~ Allies and Aliens ~
The streets of Freya's Prospect were narrow and claustrophobic. The colony was created in a rather arid environment, just a couple of miles from the nearby surrounding jungle. For a world that is still in the infancy of colonization however, Freya's Prospect is quite a respectable size, even including a reasonably sized recreational district.
As I walked through the streets of the colonial colony, my thoughts were all but consumed in the prospect of my work. Ever since I had been accepted to Weyland-Yutani, my life has gone through more change than I ever thought possible. My life had been brought up to a new height, and then swiftly came crashing down with the realization that the very company that nurtured Humanities expansion to the stars, the company which practically ruled the galaxy, had been hiding darker secrets than I ever wished to acknowledge.
However, despite all I had learned and realized, I couldn't help but think of another subject more entrancing than anything else. Specimen Six. For all I had heard of the Xenomorph and their actions, I must say my first on hand experience with one was quite extraordinary. Thinking back on that day, I still couldn't believe what I did, William made sure of that.
As I got closer to the recreational district of the colony, the streets began to be filled with fellow employees and workers who were taking their off time to enjoy themselves. One particular building, not to much surprise, was drawing much of the attention of the male miners of the nearby quarry, which supplied most of the colony's population. Club Eden.
As my old man would have described it, Club Edin is a cesspool of sin and carnal desires here on BG-386. The night club was extremely popular in the colony, however I was one that was not very interested in establishments such as this, instead I stayed closer to more humbled shops and restaurants. However, as I passed by the entrance, a similar figure stumbled his way out of the entrance.
Upon seeing me, he immediately waved my way. Now being graced in the light of the setting sun, it was unmistakable who it was. "Hey! Is that you doc!? Wait up!" Samwell Vasquez yelled out as he stumbled his way through the crowd. Memories flushed back of my first arrival on the planet and the time I spent with Vasquez both during the trip, and for a few weeks before he was sent back to his post in the colony.
As he finally made his way to me, I could immediately tell that he wasn't exactly all there. His step had a wobble to it and the strong scent of alcohol was carried on his breath. He bore a blissful grin as he slapped me on the back. "Damn doc, how long has it been! I thought you'd visit more! You know normally when people sleep together for fourteen years they at least stay in touch!" Having been caught off guard by the joke, I shared a chuckle with the drunken man.
"It's good to see you again Vasquez." I said in a light hearted tone. Seeing the old guide brought a warmth of happiness, especially since my last friends, James, had disappeared for quite some time. While it was likely he was still working hard in the Volatile Materials Division, I couldn't help but fear something may have happened to him.
As I once again started walking to the monorail, Vasquez followed close so as to not get lost in the crowd. "So how have you been? It's been what, six or seven months since we last met?" I asked. "Yeah I'd reckon so Doc, maybe closer to a year though. So you gotta let me know, what's it like working with the big dogs up there in your ivory pyramid? Everything it lived up to be?" Vasquez asked with a heavy hint of sarcasm.
"Couldn't be farther from, feels like everything I'd ever known was wrong.". Hearing my response, Vasquez raised an eyebrow with curiosity. "What's that supposed to mean?" he asked. As much as I wanted to respond, I couldn't help but worry what could become of me if I said the wrong thing. Rubbing my neck I shrugged with defeat, "Can't exactly say, I'm sure you understand."
Carlos seemed rather upset about the refusal but thankfully didn't push the subject. Suddenly his smile found its way right back to him. "Hey Doc, how about we grab a round? I'll even buy the first round!" Drinking alone wasn't exactly an enticing thought to me, but drinking with someone who was already rather buzzed seemed even worse. "I'm sorry man, but my time for weekend leave is just about up, in fact the next monorail is my ride."
At my last comment, Vasquez slumped in defeat. He looked around for a moment before giving a sigh. "Yeah, well duty calls I guess, don't worry I understand. Hey! Let's make a deal! Next time you're in Freya's Prospect, we kick back, grab a couple drinks, and catch up properly." Weighing his offer, I couldn't see the harm in accepting. "You know what Vasquez? Sure, I'll accept that offer gladly."
With a knock on my shoulder Vasquez's mood seemed to skyrocket. "Hell yeah! Thought I'd have to start pulling teeth before I could get you for some partying! Though don't think for a second of backing out, and don't worry about company, I'll bring plenty." A flash of regret hit my heart, just what have I gotten myself into?
Finally reaching the loading station for the monorail, I climbed up the steps along with Vasquez to reach the platform. After taking a seat I settled down and got ready for the train. In only a few moments the bell tolled signaling that the arrival was near. As I stepped near the side, waiting for the train, Vasquez came up to me clearing his throat. "Hey, Orion, before you go, do you know why the hell they're sending so much firepower here?"
"What do you mean?" I asked, utterly oblivious of the subject on hand. Vasquez shook his head, "You mean you don't know? Really?" I shook my head in response. "The Marlow is en route to BG-386, they're only a couple years out now. Not only that but apparently they got some special cargo." Not a word had been spoken about any military vessels coming in, and what in the world could he possibly be referring to by 'special cargo'.
"This is the first time I'm hearing about any of this, what is The Marlow exactly?" Vasquez looked at me with a small tinge of recognition as he went to recall what he knew. "The Marlow is a rather heavily armored Attack Transport, boasting a pretty respectable history when it comes to bug hunts too. They say The Marlow helped suppress a rather large infestation from breaking out on Alpha Centauri."
As Vasquez gave his explanation, the train pulled up and the doors swung open. I stepped onto the train and turned back to Vasquez, "Any idea about the cargo?" He shook his head and suddenly the door slammed shut. "Something big is happening Orion! I'd wager my life on it!" Vasquez yelled as the train began to move.
As the view of the colony began to dart away, I couldn't help but begin to go deep in thought, theorizing what could possibly be happening. One thing that was for certain, was that something big was most certainly in motion.
"Hey Orion! I got some good news for you!" William called out as he rolled next to me. The observation room for Specimen Six had no doubt been more of what I expected when I joined R&D, however the actual experience here had been anything but. "You remember that fella you asked me to look for?" The day I first made contact with Six, I remember asking him to look for my old colleague. "James?" William snapped his fingers, "I found him. Turns out he got sent out for a couple months off world before getting sent back."
"What do you mean by 'off world'?" I asked, only to be responded with a shrug. "That's as much as I could find out, but you could always go and ask him yourself, apparently he is gonna be transferred to our division soon." The idea of James being sent to the Xenomorph research division didn't exactly fill me with hope for his fate.
William noticed my rather disappointed look as I thought of James and his fate. "C'mon man, maybe you'll be lucky and he'll get put with us. Even if he doesn't, you should still be able to work with him from time to time." William said as he rolled back to his desk. "I suppose you're right, however doesn't it just seem weird to you that he just up and disappears for some months, just to return like nothing happened?"
William nodded, "Yeah, no doubt about that, but it'll probably be a lot more clear when you actually talk to him. Besides, don't forget about the rules Orion." I shook my head, "Yeah, I know, no asking questions, how many times are you gonna tell me?" William chuckled, "Until you remember to get it through that thick skull of yours. You stop asking, and I'll stop telling."
I returned to my work, deciding to focus on the immediate problems first before I worried more about my old friend's fate. It was not long after that the doors soon opened, followed by Doctor Groves entering alongside his guards. The masked guards seemed to always be by him or his stations, no matter the time of day. One thing I've learned is that while Specimen Six seems to dislike many people, she seems to distrust the guards especially.
"Gentlemen, I trust everything is running well? No problems with Specimen Six, correct?" William swiftly responded and gave a nod, "No problems at all sir, the specimen is still in nominal levels and is sleeping as we speak. As per protocol all actions or interactions made have been reported and should have been sent out to you."
Groves gave a nod to William, "Good." he said. Turning to me Groves immediately gestured for me to come with him. "I'll be needing to speak with you for a moment Mr. Orion, I assure you I will not pry you of the research for long." Hearing his request I stood and joined him by the door. "You know where to reach me should problems arise, good-day Mr. William." With the last words spoken, Groves turned and I followed close.
The guards around us stayed close, marching all around us. It felt almost claustrophobic, being trapped all around by the armed masked men. The footsteps of their heavy boots echoed off the walls of the great hall of the Maximum Containment hall. All around our guarded posse were dozens of scientists and security going about their day. Windows peering into dozens of rooms lined the walls, revealing the countless experiments the labs contained.
The unusual sight of our group began to attract some attention, with even people from the second floor walkways giving us some cautious glances. As we marched our way through the halls of the facility, we soon made our way to the Doctor's office, and I was shown to my seat by his guards.
This was the first time I had been in his office since my very first day on BG-386, being back in here sparked memories of that day, however now that I look back upon it, I feel more regret than excitement. Groves sat behind his desk and the warm light from the setting sun shone in from behind him, for as barren as this world felt at times, it consistently proves itself that it hides some beauty. Even the distant alien ruins could be seen from the canopy of the trees, the great stone structures gleaming with reflective light from the sun's rays.
Groves waved the guards to leave the room, before closing the door and lowering the shutter on the window. Darkness filled the room as Groves sniffed out the warming light, only now to be illuminated by the cold green screens of the monitors around him. His stare made my blood run cold. I have always understood why so many show caution around Groves, with him being the head of the operations on the planet, it was only natural he held immense power.
Groves laced his fingers together and laid his elbows on his desk, "Nathan Orion, your previous actions last month attracted the attention of some very, very important people, myself included." Groves began as he typed away on his keyboard. In a mere moment, an image appeared of myself during my interaction with Six. "You see Orion, as you know, Six is a very special asset of The Company, having shown capable of extraordinary intelligence, being on par or perhaps even greater than that of a Xenomorph Queen."
Xenomorph Queen? I had never seen or heard of anything of that nature, was it possible I somehow missed it during the training? However it would definitely explain the choice of name for the 'Royal Jelly'. My contemplation must have been obvious, as Groves quickly interjected my thoughts. "I apologize, I often forget that even those in Maximum Containment are oblivious to the Queen, but you will learn of her soon enough. For now, back to the task at hand."
"What you don't know about Specimen Six, is what exactly Weyland-Yutani wishes to achieve with her. Even when Six was first born, they immediately showed themselves far more capable than any other Xenomorph ever held by The Company. Their actions that day is why I was instructed to put Six on a very special, very secret project that I've been instructed to not only share with you, but also to recruit you for."
Groves allowed a moment of silence to pass to allow me to absorb the information. The idea of being put on some secret program, a small part of the old me still felt a bolt of excitement, but having seen some truths of the company, I couldn't help but feel dread as to what exactly I could possibly be tasked with.
"I've heard of your thoughts involving the Xenomorphs, your belief that there is more to them than just mindless violence." Groves said, it seemed his eye twitched ever so slightly. "You see, The Company and I believe the same thing, and after what you've done with Six, you showed the possibility. Our task for you is not a simple one, but vital for the continuation of our species. I wish for you to help make her complacent."
I shook my head, "What exactly do you mean by 'complacent' sir?" Groves once again typed on his keyboard, bringing up multiple files and photos. "As you can see here, this has been something we have been trying to achieve for a long time. However, through all we have done, we kept on coming up with failure after failure. Now, with your help, we are on the brink of greatness. If we could command the Xenomorphs, have them enact our will, just imagine what we could do. There would never be a threat to a colony again, we could bring upon an era free of violence between the populace."
Hearing the goal of this program I couldn't help but bear doubt over all of what he said, however it truly felt as though there was some slight truth to what he said. I almost questioned my doubts out loud, but a phantom voice in the back of my mind screamed out against it, I guess William's teaching finally got through. "So, what exactly would be my role in all of this Doctor? What am I supposed to do for you?" I inquired.
Groves nodded his head, "Don't worry, for the most part your job will stay relatively similar, however with this new role comes new benefits. You'll be taking William's position starting tonight, he will be notified shortly." Hearing that I was taking my colleagues job, it felt like I was stabbing him in the back. "Now being in charge of Six while I am not able to be present, you will have some extra tasks. I want you to have more interactions with Six at least once every two weeks. Nothing major, something as simple as a conversation could work, just keep working to build that connection you seemed to have established."
In all honesty, I wasn't sure if I was even capable of doing what he asked, after all, I'm not even sure what I did in the first place to make the connection. "Furthermore, I will allow you to put in requests for any changes you feel could help expedite the process, within reason. I also stress you do this alone, I will have some of my guards nearby when you start, just make sure William is gone. Don't forget the end goal of this mission either, I need her to not only listen to you, but myself as well. I will notify you a week in advance when I'll be coming for a progress check up. Lastly, I expect detailed reports following every interaction and development you might make. Do you have any questions?"
Did I have any questions? It was an almost comical question itself! Of course I have questions, dozens even. However, while I may be getting a new position with so much more access to previously redacted material, I still feel it is better to not ask anything that could turn this promotion into an execution. Deciding to lean on the side of caution, I shook my head no. Groves nodded his head before pulling up yet another page, "Well then I will leave you with this. Before I send you back, the man who opted you for this role will arrive here in four years time. If you fail to prove a breakthrough before he arrives, there will be consequences."
I gave him a nod and stood from my seat. "I understand Doctor Groves, you have my word I will bring you results." Groves returned my nod and gestured towards the door. As he did, the door opened and a single guard came up to me, gesturing for me to follow him. Following the instructions, I walked out of the Doctors office and back into the halls of the great facility. The guard immediately began to march me down back to the laboratory.
The entire walk back, I couldn't help but stay deep in thought, perhaps most of all over how William would react to the sudden shift in command. However he might take it, I know it will not be welcome news for him. After a few more minutes of walking, complimented by the many turns to reach our destination, we finally arrived. The masked guard turned and marched away as soon as we reached the door to the lab. All that is left now is to meet with William.
When the door opened I saw him waiting for me in the middle of the room with his few items in a box. He was tapping his foot quickly yet stopped the moment we made eye contact. "William, I'm guessing you already got the news?" I asked cautiously. "Yeah, for some reason the good Doctor thinks you can run this place better than I can." he responded with a cold tone. My chest felt tight as an awkward air permeated the room.
I shook my head, "Look William, I just want you to know it wasn't my decision, hell, I still don't even get why they chose me of all people! I have barely been here a year for crying out loud!" I sighed, "Look William, I just want you to understand it wasn't my idea, nor was it my choice. I am so sorry for what's happened." William kept his glare for a moment, but suddenly a smile found its way on his expression. He shook his head in amusement and clasped his hands together.
"Honestly Orion? I couldn't be more glad to be out of that spot, feels like I just got a big ol' target off my back the second I got the news." William said with a hint of amusement. "Don't sweat it kid, just don't forget the fundamentals, position might have changed but the threats? The threats always stay." Hearing Williams' response showered me in relief, thankfully what I was dreading most from today was not a problem at all.
"So then Orion, the Doctor got anything for us to do?" William asked as he moved his things to my old desk, while at the same time I moved my belongings to his. "Not for now, however I do need to know everything you do, reports, logs, all of it." William gave me a nod and walked over to my desk, ready to begin teaching me once again. However, before we began I decided to notify him of the changed schedule. "Also, my schedule has changed so I'll be staying even after you leave, just to let you know."
For the remainder of the day William taught me everything I needed to know to fill his shoes as head of Specimen Six's observation team. By the time his shift finally reached its end, I waved him goodbye and started to prepare myself for my task. The scanner still showed Six as being asleep, hopefully she wouldn't mind being awoken. Taking in a deep breath, I flipped the switch and the lights clicked on, flushing the room with their fluorescent beams.
As Six's form was revealed by the sudden shock of light, she soon began to awake. Deciding it best to give her a moment to achieve full consciousness, I figured it best to bring her a sort of peace treaty. Stepping outside of the room, I turned and made my way to the nearby freezer. Groves did say I could do what was needed to further progress, I'm sure a missing stake or two wouldn't hurt. After I had grabbed a steak, I placed it inside a bag and made my way back into the observation room.
By the time I entered the room, Six had finally fully awakened. The monitors showed her having full cognitive function, and she seemed rather alert as well, no doubt confused about the sudden wake up call. Walking to the door, I took a moment to collect myself, if I knew anything, it was that confidence was key to keeping her from striking.
With a hiss from the hydraulic locks, the door opened, revealing the large room that contained the greatest specimen Weyland-Yutani had ever encountered. Walking into the room, I took slow and calm steps towards Six, making sure to keep my breathing even. Six watched me the whole way, keeping a fierce eye on me, watching for any possible sign of a threat surly. I pulled the steak out of the bag and gave Six the best smile I could.
"Hey there Six, remember me? I uh, brought you some more food, you seemed to really enjoy it last time." Six simply stared at me as I talked to her. Letting out an uncomfortable chuckle, I took another step forward. It was just then I realized my biggest blunder, I had forgotten the cart entirely. I looked around for anything I could use but the room was completely empty. What the hell was I doing? Worst part is I couldn't back out now, if I left, what if Six thought I was simply mocking her? I couldn't risk breaking the already fragile trust between us.
Taking a deep breath, I took a step closer to Six. Now only mere feet away, I could hear her breath as the air released itself through her razor sharp teeth. Cautiously, I lifted the steak in front of her to allow her to reach it. She seemed to give it a strange look at first, and then myself as well. As she looked between myself and the meal, she finally decided to reach out and take a bite. From the videos I've seen of Xenomorphs launching out at prey, I couldn't help but be astonished by how gentle she was while eating out of my hand.
Watching her slowly eat the steak piece by piece put my worries to ease. With every passing moment I could feel myself grow more and more comfortable. "Is it that good? Maybe next time I stop by I'll be able to share a meal with you." I chuckled, thinking back to the promise I made to Vasquez just a few days ago, "Guess I owe two people dinner now huh?" Six simply turned her head in a quizzical style at my last statement before finishing the last few pieces of her steak.
The whole situation carried a heavy sense of deja-vu, and just like last time I couldn't help but feel that temptation to reach out and touch her once again. Having finished the steak, Six returned to her previous action of staring at me, "Hey there Six, I'm not even sure if you can understand me, but…" What was I doing? This whole scenario was ridiculous, I couldn't even imagine what this must look like from an outside perspective. While I trailed off, I raised my hand just as I did the time before, only this time I didn't make contact. Realizing what I was doing I froze, but before I could move the unthinkable happened, Six pushed her head into the palm of my hand.
Her Mesoskeleton that protected her head was unbelievably smooth, it was almost as if I was touching a long, curved piece of glass. She was cold to the touch as well, and I could feel the warmth of my hand slowly fade as the temperature evened out between us. All in all, the feeling was quite pleasant, and Six must have believed the same, as she soon pushed against my hand, similar to how pets of the old days like cats would.
Deciding to take the plunge, I stroked my hand across her head and actually pet her. Not knowing what to expect, I was definitely caught off guard by her response, she emitted a low vibrating noise, was she purring? At this point the whole situation seemed comical. Not only was I petting a Xenomorph, but she was actually purring! Thinking about it all I couldn't help but let out a hearty laugh, in doing so scarring Six. The moment the noise came out she jerked her head out of my palm and hissed at me in quite the threatening tone.
Having caught me off guard, I stumbled back and fell to the ground. Maybe I've pushed my luck a little too far for one day. Getting back up, grabbing the bag, and making sure to keep my back to the wall, I stumbled my way back inside the observation room. Six watched me as I did so and emanated a deep and low growl the whole time. Whether it was a warning or not, I didn't want to find out.
As I sealed the door from within, I collapsed against the wall and released heavy breaths. Sitting on the floor of the room, I looked back upon what I had done. Not only had I hand fed a Xenomorph, but I pet it as well! I could only imagine what kind of rant I would get from William had he been here, I wouldn't hear the end of it.
I collected myself and arose, walking over to my desk and looked to Six from behind the glass. As I turned my computer back on, I quickly began to file what happened for Groves. Nearly a half hour of paper work for only a five minute experience, I could tell this would be quite a time consuming job.
As I finally finished and saved the form. I arose from my desk and began to shut everything down. While Six seemed to be drifting back off to sleep, she still seemed to be doing her best at keeping an eye on me. Giving her a wave goodnight, I flipped the switch and shut the room down for the last time for the day. As I walked out and headed back to my room, I couldn't help but let a spark of joy fill my heart, maybe my old dreams still had a chance of coming true.
- Authors Note -
Behold! The return of everyone's favorite Enlisted Marine, Vasquez! With Chapter Seven launched we begin to see the reintroduction of some of our older characters. Furthermore, we see quite the shocking promotion for our young, kind hearted doctor Orion. With Orion now being put on Weyland-Yutani's most essential project, will it lead to his path to greatness, or perhaps ruin? I assure you that more characters are to return, and that Orion and Six will have quite a bit of time to bond. In the meantime however, time must run its course as the mystery of The Marlow and its very special passenger closes in. As always, thank you my amazing readers for reading yet another Chapter of The Sixth Specimen and I hope you enjoyed!