Chapter 2
Factors and Complications
SPARTAN CADET A01 – Dawn
It begins with a white blanket of blinding light that envelopes every part of his vision. Complimented by a searing heat that decided to grace themselves every time Gedric have the audacity to open his eyes for more than a moment. A second or perhaps two at most is how much Gedric can hold on in forcing himself to see, until the pain comes to. And for perhaps a split a second, he can faintly see the outline of the structure he currently resides in.
It did not take as long as he thought it would be until the discomforting pain starts to subside for every second in time after he has awoken, and he was only awake for barely a moment, too short to collect his bearings and other senses. At first the pain would diminish slightly after every blink or if he shut his eyes tightly, after a brief instant of movement and sobriety however he can only feel the ache in his sight if he opened his eyes for far too long.
But short his time to see maybe, he can already perceive where he truly lies right after he regained most of his capability of awareness. "I'm in a… room?" Gedric thought "a slightly modest one it appears…". The only thing he realize at the time being is the grey blackish ceiling that looks intimidatingly robust and smooth. Through his peripherals he can see that the walls seem to have the same nature of appearance as well, giving away an atmosphere of discipline and integrity to the small chamber.
Collecting himself on the circumstances, Gedric decides to have a moment of recollection over every event that has transpired. All soothing at first, Sword fight in the fields with his father, the affectionate look of a mother and a fallen steel star that shakes the earth and then… A flying monster abducting him away from the hands that cares... followed by…
"Torture…" Gedric thought "Anguish everlasting…". He recalled the confinement of steel cuffs around his wrist, the giant knifes and needles mutilating his meat. And most of all, the concentrated heat that pierced through his soul. The moment is long gone of course, but the memory of pain is still there. He hoped that the painful sensation could be discarded out of the mind just as any sort of pain he had during his bouts of practices. But it seems some wounds goes to deep, and this one has no interest to settle on shallow waters.
The thought brings Gedric back to this senseless reality and with great panic tries to move his body, the last thing he needs right now is to be restricted like cattle. He jolted his arms upward and appears to find it too light for his liking, he realizes it comes with an odd sensation of ache that is more of a tight sensation without any sort of pain whatsoever. Next, he motioned his legs and they come with the same feeling as well, feathered in weight and smooth complimented by unusual stiffness. "It as if someone molded my body" Gedric thought.
It is not but a mere seconds later the young boy realized that his figure can be moved freely and all the anxiety and fear that plagues his mind comes to absent themselves and replaced with bewilderment. At first Gedric thought the torment he recalled may mean that his frame would be damaged to a crippling state considering the amount of incredible pain and suffering it went through during its bout on that cursed torture chamber and yet…
"I feel… Swell?!" He pondered "what is happening… where am i?" so many questions all congregated to his mind, one after the other much more bizarre than the last. But heeding it now brings no answer, and he truly seek a good one right now. with no time to waste he lifted his body into a sitting position right on the edge of the bed he was lain, and proceed to look upon his surroundings.
It is a perfectly square chambers with no jot of flaw on its edges. All walls, ceiling and floor connected together and melded perfectly as if they are the same being. Now with his vision regained completely, at last the spectrum of color of the room becomes much clearer as is everything else he senses. The previous color of black and grey are actually grey and a tint of blue with immaculate shades on every corner, complimented by the shadows created where the light does not reach.
Decorations on the walls with a clear purpose of their existence. Shelves protruding from it and wardrobes that are attached to it with odd outlines that shows the points of interest. There is even a mirror besides it, all clean and clear some would mistake it for another world. Gedric looked down on his bed and can't help but realize how plain it looks to everything else, even the one in his own chambers in Starfall is much more sophisticated. It's as if the given bedstead is the bare minimum as oppose to everything else in this room.
Venturing slightly on his very strange predicament Gedric stands tall. In fact, the boy realizes there are no feelings of illness or pain After all, as if the moments of torment that has befallen before is just figments of a nightmare. That is of course… before he decides to look down on his body.
Wearing nothing but very short and tight trouser that reaches his thigh, he can see all the mutilations and sadistic scars all over his form. On his arms are lines of protruding serrations that comes from being sliced apart by knives or… something hot? The same manner of wounds can also be found all over his body from his torso all the way to the edge of his legs. A cavalcade of miniscule circle scars is also scattered all around, though he noticed those ones seem to have an organized placement to them…
Although with all things considered… "I am… Healthy?" Gedric contemplated. Deciding to test his limitations, he takes a position a swordsmen would, feet planted firmly and hands grasping an imaginary sword. He took up a short three swings in which he finds that he can move quicker than usual and swifter… much more focused…
That is until the last swing accidentally hit a nearby wall…
"AH!" Instinct takes over his voice, His right hand immediately grasping the left one that hits the steel wall, not a moment after a revelation comes regarding his condition. "Ah…" Gedric looks upon his left hand "no pain… what?". Though his confusion on his own state has been outdone by his shock on the perceived deep dent he made on the wall. It concaved as if it has been smashed by a giant sledgehammer.
proceeding to touch the wound he has made on the steel barrier; he tries to find some sense on the strange occurrence. Hands sliding from one edge of the wall back to the dent he created "Is this not a steel wall?" Gedric questioned in his mind "must have by chance hit the brittle part…" He nods with a smidgen of doubt. Even still… weakened the part of the wall maybe, it shouldn't be that easily faltered.
Though in this time Gedric settled with knowing at least he is fit enough to make a move "And I need to go home" He thought. He walked from one corner to another examining every furniture, decoration and points of interest. Learning everything he could on these abnormal circumstances. He looked upon the light above his head, a bulb seemingly creating its own light. In another corner he sees the very same display he recalled on the torture chamber that shows words and numbers that changes every second. Parts to another part, one edge to the other edge always he looked upon objects and machines outside of his paradigm. He couldn't help but to feel slightly overwhelmed and curious.
What worries the young lord for sure… is the fact that this room has no doors whatsoever…
"HELP!" Gedric screamed "PLEASE…IS SOMEONE HERE!" the boy is not tired but the choking sound of exasperation is clear from the words he shouted; the young lord is terrified. He looked around the room, convincing himself that every trap has a hole, that there must be something he missed to reach his salvation.
In a moment his gaze fell upon the mirror, gazing upon his marred figure and noticed… that something has changed upon his being. With eyes narrowed he moves closer towards it. staring himself with focus for every differences other than the obvious wounds all over him. And he perceives everything… all the subtle and broad changes his eyes can… see?
In which is actually the first part he notices. His eyes… it really seems like every moving spectrum of color from one end to the next resides in every part of his vision. Everything seems sharper, clearer. Every line of every object, every moving dust and winds all over the air Gedric seems to notice. No longer he can only grasp the blur or faint outline of it. He can see every root and coil in every light that moves past his eyes and yet… it oddly feels nothing changed at all, as if it has always been like that from the beginning.
He wonders back to the mirror and gaze back to his eyes. And comes to notice the next bit of change "My… my eyes…" Gedric stared in tremor. What was once light purple color of his father's has now been blanketed transparently by a deep red color. The purple is still there, giving of a bizarre violet red color that dances together in the light. Which of course the most prominent part that he notes the most is the fact that its-
"-Glowing…" Gedric thought. It's not a hard strong glow, but more of a figment of fire haze that stride around the flame. And the closer he is to darkness the more intense the glow, it is not strong… yet it is not faint either. Like two stars that refuses to yield to the morning sun.
He looked upon the body as well and saw that he is skinnier than usual and oddly paler, and his proportion seems to be transmogrified. The baby fat he used to retain are no longer there, though he didn't really notice to care with its existence. His shoulder looks more prominent and slightly broader. And his torso gave off a slight V shape and evened all-around. And of course, the many scars that covers the many parts of his figure. All in all, he looks… well and healthy. The hair seems to be darker than usual as well… seemingly… Pitch Black… odd.
He feels taller, but only for meager amount. He only reaches halfway the height of the mirror, and he rightly sure that his father is taller than it by a margin. Still… he wonders if it's merely his daze of imagination. Though considering his other physical deviations, he very much doubt that it is unreal. For now, he backs away slowly from the mirror and takes his attention elsewhere. There are other issues he needs to worry about at the time being.
Gedric approach to what he perceives to be a wardrobe of some kind. But it seems to be made using metal steel as oppose to the wooden structure that he knows of. He reaches it handle and proceed to pull it only to find that he incidentally ripped the iron handle away from it. He shakes his head to the wardrobe and to the handle back-to-back, confused on what has just occurred. "For a contraption made of metal… they sure are fragile around here…" He thought.
Still, he manages to recognize that the closet is opened slightly, in this Gedric notice that it seems to slide right rather than the usual method to pull it open "What odd mechanism…". He goes on to open it to see the many purely white outfits inside, some of it are without sleeves whatsoever, the rest are regular soft tunics and long trousers of the same color that compliments it. Taken by the fact that he is half-naked with only his privates being covered, he settled to wear them.
"These are very comfortable" He thought. The fabric seems to hug his body firmly but he feels no chafe and restriction on its wear "it feels breezy as well… like I am wearing a grassy plain". Nevertheless, he is more than satisfied with the clothing he acquired. Sighing softly, he went back on searching for a way out, as the sounds of metal bellowed eerily around and outside of the chambers that he currently resides. Cavalcades of emotion seems to swim freely on his mind as of now, it sounds like the structure is being ripped apart.
"Seven help me now…" He prayed silently "Please…"
Gedric wonders around the room for more than half an hour, rummaging through the wardrobe, the shelves, even looking behind the mirror and yet still he finds nothing to aid his escape, not even a hint of orifice around the walls. He sat back down unto the bed thinking hardly on his predicament "How did I even get inside this room?" He pondered. Nothing but the walls standing strong "Am I still in a nightmare?".
In mind he is mentally exhausted. He laid back down unto the plain comforting bed now with at least a modest outfit. In time of no endeavor or any at the very slightest leisure interest Gedric thought tends to wonder much more freely. And considering the situation it's not terribly hard for his imagination to go full well into the skies as he fabricated peculiar escapades.
In the end he wonders back to the painful occasion of that mutilating incident. What would be the purpose of such pain, to grace so much torment to a boy, it must have occurred for a reason whether good or bad. The pain is gone but he will always remember how it feels, perhaps in time he will sooner find the truth in all of this.
Not another half an hour after his contemplation he felt the weight in his thought grows heavier as much as his eyes, not a minute after he close it once again, hoping the next time he wakes there will come the vigor and focus he very much needed to escape from this cursed chamber.
The last thing he thought before dream befell him is a thought of comfort to ease his weary soul. "Mother… I hope you are well" He spoke in mind "I hope you are praying for me too…". He also recalled his father who most likely trying some way to find him, hoping to rescue him. "If anyone is capable its him, I know it". The last part of his thought cast away the last bit of tension in his being. "Father will come for me…" Gedric thought "I almost forgot…".
He fell asleep with a thought of surety. Whether if there is some truth to it only time will tell.
Steelfort Expedition
The ray of dusk can be seen clearly through the gargantuan hole where once was presumed to be a metal wall on the side of the steel fort. Its jagged edge and unnatural shapes that darts inward tells a story of an abnormal conflict of a battle that are of recent occurrence and heavily fought. For what else could do so large of a damage to a structure so heavily fortified with iron as otherworldly as it is mighty.
Other than the shape, traces of great heat blanketed many parts and wall both out and in of the structure as well. Smoky grains of black painted all over every dent and edge, some plastered resembling a hazy star on some portion of the ramparts, even a sizable crater from one side to the next. All clear indication of war hard struggle, which of course leads to another query "Against who?" The maester pondered "and why…".
Still… to many others the implication of another being out there powerful enough to fell what they seem to believe to be an invincible giant amalgamation of steel is a terrifying thought, one that motivate most of the men to work harder on the objective of rescue faster and harder to hastily flee form this abhorrent structure which most assume to be accursed.
To some others though, curiosity peaked and naturally some questions came to them one after the other, seeking answers of whatever secrets the construct may held… which of course no answer came to beheld as the walls don't speak and even the most learned man that is present is confused on where to even begin the research.
Quite fortunate that the jagged hole is large enough for a ship to enter, and the huge hall in which they had dock have space to held several. The architecture surrounding the area helps as well with an upward slope that connects to multiple platforms which eases the docking process, especially on the fact that the room is partially flooded. With such a huge room to work with, tents and camps have been organized and established, creating a small outpost inside the steel fort.
At first, only the ship led by the Starfall master-at-arms and the lemonwood knight of house Dalt makes the first venture inside of it. With Maester Volkron pointing towards many objects of interest and importance to be taken to his small chamber in the ship and then his tent rested near the metal wall of the fort. Learning all that they could on as far as the conditions can allow them.
They stayed for a couple of days until the ration brought from the castle have been mostly depleted. Though they have enough to last for at least four days, most man that have accompanied both the knight and the Master on the expedition have urged and pleaded to return to Starfall for more supplies to last them a couple more months. A time span that has been made due to the Maester's prediction that a development may take more than a couple of weeks, perhaps even more than a moon turn.
Orlo begrudgingly agreed. Though he can understand the merit of the idea, he knows the truth that all those who return for the provisions came from reasons of either fear or religious dread that seem to imply on the structure. He predicted that the once who goes will not be the same once who return to this steely dread, food wanting or not.
Still there are some who stayed, some who are loyal and another that are curious. More than a dozen man from what used to be a quarter hundred. In truth he believes that is more than enough for the undertaking, "More man means more food…" Orlo thought "Most will not put some work anyway… tis for the best".
Deziel Dalt however thought otherwise, considering the hellish steel beast they tried to face some time ago during the forts fall. Though their weapons proof ineffective to fell it, with great numbers perhaps they can rout it back and at best perhaps even capture it. Maester Volkron is one in mind with the prospect to learn of its nature, but considering the circumstances and his wish to prolong his stay. He finds the resupplying to be the wisest choice.
Not for at least 3 days after the ship departed, three more takes its place which brings more than just food. With lord Dayne taking the lead of the small fleet of three, each ship bringing more than three dozen man to brave through any hindrances, the lord spared no expense on this affair. And understandably so, the heir is in danger.
Not half a day after their arrival, they have finished their small makeshift outpost. With lord Dayne pacing with haste towards the Maester's tent. Every man he passes he greets with a stern yet welcoming nod with no fear and anxiety to show on his features. Though the same cannot be said for his true feelings on the matter, the very notion that he treads on uncharted grounds is clear to him and so is the unknown state of his son. Yet just like all things in life, to show and fear is to show weakness.
And all his man has more than enough fear for the time being with one foot on mutiny or desertion. Though he has faith on the once bearing his sigil, the lemonwood and blackmont he thought otherwise, considering most have come out of formality to aid another noble house for either out of an unspoken rule or a show of faith and power. It matters not to him as long as they help recover his heir.
"What News?" He asked for with a raspy voice, eyes drooped with darkness on its lids and the slight gaunt on the cheeks that are likely from exhaustion and fasting. It has been a week since the abduction that brings him more than just anxiety for his son's wellbeing and the needed logistic for Starfall due to the chaos from this event needs more than a modicum of attention. With the Lady being bedridden as she is close to delivery, the Lord have no choice but to took up the task all alone.
"More than many my lord" The Maester spoke "we found a wide door that leads deeper in to this structure, we sent half a dozen to scout the area briefly" He stands to his full height and proceed to walk over to the chest on the corner of the tent "on their journey they found not only roads that are forked to multiple destination but also strange artifacts that are scattered all over".
"Gedric?" Erick asked, with a pleading tone.
The maester solemnly shook his head, an expression of despondency blemished his features "No news on that my lord, this… thing from the stars… is insurmountably larger than Harrenhall and that is still an understatement" he looks down as he wraps his fingers together as if to find strength "He could be anywhere… but rest assured Orlo and some of the man has willed and took upon the task to his rescue, we merely have to wait"
"Some…" Erick thought. He dines with his man under him, gave them swords and taught them well. And yet only some would attempt his son's rescue. He understands the unknown danger of such prospect, but it doesn't disperse the feeling of treachery he felt. Once all this non-sensical troubles has been done, some changes need to be made. "Where is Orlo now?".
"Ah… he took up camp near the metal door my lord, preparing for another journey as we speak" Answered the Maester. Erick nods with a heartened spirit, if all else fails, Orlo can be count on, the man takes his vows and debts earnestly. "He was supposed to depart moments ago but decided to wait for your call".
"That is good" Lord Dayne said "I shall accompany him on this endeavour, it would be right to do so" His grip on dawn grows firm "it is my son after all we are rescuing".
"I wouldn't presume otherwise my lord" The chest unlocks and with a mild grunt the Maester lifts it open with a small struggle and stiffness "But before your quest inwards to the steel dungeon, might I show you what we have found on our first venture"
Objects and artifacts of unknown origin raised to its full height from the chests opening. Awkward long-shapes and the likes proceeded to be placed on the table at the center of the room spread neatly on its top. "These are the items we found scattered throughout this structure my lord" The Maester said, with a tone of subtle fancy "all of which with I assume for different purposes and use… which one do you want to start my lord?"
Erick looked down in curiosity on each of them, his hands wonder from one to another. Feeling their heft without raising it himself, caressing it from the edge to the other end. Though his gauntlet shielded his flesh from feeling its material, the low sound of delicate scraps gives enough indication on what it is "wood and metal?" Erick Inferred.
"Yes" The Maester Nods "though I would say that the one you are touching right now is of a unique variant as oppose to the other ones which are made purely out of steel" as he continued his explanation, he armed himself with another one, though it is shaped like a short-distorted spear rather than the small one which seem like a small short pipe jotting out from its hilt that Lord Dayne holds.
"Though they shaped rather differently, they seem to have the same mechanism build for one purpose" He studied upon the object as he holds it with a greater fascination "Destroy" he concluded "let me demonstrate it to you!" he exclaimed excitedly as he beckons Lord Dayne to follow him in pace outside of the tent. Though Erick is as inquisitive as well for the machinery. He finds Maester Volkron's gleeful demeanor rather uncharacteristic of him… endearing yet worrying also.
They arrive on their destination not a moment after. In a small and long clearing a meager distant away behind the Maester's tent, in which on the edge he sees multiple armor lifted by makeshift mannequins and some with a string attached by a stick above it. "What is this?" Erick Queried.
"Ah well it is none other than a testing grounds my lord… of my own making of course" The Maester answered as he works the weapon on his hand "designed to test the weapon you and I hold".
The Lord Dayne looks back to the small gadget he holds with one hand, oaken and true steel mingling together for a certain intent "This is a weapon?".
"Be not afraid of what is about to occur my lord" The Maester spoke "it is all under control, for I have tested it myself" The man lifted the weapon to his shoulder, seemingly aiming towards the armors on the edge near the steel walls. Taking a deep breath, he pulled the trigger…
And nothing happens…
"What… impossible I- "The Maester inspected the weapon once more for whatever fault. "Ah… of course" he lifts his head to the sky in good humor, as such for a man overlooking the obvious "my mistake…" The Maester spoke whilst holding the weapon on the center of its heft with a hand, while the other is switching a very small lever right above the trigger. "Alright, once more… prepare yourself".
He took up aim once again, inhaling and exhaling air deeply and calmly like the breeze on the morning sea and proceed to pull the trigger.
The sound of thunder immediately encased the huge chamber in which they stand, with a small yet awfully brief bright flash of light accompanying the loudness. Erick jotted in surprise; his heart instantly beats faster within not a second after his shock as instinct took over with his hands rested on his sword once more. "Volkron… What just happened!?".
"Behold!" The Maester bellow in delight "Delivering death through thunder in hand!" he pointed with the weapon at hand towards the mannequin… or whatever is left of it. The armor the overgrown doll has equipped is now accessorized with a giant hole right below the right shoulders, Large enough to almost rip apart its right arm.
"Hells…" Erick breathed with a tint of wonder. Walking towards the ripped mannequin followed by the Maester in his shadow. He touched the lifeless object on its superficial wound just as he did when he holds the weapon. Examining the damage, the smoky trails and the jagged edge of the broken armor. "This is a guaranteed death…"
"Might I also add that it is a castle steel forged armor" The Maester pointed "useless against this weapon… no other end but death as you say"
"It is the same for this as well?" Erick holds out the small object he holds, The Maester concurred.
"I can show you how my lord" the delight is still apparent in the Maester's speech as he urges the lord to take the proper position until…
"Erick…" A voice said behind them
"Orlo…" Erick turns his head in a snap, the adrenaline still in work.
The iris on the Master-at-Arms looks left and right with his head in motion. Examining the area lightly before he returns his attention back towards the two person of interest "I see maester Volkron took no time in laying bare our findings…" He spoke, with what seem to be another knight crept up behind him.
"I know you…" Erick speaks, eyes squinted "Deziel Dalt of Lemonwood" a tenor of surprise is elusive in his voice "I did not think to find another banner to come aid to my son's rescue… Forgive me for insinuating but… I would think you would follow the others back to land".
"I am a knight…" Deziel spoke with certainty "that title means something to me… and I know it is to you as well" he clicked his tongue "add to the part that you house me in your lodgings and grant me your courtyard for me and my squire, tis the least I could do and might I also say it is a… just cause as well… there is little reason I would not help".
"Very well said…" Erick replied with a nod "Though I might say there are more than a few …" He thought. Before his leave, many of his subjects and bannerman alike has been in a state of panic and fearful confusion. It took disciplinary actions to kept them in check but more than a modicum of them have fled Starfall. Many in silent, some openly.
Even then some still dared to throw accusation that is as absurd as a falling star. They say man and woman who entered the steel fort would be cursed to enter the seven hells and all who return from it a demon to claim more souls. Such words have been repaid with blood, but the implication still hung in the air. It would be prudent to say anyone who takes part in this exhibition will be condemned with false allegations of devilry.
Still Erick departed in his quest with a gathering of trusted and loyal men even with the castle being in mental turmoil. Still, he thought if his blade can further aid the venture to recover his son, he can make the sacrifice. The stake is too much to leave in the hands of others. Even now he believes in surety his man that is not with him as of now is fleeing his home as we speak.
"Erick… I don't care of fleeting loyalties and trivial issues in this castle" Leyna's voice recalled in his mind "Our SON is in that cursed thing… you bring him home right NOW" her voice is stern behind her extreme fatigue, destructive event such as this is not good for her expectant belly. And for that she has greater temper than usual.
"What say you on that weapon?" Orlo's voice released him from his contemplation "we found it on our first venture deeper into this construct… amongst other things".
"Other things?" Erick queried "Hmm?" though as he lifts his head and look upon his surroundings, He noticed that many of his man is surrounding him. Most likely curious and attracted upon the booming sound of the weapons making.
"All of you…" The lord of Starfall's spoke with irritated indignation "Disperse…". Hearing the intolerant pitch of their better, they immediately leave the area post-haste. With some eyes showing dread over other reason than his voice. No doubt the demonstration of this weapon here will just be another fuel to empower the fanatical rumors.
"We should go back to my tent my lord…" The Maester imposed "I admit perhaps in my excitement to show you our bounty… I did not think about the others thoughts on the matter".
"It matters little now" Erick said, eyes drooped in half as he examines the small contraption on his hand once more "Let us return to your tent… we have much to speak of".
"Yes, yes of course!" The Maester's glee returned "there are others that we need to show you… and I promised these ones are more subtle than the last". On their walk towards his tent, he beckons towards a man on patrol, with a hand gesture to quicken the pace "Go grab the wooden chest that I have told you to storage… urhmm… the one with a red paint on its left side… Go! make haste!".
Erick raised one of his brows "Another otherworldly object I assume?".
"You have no idea of a plunder we just brought my lord…" Orlo said "We venture quite far unto its inner sanctum… and find more than we bargained for I know it…" his face is impassive, but the grim sound of his words is telling.
"No… it's not magical I assure you" The maester intruded once more "I admit at first I arrived to the same conclusion as well, but after further study of the many artifacts I conclude with utmost certainty that the makings of these objects are craftmanship of science… I'm sure" the tone of frustration is clear "though I haven't reached the deeper nature of such artistry of the objects that we plundered from this structure, at the very least I can understand the basics of its mechanism… have faith in my words that I say that THIS is manmade weapon of the highest level of smithery!".
"Manmade…" Erick noted "how many of these weapons have you found?"
"Many my lord" The Maester answered "And with varied construct as well!" he ended with all the excitement of an old man, it would be endearing if not for the distressing circumstances "Though unfortunately we cannot bring them all here… we can only bring as many as we can hold in weight and not to mention the uncertainty of their functions… one wrong touch and it could potentially lead to damaging result!".
"How far did you venture?" Another question asked from the lord.
"Far…" Orlo answered this time "I know not the exact distance well as I and the man are on perpetual state of alert for any movement" He sighed, recalling the mental fatigue of focus on their expedition "We were quite worried another one of those monstrous metal beasts would ambush us… so we didn't think much to gauge the distance…".
"How long have you been gone then?"
"Three hours in total…" Orlo answered "two hours venturing in and an hour coming back" he chuckled lightly "The man chose to jog and run on our way back… they let dread took a hold of them… though I admit, it almost took me as well…"
He shrugged "however… we did not return due to fear only actually… we reached a fork… three ways to go to be precise, we did not know where each lead naturally, so the wiser choice is to get back and get our bearings… I think the man is just trying to find an excuse to return, though I can't blame them it is a good one"
"You find no one on those hours" Erick queried "Not a soul?"
"None…" Orlo replied "from chambers to chambers even to the largest hall we entered we found no one… corpses and living alike…" He paused for a moment, trying to find the words to say "We found the weapons, armors… other things as well, sparks of flame from broken walls, clean bed chambers with mirrors and wardrobes of odd makings inside… hells the walls even speak the same words as us!" He exclaimed.
"The walls speak…" Erick asked in disbelief…
"He meant the painted walls…" Deziel Interjects "On our journey we found many signs and directions using shapes and words as indications… all of them are Westerosi… common tongue…" He pointed towards a specific wall "Look there…"
"Hangar 11-C" is what is written on the top right corner of the jagged hole in which the ships have entered.
"I believe that to be the location we stand right now…" The Maester speaks "There are many words of directions that the man reported as well… mess hall, medical facility, armory, research and development… The implication of such discovery is many my lord".
"Which brings the question…" Deziel spoke "Where is everyone?" the halls seem to turn to silence on that query. The whispers and conversation of their retinue becoming much quieter, murmurs of the steel bellowed throughout the air as the ground shift slightly. "All of it is to clean…. To… immaculate…" He continued "We found these items and artifacts of many purposes but we do not find the ones that created them… much less anyone at all really..."
His face becomes all the more forbidding, considering the thought he voiced "though we searched for hours in this Steelfort, all indications of everything we found leans on the believe that this place should be occupied. Yet we found Nothing… No one" He feels dread with each word he spoke, but much needs to be said "Something strange is at work here. Far stranger than the things we found"
On the end of that statement, they have arrived on the tent with all of their faces down to ponder. Many things are now in motion that can barely be ignored. Already the thunderous long spear the Maester holds have bring revolutionary thought of methods of warfare to the present company.
The Steelfort that they are in also present many questions. The existence of purposeful objects that the expedition has discovered within it has implied of the existence of higher beings of greater civilization… or something close to that regard.
All of this underneath the mission to rescue Gedric… The lord couldn't help bur wonder in fear to what became of him.
"Go on Volkron…" Erick urged "Where do we start…"
"There is more than I can show you…" the Maester replied "it will help in our effort…". By that declaration the very same man Volkron called before has entered the tent, Bringing a sizable chest with him.
Shooing the man away, Volkron immediately unlock the wooden box and opened it for all to see. All the men present circled it, witnessing everything within it, focusing their gaze trying to understand every nook and cranny of all of it to no avail.
"What have the gods bring upon this realm…" Erick could hear Deziel Dalt whispered…
Little do they know… that, that is an understatement of the millennia, and the first step of revolution has already begun for Westeros. "We have many things to discuss than I thought we were" Erick whispered
"Then perhaps it is prudent to begin right away..." The Maester state.
And thus, the gentle light of dusk comes to an end, as the darkness of titanium steel shrouded the retinue in darkness...
SPARTAN CADET A01 - Dusk
Gedric is looking upwards to his mother. Her brunette hair shines brightly near the window of his chamber, with powerful gray eyes that glows just as powerful as the ray of the sun that graces her face. His head leaning on her lap, as she combed his hair gently with her fingers in one hand and a comb the other. With every second caressing and pinching his cheeks as well.
"One more year…" She spoke "Just wait another year and you can train with your father… please ask for something else" the pleading looks in her eyes enhances her strong brows and cheekbones, completely enchanting her looks. Gedric almost fell for her request, if not for his yearn of his dream. To become a sword master is to be the fate for all blood of Dayne's. one day upon his coming of age his brethren beneath the shadows of Starfall will judge him on such prowess. As his father and his forefather have been done and so will he.
That does not mean he would disregard other aspect of life… oh no… his mother wouldn't allow it. Every morning after breakfast, before he is allowed to be taught the way of the sword, he would always been sent to Maester Volkron with all the books and scrolls his father placed on his hands. Not but a year ago he is merely of 4
th nameday of age and have never step foot outside the castle walls.
It stands to reason at the time the lessons the Maester bring every morning are actually somewhat of an interest to him. He learns of all the lords and land of Westeros, their history, the dragons of yore and even the wall itself. All of this brings so much interest for him as before he only knew the shining walls of Starfall now he stands in revelation how much larger the world actually is. With all the wonders it brings…
The dance of dragons… the first men… the Andal's… Rhoynar. The Westerlands, The Reach all the way to the north beyond the wall. He absorbed all of it with fervor, naturally so since in most times he is bored out of his mind and reading books and lessons is quite a stimulating activity.
That is until his father actually agrees to let him play with sword on his 5
th nameday. Maester Volkron eyes goes wide and flabbergasted and his mother's mouth opened in despondent shock in the dinner table "Close your mouth sweet heart or I let my lips do it for me" he heard his father said, though whether it is the right thing to say it is unknown to him. The working of an adult is still too far of a notion for him to think about, though it seems to work as mother immediately slapped father playfully on the shoulder.
Regardless as an hour after mother pleaded to rethink father's decision, little does she know father usually have done much contemplation before he makes such verdicts, so her begging is of no use no matter what words she used. Though he proclaimed Maester Volkron's lesson to still be upheld. Which of course Gedric has no problem with considering his interest in the subjects taught as well. Though he admits he did grew jaded in some of it.
The Maester is also relieved on such news. Little does Gedric know, Volkron is actually quite impressed in the progress the young lord is making. Not long after Father also concurred with the same opinion in consideration to his progress on sword training.
"The blood is
Strong" father said.
And so Gedric find his answer…
"No" He said to his mother "I want to train now…"
She relented with a worried teary eye.
"I won't hurt him" father says "…much" the joking manner of his delivery has not been appreciated.
The ray of sunshine of the window becoming stronger and stronger. The intensity of it is actually starting to hurt his eyes. He lifts his hand to shield its light but to no avail. In fact, it seems to phase through his transparent flesh. He blinks his eyes repeatedly hoping to ease some of its ache until…
He opened his eyes wide…
"AH finally you are awake!" said a voice, his accent haughty and elegant. Unfortunately, Gedric cannot imagine a face to accompany such vocal sound as his eyes are currently being obscured by a powerful blueish ray of light that led him incapable to see the opposing party. "Thank goodness I have found you. I am starting to lose hope to find another sentient organic lifeform on my ship!" He carries on to speak with great relief "I mean there are the zoology animal containment and exhibit but… they are not much of a conversationalist"
Gedric stood up from his bed with swift and sudden movement, fast enough to be perceived as a cartoonish blur as he stands to his full height. Not wasting any time, he moves to create some space from the other person that has woken him. Although he just woke up from a blissful dream and a slight daze such actions are not beyond his capabilities. Spreading his legs and footing evenly and putting his arms to his side, he proceeds to look upon his supposed-captor, followed by disbelief...
"My Word!" The other exclaimed, only this time Gedric can see in full glory who or to be precise what is floating before him. A hovering machinery in a shape of a ball, its steel skin moving and bending alike as if it is actually a flesh made certain, on its center is a blue shape of a circle that conjure a protrusion ray of light of the same color. "Young man, you should not stand so quickly! It is not healthy for your blood vessels!" He spoke once more.
Again, Gedric blinks his eyes furiously once more. Ensuring that his vision has not been distraught by delusions due to his stupor. He aided it with a little rub from his hands and fingers to his eyes, just to open them yet again to a still existing flying metal orb of light. For longer than a minute Gedric stand and stare without movement, mind and soul trying to comprehend reality.
"Are you… well?" The orb asked "hmm…". A second after he speaks the circle on its center started to glow dimmer until it regurgitates a thin light that shaped horizontally that went up and down of Gedric's body. Instantly his mind succumbed back to fear and terror, as he recalled that the same action from the metal beast of a different type before has done so to him before the abduction. No doubt that this one has ill-intention as well.
"H-hold on!" The orb said, the tone in his vocal shows concern and confusion "Why are you… are you having a panic attack!?". The question regrettably has been disregarded by the other party, as Gedric breathing proceed to quickened in great distress. His heart beating so fast everything seem to move so slow to him. He observes his surrounding in fright, trying to find a way out, to escape from another hellish torture that he believes is waiting for him yet again.
"W-wait wait wait!" The orb speaks, now with a worried tone "Listen to me! I am not trying to hurt you" it urged, but to no avail Gedric crawled to almost the corner of the wall. Face marred with an expression of a snarl, his body ready to lunge and pounce at a moment notice. Observing this, the orb decides to be motionless in mid-air trying to appear as less threatening as possible "Listen to me" it says "Listen to my Voice…"
the emphasize is clear to the young lord as a glint of recognition appeared on his eyes. "Now… I want to make this clear for you…" It continued to speak, though it intended to be compassionate and understanding, one couldn't help but feel there is a condescending tone to it "I am NOT trying to hurt you… I am NOT trying to harm in any form whatsoever… What I want is to help You". The idea appears to pierce in to Gedric, but distrust still clings heavily on his glare. Still… progress has been made.
"I mean… come now look at me" it says playfully "just an ordinary floating sphere, I have no means to fight whatsoever… if you were to assault me, I would be rather helpless you know" the round shape on its center begone to narrow in to a certain form, trying to make an expression of a kind face. Though instead of being soothing it instead brings out fearful confusion due to the surreal circumstances. However, the notion seems to work as the shaking terror on Gedric's appearance is slowly turning to mild curiosity.
"Why don't we start with an identification process" it suggested "Here… I am going to point to a certain object with my eye, and you try to tell me what it is" it nodded trying to find a pleasant reaction from the boy "trust me and the process alright, it's for your own good"
"Here…" The ray of blue light turns to a spot "What is this?" it asked
For a dozen seconds there was an eerie silence on the chamber, until Gedric decided to open his mouth "It's… a bed"
The only glowing eye of the floating sphere goes wide, its metallic skin moves in conjunction giving an expression of glee "GOOD! Good! Very good indeed" it says "Now onto the next one…" its sight moves around the room once more, until It settled on a certain object on the other corner of the walls "Ah! This one! What is this supposed to be?"
"A mirror…" Gedric answered in an instant, his breathing becoming steadier.
"Yes of course" it replied "but what is its purpose do you think?" its tone turning into one of childish curiosity, doubtless to appear more approachable to the boy.
"It's for…" Gedric struggles to find the word, he actually turns his head and close his eyes for a bit with a click of his tongue as if forgetting the flying orb's presence in the room "it reflects or… imitate what stands before it?"
"Uhm… are you asking or stating?" the orb blinks "Also… that is actually what it does, not… what it is for… then again that is a wanting explana- "
"It's to aid in changing your appearance!" the boy interjects immediately, not willing to stand being corrected "people use it to help in ensuring proper appearance among… other things…" there are other purposes as well that Gedric wanted to elaborate, but his having difficulties in finding the exact words to do so, these types of occurrences infuriate him often in the past, usually followed by the Maester expectant support.
"How about this one!?" the orb asks again without delay, releasing Gedric from his frustration.
"THAT'S…" the young lord lunged his tongue for an answer without actually seeing what the metal orb actually indicating at. Instantly his tongue turns to lead as Gedric remains silent watching over the object that is being referred "I don't know what that is…"
"You don't know?" the orb queried "that's rather odd… everyone knows what this is… you have to live under a concrete rock to be so outdated… how old are you?"
"I am 5 years of age!"
"Oh… well, maybe your parents won't let you play with it until you're old enough" It replied "for various understandable reasons that is… though even then I doubt you've never seen one before"
"No… I've never seen the like of it" Gedric spoke, a taste of wonder on his voice "what is it? Is it magic?" Now the dread Gedric felt a moment before have been fully replaced by curiosity as the glint of marvel invigorate the glow in his eyes. The metal orb notices this and decided to resume the momentum. It moves its circular body right beside the pointed object before presenting it with a speech.
"Well… this is called a computer…" it says "it is actually a digital electronic machine that is programmed to carry out certain functions through computation sequence such as arithmetic or any kind of logical operation through- "as its eyes wonders back towards the young lord's feature, he notices the narrowed pair of eyes and the drooping half-open mouth. A clear sign of someone incapable in understanding his explanation, or perhaps there are some concepts that he does not know, the young boy is 5 years old.
"This is a computer…" it says once again "it serves many functions… making documents, creating videos, calculations or even answering questions … oh and of course… playing video games" it spoke the last bit with frustrated crossness, his metal body shivers slightly as well.
"Games…" Gedric eyes shot open again "You can play games with that thing?"
"W-well technically yes… but there are no actual gaming programs on this computer…" it replied "naturally so, considering your prospect you will have no time to play video games. Nor do the UNSC wants to divide your attention for something less productive mind you…" Recalling upon the situation, it returned its glowing eyes back to the Dayne boy. His expression is still slightly apprehensive though lightyears away from his state a minute ago.
"Ahh See! All the much better yes" It says as he appraised Gedric's steadier state "How about we start with introduction, hmm?" it suggested, with the cooing tone "I'll start first... My name is 655256 Steadfast Aspirant, I am the superintendent of this ship, my job is to supervise all of its working and due process" it says keeping his eyes on the boy as he slowly approaches him as less threatening as he could be whilst keeping his elaboration short and sweet "now… what is your name?"
The young Dayne inquisitiveness that was lingering before has now been dispersed with distrust returning yet again with an apprehensive glare. He is standing tall now, arms besides his torso, hands curling into a fist with the legs firm on the ground "Are you going to torture me again?" He asks, no matter the brave face he put, the voice still cracks with anxiety.
"What…" The Orb jitters in disgust "what on unified earth are you talking about?" it's eyes that was once a blue light that shone coolly now grace the chamber with intense white light "I have never in my eight hours of activation torture any lifeform be it organic or not!" the voice is stern although the elegant prose still subsist delicately.
The atmosphere in the room becoming more heavier by the millisecond. The once moment of wonder on being seemingly in another world has once more swept away by the weighty dread and terror yet again. Even so the young lord stands his ground, but with a hint of tear pouring slightly on the edge of his eyes as his heart goes into quickening.
"You did torture me!" he spoke with a slight sob and anger "you confined me unto a bed and mutilated my body!" He continued, with one of his fingers pointed crudely towards the metal orb "you slice and burn me away! WHY DID YOU DO THAT!?" from that last statement, his lips began to quiver and a single tear pour out from one of his eyes.
"Burning? Mutilation?!" the disgust is clear on its voice now "I… no, there must be some mistake… we don't condone any type of burning or mutilation to UNSC Members here… I'm afraid you must be speci-"
Not interested in letting the orb finish his sentence, Gedric took off his white shirt to reveal his many scars all over his torso and arms. Most already healed nicely with only a perfect line of scars that does not look beastly while a few jots out of the skin though neatly. "What is this then!?" He choked out "if… if you don't tell me the truth ill... I'll fight YOU!?"
It approaches closer towards the shaking boy "hmm…", examining his naked upper body that is unbearably marred with an army of scars neatly spread and flayed with perfect incisions. A moment after its tums its own back from the boy, the metal orb looked upon its surrounding. The eye wonder from every point of edge of the room to the other with purpose unknown to the young boy.
He noticed that the floating metal orb focused his gaze towards a certain spot longer than usual. A small crater on the steel wall near the bed and the broken handle of the wardrobe laying underneath the shadows of the bedding. He gulped his throat, seemingly believing that he has done something wrong and punishment would be wrought upon him.
It turns its body slightly towards Gedric slowly with a creep, the implication of such expression is loss on him. Though it is a naïve thought he can only hope for the best. "Would you wait here for a moment…" It says "I will be back soon…"
And like a fleeting flash of thunder, the metal orb with haste moved towards a wall that immediately spread wide open revealing another area. The shock of seeing a disappearing wall is briefly lost at the time being as another realization come in that there is an escape from this hell hole "W-WAIT!"
Alas, the voice that leapt from his tongue strike only the cold steel wall that was once exposing his deliverance. The blurry pace of the mystical floating orb of frustration is simply to fast for his words to reach. Gedric approach the wall that was once not. Touching and caressing it as he exasperatingly tries to reveal his escape once more.
He wanted to break it, kick and punch it open, to wry and pull It clean, but he did not do so. The workings of this wall are without question unknown to him, He did not want to break it and find himself eternally trapped in this confinement. Yet another reason within him believes that if he as much makes the wrong move, that metal monster would punish him once again, with promises of fire and flay.
He did not know how long he tried to find the way to get the wall to disperse, but he relent in the end, taking the orb's suggestion to wait. He paces around the room ostensibly unwilling to stay still due to the rushing of blood in his veins because of the outlandish situation he finds himself in.
The conversation he had with the floating metal has only summoned even more question to him… "What manner of creature is he? Is he made out of magic? Am I in a mystical place? it's saying that it is a superintendent of this ship… what does that mean?" With all the thought that whirled itself in his head, one notion brings out a shudder upon him "this is a ship?"
Gedric gaze wonder to the table where the thing called a 'computer' resides numinously on top of its solid clearing. The orb says it can answer question as well as other functions, "could the answer I am looking for in there?" He thought. He approached the swirling glassy screen of odd symbols on the computer, pondering how on the seven hells can he operate it…
Quite unfortunate though that the superintendent itself entered the chamber once more shining its ray of light onto the room. "Here I am again!" it proclaimed, the eye rotating towards the young boy "I believe you have questions regarding your predicament… don't you?"
he can only nod my head to its very stark observation…
"Well… why don't I answer a question that may or may not be one you intended to voice" It says as he continued to deliver yet another outrageous news "You have been a sleep for a week…"
The statement wrung itself tightly on Gedric's consciousness "That is impossible…"
"Unfortunately, it is due to circumstances… beyond your control that is to say" the orb floats back near the large hole where once a wall resides "So why don't you and I go to the mess hall together and we can grab some nourishment for you …" It suggested "I'll answer your queries as we walk on the way there… an empty belly is bad for your health you know, both mental and physical… regardless of your augmented stomach or not…"
"Augmented?"
"As I say… I'll answer that on our walk…" it makes a nudging motion towards the outside "follow me then…"
Seeing no other end and seeking answers to his curiosity, Gedric's plant his foot one step forward after the other. Treading outside he examines his surroundings to see that he is in a wide hallway with a neat line of opened walls with a similar shape to the one which he just saunters out off. From what he can see every chamber within lies empty with nothing but the very same furniture that littered the room he inhabits a moment ago.
"OH!" it exclaimed in a sudden stop "I almost forgot!" rotating back to face the young lord, followed by an enquiry "You haven't told me your name yet! What was it again?"
"…Its Gedric… uhm…" in a flash of recollection, he remembered his mother's teaching of etiquette. He holds his spine upright and head held high "My name is Gedric Dayne, Heir and son of Erick Dayne, and future lord of Starfall…"
"Oh…" if the orb has a pair of eyes, it would be raising one brow in amusement "You are one for dramatics, aren't you?" it moves forward again, beckoning Gedric to follow "I think I would have as much question to you as you will to me"
The both of them are pacing beside each other with considerable distances, wonder of the circumstances returns back to the young lord curious spirit, as he repeatedly loses sight of the path multiple times. Staring in awe from each turn to the next as he observes the steel walls and the many manners of rooms he passed, much to the superintendent dismay. "Come on cadet, keep up please…"
Turning his attention span back to the backside of the floating orb, he pondered on an odd detail in which he decides to ask "Are there no one else here?"
"Oh, there are!" It says as Gedric try to make pace with it "though I learned recently that they are quite indisposed at this moment..."
So, there are others here… "Whatever for?"
"Let's just say… they are currently frozen in time"
OFFICE OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE, SECTION THREE, SECOND COUNCIL MEETING LOG
CONVERSATION BETWEEN THE CHIEF OF STAFF OF SPARTAN OPERATION *** - A266 AND DOCTOR ********
SEVERAL DAYS AFTER PROJECT DIANTHUS PROTOTYPE DEMONSTRATION
YEARS BEFORE THE FALL OF UNSC LIGHT OF ALEXANDRIA
"We decided to deny your proceeding on project Dianthus, Doctor…"
"What… hold on… why!?" The staggered look that marred the doctor's face can be imagined from the aggravated disbelief on his voice "You saw the prototype! her effectiveness! Her durability!? I don't see a reason for this termination"
"There is actually" a creaking sound of a chair can be heard "The council find your procedure to be unnecessarily risky and dangerous to the interest of the UNSC and the unified earth government due to certain implications"
A snort and scoff from the other party is clear "what risk?" He asked "every step in the augmentation process has an absolute success rate if they follow every requirement to the Dot!" He leans his head forward, confident in his feat "sure the cost is as expensive as a planet, but with its success it could push our effort in the war against the covenant light years ahead! The Spartan's in this project is literally a walking Nova-type thermonuclear bomb in human form!"
"Yes, I agree" the other voice said, words flow out behind the shadows "they are dangerous… and they are also human" he sighed as he leans back "and there lies the problem…"
The doctor squints his eyes "I don't follow…"
"Your Dianthus procedure starts with the candidates being augmented first…" He states matter-of-factly "the educational programs will not occur half a year after the augmentation to ensure total adaptation, yes?"
"Right…" the doctor spoke "the very first phase of the augmentation process is an intense gene therap-"
Another sigh escaped from the darkness lips "Doctor… do you remember the Orion project"
"Yes, I recall it's failures but- "
"Do you know there is one specific issue from the failure other than the uncertain augmentation result?" he asked the question rhetorically. The doctor stayed silent as he pondered strongly.
"When they were deployed in action during the war against the insurgency… do you remember how many ORION's have defected to join our enemies cause?"
"Y-yes but sir, that is exactly the purpose of the educational prog-"
"Now I don't know if you have heard of this" the man clicks his tongue "but have you ever heard of the second-class batch of the Spartan-II?"
"Yes, I know of-"
"Good…" the air goes heavier "I'm sure you also recall their failure in team cohesiveness and hostility towards their commanding officer MULTIPLE times…"
Trepidation and vexation fill the atmosphere of the room, as the doctor still shuts his mouth to let the opposing individual finish the point that is already apparent to him.
"EVEN the original Spartan- II and III projects that we considered as a success, there exist many washouts due to failure of indoctrination BEFORE the augmentation…"
"But that's alright" He continued to say "We still followed and proceed on to those procedures… we take the risk… because we know if it failed, we can just clean house… but your procedure doctor… Your plan… if I let that slide it may lead to a tremendous catastrophic issue in the future, do you want to know why?"
The Video log jitters in anticipation…
"Because it is based too much on FAITH…" the emphasis is strict and hard in tone "Sure… we found the proper children who fits the genetic screening, we gave them the proper augmentation, we taught them how to kill, what to learn and how to think…" he continued "And then… what do you know… suddenly one of them decided to think that they know better than their superior officers…"
He kept speaking, showing no sign to stop barraging his points…
"And then another one came… who sympathies with an insurgent… believing that our engagement against them have been found to cruel and… inhuman. Before you know it! they got a spartan on their squad!" He smacks the table hard.
"We are confident on the original Spartan's because we can see the washouts before they become the WMD in human form, we made them to be… but if halfway towards your procedure we found a spartan cadet to be wanting… what do you think is going to happen considering there are already augmented from the start… what happened if let's say four years into their training one of them, gone rogue with all the power to destroy a fleet ten times over… what are we going to do then…"
The doctor decides to speak this time "We can have contingenc-"
"Its flawed Doctor…" Interject the wraith on the other side "We don't even need a Spartan this great of a caliber… I don't know why you have to go so far up this Frankenstein schtick… what were you thinking?!" He takes a small breath; the mental fatigue is palpable "sure... we can have contingencies for your project, but I can't imagine what heavy artillery we need, if such a thing happens… it's just not realistic! In consideration to that, we might as well just swipe it off…"
The Doctor turns his head in despondent, he catches his breath as well in frustration "So that's it then… all the resources gathered… the expenses… we are just going to discard all of those!?"
"No… the SECTION 3 council decides to alter the project"
"How so?"
"We're giving the augmentations to the existing SPARTAN-II and III's instead"
"No…" If the Doctor's tone before was frustration, this is helpless and hopelessness veiled into a sound "no no NO! you can't do this… this is wasting a gift… ITS LIKE YOU FOUND THE CURE FOR CANCER AND YOU DECIDE TO USE IT AS A PIZZA SAUCE INSTEAD!"
"Calm down-"
"It won't be as
effective; you know that right!?" He urged "their bodies can handle the strain, but they already have developed. The result would be a discount Dianthus"
"All the same… by the demonstration of the prototype you showed us, the effects still exceed expectations. Regardless of the gap of the result" the shadowed entity states "We believe this is the safe middle-ground to be had in order to procure safe benefit from the project instead of discarding it entirely…"
The Doctor only offers silence this time…
"I'm sorry doc… at least there is something we can salvage from all this mess… we can't handle another Ilsa Zane"
LOG ENDED