⟨Bright White Light⟩
Once visibility improved I realized that we're now inside a spacious yet decrepit warehouse... I then manipulated reality in the way which I recall hence in a sudden burst of speed and momentum, as intended I instantly collided to an enemy which knocked him back a few meters away, certainly either unconscious or dead as a result... suddenly in anticipation, utilizing my combat shovel I timely deflect a bullet back against an enemy, I then immediately dodge back in anticipated response albeit instinctually when an enemy teleported in front of me... fortunately too, since she already swung her modified machete at me, calculatedly... I then transition to timely deflect back another bullet against an enemy before I dodge again, luckily her attack set herself up, utilizing my combat shovel and with the help of my celerity I sliced off her forearm then smack her face which certainly dented her skull as a result.
... Juno immediately propelled the amputated limb which was still mid-air by this point somewhere via telekinesis, presumably directed to an enemy, meanwhile as I then transition my blow to throw my combat shovel towards somewhere specific behind me to the right, intended for an enemy... my execution was instant, plus instinctually I made it so that the speed and momentum of my weapon as a projectile was amplified, intended to guarantee the kill... I timely dodge back in anticipation hence I avoid getting hit by a bolt of electricity as Juno then piloted me before a streak of bullets then sensibly pass through us.
She raised her right hand to aid in reality manipulation hence the streak of incoming bullets were then being deflected astray, away from us, she then focused the incoming bullets back against a multitude of enemies thus gunning them down, including the shooter which was a Brute... once the enemy Brute got killed, utilizing her ethereal albeit spiritual bodily composition she then timely dodge three simultaneous shots of potent bolts of electricity directed at her... immediately after, I was propelled backwards a couple of meters away from her, conveniently too hence I was still standing... I was surprised, more so when I collided to an enemy, looking immediately behind me, he was away from me on the floor a few meters away, certainly either dead or knocked out as a result of the collision, I then looked back at Juno, to unsurprisingly see that she's was managing well on her own.
Suddenly, an enemy appeared in front of me who already calculatedly swung his melee weapon at me upon appearance... utilizing my celerity I manage to timely dodge in response before I punched him on the face, unfortunately, these were one of those instances wherein my attack wasn't hard enough thus it only bloodied his face and dazed him as a result... but before he could fall back though, I utilized him as a meat shield in response to my anticipation... as a result, expectedly the 3 anticipated enemies appeared ahead of me who all immediately began shooting at me... I meanwhile unholstered the pistol of the enemy which I'm utilizing as a meat shield or bullet sponge at the moment.
... anyway, my intention of shooting the trio was then interrupted when I immediately dodge to my left in anticipation, turning as I aim my pistol to the shooter... the projectile of the Tau Cannon hit the corpse I was utilizing as a meat shield as a result, immediately, I manipulate reality in this particular way that I recall hence familiarly everything became absurdly slow at an instant... from my perspective, red hue was all-around like vague or subtle smoke as I instinctually mitigate the effect of time on myself, my gun, and its bullets... once done the visual aspect as a result of my manipulation didn't change.
Digressing, I shot the enemy who shot at me using a Tau Cannon, immediately after, I turn around to shoot the 3 enemies who I originally intended to shoot before being interrupted to dodge... fortunately, I got used to the pain that'll follow as a consequence hence I was able to endure it more enough to shoot hence kill 6 enemies nearby Juno... this particular means of manipulating reality is where time fundamentally affects perception and perspective... for Juno and the enemies it's nothing like in real-time, thus everything that I did in that momentary duration from my perspective will be perceived as executed instantly for them... Auditors like Juno are exemptions because she can sense this and if she wanted to, she can effortlessly be in alignment with my manipulation... anyway, I quit my manipulation since the pain was too much, immediately after resuming an enemy appeared in front of me.
I was disarmed, he then slashed my face or my H.P. Mask, immediately after, I timely dodge to my left to disarm him of his weapon before I elbowed him on the face, unfortunately, it wasn't hard enough for the enemy again thus he was only dazed and had a bruised face, as he staggered back... by this point I manage to learn how to utilize telekinesis which was at some point during one of our restless fights as we continue to flee... as to how, it was through Juno, specifically her cognitive means whenever she utilizes telekinesis... I levitate the enemy's machete then manipulate reality conveniently to propel it somewhere specific ahead, as intended, the weapon timely stabbed the anticipated enemy who then appeared there.
... concerning my execution, I had to timely raise my right hand as I utilized telekinesis for the sake of added reassurance for the intended motion and accuracy... anyway, immediately after killing the enemy at the distance I manipulated reality on myself hence in a sudden burst of speed and momentum, I propelled myself backwards, somewhere specific to the right of me, as intended, to collide to the anticipated enemy which certainly either killed him or knocked him out as a result... luckily, it just so happens that his or her weapon had no sling hence the enemy's gun was still mid-air at this point, utilizing telekinesis I got the gun before I looked back at the enemy whom I elbowed on the face, aiming from the hip I then begin shooting at him.
The enemy in response timely jump twirled away from my line of fire, my focus was then interrupted when I had to turn back as I swung the butt of my gun, as intended I timely hit the anticipated enemy who appeared there, dazing and disarming him of his melee weapon, I then quickly followed it up by smacking him in the head again utilizing the gun, this time it certainly knocked him out... suddenly, in anticipation I turn around to timely parry an attack from an enemy before in a smooth tactical transition I hit his face via the barrel of my gun, which made him stagger back... I then shot him twice in the face before I realized he was the one whom I've elbowed on the face... suddenly, Juno appeared in front of me, mistaking her as an enemy I shot her, unsurprisingly to no effect, she resided back within me before piloting me.
"This is it, don't you dare die until then," Juno remarks albeit threateningly in my mind, as she simultaneously killed all the currently present enemies.
Immediately after I hear the familiar gradually amplifying static noise which then became deafening before I then felt myself about to pass out-
⟨Darkness⟩
My eyes open albeit slowly meanwhile as the snowfall lightly falls to the ground and on me as I stare at the grey sky... I realized that I'm at the front of a decrepit warehouse which reminded of what happened, immediately, I sit up as a result... my intention of not being at this disadvantage, laying down, was then interrupted when burst of memories potent of melancholy and regrets... these memories were belonging to a sample of my variants about an unforgettable experience in the context of their own life... it's uncalled presentation was like a compilation, in the end of it all, the memories that stood out the most was the context wherein Juno was at her prime still, and that I was an ignorant conscript of hers... realizing and discovering too late of what I was actually doing... I was impulsively tense as I try to stifle my impulse to want to punch something, and although it was only for a couple of seconds, it enraged me and also only added more to my self-destructive or suicidal albeit self-contentious notions in mind... after all, the things I'm aware and what I've done are facts I can't be forgiven, I can't unsee... but I managed to get a hold of myself.
... still a tad bit tense I directed my focus to the present, it's then I now only realize that I'm wearing different clothing, specifically, I was now wearing a comfy black hoodie jacket coupled with black body armor, I wore gray cargo pants, grey fingerless gloves, and my H.P. Boots... after looking at myself it's only then that I acknowledge that there's something on my head and covering the sides of my head, which was a black ushanka... not an ordinary one or piece of wear, it was specialized and modified by Juno hence it looked exclusive which it was... my headgear was coupled with my personalized H.P. Mask, and although both were already conveniently equipped onto my head, I wasn't sure yet at that moment if it was indeed my H.P. Mask but I assumed or guessed that it was.
"Iris?" I asked intended for her.
"I'm here," Iris replied which made me impulsively let out a sigh of relief.
I then acknowledge the fact that at this point, Juno's plan seemingly had worked, I also realize that my impulsive tendencies of shaking or twitching because of sheer PTSD, alternatively rage, was now not as intense and consistent anymore unlike before, it's now subtle... digressing, I was about to ask her where we are until an authoratative female voice then yelled somewhere off to my right which startled me.
"Привет! Встань и не двигайся!" she authoritatively exclaims at me which made me look at her before I stand up.
Now standing on the snow road, waiting in compliance, she was with two other people... they all were wearing black tactical clothing and combat equipment, in addition, they also concealed their face via a black balaclava... they all had SMGs specifically AK-74Us as their primary weapon... they hastily albeit cautiously approach me with their weapons aimed at the ready... considering the environment, basing from observation alone, I was specifically somewhere in an abandoned industrial complex or compound which I assumed at the time, Iris then spoke.
"They're human Haunt," Iris comments which confused me for a second, until I realized it was a reminder.
After a tense brief moment of quietly waiting for them...
"Поднимите обе руки вверх," she said as she and her two comrades got within a cautious distance away from me, in a spaced line formation which I complied.
"PMCs, government-employed, their I.D. relevant to their employment is redacted," Iris meanwhile said in response to my thoughts.
"Назовите себя," the female then said.
"Iris?" I asked in mind.
"Сейчас!" she abruptly continued, threateningly.
"I don't know your name yet apart from Haunt," Iris immediately replied, sensibly worried.
"... Мои друзья называют меня Хаунтом... Я машинист," I replied to the presumable leader of the trio.
Iris meanwhile informed me in the same manner as Juno's trivial or effortless anomalous means, she informed me that the leader of the trio is in contact with someone via an earpiece device, plus I'm being watched live via a secret body camera that's on their tactical combat vest.
After a tense and awkward brief moment of silence between us all...
"Кирилл, сопровождайте Диму в обыске склада," the leader of the trio said as I had that familiar sense of danger.
In a fast sequence, her comrades in response lowered their weapons intending to go inside the warehouse behind me, meanwhile the leader then quickly raised her gun a bit for presumably aiming her gun at my head, in anticipation I instantly albeit timely dodge hence I wasn't shot, I then manipulated reality hence in a sudden burst of speed and momentum I instantly closed the distance between us... I grabbed her weapon to conveniently twist it to the side thus the barrel of her gun is now aiming at her left, meanwhile as I press it against her chest, I then swiftly hit her in the face utilizing her firearm... anyway, I then followed it up with a kick to her abdomen thus she staggered back as she bowed in pain as I pulled her weapon back, untethering the sling of her firearm off of her... at this point, her two comrades has now only realized what just happened.
"Говно!" one of them impulsively exclaimed in surprise.
After I unsling her weapon I then swiftly fall on the ground conveniently on my back, I lay there conveniently prone as I shoot thus killed both the two enemies before they could shoot me, immediately, I aimed my gun back at the leader of the trio to timely see her pull out her sidearm, in response I shot it out of her hand before both her legs thus she screamed in pain as she falls to the ground, kneeling, I then get up whilst maintaining my aim at her.
"Мне жаль," I said.
"Отъебись!" she replied before I shot her in the head.
I utilized the sling of her weapon hence the gun is now conveniently sticking by me before going to one of the dead men, intending to loot... I took off a pistol holster and equipped it for the Makarov pistol I looted, fortunately the pistol holster had two pistol mag carriers which enabled me to bring two spare mags for my sidearm.
"There's an active jammer somewhere, its coverage is the entirety of the complex," Iris said.
"Just my luck," I replied, unhappy with my new circumstances after my departure from Juno, and also the tied predicament.
Digressing, I stood up then hastily headed towards the direction where I presume the trio came from, cautious and wary that something big is going on in this place which I didn't want to be part of... unfortunately, I already am by this point.
After a distant cautious trek...
I saw three people in the same equipment and clothing as the trio that I've killed, I ducked behind a concrete cylindrical tube that was nearby... although I was out in the open for a bit, luckily I wasn't detected... I peeked cautiously out from my cover to see all three hastily and warily heading to the area where I killed their comrades... two additional personnel then catch up to them from behind which only further convinced me that I'll be up against numerous enemies by my lonesome, which was familiar in alignment to the histories that are relevant and that I recall, to my annoyance or irritation.
"The one they're in contact is talking, comms?" Iris asked intended to suggest.
"Yeah do it," I replied hence she connected me to this medium my enemies were utilizing to communicate.
"-worthwhile still, earn your paychecks people," a man said via their comms who's presumably their C.O.
"Especially now that I'm watching... if somehow you all succeed in not being disappointments, then expect to be celebrate," this man continued before there's radio silence.
"... I'm sorry Haunt," Iris apologetically said, referring to how we didn't benefit at all from tapping into their comms.
"You did nothing wrong, don't worry," I replied, meanwhile as the group of enemies went away out of my line of sight.
"My first day in and I'm already being hunted," I comment as I continue my way, adjusting my route onwards.
"Disconnect?" Iris asked intended to sever my connection from the enemies comms.
"Yes," I replied.
After some time of stealthily maneuvering and countable instances of utilizing parkour to stay hidden, eventually...
I peek out from my cover to see the vehicles of the enemies which were parked nearby an entrance, I noticed all the black vans had a red insignia or logo... specifically, it was a flame or a fire emblem that had outer circles which almost encircled it... there were two enemies guarding the area, I then spoke.
"Keys?" I asked in mind intended for Iris, referring to our enemies.
"Only this one, but considering the likelihood of different key slots hence I don't know yet which specific van, especially the ones you that you can see now," Iris replied as she highlighted the person on my HUD or U.I.
"I myself is also downgraded to an extent," she adds which I absentmindedly nod in response.
After a bit of quietly contemplating...
I scrapped my original plan, alternatively I decided to hotwire one of the parked vans instead after I take out all the sentries or guards nearby.
"Should I disable their body cams?" Iris asked which reminded me.
"... when I'm about to guarantee the person is out, which is before I attack someone," I replied.
"Will do," Iris replied which I nod before I made my move.
Eventually...
I knocked out 3 out of 4 people who were guarding the area where the parked vans are, by this point the only one left was beyond the gate of the entrance and exit of this industrial complex... fortunately, he was smoking and oblivious hence like his comrades before him, I easily snuck up behind him then knocked him out... anyway, before I could walk away his radio made an indicating noise of it receiving a transmission, a man then spoke through the device.
"Сообщить," he said via the radio comm device, I knelt down then grab the radio, I utilized it albeit intentionally a bit away from my face.
"... Все еще здесь, никаких контактов пока нет, кончено," I responded.
"Где двое других, которые с тобой?" he replied which added to my confidence as a result.
I stood up and intentionally didn't answer back and left the radio on, meanwhile as I walked I then spoke, hoping that the crunch of snow as I stride was relatively audible on his end, intended as a detail to make myself more believable.
"... Я не знаю, они куда-то забрели, эти идиоты," I replied utilizing the radio.
"Они молчат по радио, проверьте свой сектор," he retorts.
"Хорошо, но на всякий случай пришлите немного резервной копии," I replied.
"утвердительный," he replied hence I quit utilizing the radio.
I threw the radio to the ground as I began to go towards one of the parked vans before there was a sudden big explosion, presumably somewhere back in the direction where I came from to get here which was unsurprisingly startling... digressing, I continued on approaching the nearest van.
"Bulletproof," Iris comments referring to the glass windows that are used by the vehicle.
After a brief moment of me forcibly making a sufficient opening on the window of the driver seat for my hand...
I managed through even if it was messy and in a way loud... fortunately luck was on my side since I wasn't interrupted and detected... anyway, after unlocking the door from the other side I went in to begin hotwiring, in the end I succeeded thus giving me control of the vehicle... when I plop back up as my hands grab the steering wheel I see one of the enemies whom I've knocked out slowly sit up, in response I then wasted no time and drove it out of there... when I got onto the road I sped up before I hear gunshots from behind, the shooter was presumably that guy who woken up.
After a moment of quietly driving and contemplating...
I impulsively let out a sigh of relief, content of how I've managed my predicaments, Iris then spoke.
"Utilizing the GPS device that's on the van, we're somewhere in the outskirts of Moscow," she retorts intended to answer my thoughts.
"That explains the Russians" I replied referring to my enemies back at the abandoned industrial complex, she sensibly smiled in response.
After a brief moment of silence as I drive...
"Did Juno leave any instructions or something?" I asked.
"Nope, but she wants us to stay out of trouble," Iris replied.
"... I'll keep that in mind even though I've already failed, evident by our introduction here," I replied.
After some time, eventually...
I've gotten myself onto a highway, plus nothing eventful happened which was a relief... even still I was worried and vigilant since I was certain I was being watched... at this point I was still thinking about my troublesome encounter with those group of people... they weren't the GRU Division P, SCP Foundation or GOC because otherwise they wouldn't be that ill-equipped and incompetent... plus considering the logo or insignia on their vans, it didn't match anything that I recall... digressing, I ultimately decided to search for a city park and stay there for a while and see what happens next... I then thought of ditching this van somewhere secluded as a likely contingency if need be, also as a way to see if one of my suspicions or pessimistic notion was right... considering my new enemies will be looking for a stolen van of theirs.
"Iris, help me find a convenient spot devoid of people to ditch this van," I said.
"Will do," Iris replied.
After a while, eventually...
I arrived at my intended destination, after I conveniently place the AK-74U on the driver seat then close the door, I then walked away from the vehicle intended to view the van from a distance for Iris to entirely scan, trivially or effortlessly.
"Is my suspicion correct?" I asked intended for Iris as I look back at the vehicle.
"Yes," Iris replied as she highlighted all the tracking devices that are integrated within the van.
"Pessimism one, trouble zero," I comment as I hastily stride out of this area.
"So much for the van being a contingency," I add as Iris highlighted a route for me to follow.
"The route will lead you to the nearby city park," Iris said.
"Thank you," I replied.
After some time...
At this point, I'm still hoping that I'll likely seem or look like either a law enforcement personnel or someone who's seemingly an authoritative albeit legal figure considering the fact I'm wearing body armor, my H.P. Mask and I have a holstered Makarov pistol on me that's not concealed carry.
After a while of restless walking in the city...
By this point, it was so far so good since no one has either stopped or questioned me, especially reported to the police because of how potentially seemingly sinister I am, the unconformity of what's norm... anyway, because of my experiences so far of being ignored by the populace for being different, which is amusingly familiar or I'm used to it, I assumed I was alright which I fortunately was... being amongst people especially bustling places was uncomfortable for me yes... my anxiety and pessimism had only made me tense and a bit nervous at times, yes... awhile back as I strode I began checking pockets of my clothing to confirm that Juno wasn't able to provide me basic essentials, like a wallet that contained convenient, generally ample materialistic stuff, like for identification or straight up money... I didn't utilize any of the encountered metros, cabs, or bus stops as a result... on the plus side, I got to see what Moscow in this reality is like, observing the bustling populace and its ongoings as I stride... it was seemingly in alignment with what I recall and deemed as being the consistent norm at first... but as I observed more I realized to an extent, there are "some subtle" things different.
"... I'm guessing my genuine name has to be Russian related, considering the way I spoke back at the... back at the abandoned industrial complex," I comment.
"Juno didn't put it in my database, I've crossed out each of your different names that are deceased or irrelevant, nothing," Iris replied, reassuringly.
"... understood," I replied.
After a moment...
"To be honest, I obviously don't know what the fuck I'm supposed to be doing Iris, like a headless chicken," I comment.
"I'm aware but that's understandable all things considered, you made it this far, you're doing good on your own Haunt hence don't worry," Iris replied, reassuringly and supportively.
I didn't know what to say after that... thinking about it I didn't really acknowledge the fact that at the time I wasn't alone considering she was with me every step of the way, I wish I did but anyway.
"... thank you Iris," I replied which made her sensibly smile, meanwhile as I slowed my pace now intending to calm my nerves as I continue on my journey.
After a while...
I arrived at my destination hence I entered the park, absolutely glad and content that I somehow made it without any trouble... I remained vigilant as I wander, taking in the winter scenery as I stride... there were people present, some were socializing, there were kids playing on the snow, also for some reason even though it's cold out, there were two men in their underwear taking a bath out in a nearby pond.
Eventually...
I found a bench that's in a relatively secluded spot which was perfect for me, I sat there and waited for nothing in particular.
"Welp... we made it," I comment which made Iris sensibly smile in response, genuinely happy for me.
"I guess we'll just be here for a while," I add, my anxiety creeping back into my mind.
"You can always talk to me if you want Haunt," Iris replied which I only nod in response.
After a moment of quietly introspecting...
A sudden unpleasant memory then came to mind thus making me impulsively tense and at the instant want to beat the unliving shit out of the bench I'm currently sitting on... I manage to stifle or smother this urge to do so.
"Fucking, bullshit... I hate- I wanna kill myself dude," I impulsively said to no one in particular.
Tense as my mind is in a fuss whilst both my hands impulsively curled to be fists... I had this lingering hostile notion to punch something or someone repeatedly until I bruised and hurt my knuckles, alternatively until whatever I'm punching is destroyed to the contentment of my impulsiveness and hostility... Iris in response to this sudden development then stimulated or presented positive memories to combat my fit of insanity, which was effective hence it relatively settled my mind and calmed me down.
After a brief moment as I quietly continue to smother my insanity further...
"... how long?" I asked, referring to the length of combat Juno and I fought.
"Three weeks straight, time-wise," she replied.
"... it felt longer," I replied.
"You and Juno fought consistently for a minute, unsurprisingly there were some instances of additional seconds before being able to go to another dimension or reality," she explains.
"... what did Juno do to me, before I woke up outside the warehouse wherein we fought?" I asked.
"She downed your upgrade hence your madness signature is subtle... she also did something to mitigate the likelihood of your repercussions, recalling memories that'll likely harm you and cause you to do something impulsively brash as a result," she explains.
"... that's thoughtful and considerate of her," I replied.
After a moment of silence whilst I'm in deep thought...
"... Iris do you know the truth about why... the histories of my lifetimes are repetitive... melancholic, the brink of madness as a theme, and that I'm virtually a convenient conscript for Juno almost every time?" I asked.
"Juno isn't responsible for the seeming repetitive nature of your tragic ramifications... it's better if you talk about this directly to her when she returns, which is what I think she wants," Iris replied which made me frown.
... immediately out of impulse I wanted to be stern to Iris in response, to gauge her for more answers... she was sensibly nervous and worried as a result but I managed to think straight, especially descipline myself.
"Whatever is happening it's not her fault... she's just doing her job comrade," I thought to myself before I let out a suppressed sigh of impatience, which made Iris sensibly smile albeit saddened.
"I'm sorry," she apologetically said.
"... likewise," I replied, as my hatred for myself and loathe for everything spiked.
I indulge myself in these thoughts hence my sheer hatred for humanity and society grew more, especially since humanity and society had virtually or consistently failed me, evidently proven by time and time again, plus reality to reality... Impulsively, I let out a grunt then huffed as I laid back on the bench trying to further contain the swirling mess that's my thoughts... I also fought the impulsive urge to just let loose all that kindling hatred or aggression that's becoming volatile... impulsively as means to cope, I indulge in those thoughts a bit more thus I imagine other people in my shoes and at that level of madness, that they can't cope and have enough grit to stay sane... the thought of that immediately made me grin then let out an impulsive laugh in response before I stopped myself... I thought how psychotically joyous it would be for me to see them overwhelmed, distraught and to comprehend what it's like to be at that point... yes, these were some of my thoughts at that moment which I ultimately neglect, although in return I allowed it to fester within me... a poison yes, but at least I'm the only one and not anyone else... anyway, I then spoke.
"... so she isn't responsible but?" I asked with sensible restraint in my voice.
"Juno made something but kept it unknown, apart from the fact that it is responsible as to why you're Haunt, especially since you're already or have always been Tether," she replied which confused me a bit.
"... she left it in you that she made something and it's function?" I asked.
"Yes, but as to why I don't know," she replied.
"... what are your thoughts or opinions about it?" I asked.
"Only one for now, to provoke," she replied.
After a moment of silence as I quietly introspect and contemplate...
I then just dropped the subject for now, heeding the words of Iris hence preferring to get my answers when Juno comes back... yes, pessimistic and cynical that I am, I have doubts that she'll indeed come back for me, considering everything that I'm aware of especially about her... it wouldn't surprise me if she didn't... I've got no choice but to hope in the meantime, which I clung onto even if surrounded by doubts... I then have this familiar sense which was directed somewhere specific off to my right, I unsurprisingly heed this hence I look at the source to see a man, a poor homeless or hobo... he had a vodka bottle wrapped in a bag in his hand as he walked towards my direction since he's walking the path which will lead him to me... although he seemingly was drunk enough that it affected the way he walks, pessimistic that I am, I mentally readied myself to defend if need be, meanwhile as I then stared ahead intended to expressively neglect his presence... if I had rubles at the time my demeanor could've been different... yes, I felt guilty of my action, no doubt until Iris spoke.
"He has a concealed suppressed pistol and a pipe bomb," Iris comments, which made me look back at the person hence she highlighted the concealed weapons on him via the HUD or U.I of my H.P. Mask.
"I've already got a bounty on my life, brilliant," I said as I looked back ahead again.
"... there's no publicized bounty about you, not yet anyway, worry less," Iris replied, reassuringly.
"Then this could be interesting," I replied.
After a brief moment of silence as I wait...
"Слава России," the man said, as a greeting and to get my attention.
I looked at him to see that he's now standing at a comfortable distance away from me, near the bench... I only nod in response before I looked ahead again, hoping this man will either go away or get straight to the point of his purpose of approaching me, a man who looks potentially sinister... obviously I was expecting a fight... the bench then gently shuddered, indicating that he's now seated on the bench with me... considering the things I had to deal with, immediately I was annoyed also barely tempted to just confront him about his purpose, but mind over impulse I played along or feign ignorance.
"... Слава людям," I replied.
"Yet in society I'm homeless, mostly treated like dogshit," the man replied which made me look at him, surprised.
"Don't worry, I'm only here to talk without any strings or whatnot," he continued.
"Also I'm not one of Akan's men or mercenaries... my name is Jimmy by the way," he adds before he laid comfortably back on the backrest of the bench.
"... I'm not from here," I said.
"I know, I've been watching you ever since you woke up nearby that warehouse... unfortunate timing and place too since I tipped off Akan's where my alleged location was, but hey I got to obliterate a bunch of his mercenaries still, but I do have to apologize," he explains.
"... could've been worse," I replied.
"It wasn't my intention to get you or anybody else involved," he replied.
"Apology accepted, if that's what you're after," I replied which made him chuckle.
After a brief moment of silence between us...
"... I'm not gonna beat around the bush and just ask you for your help," he said.
"About?" I asked, skeptical.
"The people you encountered back at the abandoned industrial complex, they're working for a bad guy called Akan... I don't know if you're aware but there's this ongoing war down yonder," he replied.
"Akan is taking advantage of this conflict thus he has been killing soldiers, alternatively retrieving corpses that are passable or workable, doesn't matter what side of affiliation, as long as it's for the sake of his project concerning the development of cyber soldiers, notably which only he can control or command," he continues.
"Believe me or not, I know all this because I was one of the nerds that had worked for him in the past... I'm planning to stop Akan but I need all the help I can get," he adds.
"... I don't want to involve myself in this to be honest," I replied.
"Your reluctance and skepticism, I understand... I will never force you or anyone, but just know that Akan needs to be stopped, especially since he's corrupt with power and has already killed many people in his pursuit to achieve his ambitions," he replied before his phone got a message, he brought out his touchscreen phone to read the message displayed on screen.
"Alright, I've got to go," he then said before he utilized his phone hastily for a moment.
He then offered his phone to me immediately which I ultimately took after a couple of seconds of contemplating... the phone was displaying a map of a location, there was a highlighted marker on it pinpointing a spot on the map of this part of the city.
"Just in case you changed your mind, go there and call the only number that's on this phone so I can get you," he said before standing up off the bench.
"... Akan has a lot of resources at his disposal plus his power and influence is absurd enough that he can order his troops to operate and even kill out in public, without having to worry about repercussions or consequences, удачи," he adds before hastily walking away, I look at the phone Jimmy gave to me.
"Deactivate?" Iris asked as she highlighted the tracking device in the phone.
"... yeah," I replied in mind as I tucked the phone in one of the pockets of my cargo pants.
After a moment of quietly contemplating...
"Hey Boo," a familiar female sultry voice then spoke behind me, I immediately looked behind me to see Hesh.
Suddenly, a multitude of unpleasant memories about her entered my mind thus making me impulsively tense, and once again wanting to hurt something or someone... I managed to immediately stifle or smother my impulse albeit with clenched teeth and tense fists... she was wearing a black parka, black beanie, black jeans, and H.P. Boots that are colored red... she was staring at me with a smile on her face as both of her hands were tucked inside a pocket of her parka.
"It's nice to see you making new friends Haunt," she said as she approached me.
I huffed in response before I turned back around to look ahead of me, intended to piss off Hesh which would be surprisingly easy, if she was still in alignment of what I recall about her... I wanted a reaction from her, something brash and disrespectful to the level I expect from her just so that I can give my conscience an excuse to just murder her, brutally and unforgivingly slow too... surprisingly, she let out a sigh before she sat beside me on the bench.
"... how?" I asked as I continue to suppress my kindling loathe and anger.
"It doesn't matter... I'm here now but sadly only for a limited time, since Juno will utilize my being to be able to get back to you, when that happens I'll be gone again as a result... but in the meantime, I'm obviously here to help and accompany you to whatever," Hesh explains.
"... I loathe you for everything... unforgivable," I remark as I look at her, frowning as my contempt, loathe, and anger for her kindled further.
"... I know... I know," she replied looking away from me, defeated and genuinely remorseful.
After a brief moment of awkward silence between us...
"Who's your new friend?" she asked looking back at me, sad still.
"... his name is Jimmy, he wanted me to help him stop this guy named Akan," I replied.
"Do you trust him?" she asked.
"... not really, no," I replied.
After a moment of silence between us...
"I'm aware that when Juno is back she'll be striving to set it right between you two... as a sort of formal closure, in her words... and as formal as she can manage," she comments.
"Fingers crossed," I replied which made her chuckle.
"Then it's good to know that you've already made some progress even without her, she'll be glad I'm sure... c'mon, let's go meet up with your new friend," she replied as she stands up off the bench.
"Jimmy could be lying and-" I said before being cut off by her.
"If your suspicions about him are right then we'll kill him hence that's one bad guy down, but if you're wrong then working with him will lead you to take down a bad guy still... in my eyes, it's a win-win, noh?" she said before she offered her hand to help me up off the bench.
... don't get me wrong, at that moment I still really wanted to kill her, but I'm not entirely hopeless, a means to an end of my impulses, to be controlled... anyway, I look at her face then back to her hand, hesitant, I impulsively let out a grunt before I took her hand hence she helped me stood up off the bench, I then spoke.
"What made you change Hesh?" I asked which made her frown immediately.
"... it doesn't matter now and why should it," she replied, dismissively.
"I won't let this go, answer me," I replied.
"Do you want me to revert to my old stern self which you recall Haunt?" she replied, threateningly.
"Maybe I want you to, give me another reason why I should loathe you," I replied, sternly, as our eyes locked in challenge and hostility.
After a brief moment of tense silence between us...
The sternness of her gaze then softened before her eyes dilate a bit, she then averted her gaze away from me which was a first considering what I recall and know about her, she then spoke.
"... I changed because... you're you, Haunt," she admits as her hands curled to be fists.
Fortunately, I manage suppress or smother my emotions further, plus my conscience convinced me "to be better", as a result my anger was then subsiding gradually as I continue to look at her, agitated in mind, especially considering how I barely held myself back of just murdering, in response to being threatened by her... anyway, Hesh then looked back at me.
"Can we just go, please?" she asked, sensibly saddened which made me look away a bit.
"... yeah, sure," I replied before I took out the phone Jimmy gave to me.
... Jimmy disabled the lock system of the phone hence I was able to utilize it at my discretion, there's an app at the center hence I clicked it which showed me the same thing, the location I should go to if I changed my mind and wanted to help him.
"... alright," I said which got Hesh's attention, there's an awkward pause between us before I just began walking, leading the way to our destination.
After some time...
As I stride with Hesh following beside me, It's now only that I notice some bystanders are giving us looks which are making me both a tad bit nervous and tense as a result.
"... maybe they find it strange that a hot topic like myself is tagging along or following an enigmatic man like yourself Haunt," Hesh comments before smirking.
"... just unnecessary attention... this is likely bad," I retorted a tad bit worried.
"I'm afraid it will be like that until we reach your destination," she replied before she took out then utilized a chapstick.
After a long moment of silence between us...
Hesh suddenly came close by my side before she gently grabbed my right hand via her left, intertwining her fingers on mine meanwhile as I then looked at her, surprised, tense, and also frowning.
"What are you-" I said before being cut off by her.
"I'm doing this so that we'll seem like a couple and not... suspicious and shit, just digress Haunt," she said to which I complied and held her hand in mine as we walked together.
After a while...
I noticed that Hesh's solution worked as intended which was relieving... we both then came to a stop on the sidewalk near the crosswalk we have to take, meanwhile the stoplight was still indicating that it wasn't yet safe to go... Hesh and I just stood there waiting as our hands were still holding each other, the elderly man beside me to my left then spoke.
"Вы двое кажетесь странной парой," he said which made me look at him.
"... Это мы," I replied which made him smile in response.
"Каким был ваш опыт?" he asked.
"... Это были американские горки, хотя и неплохие," I replied which made him chuckle before the stoplight then changed its indication that it's alright to pass now.
"Жизнь - это тоже американские горки, в любом случае, я желаю вам обоим самых счастливых моментов вместе," he said.
"так же," I replied which he nodded in response.
... with a pleased smile on his face, he then crossed the street via the crosswalk which was opposite from where Hesh and I will be going, meanwhile as other people also began to cross the street, she then spoke.
"I didn't understand a word that was said, what was that all about?" Hesh asked as we begin to cross the street together, continuing on our journey.
"... he said that we're an odd couple, and it developed into small talk albeit kinda relevant still," I replied.
"like life being a rollercoaster," I add which made her smile.
"... I can see that... suspense, likely surprising turns of events... no doubt a stimulating ride of emotions, definite points of ascension and drop points... the reality is that it's sickening and fearful but has a lot of potential to be thrilling in some way, even if inconsistent or temporary, at the moment only," she replied before looking at me smiling.
"I can't help but think that you're mocking me, a discreet and subtle means to provoke," I said which made her frown.
"I'm not and have no intention of doing so," she replied, genuinely which I nod in response.
After a moment of silence between us as we walk together...
"What did Juno do in the instances or reality wherein I spoke a different language that's not English?" I asked.
"... she'll make it so that you'll comprehend it, also make you effectively inclined to utilize it as if it was the language you were fond of," Hesh replied.
"Is English the universal language where you all come from?" I asked with doubt in mind, but was curious.
"... I-I don't know... Juno created me in this plane of existence and not where she's from... If you want to know the answer to that, then ask her, not me... but in my opinion, I highly doubt it," she replied.
After a brief moment of silence between us...
"How did you even manage to find me?" I asked which made her pout.
She abruptly stopped hence I also did as well, Hesh then unbuttoned her parka enough that I was able to see that she's wearing a black bustier top within, plus I aslo got to see her midriff as she pulled out her H.P. Mask.
"Juno," she retorts whilst holding her H.P. Mask by one hand.
Presumably noticing that my eyes lingered on her torso for a bit, she then slowly looked down at her bustier top or rather her chest then back to me before grinning, she then tucked her H.P. Mask back within her parka before buttoning her parka to conceal her attractive and fit physique within... meanwhile, I looked around blushing a bit, embarrassed and afraid if anybody saw what she had done, unfortunately countable people did... I even saw a dude giving me a thumbs up from the distance which made me raise a brow in response.
"You could've just told me, let's go," I said as I looked back at her before I hastily continued on, not waiting for her.
I then heard Hesh let out an audible groan from behind, presumably frustrated or annoyed before she jogged a bit to catch up to me... when she was now following beside me she giggled before she spoke.
"Tell me, am I not hot enough for you babe?" she asked which I ignore, she grinned in response.
"If you want we can stress that, but I'm positive you'll give away when I'm bare and clinging onto you for warmth, since where we are, it's rather cold," she continued which made me frown and look at her, she smirked in response.
"But first we'll need a place to be alone, where we will be undisturbed and unheard by anyone, what do you say?" she asked which I ignore, she let out a sigh in response to my indifference.
"... you're no fun," she said.
"From what I recall, I thought your definition of fun involves someone being killed or shot," I replied before I glanced at her to surprisingly see that she was frowning.
"Talking all kinds of shit... if you desire pleasure and lust, then leave me alone and go find someone else to be sick in the head with," I add as my contempt and loathe for kindled.
"The only man I want is you Haunt," she admits.
"Keep talking about this topic and I'll smack your face off in one hit," I impulsively replied, hostility and threateningly as I glanced at her, which made her frown.
"... whatever," she replied, saddened and hurt which I ignored.
After some time, eventually...
Hesh and I made it to the destination which was under a highway... the place was devoid of people and generally looked shady hence we both were vigilant of our surroundings.
"Do you have a weapon Hesh?" I asked.
"Yeah, you?" she replied.
"I have one, don't worry," I replied.
... as instructed, I then utilized the phone to call the only number that was on the phone, it rang twice before someone answered which was Jimmy.
"I'm surprised, no doubt since I expect that it will take you or anyone a day at least... but I'm on the way, stay put," he replied before he hung up.
"Jimmy was seemingly poor or homeless hence it's likely we're gonna be here for a while, waiting," I said as I put the phone in a pocket, Hesh meanwhile shrugged and pouted at me in response.
After a while of waiting and talking with Hesh about random topics she wants to hear my opinion on...
We heard an incoming vehicle before an SUV then came into our view... it stopped ahead of us before the driver got out who was Jimmy, unlike our first meeting though he was now wearing a white long sleeve polo coupled with a side pistol holster on either side, black pants, and black shoes.
"You already managed to make a new friend?" he calls out before closing the door of his vehicle and then making his way to us.
"She and I have a long history together," I replied as I gesture towards Hesh then myself.
After a brief moment of silence between us three...
"Ah, a couple, I assume," he said as he approached us in response, I was expressionless or expressively I wasn't okay with that, but it didn't matter because nobody could see my reaction since I was wearing my mask.
"Welp, I'm always happy to meet new people or rather more potential friends... what made you change your mind, uh... you never did give me your name," he replied.
I then look at Hesh who's standing beside me, she shrugs as she looks back at me in response, I then spoke as I looked back at Jimmy.
"My friends call me Haunt, as to what made me change my mind, she's responsible," I said.
"Oh, what's your name Miss?" he asked looking at Hesh.
"Hesh," she replied.
"Okay, Miss Hesh why-" he said before she cut him off.
"Just Hesh," she said.
"Oh, okay, Hesh why did you convince him, like do you know-" he said before being cut off by her.
"I want us to have some excitement together," she said which jimmy looked at me in response, I just shrugged.
"... okay, to be honest, you two are very strange, but welcomed," he said before continuing back to his vehicle.
He then abruptly stopped to face us with a pointing gesture implying something he has now remembered or recalled, he then looked in a specific direction before he spoke.
"Можешь выходить сейчас, они дружелюбные!" Jimmy calls out.
"At least I hope they're genuinely so," Jimmy adds as he looks back at us.
"We are, believe it or not," I replied.
A guy wearing a black jacket, blue jeans, and white running shoes went out of cover in the distance, he then hastily albeit cautiously went over to us, holding his gun which is a AK-74U, once he was close Jimmy then spoke.
"Ты понимаешь английский?" he asked him which the man just nod in response.
"Good," Jimmy said before he looked back at me and Hesh.
"This is my friend, his name is Henry," he said as he gestured to him, Henry then smiled before he enthusiastically waved at us which both Hesh and I waved back with almost equal enthusiasm.
"He can't talk because his speech module wasn't installed, but he compensates for his adeptness in combat and being a good friend... his proficiency in combat has earned him the title Hardcore Henry in my books, written in blood and gunpowder," Jimmy explains.
"Sounds like a title for an action movie," I hear Hesh mutter before chuckling.
"Before we go, are you both sure about this?" he asked.
"Considering the definite likelihood of death and that we're deviating from lawful principles if you both catch my drift," he continued, Hesh and I looked at each other for a second before back at Jimmy in response.
"Yes," Hesh and I replied, coincidentally in unison.
"... again strange, but digressing onwards," he then said before heading back to his SUV hence all three of us followed from behind.
"Iris can you I.D. him to see if he's working for Akan?" I then asked in mind intended for Iris.
"Yup, just a sec," Iris replied.
"He does not work for Akan, but his claim presumably to be a scientist and or engineer when he met you at the park doesn't match up, he's employed in one job as an agent for a firm or establishment," Iris continued.
"Also, mechanical and technological parts are integrated into his anatomy at specific areas within his body which are conveniently and reliably structured... set up and in alignment to his system, augmented and he's enhanced as a result unlike compared to a normal biological human," Iris explains.
"Thank you," I replied in mind.
"Anytime," she replied before sensibly smiling.
... I wanted to confront him about this but I ultimately decided against it, believing that it would only likely cause conflict and ruin trust, as a result I decided to keep it a secret... I didn't Inform Hesh since I was afraid at the time of how she'll react, plus I thought it's best if I confront him about this at another convenient time and circumstances... anyway, all of us got into the vehicle, specifically, I was seated at the back with Hesh beside me my right, meanwhile Jimmy who's the driver is at the front with Henry who's on the passenger side... we obviously drove out of that location, plus at this point, it's that time in the afternoon where it was beginning to transition into night, the clouds or sky was beginning to go pink and purple as a result.
"Where are you taking us?" I asked, intended for Jimmy.
"Henry's I.D. has been strangely expunged off any record, although human in appearance, similar to Jimmy he also has augments within his anatomy but to an extent that there's very little human left in Henry unlike compared to Jimmy," Iris meanwhile said, intended to answer my recent thoughts.
"There's this particular hotel somewhere in Moscow, I have trustworthy friends that work there, it's a nice and safe place to stay... also don't worry about reservation and payment, I got it covered, but I wasn't expecting you'd bring a friend with you Haunt hence I only booked one room," he replied.
"luckily it's good for two considering the rooms there, although there's only one bed," he continued.
"... that's convenient," I replied before I notice Hesh is now smiling beside me before she glances at me hence I look away.
After a moment of silence between us four...
"Hunt, if you don't mind me asking," he said.
"It's Haunt not Hunt," Hesh corrects.
"Ah, alright, my bad," he replied, apologetically.
"No worries," she replied before grinning.
"What is it that you wanted to ask me?" I asked.
"Is Hesh experienced in combat?" he asked.
"No offense," he then adds as he looked over his shoulder at her direction.
"None taken," she replied before smirking.
"We're ex-military, veterans in terms of combat experience," I replied.
"Слава Богу!" he happily said, genuinely thankful.
"I'm happy because there's a total of six now who are experienced in combat in our group, including the both of you," he continued.
After a brief moment of silence between us all...
"No offense but before I'll require both of your help, I want to see you two in action if that's okay" he said.
"It's your loss of ammunition," Hesh replied.
"I can deal with it, plus it's better to spend some bullets for the benefit of likely saving a lot of people, succeeding in return when the time comes unlike otherwise... anyway, so, tomorrow?" he replied.
"Sure," I replied before I looked at Hesh who grinned in response as she looked at me intently.
After some time, eventually...
We arrived at our destination, Henry stayed in the vehicle whilst Jimmy escorted both me and Hesh inside this luxurious hotel... he got us both inside the building with our weapons and equipment still on... Jimmy led us to the spacious lounge area of the lobby before he spoke.
"You two stay here for a while, I'll be back after I talk to a friend of mine, alright," Jimmy said which Hesh and I gave a nod in response, coincidentally in unison.
We then parted ways hence I followed Hesh towards one of the many available couches in the lounge area, she found us a comfortable spot to wait which I accompanied her, sitting opposite from her, we just sat there.
After a moment of silence between us...
"Can I see the real you, your face I mean?" Hesh asked which I shrug before I opened up my H.P. Mask.
I then unlocked my balaclava's simple lock mechanism that's on the bridge of my nose hence exposing the bottom half of my face as a result, immediately after, her eyes lingered on my lips as she bit her's.
"Happy?" I asked.
"... you putting up with me, yes, truly," she replied before smiling.
After a moment of silence between us...
"So, what do you think about the development of your progress so far?" she asked after clearing her throat.
"It's better than nothing, so far it's alright... I'm content," I replied as I lean back on the couch.
"... Haunt, look, I'm sorry... I-" she said before I cut her off.
"Don't you-... just don't... I acknowledge the fact that you've changed and continue to strive to improve that strays away from what I... unforgivably and consistently recall about you... all those horrible and tragic histories," I said as I suppress or again smother my contempt and loathe for her and Juno in mind.
"... but at least now, you and Juno aren't all that bad now I guess, hopefully it is... unsurprisingly and understandably it's tough, also really... really contentious," I continued as I look her directly in her eyes.
"... I understand," she replied before looking away, defeated.
After a while of talking with Hesh about topics she'd like to hear my thoughts on once again...
"It's good to see you two are having a pleasant time waiting, the room you both will be staying in is now ready," Jimmy interjects as he approached us with someone who's following behind him.
"This is Audrey by the way," he adds before stepping aside to reveal a strikingly beautiful and young woman in business attire.
Meanwhile, I then utilized the simple lock mechanism of my balaclava that's on the bridge of my nose hence covering the lower part of my face as intended, I then closed my H.P. Mask, concealing the entirety of my face as a result.
"Cool mask," Jimmy comments which I only nod at him in response meanwhile as Iris highlighted something on both his eyes.
"He's wearing modified contact lenses, presumably utilized for diagnosing and scanning, discreetly," Iris comments.
"I'll be the one responsible concerning you both in your time of stay here," Audrey meanwhile said.
"Haunt and I appreciate the hospitality and refuge, truly," Hesh replied which made Jimmy and Audrey smilebin response, genuinely pleased.
"In that context, much thanks and glory to Audrey who singlehandedly made it possible," Jimmy said hence Audrey looked at him with a grin in response
"Welp, this is where we'll part ways for now," he continued before he took out a phone then offered it towards Hesh which she takes.
"I'll be keeping in touch via the devices I gave to you both, but until then, you two have earned free phones from uncle Jimmy," he adds before he turned then walked away heading towards the entrance of the hotel.
"Alright, follow me to your room please," Audrey said as she began to lead the way hence Hesh and I stood up and followed her.
Eventually...
"Have a goodnight you two," Audrey said smiling as she looked at me before walking away.
... I then looked at Hesh, who then gave a shrug and gestured to the door of our room, I then unlocked the door, opened it, then we both went inside... the room was luxurious, neat, and more spacious than I expected... there's a bed big enough for two and is conveniently at the center of the room, the bathroom door was to the right, there was a couch facing the television which was nearby a window, lastly there's a table that's coupled by two chairs which are nearby a mini-fridge and a trash bin... moreover, on the bed, there were two separate bundles of neatly organized clothes, that were separately coupled with 2x towels, 1x soap, 1x shampoo, 1x toothbrush, and 1x toothpaste, lastly, a wallet that had a decent amount of money or rubles already inside.
"Excessive, at least for me," I comment.
"I see, but it is what it is," Hesh replied as she went to turn on the AC in the room.
"... as they intend, I feel welcomed," I add which made her chuckle.
"I'll be sleeping on the couch-" I continued before being cut off by Hesh.
"Oh c'mon Haunt, don't be a pussy," she said, disappointed, as she approached me albeit frowning, once close she then reached to grab my arm but she stopped herself.
"You just want-," I said before being abruptly cut off by her again.
"Yes I do want, is that so bad?" she said with sensible tenseness or restraint in her voice.
"You're bad," I retort referring to what I recall hence loathe her for.
"Nobody is entirely good," she replied, frowning.
"Let make you happy because I can," she continued, a bit pleadingly.
"... no," I replied which made her frown even more, she then huffed, displeased.
"Fine, you pussy," she said, unhappily, she then turns towards the bed.
She then gently grabbed my bundle of stuff that's on the bed before offering it to me, which caught me off guard or was surprising... considering what had just transpired between us and also what I recall or know about her, I absolutely expected something stern, cold, or dismissive from her as a result.
"Thank you," I said as I took my stuff with a raised brow which she can't see because of my mask.
"Fuck you," she replied in comical cadence before she went to sit on the bed.
Digressing, I head towards the couch where I put my stuff somewhere on the floor nearby, once seated I took off my ushanka to realize it's a bit intricate, in addition, the ear flaps has conveniently been modified to suit and serve the function similar to what my H.P. Helmet's ear muffs can do... my ushanka has been modified to be compatible to my H.P. Mask, which reassured me that I can experience what my H.P. Helmet can provide, especially the feature that I can vibe if I wanted to... this and even now matters so much to me because, apart from being a combat enhancing boost, the songs and music of my preference are like ammunition for my sanity against succumbing to insanity, the madness that's chewing at me everyday, bent on contributing to my neverending degradation.
... happy and content about my ushanka, l I took off my H.P. Mask, balaclava, body armor, and my H.P. Boots then placed all of them somewhere on the floor nearby the couch... I'm no longer just a human hence sleep is now a choice of want instead of being a need for me, unless say for example I'm bleeding... anyway, I was surprised when Hesh then came into my view who's now only wearing a blank white t-shirt and tight athletic or fitness shorts... yes, those two pieces of clothing only, as a result, I got to see her fit albeit attractive physique which was stunning hot no doubt... I was caught off guard she'd suddenly come over to me like this considering what I recall about her, which would be wishful thinking... basically, this was new to me at the time, anyway, she was carrying a pillow in her hand which she offered to me whilst smiling and looking at me, seemingly in a bit of a longing trance until I took the pillow from her hand... she stood there for a sec then bit her lip before walking away to leave me alone... flustered in mind a bit, digressing, I put the pillow conveniently on the couch where my head will be resting before laying down, trying to get comfortable, Hesh then spoke.
"I'm gonna turn off the lights, you snug and settled babe?" she asked, I raise a hand then gestured a thumbs up in response hence she turned off the lights.
"Feel free to sneak up onto the bed next to me any time you want Haunt *giggle* especially if you have intentions of keeping me up all night, trust me I wouldn't mind, I want that to happen," she adds before I heard her getting snug and comfortable on the bed.
"Goodnight Hesh," I replied.
"... *sigh* goodnight babe," she replied.
I closed my eyes, it took a while before I eventually-
⟨Darkness⟩
In that familiar neat and flawless transition, I was able to breathe and see in the mask meanwhile as the elevator then began its descent.
After a moment of silence between us...
"If you don't mind me asking, how long have you two been together?" Audrey asked.
Like the first time I saw her, Audrey's light blond hair is neatly well tied up into a stylish bun... she carries this reserved, confident and elegant aura, I then spoke.
"... I don't know how long, but long enough," I replied.
After a brief moment of silence...
"Are you two a couple?" she asked.
"... why do you ask?" I replied.
"Just small talk, Tether," she replied before smiling as she glanced at me.
"... I can't answer that yet," I said intended to answer her question, I notice her smile seemingly widened a bit in response.
... I was aware of the implications, but like Hesh or when I typically meet someone seemingly interested in me, I prefer to just act dumb and not indulge the subject matter... besides I find it suspicious she'd even be like this in just a short amount of time, considering we've only been introduced to each other last night and had no proper instances of interacting with each other, as a result, I was skeptical of her motives to an extent... cynical and pessimistic that I am, I began to speculate in mind... also, I didn't confront her calling me Tether... I never mentioned it and I doubt that she knew because of Hesh... I heard it but it went over my head since I was mainly focused on other brewing things in my mind or thoughts at that time, I didn't realize that Audrey was more than what she appears or lets on to be.
After a moment of waiting whilst I'm quietly in deep thought, meanwhile as Audrey flawlessly hums a pleasant tune...
The elevator stopped before its door opened, Audrey stepped out then stepped aside, she then looked back at me with a smile as she pushes back a loose strand of her hair behind her ear.
"If you have any complaints or concerns just ask the staff for my name and I'll be with you, to personally address it since I know a lot of things," she said as she intently looked at my eyes.
"Thank you," I replied with a nod which seemingly surprised her.
Without a second thought I continued on my way to meet up with Hesh, when I met up with her she was at the same spot we were last night which is nearby the entrance, I sat across from her meanwhile as she looked at me with a smirk.
"Holga and Katya will be evaluating the validity of our claim to be ex-military, like you said to Jimmy," she said which I nod in response.
"This should be fun don't you think?" she asked before grinning.
"It depends," I replied before both of us received a message from our phones.
We a look at each other before we both took out our phones in response and looked at the message, it read as follows... "Holga and Katya are outside nearby the hotel entrance, currently waiting for you both, have fun :)"... no doubt the sender was Jimmy, I tuck my phone back into my pocket before I spoke.
"They're human so dial it down Hesh," I remark which made her chuckle.
"I'm serious," I add which she rolls her eyes at me in response albeit grinning.
"Me too, don't worry... geez you're so full of concern it's flattering and cute," she replied before smirking.
"If only that level of genuine concern applies to me as well, I can imagine that it would make me wet," she continued, looking at me intent meanwhile as her left hand is raised to brush her bottom lip suggestively.
"... shall we go?" I asked before I gestured towards the entrance of the hotel, intended to redirect focus and attention.
"Absolutely," she replied before she then led the way hence I followed behind her.
Once outside of the hotel, we then met up with Holga and Katya who are currently talking to each other in a nearby parked car and motorcycle, upon seeing us they gestured for us to come over which we both did, Iris then spoke.
"They're not working for Akan," Iris comments in my mind which I absentmindedly nod in response.
"I'm Holga," the young woman to my right said as she gestured to herself as introduction, she then offered her hand for us to handshake which we did.
... Holga was wearing a black blazer coupled with a pink shirt she's wearing within, moreover, she's wearing blue jeans, and black sports shoes, she has ashy blond hair that reaches down to her shoulders.
"Katya," the young woman to my left said, introducing herself as she offered her hand for us to handshake as well hence again Hesh and I did.
Katya was wearing a black tracksuit and black sports shoes, she also tied her ashy blond hair into a neat ponytail... anyway, from what Jimmy infromed me and Hesh is that both of them are skilled in combat... particularly, Katya specializes in utilizing guns unlike Holga who specializes in melee, especially when she's utilizing her Katana.
"Мы не очень хорошо понимаем английский, не говоря уже о том, чтобы использовать его, но Джимми сказал нам, что один из вас может говорить на русском языке," Holga said which I nod in response.
"Да, это я," I replied.
"Где-то на окраине Москвы наша цель, это будет долгое путешествие," Katya said to which I nod before looking back at Hesh.
"It'll be a long trip to our destination," I said.
"I'm good, you?" Hesh replied.
"Likewise," I replied which she nod in response.
"Мы настроены и готовы," I said as I look back at Katya who nod in response.
"Идеально! вы двое будете моими пассажирами," Holga meanwhile enthusiastically replied.
Katya went to her motorcycle meanwhile as Hesh and I follow Holga to her car, approaching her car I noticed her sheathed Katana laying on the front seat, as a result went to sit at the back seats with Hesh.
After some time, eventually...
We arrived at our destination which was a decrepit and abandoned seemingly apartment building... it was somewhere in the outskirts of Moscow... the building in its entirety wasn't originally fleshed out from within, until it had been owned then repurposed by Jimmy as a secure and secret training ground... it's also one of his backup hideouts according to Holga, she also added saying that the building has been dubbed or entitled by Jimmy as "Block 3"... all of Jimmy's hideouts have names for ease of recognition or reference, obviously... anyway in the end, Hesh and I unsurprising proved what I claim us to be... both were impressed... Holga then called for us to have a meeting after Hesh and I returned the provided weapons for our course.
"Это было несколько бессмысленно, извините, если мы обидели вас обоих," Katya announces.
"Мы понимаем, почему это необходимо, не беспокойтесь," I replied which both Holga and Katya had a pleased smile on their face in response.
"Could you let me in on this Haunt?" Hesh asked beside me which I look at her in response.
"Since we've unsurprisingly proved ourselves as we claim to be, they're worried if this agenda or precautionary exercise has offended us in anyway, I said that it didn't and that we understand why it was necessary," I replied.
"Oh," Hesh replied with a nod of approval.
"It's always good to see everyone getting along fine and dandy with each other," a familiar voice then said a few floors above us.
It was Jimmy, he was wearing a green beret and a military uniform as he looks down at us, he then waved at all of us enthusiastically whilst smiling.
"Holga, Katya, you both can- oh wait," Jimmy said.
"Вы двое можете уйти, если хотите-" he then continues before being cut off by Katya.
"Определенно," she said before making her way to leave the building.
Holga then happily albeit smilingly followed behind her, after giving me and Hesh both an enthusiastic wave of goodbye which we casually return.
After the two left and a brief moment of silence...
"Charming, aren't they?" Jimmy asked hence Hesh and I then notice that he's got a British accent now.
"Yeah, but why are you all British now?" Hesh replied looking up at him.
"Ah, well, let me make my way down to you two lovely chaps before I'll explain," he replied before he went away.
After a moment of us quietly waiting for Jimmy to reach us...
"Colonel Jimmy, at your service," he introduced himself as he formally greeted us with a salute which Hesh and I returned by saluting back in response.
"For short... I'm not the original or actual Jimmy but I'm one of the real ones, but alas we should digress because I have a more important question to ask for you two love birds," he adds.
"What is it?" Hesh asked.
"... what do you both hope to gain from helping me stop Akan in the end?" he asked.
"After all from a blunt perspective, I'm just a stranger striving for the perfect opportunity to stop Akan and also get my revenge, let alone I'm a criminal," he continued.
After a moment of silence between us three, meanwhile as I quietly contemplate...
"What do you hope to gain Hesh?" I asked looking at her which made her smile before giggling.
"Only you dense fuck," she replied staring into my eyes longingly hence making my heart impulsively flutter a bit in response.
"What about you?" she asked.
"... what I hope to gain in the end after helping you stop Akan is... *sigh* added reinforcement for peace of mind and sanity... otherwise if I choose to not care, I can't imagine being able to sleep considering the potential lives that are at stake," I replied looking back at Jimmy.
After a bit of silence between us three...
"... I trust your words for it lad... it's rare to meet someone genuine and having this disposition in striving to do the right things... but even still I-... I hope my belief in you, the both of you... isn't a presumption or a theory I let myself idiotically trust," he replied, genuinely.
"We're genuine I can promise you that," Hesh replied.
"... I really do hope so," he replied smiling as he offered his hand for us to handshake.
"I don't blame you for being skeptical of us, but we'll prove your level of suspicion wrong, that's a guarantee," I replied as I shook his hand, Hesh then shook his hand after.
"I'll be expecting to be proven wrong then, and I hope that I am," he replied, genuinely happy and content.
"Since Katya and Holga are gone, how do we get back to Moscow by the way?" Hesh asked.
"Oh right, thank you for reminding me, this way please," he replied leading the way in the direction where his vehicle is parked at.
Hesh then bump into me as a playful gesture which annoyed me a bit, I looked at her frowning in response which made her grin... she would've smirked instead if she knew I was frowning.
"I hope you keep this up," she said.
"Keep what up?" I replied, confused.
"Being rightly genuine and just being yourself," she said before smiling.
... her words were just sentences meant to be heard before I then indulge or thought about it... it wasn't long until her words got stuck on my thoughts thus memories which hurt coupled it... ultimately it struck a nerve thus I was impulsively melancholic in response... the jab of melancholy was potent enough that it made me abruptly stop in my tracks, my teeth were clenched and my hands have now balled into fists as I closed my eyes whilst I try to control and suppress my kindling emotions.
⟨Darkness⟩
At that moment, I wanted to be alone in a room where nobody is aware can hear me, but I manage to power through or to put it bluntly, neglect or smother it again.
"Haunt?" I hear Hesh ask in a gentle tone, sensibly concerned and worried.
I then opened my eyes to see her now in front of me, looking at me intently... she then reached out to grab my left hand.
"You're cold," she said before tenderly wrapping both her hands and pressing them on my hand, in an attempt to warm it.
"... I'm-... I'm like that when I'm really afraid or nervous about something," I replied with sensible restraint of emotion in my voice.
"Are you two alright?" Jimmy asked with an audible hint of concern.
"Can you give us a minute?" Hesh replied over her shoulder before looking back at me.
"Take your time, we're in no rush," he replied.
After a brief moment of silence between us as we stare at each other...
Hesh then suddenly hugged me hence her gesture almost broke my concentration to stifle or smother my emotions... I hug her back before I closed my eyes and let out a suppressed sigh of emotions, which made her grip on me a bit more firm.
⟨Darkness⟩
"I'm aware of how hurt and torn you entirely are by all of this... even before... whatever's going on in your head just know that I'm here for you, without any bullshit this time," Hesh said with genuine resolute, sensibly sad and hurt knowing that I'm suffering quietly.
⟨End Of Recording⟩
Next: "Commendable."