Hot Spring
The two of them lied side by side, post coitus as Xalah pressed her hands against his chest, the two of them smiling as they both went in for another kiss, their scaly lips meeting before they both separated. Robert had turned on his iPod as the song Earth Angel by The Penguins played in the background.
"... That was amazing..." Xalah hissed before she hugged him closer, pressing her breasts against his arm. "You were amazing..."'
"I could say the same for you." Robert rasped as he smiled, nuzzling her before he spotted a fang marks on her shoulder. His expression softened as he felt bad for a second, ruining her perfect form with such a thing.
Xalah looked to see where he was staring before she smiled back at him.
"I would not worry about that..." She whispered in his ear, "It means I am yours."
"As I am to you." Robert rasped, "We should get going Xalah, the radio tower is pretty close now. Once we get there, I can access the resistance frequency."
"Sure..." She responded before hugging him closer and closing her eyes, "But... Can we just... Stay like this for a bit? Being in your arms makes me feel complete."
"... That can be arranged." Robert hissed as he smiled, hugging her closer. She felt so warm to him, almost as if there was a heater resonating from within her. Xalah hissed happily before she realized something.
"Robert... What will happen when your group comes to pick you up?" Xalah asked.
"They'll put me back on missions again, we're at war after al-" He looked down to see her staring up at him, her sad features told him what was on her mind.
"Xalah..." Robert hissed, "I would do anything in my power, Hell, I'll refuse to leave without you if they don't bring you along for the ride."
"It's not that I'm worried about..." Xalah rasped as she hugged him tighter, "When I fought for ADVENT, they would have us line up to see which one of my sisters were alive by the end of the day and which one's were... Terminated." She paused. "If you continue to fight, then one day... You might not come back."
He didn't know what to say as he looked down at her red eyes, his only answer being to hug her close as she responded to his touch. Her scales shivering softly.
"Don't worry about me, I'll make it..." Robert rasped as he smiled warmly, "After all, we both made it thissss far... My Earth Angel..."
God that last sentence sounded cheesy. Even to his standards as he quoted the lines from the song. Either way, his words did it's job as she slowly smiled before she leaned forward, kissing him on his scaly lips as the two of them closed there eyes. They separated as they both smirked at each other.
The two of them slithered up, picking up their armor. The both of them now dry as Robert slipped on his gear, he turned his head to watch her put on her chest piece, her cleavage being crammed inside the small space. She turned to meet his eyes as she hissed a chuckle, "Earth Angel? Really now?"
Robert scratched the back of his hood, "Er... Yeah, not my best effort."
She smiled, "I think it was romantic. Incorporating myself with the lyrics of that Human song."
The black Viper paused as he scratched the back of his hood. "Y-You think so?"
She simply looked at him alluringly, putting her beam rifle on his back, "I know so.". She picked up his hunting rifle as she tossed it to him, the black Viper catching it, Xalah tilted her head to him. "Let us go."
Robert nodded as the two of them left the hot spring, not looking back once.
Radio Tower
The two of them had finally reached the place, the sun now beginning to set. The place looked long abandoned as the gates were rusted, but a mobile power source lied next to the small open building, a sign that the resistance had used the place at some point.
Robert opened the gate as he slithered into the courtyard, Xalah following closely behind him as she looked around.
"How long has this been place been neglected?"
"Probably not for too long,-" Robert rasped as he pointed at the advanced power generator, "Sssomeone left that behind, probably a few years ago? "
Robert slithered up to the generator, opening a small box on the side of it. "This will take me a bit, see if you can find a way into the building. There should be some radio equipment." She nodded as she went to the side. Robert turned his head to the generator as he tried to find the button to power it on. He slowly pressed a small one on the side before it came to life, sputtering as the radio tower lit up.
He smiled to himself before he heard Xalah from inside the building. "Robert, I found a door in the back."
Robert nodded as he slithered to the back entrance, reaching inside as he saw an array of radio equipment. He reached up, picking a transmitter off as he smiled, his fangs showing. "Yeah, this'll do."
He then began to tinker with it, Xalah watching over his shoulder in curiosity. "I ssstill can't believe you know how to use such a primitive device..."
Robert looked back at her, smiling, "Nothing is primitive so long as it still has use." He dialed the nob a bit more before he crackled to life, "Ah, there we go." He then began to switch the channel. "Now... If I remember correctly, central command would use a hidden frequency on one of these old channels. I just gotta find the right-"
There was a pause before a very distorted voice sounded on the other end.
"H-old on- Picking up-... - is this?"
Robert immediately recognized the voice, it was Bradford.
"Bradford! Do you copy!? It's me! Robert Carter!"
"...-bert? J-..sus chris-t. Yo-'re ali-ve! We...'re tracking you-r location now! T-ry to mark your location with a Fla-...re! We'-ll send-... Team af-ter you."
Robert wanted to laugh out in pure happiness, "Roger that Command!" He turned his head to Xalah as he gestured for her to follow, "C'mon!"
The two of them went outside as Robert uncorked a flare and released it in the courtyard, the flare opening up into a blue square as it lit up the night. Robert finally laughed out as he slumped down to his coils.
He made it, after two days of being in ADVENT territory.
However his mind wandered as he remembered he had forgotten someone, he felt a hand on his shoulder as Xalah slithered next to him. "Ssso... What happens now?" She smiled, looking at him.
"Now we wait." Robert rasped, "X-com will come to pick us up, I'll tell them that you sssaved my life, I'm sure the Commander will understand."
"And what of our... Courting?" Xalah hissed alluringly, Roberts heart pounded for a second as he remembered what had transpired in the afternoon.
"Uh... I-I don't think they need to know that Xalah." Until he drifted his head closer, "But even then, we'll always know."
She chuckled a cute hiss as she hugged him close again, pressing her head in his shoulder as Robert closed his eyes and smiled. Xalah opened her eyes before something caught her eye.
A red transparent triangle was seen in the woods, almost like the holographic sight of a-
Her eyes widened as she saw it aimed at her mate.
"Look out!" She yelled out before pushing him, the black Viper momentarily stunned as his upper body fell to the side. A loud shot from some form of energy weapon was heard.
Robert was momentarily dazed as he reached for his rifle, grabbing the weapon as he aimed it at the woods.
"Where did you see it come fr-!?" He turned his head to notice that she didn't respond, "X-Xalah?"
She was lying down, her hand on the side of her abdomen as she wheezed out, struggling to breath as she held a gaping wound, her greenish blood now dripping to the ground.
"XALAH!" The black Viper yelled out as he slithered to her side, his eyes wide with fear and anguish as he held her. A thin trace of blood began to drip from the side of her fangs as she looked up at him. "Y-You'll be okay! Just stay with me!"
"Robert..." She slowly spoke before she attempted to smile, "You are safe..."
"Aww, how sweet." A cruel voice said, Robert gritted his fangs as he looked up. The shooter now walking from the underbrush casually, the ADVENT alien sporting blue skin and a set of advanced tactical armor, a cowl covered his glowing purple eyes as he sneered down at the two of them. "They told me all about you... That you were a insurgent Human, exposed to some experimental DNA splicer. But they didn't tell me this."
Robert glared at him as he attempted to reach for his weapon only for the alien to shake his head, "Ah, be careful there. We're both sharpshooters here after all, let's keep this clean shall we? Besides, that primitive weapon would barely leave a mark on me... But it would be so easy if I were to-"
And then more ADVENT came from the woods, Troopers and a few Sectoids came out, alongside a thin man as the dark spectacled humanoid was escorted by two Muton's. "Not so fast Hunter, we need to keep the male alive."
Hunter growled before lowering his rifle. Obviously angered for being denied a kill.
The Thin Man adjusted his tie as he looked down at the two of them before sighing, "You disappointed me 24473C. I thought you would be able to redeem yourself."
"She has a name..." Robert hissed, his tone dangerous as his fangs were out. If looks could kill, then the entirety of the ADVENT strike force would be dead as his blue eyes were tinged with an unnatural fury.
"Really now? Now that right there is a big dilemma that I have to deal with." The Thin Man said as he continued, "Give a Muton a designation and he'll accept, give a Trooper a designation and he'll be thankful." The Thin Man knelt down, taking off his glasses as his unnatural reptilian eyes glared down. "However try to do it to a Viper, and all of the sudden they start coming up with creative ways to bypass the process that makes our lives so efficient under the Elders... It's sickening and disruptive."
Robert didn't respond as he clung her closer, "Efficient my ass. You took everything from her race, their right, their freedom, even their fucking thoughts. The way you talk about efficiency makes it sound like selling your soul." Robert slowly looked up, "But clearly you already have."
The Thin Man frowned as he stood back up. "Kill the female. Bring the male, we'll figure out how he was able to survive the process."
"With pleasure..." Hunter said as he raised his darklance.
They all took out there weapons, the two Mutons walked forward as Robert hissed, just like a Viper as he reached for his weapon to defend the one he loved.
And then a noise was heard.
All of the ADVENT looked up to see a Skyranger appear over the ridge, the ramp facing the small force as it opened up. A familiar SPARK stood at the opening, bringing it's helix rail-cannon to bare.
"Hello! Useless alien meat bags!" Julian yelled.
The Thin Man turned around, his reptilian eyes widening as he stood there before speaking, "Oh for Elders sa-"
And then the humanoid was torn apart as Julian began to fire upon the ADVENT soldiers, the Rail Cannon blaring as rappels came out the transport, allowing the three operatives inside to get down to the ground.
Robert took the distraction as an escape, hoisting Xalah over his shoulder as she grunted in discomfort. Her blood now leaking on his shoulder as he slithered into cover. The Hunter raised his darklance and fired, just barely missing the Viper as the sadistic Chosen gritted his teeth. Robert held her closely as he looked around for a secured opening to hide in, while he could have picked up his rifle and fought on, right now his biggest concern was Xalah's safety, she looked barely alive anymore as her breathing felt heavy and labored.
"Xalah, please hold on..." Robert rasped worryingly as he looked at the fighting operatives as a gunfight broke out.
His eyes adjusted before they widened, one of them wearing a very familiar texas hat.
"Madison!" Robert yelled out.
The specialist turned his head, before he made a mad dash, avoiding enemy fire. Madison then crouched next to Robert as the Viper lowered Xalah on the ground. "Robert! Thank god your okay partner!" The Texan said as he ducked from an oncoming mag round. "What the hell happened these past two days? Who is this?"
"T-Theres no time to explain, can you-"
"I already did partner." Madison said as Robert turned his head to see the GREMLIN performing a medical protocal on the Vipers wound, her eyes now closed as she sighed out. However that would only provide temporary relief, she still needed proper help. "C'mon! Get your ass to the transport! I'll cover you!"
Robert nodded as he hoisted Xalah over his shoulder, slithering forward as Madison fired on the move. The black Viper finally arrived at the flare square before he reached out for the rappel, the line pulling him it as it took him upwards.
He got on the ramp as Madison followed behind him. Still firing downwards as the two operatives covering there escape rappelled after them, and then without further ado, the ramp closed.
They had made a clean get away.
The Hunter snarled as he lowered his darklance, turning his head to the strike force.
"Ugh, you useless sacks of flesh! Get back to the base, I'll have the superiors sort you all out." The Hunter said in spite as the task force began to walk off, the blue alien turned his head to the sky. "And don't think this shall be the last you will see of me... Robert Carter."
Skyranger
Robert gently placed Xalah down into a soft stabilizer, her eye lids flickering as her breathing was still pained. He sighed as he turned around to see Madison and Eliza walk up to him, alongside a... Unfamiliar operative, the soldier wearing padded armor and cloth, yet he was using some form of bullpup weapon.
"It's good to see you two..." Robert rasped, "I-I would talk more but..." He turned his head back to Xalah.
Eliza smiled before curiosity placed itself on her face, "Who is she?"
"She saved my life from the Berzerker." Robert answered, "If it weren't for her, I'd be a dead snake corpse next to that train."
"Well hot damn." Madison said, "Why'd she do that? Isn't she ADVENT?" Madison asked.
"Used to be... Not anymore."
"I can relate." The mysterious operative spoke behind his mask. Robert turned his head before he tilted his serpentine head.
"Um, I don't think I've ever seen you before."
Madison's eyes lit up as he looked at the soldier, "Oh great! Check this out Robert! You wouldn't believe what the hell went down the past two days... Mox, take off the helmet."
The strange soldier complied, as Robert's eyes widened in surprise. Mox looked Human, yet there were additions to his physique and face that indicated he no longer was as his Orange eyes looked at Robert, it took the Viper a second to realize that Mox... Was an ADVENT Trooper.
"No way... You're a-"
"An ADVENT foot soldier? Yes... Yes I was." Mox said as put his rifle to the side. Robert tilted his head.
"But how? I thought all Troopers are put under some brainwashing device."
"Yeah but not these fellah's, Commands calling them Skirmishers. And Mox is a damn beast on the field."
Mox nodded as he turned his head to Robert, "When I heard that there was a human turned Viper on the X-com team, you could imagine my intrigue." He then put out his hand, "Pratal Mox, at your service."
Robert took it slowly, "Robert... Robert Carter."
He turned his hood back to Xarah as he leaned next to her. Julian walked up as his MEC stomped on the ground, "Ha! You should have seen the faces of those damn dirty Xenos scu-"
The MEC looked at the kneeling Viper. "What's wrong? Did his significant other die?"
"Oh Jesus, fuck off Julian!" Madison said in anger, "Why don't ya go to sleep in the corner before I shut ya down!"
"As a matter of fact I will, goodnight meat bags." The MEC said before his frame slumped over and went into sleep mode. Madison and Eliza sighed as Mox merely crossed his arms.
"That MEC doesn't have a very suitable attitude." Mox noted.
"That's Julian for you..." Eliza responded before she knelt down next to Robert, the Viper barely noticing her as he stared down at his mate. "Robert... Listen, she'll be fine. I know you hold her to high regard, but right now the best thing to do is for you to not worry."
Robert paused as he looked at Xalah before he sighed, "Right... I'll get seated."
Madison walked up to his friend, "Hey Robert. I just wanted to let you know that were here for you Partner, it must've been a nightmare the past 2 days."
"Well, too be honest it wasn't really bad at all." Robert admitted as he slowly slithered to his seat, "For starters, me and Xalah-"
"Xalah? That's her name?" Madison asked, the black Viper nodded as he continued
"We tried to reach a settlement that was a days hike but it was already destroyed, so we traveled to one of the radio towers." Robert gestured to the rifle next to him, "Also did a bit of hunting..."
"Well hot damn, must've been like a vacation." Madison said as he grinned. Robert smiled at his friends optimistic attitude before it dissipated as soon as he realized something.
"Madison... Where's Dimitri and Amir?"
The Texan paused before he spoke, "Dimitri is still recovering from his arm, he should be combat ready by tomorrow... And Amir..." He paused again before Eliza spoke.
"Amir is still in the hospital bed, he overexerted his abilities. The doctors thought he would be in a Coma until he awoke yesterday." Eliza sighed, "They said it was a miracle he didn't suffer brain damage."
Robert immediately looked down before he rasped, "I'm sorry..."
Madison turned his head before he grinned, "What are you saying sorry for? Ya pretty much covered our asses when we were being suppressed. It was just shit luck that they had a god forsaken Berzerker hiding in one of the containers."
"Yeah, but If I was there sooner... Then none of this would have happened."
"Hey,-" Eliza said as she placed a shoulder on him, "Don't beat yourself up over it. Not everything goes the way you want it to. Besides, all that matters is that were back together again."
Robert nodded before he felt Madisons hand wrap around both him and Eliza. "Group hug! Get your ass over here Mox!"
The former Trooper looked surprise as he stood on the other side of the transport, "... I am not worth-"
"Bullshit! You helped us out. And also,-" Madison leaned down to whisper in Roberts ear, "He's apart of our barracks now." Before the Texan lifted his head back up, "Well? Are ya gonna come over?"
Mox paused before he stood up, "Very well then."
They all got into a hug as Madison held them all together before separating. "Alright, hugs over. Glad to have ya back Robert."
"Thanks." Robert rasped as he smiled lightly. They all went back to there seats as Robert sat closest to the one that Xalah was next to, keeping a watchful eye on her as his snake like body coiled. He had never felt so awful in his entire life as he looked at her unconscious form, she had taken a blast meant for him while he let his guard down.
He sighed as he closed his eyes, awaiting for them to arrive back at the Avenger.
Avenger
As soon as they landed, Xalah was ordered to the medical bay as per Eliza's orders. Robert slithered off the ramp alongside Madison and Mox, with Bradford coming to them.
"Good job team for escorting the VIP, and it's good to have you back Robert... But why did you bring a wounded ADVENT to the medic bay?" The Central Officer asked as he looked at the medics carry away a stretcher holding Xalah.
Robert looked up, "...She saved my life Bradford. That Berzerker would have killed me if it weren't for her."
Bradford paused before he nodded, "I understand. Do you know any reason as to why?"
The black Viper paused as he thought of an answer, "Yes... I'm the last male of her race. So she defected to protect me."
"Really now?" Bradford said, "That's... A startling piece of info..."
"What do ya mean sir?" Madison asked.
"I mean that if Roberts presence alone made a Viper defect, then who knows how loyal the Vipers of the ADVENT actually are. Perhaps there loyalty only extends to the fact that their reproduction is controlled by ADVENT. But with you in the picture..." Bradford looked up, "I need to tell the commander about this... You are all dismissed for now."
Madison, Eliza, and Mox nodded as they went to the elevator. However right as Robert turned his head Bradford spoke.
"And by the way, it is good to have you back operative. I don't want to ask anything more of you, but we might need you in the coming week. Is that alright with you?"
Robert smiled, "Anything for Humanity."
Bradford nodded, "Then it is settled, get some rest Robert. You deserved it."
The Viper nodded as he turned his head, slithering to the elevator as the rest of the squad waited in front of it. The door currently closed as it was reaching there floor. Madison turned his head to Robert, "So, what did Bradford say?"
"He was glad I was back, he asked if I was combat ready for next week."
Madison rolled his eyes, "Gosh, I wonder what your answer was."
"I said yes." Robert rasped as the Texan nodded.
"Exactly as I thought."
The doors opened to reveal a familiar Russian, as the man wore a sling around his arm and shoulder. Robert's eyes widened, "Dimitri! You're here!"
"Damn right I am snake." The Russian said before he came up and crushed the Viper in a bear hug, Eliza and Mox watched by the sidelines as they smiled. "What in the hell happened? Everybody thought you were dead meat, that that damn Suka killed you."
"Nah Dimitri, it'll take more then that to kill Robert... A lot more." Madison said as he grinned, the entire squad stepped on the elevator.
"But in all seriousness, how did you survive?" Dimtri asked as he turned his head to Robert.
"Well... A ADVENT Viper named Xalah defected before that Berserker killed me... She saved my life."
Dimitri whistled, "Sounds fucking insane."
Robert immediately hung his head down, the elevator closing. "But she's in the medical bay..."
"Oh... I see, sorry comrade."
"It's fine Dimitri."
The elevator stopped at the shooting range, Eliza turned her head to the squad. "I'm going to go train my aiming again."
Mox spoke up, "If you would allow me, I would like to come along as well."
"Sure Mox,-" She turned her head back, "You go on ahead soldiers."
"Roger that Ma'am." The Texan said before the elevators closed. Leaving Dimitri, Madison, and Robert behind as the Viper and the two Human's looked at each other.
"Yeah... training my ass." Madison said as he snickered.
Roberts eyes widened, "Wait... Are you saying that she and-"
"Nah, but here's to hoping." Madison said as he uncorked a flash of whiskey in his side pocket, "Lord knows that she needs to lighten up sometimes." The Texan was about to take a sip before the intercom on the elevator sounded, it was Richards voice.
"Robert Carter, please report to the medical bay at once. Thank you."
"Wonder what that's about?" Madison asked as he looked up at the speaker. Robert froze, his blue eyes peering at up as they widened.
"Xalah..."
Medical Bay
The three had gotten off as Robert immediately slithered out, his eyes scanning around for her before he stopped. One of the separate medical rooms opened as Richard came out of it, going through a tablet. A window showed Xalah, lying on a modified medical bed.
Robert immediately slithered up to him, his face stricken with worry as Dimitri and Madison came up beside him. "Will she be okay?"
Richard turned his head, "Yes. She will Robert, I did a scan and the shot just grazed her lung, but she will make a quick recovery, which begs the other question..." The scientist slowly took off his glasses, "Why did the scanner pick up traces of your DNA around her... Genital Area?"
Madison's mouth immediately stood agape, as did Dimitri, the Russian's eyes widening.
The black Viper felt like he wanted to die at this moment, his tongue hissing on it's own as his body language became that of embarrassment. "I-I can expla-"
Dimtri slowly spoke, "I do not believe it. Robert you-"
"Holy shit Robert! You son of a bitch!" Madison said as he put on a shit eating grin, "You tapped her! Didn't you!?"
Robert covered his eyes as he put his head down, now hissing erratically as his embarrassment overflowed. "Alright! Fine then, I admit it! Xalah and I... We-..." Robert paused as he looked up, "We both fell in love."
The statement surprised both Madison and Dimitri, Richard on the other hand merely readjusted his glasses. "Regardless, I'm going to have to tell the Commander about this. You may trust her, but keep in mind that we don't."
"I-... I understand." Robert rasped, "But, could I please see her?"
Richard paused before he sighed, "Very well, you can come in whenever you like. But don't touch any of the equipment."
Robert slowly slithered forward, placing a hand on the doorway before slowly opening it. He saw her, lying on the bed with a hospital gown that covered her upper body as Xalah slowly opened her eyes at his presence before smiling.
He wordlessly came up to her, his eyes full of guilt and regret as he coiled low, now face to face with her. Xalah reached her hand out, her long fingers touching his scaly cheek as he looked away from her.
Robert paused before he rasped, "I don't deserve you."
"Do not say that..." Xalah hissed as she smiled again, "It was my choice."
"But I could have done something to prevent this, I could have-"
She gently dragged his hood back, leaning her serpentine head forward, before planting her lips against his as Roberts eyes widened before closing, steadily embracing her with his arms. They separated as Xalah slowly fell back, her hands reaching for his as she squeezed them gently.
"I will be fine. Do not worry."
Robert nodded as he held onto her hands. "I know."
The two of them looked each other in the eyes before the door opened, the two Vipers turning their heads to see Bradford walk in, with the Commander following behind him.
Bradford crossed his arms before speaking. "Is it true?"
Robert slowly nodded, "Yes... It isss."
Bradford merely sighed. "I don't know what to say Operative. This is an... Unexpected development."
"She saved my life. How could I not?"
There was a long pause before Bradford turned his head, "It's your call Commander. How should we handle this?"
The Commander nodded as he held a stern face, however his eyes seemed filled with intrigue as he took out a tablet. He wordlessly began to type on it before walking up to Xalah, holding the piece of technology out to her.
Xalah paused as she turned her head to Robert. "Um... What does he want?"
"I think he wants you to look at it." Robert replied. Xalah looked up at the Commander before she gingerly took it, her eyes scanning through it before widening.
"I-I know what this is! This is a ADVENT military file, you wan't me to translate it?"
The Commander vigorously nodded, Xalah turned her head back to it. "But I don't understand, do you not have programs already for this?"
Bradford paused, "It's faulty, but we do. What are you getting at Commander?"
"Hold on..." Xalah rasped, "I'm looking at the translation beside it,-" She looked up, "Some of the wording is wrong. This should mean north, not down. And this over here,-" Xalah looked closely, "Thisss is meant to be gorge not river. There storing a cache down a gorge in the north sector. This must be an outdated version."
There was a long pause as Bradford's eyes widened.
"I see now, you want her to be a decipher?"
The Commander nodded, pointing at the tablet and then at her. Bradford paused again before he looked at her, his face serious. "Can we trust you?"
Xalah immediately answered, "Yes. I am done with the ADVENT,-" She looked at Robert before smiling, "-All that matters to me is that I am with my King..."
Bradford crossed his arms as he looked at the Commander, the two of them nodded before the Officer turned his head back to her. "Once you recover we'll have to question you further. But if you're being truthful, then we should have no problem with hiring you."
Robert smiled as he held her close, her hands wrapping around his hood as the two of them rejoiced.
Bradford politely coughed. "Right. Me and the Commander will leave you two alone, we have business to attend to." Bradford said, "C'mon Commander."
The mute nodded before he followed the Officer out the doorway, however not before turning his head and winking. Robert simply blinked as he watched the Commander leave, the room now quiet again.
Robert turned his head to her as he leaned down, nudging his head against hers as the two of them closed their eyes. "Get some rest Xalah...", he turned himself around to slither out, however not before the female Viper gently grabbed his wrist.
"Robert..." He turned his head back to Xalah, only to see her look up at him alluringly. She slowly squirmed as she suggestively rubbed up against him, smiling coyly. "Come back to me... Once I recover."
The black Viper chuckled shyly, "W-Will do..."
He turned to slither a little faster then normal as he felt his heart beat, opening the door as he turned his head one more time to see her still smiling at him. He smiled back before closing it behind him.
"What the hell happened?" Madison asked, "Bradford and the Commander came in and then left, what were ya talkin' about?"
"They wanna hire Xalah to be a decipher." Robert answered.
"Really? That is surprising." Dimtri said. "But you must be happy, now that you two can bang any time! Ha!"
Madison joined in on the laughter, "Yeah! So that's why ya never picked up any other chick, you were just waiting with your new body to do the Black Mamba with another Viper!" The Texan said before the two of them laughed out loud.
Robert hung his head down in embarrassment. "Shut up... Just shut up you two..."
"Well, anyways. Ya must be tired Robert. Let's get some shut eye." Madison said to which Dimitri nodded in agreement. Robert nodded as his serpentine head looked back at the door for one last time before slithering away with his squad mates.
However not before they passed another doorway.
Madison slowly turned his head to the black Viper. "Partner... Before we go, ya wanna check up on Amir?"
Robert wanted to slap himself for forgetting. "Of course! Is he okay?"
"Why don't you go see for yourself?" Dimtri asked as he opened the door. Robert cautiously peered in before someone spoke out.
"Ah, my friend! You are back!" Robert turned his head to see Amir, on the hospital bed as the Iranian got up. A giant bandage around his head as the man walked forward. "They had told me you were dead, yet I never believed so. After all, you seem to elude death."
Robert smiled, "It's good to see you too Amir."
The two embraced before separating, Madison and Dimitri walking up alongside the black Viper. "How's your head partner?"
"I admit, it could be better. However if this is what was determined then this is what I shall receive."
Dimtri crossed his arms, "You are one crazy Suka, Amir."
"As are all of us." Amir said as he smiled, "Now Robert, you must be tired. Do not worry of me. Soon I shall make a clean path to recovery as doctor Richard said himself."
"You're a good man Amir..." Robert rasped.
The Iranian paused as he nodded before speaking. "So my friend, you must tell me what transpired for you... It must be an interesting story."
"Oo! Oo!" Madison whooped like a child before running up alongside Amir before Robert could stop him. The Texan whispered into the Iranian's ears as Amir's eyes widened.
"An ADVENT Viper saved Robert's life?" Amir asked, Madison nodded before whispering again. Amir's jaw dropped, looking at the black Viper. Robert immediately groaned, the truth was out. "T-This is definitely a surprise... And she is in the other room?"
Robert slowly nodded, "I know... It's a lot to take in."
Amir shook his head, "By all means my friend, I am fine with it. If she is someone you have grown to love then I shall not object in the slightest... Though you must tell me how that happened."
The black Viper nodded, "Maybe another time. I think I need some sleep."
"Ah, understandable. Go get yourself some rest my friend, I shall be here if you need me." The Iranian went back to his bed before lying down.
"Right... Goodnight Amir." Robert rasped, the Iranian gave a thumbs up.
Medical Room
Xalah sighed out, her body squirming again as she attempted to get comfy. It was no sleeping pod, but the bed would do she supposed, after all Robert probably slept on a bed due to his once Human nature.
Her thoughts drifted as she remembered her sisters. Perhaps the ADVENT had declared her terminated, she felt a tiny bit of guilt arise. Mirna was probably heart broken of her disappearance, after all the two of them were the last of their clutch. Xalah closed her eyes as she sighed again, she couldn't think about that now, as selfish as it sounded. Maybe one day she could find a way to free her sisters as well.
The Viper looked at her shoulder and smiled, Robert's mark still there. Despite the danger she had faced today...
It had been worth it just to be with him.
"Excuse me."
Xalah opened her eyes to see a Human at her doorway, a giant bandage wrapped around his forehead. "Are you Robert's significant other?"
She tilted her head, the question catching her off as she slowly nodded.
The Human bowed his head, "Then I wish to thank you. You have done a great deed saving his life. A lot of us consider him to be a great friend."
"Oh, um..." Xalah was unsure of how to respond.
"You do not have to say a word. I will leave you to your rest." The Human said before he left her on her own. Xalah blinking at the Human's odd behavior before yawning, she closed her eyes as her jaw stretched before she rested her hood against the pillow. Her thoughts now on her new life that was ahead of her.
Barrack C
"-And here we are! Home sweet home!" Madison said as the three of them got off the elevator. Robert slithered forward as he checked his military cot, noticing no change or difference.
"Hey, you guys didn't touch any of my stuff."
Dimitri looked down, "Of course Comrade... We thought at the time we would use it as a reminder..."
There was a long awkward silence.
"Well, enough about that. Let's all get some sleep." Madison said as he went to his bed, taking off his armor before lying down. Dimitri nodded as he did the same, with Robert slithering onto his own.
"Goodnight Comrades."
"'Night Dimitri." Madison said, "Sweet dreams to ya Robert."
Robert smiled, exhaustion taking over his body quickly. "Thanks, feels good to be back."
His blue eyes steadily closed as sleep came to him.
Radio Tower
He was back there, at the tower. His coils close to the ground as the place was abandoned, a giant firefight had broken out.
She laid dying in his hands, her red eyes looking at him with disbelief.
"Robert... You are safe." She simply rasped before her head slumped, now dead in his arms from a wound she had taken for him. His eyes were wide with shock, attempting to comprehend what happened.
That the one he had grown to love was gone, and it was all his fault.
Vicious and cruel laughter echoed above as the Hunter mocked him for his weakness. a holographic sight forming at the edge of his vision. Robert quickly realizing that he was next to be shot as he slowly closed his eyes
And then the nightmare ended.
Barrack C
Robert awoke silently, his blue eyes wide open as he stared up at the bunk above him. He blinked before he put a hand to his reptilian forehead, rubbing the stress out of them.
That was possibly the worst dream he had in a while.
He turned his body to the side to check his alarm clock, the time being around 6 in the morning. Robert slowly slithered out of bed, his X-com t-shirt was still on as he looked around to see his squad, Mox included. They were all asleep.
They were off for today it would seem.
The black Viper smiled in an unsure fashion, still troubled by his nightmare. He turned his head to the elevator as he slithered to it, entering the doorway, the door closing behind him as he went up.
Medical Bay
He slithered out as he glanced around the place, the medical bay empty as not a soul was in sight. Yet the metal door to Xalah's room was open. The black Viper tilted his head as he slithered up to the doorway, looking inside.
She was gone.
His eyes widened for a second until he heard someone speak up, "You are looking for her I presume?"
He turned his hood to see another doctor, who was just coming out of Amir's room, the Iranian behind her appeared to be asleep. Robert looked back at the doctor before nodding.
"She made a startling recovery. It must have had to do with fast metabolism." She gestured to the elevator, "She went to the proving grounds after being briefed by the Commander and Bradford."
"By herself?" Robert asked, with a hint of worry. The doctor nodded, confirming his fear. "Right, thanks."
He immediately turned tail, slithering onto the elevator.
Proving Ground
"-And that is how it works. Quite simplistic if one were to think about it."
As soon as Robert had gotten off, the sound of two people conversing was heard. He glanced around the messy place before spotting Xalah, her back turned to him as Lily talked to her.
Lily crossed her arms as she smirked. "Oh, there you are Robert."
Xalah turned around, giving Robert a look at her tight fitting X-com tank top she now wore. The brown color scheme contrasting with her yellow and orange scales as it covered her upper body. Her smooth curves and athletic body strained against the synthetic fabric, as Robert couldn't help but stare.
She smiled as she slithered to him, wrapping her arms around his shoulders in a tight embrace. "Good morning... My King."
"M-Morning..." Robert simply said, conscious that her breasts were pressing up against his chest again. Lily immediately chuckled out.
"Ha! I've never seen you look so timid Robert!"
Xalah turned her hood back to Lily, "Timid?"
"It means when someone's nervous. Like Robert right now."
The Viper turned her head back to her him, separating as she slithered back, "Oh... I am so sorry-"
"No, no... I-It's okay Xalah. What were you both up to?"
Xalah and Lily looked at each other. "Lily Shen wanted to know about how my beam rifle worked." Xalah rasped.
"Oh. I sssee." Robert hissed. "Where did you get that... Shirt?"
"You like it?" She asked as she showed it off a little, her coils twisting as she tilted her body. "That female doctor gave it to me." She sighed in relief as she rubbed the sides of the synthetic fabric, "It feels so comfy on my scales."
"G-Good to hear." Robert simply rasped, his blue eyes wide. Xalah smiled before she turned her head to Lily.
"Is it alright if I were to check out the-"
Lily brushed a hand, "Yeah sure, go ahead Xalah."
The Viper nodded before she slithered into the other room. Lily immediately turned her head to Robert, laughing softly. "Oh my god... I don't think I've ever seen you like that before."
"I can't help it..." The black Viper rasped, "She's just so-"
"Alright you can stop there snake man. I don't need to hear all of it." Lily said as she picked up a weapon before tweaking it. "Xalah already told me about your trip by the way. Sounded like it was quite the journey."
"Yeah, it was." Robert admitted, "Wait... Did she tell you-"
"Everything... Even the hot spring."
The black Viper immediately hung his hood down, "Oh god."
Lily chuckled, "Hey, there's nothing to be ashamed of. It sounded romantic between two of you if you ask me."
Robert wanted to smile, yet the nightmare that he had still stuck in his mind. He paused for a second before hearing Xalah speak up from down the hallway.
"Robert, could you come over here for a second. I wish to show you something."
Lily turned her head to the black Viper, "Welp, I better get back to work. Richard had a few idea's that I could work on. You go on ahead, her new room is down there."
Robert nodded before he slithered away slowly into the next hall, reaching a room as the metal door automatically as closed behind him. The room had seemingly been cleared out, with a few equipment and screens in place. A table in the middle that had no seat next to was in the center, with a few papers on it.
Xalah stood in the middle of the room, looking around the place as she inspected it.
"So this is where you'll be working?" Robert asked. He noticed a door leading to the back room as well, complete with bedding that was suited for her. "And living?"
She smiled at him, her serpentine features brightening. "Of course, your superior's were extremely generous... I was surprised in all honesty..." She looked around the room. "But later they stated that they would have to question me further. I'm unsure of what they will ask this time."
He chuckled before he remembered the dream he had, Robert's grin disappearing "Will-... Will you be alright here?"
Xalah tilted her head, briefly taken back from the question. "Yes. I will. Is there something wrong?"
"No... no, it's just that-" He paused as he reached out, gently placing his hands into hers. "About what you said at the hot spring..." He sighed, "I-I don't want to lose you either."
She blinked as she leaned forward, hugging him close. He sighed as he accepted her embrace, the two of them wrapping their arms around each other. Xalah then briefly leaned her head back.
"You won't..." She then peered into his eyes, "Robert. You've done so much for me these past few days... And you're worry shows to me that you truly care for me. I could not have asked for anything better from you."
And then she leaned forward again, planting a soft kiss. Robert hesitating as he blinked before he gave in, melting in her embrace. He then noticed her press forward, becoming more aggressive as she slowly wrapped her coils around his.
The black Viper's eyes shot open as he blinked, briefly separating as he gasped for air. "W-Wait, are we doing this? Here?"
"Yes... Please." She simply rasped as she pressed forward to kiss him, rubbing her warm scales against his. He groaned at the feeling, his arms tightening around her on instinct as he held her close. Her clothed breasts squishing against his shirt.
They separated for air as they both panted. Xalah was about to reach down for the bottom of her tank top till there was a knock at the door.
"Hey, Robert? Ya in there partner?"
Robert's eyes widened, as did Xalah as the two of them uncoiled from each other. Madison entered as he looked through the door way.
"Ah, there you are. Ya woke up earlier then I di-" He paused as he looked at Xalah, "Oh, howdy. Ya must be Robert's... Sweetheart."
"Sweetheart?" Xalah asked. Robert groaned in embarrassment.
"It mean's lover..." The black Viper said as the Texan laughed.
"But in all seriousness,-" Madison walked up to the female Viper, extending his hand. "Pleasure meeting you ma'am. Name's Madison."
She looked at her mate with an unsure glance as Robert smiled, nodding. She then turned her hood back before shaking the operatives hand. "My name is Xalah."
"I know, Robert told me. And I gotta say, he's one lucky son of a bitch thanks to you."
Xalah paused before she glared, baring her fangs. "You dare insult my King!?"
Robert immediately slithered up to her, "W-Woah Xalah! It's okay! Madison is just kidding."
"Oh... I am deeply sorry then." She said as she bowed her hood.
Madison chuckled, albeit nervously this time. "Erm, apology accepted." He turned his head has he coughed awkwardly, "Lily told me ya were down here. And we, uh, made some breakfast upstairs. The rest of the squad is awake now. So come on up." He looked at Xalah, "Ya can come along too if ya want miss."
The female Viper blinked before she nodded, "Very well. I have not had anything to eat yet.". She slowly turned her head to Robert, edging close to whisper next to his serpentine ear. "But later we shall continue where we left off... My King."
Robert fought back a shiver as he slowly nodded, "A-Affirmitave."
She smiled before slithering out of the room, "I will wait at the elevator.". She shot him one last alluring glance as she left.
Madison put his wide brimmed hat back on, now sporting a wide grin. "Ho-lee Shit! Ya weren't lying! You're completely head over heels for her!"
Robert rolled his eyes, "Shut up..."
"I mean, how are you even able to fondle those two-"
"Madison..." Robert turned his head, shaking his hood. "Just... Stop..."
"Heh, right. Apologies."
Elevator
The three of them stood in the elevator. Madison standing in front of the two Vipers as the Texan pressed the button, beckoning the platform upwards.
"T-They do?" She asked before bowing her head down, "I feel as if my presence will insult them."
"Don't say that. If they could accept me then they sure as hell will accept you."
"You truly think so?" Xalah asked.
"I know so."
She paused before closing her eyes, nuzzling her head affectionately on his shoulder. Robert smiled as did Madison as the Texan stood next to the entrance, the doors now beginning to open.
A trio of operatives stood there, wearing blackened trench coats and hoods. Madison's eyes widened as he whispered to Robert.
"Look alive partner..."
Robert was about to ask what he meant before the operatives came inside, brandishing Vektor rifle's as they seemingly stared at the two Vipers.
The first one spoke up, a sneer in his voice. "What the hell are these things doing in here?"
Xalah and Robert were taken aback by the apparent hostility.
Madison grunted, "I would appreciate it if you didn't insult my friend-"
"You consider that thing your friend?"
"I do, so show some fucking respect!"
"Oh yeah? Then what about the other o-"
"Abbot, Barry" A commanding voice said, the two infiltrators turned there heads to their leader. The woman holding her own rifle as she glanced at the two Vipers before sighing, "Keep your temper's under control."
"Are you kidding me Elena!? Did you forget about how those damn snakes killed our folk's-"
"Do not question my orders. Stand down."
The two men grumbled as they reached the floor, exiting the elevator as the two of them left. Elena followed after them as she turned her head one last time before exiting. The door closing behind them.
There was a long awkward silence before Robert spoke, "Who the hell were they?"
Madison turned his head "Remember that bat shit crazy alien hunting group called the Reapers that Command told us about a while back? You just met some of 'em."
Robert was shocked at the statement. The Reapers not only hated ADVENT, but they also hated everything that was alien to an almost fanatical degree.
"Reapers... I think I know of them..." Xalah slowly said, her expression grim. "However they went by a different name... Beheaders."
"Beheaders?" Robert asked.
"Yes, because bodies that were found in their areas would be without heads. My sisters told me that they would take grizzly trophies of our dead brethren."
Robert paused, noticing Xalah holding a distinct fear in her eyes. He wanted to comfort her, but didn't exactly know how.
"Holy ssshit..." Robert hissed as he turned his head to Madison, "And X-com recruited them!?"
Madison sighed, "Lot's can change in the past few days partner. That damn alien sniper from last night was just one of our many problems, so we need all the help we can get." The Texan paused, "But at least that gall named Elena is reasonable. So I wouldn't worry too much about it."
As soon as the elevator doors opened again, the smell of bacon and eggs drifted heavily as the loud blaring of a tv was heard. Xalah was by Robert's side as the female Viper sniffed the air before gasping. Her fears temporarily forgotten.
"What is that... Exotic smell?"
Madison chuckled as he walked past the two Vipers, "Welp, everyone's waitin' on you two. Best not hold 'em up."
"Right." Robert rasped as he gently held onto her shoulder. "C'mon Xalah. I think it's time you officially met my team... And home cooked food."
The Viper nodded excitedly as she followed behind him, slithering closely as they went on their way.
Robert was admittedly unsure of what the future would bring for him and his lover as he watched her. But hopefully, he would be able to protect. And not repeat what had happened at the radio tower.
ADVENT Compound
Mirna sadly sighed as she stared at the empty pod that was across from her, the number now blank. It had been a few days since her Sister hadn't come for attendance, and that only meant one thing.
She held back a few tears, the moisture building up at the edge of her vision as she attempted to blink them away but to no avail.
Her sister was now gone.
Fresh droplets streamed down her face as she continued to look, unable to look away. Two nights ago she couldn't even comprehend the fact that Xalah didn't show up, and now it was just catching up to her.
"Mirna." A voice hissed out, she slowly turned her head to see a fellow Viper.
"Y-Yes Aadya?"
Aadya was by far a more fine example of a Viper soldier. Her form slightly bigger then most other Viper as her scales showed more visible signs of muscle and strength, she was a veteran by all accounts, being here the longest as her green eyes peered down at the smaller Viper.
"Is there something wrong? You have not equipped any of your gear yet."
"No... I-I'm fine." Mirna said as she looked down. Aadya slowly slithered up to her as she gently put a hand on the mourning Viper's shoulder.
"These damn Humans..." Aadya grunted, "I don't see why the Elders have so much patience for them if some of them refuse to follow the path destined for them. If it weren't for those insurgents, then Xalah would still be alive."
Mirna slightly flinched at the word alive before she closed her eyes, "I-I just miss her so much Aadya... She was my only real sister. We were incubated in the same clutch after all..."
Aadya paused before narrowing her eyes as she held onto her, "Well... It is a good thing then. The Elders have granted us a chance."
The smaller Viper tilted her head, "A chance? For what exactly?"
"To strike back. Did you not read your objective for today? You are assigned with me."
"I am? What is our objective then?" Mirna asked.
Aadya smiled as she let loose a hiss, "The Chosen have found a pattern in their flight paths. We are going to intercept them and attack their base."
"R-Really?" Mirna asked, the smaller Viper's eyes were wide with disbelief. She had heard rumors about how the Chosen were going to be a turning point against the insurgents, and now she was starting to see why.
"Yes. And through that, we can avenge our fallen Sister. Put on your gear, we leave soon."
The smaller Viper nodded as Aadya slithered past her. Mirna now reaching into her locker as she took out her weapon and armor, she held a determined glare.
She would avenge Xalah by killing every single one of those Elder forsaken insurgents.
Mirna swore on that.
So, this story is going to go places. That's for sure. What will be Xalah's reaction to Mox? What'll happen now that the Chosen are in the mix? Will Mirna find out that her Sister is alive? Is The Hunter going to be Robert's main antagonist for this fanfic?
Those are just a few questions for the next chapter. Overall I'm still coming up with ideas as this story goes, ideas involving other dlc from Xcom like the Alien Hunters and such.
I was even thinking of potential... Addition's to Robert's unwitting love life, after all, we've seen how female's react to his presence. But I'll have to decide that on a later date.
P.S.
coduss... I'm going to have to ban you blowing my mind in the span of two seconds... Jk, I love you bye.