08/10/20
Meant to get this out yesterday but I wanted to edit it once more, really feel good about it. I do! I have my own personal doubts given how many times I reread it but I believe its as good as its gonna get. Following up Will i can't really expect it to top that.
My birthday is comin up soon! 8/19 WOO!
(Verb) Get or bring (something) back; regain possession of.
Chapter Twenty Nine
Retrieve
August 7th, 2056
Elma woke up this morning and found absolutely no desire to rouse herself from bed. While the expedition, finding Team Jaeger and fighting to bring them back to the Habitat Unit was exhausting, that was not at all related to why she didn't want to leave her room.
Letting out a heavy sigh, she continued to stare at the bare ceiling above, trying to think of what to do. She still had to find Jaynix but until the Habitat Unit could be fully and properly staffed, searching too far out was simply not a possibility.
She recalled her last conversation with Boris and Danny. She could take a Skell and travel the planet all on her own, leaving those in the Habitat Unit to fend for themselves. Part of her really wanted to do that. But another part of her thought of all the struggle she and Aeon went through to bring everyone here. He gave his life for this mission. Abandoning them now was something she couldn't do.
She knew what her duty was.
But the thought of Jaynix alone somewhere she could never find...that broke her heart every time.
It was well into the afternoon when Elma left her room, the roads of the Administrative District were slightly busier now with new Coalition officers rescued from the field going through their BLADE registrations. Spotting a vaguely familiar man on a bench, Elma approached.
"Penta. Correct?"
The man looked up at her.
"Oh. Colonel. Afternoon."
He seemed worse than the day before. Not that she could blame him. He clearly hadn't slept.
"I wanted to thank you, Colonel. For finding her...it brings me great joy knowing she's alive…"
"It's nothing to thank me for, Penta."
The man sighed, rubbing his eyes.
"What was your station aboard the White Whale?"
Penta put his datapad down.
"On Earth I was a doctor...with the changing technology I became a Mimeosome technician so...still a doctor I suppose. I'm good with technology but the overhaul the Skells are going through right now...it's all over my head…"
Elma took a deep breath.
"How well do you know Mimeosomes?"
"Well enough...is something wrong, Colonel?"
Elma thought the question she wanted to ask through several times before deciding against it. No matter what the answer would be, she didn't want to hear it.
"Never mind...I am sorry about Senti. Memory loss is a side effect but...it doesn't make it any easier…"
Penta nodded.
"I'm planning to apologize...regardless of what I know, she still thinks of me as…"
Sighing, he stood up.
"If I may, Colonel."
"Of course."
Elma watched the man walk away, very noticeably dejected. He was in desperate need of a support system. Friends. That meant finding more people. More soldiers, technicians, engineers, officials. Everyone.
As Elma made her way towards the central tower, she noticed someone falling into step next to her.
"Albus."
"Colonel. I feel I must apologize for not being around much. Not just for me but for Furvus as well."
Elma shook her head.
"No need. Though if I may ask, where have you and Furvus been exactly?"
Albus gestured up above.
"Our Neilnail Constructs are in fairly good condition so we've been running scouting flights as far as we can go...there is a lot out there, Colonel. A lot. It's overwhelming."
"Even for you? How different is this world from Qlu?"
Albus brought a hand to his chin.
"Very...Qlu was primarily forests and bright clean oceans...these plains, complicated rocky structures and systems of caves are rather different but what lies beyond it...even moreso."
Elma came to a stop, crossing her arms.
"You've seen beyond this region?"
"Just a little...we know of a heavy forest in one direction and a vast desert in another...that's about all so far."
Elma took a deep breath. Searching for anyone out in this vast world wasn't going to be easy, yet every new discovery made only served to pile on the weight. Shaking her head, Elma continued walking towards the tower with Albus in tow.
Administrative Tower
"The second wave of expeditions are forming up, do some of these teams intend to stay out there longer than the first one?"
Chausson asked as he looked over the various reports.
"Yes. We've recovered and fixed up several ground transports. Our engineers are working on an additional grav platform our rovers can pull along so that they can bring more people in and don't have to resort to walking."
Nagi answered as he looked through his datapad, making note of what teams were going in which direction.
Vandham looked over a massive holographic display which showed the current statistics of BLADE. Scratching his chin he shook his head.
"There are less teams on the second expedition...and we've received requests from some first expedition teams to go out. Again."
"Let me guess, Irina?"
Chausson asked to which Vandham chuckled and nodded.
"She came to me herself."
Chausson sighed.
"It's been one day, she'll run herself ragged and possibly drop dead if this becomes a pattern."
Nagi made a motion to comment on the likely intentions of that but held his tongue. Vandham only shrugged.
"I don't like to push...but we're not in the best position right now. Most of our Skells are still in repairs post-Starfall and the new modifications for so-called Second Generation Skells require a lot of work."
Chausson crossed his arms.
"Why did I ever agree to this vehicle modification anyway?"
"Because you saw the benefits to it. We all did."
Nagi stated.
"As for Irina and her team, I believe one of our BLADEs will handle it."
Before Chausson could question the Secretary, the door opened and pulled all three men's attention to it. Elma and Albus walked in, the Qlurian bowed while Elma saluted.
"Didn't expect to see you today, Colonel."
Nagi looked Elma over.
"I think I know why you're here."
Vandham laughed.
"We've all got an overwhelming work ethic. If you wanna go, then go. We're not gonna stop ya, Elma."
Nagi felt himself flinch upon watching Elma shoot a glare in Vandham's direction. The head engineer seemed confused, searching Nagi's face before realizing why the words he chose were poor.
"Can I speak with you, Nagi...alone."
The Secretary nodded, moving towards her. The pair left the room, walking down the halls towards an exterior balcony.
"I want to take my next expedition beyond this region."
"Elma. It's too soon. Albus no doubt told you about what lies in wait out there but…"
Nagi trailed off.
"No sense in stopping you I suppose...I just...I want you to wait."
Elma remained silent as Nagi continued.
"I know it seems hypocritical of me. I know you want to rush to your personal objective and I know I told you that we need all we can gather first but...you have to take care of yourself, Colonel."
Elma crossed her arms.
"Everyone knows that you aren't well. Everyone."
Elma closed her eyes as Nagi stepped closer and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Listen...give it a day or two. Rest. Then do one more expedition here, in this region. By the time you return we'll have a line of Skells repaired, upgraded and operational, including yours. I know it's been a longer wait than it should be but...well, I'm sure you know the difficulties we're all facing."
Elma nodded.
"Of course...I know my request is selfish but I…"
Nagi tapped his foot for a moment.
"You didn't happen to receive a message from Team Jaeger's Raymond Penn, did you?"
Elma raised an eyebrow before pulling out her datapad. Sure enough, there was an unread message there.
"I…"
"It's no trouble. He and Frye came by earlier for debriefing. With the information about what Team Jaeger was doing during Starfall, as well as learning that the Frontier team ejected from Pod Bay Delta, we have a presumptive search area of where their pods landed based off some White Whale wreckage as well as where Team Jaeger landed themselves. It's still a wide area but…"
Nagi shook his head.
"I'll keep it short. Find Kirsty, Tobias and their people...and then you can go where you will. With Frontier in place, we'll have better capabilities all around with a stronger network...all the details only highlight more work we have to do but…"
Nagi laughed.
"This isn't short is it?"
Elma sighed, Nagi watched her posture relax. He saw the tired expression on her face. The dull color of her eyes.
"Elma."
"I don't mean to be...so angry...so stubborn...so-"
"Jaynix?"
Elma froze, Nagi watched her, seeing the small smile form on her face.
"Yeah…"
"I don't want to say I understand...your connection to her is different compared to mine but I believe my bond with Kumon was similar. I get it. I do...take the rest of this day off, tomorrow you can bring your team together and go find the Frontier group."
Elma looked out over the Habitat Unit, nodding slowly.
"Alright…"
Nagi followed her gaze, letting out a long sigh.
"We really should start naming things...referring to it as the Habitat Unit isn't really...homey?"
Elma nodded.
"Any suggestions, Colonel?"
Continuing her observations, she shrugged.
"Maybe after a...notable city from Earth?"
"Maybe...I'll workshop it with Chausson and Vandham."
The pair stood in silence, looking out over the Habitat Unit for several moments longer before Elma excused herself.
Leaving the Tower, Elma knew she should head back to the BLADE Barracks, she said she would yet after having spent so much of the day in bed it wasn't a very appealing notion.
"You know, Colonel."
Elma turned to Albus who had followed her out of the building.
"On Qlu it was not uncommon for our people to walk the overgrown and peaceful forests to think…"
Elma nodded slowly, she understood the benefits of a little walk. It would keep but moving and active, far better than lying in bed for the rest of the day.
"Thank you, Albus.
"No problem at all...as much as I would like to accompany you, a lot falls on my shoulders as the Qlurian representative."
Elma shook her head.
"Do what you have to do, Albus. I'm sorry I haven't been by to see your people. Are they all doing well?"
Albus smiled.
"Very. They're integrating themselves with the non-combat personnel of the White Whale, bonding. Our cultures coming together can only benefit both of us...Rock is already looking into using his might to aid around the Habitat Unit...his way of paying back for having his life saved."
Elma nodded.
"That's very kind…"
"Some of our people wish to train and fight. Furvus and I are the most skilled warriors and we have less than a dozen fellow fighters after Starfall...we know you all need help with finding those lost to the Planet. We wish to aid in that as well."
Before Elma could reply, Albus bowed.
"For all you have done and for all Aeon has done, we owe you too much to repay."
Elma thought back to her brother once more, proud of what he was able to accomplish.
"...very well. If we can find more Coalition teams and their captains, we'll have more available teachers for everyone willing to arm themselves. I'm...looking forward to fighting and surviving together."
Albus smiled, holding one of his hands out.
"...and living together."
After a quick and firm shake, the Qlurian excused himself and walked away. Taking a deep breath, Elma looked around the Administrative District, not really the best place for any sort of walk. The park in the Residential District was rather small but that would have to do.
Nodding to herself, she started on her way. This was a good opportunity to think...but lately, she found her thoughts swarmed by all the terrible things that have happened. All the loss.
She thanked Albus silently for their little chat, it reminded her of what their goal was. Her and Aeon. What they wanted to accomplish and what she above all wanted to reach. Peace was hard but it was possible. Once everyone was back together...they could live.
Reaching the Residential District, Elma continued walking in silence, various faces of those long gone passing through her mind. She had to push through for all of them, she knew she could but actually doing it was proving harder than she was prepared for.
It wasn't long before she felt that someone was following her. It didn't take long after that to realize who it was.
"Irina?"
"Colonel."
Turning, Elma cleared her throat.
"Did you need something?"
"To be honest, I think we all need a little something...it's not that wild of a guess to assume you tried to get in on another expedition."
Elma could only smile, small and faint.
"I did too…"
"What is it that people like us were told to do back on Earth? Get a life?"
Irina chuckled as her gaze traveled around the park, several civilians sitting together and talking. Everything was calm.
"Maybe...while I would love to keep working, Frye has been up to something and he's been calling on all of us from the first expedition."
Elma raised an eyebrow.
"He claims he had the best idea. Ever."
"Of course he does."
"I can tell you probably don't want to take part but Frye is already making the preparations so as he put it...we don't have a choice."
Elma rolled her eyes.
"What is it that I'm not taking part in?"
Irina gestured to the road ahead.
"Follow me."
While part of Elma wanted to spend the rest of the day alone, she didn't want to lose the bonds she's formed with the Skelletons and the rest of her friends. The people who were still here. Alive. Right in front of her.
With a nod, Elma followed Irina through the Habitat Unit and to their destination.
It didn't take long to reach the edge of the Industrial District where a very peculiar building sat. Neon lights flickering on and off as several BLADEs worked to get them up and running along with a small group of technicians. All the while, Frye stood aside and barked orders.
"Dang Frye, it's really coming along."
Turning, the man punched Gwin in the shoulder.
"What do you expect? When it comes to alcohol, I'll always go the extra mile."
Gwin chuckled.
"I don't think that's something to be proud of."
Frye simply shrugged before moving towards a few BLADEs who were calling him over. Gwin turned from the commotion to see Elma and Irina approaching.
"Colonel! Lieutenant! Glad you could join us."
Irina nodded.
"What did you expect?"
"Doesn't matter, you're both here now and that's the best outcome!"
Elma's gaze moved to the building they were all gathered around, the neon lights now working and forming the name. Repenta.
The BLADEs and workers cheered as Frye moved towards the rest of his group.
"We may have lost the Cabin back on Earth but who's to say we can't all have a new watering hole to gather at eh?"
Irina crossed her arms.
"Part of me is worried about asking how much of our not unlimited supplies you used the fabricators to stock this place."
Frye laughed.
"Then don't ask...it's not like any of us have a makeshift alcohol producing plant in our back pockets right? Gotta make do with what we've got."
Turning back to the crowd, Frye clapped his hands.
"Thanks all y'all for your stellar work. Bills! You knew just the task to get out of bed for, eh?"
"What do you take me for Christoph?"
Bills yelled back, a wide smile on his face.
"Anyway, we're all up and running so everyone get on inside and let's just forget the bullshit for one night, how's that sound?"
The gathered crowd cheered once more before entering the diner, Frye laughing all the while before turning back to his friends.
"...Elma, this alright with ya? If I'm being honest, it's all worthless if it isn't."
Elma sighed.
"You went through the trouble of setting all of this up which is honestly more work than I've put in today."
Irina shook her head.
"Don't think of it that way. Think of all the work you've been putting in since our time on Earth. You've long since earned a little break...and you deserve to take it easy."
Elma looked from Irina to Gwin, both smiling before staring at the diner once more. While she knew there were only four of them standing there, she could just barely feel a fifth presence. Someone who would love nothing more than to drink the night away with her friends and family.
"Frye...lead the way."
Clapping his hands, Frye nodded, turned and headed into the diner with Elma, Irina and Gwin following closely.
August 8th, 2056
Elma sat at her table, drink in hand watching several rowdy BLADEs attempting to dance in the middle of the diner. Everyone was doing rather poorly but the mood was light and everyone was smiling.
Elma's gaze moved to Gwin who was doing shots with several others while nearby Bills was encouraging him while eating an absurdly oversized Burger. Her attention then moved to Irina who was with Sharon on the other side of the diner. She wasn't sure what conversation they were having but she was glad they were talking.
Frye approached and sat next to Elma, a heavy sigh escaping him as he placed a full mug of beer on the table.
"Well past midnight isn't it…"
"It is."
Frye laughed.
"Just what I wanted…"
Elma took a sip, watching Frye grab the rather large glass and bring it to his face. By the time he put it down, more than half of it was gone.
There was a short silence before Frye laughed.
"If she was here, she'd chug it all in one go just to show me up."
Elma nodded.
"She would."
Frye sighed.
"Sorry. Shouldn't have brought that up. I threw this little shindig specifically to avoid talk like that."
"It's hard to."
Frye simply nodded before finishing off the rest of his drink.
"I do want to thank you, Frye. This was a great idea and honestly...what I needed. What we all needed, just like you said."
Frye turned to Elma.
"Of course it is...I don't pretend to ignore the severity of our mission. I know we need to find more people and there are a specific group of people we desperately need...but running ourselves ragged...that we can't do…"
Frye's gaze moved to Irina and Sharon, the latter of which was pushing the former away.
"...as much as we may want to…"
Elma put her glass down, now empty as well.
"...Frye...you do want to find Phog. Right?"
The man tapped his fingers against his empty glass.
"Not really."
Scratching the back of his head, he turned to Elma.
"I don't mean that I want him to be dead...or that I don't want anyone to find him...I just...I don't want to be the one to find him."
"...of course."
Frye looked at his empty glass and cursed. He really needed another at this exact moment.
"...it's a tricky thing to think about. To talk about. And it's highly likely I'm being incredibly childish and immature but...I can't fight these feelings."
Elma nodded.
"Many people can't."
"Not even she could...as hard as she tried…"
Frye ran one of his fingers along the rim of his glass. Moments later, Gwin returned to the table, slamming two large mugs down and laughing.
"That Bills guy is alright!"
Without hesitation, Elma took one of the mugs and leaned back, drinking a large portion of it as Gwin watched on, surprise evident even in his drunken expression.
Putting the mug down, Elma looked to Frye, a large smile on his face before he broke out in laughter.
"If that's the Colonel's response then this party is far from over!"
Gwin nodded, surprise gone from his face.
"Glad to hear it!"
Gwin walked around the table and sat on the opposite end as Irina and Sharon approached.
"Hey there Effinger!"
"I'll snap your fingers in two, Christoph."
"Do your worst, I doubt I'll feel it!"
Frye laughed as the two women joined them. Bills came by with several more drinks for them, patting Gwin on the back and congratulating him for some victory before taking off.
Frye raised his mug, tilting his head and waiting. Elma brought hers up first, then Irina. Jamming her elbow into Sharon's side, Irina gave her a look before the other woman did the same.
The four then looked to Gwin, who was almost completely out of it. Realizing what was going on, he raised his glass.
"What are we toasting to, Frye?"
Irina asked, prompting the man to search his mind. A chuckle escaped him as he took a deep breath.
"To something more."
The other four nodded before all five mugs hit one another.
August 10th, 2056
Elma found herself standing outside of the Habitat Unit, looking over her gear as a vehicle approached. Satisfied with her loadout, she looked up to see Irina behind the wheel.
"Colonel."
"You're coming along this time, Irina?"
The other woman smiled.
"If that's not a problem."
Elma nodded.
"Not at all...I guess that means Gwin is leading your team this time."
"He is. I trust him."
The pair turned to see Frye approaching, drinking from his flask and wearing that same crooked grin.
"Seriously Frye? Even after that all nighter?"
The man turned to Irina and nodded.
"Especially after that all nighter."
Coming to a stop, Frye shrugged.
"By the way, it was the night before or did you getting drunk off your ass throw off your timing?"
Irina said nothing, simply retrieved her datapad to check the date before facing Frye once more.
"Shut the hell up."
With a crooked smile, Frye turned and gestured past Elma.
"He coming along too?"
Elma turned to the man behind her.
"Albus? Yes. He is. He requested as much."
Albus bowed to the BLADEs, Frye did the same albeit awkwardly while Irina simply nodded in his direction.
"Furvus and I have spent a lot of time in the sky...all in our effort to-"
Frye waved him off.
"Don't mention it."
Albus stood for a moment, thrown off before nodding.
"Very well."
"It's actually a great thing you're coming along, what with all of your airtime. It'll definitely be easier to find what we're looking for."
"I hope not to disappoint."
Elma, Albus and Frye got into the rover as Irina checked over the systems.
"A lot of our transports were lost after Starfall but our teams are working day in and day out to get us off our feet. According to Team Jaeger's information and some models of the White Whale's crash we have a general area about four days out to search...the rover will make it quicker. Not to mention Gwin's team is deploying to the same area to aid in our search."
Satisfied with her final checks, Irina pressed down on the gas and the vehicle took off along the wide plains of the region.
"I imagine it'll be...hard to get back if we find too many people…"
Frye nodded towards Albus.
"He's got a point. I ain't letting anyone sit on my lap."
Elma shook her head.
"We won't need to. In the trunk we have a newly developed grav platform courtesy of the engineers. They used quite a lot of their personal supplies to get these ready so we have to be very careful with it."
Frye scratched the back of his head.
"Grav platform? Like for loading?"
Elma nodded.
"We only have room on the backseat for one more person but the engineers modified the grav platform so we can hook it to our rover, it's gated so we won't have to worry about those we find falling out. It's like having a sidecar that can seat at least four more people, hopefully at least one is a member of Frontier."
"Don't forget, we're still on the lookout for any and all Lifepods, as important as finding a member of Frontier may be, we're still missing a lot more people."
Irina added as the rover continued along.
"Were you all aware of Chausson's announcement?"
Frye, turned to Albus.
"What announcement?"
"He, Nagi and Vandham decided on a few names."
Elma stated to which Irina nodded.
"Right, I heard about it...you were probably still too tipsy and missed it, Frye."
"Speak for yourself! But...just in case, what were they?"
Irina laughed as Elma spoke up.
"The Habitat Unit...they decided on the name. New Los Angeles."
Frye smirked.
"NLA? Rolls off the tongue. I like it."
"As do I."
Albus stated, earning a pat on the shoulder from Frye.
"As for this region. Wide plains, tall mountains and alien structures. The name was Nagi's call. The Wide Savanna Region: Primordia."
Frye let out a long whistle, turning to see the vast plains of the region speed by.
"Primordia...that's a good one."
August 11th, 2056
Elma, Frye, Irina and Albus arrived at the edge of the estimated location for Lifepods ejected from Bay Delta early in the morning. The group knew that the projected area was rather wide and it was possible that it wasn't entirely accurate given that no one knew exactly how the White Whale broke apart during Starfall.
The group decided to travel deeper into the area before breaking off into pairs and searching for Lifepods. It was likely that Gwin's team was doing the same, either way, every Lifepod they found was a victory.
"Shouldn't be too hard, right?"
Frye stated to which Irina shook her head.
"All you accomplish by saying that is ensuring that it'll be hard."
"We've been through worse."
Albus turned to Elma.
"How has your interaction with life on Mira gone so far?"
Elma thought back to their battle against the creatures alongside Team Jaeger.
"First impressions weren't good."
"I see."
"...what about you?"
Albus looked up at the sky.
"From above...this land is even more beautiful and the creatures that live here are as glorious as they are terrifying."
Albus seemed to realize something.
"Frye, would you mind driving us towards that mountain and...stopping for a few moments."
Frye looked to Albus, unsure before shrugging.
"Why the hell not."
Moving to the designated place, the group waited. Every so often Frye tried to ask Albus why they were here but he simply raised a hand and asked him to wait. Irina turned to Albus who could see from the look in her eyes that she knew what he was planning. Albus brought a finger to his lips, earning a nod from Irina.
However as the wait continued, Frye's constant questioning caused Irina to order him to be quiet before addressing Albus."
"Frye isn't patient. I'll apologize for him."
The Qlurian chuckled.
"I gathered that. It's of no worry to me, after all…"
Albus trailed off just as the ground shook. Frye raised an eyebrow.
"Irina, did you move us?"
She smiled.
"Nope."
As the ground continued to shake, Albus got out of the vehicle and moved farther away. The rest of the BLADEs followed him to a point where they could see beyond the mountain.
They waited in silence as a massive creature emerged from behind the structure. Frye let out a long and amazed series of curses as the creature continued to walk along, every step shaking the ground.
Elma wasn't sure what she was looking at, it reminded her of the dinosaurs she'd learned about from Earth. The long neck stretched high into the sky.
As it continued along its path, Irina turned to Albus who spoke.
"I've observed these creatures while on my scouting missions. I understand your division was more interested in learning where the planet is but it is good to know you knew of them as well.
Irina nodded slowly.
"I did...but seeing them from the ground is completely different…"
The BLADEs continued watching as the creature walked farther and farther away, Albus commenting.
"I don't believe these creatures are hostile but it's best not to tempt fate, yes?"
The BLADEs nodded towards Albus as Frye continued to observe the area.
"This is as good a place as any to start our search."
After a short discussion on when and where to meet up, the group broke apart. Frye left with Albus while Irina and Elma took off in the opposite direction.
Elma and Irina's walk was largely in silence, the pair observed their surroundings and kept on task. Finding Lifepods was difficult given the scope of the planet. Every time Irina flew a scouting mission it increased her doubts that they'd find them all. Something she made sure not to let anyone else know.
As the walk continued, Irina looked to Elma. This really wasn't her place but she had to try. Elma was important to her and so she would.
"It's been a while, hasn't it Colonel?"
"It has…"
Elma slowed her pace, looking down at the ground and thinking something over. Irina kept quiet, waiting for Elma to find her words.
"I am sorry, Irina."
Not what she expected, Irina shook her head.
"Elma, there is nothing you have to apologize for."
Irina looked past her comrade to see a sheer drop not far from them. Approaching it she looked down to see the ground broken apart by what looked like a swamp. Beyond it was the open mouth to a cave, several creatures wandered in the waters below.
"I don't believe I've been fair to you. Or Gwin. Frye. Anyone."
Irina looked from the ground below to Elma and held out her arm to stop her. She gestured towards the drop and the swamp before directing them to an alternate path.
"What are you saying, Elma?"
"Since Starfall I've been so…"
Elma shook her head, not wanting to use the word but she knew she had to.
"...I've been obsessed with finding Jaynix. Bringing her home. She means...a lot to me...because of that, I haven't taken the time to appreciate you. Gwin. Or anyone else for being here...you've all been by my side just as long if not longer...that night at Repenta reminded me of why you aren't just the Skelletons that I lead...but my friends that I cherish."
Irina came to a stop, turning to Elma so she could see the wide and proud smile on her face.
"You have no idea what it means to me to hear you say that, Elma...but you have to know that we don't...we've never felt...abandoned, neglected, forgotten or ignored. We understand your pain. All of us do. We've all lost someone. Something we're…"
Irina sighed.
"We're dealing with it in different ways. All of us. Frye drinks and laughs. Gwin struggles, trying to be stronger. Boze meditates. Nagi prays. Sharon hunts…"
"And you?"
Irina shook her head.
"I…"
Letting out an empty laugh, Irina looked away.
"I...don't."
The women stood in place, thinking. Elma moved closer first, placing a hand on Irina's shoulder.
"Perhaps we should try and talk about it...openly. Both of us."
"I don't think I can."
Irina took a deep breath before facing Elma.
"Can you?"
With a sad smile, Elma shrugged.
"I have to try. I can't keep holding it in."
The pair returned their attention to the swamp as they moved closer, several smaller creatures scurried away from them. Ripples in the water signaled something lurking below, Elma's eyes scanned the pools, looking for anything of note.
Irina tapped her shoulder and pointed towards a far off and lonely pool. Before Elma could question why, she saw it. Half submerged in the murky water.
"A Lifepod."
Irina let out a satisfied sigh before making her way towards their bounty, Elma following her moments later.
"I'm glad the creatures around here don't seem to care about us all that much."
Elma nodded, keeping her eyes on the waters they passed by just in case something decided to be less than friendly.
"Any idea on how we can get it out of the water? Wouldn't want whoever is in it to get drenched the moment they wake up, right?"
The pair came to a stop near the Lifepod. Elma brought a hand up to her chin.
"The Lifepods in this mode are only capable of some minor defenses...like delivering an electric shock to anything touching it or frightening things off by emitting a loud alarm."
"Don't they have thrusters? Y'know so they can course correct and land safely?"
Elma tilted her head.
"Are you thinking of starting it up?"
"At least enough to get it out of the water."
Elma nodded.
"Maybe...I'll check the diagnostics."
Irina stood back as Elma approached, standing at the edge of the water she leaned in and opened one of the panels along the side of the Lifepod.
As she began inputting the necessary commands, she noticed something moving below her. Bubbles began to form in the middle of the pool causing Elma to jump away and draw her blades.
A creature burst out of the water, throwing the Lifepod out. Irina watched the device hit the ground near them before turning to the flying creature as it screeched.
Whatever it was, they could at least make out that it was fish like. Several long tentacles came off its body and sparks ran up and down the long appendages. Letting loose another shriek it flew towards the BLADEs.
Irina opened fire on it first, attracting its attention. Spinning around, the creature sent out several electric charges. Irina continued to dive and roll away as the attacks struck the earth and erupted in clouds of dust and dirt.
Elma moved in from behind, leaping into the air and cutting across the beast's hide with both blades. Spinning quickly, the tentacles whipped Elma and threw her back.
Irina fired an explosive round which disrupted the creature's attack.
On her feet once more, Elma jumped and slashed through one of the tentacles, the appendage falling to the dirt and letting out one last shock.
Hitting the ground, Elma rolled under the beast as it flew over her and into Irina's line of fire. Swapping weapons, Elma turned and fired on the beast as well, it continued to screech as Irina charged her next shot and fired. The explosion threw the beast to the ground where it twitched until it fell still.
Putting her weapons away, Elma sighed. Irina moved closer and put a hand on Elma's shoulder before gesturing to the Lifepod.
"It all worked out in the end."
Both BLADEs moved towards the Lifepod, Irina hanging back as Elma resumed interacting with the control panel and entering the relevant information.
Stepping away, she waited as the Lifepod opened up and the person inside began to rouse from their nap. The woman had blonde hair and wore an all white suit. Shaking her head she opened her eyes and examined her surroundings. Carefully, she stepped outside of the Lifepod, her gaze finding Elma and Irina rather quickly, both of them reacting in notable surprise.
"Lieutenant Akulov. Colonel Elma."
Clearing her throat, Irina nodded.
"Eleonora...sorry I never did get your title."
The woman shook her head.
"It's of no importance...I must thank both of you for waking me. How much time has passed since…"
"Since Starfall."
Elma finished, to which Eleonora nodded.
"It's been fifteen days."
Irina answered. Eleonora looked away from the BLADEs to the creatures still roaming nearby and largely uninterested in the women.
"Fifteen days…"
Eleonora began to ask something else but shook her head.
"Any further discussion can wait until we return to the Habitat Unit."
Elma nodded.
"It is a...surprise to find you in the presumed crash site of Pod Bay Delta...were you with the Frontier team at the time of Starfall, Eleonora?"
There was a short silence as Eleonora seemed to think about how to respond. Flashing a smile towards Elma, she spoke.
"No. Due to the battle raging outside the White Whale, I was unable to reach Pod Bay Epsilon so I had to change course."
Elma raised an eyebrow.
"Epsilon?"
Irina's datapad came to life at that moment. Retrieving the device, she read over the partially sent message before calling out to Elma and Eleonora.
"Hey can this wait? Frye sent a message...part of a message. All it says is they found a Lifepod...it's probably best that we head back and wait for them."
Elma and Eleonora kept their eyes on each other, the latter was smiling before Elma decided to drop it and move out. Gesturing for both of them to follow.
As Elma and Irina took the lead and kept their guard up for any more potential threats, Eleonora came to a brief pause. Turning, she looked in the direction of the sun as it continued to travel overhead.
"Fifteen days…"
"I do not think this is wise."
Frye laughed off Albus' concerns and continued climbing. The pair spotted a Lifepod partially buried in a rather steep cliff. Several of those creatures that the group fought off to save Team Jaeger were not far off, with smaller ones sleeping at the bottom of the cliff.
"I believe the smarter choice would have been to find a way around and drop on the pod from above."
Frye, had instead decided to sneak past the sleeping beasts and scale the cliff wall, he was currently halfway to the Lifepod and for every concern that Albus raised, he simply shook his head and laughed.
"You are a strange man."
"I could say the same to you, Albus. No offense."
The Qlurian raised an eyebrow.
"Strange how? I believe when it comes to those in power on Qlu I was fairly levelheaded and honest. Furvus is more prone to embellishments."
Frye chuckled.
"Was that a little bit of passive aggressiveness? Huh. Maybe there really isn't much different between us, eh?"
Albus sighed.
"I did not mean to insult. Don't misconstrue my words, Furvus is a valued companion."
Albus' gaze began to wander, spotting an alternate path he began ascending around the cliff face as Frye reached three quarters up.
"While we're here. I'd like to learn more about those fancy Constructs of yours."
"The Neilnail Constructs? I'm afraid the technology and method used in their development is a closely guarded secret and not something we have ever shared, even with Aeon."
Frye whistled.
"Playin' it close to vest eh? No worries, I don't want to steal the tech, if anything I'd like to try my hand at piloting one."
Albus prepared to respond when Frye cursed, a rock he had a hold on gave way and fell to the ground below. Both men froze in place as the rock hit the side of one of the sleeping creatures. They both watched as it rolled over and kicked its legs, but did not rouse from its slumber.
Letting out a long breath, Frye chuckled and continued moving upwards, Albus commenting.
"Perhaps we should stop talking."
"Now where is the fun in that?"
Albus sighed once more as Frye reached the Lifepod and began entering the commands. Normally only high ranking BLADE officials would have the rights to open Lifepods, but with the drastic reduction in available personnel and the desperate need for more allies, select BLADEs were given temporary access codes.
Elma gave Frye his personally. The man smiled remembering that small exchange.
"Is something wrong?"
Frye shook his head, realizing he had paused in the middle of running through the commands.
"Nothing. Just thinking back on some memories."
Albus nodded.
"No offense but I imagined that your memories would be mostly...negative. Given what has happened to your people."
Frye looked up to see Albus at the top of the cliff wall.
"I could say the same to you. We were both chased off our home planets."
Albus brought a hand to his chin and nodded.
"Indeed…"
Finished with the commands, Frye watched as the Lifepod struggled to open. His eyes moved to the end of the device embedded in the cliff wall, holding the door back.
"So much for a gentle touch."
"I wouldn't."
Moving back, Frye focused. A smirk formed on his face as the light of Overdrive covered his body. Reeling his leg back he kicked the Lifepod's jammed door, pushing half of the sliding mechanism back and breaking its hinges.
Bending down, Frye pulled the unconscious man out of the Lifepod as Albus spoke up.
"Recognize him?"
"Sure do. Doctor Arnold Bradbury. MMC staffer. Probably couldn't make it to the MMC during Starfall."
"A doctor. A good find."
Frye nodded as the Lifepod began to move. Looking at the cliff wall again, Frye noted that in wrenching the door open, he disturbed the part of the wall it was buried in and it could no longer hold onto the Lifepod.
"Shit. Catch!"
Overdrive flowing, Frye hurled Doctor Bradbury up the rest of the way. Acting quickly, Albus reached out and took hold of the man as Frye leapt off the Lifepod, kicking it free.
Landing next to Albus, Frye gestured back towards the meeting point and took off. Albus followed suit, the howling of rudely awakened creatures going off behind them.
Back at the meeting point, Irina was working on the grav platform, humming to herself while Elma and Eleonora stood aside. Elma was very close to her while Eleonora was quite a few feet away looking at all their surroundings.
"Colonel...is there a problem?"
Elma turned slightly towards Irina, the woman had kept her voice low. Of course Irina noticed the tone in Elma's voice when talking with Eleonora.
"I didn't think you disliked the Secretary."
"It's...it's not something as simple as that unfortunately…"
Irina raised an eyebrow.
"Pod Bay Epsilon...what division was closest to that bay, Irina?"
The Lieutenant shook her head.
"I'm afraid I don't know, Colonel. I'm only familiar with the primary Skell Hangar Alpha and the Reserve Hangar Phi."
Irina chuckled.
"Makes it sound like I didn't read through any of the assorted paperwork regarding the White Whale."
"The documents were massive, I don't blame you. Most people save for those in power only studied what was specifically tied to them…"
Irina looked from Elma to Eleonora. She wasn't sure why Elma seemed concerned but she'd keep her eyes open. Just in case.
It wasn't long after that when Frye and Albus appeared, both men seemed out of breath.
Irina put the finishing touches on the grav platform and stood.
"You alright? What-"
"Nothing important, let's go!"
Without pausing, the men approached the rover. Elma and Irina glanced at each other, confused.
"Seems they found Doctor Bradbury."
Eleonora commented as she drew near, watching the men load the doctor onto the newly assembled platform. Deciding whatever happened to the men wasn't that big an issue, Irina returned to the vehicle.
"Bradbury is a good find. With how swamped the MMC has been and will continue to be with the more people we find, we could use him."
Getting into the driver's seat, Irina waited for Elma and Eleonora. All loaded up, the vehicle took off across the projected area.
Frye looked to the rather out of it Doctor, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"Real sorry about the rude awakening doc."
"Is fine…"
The man managed to slur, shaking his head in a failed attempt to clear his mind.
"You ever wonder why the Colonel or anyone really gives everyone a few moments to themselves? That's why!"
Irina stated, Albus nodding immediately.
"I told him to be careful quite often but he said and I quote: fuck it."
Elma smiled as Frye burst out laughing.
"Hey! He caught me red handed, I did say that!"
Even Irina's irritated expression gave way to a smile as Frye continued to laugh. The mood was light. Elma turned slowly to check on Eleonora. The woman was not looking her way, she wasn't even staring at the strange alien world all around them. She seemed to be staring at nothing. Lost in thought.
Static interrupted Elma, bringing all the BLADEs attention to the car radio as a familiar voice barely managed to get through.
"Gwin?"
The car slowed to a stop as Gwin repeated his message.
"Coordinates?"
Albus asked to which Elma nodded.
"...and directions…"
"Then let's go!"
Frye yelled before turning to those on the platform behind them.
"No objections, Eleonora?"
The woman said nothing, simply shook her head.
"How bout your Brad? Think you can hold on for a bit more?"
The doctor took a deep calming breath.
"I'll do my best."
"Alright then! Let's go!"
"You do know I'm the one driving, right?"
Frye put a hand on Irina's shoulder.
"Yeah, yeah. We'll see how long that lasts."
Irina shot a glare, causing Frye to move away.
"Just joking."
Changing course, the rover took off across the plains of Primordia.
It didn't take long to find Gwin's group, the man breathed a heavy sigh of relief as the rover came to a stop and the BLADEs stepped out.
"I'm glad to see ya, Colonel."
"What's wrong, Gwin?"
Turning, the man gestured to his team as well as a pair of new faces, recently awoken.
"We may have had a few...issues...with our grav platform."
Someone laughed. It was Bills.
"Yeah. A few!"
Irina sighed.
"Let me guess, you want us to take the new people you found?"
"N-no! No. We can make do without it...but we spotted another Lifepod on our way back to NLA. Figured it'd be best to ring someone else."
Elma nodded as Albus spoke up.
"Are either of the people you found members of Frontier?"
Gwin shook his head.
"No. One was a Coalition officer helping the various scientists in the Quarter evacuate and the other is from Orwell's engineering team."
Frye sighed.
"Lucky us."
"Where is the Lifepod?"
Following Elma's question, Gwin gestured for her to follow. The pair moved farther away from the vehicles towards the edge of the land they stood on which gave way to a sheer drop.
Gwin pointed down into the pit towards a lone Lifepod surrounded by several creatures. Irina, Albus and Frye moved next to Elma, Irina sighing.
"It's never easy. Is it?"
"Hey! Tell her about the thing!"
Gwin looked back at Bills.
"We aren't gonna go sounding any false alarms, Bills."
"But what if it isn't false?"
"What is it?"
Shaking his head, Gwin looked back at Elma.
"It's nothing but...while we were recovering the second Lifepod, Bills was on watch and he said that something was watching us."
"Someone. Some. One. It was definitely...humanish."
Elma raised an eyebrow.
"What did you see, exactly?"
Bills moved closer to the group.
"I can't really describe it...it's like...seeing something out of the corner of your eye. It ran off when I saw it. It definitely had legs. Arms. Possibly a weapon. I tried to follow but I couldn't find it...I did see something fly away. Something big."
Gwin shrugged.
"Doesn't prove much. We've seen giant flying things all over the place."
"I know but...it's strange...right, Colonel?"
Elma fell silent, thinking. Could someone else be here? Someone not affiliated with any of them? A potential ally? Or an enemy?
"Where exactly did this happen, Bills?"
Approaching Elma, Bills gestured north.
"Not far in that direction. You should see the Lifepod we opened for the engineer a few minutes walk out. I coulda sworn I saw something to the...east. Yeah. East. I think it ran north."
Elma nodded, countless scenarios running through her mind.
"Thank you, Bills. We'll keep an eye out."
The man nodded before returning to his group.
"Stay safe out there, Gwin."
With a hearty thumbs up, he smiled.
"I will. All of you do the same! See y'all back in NLA."
With that, Gwin and his people got back into their rover and took off. Irina cast a quick glance down to the Lifepod.
"We're definitely going to have to fight those things."
Frye turned to Albus who pulled out a very odd looking weapon.
"Huh. So you aren't just a pilot?"
"I am a veteran warrior of Qlu."
Bringing the pole looking weapon up, he moved one of the mechanisms, eliciting a click.
"I've fought on the ground most of my life."
Frye smirked.
"Good. Then let's go get us another pod!"
Irina, Frye and Albus began the long descent only for Elma to stand in place, her gaze moving towards where Bills had gestured.
"Elma?"
Looking to Irina, the Colonel cleared her throat.
"I trust you three to handle this."
Irina nodded.
"Stay safe, Elma."
"Of course."
Once the three were out of earshot, Elma turned back to Eleonora and Bradbury, the Secretary spoke.
"We'll be fine, Colonel."
She kept her eyes on them for a moment longer before returning her attention to the path before her. She wasn't sure why but she had this...strange feeling. Perhaps it was a small worry. Aside from the devastating loss as a result of Starfall and the battles with the indiginous life on the planet, things have been...peaceful. She had hoped it would remain that way until they were completely back on their feet but she wasn't sure.
Nodding to herself she began moving towards the location Bills had pointed out, she didn't know what to expect, if anything. But she'd be ready.
Casting one last look down to the pit, she spotted Frye, Irina and Albus on the far side of the cliff, working their way down. Frye was pointing ahead, possibly planning their attack but by the looks of Irina's face, the idea could use some work. Albus meanwhile seemed...entertained.
With a small smile and some relief, Elma took off.
She didn't have to run far on her own to find the signs of Gwin's party, namely the treadmarks along the ground from their rover. Her gaze eventually landed upon an open Lifepod, just as Bills had mentioned. Nodding to herself, she began examining her surroundings. She spotted a few lone trees far off to the east next to several rock pillars. To the west was a large rocky cliff and farther north was a massive mountain. Her gaze moved back to the lonely trees. Heading in that direction she began examining the trees as closely as she could.
It didn't take long before she noticed some damage to one of them. It wasn't much, some broken branches and wear as if someone was using this for cover. Bills claimed something was in this direction.
Elma put a hand on her chin, it could be one of those four legged beasts they fought. Maybe it walked past and its tail hit the tree. Then again if it was this close, Gwin's team definitely would have seen it and it would have attacked them. Unless this was the edge of its territory and it was simply keeping watch. Hard to say with nothing to go on.
Examining several more broken branches, Elma began heading north based on Bills' recollection.
As she walked the rocky plains, she cast a look out over the horizon. It really was a beautiful planet, something that she hoped to be able to appreciate one day.
Elma was pulled from her thoughts by what sounded like a weapon discharging.
A survivor? An enemy? Uncertain, Elma drew her guns and ran in the direction of the sound as fast as she could. Rounding the massive mountain, she held her guns forward, prepared to fire. She could swear she saw something run past the mountainside and disappear over several large rocks.
As she began her pursuit, she turned and saw it. A Lifepod. It was leaning against a large boulder, hidden from sight of Gwin's passing group.
Her gaze moved once more to where the figure vanished. Was it just her imagination? Looking to the Lifepod once more, she noticed something off. Stepping closer she examined the side of the device to see what looked like damage.
It would be expected that some of the Lifepods suffered some sort of damage after Starfall. It simply depended on where the Lifepod landed but something about this didn't seem right.
Running her hand along the damaged side of the device she reached a conclusion. The weapon discharge, someone was trying to force open or break the Lifepod. But why? Who?
It wasn't a conclusion she wanted to reach and there was hardly any evidence of foul play beyond strange happenings but she refused to be anything other than cautious.
Turning once more and looking up at the sky, she barely managed to make out something in the distance. It wasn't a bird or any similar sort of creature, the way it moved and the shape of it seemed...artificial. Any other observations she could make were lost as it vanished into the clouds.
That was a mystery that would have to wait, at least until the mission of recovering the fallen pieces of the White Whale was farther along than it is now.
Returning her attention to the Lifepod, Elma entered the relevant information and stepped back.
As expected, the Lifepod had a harder time opening up due to the damage sustained. Stepping closer, Elma took a hold of one side of the main door and began to force it open. Catching a glimpse of who was inside, a shocked gasp escaped her and she stumbled back.
Soon enough, the Lifepod opened and the person began to rouse from their slumber.
Opening their mismatched eyes, there was very visible confusion. Stepping out of the Lifepod, they examined their surroundings before focusing on Elma.
They seemed thoroughly surprised at seeing her, there was a very faint light in their eyes as they spoke.
"Colonel."
Heart hammering in her chest, Elma couldn't fight off her smile as she approached the person and embraced them.
"Kriss."
The Professor was surprised by Elma's display of affection. They were friends of course but this was not the reaction she expected. Which only meant one thing. One thing that Kriss wasn't surprised by all things considered. Starfall was costly and far more than she could truly imagine at the moment.
While it wasn't in her nature, Kriss made quick note of the fact that there was no one around and so she allowed herself to embrace Elma before asking.
"Was it that bad?"
Elma shook her head.
"Later...I just…"
"Of course, Colonel."
The women stood there for several more moments before Elma pulled herself away, Kriss clearing her throat and putting her hands in her pockets.
"Sorry, Kriss...things…"
"Have been hard, I imagine."
Elma could only nod. She watched as Kriss walked out into the open fields, looking all around and analyzing everything that came into her view.
"Fascinating…"
Kriss chuckled before looking back at Elma.
"I'll try not to break too much."
With a wink, Kriss earned a small laugh from Elma. Looking back out across the plains, Kriss nodded before returning to Elma's side. Observing her own Lifepod, Kriss raised an eyebrow.
"Desperate?"
"What?"
Kriss gestured towards the damage.
"It's electrical discharge...probably from a sort of rifle that uses that form of ammunition. Then again, your guns use standard munitions, correct?"
Elma nodded.
"I'm not too familiar with who uses charge ammunition over flammable or frost or…"
Kriss brought a hand to her chin.
"Was it not one of us?"
"Kriss. Let's save this until we get back to NLA. You have to get checked out."
The Professor kept her eyes on the damage before turning to Elma. The Colonel took this chance to give Kriss a once over, the edges of her usually pristine lab coat were frayed and grayed no doubt by the countless fires that sprouted from the damage the White Whale sustained.
Stepping closer, Elma placed a hand on Kriss' abdomen drawing a pained grunt.
"May I?"
Kriss sighed and allowed Elma to undo the buttons on her shirt, pulling the lower part away from her skin she found a rather deep gash.
"Let's get you back."
"Right."
Elma began moving, Kriss following shortly after.
"...I really am happy to have you back, Kriss."
"I can tell...how long has it been?"
"Fifteen days."
Kriss crossed her arms.
"I see...what's NLA?"
"But did you see me? I took out three of those assholes at the same time!"
"I would say you took them out consecutively."
Frye turned to Albus.
"Consecutively? I killed three of them like that!"
Frye made several gestures to mimic his sword movements to which Albus nodded.
"Yes but 'at the same time' implies that you felled them all with a single strike in one moment, instead you took each out with one strike, one at a time for three strikes in all. Thus, consecutively."
Frye crossed his arms as Albus chuckled.
"I mean no insult, it is an impressive feat."
"No by all means, continue, Albus. Frye could use some help with his grammar."
Irina commented, drawing a heavy sigh from Frye and a smile from Albus.
"It doesn't matter how much time passes or what nonsense you get yourself into, you never do change, do you, Frye?"
The man turned to their new addition.
"Come on Kirsty, you knew my dad right? He's been that way his whole life, why should I change?"
Kirsty looked up at the sky, brows furrowed before retrieving her sunglasses from her pocket and putting them on.
"You highlight exactly why I think you should change. Your stubbornness might just get you killed."
"Stubborn, pah. I prefer willpower. I can muscle through anything."
Kirsty sighed.
"Given you are still around, I suppose I can't argue with that."
"Nah, you can't! Anyway Kirsty, we've got a lot to talk to you about back in NLA so you better get ready for a long debriefing."
"Wonderful. So excited."
The group returned to the vehicle where Bradbury was now pacing, up and alert while Eleonora sat in silence.
"Hey all! Look who we found!"
Eleonora turned, light flashing in her eyes.
"Kirsty. I suppose that's the mission accomplished?"
Irina nodded.
"Big time. Granted our list of 'must finds' is still pretty lengthy. Crossing you and Kirsty from it will help. A lot."
Eleonora smiled.
"That's good to know."
Kirsty examined their surroundings, raising an eyebrow.
"Where is the Colonel?"
"Ah, right. She went off to check something out. Should be back soon."
Frye made a move to get in the driver's seat only for Irina to put a hand on his shoulder and shake her head. With a sigh he moved to the back, Albus filing in after him and Kirsty getting into the levitating platform with Eleonora.
"Feeling better, doc?"
Bradbury looked at Irina and nodded.
"Yes. Much better. I don't think I got to express my proper thanks. Frye. Albus."
The Qlurian nodded to which Irina shook her head.
"I wouldn't thank Frye all that much, he's the reason you were so out of it."
"Better than being dead!"
Frye yelled to which the doctor chuckled.
"I can't argue with that."
Irina turned from the group just in time to catch Elma coming into view with a new find of her own. Irina couldn't fight off the smile on her face.
"Would you look at that?"
Frye followed Irina's gaze, a smirk forming on his face.
"Make that three names."
Behind them Eleonora spotted the women.
"Professor Kriss Fowler…"
Elma and Kriss reached the group, the Colonel letting out a long breath.
"Hope you all weren't waiting too long."
Irina shook her head.
"Not at all...hey, Kriss."
"Lieutenant."
Her eyes then moved to Frye.
"You? Really?"
The man rolled his eyes as Irina, Albus and Bradbury began laughing.
"Colonel Elma!"
Her attention now moved to the woman in a dark suit.
"Kirsty?"
"Yep. These fine ladies and gentlemen just woke me up. I've been told that there is...a lot...to discuss."
Elma nodded.
"Yeah. A lot. That can all wait till we get back."
Elma gestured to the grav platform, Kriss moving to get in with the rest of the people recovered, her eyes falling on Eleonora.
"Reeve."
"Fowler."
The women held each other's gaze for a few more moments before looking away. Kirsty reached over and tapped Kriss' leg to get her attention.
"You will be a massive help to what it is I need to get done."
"Who says I'll help?"
"Why wouldn't you? We need every hand on deck, c'mon it'll be fun. Relatively speaking."
Kriss simply shrugged, eyes scanning the horizon as the rover began making it way back to NLA. As lighthearted conversation began to fill the air, Kriss closed her eyes and felt that worry building in her chest.
New Los Angeles - East Gate
August 12th, 2056
Reaching NLA, Doctor Bradbury, Eleonora, Kirsty and Kriss were sent off to the MMC first to get fully checked out. Elma stood in the central plaza with Frye, Irina and Albus, thanking them for their assistance once more.
"How many times have we done this? Call on me whenever, or heck, I'll find you."
Frye chuckled before taking off.
"Repenta?"
Irina asked, to which he simply burst out laughing. Looking back at Elma, Irina bowed her head.
"Always a pleasure, Colonel."
"It is...and thank you, Irina. For the talk."
Irina shook her head.
"It was...it was my best shot, I can't say I'm any good at assisting in loss and the associated emotions but...I had to try. Can't leave it all to Frye, can I?"
The women shared words of parting before Irina left as well. Turning to Albus, Elma thanked him as well.
"Nothing to be grateful for, I enjoyed the trip. It was a good change of pace."
"You and Furvus are my brother's trusted friends and comrades in arms...I hope to be able to sustain that relationship, as best as I can."
Albus smiled.
"No concern there. From the moment I met you I could tell you were someone as honorable as Aeon. I am happy to lend my aid, as is Furvus."
"There is the matter of the rest of your people, the ones who went with Javier and Caerulus."
Albus nodded.
"This is true, but until we are steady and strong, we can wait. Caerulus is headstrong, Javier is brave and the Neilnail pilot with them, Flavus. She is every bit as capable as Furvus and myself. Wherever they may be, I'm confident they are doing well."
Elma thanked him once more, watching as the Qlurian turned to leave. However, he soon came to a stop and faced her once more.
"From what I understand...there is someone out there that you care about, yes?"
Elma could only nod.
"It may not be much but I will hold onto that same faith alongside you. However long it takes."
Bowing her head, Elma said nothing else as Albus turned and left.
Less than an hour later, Elma was back in the Administrative Plaza having completed her report to Nagi, Chausson and Vandham. The three were relieved to have Eleonora back in the fold for all their upcoming work on establishing a new government. Aside from that, the recovery of Kirsty and Kriss was met with just as much hope. Now that Kirsty was here, the new network was to be the highest priority for the Outfitters and assorted engineers in NLA.
Progress on what has since been dubbed by the Outfitters as the 2nd Generation Skells has been progressing smoothly and with more technical staffers returning to NLA with every trip it allowed them to spare some manpower for the establishment of Frontier's work.
The meetings with Eleonora and Kirsty would no doubt be long and Elma was sure that her attendance would be requested, but until then she could wander and think as she often did.
There were plenty of people eager to listen and help, she thanked them all endlessly for it. However there was something that needed to be done and after Starfall she was the only one who could do it.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar figure leaving NLA through the same gate they had entered not long ago. She was being forced to confront that one obstacle and as much as she wanted time to approach it, she knew there was none.
Outside of NLA on the edge of Primordia, Elma saw the other woman standing on a hill, watching the rolling plains before her. Taking a deep breath, Elma approached.
"Kriss."
The Professor said nothing.
"You really should give them time to fix you up…"
"There are others in the MMC with far greater injuries than I."
Elma nodded.
"Maybe so...but-"
"You need me? All of you. You need my mind. My intelligence. My help."
"We do...but more than that...I want my friend to stick around for as long as she can. I've lost too much to lose you too."
Elma watched the side of Kriss' face as a small smile tugged on the corner of her lips. It remained for a few moments before changing into that expression Elma knew was coming.
"Just say it...Elma...I already know...just tell me…"
The silence that followed was anything but calm.
"She would have come for me. She would have been the first face I saw. She would have been at the MMC the moment I came back...yet she was nowhere to be seen…"
Kriss turned to Elma, allowing her to see the sadness and heartbreak evident in Kriss' mismatched eyes.
"Tell me. Please."
Taking a deep breath, Elma spoke.
"Eren...she didn't make it…"
Kriss turned away from Elma, remaining silent even though her eyes spoke volumes. Elma wanted to say more, to tell Kriss of the loss of the rest of the Reapers. Possibly of Jaynix as well but she refused to admit that to herself. Not yet.
And once she saw the first tear escape Kriss' eyes, she knew that there was no sense in saying anything more.
Stepping closer Elma embraced Kriss and allowed her to cry. A sight no one else has seen since and no one else will ever see.