League of Legends: FALLOUT

by FakeDaVinci

Three Wasteland Legends will meet each other, either by faith or destiny, and travel together on a new road to the unknown where they somehow end up in a new world within a new realm. The new world of RuneTerra. Its inhabitants will meet and learn from the three Wanderers about these famous words. War, War Never Changes.

5. The Second TSC-Brotherhood War Begins

Chapter 5 The Second TSC-Brotherhood War Begins

…

October 23, 2290

Washington D.C., United States of America

Back on Earth, it was now 6:00 p.m. in the evening in the East Coast of North America with the sun setting in the west. The capital city of the United States was calm and silent. No music, laughter, or talks were heard. Not even the scheduled fireworks were lighting up the darkened skies to end the day of fun. The entire memorial festivity was completely cancelled due to the surprise attack.

Civilians were evacuated and are informed to go back home and remain indoors until further notice. Other civilians and tourists were escorted to nearby bus and train stations to take them back to their homes that are within different cities or states in the United States. The children were distraught and disappointed with the fireworks cancelled but were mostly scared due to the air battle they witnessed above the capital skyline. Parents hugged their children close to their sides and held their hands in comfort with most carrying the younger ones in their arms and held close to their chest in fear of another attack.

Merchants were quickly packing up their stalls and left-over wares along with whatever profits they made in US dollars, TSC credits, or bottlecaps before heading out of the city on their Brahmins, horse-pulled wagons, or semi-truck rigs. They were angry and upset for losing the opportunity to make more profits in selling their products during the firework show since it was cancelled. But they are able to overlook their loss due to their concern of a possible second attack. This kind of fear is what is leading the merchants to pack-up quickly to get out of the city and head back to their homes, business headquarters, or private warehouses before the city becomes a possible warzone.

Airlines were cancelled to prevent any interference with the TSC's constant scanning of the entire U.S. airspace for any more possible enemy fighters. Plus, there are multiple patrols of Valkyrie and Deluxe Stingray squadrons all over the U.S. airspace searching for any more unfriendly fighters.

TSC soldiers and marines are patrolling the streets and highways on their Stryker APCs, Bradley IFVs, and Humvees while setting up roadblocks and checkpoints. TSC Zeta Drones, Robots, and Securitrons assisted with the patrols and checkpoints along with some Super Mutants and Intelligent Deathclaws. Vertibirds and Vertibots (Fallout 76) continuously flew over the city and nearby residential districts, including outskirt towns of MegaVault, Bethesda, Big Town, Canterbury Commons, Tenpenny Town (Tenpenny Tower with surrounding residential buildings, businesses, the Metro, and the RobCo factory becoming part of the town inside a reinforced concrete wall like MegaVault), Risen Paradise (former Paradise Fall), Germantown, Old Olney, and Fairfax. Military checkpoints were set up around the I-495, roads that enter or leave the city, and within the city streets.

Most of the TSC and Minutemen military activities were happening at the Mall with multiple large tents serving as barracks and logistics and a large 2-story Command and Control building quickly assembled with parts of military black office pods placed between the Washington Monument and the Reflection Pool. Mammoth tanks, Patton tanks, Chimera tanks, Stryker APCs, Bradley IFVs, Utility Trucks, and Humvees were parked on the grass areas between the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building and placed within or near assembled Motor Pools made up of large canopies and tents. There were also energy sentry turrets and surface-to-air missile launcher turrets placed strategically on rooftops and streets around the Mall FOB for air defense. Assembled defense walls and lookout towers were placed strategically around the Mall FOB to tighten security with TSC and Minutemen soldiers and snipers patrolling the area along with TSC Zeta drones, Securitrons, Mr. Gutsies, and Sentry Bots. Cargobots (Fallout 76) flew in the area to drop off supplies and cargos in the Mall from nearby TSC bases, storehouses, and warehouses. As of now, the Mall was closed down to all civilians and residents until further notice. Washington D.C. is hereby under lockdown.

The entire nation was on high alert. Military personals, both TSC and Minutemen, that were on off duty to celebrate the holiday were called back into duty immediately. Units patrolling the Wall along the borders are mobilized and on alert for any more attacks. Radios and TVs were broadcasting the news with newspaper companies putting their printing presses on full power to print as much of the papers as possible before sending them all over the country by truck, eyebots, or cargobots to alert the population of the surprise attack.

This sudden event has led families and friends to end their festivities early and gather together in their homes and watch, read, or listen to the news with anxiety and fear on what is happening. TSC and Minutemen soldiers remain vigilante but are also worried since they can feel it in their guts on what is about to happen. The feeling that a new major conflict is about to start with more blood to be spilled in the battlefields once more. The very famous words were spoken in their heads: "war, war never changes".

…

October 23, 2290

The Olympus, TSC Starship Council Chamber, Orbiting the Earth

The sneak attack had caught everyone off guard. As of now, an emergency council meeting is immediately set up with all members of the TSC Starship Council required to attend. The delegates and President Truman of the Third Continental Congress were also attending the meeting in the TSC Starship Council Chamber after they were evacuated from Washington D.C. Their families have immediately been extracted and evacuated to the TSC capital city, Posiedonis, the underwater city in the Pacific Ocean, for protection and to ensure the continuation of the U.S. Government.

Vice Admiral Harkin, also known as the 'Greyhound' during his Enclave service years, marched through the metal corridor heading towards the Council Chamber with two Black Guards following him as his protective guards. Black Guards standing along the corridor walls snapped to a salute as he walked by but Harkin didn't acknowledge since he was fast marching in a hurry making loud step noises with his boots on the metal floor. His expression was hardened with mixture of anger, surprise, and worry.

The Vice Admiral hardly aged over the years during his service in the TSC when it was first formed. His Caucasian skin shows no signs of wrinkles or other physical signs of old age except for his grey stubble beard on his chin and his grey hair kept in a military standard buzz cut. All thanks to the TSC's medical research in implants and vaccines that kept Harkin physically fit and healthy despite his age of 55. He was currently wearing a black commander's coat in which is unbuttoned to show his black TSC officer uniform underneath while the back tails of the coat billowed like a cape as Harkin continued his fast march. The coat had 3 stars on its shoulder patches with another 3 stars on the collar of his officer uniform signifying his rank. The golden TSC symbol was on the right chest side of his uniform with 3 stars underneath the symbol. His headwear changed from an officer's black cap to a peaked cap with the TSC insignia in which is similar to Dante's. Encasing his clenched hands were leather black gloves to complete his outfit.

Once he reached the slide door to the chamber, the two Black Guards guarding the entrance stood at attention before the entrance slid open. Harkin immediately marched into the chamber leaving his two escorting Black Guards outside.

The TSC Starship Council Chamber hardly changed over the years except for some additional alien Zeta seats for the delegates and President Truman whom are currently sitting around in a circular pattern surrounding the main council chairs that are facing the main hologram projector in the center of the room. More seats have been added for the leaders of the Minutemen, the Followers of the Apocalypse, the Railroad, and the Institute to be able to attend the emergency meeting. Around the metal walls were advance visual displays acting as large windows to view the outer space filled with stars, the nearby surface of the nearly restored Earth the Olympus is currently orbiting, and occasionally the Lunar moon can sometimes be seen. The floor also had visual displays that it almost looked like a glass floor where everyone can gaze downwards at the Earth and outer space. Right now the council chamber was filled with murmurs and whispers with everyone talking to each other about the surprise attack as they waited for the last members to arrive.

The leaders and VIPs currently in the council chamber besides the delegates and Truman are Minutemen Lieutenant General Preston Garvey (Nate's second-in-command), Minutemen Major General Ronnie Shaw (Commander of the Minutemen Artillery and Armored Units), Colonel Judah Kreger (former Enclave captain of the Devil's Brigade now Theo's second-in-command of the Securitron Army and New Vegas forces), Institute Director Madison Li, Institute Deputy Director Zimmer, Railroad President Desdemona, Railroad Vice-President Stanley Carrington, Followers of the Apocalypse President Julie Farkas, and Followers Vice-President Ignacio Rivas.

The rest were the main members of the TSC Starship Council whom have been members of the inner circle since the founding of the organization. The members include SIA Director Archangel Schmidt, Civilian Affairs Head Coordinator Ayumi Tanaka, Director of the Science Department Dr. Nylus, Director of the Biology Department Dr. Nadia, Director of the Economy and Industry Department Robert E. House, TSC Army General Karpov (4-star-general), TSC Air Force General Mallore, and Harkin as the TSC Vice-Admiral and second-in-command of the TSC. The only members missing in this meeting are the three famous wanderers whom are now leaders of their respective factions. Their seats next to Preston Garvey, Mr. House, and Harkin left empty.

Once the last members and Vice Admiral Harkin took their seats, Harkin started the meeting immediately.

"Everyone is here? Good. Now, can someone in this room tell me…. How the hell did this happen at the Mall in Washington D.C. during a national holiday?! Also, why aren't we able to locate the Retribution?! We need to know if our Supreme Commander and the other two generals are alive!" shouted Harkin as he was angry on the current situation.

"Calm yourself, Vice Admiral Harkin," stated the known calm Director of the TSC Intelligence Division now renamed as the Seraphim Intelligence Agency (SIA), Archangel Schmidt.

"We somehow have been caught off guard by this attack due to the unknown's enemy ability to conceal those advance fighters since my division had no intel concerning those pre-war planes. However, I have just received intel reports from my Seraph agents within the Midwest and in D.C. that are related to this attack"

Archangel Schmidt was the same mysterious but loyal man of the TSC. He was Caucasian with short, brown hair that is combed back. He is wearing non-frame glasses that always made him look intelligent and secretive like any spy agents. His current apparels are a black suit with a black tie with a black trench worn coat over his suit in which the coat is currently buttoned and secured with the coat's belt. On his right chest is a golden insignia pin of the TSC symbol with the 'Eye of Providence' placed on top as a symbol of the TSC's SIA. Instead of black military boots, he is wearing black men dress shoes as his foot wear. On his head is a black fedora to finish his look as a pre-war 'spook'.

"Well then, let's have it. You have the floor, Archangel," replied Harkin whom managed to calm himself but is still worried and frustrated over the sudden absent of their three commanders.

Archangel Schmidt tapped the holographic panel in front of his chair and the central holographic image of the TSC symbol changed to pictures and videos of unknown people in civilian apparel being secretly captured around D.C. alleyways, streets, and apartments by Schmidt's Seraph agents through cloaking and teleportation. More videos showed the interrogation on these captured suspects involving mostly mind probe techniques than physical torture by using the pre-war Mesmetron devices in which are upgraded with Zeta technology. The Mesmetron was pre-war spy technology to probe enemy spies of valuable intel through an artificial sonic wave that puts them through a state of hypnosis. It was recovered by Dante Abram from a Slaver named Grouse through the use of his natural charisma to "barter" (swindle) Grouse in an "agreement" that Dante would use the Mesmetron to put any Raiders or Wastelanders under a hypnotic daze before placing a bomb collar on the captured "prey" to send them to Paradise Falls as new slaves. Knowing the Lone Wanderer, he just wanted the unique tech while avoiding practicing something sinful like slavery and make sure it was secured before eradicating the slavers of Paradise Fall. Since the TSC's formation, Dante gave the device to Schmidt to put it to good use for quick and easy intel extractions in an unlethal method as possible.

"As you can see, the eyebots from my SIA have manage to detect these suspicious individuals inside our capital whom are not recognized citizens or immigrants in the Civilian Affair's mainframe records. Once we have seized all of these suspects and place them under the Mesmetron's sonic hypnosis, my Seraphs have obtained a gold mine of valuable intel involving the attack and whom our enemies are," replied Archangel Schmidt as everyone in room were surprised to see that a total of 38 of these unknown people were captured and are confirmed by Schmidt to be spies even though he didn't say it.

"So whom are the ones responsible for this unexpected aggression? We need to prepare for any more possible attacks on our country," replied General Karpov, Commander of the TSC Ground Forces consisting of the TSC Army, Marines, Thunderfists, Power Armor units, and Black Guards. The man was not only a battle-hardened veteran commander during his years in the Enclave and the TSC but also a hardcore soldier in ground infantry battles with his own share of kills and bloodshed of his enemies such as Brotherhood Knights or Paladins, Super Mutants, Raiders, and Wasteland mutant animals like deathclaws or yao guai.

Like Harkin, Karpov's outfit changed from the TSC officer outfit into a black TSC version of the pre-war LAS-009 U.S. Army General overcoat similar to Theo West's overcoat but with 4 silver stars on the shoulders patches and collars. However, Karpov still kept the black TSC officer cap as his headwear in which now has 4 silver stars underneath the TSC insignia on the front. Underneath his signature eyepatch, his right eye that he lost during his Enclave service was replaced with a TSC cybernetic eye implant to grant him quick target locks on his enemies for quick kills, scan objects and living beings, and magnify his eyesight.

Karpov's voice was calm but contained a hard tone since he was surprised of the attack and wants to immediately mobilize all available forces to fight this new enemy.

"Patience, General Karpov. As I was saying, after interrogating these spies in D.C., my Agency contacted our Seraphs within the Midwest to confirm if any jet fighters were flying within the region where they are conducting their operations. Those agents have sent confirmation reports of unknown jet fighters that match the ones that attacked the starships flying from a pre-war military base in the Old State of Colorado known as the Peterson Air Force Base near the city ruins of Colorado Springs. In which we are all aware is right next to the Cheyenne Mountain where NORAD was located before it was reconstructed into Vault 0 and is currently the headquarters of…. the Midwest Brotherhood of Steel," stated Archangel Schmidt calmly with his eyes narrowing as he pushed up his eyeglasses with his right middle finger in which caused the blue holographic light to reflect from his glass lens hiding his eyes.

The Council room was silent as everyone stared at Archangel with widen eyes trying to process what the spook man just said.

"WHAT?! Those damn arrogant, neo-knightly, tin can, techno hoarders are responsible for this?!" cried one of the male delegates of Congress.

"This is an act of war!" yelled a female delegate with rage.

Shouts of anger and shock filled the Council chamber until Harkin stood up.

"SILENCE! ALL OF YOU!" shouted the Vice Admiral whom manage to make his voice loud enough for everyone to hear despite his old age. He sat back down once the room was quiet.

"Archangel Schmidt. If what you say is true, then these suspects are spies from the Brotherhood's Circle of Steel and this attack is no doubt an act of war. Is the Brotherhood mobilizing its forces towards our borders?" demanded Harkin.

With a heavy sigh, Archangel tapped onto his chair's holographic pad. The central hologram changed into multiple screens of the Midwest Brotherhood forces that are being recorded by cloaked SIA Eyebots. What everyone was seeing has answered Harkin's question.

One screen showed a long column of Brotherhood Knights and Paladins marching in order in their respective power armors based on their ranks. The area the column was marching in looked like an airfield of a rebuilt pre-war military air base somewhere in the Wastelands of Kansas. They can see them loading themselves onto pre-war military utility trucks, Vertibirds, and APCs.

According to their intel, higher ranking Brotherhood members wore the power armors while the Initiates and Aspirants wore the highly advanced combat armors. For the non-commissioned officers the T-45a's to d's go to the Junior Knights, T-45e's to f's are worn by the Knights, Knight-Sergeants wear the T-51a and T-51b, Knight-Captains have the T-51c and T-51d, and T-51e's and f's go to the Knight-Commanders. The T-60s are given to the officers whom are ranked Junior Paladin, Paladin, Paladin-Commander, and Star Paladin. The rare and modified armors such as the X-01 power armors and the unique modified ones are reserved as rewards for those promoted to the rank of Sentinel or General. Finally, the Elders and High Elders have their own personal, modified power armors like the unique Tesla Armor (Midwest Brotherhood version).

There were 3 screens showing some well-known elite squads of veteran Brotherhood Paladins and Knights. These are the hard-lined warriors whom have forged their own reputation and fame throughout their years of fighting their own battlefields of lasers, plasma, bullets, mini-nukes, and blood.

One particular squad whom are wearing modified power armors that made them stand out among the elites caught everyone's interest. Their power armor had metal plates on the stomach that are shaped into six pack abs with sphere shaped shoulder pads that have the Midwest Brotherhood insignia on them. Their helmets have horns on the sides with a demonic face and glowing yellow eyes that made them very intimidating. But what made this squad most noticeable was the tattered black cape wrapped around their right shoulder with a chain going around the left shoulder and holding the fabric at the back. The tattered cape had a unique white insignia of the Midwest Brotherhood but with the cogs and the sword in the center of the winged circle replaced with a demonic skull of their power armor helmet. They were the legendary Warrior Squad and are named after the famous Brotherhood Warrior himself.

It was rumored that some of the Warrior squad members are descendants of the Warrior's old squad members whom the Warrior himself led through many deadly battles until their great victory of defeating the Calculator and claiming Vault 0 as the Midwest Brotherhood's new HQ. There are about 25 to 30 members in this squad and only the deadliest among the deadliest knights and paladins are chosen to become a member of Warrior Squad. They were currently standing at attention in a desert field outside a bunker with their plasma rifles, laser rifles, gauss rifles, and other energy weapons shouldered. Everyone can see that the elite squad members are on standby but are obviously ready for the fight.

Another screen showed columns of vehicles rolling out of their bunkers and motor pools from pre-war military bases. One column consisted of their heavy tanks, named by the Brotherhood as the Elephant Tanks, in which have similar design as the TSC Mammoth Tank but with no Zeta tech upgrades. Another column was their standard medium tanks designed like the Patton M-60 tank, now renamed as the Steed Tank. Their Brotherhood tank commanders in Brotherhood officer fatigues (Fallout 4 Brotherhood fatigues) with an officer cap were standing at attention through the tank hatches while saluting as they drove their tanks across the military base. There are also columns of salvaged pre-war Bradley APCs (renamed the Brahmin APC) and Stryker IFVs (renamed the Stag IFV) that were restored into working conditions looking brand new. The vehicles were parking in front of rows of standby Knights, Paladins, Aspirants, and Initiates with their back loading ramps opening in preparation for loading up the Brotherhood soldiers. Finally, there are rows of pre-war military utility trucks being loaded up with metal crates of weapons, ammo, and logistic supplies while multiple pre-war military Humvees speed alongside the columns and rows with the Sentinels and Generals riding within said vehicles whom are obviously inspecting the "war preparations".

However, four final screens caught most of everyone's attention. Two screens were showing a huge columns of the Calculator robots, Super Mutants, Ghouls, and Intelligent Deathclaws marching on the old remains of a pre-war interstate highway with Brotherhood Knights and Paladins marching alongside the mechanical monstrosities. Some of the soldiers were also riding on some of Calculator robots such as the giant, four-legged walking Behemoths and the Pacification robots. The rest of the Calculator robots marching within the columns are Humanoid Robots, the Security Robots, the Hover Robots, the Scurry Robots, the Loadlifter Robots, and the Tank Track Robots. The final two screens were showing in which brought everyone in the room to stare at the images in disbelief.

Air Force General Mallore, in shock despite years of being a discipline commander, was the first to try to speak, "A-Ar-Archangel Schmidt…..a-are those….w-w-what I think…..t-they are s-suppose….to be?"

Even the military leaders such as Harkin, Karpov, Augustus Autumn, Preston Garvey, and Rossie Shaw had their eyes widen with their mouths agape in shock. Archangel Schimdt could only nod his head in confirmation before responding.

"Indeed, General Mallore. Those are the Brotherhood's seven airships, built with parts manufactured from recycled scrapped materials, steel alloy assemblies casted from refined iron ore, and powered with pre-war fusion reactors. Each are confirmed to be nearly the size of a naval aircraft carrier with the capabilities to carry a division size of Brotherhood ground forces and multiple Vertibirds and VTOL modified Stingray fighters."

The screen showing the Brotherhood airships on a huge runway of a pre-war military airfield base are being loaded up with Brotherhood Knights, Paladins, Robots, Ghouls, Super Mutants, and Deathclaws walking up the ramps and into the hangars. Vertibirds and Deluxe Stingray fighters are also seen being loaded and secured into the hangars totaling about 12 Vertibirds and 18 Stingray fighters for each airship.

The airships themselves are different from the previous airships used by the Brotherhood when they formed the expedition units and build the airships in 2188 and launched in 2195 to hunt down the remains of the Master's Super Mutant Army in the East. The old airships, three in the 2188 expedition fleet, were designed like the zeppelins used in World War I with no armored protection with four smaller zeppelins mounted with large rockets connected to airships like cables to provide movement and speed for the airships. By then, all three of the airships were struck down in a great storm by lightning bolts that destroyed one airship and the other to crash near a settlement known as Osceolla. The command airship managed to remain aloft for a while before it crash landed near the city ruins of Chicago where the Midwest Brotherhood was formed.

The airships being seen in the holoscreen are heavily armored with its body larger and longer to function as a flying aircraft carrier. The main body of the airships are similar in shape as the zeppelins but much larger size at lengths of 350 meters and 135 meters in height. The bridge is located underneath the main body close to the front of the main body. An observation tower is built on top of the main body close to the rear of the ship where the tail rudders and four large engine thrusters are located. Two large turrets each armed with 3 large cannons were mounted on the top of the ship in front of the tower with four CIWS turrets placed on each side of the main body, two on top of the observation tower, and six underneath the ships. A third large turret armed with 2 large cannons is placed behind the tower as well. Finally, the four hangars are installed with two hangars on each side of the ships' main body at the lower section.

They could see the names painted on each side of the airships with the large Brotherhood insignia next to the large letters. In order they are the Rhombus, the Dragon, the Prydwen, the Lancelot, the Gawain, the Mordred, and finally the command airship, the Maxson.

It took some time before Harkin manage to overcome his shock and stupor before gathering his wits to focus on his duty. Harkin knew the time had come to begin the secret operation in which was formed with Dante Abram, Theo West, Nate O'Connor, President Truman, and main members of the TSC Council. He stood up from his chair and cleared his throat to gain everyone's attention.

"Ladies and Gentlemen. Members of the TSC, the Minutemen, the Followers, the Railroad, the Institute, and the Third Continental Congress. As of this moment, by declaration or without declaration, we are now officially at war with the last final chapters and remains of the Brotherhood of Steel. However, since our Supreme Commander, the Mojave Commander, and the Minutemen General are unable to serve their duties due to their unexpected absence, I shall take in command as temporary Supreme Commander of the TSC", said Harkin as he turned towards Preston Garvey and Judah Kreger.

"General Preston Garvey, you are also temporary commander of the Minutemen Armed Forces. That goes for you as well Colonel Judah Kreger. You are now temporarily taking command of the Securitron Army and the rest of the New Vegas forces."

Both Preston and Judah were stumped by Harkin's announcement but they quickly nodded understanding the situation.

Colonel Judah Kreger has many experience in commanding a brigade during his time as an Enclave captain and gained more experience as a TSC colonel under Theo's command in campaigns against hostile tribals and Legion remnants around Nevada and Utah. Kreger led many TSC soldiers, robots, and Securitrons into many battles in which gained him respect among his soldiers under his command including from leaders like Theo, House, Dante, Harkin, and Karpov. He then earned the title as "the Devil's Old Spawn" since he still uses his old Enclave Remnant Mk 1 Advanced Power Armor that spread fear among raiders, hostile tribals, and Caesar's Legion. The old armor is also fully upgraded with TSC Zeta shields, Saturnite armor plates, and tesla coils to increase power to his auto-plasma rifle for maximum damage. Right now, Kreger is wearing a TSC officer cap as his headwear and a TSC standard black officer uniform with the silver colonel rank insignia of an eagle holding thirteen arrows in its talons placed underneath the silver TSC symbol on his right chest and on both of the shoulder patches.

Lieutenant General Preston Garvey also gained lots of experience as a colonel during the restoration of the Minutemen and fought alongside Nate in many battles. His battles took place in many conflicts involving the Institute, the Gunners, the Nuka World Raiders, Super Mutants, the Children of Atom Zealots, and mutated horrors before finally reaching the highest rank as Nate's second-in-command as a Lieutenant General. His outfit changed from his old colonial duster to a new Minutemen General uniform almost similar as Nate's but with his own design. Garvey wore a standard blue Minutemen BDU underneath the grey sturdy chest armor with the Minutemen symbol on the front and grey groin armor for extra protection. Over his pants and black boots were grey greave armor for leg protection. Over his armor he wore a dark blue tail coat duster with a belt over the coat going from his left shoulder down to his left hip with a radio attached to the belt on the left shoulder. The coat's collars and shoulder patches had the three gold stars signifying his rank and black gloves are worn over the coat's wrist cuffs. Finally, his headwear is his old Minutemen cowboy hat that he had worn ever since he joined the Minutemen years ago.

Both commanders, Kreger and Garvey, hardly see themselves worthy of being in command of the most powerful forces in the continent, but they accept since they are obligated to do their duties to protect the people of America and Vegas and their civilized way of life.

"Also, I am now commencing a top secret, emergency operation that has been set up by our leaders in case of their unexpected absence or loss of life. It is time to commence Operation: Damocles Hammerfall," said Vice-Admiral Harkin as the military leaders and the TSC Council members knew what that operation is, including President Truman. The rest of the civilians present were confused on what Harkin just announced.

"Excuse me, Vice-Admiral. What is Operation: Damocles Hammerfall?" asked the Follower President, Julie Farkas with confusion on her face.

Harkin tapped the buttons on his chair and the central hologram showed a holo-screen of the detailed plans of a map with blue rectangles indicating TSC or Minutemen units positioned in specified areas in United States territories and New Vegas. One certain unknown TSC unit was colored black with large arrows determining its route to mobilize towards the cities of New Orleans, Miami, and New York before heading towards west at the Wall border section of Kentucky.

"Operation: Damocles Hammerfall is a top-secret operation in which is formed in case a war erupts with the NCR or the Brotherhood of Steel. These two factions are considered the only factions in the continent with the capabilities to launch a full-scale war that could last for years against the United States and the TSC. Our Supreme Commander knew that we couldn't fight multiple fronts despite our advantage in technology, mobility, and numbers so he devised this operation with our commanders and council members to ensure our preparation. This operation involves the immediate pacification of all of the current major hot zones within and around the three major cities that we know are still under siege. New Orleans, Miami, and New York," said Harken as everyone whom are unaware of the secret operation listened intentionally. Even the delegates of New York, Louisiana, and Florida seemed intrigue since it involves the major cities within their respective states where they wanted law and order to be restored immediately.

"To pacify these zones, an elite special force must be formed in order to quickly respond any hot zones that are considered most threatening to the nation's security. Members will be selected from different branches of the TSC military and the Minutemen, including any volunteers from our foreign allies. Each member is selected based on their skills and experience in which is expected to be on veteran level or members of different special forces. They will be given only 3 months to train and be deployed to New Orleans, then Miami, and finally New York. Our main ground forces will set up defensive lines in the front and behind the Wall to hold off the Brotherhood advances with Valkyries, Vertibirds, and Stingrays to provide air support until all three major cities are occupied with all enemies neutralized," Harkin explained before he turned towards General Karpov and General Mallore.

"Karpov and Mallore. You two will be in charge of forming this new special force as according to the guidance and instructions left from our Commander. Also, we already have the ideal candidate to train and take command of this unit," replied Harkin as General Karpov know whom Harkin is talking about.

"You mean Major Kurosawa. The current commander of the 3rd Ares Battalion and the protégé of the Supreme Commander. Do you think she will accept the command?" asked Karpov.

Major Naoko Kurosawa was once the unit commander of Artemis Team of the first generation of Thunderfists during the first years since the formation of the TSC. She fought alongside the Supreme Commander during the mission to scavenge the Zeta Alien generator from the wreckage of the destroyed second Zeta Mothership on the Lunar moon and survived the horrors of the discovered underwater Zeta Alien city, Posiedonis, in the Pacific. She took part in many missions as a Thunderfist special op while commanding her own unit during the Iron Brotherhood-TSC War involving infiltration, sabotage, assassination, intel gathering, and covert operations. She became a modeled soldier and rose the ranks quickly due to her developed skills of quick thinking tactics and forming strategies that will deliver hard blows to the enemy while keeping less casualties on her soldiers. Most of her strategies and tactics are based on Dante's advice of being innovative and quickly adapt in any critical situations in order to survive and win.

Although, rumors spread that she was not only taught these skills under the guidance and teachings of the Supreme Commander but she was also once his secret lover. Many female officers and soldiers were jealous of her "special treatment" that more gossips spread that she only got her ranks and credentials due to her secret affairs with the Commander. However, these gossips on their so-called "affairs" were quickly diminished when she stated, in an intimidating tone while cracking her knuckles, that the Commander is still a virgin and has not shown any interest due to his focus in his duty and to create a future for humanity.

This shut everyone up since they didn't want to suffer the wrath of a war veteran whom is known to have killed many named Brotherhood Paladins and Knights and high ranking Brotherhood commanders during the Iron Brotherhood-TSC War. Especially since she was known to have defeated the most powerful named Brotherhood Paladin in the Brotherhood Iron Chapter. That Brotherhood Paladin she had killed in close combat was Paladin Albert Irons, son of Elder Ragnar Irons and second-in-command of the Brotherhood Iron Chapter. The battle between these two warriors was considered long, bloody, and a legend during the Battle of Cleveland within the city center square ruins.

Harkin nodded at Karpov's words.

"I have no doubt she will. She has always looked up to the Commander as her teacher and will no doubt follow the Operation plan since it was set by our leader. Plus, the Commander is the one whom selected her to be the commander of this special force unit in the first place. She has full faith in him. If she accepts, she will be promoted to Lieutenant Colonel with her battalion becoming a part of the new special force unit."

"Alright, I will inform her and get everything ready to form this new unit," replied Karpov.

"As will I. I will contact the RCSN, Britannia, the Maple Confederacy, Japan, Korea, and other allied nations to see if they are willing to provide volunteers from their armed forces to be a part of this joint unit. But there is another matter concerning the civilians and refugee immigrants living near the Wall," said Mallore.

Coordinator Tanaka responded as soon as she heard that, "I have thought of this matter before this meeting started. We will need to announce to the citizens of the United States, New Vegas, and Posiedonis of the start of this war before we begin to evacuate the civilians and immigrants from the Wall to safer zones where new residential housings can be built during this conflict. However, not many will leave since they have been living in the rebuild settlements, towns, and cities near the Wall for years even before the TSC annexed them. They had built those homes and businesses with their own sweat and blood under our protection and guidance and they will not leave just to have it all destroyed in an upcoming war. They value their new safety and comfortable, civilized living in which is considered luxurious to an average Wastelander. But I may have a suggestion for this problem that many of you will not like."

"Well then tell us, Coordinator Tanaka. What is your proposition for the civilians whom want to stay in their homes near the Wall since it is about to be a war zone?" replied President Truman as he leaned forward in his seat with his arms resting on his knees.

Tanaka was avoiding everyone's gazes and showed signs of sweating on her facial skin. She took a deep breath to calm her heartbeat and prepared herself mentally.

"I suggest we use the old pre-war Selective Service Act of 1948."

The room was silent. It was silent for about 5 seconds before the delegate of the Kentucky State responded.

"Are you talking about drafting the civilians for military service, Coordinator Tanaka?" he asked.

The Selective Service Act, or better known as the "Act to draft civilians as conscript soldiers", was formed in the early 20th century for the old pre-war America to be military ready for entry in WW1, WWII, Vietnam War, Korean War, Resource War, and the Sino-American War. The Act was popular due to nationalism for the American ideals of "preserving liberty and freedom" and "bringing down the tyrants whom threaten that same freedom". But as the wars became more deadly and brutal over the years, the Act became unpopular to the public due to massive casualties in many major battles. Many civilians in the past lost so many of their friends, families, and loved ones due to the drafting that protests and riots sprung all over the cities in the United States. This finally awoken the public's view on war from an "honor to be part of the glory and heroism to fight for freedom" into a realization that is nothing but "a realm of hell on earth where thousands are doomed to perish".

The TSC had never done any drafting on any of the civilians in the United States ever since it was formed. They only had the Civilian Department use propaganda, pamphlets, and media to encourage the public to join the TSC armed forces with words such as "Fight for a better future", "End the Age of Fallout by joining the TSC", or "Let's rebuild to live a life instead of surviving to live". This was all the TSC's basic strategy to gain recruitment and part of the effort to win the hearts and minds of the people.

Julie Faukes was the first to object, "Coordinator Tanaka, passing the Selective Service Act would no doubt upset the civilians living near the Wall. They would see it as an unfair treatment and a conspiracy of the TSC and the Continental Congress to forcibly move the citizens out of their homes. It would be viewed as though we are saying 'Leave or Fight'."

"I know President Faukes. But what I meant to say was that we re-write the Selective Service Act into a Volunteer Service Act. Instead of selecting a random civilian into drafting, we announce our granting of the opportunity for the civilians living near the Wall to learn combat and how they can defend their homestead. They can choose to learn how to fight by their own free will and receive pre-war weapons, both firearms and energy weapons, including basic combat armor to form into militia units. Plus, if they wish, they could assist in setting up bunker shelters in towns and neighborhoods, turn the metros into underground safe zones, set up defenses in urban areas, and provide logistics support with their nearby farms and warehouses as supply storages," replied Tanaka with her idea on forming the Wall civilians into militia for those whom want to stay and defend their homes.

Everyone began to whisper to those close to each other.

"Hmmm. It sounds reasonable…"

"Granting the civilians the opportunity to train and giving the weapons to fight by their own freewill?...I guess it could work…"

"I don't like this…But it is better than leaving them defenseless…"

Harkin thought hard on this subject before he turned to look at President Truman and the Continental Congress delegates.

"President Truman. Fellow delegates. Do all of you agree with her proposal?"

President Truman looked at Harkin before he looked at his fellow delegates. The delegates were nervous but many nodded at their executive leader. President Truman turn to face the TSC Council and the VIPs.

"I will be honest, Vice-Admiral. I really don't like the idea of having the civilians to be turned into citizen soldiers. I have read enough history on major conflicts where militias are mostly killed in battles like the Russian conscripts of the Soviet Union during WWII. However, if the civilians living near the Wall wish to stay and fight instead of evacuating, then it is their choice. But as the President whom represents the people of this country, I wish to place this proposal into a vote."

"Alright then. All those whom favor Coordinator Tanaka's new Service Act raise their hands," said Harkin as he observed the people in the Chamber. Lots of hands were up in the air with the exception of the Followers and the majority of the delegates. Surprisingly, delegates of Kentucky and Texas raised their hands even though their states border the Wall.

"All those whom not in favor with the Act."

Hands from the Followers and the remaining delegates were raised. But it was already cleared that the Act was going to be passed without any need of counting the votes.

"The 'ayes' have it. The Volunteer Service Act shall be passed with Coordinator Tanaka managing the Act with her department handling the volunteers for recruitment along with any civilians from different states whom wish to volunteer to fight in this new war," said Harkin in a hard tone.

"Now that is cleared. What is the status of our forces?" asked Harkin.

TSC Air Force General Mallore was the first to respond. "Sir. We have every air and space assets at combat ready with all of our AFBs on high alert and on standby. They are now waiting for further orders. I also placed Code: Odin's Eye into action in order to have our satellites scan the entire Northern American continent to keep an eye on any movements of each faction that may react to this attack and the sudden disappearance of our commanders. I have also assigned Valkyrie units and Stingray fighter squadrons to patrol the entire U.S. airspace along with some of our stealth Valkyries to scout the regions west of the Wall for any incoming threats both land and air."

General Mallore was still the same former Enclave Vertibird pilot whom managed to lead as the TSC Air Commandant in several air raids, strategic bombings, and battles for air supremacy during the Iron Brotherhood-TSC War, Dixie Liberation, Detroit War, and the Gunner War. His brown hair is in the same bedraggled style as it was during the early years of the TSC's founding. His uniform was changed to a TSC black version of the Enclave officer uniform with a belt around his waist. The uniform has the silver TSC symbol on his right chest with four silver stars underneath the insignia. The TSC symbol is also on both of his shoulders with four silver stars on his shoulder patch. The rest of the outfit consists of black pants with black boots and black leather gloves for his hands. (TSC version of the Fallout 76 Enclave officer uniform)

"Good. What about our ground forces?" asked Harkin.

"We have all of the active and reserve forces near the Wall mobilized and are on high alert for any incoming Brotherhood threats. Units available are the 1st Tesla Corps in Texas, the 3rd Satyr Infantry Division and the 4th Mechanized Golem Infantry (Robots and Securitrons) Corps in Oklahoma, the 76th TSC Rangers and the 8th Minotaur Heavy Infantry Corps in Kentucky, the 12th Ares Hammerhead Corps and the 5th TSC Marine Division in Fort Defiance, and the 10th Centaur Armor Division in Missouri. They are setting up trenches, mines, barbed wires, hedgehogs, bunkers, anti-tank guns, and turrets outside the Wall for additional defenses. We are already bringing in some infantries and armored units from nearby forts within the states of Alabama, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Ohio to reinforce the units to strengthen the Wall's defenses. The rest of our forces in the East Coast are on high alert along with the forces in New York, New Orleans, and Miami whom are remaining on standby," replied General Karpov as he tapped the holo-pad on his chair's right arm to change the central holo-screen to the holo-map of the North American continent with areas marked of their unit positions.

Brigadier General Autumn tapped his holo-pad on his chair to show his forces under his command on the central holo-screen.

"My forces in Texas are not only the 1st Tesla Corps, but also the 21st Texas Desert Rangers and the 15th Vulture Vertibird Squadrons. I also have the 9th Scorpion Armor Division in Oklahoma consisting of Mammoth, Patton, and Chimera tanks along with some Bradleys, Strykers, and mobile artillery supported with infantry units and power armor units. I have ordered them to be on alert and are on standby under the command of my second-in-command, Lieutenant Colonel Irma Royce. They are ready to fight and defend the United States with their lives," replied Brigadier General Autumn with obvious patriotism and loyalty in his voice.

"Excellent. At least we're ready to face the incoming storm that will soon be upon us. Director House, how will this conflict affect our economy and industry?" asked Vice-Admiral Harkin.

Mr. House tapped his holo-pad on his chair and the holo-map showed marked areas of the United States' industry and factory production with most in the northern states such as Pittsburgh and Detroit.

"If we are to keep up with our strength against the Brotherhood of Steel, we will need to keep our industrial sectors running 24/7 with adaptable work shifts to increase and maintain the production rate. This includes the steel mills of Pittsburgh and the assembly factories of Detroit. This also means that all of our railways will need to be under our control in order to ship the supplies, weapons, and ammo to the Wall Frontlines and the three cities that are still under siege. Plus, we will need to adapt new schedules for delivery times and maintenance of the railways to keep our armed forces supplied."

Mr. House continued to type onto his chair's holo-pad to show charts and graphs of the economy, production rates, sales, profits, and trade products imported and exported from the U.S. and New Vegas on the holo-map. The map also revealed trade routes from New Vegas to New California. The routes lead from the New Vegas McCarren Airport, pass the Mojave Border Outpost, and into the NCR territory towards the closest cities such as the NCR capital Shady Sands, the Hub, the Boneyards (Los Angeles), Ashton, Union City, Bullhead, and Dayglow. TSC semi-trucks travel these routes to deliver their trade goods to the cities and towns close to the Mojave Outpost Border and collect the bottlecaps or NCR dollars from the vendors and merchants whom purchase the goods and sell them all over New California.

"Since our industry will shift to focus on the war production, the production of the luxury goods and consumables that are part of the trade agreements with the NCR and the Maple Confederacy will decrease at a rate of 65%. This will no doubt affect the economy badly if the demands of the products and goods are not met. To solve this, we will have to hire more industrial workers among the immigrants and civilians to replace the current laborers whom will be place into war plants and arm factories. We also need to quickly finish any current industrial plants and factories under construction and convert their assembly lines for the war effort. Finally, we need to start selling war bonds to control inflation and to avoid large war debts in the aftermath," said Mr. House.

Murmurs were heard throughout the chamber. The delegates were whispering and muttering to each other concerning about the debts, possible decrease in product goods, and the war's effects to the economy. If there is one thing all politicians hate, it is debts and a bad economy in which can lead the country into a state of depression. All they could do now is place their faith on the experience, skills, and brilliance of the man whom managed to start a robot company at the age of 22 during the Pre-War era and rise up to become a multi-billionaire with influence with the Old U.S. Government and its military.

Harkin looked at the charts and graphs on the central hologram as he listened to Mr. House's proposal before nodding his head.

"Alright then Director House. We shall leave you and your department in charge of the economy and industry," said Harkin as Mr. House nodded with agreement.

Harkin then turned to Julie Farkas. "President Farkas, can your Followers still provide humanitarian efforts during this war along with doctors and surgeons for our armed forces?"

Julie Farkas nodded her head. "Of course, Vice-Admiral. The Followers are always willing to continue their support to the TSC and the United States. I can provide doctors and surgeons whom are willing to volunteer as additional medics for your armed forces and set up refugee zones for evacuated civilians and immigrants."

Harkin nodded his head and looked at Institute Director Madison Lee and Railroad President Desdemona. "Director Lee and President Desdemona, we will need your Institute Coursers and Railroad Agents to expand our spy network all over the Midwest. We will have your agents work alongside the Seraphs to partake in infiltration, sabotage, assassination, and intel gathering missions all over the Midwest and the hot zones of New York, Miami, and New Orleans. Can you two do this?"

Director Madison Lee nodded with a neutral face. "Yes. The Institute shall be happy to provide as much Coursers as possible for this war. We can also provide our scientists to assist in analyzing the Brotherhood's technology and develop new technology for the war effort."

President Desdemona looked at Vice-Admiral Harkin with a determined expression. "The Railroad will gladly fight alongside the TSC as long as the TSC is willing to provide a future for the Synths to co-exist with humanity. We owe much to General O'Connor and Supreme Commander Abram for granting this opportunity."

Harkin smiled lightly at their response they have all organizations with their own talented agents, resources, and skilled individuals to help the TSC protect the United States and win the war. Dante had really succeeded in gathering powerful allies than just making deadly enemies throughout the decade since the TSC's formation.

"Good. We can definitely count on both Railroad and the Institute to help protect the United States and the citizens during this war through espionage and guerilla warfare tactics," said Harkin. The Vice-Admiral than narrowed his eyes before he began the final topic.

"Now that we have our war plans settled. Our final topic is the sudden disappearance of the Retribution and our three main leaders. We need to start searching for them immediately since they are important to our country, both morally and to lead us to the future. We can't lose them or our organization and alliance will start splitting apart due to disagreements and different ideals. This will then eventually destroy the Continental Congress in the inside and tear the United States apart. Plus, the Retribution is an experimental carrier built with the combination of Pre-war and Zeta technology that mustn't fall into enemy hands like the Brotherhood," said Harkin.

Director Madison Li is the first to respond. "I agree. Although, I have no real knowledge nor understanding of the Z-3 Hyperdrive Engine, I would like to know why the Retribution did not jump in a different location on the Earth or in outer space?"

Archangel Schmidt spoke in his usual calm and calculating tone. "It is odd. The last transmission received from the Retribution before it disappeared into the wormhole over DC was the plotted course for the hyperdrive engine to jump the carrier. In which is supposedly to be above the Atlantic Ocean a few miles from the east coast of North Carolina," said Schmidt as he crossed his fingers over his mouth while resting his elbows on the chair's arms.

"If that is true then why are we not receiving subspace communications from the Retribution? Plus, why are we not detecting the carrier from our satellites?" demanded Harkin as he was getting impatient and wanting an immediate straight answer.

"I believe our fellow expert on teleportation technology and the physics of subspace whom studied and tested the hyperdrive engine can give us an insight and a reasonable explanation. Doctor, will you comply?" asked Schmidt as he moved the pupils in his eyes without moving his head to look straight at another scientist in the chamber.

"Umm. Well…I...um."

A nervous mumble was heard and everyone turned to look at a blond haired scientist wearing thick framed spectacles over his eyes with an Institute styled lab coat colored blue. The man had been sitting next to Dr. Nylus throughout the meeting.

This was Dr. Phlishkin, the former Enclave scientist whom is a well-known TSC scientist for his studies of the Zeta Alien teleporter devices on the Olympus and his set up of the teleporter network to travel around the large city-size ship easily and towards the surface of the Earth. He even studied Big MT's transportalponder technology and the Institute's Mass Relay to see how he could create a new teleportation technology based on the designs and functions of each teleportation devices including the Zeta teleporters. After years of study and research, Dr. Petrodct managed to develop and perfect a highly advanced teleportation device that can beam flash objects or living beings to any destination whether it is the surface of a distant planet from orbit, travel from the Lunar moon base to an Earth city in seconds, or into a vehicle like a car or plane without using the door.

There was also rumors that Dr. Plishkin was inventing a special mod for the Pip-Boy Z in which can be used by the wearer to use the teleportation ability as an advantage in a close-quarter-combat, dodge incoming objects like bullets or arrows, escape by flashing at a long distance, infiltrating enemy bases, or assassinating a target. This same mod is also said to give the wearer the ability to fast travel long distances as long as the Pip-Boy recognizes the location in its memory banks. However, any questions concerning Dr. Plishkin's rumored Pip-Boy Z teleportation mod are denied due to all projects and research related to teleportation are considered classified with knowledge only known to Dante, Schmidt, and Dr. Nylus.

Right now, Dr. Plishkin is in the meeting as requested by Archangel Schmidt since the scientist was assigned as the lead scientist of the team of engineers and scientists in developing the experimental proto-type Z-3 Hyperdrive Engine that was installed in the Retribution. Schmidt has suspicion that Plishkin can explain why the Retribution was not showing up in the scanners of the orbiting TSC satellites to confirm its jump in space or somewhere on Earth.

The said scientist was sweating a few liquid drops that are sliding down the sides of his facial skin and had a nervous expression on his face as though he was about to tell a truth to this parents that will get him in trouble. The most obvious sign was how he kept rubbing his hands together as though he is trying to keep his hands dry from all the sweating. Plus, his mouth was forming a nervous smile.

Dr. Li narrowed her eyes as she gazed at the teleporter scientist. "Dr. Plishkin, is there something you wish to say?", she asked while leaning forward with her elbows resting on her knees and crossing her fingers in front of her lower face to lean on.

Dr. Plishkin darted his eyes to each person in the room. Even the ghouls and the Super Mutants serving as delegates looked intimidating as they looked at him with their eyes narrowed or with an eyebrow raised expressing their curiosity.

"Well…you see…I may kn-now…what m-might have hap-p-pened….to the…Retribution," he said having trouble to say the truth in a proper sentence without stuttering.

Harkin narrowed his eyes at Plishkin. "Explain, Doctor."

"I m-may have…accidently p-placed the…uumm…the Hyperchronosphere…backwards….in the….eehh… the hyperdrive….engine's….m-main…..internal….core…eh heh heh," said Phliskin as more sweat came out of his hair and dripped all over his face. His toothed smile adding more to his obvious nervousness and growing fear of the peoples' reaction in the chamber. Most, if not, all of the delegates of the Continental Congress and President Truman were showing facial expressions of confusion.

"Excuse me. The….hyper..cron..o…what?" said President Truman.

"The Hyperchronosphere. It is a unique Zetanite crystal in which is used to interpret the computer data coordinates and activate the hyperdrive's energy core to tear open a hole in the subspace dimension and ride the hyperspace wave tunnel until it reaches the chosen coordinate destination. I was studying this wonderful piece of technology after removing it from the hyperdrive engine to see if we could reverse-engineer it in order to construct our own hyperchronospheres for the possibilities of mass producing the hyperdrive engine," replied Dr. Phliskin.

Harkin narrowed his eyes dangerously at the trembling researcher along with Dr. Madison Li. Dr Li then asked Plishkin.

"If you were studying this piece of technology, then how did you somehow mistakenly place the hyper…chrono..sphere backwards in the Z-3 hyperdrive? Did I say it correctly doctor?"

Plishkin trembled more as more sweat poured down his face as he gave a nervous smile to Dr. Li. "Yes you said it correctly. And for your previous question,….I…well…may have…been…kind..of…excited…to..leave…my…workplace…for…the…memorial..festivity..in…hopes..that I…could..win..a…rare…Captain…Cosmo…comic from…one of…the..game stalls..that I…well…eh-heh..kind..of..accidently…placed…the…sphere…backwards…without..umm…noticing…heh-heh..eh..heh," said Plishkin as he gave a nervous wide smile showing his teeth while still sweating and shaking. He could see everyone was narrowing their eyes at him in irritation or anger for his tiny, slight mistake in which has costed them the absence of their three important leaders.

Harkin was gritting his teeth, Karpov was clenching his knuckles with cracking sounds, Autumn had a hardened expression while his arms are crossed with his right point finger tapping his left bicep, both Dr. Li and Judith Faust have their heads shaken in disbelief, Schmidt had a neutral poker expression, Dr. Nadia and Dr. Nylus held their foreheads in their right hands in embarrassment for their colleague, Kreger was showing an irritating expression with his right eye twitching, Mr. House has his arms folded while his eyes narrowed at Plishkin, Tanaka was leaning her head back in her chair while her eyes were covered with her hands as she groaned with irritation, both Garvey and Shaw had angry expressions directed at Plishkin. Everyone else were just glaring at Plishkin at his unbelievable "slip-up".

"Dr. Plishkin..." said Harkin through his gritting teeth.

Plishkin flinched as his name was called. "Ye-Yes, Vice-Admiral…Sir?"

"Can you still find out where the Retribution jumped to by tracing its last jump coordinates in the subspace or hyperspace wave…whatever it is?" asked Harkin while still gritting his teeth. Dr. Plishkin shook in fright fearing for whatever punishment Harkin had in mind for his "slip-up".

"Y-Y-Yes…Sir! I still have the equipment back in my lab. I can trace where the Retribution jumped to in space and possibly set up a long range subspace communication sensor to hopefully contact our missing leaders. Buuutt….I may need some time…supplies…and manpower….since this is only by theory….and not done…before…eh-heh-heh," replied Plishkin laughing nervously. Harkin continued to grit his teeth and stare hard at the teleporter scientist for a few moments before replying.

"Take whatever equipment…personals…and supplies you need…get down to the D.C. Mall…AND START FINDING OUT WHICH SPACE OR DIMENSION THE RETRIBUTION HAS JUMPED INTO OR I WILL MAKE SURE TO HAVE ALL OF YOUR CAPTAIN COSMO COLLECTION SENT TO THE OLYMPUS TRASH COMPACTOR AND INTO SPACE! DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?!" yelled Harkin as he finally let out his frustration and irritation that he kept hold inside despite his years of discipline as a commanding officer.

Plishkin gasped. His face showed a face of surprise and horror with his eyes widen and pupils shrunk into dots behind his eyeglasses. His mouth was agape showing his upper and lower sets of teeth. His skin becoming pale white as soon as he heard what the Vice-Admiral threatened to do his precious pre-war Captain Cosmo collection. He immediately jumped from his chair and saluted Harkin.

"Yes sir! I will get to it sir!" cried Plishkin as he began run towards the exit slide door. "And please sir! NOT MY CAPTAIN COSMO COLLECTION! THE ACTION FIGURES ARE THE 1st EDITIONS FROM 2054 ALONG WITH THE COMICS! THEIR RARE AND PRICELESS!" screamed Plishkin running through the slide door as it opened.

"I DON'T GIVE A FUCK! GET TO IT OR YOUR COLLECTION WILL BECOME ANOTHER PILE OF JUNK DEBRIS IN SPACE!" yelled Harkin in which led Plishkin to cry more and run faster with the Black Guards outside in the hallways watching him go with curiosity and confusion. Before the doors slid closed, everyone was able to hear Plishkin cry out, "YOUR WORSER THAN THE COMMANDER SIR! WAAAHHHH-HAH-HAH-HAAAA!"

Harkin shook his head while growling at Plishkin's child-like antic. He gazed at everyone in the council chamber to see that everyone has a sweat drop on the side of their heads after hearing the doctor's cry. Either they are embarrassed in hearing Plishkin's cry, feeling awkward after learning about Plishkin's Captain Cosmo collection hobby (obsession), or listening to Harkin's frustrated, angry outcry.

Harkin cleared his throat before settling down his anger. "Alright. We all know that our three commanders are known to have survived the unspeakable horrors and the worst near-death situation in which the survival rate is near 0%. If they could survive whatever is known to man to be considered impossible, they I am sure they can survive whatever dimension they are trapped in. Plus, the Retribution still had some armed forces and supplies on board in which can be beneficial for their survival," said Harkin.

Everyone nodded in agreement since the reputation of the three wanderers are known to have overcome whatever horrors the Wasteland could throw at them.

"Uummm…Sir? I should also mention something of additional civilians whom were still onboard the Retribution before it was attacked," said Coordinator Tanaka with a nervous tone in her voice. Everyone looked at Tanaka with confusion.

"What additional civilians?" asked Harkin.

"The civilians whom were requested to be assigned to the Retribution for equipment check-up, Sir. Here, I will show you their pictures and files. You should know them since they actually know our leaders," said Tanaka as she pressed the buttons on her chair's holopad to show the pictures of Curie, Nick Valentine, Dr. Mobius, Jack Cabot, and Edward Deegan on the chamber's central hologram.

"This one is Curie, the TSC Synth scientist whom is a member of the Biology Department involving her research and development on vaccines and cures for mutated Wasteland diseases, viruses, and bacteria. She was assigned to the Retribution to see if it is possible to set up a biological lab in the carrier for studies on off-world micro-organisms. Over here is Dr. Mobius and Jack Cabot. Due to their known scientific brilliance despite being assigned to different departments, they were requested to see if they could assist in studying the Z-3 Hyperdrive Engine with Dr. Plishkin. Edward Deegan was just accompanying Dr. Cabot as his bodyguard," explained Tanaka as she pointed to each person shown in the hologram. However, General Garvey and General Shaw noticed the familiar private detective Synth on the hologram.

"Hold up. What was Nick doing on the Retribution? He's not a soldier or an official member of the TSC, he is Boston's top private inspector and was forming a new detective agency," said Garvey as Nick was also his friend alongside with Nate. Tanaka typed into her holopad and the hologram showed the picture of the Commonwealth's famous ghoul, John Hancock, and a picture of a TSC VIP card that is known to be used as special passes when given to relatives or friends of military and civilian leaders for a special private tour.

"Apparently, he was given special invitation by Boston's Mayor, John Hancock, to travel to Washington D.C. for the festivities on the Retribution, since it was travelling from as a 'first-class' vacation in which included a private tour on the carrier. Looks like his staff of the detective agency, the Valentine National Detective Agency, were urging him to take a break due to his nearly eight months of non-stop work to get the agency formed and operational despite the fact he is a Synth. I guess they didn't want him to 'break-down' due to overworking so they requested Mayor Hancock to convince him to take this vacation with the VIP benefits," said Tanaka.

General Rosie Shaw shook her head knowing about Nick's overwork due to his persistence to see law, order, and justice restored in Boston. "Oooohh. Nick, boy. He always worries us too much even though he is a Synth and don't need the basic needs of an average human," said Shaw.

"Indeed. But we know those four should be fine. If they are with our three wandering friends, then they should be able to survive," said General Garvey. Everyone else also agreed since three of the civilians have fought and explored alongside Nate in the Commonwealth years ago.

"Alright. Does everyone know what to do to play their part in this war?" asked Harkin.

Everyone in the chamber nodded in confirmation.

"Then this meeting is now adjourned. Tanaka, prepare the newsroom. I must make the announcement to our public," said Harkin.

"Yes, Sir," said Tanaka.

Everyone got up from their seats and began to exit the chamber. One by One. All are now getting ready for war.

October 23, 2290

MegaVault Town, Megaton District, Washington D.C.

The sun finally set in the eastern horizon. The night sky finally appeared with stars shining in the sky with the moon shining its lunar light. The capital city of Washington D.C. lit up brightly along with the street lamps along the highways and the lights within nearby towns and residential districts brightening the dark landscapes. The highways were also lighted up by the headlights and red rear lights of the constant moving fusion-powered vehicles driven by civilians. However, they are moving slow due to traffic caused by TSC checkpoints set up all over the highways.

Usually the people that have lived in the area for a long time before the Lone Wanderer was born used to fear the dark. The night back in 2277 was always scary and fearful due to multiple night attacks from the mutated monsters, feral ghouls, Super Mutants, or Raiders. The land would be so dark that they couldn't see well until their eyes adjusted and are always having a hard time finding scavenged lighters to make torches or fire pits when traveling or sleeping in the Wasteland at night. Everyone had to keep their weapons close to themselves when sleeping in the Wasteland, even in settlements even though it has guards patrolling the night.

Now, thanks to the TSC for restoring law and order, taming the mutated wildlife, and pacifying the lands the people didn't need to fear the night anymore. The people are now able to walk, drive, or travel outside of their towns and cities knowing that the TSC and DC Police are always patrolling the areas keeping everyone safe. Plus, the street lamps and city lights provided enough illumination to see in the darkness of the night easing their fears and paranoia of something stalking them in the dark. It also let the people to finally come out of their homes and enjoy on their balconies, rooftops, and backyards at night to look up at the beautiful night sky to gaze at the stars, the beautiful lunar moon, and occasionally see a shooting star.

However, the citizens living in the town of MegaVault were not all happy. Many were partying for the festivities after listening to the speeches of their respective leaders through their TV or radio. Many were drinking at Moriarty's Saloon, eating at the Brass Lantern, or socializing in the town's center next to the town's fountain statue as they celebrated the Great War Memorial. But then the air raid sirens erupted that everyone brought everyone to stop partying and worry. Then they witnessed the bright flashes and heard explosions and screams coming from the D.C. Mall as they watched with horror as the space carrier fell from the sky. The people of MegaVault thought that they were under attack and panicked before Sheriff Simms and Vault 101 Overseer Amata arrived and managed to calm down the populace. Now they are awaiting any update news on the TV or radio concerning about the sudden attack.

…

Unlike the worried people of MegaVault, two children staying in Dante's MegaVault home were completely depressed and are still crying due to the sudden disappearance of their fellow parent/guardian. Both Shaun O'Connor and Marie Abram were in Marie's bedroom on the bed while comforting each other as they grieved together. Marie held the huge white bear that Theo helped her won in one of the game stalls close tightly to her chest as she sniffled and rubbed her face in the bear's neck. Shaun kept his left arm around Marie while he petted Dogmeat on the head whom is also laying on the bed with his head on Shaun's lap as he whimpered in sadness as well.

Gentle knocks were heard on the bedroom door. "Master Shaun. Madam Marie. You've been in there since you came back," said the familiar robotic voice of Wadsworth, Dante's faithful Mr. Handy robot butler.

"Go away, Wadsworth," said Marie while sniffling. "Madam Marie, I know Master Dante's disappearance is sudden and tragic but we know he is tough man to be killed. Come out with Master Shaun and his canine so you can eat some dinner. I've prepared a roasted chicken dinner for all of you," said Wadsworth trying to convince the children to eat.

"She said go away! We're not hungry so just leave us alone, you stupid robot!" yelled Shaun as he let his emotions take over and more tears spilled from his eyes. Marie hugged Shaun close to her with her right arm as they try to comfort each other.

…

"Hmmm…" sighed Wadsworth as he gave up and floated away from Marie's bedroom door. He hovered down the spiral stairs and is about to put away the dinner he worked hard to prepare in hopes he could get the children and the dog to eat. He even made a velvet cake covered in white ice cream frosting for desert in hopes it would cheer them up.

Suddenly the doorbell ranged. Wadsworth floated towards the door and replied. "Yes? Who is it?"

"It's me, Wadsworth," replied a familiar female voice. Wadsworth first pushed a nearby holopad next to the front door to open up a holo-screen to see who it is outside. Wadsworth was glad to see the Overseer of Vault 101, Amata Almodovar, at the door. He could also see the four TSC Black Guards and the Minutemen Blue Guard Captain Brown and his men still guarding the house outside. The same guards whom protected Marie and Shaun at the Mall during the attack. The robot turned off the holo-screen, disengaged the advanced security lock, and opened the door.

"Thank heavens Lady Amata. I'm glad you came just about time," said Wadsworth as he floated to the side to let Amata inside before closing the door and re-engaging the lock.

"I came to check on the kids. I promised Dante if anything happens to him, I would take Marie under my care and that includes Shaun and Dogmeat. So how are they doing?" asked Amata with concern in her voice.

"Not so well. They are still grieving over their parents' disappearance. I've tried to convince them to come out to eat the dinner I prepared but they wouldn't budge," replied the concerned robot butler.

Amata sighed. She knew this would happen to the young teens whom think that Dante and Nate are possibly dead. "It's alright, Wadsworth. I'll handle this. Just keep the dinner warm and I'll have them come out to eat," she said as she started to walk up the spiral stairs and towards Marie's bedroom.

…

A knock was heard again. "I said go away! Are your sensors broken, Wadsworth?!" yelled Marie.

"It's Aunt Amata, Marie. Can you and Shaun come out?" said the voice of Marie's adopted aunt. Marie flinched as she heard that voice and she held onto Shaun and her teddy bear more tightly. "No," said Marie. It was silent for a few seconds.

"Then how about I come in then. Is that okay for you guys?" asked Amata. The young teens were silent before they sniffled and looked at each other. Shaun nodded in acceptance.

"Yeah. You can come in," said Marie. The teens kept their head down staring at the bed sheets as Amata opened the door and entered the room. Amata stared at the depressed teens for a few moments and sighed before she pulled Marie's small office chair that was next to her desk mirror close to the bed and sat down on the furniture.

"Are you two alright?" asked Amata. Marie and Shaun didn't say anything but the tear stains and their nose sniffling was all the answer she needed. "Wrong question to ask. It's clear they are not. But I need to lift up their spirits," thought Amata.

"Marie, Shaun. Listen to me. I know you two are depressed and traumatized by the sudden attack and their disappearance but you know Dante and Nate are okay. They are tough warriors whom survived the horrors of the Wasteland and beaten bad Raiders and monsters that were thought to be impossible to kill. Hell, I even thought it was impossible for Dante to survive out here before he turned it into the peaceful paradise we now live in," said Amata hoping to remind them how powerful their parents are.

The teens were silent but they continued to listen to Amata.

"Shaun. Marie. If your father and uncle can beat any bad guys or monsters in the Wasteland, then I am sure they can handle whatever situation they are in. Besides, they'll find a way to get back and the TSC are already working on a solution to locate and bring back Dante and Nate. So will you suck in your depression and lift up your spirits? It's what your parents would want for you two. Stay strong, for them," said Amata with a small, encouraging smile.

The teens looked at Amata for a few seconds before drying their faces with sleeves and sniffing one last time. They gave Amata a determined look. "Okay, Mrs. Almodovar, I will stay strong for my dad," said Shaun. "As will I. I can wait for Uncle Dante to come back safely. I should know he is strong and powerful to be killed," said Marie.

Amata smiled brightly. "Good. Now how about we go down and eat the roast chicken dinner? Wadsworth worked hard to make it for you two. Heck, he even made a red velvet cake for desert. Sounds good?" said Amata. Both teens smiled and nodded. "Okay. And we should apologize to Wadsworth for yelling at him. He was just trying to help us, right Shaun?" said Marie feeling guilty for the Mr. Handy robot. "Yeah. Let's do that also," said Shaun agreeing with his friend (or girlfriend).

Marie smiled in which made Shaun blush a bit before both left the room and headed downstairs with Dogmeat following. Amata smirked knowing that both of the teens are attracted to each other. Amata then got and left the room to join the teens downstairs. She also made sure to call her husband, son, and father with her Pip-boy's built in earphone to come and join the teens for dinner in Dante's house.

…

October 23, 2290

Vault 0, Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Colorado

Within the same dark room, twelve members dressed in their respective gray, blue, and red robes were sitting around the same circular, metal table. The same members whom agreed with the thirteenth member and their new leader to start a new war for the sake of their organization's survival. For now, they are all waiting for that same leader to arrive before the meeting starts.

When the metal slide doors opened, the twelve members stood up to greet with respect for their leader's arrival. The gray robed man walked calmly to his chair and sat down. "At ease, fellow elders," he said. All of the members, now identified as "Elders", sat down in their chairs.

"Is it done, High Elder?" asked the female blue robed elder.

"It is. Their carrier has fallen and their spaceships are heavily damaged for combat. This will give us the time and opportunity to strike immediately and gain footholds before they can counterattack," replied the High Elder. The leader bowed his head down with his hands clasped together in prayer. "May our fellow brothers and sisters whom gave their lives in the attack be granted their reward in the gates of Valhalla," he stated with the other Elders following his example.

"Our forces had already mobilized before the attack was launched. We will be striking at the six strategic targets within the planned time frame?" asked the cracked old man wearing gray robes.

"Yes. They may be readying their defenses at the Wall and reinforcing it with more soldiers, artillery, and air support, but we will overrun their defenses at bring that Wall down and invade their lands," said the High Elder.

"Won't we suffer many casualties if we charge recklessly in an all-out attack?" replied a concerned male Elder wearing red robes.

"I already have made strategic plans and tactics with our generals and paladin commanders to avoid unnecessary losses. We will suffer losses, but that is unavoidable and we must overcome all challenges," said the High Elder. Every Elder in the chamber gazed at their leader before they silently agreed.

"Now there is not much to discuss but await results from our generals and commanders. The details of our next operations will be sent to your offices. Review them for the next meeting. You all are dismissed," he said as everyone began to file out of the council chamber.

Once every Elder has left the chamber, the High Elder stood up and walked towards a nearby wall. He pushed a nearby button and watched as the holographic projector lit up to show the picture of Dante Abram on the wall. His position next to the bright glowing image finally revealed his face and form.

The High Elder was a middle age man of possible 20 to 25 years old. His face was hard and angular with a thick, brown beard grown along from his side burns down to his chin with a thick moustache connecting to his beard. His brown hair was long and tied into a long, low ponytail style. He had a long scar over his right eye and down his right cheek with another scar across his nose. His gray robe consisted of a gray heavy padded leather coat over his black BOS officer uniform with black leather boots. Underneath the coat and over his uniform he wore a heavy BOS combat chest armor with armor over his groin and greaves over his pants and boots for extra protection against energy, explosion, and firearm weapons.

The High Elder gazed hatefully at Dante's image before he reached underneath his uniform to pull out a large, golden locket. He opened it to see an old picture taken with an old pre-war camera that was scavenged and repaired. The picture revealed to 4 people whom are his parents, himself, and….his brother. The father in the picture was blond haired man with his T-54 power armor showing his status as a high-ranking Paladin. The mother is a young woman with long brown hair reaching down to her mid back and is wearing red scribe robes. The High Elder in the picture is shown to be a 8-year-old boy with short brown hair and is smiling widely at the camera. His brother is revealed to be 10-year-old boy with brown hair also and is smiling with his brother.

"Brother. How could you let that man influence your mind? Poison your thoughts with ridiculous ideals? The Brotherhood is the sole defender of humanity and should be kept that way. How could you follow Dante's heretic thoughts and shame our founder, Roger Maxson. Our ancestor," said the High Elder as he stroked his fingers gently across the pictured face of his older brother.

The High Elder began to choke as tears spilled from his eyes. He began to remember the order he gave to the BOS Irons Chapter Elder, Ragnan Irons. The order to wipe out the East Coast Brotherhood of Steel after he declared Owen Lyons and his entire chapter traitors for disobeying their orders to scavenge technology and return to New California. This also included in assassinating Arthur Maxson. That was a surprise for Elder Irons, but he carried it out due to his loyalty to the BOS and the Maxson line. The one who happily managed to carry out Arthur's assassination was the infamous Crimson Rose, Inquisitor Lydia Rose. But that wasn't the reason the High Elder ordered them to be wiped out, it was his personal reason than the Brotherhood's interest. It was due to preserving the Maxson name and legacy.

"I had always regretted in giving that order. But I had no choice. I didn't want to believe what the Inquisitor Rose informed me of your treachery. You were openly agreeing to Dante's alliance between the TSC and the East Coast Brotherhood to show your support for Elder Lyons and Sarah Lyons ideals of protecting those Wastelanders and sharing technology. We cannot trust anyone outside of our organization as our forefathers believe and as it is written in the Codex. I know you look up to Dante as a model warrior, but can't you see. He had Enclave soldiers and personals in his organization. They cannot be forgiven for their past evil deeds. Their punishment is only death. Their only chance of redeeming themselves is death," the High Elder said as his voice became cracked and angry as more tears spilled from his eyes.

"You were going to shame our family's name, Arthur. Were you really going to give up the Brotherhood that our founder worked through blood and sacrifice to form for the good of humanity?! We are the only force to lead to humanity's future! We are supposed to be the builders of a new civilization! And yet…yet…you actually believe in Dante's words more than Roger Maxson's?" said the High Elder as he calmed himself and brushed away his tears. He then hardened his eyes at his brother.

"Well, you have chosen your path. And now, as leader of the new Brotherhood of Steel, I will be able to preserve our family's name and restore the Brotherhood to its great glory and establish it as the most powerful force on Earth. And that will happen once we defeat the United States, the TSC, and the Minutemen by taking their lands, their technology, and the Olympus," he said as snapped the locket shut and put it back into his uniform. He gazed back at the image of Dante Abram, knowing in his gut that man is still alive somehow but is currently incapacitated to lead his forces. This will give him the time to weaken the TSC before the Lone Wanderer returns to strike back.

"By the time you recover and somehow get back Dante, your TSC will be too weak to fight under your command. I shall do everything necessary to make Roger Maxson's dream come true. To make the Brotherhood as the rightful humanity's defender, keepers of all technology, and leader to the bright future, not your TSC or the Minutemen. And anyone, such as your citizens, Synths, and your followers stand in our way, then we shall not hesitate to massacre them with extreme prejudice. I, High Elder Morgan Maxson, former brother of Arthur Maxson, and last of the Maxson bloodline, shall see this to end!"

High Elder Morgan Maxson gazed at Dante's image one final time with full anger and hatred before he slammed his hand on the button to turn of the holographic projector. He turned around and exit the council chamber. Outside the council chamber, a woman with long red hair and red robes was waiting outside while leaning against the steel wall. Maxson passed her but used his right arm to signal her to follow him. The woman smirked and followed her leader. "I told you haven't seen the last of me, Dante. Now I shall make you suffer by taking everything away from you. Your country, your TSC, and finally the Olympus," the woman thought as she made a viscous smile with her red lips showing her white teeth that stretched her face. A smile that the Devil would love. The Crimson Rose is back.

The Last Maxson and the Crimson Rose were now going to prepare for war. The war that will determine the fate of who will stand as the most powerful faction in the remnants of the Old World America.

The one final conflict between the TSC and the Brotherhood of Steel.

War, War never changes.

---

Sorry for the long chapter update. This was quite challenging and I wanted to show what is happening back at Earth. So now you know whom is the current leader of the last chapters of the BOS. Morgan Maxson, the younger brother of Arthur Maxson. As explained, the entire Lyons Brotherhood is wiped out by the Iron Brotherhood by order of Morgan Maxson including his brother because Morgan wanted to preserve the respect and fame of the Morgan family name, like royalty. So now, the war is on and the next chapters will focus on the three wanderers in RuneTerra. I will also update some chapters involving the TSC-Brotherhood War but I won't tell much. Just use your imagination and guess what the outcome might be. See you soon.