-CHAPTER 25-
Written By
David Kenneth Lacey
The next day after the battle between Mainland and the AA/RF, the planets of the TRAPPIST-1 solar system will be shown. As this happens, the planet Grissom will be viewed, to which in the upper-sphere of this planet in space, a massive Space Fortress called Neith will be shown-along with legions of various Superior Weapons and Superior Maneuvers flying closely around it. The Superior Weapons will be shown to be operating and preparing various kinds of gun placements and defenses around the exterior of the Fortress, and after this is shown, their many support ships and E-Dreadnoughts will be briefly shown, as the scene will then show the interior of the Space Fortress Neith.
Inside of the Space Fortress Neith, hallways and sub-command rooms full of Ascension and RF personal will be shown-with each one doing many things or heading to their destinations. After this is viewed, in the main command room from before, Emperor Stanley, Howard and Susan will be watching events unfold from within Mainland, as across the table from them, Queen Azalea, Queen Media, Rhapsody and Empress Alexandra all watch the scene with them. Their expressions are uncaring for what they are viewing on the hologram-
"EXPLOUSION!"
Everyone
...
On the hologram projected from the middle of the table, the view shows several views coming from a few undercover E-AndroIs, who are watching a situation develop from within Mainland. From their perspective, absolute chaos is shown, as in the streets of Mainland, burning cars are flipped over and destroyed; debris from buildings are seen everywhere and trash lies across all of Mainland. In one street where one of the E-AndroIs is, many angry civilians carrying make-shift weapons and shields are seen to be openly clashing against many Next-AndroIs protecting the area-as the Black Block is shown further behind them. Several other streets leading up to the Black Block in the distance are shown with similar situations, as the civilians scream as they charge the Next-AndroIs, they can be heard saying-
Angry Confederation Civilian 01 (Hologram)
...How can you idiots expect us to go back into the Saviour Ships?! They're a deathtrap!
One man screams, as he soon bashes his make-shift shield against an Next-AndroIs in front of him. Several more angry civilians then come up to back up the man-
Angry Confederation Civilian 02 (Hologram)
Grr!
Angry Confederation Civilian 03 (Hologram)
Rgh!
However, despite there being three civilians ganging up on a single Next-AndroIs, it is easily capable of throwing them all off of itself. As the men hit the ground, it says to them-
Next-AndroIs 01 (Hologram)
Cease and desist your current actions at once. You must return to the Saviour Ships, while there is still time-!
Suddenly, a Molotov cocktail is thrown at the feet of this Next-AndroIs, exploding and enveloping the area in front of it in burning flames-forcing it to take a few steps back. As this happens, many more civilians behind the three men on the ground help them up, while also starting to throw pieces of debris and other such items at the Next-AndroIs from a distance. The mob of angry civilians continue shouting-
Angry Confederation Civilian 04 (Hologram)
Let us through!
Angry Confederation Civilian 05 (Hologram)
We'll beat some sense into our leaders!
They continue saying, as the fighting between them and the Next-AndroIs rages on in the streets.
Back in the command room of Neith, Rhapsody will now say-
Rhapsody Luisant
...Well, Howard...everything is proceeding exactly as you predicted things would. The Confederation will now be hard pressed to keep a handle on this situation that you created-on top of preparing their military to face us here in less than 96 hours.
Rhapsody says, as Howard is now shown without his costume and mask from before. He appears to be a changed-yet darker individual now, as he replies to Rhapsody with more confidence in his tone than before, indicating that he has become more capable after his conversation with his mother the day before-
Howard Pinnacle
Of course, Rhapsody. This was precisly why I and Stanley decided to execute this mission in the first place, as Mainland offered a kind of "neutral" safe-zone for the Confederation. By taking that away from them, that forces the Confederation to split their focus across both military and civilian issues-which we can exploit even further...
Howard says with a hint of joy and confidence in his tone, as he continues to watch the chaos unfold on the hologram. Howard then speaks up, saying-
Howard Pinnacle
The Confederation won't have the time to contain both of these issues before coming to our gates. And when they do arrive, we'll have our super lasers online-waiting to cause even more havoc...
He says, in the same confident tone, to which Rhapsody sees that Howard could attempt to attack the Saviour Ships-which each contain millions of civilians. She will say to them-
Rhapsody Luisant
!...You...aren't thinking of actually attacking civilians with superweapons, are you?!
Rhapsody asks, almost demanding an answer from Howard-to which he will reply coolly-
Howard Pinnacle
...Rhapsody...you do recall that the Confederation currently has death sentences against us for what we allowed to happen 18 years ago, right?
Howard says, reminding Rhapsody that if they were to ever return to the Confederation after what they have done, they'd all be killed. She replies to this by saying-
Rhapsody Luisant
Yes, Howard...I know how badly they want the four of us dead...but, that shouldn't be an excuse to involve people who have nothing to do with our reasons for fighting the Confederation today...
Howard continues, as Stanley eyes him very carefully.
Emperor Stanley Tempest
...
Howard Pinnacle
And why not, Rhapsody? No one in the Confederation will ever accept us again, as not even my own mother can't help but look down on me...
Howard Pinnacle
I try so hard to make a world where people accept the Ascension as equals...and everyone spits in my face. So...why shouldn't we also destroy the Confederation's Saviour Ships during the upcoming battle?
Rhapsody Luisant
!..
Upon hearing this, Rhapsody will pause, as she will look at Howard. His eyes are eyes that show that he has become a broken individuals, as whatever happened between Ginnette and Howard during the later part of their talk will have now caused Howard to talk this way.
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Faced with this, Rhapsody will then say-
Rhapsody Luisant
That...is a somewhat logical response and reaction...however, I just thought that my former student would want to use more...restraint...in who we wish to fight...
Rhapsody says this, deeply implying that she still has some humanity within her, but her words fall of deaf ears, as both Howard and Stanley say to her-
Howard Pinnacle
There was a time...back when we were fighting against the DIC 18 years ago that I thought that way... I truly thought that I could impose a new way of thinking onto the DIC, as we were going to bring the RF and certain members of your family back with us to the DIC-in order to force Sacha to end the war with the Ascension and then create a new world order...
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Queen Azalea Ascension
...
Queen Media Ascension
...
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...
Susan Pinnacle
...
Howard continues-
Howard Pinnacle
However...after talking to my mother yesterday and hearing exactly how she thinks of me...and how she still wishes to be chained to the traditions of the past-but only when it's convenient to her...I no longer want her or anyone else in the Confederation to become apart of this new ideal that we will create.
Howard Pinnacle
The Ascension and the RF will become one single entity, instead of separated like we've been all this time. To that end, many changes are needed to eventually bring down the Confederation-as they are our greatest enemy to expanding out beyond this solar system.
Curiously, Rhapsody will ask-
Rhapsody Luisant
...How so, Howard?
Howard will pause for a second-surprised that Rhapsody would ask this. He will soon reply to her by saying-
Howard Pinnacle
...Yesterday, just as I was finishing my conversation with my mother in Mainland, she told me that in order for her to help repopulate our destroyed family, she had to take in a man who wasn't a Pinnacle-similar to how your family conducts itself towards individuals who offer your family benefits in the past.
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Rhapsody will remain silent, knowing what Howard is describing. Howard continues-
Howard Pinnacle
However, what she told me earlier in that conversation was that she wished for our family to accept these outsiders as they were...yet, she still forced the man she is now in a relationship with to take the Pinnacle Serum BEFOREHAND-which contradicts her entire argument of having our family become more exclusive.
Now, Empress Alexandra chimes in, saying-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...Interesting. If your mother were serious in what she said earlier, then she would've let this man she met begin a relationship with her as he was-without taking this serum you keep mentioning...
Alexandra says, although unsure of what the "Pinnacle Serum" is, to which Howard replies with-
Howard Pinnacle
Exactly, Alexandra. And then, she insisted that I give her both Faith and...her twin sister, as she has more of our serum and suiters waiting for them to help rebuild our family-who I learned also took the Serum beforehand as well...
Howard says this firmly, to which Rhapsody points out-
Rhapsody Luisant
Those two...are your children now?
Rhapsody will say this sarcastically, to which Howard will then quickly reply with-
Howard Pinnacle
No-just Faith. She is my only daughter...and she will come to know of this after our battle with the Confederation in just a few more days. Telling her beforehand would just cause her to become unhinged-which might lead to her getting killed more easily...
Curious, Rhapsody will then ask-
Rhapsody Luisant
...And, what will you do with them after this upcoming battle, may I ask?
Howard replies, calmly-
Howard Pinnacle
I'm going to give both Faith and Idris over to the Confederation, as I know exactly the kind of game my mother is playing now. If she intends to continue forcing people to take the Pinnacle Serum before allowing anyone to embrace each other naturally, then I'll just give them to the Confederation and let them see how well that goes for themselves.
Howard Pinnacle
Those two are already in love, so allowing them to see just how restrictive my mother is in pairing people will make them want to come back to the freedom that the RF allows. And as for that other one...well, I'll need to consider how to incorporate her into our future projects, as I'm not sure at the moment...
Howard says this in a slightly sinister tone, as Stanley chimes in, saying-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Indeed...however, you still need to get our hands on the Neo-SEED that the Confederation has, as without that, all of your upcoming projects will be held up-including replacing the Ascension military with new Weapons...
Empress Alexandra then speaks up, saying-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
Indeed-and that needs to happen as soon as possible, as my daughters can't keep our people fighting in this fake war for much longer...
Queen Azalea Ascension
!...
Queen Media Ascension
!...
Both Queen Azalea and Queen Media will show some subtle reaction to their mother's words, indicating that they are having trouble continuing to make the Ascension fight against the Confederation. Rumors and mentions must be going on all over the place-all of which hint at the truth behind the war, to which Howard replies-
Howard Pinnacle
I am aware of that, Alexandra, and all I can say to both Azalea and Media is to just keep quiet on that subject for the time being. Thankfully, this problem is still constrained to private mentions between Ascension in their quarters afterhours, which should at least allow us to continue to manipulate them until the RF get our hands on the Neo-SEED.
Howard then says-
Howard Pinnacle
Once we have that, you two can retire your entire military and entrust to us your current technology and any Ascension who still wish to fight the Confederation-regardless of motive or reasoning. We will then be able to move forward with our future plans, as having two SEEDs will help to ensure our continued imperial regime.
Susan then speaks up, saying-
Susan Pinnacle
By that point, we'll return to the planet Gleen to restore it back to a livable state, as once it's environment has been restored we will create several platforms in orbit for interstellar travel. We can also incorporate those technologies into our "Judgement" projects ahead of the Confederation, which should give us an edge against their current technological superiority as well.
Emperor Stanley says this confidently as well, to which Rhapsody says-
Rhapsody Luisant
!...Are you thinking of eventually traveling to that other solar system that we saw in the telescopes? That one which has humanoids that look just like ourselves...?
Rhapsody asks, indicating that there are other humanoids in the galaxy-outside of the TRAPPIST-1 solar system. Confidently, Emperor Stanley says-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Of course. Since the people in this solar system reject our ideals...maybe it'll be easier to dominate others outside of our space with our ideals instead.
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Unsure of how to reply to this, Rhapsody will fall silent, as Empress Alexandra says-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
I'm sure my children will accept your input into this matter as well-in the near future. Afterall, we don't know the capabilities of the civilizations outside of this solar system yet, so it's best to make contact with them with a strong military force-least we be dominated by them instead.
Howard will then reply with-
Howard Pinnacle
Exactly my thoughts, Alexandra...but, these topics should be saved for another time, I believe, as I think we've gotten off track a little bit...
Howard says, knowing that he kind of went off topic to discuss their future plans in greater detail than he should've. Now, he gets back to topic by saying-
Howard Pinnacle
Rhapsody. It's ultimately pointless for us to keep holding back when facing the Confederation, as now that we know that they would openly condemn everyone within the RF to death-including the Ascension, whom we fought so hard to protect from the DIC...and forsook our own families just to ensure that they live...then, I don't see why we shouldn't target their Saviour Ships during the next battle.
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Rhapsody will not reply to this, as Howard will then end this topic by saying-
Howard Pinnacle
We have to make a clear statement to the Confederation with this, as if we don't show them we also mean well in our own commitments...then they'll use that opportunity to kill us instead.
Emperor Stanley Tempest
...
Susan Pinnacle
...
Rhapsody Luisant
!...
Howard says this, determined to survive, to which both Emperor Stanley and Susan will also appear to be thinking the same. This will inpsire Rhapsody to allow him to do as he pleases. However, she will then ask this-.
Rhapsody Luisant
...I...understand, Howard. I will allow for you to do as you please during the next battle with the Confederation...on one condition.
Curious, Howard will ask-
Howard Pinnacle
...And that is?
Rhapsody will then say-
Rhapsody Luisant
During the next battle, I would like to be apart of the first line of defense-whom will be the first to engage with the Confederation's Superior Weapons. If you allow me that, then I will allow for you to do whatever you wish.
Howard Pinnacle
!...
Howard will instantly know what Rhapsody is hinting at, but if he makes any suspicious moves, he will be caught in his web of lies that he created. Thus, he spurt this out, somewhat uncomfortably-trying to not raise suspicion-
Howard Pinnacle
Why would...you request something like that, Rhapsody?
Rhapsody will reply-
Rhapsody Luisant
I just...want to be on the battlefield for a change, instead of in this command room when either you or Stanley use superweapons against civilians. Being out there will ensure that I won't have any hand in this decision and that history won't make more of a mockery of me than as is...
Rhapsody says, lying-but despite the fact that both Howard and Stanley know she's lying, they won't be able to retaliate against her-lest they make themselves more suspicious. Howard will then be forced to say-
Howard Pinnacle
O...of course, Rhapsody. We'll allow for that...
Rhapsody Luisant
Thank you, my former pupil.
Rhapsody says kindly, to which after saying this, Empress Alexandra-none the wiser as to what is going on between Howard and Rhapsody-will then commend Howard, saying-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...I am sure that all of the Ascension will thank you for your determination and wisdom, Howard, Stanley and Susan. Naturally, I personally thank you right now for your courage in aiding us in our times of need.
Howard Pinnacle
...Thank you, Alexandra...
Empress Alexandra says, bowing her head to Howard, Stanley and Susan. As Howard replies, both Stanley and Susan both smile kindly, as Queen Media then changes the topic to discuss-
Queen Media Ascension
...Now that we have that covered, I think we should end this conversation with just one more point of interest. We've received several reports from our Rear Admirals, detailing a new kind of technology that the Confederation displayed called "Harmonics" during the last battle, which is quite something...
Howard Pinnacle
!
Susan Pinnacle
!
Emperor Stanley Tempest
!
Now alerted to this mention, everyone pays attention to Queen Media, as Howard says-
Howard Pinnacle
Harmonics...? Could you explain what that is to us, Media?
Howard asks, curiously, as Queen Media tries to explain this complicated subject to them all-
Queen Media Ascension
Certainly, Howard...though, just so you all know, our understanding of this technology is very limited at this time. Not much is really known outside of these reports, which details that this Harmonics technology is capable of...amplifying the skills of lesser pilots to that of one highly-skilled pilot almost instantly.
Howard Pinnacle
...
Queen Media continues, as Howard, Stanley and Susan all listen intently-
Queen Media Ascension
According to eye-witness reports, such as Commander Idris and his friends, as they fought against the Tyranny ErotiCake during the previous operation, at first it didn't display anything noteworthy and was almost destroyed at several points. However, just before it could be destroyed, it would then display near instant attacks and defenses-something normal pilots could never achieve.
Now, Emperor Stanley asks-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Would we happen to have a recording of this battle between the Tyranny ErotiCake and Idris?
He asks, as Queen Azalea then says-
Queen Azalea Ascension
Of course. Let me put it on screen...!
Now, a recording of the battle between the Tyranny ErotiCake and the three Divides piloted by General Idris, Faith and Grace are put onto the hologram-canceling out the previous displays. As their battle is shown to Howard, Stanley and Susan, all three of them watch the battle intently-watching how the Tyranny ErotiCake manages to defend itself against attacks that the pilots inside couldn't see and how it attacks with such skill. Queen Azalea then says-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...I had even heard from Rhapsody that she managed to personally injure two of the three pilots of that Divide 5 days before this battle occurred. The wounds she inflicted on them would not have had the time to heal properly in such short time...and yet, look at how well the Tyranny ErotiCake manages to move-even despite that fact...
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Rhapsody will remain silent, as she will remember meeting Perle and Sabrina and injuring both of them-whom will remind her of her daughter Bijou, who she misses terribly. As she thinks of her and her grandchildren, the recordings then reach the climax-when the Liberty Divide arrives on the scene. Rhapsody will see the Liberty Divide, to which Howard will then say for her-
Rhapsody Luisant
...!
Howard Pinnacle
That Divide...it looks just like the Liberty ErotiCake!
Howard says, as Queen Media then speaks up-
Queen Media Ascension
Correct, Howard. That new Superior Weapon has been reported by Captain Irena to be piloted by Bijou and her friends, meaning that it was built from the Liberty ErotiCake. I suppose we can just call it the "Liberty ErotiCake Mk-II" from now on, as well.
Howard Pinnacle
...
Rhapsody Luisant
...
As the recording then ends, Howard now takes a moment to think about this new development. He closes his eyes, to which after a few moments, he then speaks up, saying-
Howard Pinnacle
...Alright, I've seen enough to deduce a few things...as well as some ways we can disable these two Superior Weapons.
Rhapsody Luisant
...
Howard says, confidently, as Rhapsody looks at him with a sly look. Express Alexandra will ask him this, in a curious tone-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
Howard...are you referring to our new Superior Variant with those "Striker" units attached to it, perhaps?
Now, Howard explains-
Howard Pinnacle
Yes...but, that gift from us to the Ascension was just one way that I was thinking of in order to counter this Harmonics system.
Howard continues-
Howard Pinnacle
The way I think we can win is by using our new D4 Divides and later the D5-of which both are ready for mass production. Both models will have a system that is very similar to this Harmonics that the Confederation uses, in that they will be able to receive a signal from any of our support ships, which will offer the Superior Weapon in question the skills of highly experienced pilots-just like this report seems to describe.
Howard says, pausing in the middle of his explanation to pause for a moment, as he is holding something back at this time about this system. Queen Azalea and Queen Media do notice his shout pause, but regard it as nothing, as they then say-
Queen Azalea Ascension
Ah, that would indeed help considerably, as our pilots could then use that information given to them to change up their tactics while fighting in the field.
Queen Azalea says, as Howard continues-
Howard Pinnacle
Exactly, Azalea-but that's not all. This system that we've developed can also analyze the tactics of the enemy in front of it and calculate thousands of counter-tactics within moments-which should help to tip the balance of power back into our hands.
Howard says, once again not telling everyone in the room what else this system is capable of, as Queen Media says-
Queen Media Ascension
Wonderful. Are there any drawbacks to this new system, Howard?
Queen Media asks, to which Emperor Stanley says-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Just one, Media. The only drawback is the range, as the Superior Weapon receiving this information has to remain at a certain distance away from the ship sending out the signal...or, the signal can also be transmuted through other Superior Weapons who are already receiving the signal from any of our ships. But, the likelihood of any one Superior Weapon straying away from it's squad is very low, as most people make sure to stay close by nowadays.
With this, Howard will have explained most of their responses to the Harmonics system deployed by the Confederation, to which Empress Alexandra will be greatly pleased, saying-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...Very impressive, Howard.
As Alexandra says this, Rhapsody will speak up, saying-
Rhapsody Luisant
However, despite their impressive specs, neither of these models will be ready for deployment before the next battle.
Howard Pinnacle
...Sadly, yes...
Howard admits, as Rhapsody continues-
Rhapsody Luisant
And since that is the case, I think I will go ahead and test out both of these machines myself. I assume there are no objections to my decision...?
Rhapsody says this confidently, while Howard can hardly contain his discomfort to the idea of Rhapsody wanting to deal with both the Liberty Divide and Tyranny ErotiCake herself. Howard will look very uncomfortable now, however, he has already agreed to let Rhapsody fight on the frontlines before learning of this-but he will still try to dissuade Rhapsody by saying-
Howard Pinnacle
Well...certainly we in the RF could...speed up the production of some of the D4 Divides, so the three of us could handle those two Divides in your place, Rhapsody...
Rhapsody Luisant
Hmm...?
Rhapsody hums to herself, as she will become curious as to why Howard is now so reluctant on allowing her to fight against the Liberty Divide and Tyranny ErotiCake. He will notice this, and will be forced to say-
Howard Pinnacle
But...if...that is what you wish, then...I...I will allow you to handle these two...as I, Susan and Stanley will be here in the command room during the next battle...
Howard will say this reluctantly, as Stanley will also say-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Yes...we'll just be here, commanding our forces as the Confederation arrives-
Emperor Stanley also says this reluctantly, as Rhapsody-clearing knowing that something is up with the two, will just put the issue down and say this-
Rhapsody Luisant
...Thank you.
With that, Rhapsody will then stand up, indicating that the discussion is now over. As she does, she will say-
Rhapsody Luisant
I'd best go and prepare my new Divide for battle then, as now that you mention that, some of the D4s should be ready for deployment by the time the Confederation arrives, yes?
Howard will say-
Howard Pinnacle
Ye...yes, Rhapsody. I'll pull some strings to get one of them ready for your custom specifications-just in time for the battle...
Now, Rhapsody turns around, to which she will then kindly look behind her back and say-
Rhapsody Luisant
...Good.
As she then walks away. Empress Alexandra then watches her leave, as it's shown that she is smiling, as Rhapsody then exits the room. After she's gone, Empress Alexandra will then also stand up, along with both Queen Azalea and Queen Media, as she says-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...Well, I guess we'll leave things up to the three of you, as always. Do try to keep up to our high expectations.
Howard Pinnacle
Yes...Alexandra...
Howard says, somewhat uncomfortably, as Empress Alexandra, Queen Azalea and Queen Media then leave the room. After they have also left, both Emperor Stanley and Susan will then look at Howard, as he then says-
Howard Pinnacle
Damn that woman...if she encounters Bijou during the next battle, she will most certainly hear from them about Rebecca...
Emperor Stanley Tempest
...
Emperor Stanley looks uncaring towards Howard, as he falls silent at his own frustrations. Susan senses this, to which she says to Howard-
Susan Pinnacle
She was going to find out eventually what happened, Howard. All we can do now is try to soften the impact of the truth against us and continue this war against the Confederation.
Howard Pinnacle
!...
After a moment of seriously thinking about the possibly outcomes, Howard will then look down as he closes his eyes. After a moment, he will say-
Howard Pinnacle
...Yes...you are right, Susan...
Howard now looks over to Stanley, as he says to him-
Howard Pinnacle
Stanley...how far completed are our D4 Divides at this time?
Stanley replies-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
They are about 85% complete, while the D5s are about 65% complete. All that's keeping the D4s from being ready for deployment right now is just because we are mass producing them using the capacities of the original SEED.
With this information, Howard will then say-
Howard Pinnacle
...Alright. Call our men in the RF and tell them to take four units out of the equation and give them top priority for completion. I want those units ready before the battle with the Confederation begins.
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Of course.
Howard continues-
Howard Pinnacle
And also...tell them to give three of the four units a command module that will allow for the three of us to issue commands to the Neith-without being here in the command room. I also want a custom-trigger installed in our SWs that will allow for targeting and firing of the three "Tragic Crying" super lasers.
Emperor Stanley will reply-
Emperor Stanley Tempest
Good idea. That way we can fire a super laser at any target independent of each other-before needing to recharge the weapon.
Susan Pinnacle
...Indeed.
With that, the scene then transitions, as Emperor Stanley proceeds to call the RF on the comms in the room.
"SCENE TRANSITION"
Elsewhere, Queen Azalea and Queen Media both walk with their mother behind them, as they talk briefly. Queen Azalea says-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...Mother...would you happen to recall our report 18 years ago when we first allied with the RF in New Mervillia?
Queen Azalea asks, to which Empress Alexandra says-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
Yes, I recall. I'm sure that the reason why both Howard and Stanley were acting so strangely towards Rhapsody is related to what happened back then. However, it's not our place to delve into their issues, as we have our own...with Divitiya...
Queen Azalea Ascension
!...
Queen Media Ascension
!...
Both Queen Media and Queen Azalea will flinch at this, to which their mother will say-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...I also saw how you two had that woman in your sights back on the Tenebris Root...yet didn't enact revenge for her killing Fayola.
Empress Alexandra says, as she now stops walking forward. She will then turn to look at her two daughters, as Media struggles to say-
Queen Media Ascension
Well...that's because...Divitiya said some interesting things about the Confederation's intentions-
Empress Alexandra will now look at her daughters with a serious face-cutting off Media. As the two look at their mother, she will say this-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
So, allying with the Confederation to give them our genes...is more important to the two of you than avenging your sister...my third daughter who died trying to save you from their grasp, Media?
Queen Media Ascension
Ngh...!
Queen Media says this to her mother, unable to properly answer her mother. Empress Alexandra then says-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
Azalea. As you are the only one of my daughters who survived that operation aside from Media, I want you to kill Divitiya the next time you see her. Is that clear?
Queen Azalea Ascension
!...
Queen Azalea will be forced to reply, to which she will say-
Queen Azalea Ascension
Ye-yes, mother. I'll be sure to remember that when next I see Divitiya and kill her for killing Fayola...
Queen Azalea will say this somewhat reluctantly-and yet, her mother will be satisfied with her answer. She will then take her leave-after saying to the two-
Empress Alexandra Ascension
...Remember...nothing is more important than family. Afterall...you two need to set an example for your daughters to follow after our time...
Queen Azalea Ascension
!...
Queen Media Ascension
!...
Both Azalea and Media will jolt a little, as now their mother will indicate that the two of them both have daughters of their own. With that, their mother will then take her leave at a fork in the hallway-just in front of a series of elevators, to which as she leaves, both Queen Azalea and Queen Media will then silently walk into one of the open elevators.
As the two get in, Queen Azalea will then silently push a button that will take them to another part of the fortress. As the elevator goes, Queen Azalea will say-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...I guess...we can't go along with what Divitiya said about the Confederation...
Queen Azalea says, reluctantly, to which her sister will then say-
Queen Media Ascension
...Yeah...after all, family comes before everything else according to mother...
Media says, hinting that both she and Azalea were both very interested in potentially hearing what else the Confederation had to say about sharing their genes with Humanity. However, their mother's words will stick to them, as they then get to their destination, they arrive at-
"Revel of Private Quarters"
Now, the two Queens will arrive at a small corridor, with two doors-one on each side. The doors to these rooms will be huge, along with several E-AndroIs standing guard at both of them, to which as the Two Queens approach one of them, they just need to wave their hands to make the E-AndroIs guarding their room to let them inside. They allow them easy access, to which once inside...
Inside of the room, the area will be wide and extravagant. Fancy light fixtures will decorate the entire area from above; expensive furniture will be placed about the area and an enormous bed with curtains will be seen in the middle of the room. As the two Queens walk into this room, they will pass by one of the desks, which will have a notebook from 18 years ago. As they approach the bed, they will undress themselves into their undergarments, exhausted from the days events, to which as they get close to the bed, Media will fall onto her side-about to fall asleep-
Queen Media Ascension
...SIGH!
Queen Media sighs, as her head hits the bed. However, just before Azalea falls onto her bed, a sound will alert her to her right-
Tablet
"Ringing"
Queen Azalea Ascension
!
Queen Media Ascension
...!
As Queen Azalea looks to her right, she will see that the tablet to her right is ringing, to which she will approach and then pick it up. As she sees who is trying to contact her, she will say-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...It's from Irena, on the Tenebris Root...!
Queen Azalea begins the chat with Irena, as he hops off her feet and lands into the bed on her back. Her sister will struggle to get herself up, as she listens to her sister talk to Captain Irena. She opens up by saying-
Captain Irena Requiem
...Ah, there you are, Azalea...I hope I'm not interrupting you before you fall asleep...?
Captain Irena says, as from her perspective she can see on her own tablet that both Azalea and Media are undressed and in their private quarters. Queen Azalea will then say-
Queen Azalea Ascension
It's fine, Irena. I have just enough energy to speak to you before I fall asleep here...
Queen Azalea will say, drozzy after the days events. Captain Irena will then say-
Captain Irena Requiem
I see. I'll keep this brief, as I just wanted to ask you something...about this war...!
As Captain Irena says this, from behind her, both her brother Commander Idris and their mother Rear Admiral Esyllt will enter into the frame. Both Queen Azalea and Queen Media will see them, to which they will look serious-
Queen Azalea Ascension
!...
Queen Media Ascension
...!
Now, Rear Admiral Esyllt will ask-
Rear Admiral Esyllt Requiem
Azalea...and Media? We were just wondering how the two of you would respond to Divitiya's words, as if you do agree to give our genes to the Confederation, that could mean we'd achieve peace immediately and stop all of this fighting, right?
Queen Azalea Ascension
...
Queen Media Ascension
...
Faced with this hard question, both Queen Azalea and Queen Media will fall silent, as they will close their eyes at this question. A moment later, Azalea will reply-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...You might be correct, Esyllt-but I'm sure the RF would still insist on fighting, regardless on whatever we chose. However...I don't think our mother would like that outcome very much at the moment...
Queen Media Ascension
...
Queen Azalea says this solemnly, while her sister remains quiet. Rear Admiral Esyllt will then say-
Rear Admiral Esyllt Requiem
Your mother? Did she say something to change your minds so suddenly?
Now, Queen Media will say-
Queen Media Ascension
Yes, Esyllt. Our mother just told us that family was the most important value above all other things in this world. What happened to Fayola...still haunts our mother, to which she made sure to impart onto us how we must have our vengeance against Divitiya...despite how much we'd like to speak to her again and gain an audience with Francoise...
Queen Media will say this with some compassion in her tone, indicating that she is starting to come to terms with what Divitiya told her back when she met her along with her sister. Commander Idris will then say-
Commander Idris Requiem
...So, you two intend to listen to your mother, instead of your own personal feelings in this matter?
Commander Idris will say, to which Queen Azalea will answer-
Queen Azalea Ascension
...Yes. For now, when next we meet Divitiya, we will attempt to claim her life-just like our mother wishes. However, until we have that chance that meet Divitiya in person to kill her-like our mother insists...we will have the time to try to get in contact with the Confederation, as I want to personally hear from Francoise how this kind of operation would even occur.
Queen Media Ascension
!...
Upon hearing of this, Queen Media will look interested at her sister, to which Captain Irena will then say-
Captain Irena Requiem
!...I see. It's good to hear that the two of you are capable of thinking for yourselves in this situation, as we can't keep fighting like this forever.
Captain Irena says, pleased with both Queen Azalea and Queen Media for mentioning how they intend to think for themselves-despite being pressured by their mother to just outright kill Divitiya. Queen Azalea then ends their conversation by smiling, saying-
Queen Azalea Ascension
"Smiles"...It's thanks to you guys that we are able to see things in this kind of light. We'll find our own way to end this conflict that we created, while also keeping our mother pleased with our actions at the same time.
Queen Media Ascension
We just need some time to execute our own plans in all of this. We hope you three will have our backs until we find that answer...
Now, Idris, Irena and Esyllt will look at each other, smiling, to which they will then look back at the two Queens, to which Esyllt will then say-
Rear Admiral Esyllt Requiem
Of course...my two Queens.
With that, the comms will end, to which as it does, Queen Azalea will then toss the tablet to her side, as she is now exhausted-along with her sister. As the two fall into a deep slumber, the scene will then transition elsewhere...
"Scene Transition"
All the way back at Mainland, it will be seen to be fast approaching Grissom, to which outside in space, many Saviour Ships will be seen. In between the packs of Saviour Ships either attached to Mainland or flying close to it, the Blue Aphrodite and Hydra Noon will be shown, to which deep within this ship, within the Medical wing, Perle and Sabrina will be shown in the same room. Their wounds from before will now be covered with new bandages, to which as they are shown, they will be resting in their beds.
Perle Luisant
...
Sabrina Madison
...
Suddenly, a knock on the door will alert them both-
"Knock Knock"
Perle Luisant
!
Sabrina Madison
!
Slightly surprised, Sabrina will then say out loud-
Sabrina Madison
...Come in!
As the door opens, both Sebastion and Cesario will walk into the room while pushing in a small trolly with some food on it. As they come in, Sebastion will say-
Sebastion Luisant
...We apologize for intruding, Perle and Sabrina. We had heard that you were allowing visitors to come see you from Bijou, so we decided to make you two some food to help your recovery.
Sebastion says, kindly, as Perle replies-
Perle Luisant
It's fine, Sebastion. I was actually wondering when you and Cesario would come to see us...
Perle says, rather seductively-to which Sebastion just brushes her tone off-as they are related. His brother Cesario then pushes the trolly in between the beds where Perle and Sarbina lay, where there are also some seats for visitors. As this happens, Cesario will then remove the lid on the trolly to revel the food-
Perle Luisant
Ah!
Sabrina Madison
It looks delicious...
Sabrina says, as both she and Perle look at the food on display. Cesario speaks-
Cesario Luisant
I'm glad you like how this looks. It's piri piri chicken mixed with smoked pork, white rice and pepper sauce with umqombothi for a side drink.
As Cesario says this, he will take up one of their chairs and then sit down next to Sabrina, while his brother Sebastion will do the same, but sit next to Perle. As they prepare to feed both Perle and Sabrina, Sebastion will kindly say-
Sebastion Luisant
I hope you don't mind being spoon-fed, Perle...
He says, as he kindly takes a fork to pierce one of the pieces of chicken. As he raises it up to Perle's lips, behind him his brother will also do the same, to which Perle will smile, as she thinks to herself-
Perle Luisant
"..."
In Perle's thoughts, she will open her mouth while pulling at the sides of her cheeks with her fingers, to which she says in an extremely seductive fashion while also sticking out her tongue, she will say-
Perle Luisant
AHH!...AHHH!
Perle says, as she then returns to the real world. Now, she just blushes a little, as she just opens her mouth and says-
Perle Luisant
...Ahh...
Perle says, as across from her, Sabrina will notice and will just roll her eyes-hinting that she knows what Perle is thinking. However, she too will also have a blush on her face, but won't say anything about it, as she will act more mature-
Sabrina Madison
...ah...
Sabrina says this with more modesty, as both Sebastion and Cesario then proceed to place the food into their mouths. As they bite down, they will pull out the forks, to which Sebastion will then say this, as he continues to feed Perle-
Sebastion Luisant
I heard from Bijou that you two were becoming more skilled in controlling the Tyranny ErotiCake. I'm happy for your success...but, if it means you two keep getting hurt, we will become worried for you...
Perle Luisant
!
Sabrina Madison
!
Both Perle and Sabrina will be surprised by this comment, to which Cesario then says to Sabrina-
Cesario Luisant
...Just seeing you two like this, in bandages and in pain is a lot to bear, you know. It hurts to see family in such a dire predicament...especially since we've just begun to get to know each other.
Cesario says, caring deeply for Sabrina, as his eyes will be so gentle and kind. His brother Sebastion will also look similarly at Perle, prompting her to speak-
Perle Luisant
I...sigh...honestly, I...haven't been paying attention to how much I've been pushing myself to fight-ever since we left Gleen. I just wanted to catch up to Divitiya, as she's so skilled in using the Tyranny ErotiCake, that she really doesn't need me or Sabrina-as we really do just slow her down...
Sabrina Madison
!...
Perle says this remorsefully, as if admitting that she isn't the right choice for the Tyranny ErotiCake. Sabrina will hear Perle talking of this, but will remain quiet-as if she too also knows what Perle is saying is correct. Perle continues-
Perle Luisant
However...as we've fought over these past couple of weeks, I think that both me and Sabrina have become...so much more than who we were before. Before, we used to always talk about how great it was that we had war veterans like our parents. We used to say that because we were their children, that was something like our own strength...our own pride.
Sabrina Madison
...
Sebastion Luisant
...
Cesario Luisant
...
Perle then leans forward, as she now looks similar to how she looked when she was controlling the Tyranny ErotiCake with Harmonics active. However, this time, her expression will be that of someone who has matured beyond what she was before, as she will then say-
Perle Luisant
...But now that I see that I have so many people who are all worried about us...I realize that fighting with Harmonics active or using the Wings of Light...is something I...no, we shouldn't use anymore. If we keep using those systems, then it'll just cause those we've been fighting for and risking our lives for all this time to continue to worry about us...
Perle now looks at the palms of her hands, as she looks at how they've become scratched up from overuse of piloting the Tyranny ErotiCake so much. She then says-
Perle Luisant
So...I think it's time for both myself and Sabrina to take what we've learned after all of this fighting...and start putting those experiences to use.
Perle says with commitment in her tone, as she looks up and then at Sebastion, who has been smiling fondly towards her. Across from her, Sabrina will then speak up, saying-
Sabrina Madison
Perle...I've honestly been waiting for the day that you'd say those words...and I think I know where this is going, as well.
Sabrina says, confidently, to which Perle says-
Perle Luisant
That's right. When we can stand up, I'll call in our "mentors" and have them help us to pilot the Tyranny ErotiCake even better. I'm sure Courtney and her friends will be more than happy with this chance.
Perle says, as she lays back onto her back-satisfied at the idea of getting to see her mentors, during the course of the next 4 days. Sabrina then says-
Sabrina Madison
Ooooooh...you don't know how long I wished for you to call them, Perle. Don't forget to get Divitiya over, too, as it'll be like another slumber party!
Sabrina says, as Perle then says-
Perle Luisant
Thanks...!
Now, Sebastion hovers a fork with more food on it over Perle's face, to which she notices. He then says-
Sebastion Luisant
You seem to be in good hands, then. That will put our minds at ease, Perle.
Cesario Luisant
Make sure you train well...while we pamper you and Sabrina a little bit-just for tonight.
Perle Luisant
"Smiles"...AHHH!
Sabrina Madison
"Smiles"...ahh...
Sebastion and Cesario say, with kind smiles on their faces. Perle then smiles back to Sebastion, as she opens her mouth and bites on the food, as Sabrina also does the same. Then, the scene will then transition...
"Scene Transition"
Elsewhere, at the far-left side of Mainland, deep within the back where the Engine Blocks are, a scene will briefly unfold. Here, the White Block will be revealed to be onboard-slowly draining energy from the Engine Blocks in order to power up its systems. As this occurs, within it's hanger, both the President ErotiCake and Vice President ErotiCake are seen to be connected to various cables, to which deep within their cockpits, several stasis pods are shown. They soon unlock, to which as hands come out of them, the chapter will end.
-CHAPTER END-