Long Live the Queen

The Bastion, Overlook of the Wasteland

All the heads of the families now looked and felt similar to her when the Commander had first told her what he wanted. Shocked, disbelief, uncertainty, wondering what the catch could possibly be. She'd known he never did anything without reason, but his explanation for it was shockingly simple: He believed she would be the most useful. At this point she was even unsure that there was a subtler motive beyond necessity.

But still…

Putting the leader of a group that had once fought against him was…surprising. She would have never suspected that his pragmatism would work in their favor.

But here they were, seated around the familiar wooden table with a white document sitting in the middle. Their future, and, as things looked now, what would be the last meeting of EXALT.

Matthew spoke first. "Well then."

"Of all the things I expected…" Elizabeth said absentmindedly. "This wasn't it…why would he…"

"He needs us," Zara stated flatly. "Think about who we're dealing with. There isn't some deeper motive here, nor do I think it's a trap. The fact is that EXALT is more useful in positions of power than simple disbandment."

"The Commander is not you, Zara," Hasina interrupted. "He was subtle enough to construct the new United Nations without us knowing, and is no doubt hiding it from the Council."

"Regardless of the reasoning," Darian said slowly. "No matter what point of view you look from, he is taking a massive risk. And I can't see him taking it unless he had guarantees that we'd do exactly what he expected."

"He doesn't need a guarantee," Saudia said slowly. "This is our entire purpose. The reason EXALT was conceived in the first place. To lead humanity."

"And the purpose of ADVENT is to do exactly that," Matthew finished quietly. "Albeit with some restrictions. I've overlooked the document. You will not have complete control, Director-"

"But enough," Saudia finished. "And with each of you and your families embedded in the organization, we can ensure that retain enough influence."

"The thing is that we don't need to hide anymore," Zara said, sounding more excited than any of them. "Exclusive control was ideal, but this is the next best thing. I've read the Directive as well, Matthew, and I'm confident that whoever we end up working with, they'll at least be competent."

"I agree," Hasina nodded. "The Commander was smart enough not to turn the power completely to the public. There are checks and balances everywhere, all built around competency, efficiency and professionalism."

"It sounds too good to be true," Elizabeth muttered, shaking her head. She picked up the document. "On paper…this looks good. Exceptional, even. But in practice…I don't know how well it will work. Making humans work together will be difficult, Saudia, and ADVENT may not materialize into the world power the Commander believes it will."

"I can guarantee that China will not join anything organized by the Commander," Yakov added. "I'm also not convinced that most of Europe, much less the United States will accept a sovereign world power. Americans in particular are notoriously independent."

"The President herself supports this," Elizabeth pointed out. "And the aliens might scare the European nations into joining, if only for protection."

"The President is not sovereign," Matthew stated flatly. "Ignoring her approval ratings, something on this scale would be impossible without Congress. Can you imagine how the Republicans will react to her essentially declaring the Constitution null and void? Submitting to an international power? The Democrats will also push back too, probably for similar reasons. They may approve of some of ADVENT's positions, but the majority will view it as authoritarian."

"Because it is authoritarian," Hasina said, lacing her fingers together. "When the state police force has nearly as much authority as the military, people are not going to like that. Throw in the government controlling or heavily regulating every aspect of traditionally private sector jobs, and you have socialism with a bit of communism thrown in for good measure."

"Hey, ultimately, the rules for independent businesses seem reasonable," Matthew shrugged. "While quite a few people will throw a fit, it is ultimately one of the better parts of ADVENT. But Yakov has a point. Even if we approve of this…what's in this is enough to have people taking to the streets. You want a civil war? This is how one starts."

"And I'd tend to agree, were this not involving aliens," Saudia nodded. "People are getting scared. They are scared. If there is any time to unite the world…this is it. Besides…I think I know how President Treduant will be joining ADVENT. Elizabeth, remember that bill?"

"I certainly do," she smiled as she also picked up on what Saudia had determined. "And the good president is very clever, provided everything goes to her plan."

"I understand your point," Saudia said, looking at Yakov. "But the Commander has assured me that ADVENT is not, nor designed to be just a 'United Nations.' It's not simply a political body, it is a military one. And above all else, that goal is to protect and advance humanity. If other nations throw that into question…there are means to deal with them. Legally, of course."

Yakov whistled. "He is bold. I did not expect him to be this ruthless, even knowing his nature."

"He has only set the framework in place," Saudia corrected, the corners of her lips curling up. "What actually is executed is up to me. And if I must annex a country to protect more, I will do it, and it will be legal."

"We know what your position will be," Hasina said, changing the subject. "But what of the rest of us? Or has the Commander not decided, or relegated that to you?"

"As ADVENT will be under my leadership, as EXALT is now, he felt it would be better for me to decide where each of you will serve best," Saudia answered. "So that will be decided now."

"I think our place is clear," Darian said. "We head ADVENT's research and development branches."

"And we head ADVENT Engineering," Yakov agreed. "With our respective non-engineering agents reporting to their respective divisions."

"I don't think this is going to be quite as easy as you think," Hasina warned bluntly, frowing at both eager men. "I'm certain that ADVENT already has an established R&D branch and engineering. With people leading them. They aren't just going to let you take over."

"We can deal with that issue if it comes up," Darian answered smoothly. "ADVENT is in the beginning stages. Nothing is concrete. Worst case, we ensure our people are high-ranking that won't be an issue."

"Unless you want to make my life difficult, you won't see this as a pure power grab," Saudia warned icily towards Darian. "We're going to have to work with people outside of EXALT, and we will have to get used to not everything being under our direct control. I will try to ensure your places are secured, but there are no guarantees here. Now," she turned the wider table. "Elizabeth, as ADVENT does not have an established intelligence branch, I want you to establish one."

Elizabeth smiled, relaxing the overall mood. "Will do, Director. It'll be a change, but one I'm looking forward to."

"I would be best for helping establish our infrastructure and economics," Hasina added. "The world economy is going to be shattered when ADVENT is established."

"And I think that Solaris Industries would be an excellent state-sponsored weapons manufacturer," Matthew finished. "ADVENT is going to need the best weapons possible, which I will aim to provide."

"Excellent," Saudia looked to an uncharacteristically silent Zara. "And you?"

"Undecided," she stated flatly. "My soldiers will obviously become part of the ADVENT army, but as for myself…I'm not sure that's where I belong. There are better people to lead an entire military, and my strength is on the battlefield, not in a secured room."

Elizabeth frowned. "I don't see you being a regular soldier. The only place-ah." She trailed off as she got Zara's implication.

Interesting. It appeared Zara had been more impressed with XCOM than she'd let on. "I'll see what I can do," Saudia said.

Zara shook her head. "No, I'll do it myself."

"Very well," Saudia said, turning her attention to the rest of them. "I think it's clear that our purpose has been fulfilled. When ADVENT is established, our goal will be complete. This was admittedly not the way any of us thought it would happen…but it did."

She paused. "Whatever the reasoning, the Commander has given us the world to shape into what we need. Success or failure will not only decide our lives, but the entire future of humanity. Our concern is not just for us now, but the whole world. We must transition as such. As of the establishing of ADVENT, EXALT will be forever disbanded."

"And so it will be," Zara said quietly.

All of them were quiet at that pronouncement. The culmination of centuries of work, accomplished in the unlikeliest of ways. But it had happened. They had done it.

The world was theirs, and now they needed to protect it.

The Praesidium, Alien Containment Cell 1

The transition was coming along very well. As of now the Citadel had been evacuated by all essential staff and all important personnel and components were at the newly christened Praesidium. The new base of XCOM operations, hidden from the world.

He'd considered transferring the name Citadel here, as was tradition for him, but the circumstances were slightly different, as the original base was still going to be used frequently. It would just make things confusing, and he felt it was time to switch things up some. Besides, this gave him the excuse to come up with some other names.

It seemed that when XCOM had originally been conceptualized, there had been some fascination with Latin phrases and words, as Vigilo Confido showed. While he never had much of an interest in the dead language, it did have some excellent words, of which Praesidium was one of.

Defense. That was what the translation said. Fitting, as names went, and it did mark something of a new chapter for XCOM; a new phase in a war that would happen soon. Protection and defense from alien invaders, that was what XCOM had been conceived for. But the priorities were going to shift to defense for the onslaught that was coming.

Naming aside, the former Sectoid base was already prepared for everything he wanted. It was very ironic that the experimentation labs that had held humans were now going to be used on the aliens themselves. Some reconstruction had been necessary, but the original architecture had been kept very much intact.

One of the experimentation rooms had been converted into alien holding cells, a room divided into blocks with each cell controlling temperature, oxygen and constant patient monitoring. All psionic displays converted to be accessible by non-psions. Most of the doors had also been reconfigured similar to the Citadel, automatic sensing without the need for psionic access.

Most, but not all. There were some areas that could only be accessed by certain people.

The door to the holding cells slid open, and the Commander walked through and directly to the first cell on his right. Patricia was already waiting for him, looking through the one-way glass in on their captive, the Runi'baranth'yalsar as he called himself. Patricia was definitely focused on him, although the Commander didn't sense anything from the alien but calm.

"Anything new?" He asked as she turned to face him.

"No, but he is waiting," she answered, shaking her head. "He'll want to know what we did to the others."

"Which you've finished," he said.

She handed him a tablet. "I divided the captives into reliable and unreliable. Despite what he said, not all of them are…cooperative. Some actual believe they could use the opportunity to sabotage us, and others simply despise us." Her lips curled up in amusement at that.

"How many?" He asked, looking over the tablet.

"Seven were designated as such," Patricia answered. "The reliable ones I divided up into sections. Analysis, research, engineering, military."

"And what are your recommendations?" He asked, looking up at her.

She pursed her lips. "I'm wary of utilizing any of them unless we have a way to ensure their loyalty. When I say reliable, I mean they will cooperate for their survival. Not that they won't turn later. I would personally recommend that we utilize them as repositories of information for now, and only allow them to participate in XCOM when Vahlen completes the Manchurian Project."

The Commander nodded, that was more or less what he'd been thinking of. "I agree, although I think allowing one or two might be useful to see how they integrate with the staff. Vahlen would also be heavily monitoring them, and it would be a good test to see just how willing they are."

Patricia raised an eyebrow, curiosity spiking through her. "You want one to work with Vahlen on testing the Manchurian Project with Vitakara?"

"They know their own species best," the Commander said with a smile. "I imagine they won't want to cause unnecessary complications, and may be the motivation they need to give their full cooperation. If they refuse…" he shrugged. "They will be unreliable."

"Fair enough," Patricia nodded. "We might have an issue with the soldiers though. Even the reliable ones won't have much use to use. Instead they will take up unnecessary space."

The Commander nodded as he looked into the cell. "I know. But I think they can be useful for another idea I have."

"Which is?"

"A psionic experiment," the Commander explained. "I want to know just how extensive psionic abilities can change a person-or alien, as the case is here. The Manchurian Program serves a purpose, but it will not change a personality. It is simply a safeguard and insurance policy." He turned to Patricia. "I want the Psionics Division to work on changing the personalities of the soldiers. Make them sympathetic to us, or just modify them enough for a proof of concept. I want to know what it possible before deciding how much to devote to this. Can you do it?"

"I'll get started on some experiments," she answered instantly. "I'll coordinate with Vahlen on this as well. The Fury Fatima we rescued also shows high telepathic ability. I'll be involving her as well."

"And how are the Furies integrating?" The Commander asked. "Are they mostly recovered?"

"Recovered and ready for payback," Patricia said with some amusement. "Whatever the aliens did made whatever happened with EXALT pale in comparison."

"And do you have candidates for new psions?"

"Several," Patricia answered, walking over to slide a finger on his tablet, switching to a new screen. "I'll be approaching them for testing soon."

"Excellent." The Commander lowered the tablet and turned toward the cell. "Let's see what he has to say."

The doors to the alien captives were one such instance of keeping the psionic locks in place. The Commander raised a hand over the console, and put some psionic energy into it, and a few seconds later it slid open soundlessly. The security was still somewhat weak to him, since any psion could walk up and open it, but Shen was taking a look at how to add additional measures. But for now, it was sufficient, as there were no rogue psions he had to worry about.

The Vitakarian looked up as he approached, hands resting on the table, fingers laced together. Five of them, he noted. Interesting how similar in build they were to humans. Although it was entirely possible that had been a genetic modification that hadn't been in the original species. Given the Ethereals interest in genetic modification, as well as the Vitakara, he wouldn't have been surprised if this was one modification they'd created and approved of.

"Hello again, Commander," he said neutrally as the Commander took a seat opposite him while Patricia stood in the back left corner. "I was wondering if you'd forgotten about me."

The Commander raised an eyebrow. "Not forgotten, but things have been…busy, to say the least."

The alien didn't blink his glowing blue eyes as he stared directly at the Commander. "I'd imagine so. If you don't mind, I want to know what you've decided to do with my people."

"Yes," the Commander nodded. "Although before we continue, what would you prefer to be addressed as? Your full name is…long."

"Compared to yours," he muttered. "Although you seem to have some familiarity with our naming convention. But if you want to use titles, my position was Overseer."

Good enough. "Alright, Overseer. We have finished examining your people. Psion Trask," he motioned behind to her. "Determined which of your people were reliable and which were not. Seven were found unreliable and we will be utilizing them. The rest will not be harmed and will eventually be integrated into XCOM with proper means of ensuring loyalty."

The alien betrayed no outward emotion, but he was definitely…resigned. "I see," he said, just as neutrally. "You kept your word, which I can respect. But now…what do you expect from me?"

"Answers to a few questions," the Commander said, resting his hands on the table. "The base you oversaw…what was it for?"

"It was originally designed to be a multipurpose base," he answered. "A backup. It was constructed the same time as the base we are in now. The Sectoids never utilized it much, believing it was unnecessary. However, some time ago we received orders to move here and begin experimentation into the research and development of human psions."

"Why is that necessary?" Patricia interjected. "Determining psionic potential isn't hard. I only was awakened by interacting with an alien console."

"Awakening isn't good enough," the alien answered, shaking his head. "The experiments were to determine how psionics is handled by humans. What part holds it. If that could be isolated, it can be improved or implanted in others. The Furies were…are…the only psions not awakened by traditional methods. EXALT managed to do it, and we wanted to find out how."

The Commander leaned forward. "And did you?"

The Overseer scowled. "Unfortunately, no. We had the information EXALT used to create their drug. But the more we researched it, the more convinced we became that EXALT didn't find a solid way to awaken or create psionics in humans, but that the Furies were only an accidental side effect. A freak response to a drug created by people who had no idea what they were doing."

"You said create," Patricia noted. "You mean that the Furies might not have originally been sensitive?"

"Possibly," the alien stressed. "That's just it. We didn't know. And that was what the experiments with the Furies turned into. If they were even sensitive to begin with. Unfortunately we weren't able to replicate the procedure EXALT used perfectly. All our subjects died. Knowing what EXALT did, I now wonder if they even gave us the right formula to begin with. It would explain a lot."

The Commander was silent for a few moments. "In the event that the Furies weren't originally psionic…what are the implications?"

"Aside from the ability to create an unlimited number of psions?" He asked, almost sarcastically. "It means that psionics isn't genetic. It isn't a gift that only a few can wield. It means that the potential for other species to utilize psionics is possible…"

"Like the Vitakara," the Commander finished slowly. "Tell me, did you report to an Ethereal?"

"No," he shook his head. "Just to my superiors in the Runianarch. But I know that all information is relayed to at least one Ethereal. In fact, I'm pretty sure that's why I had as much staff as I did. After I raised the theory in my report, I suddenly got a lot more resources to work with."

"Question," Patricia said. "If it is determined that psionics can be awakened in anyone, do you really think the Ethereals would allow Vitakara to participate."

"Of course they will," he answered with a shrug. "Why wouldn't they?"

"I agree," the Commander said. "But they will control who would receive it or not. Which means they don't have to worry about potential rogue psions."

"Again, I'm not convinced that this is a cross-species possibility," the Overseer clarified. "It may be a human phenomenon. But it needed further study and research. But I see that you grasp the implications. If that could be determined one way or another…it might change everything."

"That it would," the Commander muttered. One way or another, it warranted some kind of research. Creating an unlimited number of psions would instantly swing the war in favor of one side or another. But it all depended on who discovered it first, provided it was actually possible in the first place.

Which he wasn't convinced of. If psionics could be instilled in any species, he would have thought that the Ethereals would have discovered it by now…unless of course they had never considered the possibility? Or maybe it was a human phenomenon, as the Overseer suggested. Regardless, he was seeing a possible use for this Overseer. Vahlen would like a chat with him.

"Thank you for your cooperation," the Commander said, standing up. "You've given me a lot to think about."

"So what will you do with me?" He asked, leaning back in his chair. "Keep me here? Execute me?"

"Neither," the Commander said, shaking his head. "Keeping you here would be a waste, as would execution. You've cooperated and earned something more suited to your talents. My Head Researcher will be coming to speak with you soon."

The alien's lips twitched. "I see. Then I will be sure to expect her."

"Don't lie to her either," the Commander warned as he exited the room. "She's psionic as well."

"Noted, Commander," he said dryly. "Until next time."

United Nations Headquarters, New York

Abby was actually glad her position here was more…familiar than the last one. Many of the UN officers and security personnel had died in the New York attack. Which was good for her because it opened up a lot of positions.

For instance, it wasn't that difficult for Margaret Bailey, decorated Marine veteran to get an officer position at the UN headquarters. They needed people, and she'd passed the interview and background check with no effort at all. Of course, with Zhang and XCOM Intelligence behind her, that had never been a concern.

Not to mention that they'd been extremely happy to have someone of her experience on the guard. That hadn't even been a lie, she definitely had plenty of experience, just not with fighting humans. But now she had authority over some other guards, as well as officer access which was what she was going to need when the Demeter Contingency was activated.

Abby wasn't exactly clear on what Zhang was planning for the rest of the major UN buildings. He might ignore the one in Kenya, but the ones in Geneva and Vienna would almost certainly be dealt a similar blow. But the most important was the UN headquarters itself. With the world leadership dead, the UN would quickly fall apart and allow room for ADVENT to be quickly established.

Privately, she was worried that people would make the connections quickly and begin asking questions about the timing. Pinning one attack on the aliens was easy, two reasonable. Three might be pushing it a bit too far. Zhang probably realized that as well, which was why she believed that he'd employ a less public option like assassination. Something to place the blame on Zararch agents.

Or maybe he didn't care how it looked. Once ADVENT was established, what people thought didn't really matter. They wouldn't be able to do anything about it, or risk being labeled a traitor or alien sympathizer.

And the world had no tolerance for alien sympathizers.

As for the Council…well, from what Zhang had insinuated, it seemed like the Commander was going to handle that personally.

Considering what she was going to be doing, it was pretty clear what was going to go down. The people here didn't deserve what was coming.

But it was deemed necessary, and she followed her orders. It was what Ruth would have done.

Times like these she wondered if she should feel so normal about it. She was interacting with people multiple times a day that were going to die, some of them by her hand. And yet she'd accepted it. Kept her distance, but not so much they became suspicious. It was the oddest feeling, surrounded by dead men and women walking her. Alive, but with expiration dates.

Provided everything went according to plan, at least. Even she didn't know the full plan here, but she did know her part and who would be working with her.

"So when do you think it will be going down?"

The man she was working with casually leaned against the wall by her. Ciro Hector, someone she suspected was from Mexico, judging by his Hispanic features, dark skin and accent. He reminded her of Kalonymous in terms of personality. A friendly guy who would kill you without hesitation if ordered. Unlike her, he frequently interacted with the people around him, his reasoning being that it gave him more accurate information on how to kill them.

Cold, but practical.

One reason she was being very careful with what she said to him. His methods were unnecessary convoluted as well. There were better ways to carry out mass execution.

"Soon," She answered simply.

He snorted. "Sometimes I wish Zhang would be a little clearer on our timetables. Variables here always keep changing."

"Then don't rely on variables," she said. "Sometimes the best plans are the simplest."

"You have no imagination," he chided. "Being so serious all the time isn't good for your health."

She slowly turned to glare at him. "I'm a surgeon, Ciro. I think I know more about health than you. In fact, I don't think you're taking this seriously enough. Tell me I'm being too serious when your whole team is killed, yeah?"

That shut him up. He at least looked somewhat uncomfortable. "Sorry."

"There's a reason Zhang put me over you," she continued. "Come up with all the unnecessary plans you want, but we're doing this my way. Got it?"

It wasn't a question. He nodded. "I do."

"My shift is now," she said, pushing herself off the wall. "Go mingle, or whatever you do. But remember what our mission is…and what happens if we fail."

He swallowed. "You don't need to remind me."

"Good," she said as she walked away. "That shouldn't have to be necessary."

The Praesidium, Barracks

"This feels weird," Creed commented as they sat together on the couch, pressed against each other. "Nice place, but really alien."

"It was built by the Sectoids," Patricia said, her eyes closed as she rested her head against his shoulders. "I think it's interesting."

"Well, yeah," he conceded. "But still weird."

He did have a point, in a way. It was definitely different to walk down the corridors so clearly designed by aliens, but encounter humans and XCOM tech in every room entered. The Barracks themselves were probably the most normal, being that since the Sectoids didn't really have 'beds' XCOM had installed them instead, as well as other traditional human furniture like couches, and accessories like televisions. It did bring a sense of normalcy, but only if you ignored everything else.

But overall, none of the soldiers around her felt uneasy. Maybe a bit uncertain, like Creed, but optimistic. Content. Some of them had fought to take this very base. Some had lost friends. Terrible things had happened here, things of evil. But in all honesty, going off pure history, the Citadel was just as tainted.

The leaders of XCOM were no paragons of truth, justice or liberty. Maybe that had been the intention, having the men and women of XCOM be heroes to the rest of humanity. A beacon of hope to the disillusioned human forces. And in a way, that had been accomplished. But XCOM had become much more than just a beacon of hope.

It was a power now. An organization that altered the world how it wished. An organization that did whatever it took to achieve victory, no matter the cost. Hundreds of innocent people had died in the fight against the Ethereals, and hundreds more would follow. It was the grim reality that she had accepted ever since accepting the Commander's offer to be a part of his Internal Council.

And there was nothing wrong with that.

It was simply war.

Maybe that was the wrong outlook, but after seeing how much it took to just survive an Ethereal, she didn't see another way this war could be fought. The Commander may have been a war criminal, but in all honesty, all of them were. They were complicit whenever they signed off on XCOM's many illegal and unethical experiments, interrogations or operations.

But they had been necessary. Shen, Van Doorn, Bradford and even Jackson, they might not have liked it, but deep down, she suspected the reason they'd never put up a public fight was because ultimately, there was no objectively better choice.

And it was going to get worse before it got better. The Demeter Contingency would be the end of the beginning and the beginning of the end.

She sighed against Creed. And the man with her had no idea what was coming. The invasion, sure, but not the reformation of the world as he knew it. She did wonder how he'd take everything. ADVENT. EXALT being dissolved. The United Nations being destroyed.

Would he even suspect that she knew about any of this? And if he did… what would he think?

Not that she would ever read his mind without permission, but she would definitely be able to tell what he thought of her. He couldn't exactly lie or play it off. Fortunately, he knew better.

But she still wondered.

ADVENT was the dark foil to the United States the more she thought about it. The result if America had taken a more authoritarian turn, only applied to the scale of the world. As of now she didn't exactly regard that as a bad thing, but Creed…it would be different. He was a proud American, whereas she didn't really have strong ties to England.

It was somewhat funny, looking back on that. She hadn't joined out of patriotism or anything like that. But because she wanted to do something. Make a small difference in the world.

And now she was one of the architects of its reshaping. She would determine the future of psionics in the world, provided they ended up winning, and likely well before that. That amount of responsibly oddly enough didn't deter her at all. She was surrounded by people she trusted with her life. No matter what happened, the people of XCOM would always support each other.

That was only one part of what made them a force to be reckoned with, against aliens or not.

"You're quiet," Creed murmured. "Thoughts?"

"Just reminiscing," Patricia said quietly. "And thinking of the future?"

"And what do you think's in store?"

"Change, war, hope," she answered. "And an alien invasion somewhere in there."

"It's not going to be easy," he said. "But I have a good feeling. We weren't supposed to get this far. But we have, thanks to you and the Commander."

"Hey," she chided. "You've definitely helped."

He chuckled. "I won't dispute that."

They sat in silence for a few minutes, Patricia just listening to his heartbeat. "Whatever happens," Creed said. "I'm glad to fight beside you against it."

Patricia snorted. "You're overly sweet sometimes," she leaned up to give him a quick kiss on the cheek while smiling. "But I'll let it slide because I feel the same way."

Russia, Undisclosed Location

"This will be the temporary headquarters until we officially establish ADVENT," the Commander told her as they entered what essentially amounted to a bunker. "But it's functional and you should be able to do whatever you need."

Saudia nodded. "And knowing you, I assume there is a location in mind for when ADVENT is established?"

"I have some ideas," the Commander admitted with a smile. "But I am not Chancellor. XCOM will definitely have a place here, but you will be making the final decisions."

Ah yes. The reality was settling around her. This was real and she would be leading the world going forward. She'd never really thought this day would come. It was surreal, and yet it didn't quite feel different from directing EXALT. It was only that the organization she was to lead was larger and more…diverse.

She would be dealing with conflicting ideologies here, different people with different beliefs, motivations and more. EXALT had had some internal disputes, but the overall mission and commitment to it had never been in question.

Something she suspected wouldn't be the same here.

But she was prepared for that.

The integration was proceeding…adequately. It was almost too slow by her standards, as well as the Commander's, but it took time to effectively integrate thousands of people without raising too much suspicion. It was going to take some time, and was still ongoing, even if she was getting ready to start making decisions for the organization as a whole.

"How many representatives are here?" She asked, looking around the corridor, wondering who was staying in the bare rooms.

"Several," the Commander answered. "The first assembly will be called, but I felt it best not to be official until it was established. Although if you feel differently…"

"No," Saudia interrupted, shaking a hand. "Perception will be important. The first assembly should be done publically, at least as publically as can be allowed. But I will need to meet with the leaders of the nations." She glanced down at the Commander. "I'm curious. What has been the general reaction to your…announcement?"

"Confusion, mostly," he answered with a smile. "They have no idea who you are. Most, anyways. Several are aware, but they will keep to themselves."

Saudia raised an eyebrow as they turned a corner. "And who are they?"

"That is for them to share," the Commander said, his smile turning cold. "And it isn't important. Lead them well and they won't care who or where you came from. All they know is that you're experienced, competent and neutral. The right person for the job."

Saudia decided to simply accept that and move on. She doubted anyone would oppose the Commander's appointment, especially since this was his idea. But it did mean that she was likely going to have to earn respect here. A challenge she was, oddly enough, looking forward to. It was as much to prove to herself as them that she could do this. The goal of EXALT was to control the world, now she actually had to follow through.

And she did not intend to fail.

Two soldiers walked past, wearing some very familiar armor. Modified from what she'd seen, but it was distinctive. The black armor and helmets of North Koreans. She turned to look at the Commander. "North Korea is supplying our soldiers?"

"Every member nation is," he clarified. "But since North Korean armor is among the more advanced, that is the standard for ADVENT soldiers. They are also continuing to incorporate Russian and Israeli tech into more specialized armor suits."

"Good to know," Saudia nodded. "And any other developments I should be aware of?"

"Your command center will hold that information," the Commander said. "But in terms of bigger military projects, the United States is working on a military robotic prototype, inspired by our own MECs."

She was definitely going to have some catching up to do. But with this much information at her disposal…she was excited. For the first time in a long time, she was genuinely excited for the future. The closest she had come was cautiously optimistic, but nothing beyond that.

A man stood near the end of the corridor, talking with several ADVENT officers. At least she assumed they were officers by their red armor and elaborate helmets. Her lips twitched at that. The helmets were unnecessarily ornate. A redesign would be in order, otherwise it was a waste of resources and they needed every alloy they could to supply an entire army.

The man speaking was clearly someone of importance, and as she got closer, she realized who it was. He noticed her, said something to the soldiers, who formed their right hands into fists and placed them over their chests. "I see they've adopted your salute," she noted quietly. "Interesting."

He snorted. "I suppose. It wasn't my idea, though I approve."

"Greetings," the man said, turning to them. "I presume you are Chancellor Vyandar?"

"Correct," she said, extending a hand to him. "A pleasure to meet you, Supreme Leader."

Iseul Gwan gave a small smile. "Not many would share that opinion, but I appreciate it."

"You're nation is reclusive, and I find that interesting," Saudia said. "Aside from that, I don't have enough information one way or another to judge. I prefer not to rely on propaganda."

"A wise approach," he conceded. "And I hold the same opinion towards you. The Commander clearly believes you will do the job well, so until you show otherwise, I will work with you to combat the alien threat and build our world into the bastion that is required."

Well, the Supreme Leader really did seem as practical as she'd heard. Not what she'd expected, but provided he was being genuine, she could see him being a useful asset. Or a problem, depending on how much he knew. Even from her limited knowledge, she knew he was similar to the Commander in terms of intelligence and danger, and his friendliness definitely made it seem like he had ulterior motives.

If there was one person who the Commander had probably told about her identity, it was probably him, because he would be smart enough to actually do something with it.

It would be interesting to see how well they worked together. "I'm glad you agree," she finally said, inclining her head. "The world needs to be united as one now more than ever."

"I believe it will be," he said. "How that happens though…well, that has yet to be determined." He smiled. "I look forward to working with you, Chancellor."

He didn't salute, but did incline his head before walking off. Saudia stared off after him, analyzing him as he left. "Iseul is blunt, but he probably takes the aliens as seriously as us," the Commander said. "But I suspect you know to be careful with him. He knows how to use people and is very good at getting his way."

"And I thought you were friends," she commented as they kept walking. "He seems to be the type that would get along with you."

"I suppose we are, in a way," the Commander admitted. "And we do share similar opinions on a range of topics. Which is precisely the reason I'm wary of him. He's an excellent leader, but one you don't want as an enemy."

So it seemed the Commander didn't entirely trust him either. Although as she thought about it, that didn't mean much. She was under no illusions that he trusted her, but was still willing to put her in charge of ADVENT. He definitely viewed people in terms of usability and reliability, rather than simply trust, and the amount of people he did trust was likely very small.

"Are there any more reports of alien activity?" She asked after a few seconds as they walked. "Any planned retaliation moves?"

"No," the Commander pursed his lips. "Even if we did deal a blow, the lack of response is concerning. Which unfortunately indicates that they're planning for a major attack. Possibly the invasion itself."

"We're not ready," she stated flatly.

"No," he agreed. "We're not. But we may not be getting a choice here."

On that happy note she saw the next major player of ADVENT, and wasn't at all surprised to see him, considering this was his nation. "President Savvin," she greeted. "A pleasure to meet you."

The older man turned and appraised her far more critically than Iseul. "Chancellor. I hope that you perform as well as the Commander said. It's one thing to have a leader I don't agree with, and another thing to have one I know nothing about."

Well, she could take several approaches with that statement. Fortunately she was definitely more familiar with the good president than with Iseul. She could handle him. She met his stare. "I have experience with the aliens and how to combat them, Mr. President," she answered calmly. "I am not a rookie, and have handled more complex operations than this."

He raised an eyebrow. "More complicated than running the world?"

"Running the world is a matter of efficiency and resource management," she responded. "It is complex as we make it. Governing a population is not as complicated as you seem to believe, and ADVENT will serve to protect and defend humanity, of which I am fully capable of doing."

He seemed to be wavering a bit, but still wasn't convinced. "I govern a nation, Chancellor, and that doesn't change the fact that I don't know anything about you. No official records of any kind."

She fixed him with a piercing stare, which had more effect since she was taller than him. "Mr. President, if you knew who I was, I would not be doing my job."

"Is that right?" He looked to the Commander. "An intelligence director is an interesting pick, though I'm not convinced it's the right one."

The Commander simply smiled. "She is more than a simple intelligence director, Savvin. Chancellor Vyandar will accomplish exactly what we need."

Savvin frowned, but was definitely more reserved. "That remains to be seen, Chancellor, but I will do my best to assist in the fight against the aliens. Farewell."

He turned away and strode off. Saudia shook her head and they proceeded forward. "Friendly bunch."

"Would you have preferred I tell them who you really are?" The Commander asked. "Do you think that will make them trust you more? Do a good job and you won't have to worry about them. You've supposedly worked for this your whole life. Prove it."

He had a point, and it would be ridiculous to expect them to unconditionally trust her, especially when viewed from their perspective. As long as they worked with her, she was certain things would work out. But if they obstructed her…there would be issues she would deal with.

"Here we are," the Commander said, stopping in front of a slightly larger door. "ADVENT Central Command. The temporary version, of course."

The door slid open and Saudia stepped inside.

The room was empty, allowing her to see the control center for the world. The walls had computers, monitors and analytical equipment along them, with plenty of room for analysts and technicians to sit and monitor essential information. On the far wall were several interconnected screens displaying a map of the world, which she immediately noted could be broken down by population, military size and political affiliation.

In the middle was a holotable setup, with a glowing red hologlobe at the end, similar to the one at the Bastion. A little bit of home, even if it was accidental. "I'll leave you to look around," the Commander said, turning around. "I'll be leaving soon, but you have what you need to get started, and the people will help. ADVENT is in your hands now, Chancellor. Good luck."

She inclined her head. "You as well, Commander…and thank you."

He didn't respond, but smiled and left the room.

All alone, silent except for the humming of the computers, she walked up to the hologlobe, looking up at it almost in childlike wonder. She let her hand graze over the shining steel base, trying not to scuff it. This was it, the dream, what EXALT had always wanted, accomplished. Once things calmed down…she'd have to visit father. See him one last time, so he knew beyond all doubt that they'd done it, despite what had happened.

They had almost been destroyed.

They had almost lost.

But they hadn't.

Against the growing odds, they'd done it.

She, Director Saudia Vyandar was now Chancellor of ADVENT.

Shaping the future of the world.

"We did it, father," she murmured as she gazed up at the hologlobe. "We won."

The Praesidium, Situation Room

Time to begin putting the final pieces in motion. Some time had passed and everyone was hard at work preparing for the coming war while the aliens were still quiet. Saudia was making the rounds to the various member nations and it seemed to be going well so far. He knew that she'd already firmly established ADVENT Engineering and R&D divisions which were already hard at work.

ADVENT Intelligence had also been created, and Zhang was already in communication with them, especially as they drew closer to Demeter. The military was a bit harder, since the logistics of everything made it difficult to organize without drawing suspicion. But nearly everything was in place, all that was needed was official unification and the divisions could be officially formed.

To the Commander's surprise, it seemed like the military wasn't being run by Zara, but by another Venator as well as a combination of current military officials. Which was fine by him, it showed that Saudia wasn't just looking to use only EXALT personnel in prominent positions. Of course, it could just be to placate him, but he didn't believe that would be her biggest concern now.

But as for Zara…he'd actually received a very interesting request from her. One he'd have to think about carefully.

The door hissed open behind him and Jackson came through, right on time. The new Situation Room had been converted to a similar one to the Citadel, although the computers were now equipped with alien tech which had made everything much faster. The holotable was larger, though still sat in the middle of the room and it had the capability to expand holographic projection throughout the entire room.

The Ethereals definitely liked their holograms.

He wasn't complaining.

"It's set up?" He asked.

"Ready and waiting," she answered with a grim nod. "Let's get this started."

The Commander turned to the screens at the back of the room and watched as they flashed and finally revealed the Speaker as unchanged as ever. "Commander," he greeted, inclining his head. "It is…good…to hear from you. Much appears to have changed since we last communicated."

"Indeed," The Commander agreed, clasping his hands behind his back while Jackson stood off to the side. "We have been busy while preparing for the aliens as well as discussions on how to handle Brazil and Israel."

"The Council would like to remind you that interference is outside your jurisdiction," the Speaker said. "Discussions are being had."

"Make up your mind," the Commander chided. "And no, it's completely within our jurisdiction. Both are allied with XCOM and we don't want the war to get worse than it already is. I'm sure we can at least agree on that."

"That we can," the Speaker affirmed. "One war is troubling, let alone two. There are…bigger…issues to worry about."

"I'm glad you see it that way," the Commander said. "Which is why I think it's time we discussed the future of XCOM. In person."

The Speaker seemed surprised. "Before the Council?"

"The Council, and the United Nations at large," the Commander confirmed. "The Commander of XCOM should not be a hidden figure once the war begins. We need to prepare now, before the aliens truly invade. Before the Council we can discuss more sensitive matters, but the United Nations will be more reassuring for the people."

"After everything I find it hard to believe you want to involve the United Nations in anything," the Speaker commented skeptically. "Let alone the Council."

"Mostly because I feel there is no choice," the Commander stated. "Like it or not, the UN is one organization who can make a difference. They have a role to play, as does the Council. I don't throw away resources without reason, and quite frankly, this is bigger than my opinion on them."

"The Council is…pleased…to hear that," the Speaker said slowly. "Although if you do appear before us, the Councilors will have…questions…on your recent actions. And requests as to how to handle the future of XCOM."

"And I will answer them," the Commander promised smiling. "Though you might not like the answers."

"Remember that it will not just be to us," the Speaker warned. "You will be before the whole world. Not everyone will be comfortable with a powerful independent military, even one devoted to our protection. There was a reason that the Council is primarily in charge of XCOM, because not everyone would approve of such an endeavor."

"Don't worry," the Commander assured him. "They will be handled."

"We shall see," the Speaker said, lacing his fingers together. "It has also come to our attention that the majority of XCOM has…moved…to a location that has not been disclosed to us. The Council would like to know where XCOM is currently located."

"Not here," the Commander rejected. "That is something to say in person. The aliens found us thanks to a mole, and I don't want that to happen again. Only the Council should know the location and I won't jeopardize it even through secure channels. But we are as prepared as ever, and working with the United States in keeping the Citadel established."

"I see," the Speaker answered. "Then it appears you should come sooner than later. The Council will be in contact with your Central Officer to establish times."

"Excellent," the Commander said. "I look forward to it."

"As do we, Commander," he answered. "Until then. We will be watching."

Not for much longer. He thought as the screen flashed off. Your watch will soon be ending.

"And there it goes," Jackson said wistfully. "With the Council welcoming their death openly."

"Well, I wasn't going to tell them the real reason," he said. "Or do you think that would have worked?"

She sighed. "No, I…well, it seems so anticlimactic. I get why they wouldn't expect it, but it seems too easy."

"Relatively," the Commander agreed, turning to the holotable. "But compared to what we've dealt with, it's not a major concern. But it is an obstacle to be removed."

"And ADVENT to be created in its place," she nodded. "I really hope things work out how you plan."

He gave her a wry grin. "I doubt it will work out completely, but I'm confident that things will mostly go according to plan."

"Your definition of victory still seems odd," she muttered, appraising him curiously. "It ends with EXALT essentially with control of the world. Shackled to the Directive, sure, but even that is mostly in line with their philosophy. EXALT won, and it was…because you allowed them to. When did you decide that was the best idea?"

The Commander waited a few seconds before answering. "Because it was the only way to truly ensure EXALT never rises again. I knew EXALT was going to never go away if I kept attacking them. Shadow organizations can't be defeated traditionally. They have plans, contingencies, they scatter and reform. Not what I would call a victory."

He began pacing as he continued. "As long as EXALT was in the shadows, they would be as invincible as one. Disappearing, but always returning when the opportunity came. They needed to not only be exposed, they had to expose themselves willingly. That doesn't happen in response to threats, imprisonment or execution. It only drives them back underground."

He stopped and looked directly at Jackson. "But in the end, there is a remarkably simple way to ensure organizations like EXALT never rise again, and how to control them."

"And what way is that?"

The Commander smiled. "You give them exactly what they want."

Supplementary Material

The Demeter Contingency

(RESTRICTED TO INTERNAL COUNCIL)

OVERVIEW: In the event that the Council, the United Nations (UN), or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) becomes a hindrance or threat to the stability of XCOM or the world, they are to be removed, crippled or neutralized in a quick and efficient manner so not to destabilize the global balance as much as otherwise.

UPDATE: The Advent Directive has been initialized. The Demeter Contingency is authorized for usage.

PHASE 1: PREPARATION

1. THE UNITED NATIONS: In preparation for the initialization of the Demeter Contingency, XCOM will place agents within various United Nations locations across the globe, primarily focusing on the following:

a. The Headquarters of the United Nations – New York City

b. The United Nations Office at Geneva – Switzerland

c. The United Nations Office at Vienna – Austria

d. The United Nations Office at Nairobi – Kenya

The infiltrations will be overseen by Intelligence Director Zhang and the Commander of XCOM to ensure maximum effect. Infiltrations will be within various states within the locations, from high-level officers to custodians to ensure a complete and successful infiltration.

Upon activation of the Demeter Contingency, XCOM will ensure that the United Nations convenes into a full assembly, ensuring that the majority of the United Nations ambassadors and staff is in attendance.

2. THE COUNCIL: The Commander of XCOM will request a meeting with the Council in person, allowing access to the Councilors themselves. No infiltration will be necessary, though a team of operatives will accompany the Commander to his destination.

3. NATO: Unlike the Council and United Nations, efforts will be made to integrate NATO into the replacement world government, and as such any plans will go into effect if NATO becomes an unstable element after the removal of the United Nations.

In preparation for that event, key figures in NATO will be located, and based on psychological profiling, will be marked for potential assassination to limit potential action. The psychological profiling will take into account previous actions, race, gender, nation, political leaning and affiliation and previous military service.

4. REPLACEMENT: Please note that without a sufficient replacement for the United Nations, the Demeter Contingency is unable to go into effect. This replacement must be prepared to be established soon after the Demeter Contingency going into effect, otherwise it will not be allowed to be initialized.

Note: Fulfilled under the Advent Directive

PHASE 2: EXECUTION

1. THE UNITED NATIONS: Upon activation, agents placed within the designated locations will lock down the building, as will assistance by various XCOM personnel and allies, systematically execute essential United Nations personnel and ambassadors. The exact means of which will be determined by XCOM Intelligence and the Commander, as well as communication from allied forces.

Upon the removal, alien technology, blood and materials will be planted through the scene to firmly establish the guilty party and rally the general populace against the alien threat. Vitakara corpses kept in storage will be sown throughout the carnage, and alien DNA will be implanted on various ranking members to give the illusion of alien infiltration.

After that is accomplished, teams will move to plant explosives at various weak points of the building and after evacuating, detonate them and collapse the building.

Note: The Commander or Intelligence Director Zhang has the authority to call off attacks at specific locations. Only the United Nations Headquarters is exempted from this note.

2. THE COUNCIL: Upon activation, the Commander and a small team will travel to the Council Headquarters and set up at strategic points. Upon a signal from the Commander, the team will remove existing personnel within the building with no exceptions. The Commander will dispose of the Council.

Note: The location is not to be intentionally damaged, and will be reallocated for use within ADVENT. All bodies are to be disposed of.

3. NATO: Upon activation, and approval from the Commander, the marked targets within NATO will be systematically executed in accordance with the current situation. In the event that NATO orders retaliation on one or more parties, assassinations will continue, utilizing known alien weapons, equipment and tech.

In the event that this is not enough, XCOM Intelligence operatives disguised as Vitakara will infiltrate the NATO Headquarters and execute specific individuals who will be determined by Intelligence Director Zhang. This phase of the Demeter Contingency is only able to be authorized by the Commander of XCOM

ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW WORLD GOVERNMENT: Upon successful completion of the Demeter Contingency, XCOM will immediately move into officially establishing ADVENT together with the member nations, highlighting the alien attacks and rallying the general population against the alien threat. Upon establishment, the United Nations will be officially dissolved and all investigations will be blocked without compelling evidence to suggest fraud.

Note: In the event that becomes a concern, said witness or investigation will be sent to Psionics Overseer Patricia Trask for evaluation of new evidence. Insufficient proof will be dismissed, and repeated offences will lead to prosecution.

ACTIVATION: The Demeter Contingency can only be activated with the approval of 75% of the Internal Council, in attrition to the established prerequisites. Only the Commander of XCOM has the authority to activate the Demeter Contingency.