glasses. "Knew that it wouldn't fit."
"You got the pants right Lieutenant." Six motioned to the locker room. "Boots and the rest where too small."
"That was an XXL shirt. Biggest we had on hand." Yanagida placed both hands on his hips as he shook his head. "Going to have to do custom orders for you."
"Or I could just continue wearing my armor." Six shrugged.
"... The half ton armor?" Yanagida gave him a look.
"Yes, the half ton armor." Six flippantly answered. "Lieutenant Yanagida I have worn this armor months at a time. Surly I could continue doing so."
He opened his mouth to speak, but quickly closed it. Deep in thought for a few seconds, brows furrowing more and more. Finally sighing "That can't be good for you."
"Yet was engineered for long term operations." Six lifted the torso armor up. "To you being stuck in armor wouldn't be good. I however take comfort in it."
"So what you eat and sleep in that suit?" Major Yoshino questioned.
Six couldn't help but smirk a bit. "Most the time standing."
Before she could say anything he interrupted "Anyways I believe I have a medical examination to get to, Lieutenant Yanagida."
"Right," He sighed "Wouldn't want to keep Kurokawa waiting on her patient."
Though the Major was pissed Six ignored her. Right now he was more concerned with getting through the day with the JSDF's poking and prodding.
"Shino no."
"Mari yes!" The short Sergeant yelled.
Mari narrowed her eyes. It had been no secret that her friend had a thing with "sparing" with the opposite sex. If she found a guy interesting, or wanting a challenge, she would challenge them to a match. A weird way of flirting in her eyes. "You are not asking him of all people to spar with."
Shino huffed while placing her hands behind her head. "And why not?"
"Did you not see him fight that dragon the other day?"
She clicked her tongue waving it off. "That had to be the armor he was wearing."
"Uh-huh." Mari was annoyed.
"It's power armor. If it's anything like in media it enhances people."
Mari raised a brow "Thought you don't watch that sort of thing?"
"Doesn't mean I over hear that stuff." She shot back. "Remember I've been assigned with Kurata multiple times. He wouldn't shut up about that stuff."
"Fair," Mari sighed "But I still think it's a dumb idea to challenge him."
She thought for a moment before asking "Are you doing this out of the thrill, or something more?"
"Thrill." she quickly answered. Too quick in Mari's mind. "Look, that "Spartan" or whatever is a commando from the future. Now when in my life would I get the chance to fight someone from the future?" A shit eating grin spread from her lips.
"So the novelty of it all?" Mari questioned.
"That, and the past few guys I challenged where too chickenshit to fight me."
Mari crossed her arms under her chest. "That's because they didn't want to go up against "The Oni"."
Shino groaned "And that's the fucking problem!" She held up a fist and started to articulate with flipping up an index finger. "Either they are too chickenshit to fight me," A second finger shot up. "Try to go easy on me and get their ass kicked," A third finger shot up last "Or they actually try and still get their ass kicked."
"Well you are the JSDF's top CQC expert." Mari stated matter of fact.
She groaned even louder even with her face in both palms. "I neeeeeeeeeeed a challenge."
She then looked up from her palms with fire in her eyes. Mari had to scoot away from her on the bench they sat on. Teeth clenched as she made her proclamation "I'm going to fight this man. Maybe he could give me a worthy fight? Maybe he will disappoint? Either way I get to claim I fought a future-"
Her eyes caught something to the side. Soon they went wide as dinner plates causing Mari herself to turn to see. Needless to say she was taken aback at who was approaching.
The Spartan she had seen without the helmet. Extensive burn scaring on the side of his head that had eaten away at his ear. Few other gouges from either blades or shrapnel she wouldn't know. But here he was with nothing but shorts on. In one hand the large armored piece of his suit, the other he shouldered a large metal crate with probably the rest of it. His body was just as scared. Burns, punctures, ragged slashes, but oddest of all was the clean lines that run all over.
"Holy shit you can shred cheese on those." Shino whispered nodding to his abs.
True enough the Spartan was built like an Olympian. If she had to guess it was a life times worth of toning and extensive exercise to get to that point. Yet in the back of her mind it didn't seem right. It was almost too perfect, like being engineered.
He stopped in front of the two and looked down. In turn they both looked up. With a curt nod to each he greeted them. "Sergeant Kurokawa, Sergeant Kuribayashi."
"Hello Spartan." Mari greeted him in english.
"He-hello." Shino parroted the same greeting. She nervously laughed as the man continued to look down on her. Glancing over to Mari she whispered "Little help?"
"Alright Spartan, your starting to scare the poor girl." His attention was now all on her which made her a bit nervous.
"Apologies Ma'am." His voice was genuine at that.
"No problem." She smiled "Not many are use to being around someone with your..." Mari took a quick glance at everything the Spartan showed "... Stature."
His face harden a bit. "Take it it's the scars?"
"Well, part of it." She took another cursory look. His complexion was way too pale like he never been out in the sun. The scar tissue that ran across his skin didn't do him any favors either. "I assume that some of the clothing fit?"
"Tore the shirt with a simple flex lifting this." He hefted the crate a bit to make a point.
"Well good news, the medical facility doesn't have a "no shoes, no shirt" policy" Mari chuckled.
He looked at her a bit funny "No shoes, no shirt?"
"What, they don't have that in the future?"
Before the Spartan could reply Lieutenant Yanagida stepped in. "Apologies Sergeant Kurokawa. I had to take the Major and Lieutenant to the side to... "hash out" a few things." His voice was in a sneer at the end as his eyes moved back to the two women that were joining them.
Leaning to the side she could see one of them carrying a camera and equipment with them. Her face contorted into an a frown of annoyance as she asked "Are you bring that into the exam room?"
"Yes Sergeant Kurokawa," The Major was just as annoyed with them when speaking. "We have the go ahead to record the examination of the Spartan."
"What happened to doctor patient confidentiality?" Shino pipped up.
"That's only recognized on Japanese soil." The Major narrowed her eyes at the other woman.
"Strange. Thought we are on Japaneses soil?" Mari cocked a brow at the Major.
Yanagida sighed "Internationally it hasn't been recognized as such." A burning glare was shot at the Majors way. "A loophole that the Military Intelligence Department is happy to exploit."
"Mad?" The Major sarcastically said.
"Very." Yanagida and Mari said as one.
Sighing heavily Mari stood up. "Alright," She said in english "Mr Spartan if you would follow me please."
The Spartan did as he was told taking a slow lock step behind her. The others followed suit leaving Shino behind.
"I'll see you guys later I guess." She called out just as the automatic doors to the facility closed.
Authors notes:
Ugh, not the best chapter but had to cut it short since it was going long. Otherwise was burning out already with I real life stuff taking most my spoons.
In other news with some of my other projects I'm going to say it now but I'm a bit stuck with Wayward Souls.
Originally the survivor of the Savanna was going to be a UNSC Engineer. Then had the idea of having both her and a soon to be decommissioned smart A.I. That sprung some rather interesting ideas in itself concerning Cerberus, Sovereign, and EDI. Now most my focus is on her then the engineer so really I'm wondering if I should just ditch that character all together and keep the AI. This will also mean that I have to scrap chapter 3 and start over.
As for Obsolete Warfare I just don't have the thought process right now for it as my main focus has now been with Chosen and Wayward, with the later being worked on a bit less and less for the past few weeks.
So yeah if anyone want's to throw in your two cents go right ahead. Along with that would be very appreciative if people point out mistakes with grammar and spelling too. One of these days I will be going back and fixing all that.
Oh one last thing... Should I do chapter titles too with Chosen?