Synopsis: After a failed supply run, and a disastrous recovery mission, the Doctor is forced to take a step back and re-evaluate his decisions. A seemingly simple task has caused two of his operators to be captured. Threatening Rhodes Island with political backlash. Thankfully, an unknown ally has some insight into his problem, but at the same time, a former enemy asks a difficult favor.
Warning: This story will contain profanity, dark/adult themes, and blood/gore.
(9/10/2022 EDIT: Welcome to Prologue 2.0, enjoy!)
(Thoughts)
[-~-] pov change
[-] short time jump (like 2 characters sitting in awkward silence)
[scene or substantial time change]
If everything is in italics then it's either a memory/dream or hallucination.
Ghost of the slums
Prologue - Distant Pasts
The Doctor let out a tired breath as he leaned back in his chair and closed the final medical report.
It read similarly to the others: gunshot wound with no bullet and the victim rendered unconscious within seconds. Of course, the effect varied from operator to operator based on individual build. But for most, it lasted a couple of hours, a whole day at worst. Which just so happened to be more than enough time for Reunion to capture two of his operators, Jessica and Liskarm to be precise.
And so, not only was he in a tight spot morally, but if news of what happened reached Blacksteel... no-, Kal'tsit assured him she would 'handle that' and urged him to focus on the task at hand.
Which brought him back to what all this trouble stemmed from. A cargo escort. Something he had done tens- if not hundreds of times. Except for this time, Reunion happened to take a specific interest in the supplies being transported.
Supplies that, he later found out, were nothing more than hormone suppressants usually issued to operators that suffered from natural mating cycles.
Although, with some of his subordinates coming to mind, those medications would likely prove to be crucial.
But to a fringe group of Reunion? He could only imagine what went through their heads when they inspected their spoils of battle. Which unsurprisingly - either because of said supplies or the hostages - resulted in Rhodes Island receiving a message shortly after the conflict. The whole ordeal was strange... to say the least.
Or more specifically, a particular sniper, one they couldn't get any dirt on. Not even Kal'tsit, with her seemingly endless knowledge and countless sources of intel, could find out anything. And according to past intel on Reunion, there shouldn't be any more snipers of this power within Reunion, as the last 'Elite Sniper' they knew of was Faust...
Unless...
"Have I become overconfident in my abilities…?" He thought.
No, that wasn't it. His problem was that he had become too used to sending in six-star operators and watching his problems disappear. Which in hindsight made his decision to send in a couple of five-star operators with the reserve team... a terrible one. But at the time, he was trying to be nice and let them stretch their legs.
In reality, it couldn't have gone worse. Well- actually... it definitely could have, had the sniper been shooting anything other than tranquilizers he would be reading over morgue reports instead...
The Doctor supposed he owed the sniper a thanks - or four to be precise.
Another breath left him, this one more drawn out than the last. And a look at the clock revealed it to be a half-hour past midnight. Which in turn left him four hours till he set out for negotiations...
"A couple more documents… then we'll call it a night." He thought, glancing at the sleeping form of Amiya as she lay on the couch.
Standing from his desk, he made to exit, hoping another coffee would be enough to carry him through a few more documents. As he neared the door, he passed by Amiya and gently laid a nearby blanket over her form. After all, it was a well-deserved rest following the last couple of months.
The door to his office slid open with a dull hiss, allowing him to sneak into the hallway without awakening his assistant.
[-]
The journey to his destination wasn't far, just a short walk and ride down the elevator led him to the mess hall. A place usually bustling with commotion, now empty and silent, although that made sense given the time. This also meant he had to settle for vending machine coffee, which in and of itself wasn't that bad. But, it didn't even compare to the stuff Mousse brewed up in her little cafe.
He shook his head with a laugh, taping a couple of familiar buttons on the machine's screen as he thought about the time he first discovered her shop. The only thing more surprising than how good the coffee was, would have been seeing Frostleaf wearing a maid outfit. Remembering her embarrassed expression always brought a smile to his face.
The machine finished its cycle with a soothing chime, prompting him to grab his cup and quickly fasten a heat sleeve around it. With that done, he began to trace his steps back to his office, walking through the empty halls as if he was on autopilot. But as he entered the elevator, his mind once again began to wander to the coming mission...
To the surprise of his colleagues, the Doctor had accepted Reunion's deal, even though he knew full well how important each and every crate of resources was to the landship. Because the safety of his operators was his main priority - borrowed or not - and if that mentality put Rhodes Island in a bad spot, he could always work out a deal with the Silverash Family. And so, true to the demands relayed by the enemy messenger, he had a truck fueled up and ready to depart before dawn. Loaded up with some rather basic supplies that Koval - the self-proclaimed Reunion leader - demanded in exchange for Doctor's pair of operators and the unwanted crate that started this whole mess.
A soft ring then brought him back to reality as the elevator doors opened, a moment the Doctor to continue his journey.
Of course, he also had a plan if things went south, one appropriately named 'Hail Mary'.
It was a simple plan, but one that held just as much weight as previous operations. As with failure, Rhodes Island could be painted in a bad light for years to come.
"No pressure at all…" He thought, turning the corner that led to his office.
Oddly enough, instead of an empty hallway, he actually spotted a pair of figures standing outside his door. He immediately recognized Saria as one of them and as he got closer he also noticed the door to his office slide open as yet another figure exited. To his surprise, Kal'tsit walked through the threshold, followed closely by Amiya, and after a few unintelligible words she raised her arm.
And in doing so, spotted him.
"Doctor, I was about to call you." Kal'tsit said, her arm lowering.
"Good timing, I suppose…" The Doctor replied, looking between the three. "What brings you here… at such a time?"
His question came out hesitantly as he took note of the individual who kept very close to Saria. The familiar white outfit they wore caused him to raise an eyebrow. No doubt they were from Reunion, although that made him even more curious as to why they were here. Caught snooping around the landship? Maybe another messenger from that Koval fellow? Although sending a… medic - he assumed by the outfit - was very interesting.
Saria ended up taking the initiative, gesturing to the man next to her. "This one here claims to have some information you'll want to hear."
Any drowsiness the doctor was feeling moments ago suddenly vanished, but before he could ask her to elaborate Kal'tsit interjected.
"Somewhere secure, if you will." Kal'tsit motioned towards his office.
"Ahh, of course." He caught himself; they were standing in the hallway after all. "Please, come in."
The Doctor motioned with a hand and Kal'tsit entered first, followed closely by Amiya. Saria then led her charge through as the Doctor came in last. The door closed behind him and he immediately walked himself around his desk where he motioned everyone to sit. They did so, with the exception of Saria, who remained standing behind the supposed informant.
"So…" Doctor began, taking a seat for himself and casting his gaze towards Kal'tsit, as she was likely the most informed. "What is this about, exactly?"
She leaned back into her chair, crossing her arms in her lap before beginning. "As I'm sure you are aware, Rhodes Island has elite operators deployed across Terra."
"I am." He replied, already having speculations on where this was going.
"Their jobs can range from combat to espionage," She explained, pointing to the Perro next to her. "This is Rhodes Island Elite Operator Krys, codename 'Medic'. He has been working inside of Reunion since Lungmen."
"I see…"
"As to the exact details on why he is here now, I will let him explain."
The Doctor then gave his full attention to this so-called 'Krys' person.
"I hope you'll forgive my straightforwardness, Doctor, but I don't have much time to chat." This Krys started, sitting a little straighter in his chair.
"I would appreciate it actually."
"Perfect," Krys began, clearing his throat. "So... as it turns out, I just so happen to be embedded within the group that took your two operators hostage."
The Doctor's whole posture froze as he eyed the other man. "Is that so?"
"Yessir," Krys started. "Operator Liskarm and Jessica, correct? From Black Steel?"
"That's them…" The Doctor let out a breath. "How are they?"
"Both are doing well. I actually just came from checking them over personally," Krys continued. "Besides an entry wound from the bullets and some scrapes and bruises, they are both fine. Just a little shaken up."
"Good, good." The Doctor leaned back in his chair and let out a breath. "Where are they being held?"
"Well if they weren't moved, they'll be in a safe room on the top floor of the western building." Krys then started moving his arms around. "Problem is, that building is sorta Geist's domain. He can move around to get an almost 360-degree view, traps, escape routes, you name it."
"Geist? Is that the sniper?" Kal'tsit asked.
"Ahh… yes, sorry." Krys apologized, realizing his oversight.
"What can you tell me about him?" Doctor inquired.
"That... is a little more difficult. Other than when I looked over the two hostages, I think I've only talked to him once." Krys explained. "Back when he first joined us, that is. And, as far as I know, nobody else keeps tabs on him besides Koval."
The Doctor hummed in response, urging him to continue.
"But... from what I have seen, he's either an Imperial deserter or killed one and stole their gear."
"Why do you say that?" Doctor asked.
"Well, he wears the uniform of one…"
"And what of the weapon he uses?" Kal'tsit asked.
"Mmm, that's the odd part, it looks like an LGD sniper rifle to me." Krys answered. "Yet he doesn't display the traits of most Sankta..."
"Sounds like a looter to me." Saria commented.
"Maybe..." Kal'tsit started. "But if so, how would he have the ability to use a Laterano weapon?"
"..."
The Doctor brought a hand to his chin, noticing Kal'tsit do the same as they mulled over what Krys said.
"And what of their leader? Koval if I remember correctly?" The Doctor followed up.
"He's a pretty typical Sarkaz. Though, strangely enough, he's better with words than swords." Krys explained, leaning back in his chair with a frown. "But don't let that cause you to underestimate him."
"So expect tricks tomorrow?"
"I'd keep it in mind."
"I will."
There was a drawn-out silence as each person waited for the other to ask a question. But after a few moments of nothing, Krys' attention was drawn towards his wrist. He frowned momentarily before looking toward the Doctor.
"Seems I lost track of time a little bit, I told them I was simply going to look for supplies, so I should get going." Krys began, standing from his seat. "Thank you for your time, Doctor."
"No, thank you for the information. It should help greatly for tomorrow." The Doctor replied, also rising from his seat.
Saria took that as a cue and led Krys out. The Doctor was then left alone with Kal'tsit and Amiya, the former still wearing a thoughtful expression.
[-]
"Does any of that make sense to you?"
"...I had heard rumors of some Ursus generals experimenting with Laterano weapons… but nothing ever came of it," Kal'tsis explained with a frown. "Or so I thought."
"You don't think it's a Sankta wearing an Imperial uniform?" Doctor offered.
"They wouldn't earn many favors wearing that while being part of Reunion." Kal'tsit debunked.
"Good point..." Doctor replied.
"..."
"..."
"If that is all, I will be retiring for the night," Kal'tsit said, standing from her seat. "You should as well, Doctor."
"I think I will, after that..." He agreed, standing and walking to the door with her.
"Good night, Doctor." Kal'tsit bid farewell, slipping through the threshold.
"...Sleep well."
As the door closed once more, the Doctor let a breath of relief escape his tired body. And with it being just him and Amiya, he allowed himself to lean back against his desk once he walked back to it. But a glance towards his assistant showed a concerned expression written on her face.
"I think that's enough for tonight." The Doctor offered, reaching across and grabbing the - now lukewarm - coffee from his desk. "How about we call it a night."
"Hai…" Amiya answered, turning into a yawn halfway through as she laid back down. "I think I'll stay here for the night if you don't mind."
"Of course not. But I should be asking you that, are you sure you want to sleep on the couch?" He asked, learning his lesson from many nights at his desk. "You'll wake up sore."
"I'm sure..."
"Okay... see you in the morning then." He submitted, making his way towards the office door.
He raised his hand, motioning to cycle the door to 'night mode' so only those with access could interrupt.
"Dokutah..." Amiya called to him, weakly glancing at him with a half-lidded eye. "Make sure you sleep tonight... we need you tomorrow."
"I will, I will..." He assured, taping the moon icon on the door display.
Yet... instead of the normal 'LOCKED' notification appearing, he was met with an 'ERROR' message. A second later he learned why, as the door suddenly slid open. He stood in surprise as he waited for it to fully open, expecting Kal'tsit or maybe Saria to have returned. But to his even greater surprise, it was neither.
It was… Mudrock?
"...?"
"Doctor…?" Mudrock started, glancing at Amiya. "Hmm…? Sorry, is it too late?"
"Ehh... yes and no," He motioned towards Amiya. "If you don't mind, we can walk somewhere and talk?"
Mudrock hummed in reply, although he didn't miss the look of indecision on her normally neutral face. Although it wasn't uncommon for Mudrock to seek him out to converse, she usually kept to herself when it was this late at night. Something that caused him to wonder exactly what she needed at this time.
But nonetheless, the Doctor led the way after making sure his door was locked, so as to give Amiya some privacy.
He then decided to lead her somewhere close, which also happened to be one of his favorite spots to relax.
But as they walked... Mudrock didn't say a word, only her troubled expression grew.
Eventually, they made their way closer to the center of the landship and both parties found themselves naturally drawn to an observation window. One that happened to overlook the greenhouse and hold quite the view, considering they were on one of the highest floors they could just about see the entire area. Each of them almost immediately found themselves hypnotized by the view, as the artificial lighting basked the area in a soft glow.
Only then, when both were lost in the scenery did Mudrock speak up.
"More often than not, during these late nights, my thoughts turn to my former people…" Mudrock started, maroon gaze looking to nothing in particular.
The Doctor didn't reply. He had read enough of her files to know how troubled her past was, so instead... he listened.
"To the ones that made it here… and to the ones I failed… that weren't so fortunate." She continued.
"..." He wanted to reply. To give her any words of comfort, but he knew some wounds would never heal.
"Frostnova…"
"I happened to overhear gossip related to your recent battle…" She started, brow knitted tightly. "And so... I watched the battle record..."
The Doctor raised an eyebrow behind his mask, wondering exactly what she was getting at.
"The enemy… the sniper you battled… I have this weird feeling of reminiscence." She said, suddenly locking eyes with him. "I think I know him."
He frowned, yet again being struck with another curveball, and cocked his head curiously.
"Really?"
"Mmm... it is most likely a false sense of hope, but my friends' agree." She explained, sitting on a nearby bench.
"How can you be sure?"
"I cannot… but the way he was described… and the sound of his weapon. Both remind me of a warrior who was once part of 'Mudrock Squad'..." She informed, falling silent afterward.
He had a guess why, but he didn't like it.
"Rhodes Island has done more for me than I could ever hope to repay…" She started, taking a long pause before continuing. "But please… if you can, try and save him. He was a good man and... I fear something... something terrible may have happened if he has left Lungmen alone."
"..." The Doctor paused, taking in all she said. "What do you mean?"
"...Nearly halfway through our journey to Kazdel, he was heavily wounded by the unique arts of our pursuers." Mudrock looked down as a troubled look washed over. "I then told his sister and a few others to split off and head to Lungmen instead."
"I see..." He said, curiosity wandering. "You said he joined you? Where did he come from?"
"Mmm..." Mudrock wore a thoughtful expression as she thought back. "He didn't talk much... or rather, he could only speak Ursine. But his sister was able to explain they fled Ursus after becoming infected."
The Doctor nodded and silence once again fell upon the pair.
After a few moments, the Doctor made a gesture and Mudrock stood once more as they began their walk back. He turned to her as they walked, mouth opening and closing multiple times but to no avail. As if this mission couldn't get more difficult...
They eventually reached his office, where he let out a slow breath and shook his head gently. "I'm sorry, but the main priority tomorrow is the safety and security of Jessica and Liskarm."
Mudrock's eyes glanced towards him for a moment, before she frowned and nodded her head. "I… understand-"
"But… I will see what I can do."
Her expression changed just as suddenly as he finished. A rare display of happiness overcame her visage as she looked at him.
"Thank you, Doctor." She said, smiling in front of him for a moment before she turned and made for her room.
The Doctor watched her for a moment before taking in a long breath and casting his gaze to the ceiling. It didn't offer any answers, so instead, he let out the saved breath past pursed lips in a vain attempt to calm his racing mind so he could maybe get a few hours of sleep... Knowing that wouldn't get him anywhere, he instead used his keycard to open his door and practically dragged himself in.
As per most nights, bridging the gap between his office and quarters felt like miles, but with the events of tonight, he almost needed a rotorcraft to make the distance...
"What have I gotten myself into?" He mumbled, finally reaching his bed, where he proceeded to faceplant onto it and drift off almost instantly.
Authors notes: Thanks to everyone for reading, the first couple of chapters might come out a little rough as I haven't written anything proper in about 5 years. It should get better as time goes on. But if you find anything feel free to let me know.
For those wondering, this story takes place somewhere between chapters 8-9 and will stay lore accurate for the most part. I will obviously take liberties here and there because the lore of AK can be wack at times. But I will make sure to keep character personalities/backgrounds as close as possible.
And the final comment is to any artist out there reading this, if anyone is taking commissions I'm dying to get some artwork made up of my boi 'Geist' so if you are interested please PM me.
*NEXT CHAPTER WILL GO LIVE NOV 24th*