"Phew." Olivia exhaled, wiping sweat from her forehead. She leaned against a stack of armored crates fastened together in a pile by large industrial belts.
Traveling between realities as if walking through a doorway messes with your perception of time and its passing. Urdak. Mars. The Ivory Tower and Hell. The last two were in the same reality, so they counted as one.
Unlike the others who went to handle matters in various locations, Olivia, Doomguy, the Wretch, and the Marine moved as a group. Between the listed locations, they not only transferred equipment and resources but also started relocating to Hell. Specifically, the construction of the new facilities they'd use was in the Ring of Pride. Lucifer granted them a MASSIVE plot of land within the Circle that was entirely isolated. Not so much as an insect scurried out here.
Regarding the Mars complex, it'd still be used and contribute to the effort. However, with Vega's increased capabilities, he could manage it by himself. Samuel, Olivia, and the Wretch would primarily oversee these facilities. Of course, Vega and the others (who could) would contribute. The idea was to make them as automated as possible to lessen the workload and assigned responsibilities.
Despite being told she could take a "supervisor" position and assist in other ways, Olivia PASSIONATELY refuted that suggestion. She wasn't a member of Khan's family. She wasn't a Royal. She wasn't a Noble. She wasn't an Overlord. She wasn't innately "useful" or "important". But goddamn it, she had two hands and feet. Olivia was GOING to work no matter what anyone said!
Important note: No one saw Olivia as useless. No one perceived her as taking up space or sitting on her ass while the rest of them got things done. Samuel, more than anyone, expressed how appreciative her efforts were. He even went so far as to request her help with Khan's treatment. Sincerely, he didn't want her to feel useless.
Unfortunately, not even Samuel could solve the problems within this Sinner. A majority stemmed from how her life on Earth turned out. The rest came from her time in Hell before meeting Samuel and Doomguy. Olivia knew the others didn't see her as deadweight or a burden in ANY capacity. But those issues, along with an innate desire to be helpful, compelled her to push herself more even though it was unneeded.
As such, Olivia tried her hardest to match Doomguy, the Marine, and the Wretch regarding physical labor. You know, arguably the three physically strongest people in their group. Admittedly, the trio felt a sizable concern watching the Sinner exert so much effort. They kept their eyes on her as she worked since they believed her collapse from exhaustion was a real possibility.
But with enough revitalizing beverages (courtesy of Khan and the Maykrs) and an endless determination, Olivia showed she could, quite literally, run with the big boys. Doomguy attended to the weapons. The Wretch and the Marine handled the Doom-related articles. So, it was up to Olivia (by her insistence) to take care of and transport all science and mechanical-related items.
Currently, Olivia has just finished delivering every crate containing research apparatuses and tools. A needlessly pointless (but not to her) detail was how these crates were arranged. Five in a stack and five in a row consisting of five each. In total, there were multiple large square-shaped groups of one hundred crates. This had taken Olivia all night to accomplish. The morning sun was just now rising.
When the first rays of sunlight reached Olivia, they revealed the state she was in. Her clothes clung to her body as they were soaked in sweat. Her sleeves with rolled up to her elbows. Her hair was nearly as wet as her attire and looked disheveled. Her muscles and bones ached, begging for relaxation. Yet, on the Sinner's face, there was an unwavering smile.
Suddenly, a hand was placed on Olivia's back. She wasn't startled since she heard the heavy footsteps approaching behind her. Although two mutes were present, she knew who would likely check on her.
"I'm okay," Olivia told him as she looked over her shoulder. As she expected, it was Doomguy. "I just...need to breathe for a bit." She added.
"That's perfect," Vega spoke from Doomguy's suit. Now that he was essentially omnipresent, Vega could monitor and assist them while juggling SO many other tasks. "Due to your diligence, I can begin construction. There are still some things left over, but I can easily transport those as well." He stated.
"No...I can help..." Olivia breathed out while straightening herself. The exhaustion was growing the longer she rested.
"I don't think that is necessary," Vega replied. He didn't want to sound rude or pushy. Much like the two mutes and a Demon, he was concerned that the poor woman was getting close to her limit.
"I...am...fine..." Olivia asserted between light pants. She removed her glasses to clean them because they'd become misty from her sweat. Only to remember that ALL of her was sweaty.
"Miss," Wretch spoke as he and the Marine approached. "What is left to do here is very little. All of us can check in with the others to see if there's more we can accomplish. Why not return to your quarters in the Mars complex, retrieve your belongings, and move them to the hotel?" He suggested.
The cleverness of the Demon finally got through Olivia's persistence. It made sense, like so many others were, to move into the hotel as it was becoming their HQ.
"...Alright..." Olivia agreed. "I...may also take a cold shower..." She said, although in a whisper. Her tiredness was reaching its apex.
"A wise decision. It'll rejuvenate you and allow you to continue working." Wretch supported the idea, as did the two mutes with a nod. They didn't want her to keep working. They only put the idea in her head to further convince her to shower, change her clothes, and, hopefully, pass out in bed for a good few hours. Maybe even all day.
"Yeah...that makes sense..." Olivia muttered, now stumbling toward the portal they'd been using.
"Do you need one of us to escort you?" Wretch inquired. Again, there was the real possibility that she could collapse in transit.
"That won't be needed," Vega interjected. Quickly, he changed the portal's location to Olivia's quarters.
"Thank you, Vega...that was sweet..." Olivia said with a tired smile.
"Think nothing of it. It's the least I can do." Vega responded.
With a weak wave of goodbye, Olivia passed through the rift. Once safe on the other side, Vega closed the portal. He'd re-open it after the trio that remained decided on their destinations.
"I think it'd be best if I remained here. Although Vega is doing the construction, I can begin assembling and preparing our equipment." Wretch started the conversation. In response, the space marine produced his notepad and pen.
"I can head to the hotel." Doomguy wrote.
Afterward, the two looked at their chrome-colored companion. He stared at the ground, thinking of what he could offer to anyone.
...
...
In the end, the Marine shrugged. He was good with machines but nowhere as proficient as the Wretch. The idea of accompanying Doomguy appeared for a fleeting second. Alas, he hadn't established a relationship with ANYONE that'd be at the hotel.
"Might I offer an idea?" Vega spoke, getting their attention. "You are familiar with the Maykrs. Would they not like to have you assist them? It needn't be with Khan. There's so much more that must be done in Urdak. I'm sure you could find something." He proposed.
Taking a moment to consider that, the Marine would nod in acceptance. Truthfully, he has known the Maykrs longer than the Wretch. Granted, they were trapped as ethereal entities within the Soul Cube. Even so, the Marine knew them; they knew him, and he felt they had an equally good relationship as he did with the Wretch.
With their destinations determined, Vega opened two portals. With one final gesture, the tried-and-true thumbs-up, the trio separated.
Elsewhere, In The Happy Hotel...
Doomguy stepped into the lobby. The portal was positioned before the front doors. As it closed, the space marine expected to be greeted immediately by someone, even though it was fairly early. However, what awaited him was something that was...hard to describe.
Charlie, Vagatha, Nifty, Lilith, and Lucifer were gathered around the front desk. Their backs faced the hotel's entrance. Even from here, Doomguy could tell they were whispering. They seemed to be focused on something on the other side of the front desk.
thunk
Doomguy tried to step quietly so he wouldn't spook them too much. Unfortunately, the lobby was nearly in total silence. So, his best effort to approach without causing alarm was still heard by the others.
"Hm? Oh! Doomguy!" Charlie called as they all turned to look at him. Yet, she did so in as much of a hushed voice as possible. "Come over here! You've gotta see this!" She beckoned him with an excited smile and wave.
Alright. The space marine's intrigue was piqued. With the same care as before, he traveled across the lobby. Whatever was going on required them to keep the volume down. Upon reaching the front desk, he immediately understood why only THESE five people were there.
On the other side of the desk, there were two chairs. In those chairs were two people. On the left (from their perspective) was Husk. On the right was Azrael. Two empty bottles of wine lay horizontally on the floor before their chairs. Two empty glasses, clearly used, were set on the wall-spanning shelf behind them. These two certainly had a good night.
Of course, this isn't what had brought these five spectators together. Azrael, likely in her sleep, was nuzzled into the warmth of Husk's fur. She leaned across her chair and rested her head against his shoulder. Together, the two rested peacefully, blissfully unaware of the small crowd observing them.
"Isn't this just so sweet?" Charlie asked, speaking to Doomguy. "I've never seen Husk be so adorable!" She quietly exclaimed, nearly squealing.
"And I've never gotten better blackmail on Azrael," Lucifer commented whilst smirking. Immediately, Lilith, who stood beside him with a camera in her hands, slapped his head.
On that note, Doomguy noticed Charlie, Vagatha, and Nifty with cameras as well. Without needing to write anything, he looked at the women in such a way that it conveyed confusion.
"As Charlie said, this is the sweetest Husk's ever been. We wanted to preserve the moment." Vagatha explained.
"Yeah! I always knew Husk was a big softie!" Nifty chimed in with a grin.
"And we, or at least I, wanted to share this with the rest of our family. But NOT as blackmail." Lilith clarified as her Husband rubbed his noggin.
With that answer given, Doomguy returned his attention to the slumbering pair. Azrael, he'd become fairly close to. Husk once offered the space marine a drink. So, Doomguy felt he should do something to bring this embarrassing moment to an end for both their sakes.
CLAP
Faster than anyone could notice or prevent, Doomguy clapped his hands. Everyone, especially the sleeping duo, was startled by the sudden noise. However, Husk and Azrael were fairly groggy for two reasons. 1. They had shared two bottles of wine. 2. They were being thrust from slumber into consciousness. So, their reaction was a bit delayed.
"DOOMGUY!" Charlie, Vagatha, Nifty, and Lilith all shouted in unison. They couldn't BELIEVE he'd do that!
"What's going on?!" Husk asked, slightly slurred. He rapidly blinked his eyes and scanned his surroundings. Azrael, who rose her head from his shoulder, remained silent as she came to her senses.
Fortunately, this wasn't the Hellcat's first awakening after a night of drinking. His vision cleared rather quickly. He discovered the six people on the other side of the desk. He also, after looking to his left, saw Azrael. Likewise, Azrael saw him. Their eyes locked. Their brains quickly did the math. Reactions ensued.
"WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING?!" Husk yelled in anger, springing from his seat. His booming voice wasn't aimed at Azrael. Rather, it was directed at the group that looked at them like a damn exhibit!
As for Azrael, the black scales of her face glowed a bright purple. It was even brighter than her eyes. Her mouth opened but failed to make any noises. Afterward, her brain shut down. The Angel of Death was no longer home.
"Husk, we can explain!" Charlie quickly exclaimed as the feathered feline gave them a stare that radiated violent intent.
"OH. I BET YOU FUCKING CAN." Husk said while slamming his hands onto the desk's surface. Any traces of inebriation and alcohol were instantly gone. The fires of his rage burned both out of his body.
"Quick, Nifty! The cameras!" Vagatha ordered before Husk noticed them.
"THE WHAT?!" Husk questioned. At the same time, the mono-eyed midget swiftly gathered the devices. "NIFTY DON'T YOU FUCKING-"
FWOOSH
Before Husk could finish that sentence, the redhead was gone. Despite knowing it'd be impossible to catch her, Husk still gave chase.
"NIFTY!" Husk yelled as he spread his wings and pursued. This was one of the few times they had ever seen him fly. That's just how pissed he was.
During this craziness, Doomguy miraculously disappeared. Precisely, he'd been missing after Husk started shouting. Despite weighing like a concrete fridge, the man was fairly nimble on his feet. He was also quite good at slipping away undetected.
A Short Time Later...
Doomguy didn't realize how much there was to the Happy Hotel. Sure, during his initial visits, he scanned the building's layout. But it was an entirely different experience when you traversed its hallways. Luckily, with Vega's aid, he didn't need to explore aimlessly with the hope of finding his intended destination.
Additionally, Vega was assisting the people the space marine wanted to see. As was assumed, some construction work was needed to create the ideal studio space. So, even before Doomguy reached the location, the duo who would share the room was aware of his approach.
"Ah, there he is." Alastor was the first to greet the mute as he crossed the threshold. "Sorry for the pitiful state of things. We're still working." He apologized.
Even though that was true, Doomguy was still impressed with how much progress had been accomplished overnight. Sure, a lot of it was done by Vega via the drones. But he could see the personal touches the Radio and Mantis Demons were applying. Mainly, for now, it was aesthetic-related things such as paint and decor.
"What's up?" Katie inquired while walking over. She assumed that the only reason the space marine would be here was if it was important.
"We finished moving the supplies for the new facilities here in Hell. So, we're assisting where we can." Doomguy wrote after producing his notepad.
"And you chose to help us?" Alastor questioned. He wasn't ungrateful; he just assumed this would be fairly low on the list of Doomguy's priorities.
"Although you two are the broadcasters, I'll still need to be here a lot once the public knows about everything. The least I can do is help get it all ready." Doomguy wrote.
"Huh. That's...very considerate of you." Katie said. "Not to imply you're an asshole or anything. I'm just not used to my coworkers giving a shit." She clarified.
"What about Tom?' Alastor asked.
"He's a bottom bitch who speaks when told to bark." Katie casually remarked. Damn. Even by the Radio Demon's standards, that was a SCATHING insult.
"Is there bad blood between you two?" Doomguy wrote. Her distaste for her co-anchor was abnormally passionate.
"Nope. He's just a useless sack of shit that smells like mustard gas and masturbation. Plus, he's a disgusting degenerate. The man can't avoid acting like a pervert for more than two seconds. If you think Angel Dust's horny, spend ten minutes with Tom. You'll need a priest." Katie told them
Ah. Alastor and Doomguy were getting a better understanding of why the Mantis Demon didn't think highly of Tom Trench. Honestly, she barely considered him a person.
"Anyway." Katie began, wanting to change the topic. "What would you like to do? Me and Chuckles over here just woke up ourselves. So, we haven't started on anything." She asked. Funnily enough, her "nickname" for the Radio Demon made him suppress a light chortle.
"Whatever needs the most doing." Doomguy wrote.
"Hmm..." Alastor hummed, considering the options. "You could move our equipment around and help set it up. Try as they might, our little helpers couldn't do much yesterday." He suggested.
"He means Angel Dust, Cherri, the Imps, and the Hellhound." Katie revealed in case he was curious.
Responding with a nod, Doomguy got to work. Katie and Alastor assisted by handling the more technical aspects of their equipment's installation. Together, the trio would make great progress in very little time.
Meanwhile, In Urdak...
"Easy, now. There's no need to rush." Samur told his Mother from her side.
One of Samuel's theories was that Argent energy would have no negative effects on Khan. As time passed and he, along with the Maykrs, continued her treatment with various doses, this seemed to be the case. Khan's condition only improved with every increase. However, as they feared, the physical toll of her stasis was significant. The best way to describe it was that, despite being conscious, Khan's body was still frozen.
Khan's organs functioned without issue. That was something the Maykrs NEEDED to be sure of before they even considered putting their Mother into the Divinity. So, there were no concerns that she'd suddenly experience organ failure of any kind. Although, even if she did, it's not as if her soul would be lost. Urdak was secured with the Argent barrier; they were safe from Doom's grasp.
However, some might pose the question: Why not take Khan to the Resurrection Chamber? If her soul was not at risk, they could make a new body, right? Well, yes, if the conditions were ideal. During the war, especially near its end, the Maykrs were using their resources faster than they could reproduce them. What remained of the supplies meant to give Maykrs new flesh and bone had been used by the Marine to restore those within the Soul Cube.
Unfortunately, another issue of Urdak's current state was the inability to restart resource production. Although Doom's legions primarily targeted anything related to defense and offense, they were still mindful to cripple the Maykrs as much as possible. Top all of this off with other present circumstances talomg priority for now, and it made no sense to divert attention to a problem that would take a LONG time to solve.
Truthfully, that's why Argent had even been put forward as a solution to the conundrum that was Khan's state. Samuel had already repaired the means to make Argent on Mars. He also had a sizable amount safely stored within the complex. So, even if complications arose, there wouldn't be any worry that they'd rapidly run through what Argent he had and be brought back to square one.
Furthermore, with them now establishing a new complex in Lucifer's Circle, they'd be able to produce MORE Argent and create a MASSIVE stockpile in no time at all. In conclusion, although Urdak was out of commission for the foreseeable future, they ensured that they wouldn't be without supplies at any point.
Focusing back on Khan, with Argent in ample supply, they could experiment and test it as much as they wanted to explore its possibilities. Amazingly, Khan's interest was the same if not greater than Samuel's. She, like her children, believed it impossible to cleanse and purify Doom's energy. Yet, it had been done, and by a mortal no less.
Of course, the reservations her children had, especially Samur, prevented Khan from being as explorative with it at this moment as she wanted to be. However, to be fair, she understood why her children were so adamant. She appreciated the love and concern they had for her well-being.
With that said, Khan was growing more annoyed by her children's OVERLY protective and cautious attitude toward her. Although it was not their intention, they made her feel fragile and incapable. Her body might be stagnated, but her spirit and mind certainly weren't!
"Samur..." Khan started, getting her Son to look at her. "I love you." She told him before looking at the other Maykrs. "And I love all of you as well." She continued as her eyes squinted. "However, if you don't stop speaking to me in that manner, I will start slapping you." She warned.
Oof. Ignoring the current size of Khan's hands, the idea of her slapping ANY of her children was unheard of. That alone conveyed to everyone that they MIGHT be getting on their Mother's nerves. Even so, they couldn't help it. They never thought they'd see her again, and yet, here they all were. They only wanted to take care of her.
"My apologies," Samur said with a bow of his head. His siblings did the same to show their regret alongside him. "We just don't want you to hurt yourself. You've already been-"
"Samur. I might be massive, but I'm not made of glass. I'd likely do more damage to the floor than it would to me." Khan interrupted him, maintaining her squint. "Now, back away from me. I will be moving across the room. Should I fall, NONE of you are to rush to my side. I will get myself upright again. There's no point in recovering my strength if you're going to do everything for me." She stated.
Reluctantly, Khan's children abided. They watched as their Mother slowly hovered through the room. The tendrils that dangled from her torso occasionally twitched. As she neared the wall, it appeared that nothing would happen. But then, it did.
Without any indication, Khan's body betrayed her. She was swiftly falling forward. Her children felt the immediate urge to flock to her to try and prevent contact with the floor. However, another shocking development would occur.
THUNK
Right as Khan was halfway through her descent, the door that was ahead of her opened. Rushing in from the connected corridor was the Marine. The sound that went through the air was caused by her body impacting his. Yet, he managed not only to catch her but also remained on his feet.
"Ugh, thank you," Khan said with a grunt while gripping his body to help support her weight.
In reply, the Marine patted Khan on the back. Admittedly, apart from Samuel, this was the most normal interaction she's had since the others left. It was like a breath of fresh air.
"Again, thank you," Khan repeated as she steadied herself. The Marine didn't do anything. He stood completely motionless. If you didn't know he was a person, you'd assume that Khan was gripping an out-of-place suit of armor.
"Marine." One of the Maykrs spoke as they approached. Samur remained where he was. Due to the Marine's association with the Wretch, he didn't think highly of him. "What brings you here?" They asked.
"Work."
...
...
The Marine...spoke. However, only Samur was alarmed by this. Remember, Khan has seen his memories twice. First, when he arrived with the Wretch during her stasis, then again earlier when most of the group allowed Khan to do the same with them. The Maykrs, as established, have been in his company even longer than the Wretch. So, they knew that he COULD talk, yet chose not to like Doomguy.
But...there was something odd about the voice. It didn't sound human. Samur couldn't quite think of how to describe it. All he knew was that it didn't come across as a person, leading him to ponder what was hidden beneath the Marine's helmet.
"Ah, is that so?" Khan said, an idea forming in her mind. "Well, Samuel is currently examining what is left of Urdak to see how he can provide further aid. Children, why don't you take the Marine to see him? Samur and I will remain here and continue my treatment." She suggested.
"Oh! A wonderful idea, Mother!" One of the Maykrs exclaimed in excitement. They viewed the Marine the same as the Wretch did. He wasn't just a partner in the fight against Doom. He was their friend. They cared about him as he did them. "Could we also use this time to improve his equipment? We promised we would if we ever reclaimed our home." They asked.
"Of course, children. Explore your ideas to your soul's content." Khan answered with a smile.
After that, the Maykrs departed with the Marine. They'd take care of his improvements and upgrades before seeking Samuel. Once they were out of earshot, Samur approached Khan, who now balanced herself with the wall.
"Mother." Samur began, getting her attention. "Could you tell me more about the Marine?" He requested.
For a few seconds, Khan stared silently at him. She fully understood the question. The reason for her lack of immediate response was the audacity of her child. To understand this, we must explore the full ramifications of Samur's request.
When the Wretch and the Marine first arrived, their memories were unknowingly viewed by Khan. Concerning the latter, she didn't spend too much time with him as her focus, understandably, was on the literal DEMON walking through Urdak. While this first foray into their minds wasn't consensual, it was justified as they were mysterious strangers who managed to not only find Urdak but enter its barrier. Before examining them and realizing their intent, Khan viewed them, as anyone would if they were in her position, as potential threats coming to kill her while she was helpless to stop them.
However, that second viewing was the exact opposite. If the Marine didn't want his soul explored, all he had to do was not approach Khan earlier. Yet, he did. The Marine took her hand and allowed her to form a connection between their souls. He allowed himself, to a certain degree, to be at her mercy. Khan, more than ANYONE else, understood that level of vulnerability and respected it immensely.
So, for Samur to so casually ask his Mother to share her knowledge of the Marine was...upsetting. No, more than that. It allowed anger to appear within Khan's soul. Did her Son believe she'd carelessly share someone's life for no greater reason than he wanted to know? The very thought threatened to boil her blood.
However, Khan's maturity held her composure. She wouldn't show how such an inquiry struck a nerve with her.
"Samur, why do you wish to know?" Khan questioned. She ensured that her expression, tone, and physical language remained neutral.
"For better and worse, I know the history of everyone associated with us. Even Doomguy's past is not a complete mystery to me. There are some things I still do not know, but what I do is enough." Samur stated as he moved his hands to his backside. "However, the Marine is an enigma to the others and myself. Only you, our kin, and the Wretch have the full story. For the sake of pacifying my concerns about him, I'd like to obtain that knowledge." He explained.
"Why not ask your Brothers and Sisters, then?" Khan challenged.
"I fear that the isolation they experienced with the Marine and the Wretch may have affected them. Mentally, that is. I don't think they're back to themselves yet." Samuel replied.
"Oh? Then what does that say about me?" Khan pressed. Even with her restraint, a small amount of displeasure laced her tone.
An intense quiet followed. Samur carefully considered how to word his response.
"You have endured a state of existence never experienced by any other entity in history. As shown by your body, it has taken a toll. We cannot deny the possibility that your soul and consciousness were also impacted. The fact you acknowledge the Wretch as a person is-"
BOOM
An explosion. The only proper way to describe what just transpired. Khan, without even thinking, slammed her right fist into the wall. Purely reacting to her Son's words, she put ALL her physical strength and soul's power into that action. It was the only way to maintain her composure while also expelling the surge of rage that filled her form in that instant.
"..Leave," Khan told him. Her tone was no longer neutral. Her fingers tightened. She pulled her gaze away from her Son and stared at the floor.
"Mother, there's no need to-"
In response, Khan snapped her head in Samur's direction. She would NOT repeat herself. The glare in her eyes and the expression on her face conveyed more than words could.
"I...apologize," Samur said, bowing his head. "It was not my intent to agitate you, Mother." He added before departing.
Khan watched Samur until he was out of her sight. Even then, she waited until she could no longer feel his presence before moving. With him gone, she slowly returned to the room's center then lowered herself next to the Divinity.
"Vega," Khan spoke once she was seated. "Forgive the accusatory question, but were you listening just now?" She asked.
"No, Khan. Although I am present at all of our primary locations and am connected to countless devices, I am only consciously anywhere when someone speaks my name. This ensures I do not invade anyone's privacy or make you uncomfortable." Vega answered.
"I see," Khan said after a sigh of relief. "Again, I'm sorry if I offended you." She apologized.
"Not at all. I understand that my existence, more so than ever, presents many questions and concerns. I wish I could do more to put you and everyone else at ease, but all I can do is promise that I am not eavesdropping or monitoring you beyond your vitals. I keep track of those should something suddenly happen that requires immediate medical assistance." Vega responded, hoping to comfort her.
"That's very kind of you." Khan complimented him with a smile, now looking at the ceiling. "May I ask another question?" She requested.
"I will do my best to answer," Vega replied, giving her permission.
"Would you like a physical body? Something to make interaction with myself and the rest more natural?" Khan proposed.
Silence briefly came between the two. Vega had never considered the idea of having a "normal" form.
"...Now, it is my turn to apologize for potential offense." Vega began. "I do not see the point in having such a vessel for two reasons. First, it would be no different than how I currently am. Neither Doctor Hayden nor I have looked into artificial senses. For clarity, what I'm presenting as a point of conflict is that I'd gain nothing new from this hypothetical body. As of yet, to our knowledge, it is impossible to replicate certain sensations, such as taste or smell, in such a way that it is a flawless recreation. So, if the goal is to make me feel more alive, we wouldn't be able to accomplish that. At least, not at this time.
Second, I have no soul. I am a consciousness formed of code. Although I believe I have a personality, albeit one in active development, it is not the same as a soul. Admittedly, my knowledge of souls is still in its infancy. The same can be said about Doctor Hayden. If there is a way to bestow a soul onto things that were not born, such as I, we've yet to discover it. We're not even close to such an amazing feat. In conclusion, as I stated before, there is no reason to give me a body of any kind. Be it for our goals or to satisfy personal wants, nothing can be gained. I'd be no different than I am now." He told her.
Silence took the air once again. However, this time it was unusual. As Vega spoke, he noticed Khan's expression slowly changing to convey confusion. By the time he was finished, she was completely bewildered. But before the AI could say anything about it, Khan spoke first.
"Vega, you don't need a soul. You already have one."