Chapter 12: Isabelle's Stressful Work
Author's Note: Here we are with a break from the action to see what is going on over to the mobile base. This does mean a change in perspective of things going on. I might do this occasionally from time to time. So that is something to look forward to. I uh...not sure what else to say so enjoy the chapter. This is TheFoolOfTheNoon signing off!
/
Isabelle's P.O.V.
With folded arms I oversaw the current progression of the campaign on the virtual map. Looking at the current teams making their way to different bases and cities. A small smile formed on my face when I saw the team Nacho is on already cleared the city out in record time. I knew Nacho would be a major assist for us, but he already turned a few days siege into a one day take over. Now I don't think he did all the work as he isn't at full power, but he certainly made it easier for everyone else.
"Captain Isabelle, Freya's team is making great progress. They are jumping ahead of predicted schedule."
"That's good, as expected with a powerhouse on their side. How about the other teams?"
"Ankha and Johan's squad cleared out a base near their targeted location. They will be making it to the main location in no time. Scout teams have reported strange grooves in the ground ahead of them. They are investigating them in case but found nothing so far. One team reported finding another of those odd transparent scales."
"Another? Those scales belong to somebody or something, so tell the scouting teams to stay frosty."
"Already doing so ma'am."
"And our main forces? They are following predicted timetable and only managed to start their siege on Polyrrhenia. They are facing strong opposition there after all."
"They are holding out so far. No action needed on our end."
"Alright, keep monitoring then. We must be prepared in case anything unexpected happens."
"Yes, ma'am! By the way, Mason wished to see you. Said he had some concerns involving the beast and of course the civilians with us from recent missions."
I sighed a bit because Mason wasn't the first to directly ask me about the beast. While some of our staff had gotten used to him. There are some who come to me filing their complaints. I even heard some whispers that I am compromised by Nacho and should be replaced. It's honestly tiring, and I wish they would stop. It was easier running a town than putting up with complaints of this level, "Alright, I'll see him. Let him know I'm coming."
"Will do, ma'am."
Walking away from mission control I made my way towards Mason's labs. Following the routes to make the travel time quick and easy. Mason as a person I always found brilliant due to his affinity with technological advancements. Give the man enough time and he can figure out technology some would struggle to understand. However, his history before joining the coalition is muddled in secrecy. Perhaps he has a history that he doesn't want publicly known. Either way, the man is secretive with his projects. However, his commitment to the mission is unquestionable. Though I have to point out his relationship with Olivia, Petri and Skye while adorable at times. Makes me curious about their history together. Another story I suppose, I mean it took quite an adventure for me to be with Ankha and Nacho.
As I passed some of the crew. I got some respectful salutes to which I returned. Though the corners of my hearing I can make out some crewmembers talking about me behind my back. Per usual, it concerns my connection to the monster we let aboard, AKA, Nacho. Not like my job is hard enough already. I am the captain and responsible for everyone here and this vessel. Every day and every battle we lose good people. Giving their lives for the cause of reclaiming our place on this planet gone crazy. When things go wrong…everyone looks to me for answers. When it comes to tactics…I am expected to have ideas. When lives are lost…somebody must remember them.
I AM STRESSED ENOUGH AS IT IS.
I sighed again, "I got to stop thinking about it. It only makes it worst for me."
I just want Ankha or Nacho here with me right now. Preferably both and help me relax from this position I had to take up. Because despite everything that mentally stresses me out…I really want to do my part in the effort. It just so happens my skills made me qualified for this. Still, I must remain strong in front of everyone as if I show weakness…my role will be questioned, and it may snowball from there.
"Shake those thoughts Isa…no need to stress yourself out now."
Pushing away my thoughts, I finished my walk and ended up in Mason's workshop. Opening the door, I found the man with Olivia and Petri. Conversing with each other over reports concerning Nacho.
"Mason, Olivia, and Petri. I am here as requested so what is it that needed my attention?"
Mason gave me a smile before a look of concern briefly flashed across his face, "Are you alright ma'am? You look a bit tired."
"It's nothing I can't handle, but let's not stray from the subject. What is it about Nacho that has you concerned? I already have plenty of complaints already from some of the crew."
Mason accepted my answer and moved onto the business, "Well Petri managed to complete her research on Nacho's samples. Long story short, he is just the epicenter of different strains of the virus we have seen in the veils. Petri, show the captain."
Petri nodded as she brought out her data pad and revealed the results, "As Mason said, Nacho is holding many different strains in his body. We found five from the samples we collected and my experimentation. The hunter strain was the common one found in the samples, but that was to be expected. There was one I dubbed the 'evolutionary strain' seems to constantly mutate from the prodding I did. Changing shape and making itself immune from the experiments I tried. Gorger strain which seems to be found near his mouth in light quantities. Experiments reveal it alters the digestive system…to the point where the infected can eat things they normally couldn't. Berserker strain does as the name implies, increases subject ferocity and induces a rage state. Lastly this one is from the…generous sample you and Ankha provided as I requested. This strain is the Lust strain, or I like to call it, the 'Kansen' strain. This one was purely found only in the sample you provided. The infected have increased libido and well…sex drive. They wanted to stick their shaft into something before I shot them the cure."
"Oh my…you found that many strains of a virus just from those samples in Nacho's body? I thought it was only the hunter strain and the symbiotic strain considering he infected me and Ankha with the latter. How come his body is littered with these strains? This virus originated from the frenzy virus strain from the Shagaru Magala."
Petri nodded, "Indeed, I did my research and…this is honestly very concerning and…in my career as a scientist quite a discovery. Your boyfriend is a literal walking pandemic that goes beyond even the Magala line of elder dragons. Though each of the strains we have seen so far are curable with nulberries and wystone in their early stages. So, it seems they share the same vulnerabilities as their originator. Not sure why that is consistent though."
Mason gave me a serious look as he took over, "Unlike the symbiotic strain that is within you and Ankha. These other strains seem to function for specific purposes. Perhaps extensions of himself?"
I thought about it for a bit. Thinking about the names of the strains and their functions. The dots begin to connect in my brain on why those strains must exist, "You're onto something Mason. The evolutionary strain must relate to Nacho's ability to mutate and grow stronger. The berserker strain for his apex state that he used before in the past. Gorger for his ability to eat things that would be inedible for most people. The lust strain…um…well…I rather not say, but you get what I mean!"
Petri smirked as her glasses became angled in a way that hides her eyes, "So by that logic then the symbiotic strain was his way of marking you and Ankha as his mates. Because of your relationship with each other. Virus strains being extensions of his abilities…very fascinating."
Olivia gave a small cough to call attention to herself, "However, despite the discoveries Captain. The three of us are worried of possible outbreaks the beast could cause. We have checked the crew and found no traces of the virus, so he isn't sneakily infecting the rest of us. So, we acknowledge his control, but we worry that one day that control may slip and compromise the rest of the base."
"I see…that is a valid concern. As we don't fully understand his body and I am worried of any hidden surprises that he might be unaware of. It's how Ankha got infected with the symbiotic strain in the first place. I rather not have that happen with the rest of the personnel."
"Then would you allow us permission to develop counter measures for him? It's for everyone else's safety, captain."
I am not sure there is even anything that could completely counter Nacho. All I know is keeping him calm and levelheaded should prevent any sudden outbreaks. Still some measures should be put in place. I would preferably have Ankha and Nacho here so we can get a wide consensus of concerned parties involved. However, they are busy…so it's just me, "Okay, I grant you permission to develop counter measures, but nothing that would aim to harm or kill Nacho alright? That is my only condition, am I clear?"
Oliva briefly showed her displeasure but relented as I shot her a glare, "Of course…ma'am."
The others agree to this as Petri spoke up again, "I could use more samples to help with this development. So, when Nacho returns, can you tell him to donate some to help?"
"I will make sure to relay the message."
"Now onto the other problem," Mason cut in, "The civilians, we have been picking a good amount lately from recent rescues and while we did put them to work in small ways. We are simply carrying too much. We need to drop them off as soon as possible."
"Not to mention some are getting antsy with the beast aboard. Especially with the Arboridae who are still looking for reparations from him for destroying their village and eventually the rest of their society when the merge happened. Which he is also blamed for," Olivia added as she crossed her legs, "Honestly, I am not sure why we still have them on board. I know some work for us, but the others are simple deadweight if all they do is complain."
I sighed, "I do agree they are proving troublesome. Unfortunately, we can't just boot them off. They don't have a suitable home to go back to. However, I don't understand either when they jumped on in the first place. The elder of this group specifically saying they must stay with us to find a new suitable home."
Mason grumbled a bit, "So we are letting them stay because their elder believes it will take them to a new home to live in? I thought we operated more logically than that."
"It is true, but the Arboridae's knowledge with nature magic proved to be quite helpful in the long run. So, we compromised and here we are. We get their best to aid in our efforts in the war and we help them with their goals. *Sigh* not sure what to do with their…concerns with Nacho other than keep him out of sight of them. To avoid riling them up and potentially causing an incident," As experienced as I am now…I still hate confrontations and would rather avoid having to settle disputes like this. Nacho would normally settle this back in our town himself…but he's not here. Also, he is the center of the problem. Which means I have no choice but to do it myself, "I'll see to giving them an official statement from me when possible because I need to make sure the mission is going smoothly."
"Fair enough, just keep it in mind captain. Stability and order in this mobile base are important to maintain."
"I know Mason, many people are looking to me to keep things stable. I will make sure that trust is not misplaced. I already have somebody who showed me a great example of that."
I heard Olivia scoff, "It's Nacho isn't it? Always circles around back to him with you. Stop putting him on a pedestal like a fan girl. You're a grown woman captain."
My eyes narrowed as I glared at Olivia. The utter disrespect not just towards me but Nacho as well, "Ms. Olivia, just because I allowed you to speak freely doesn't exempt you from consequences. Watch your words and don't speak badly of Nacho. He is a good man and a great leader in his own right. He was mayor of Mellow after all and if you ask anyone who lived there. They have nothing but good things to say about him, so watch your mouth."
Oliva looked a bit taken aback about my attitude change and stern demeanor, but reclaimed her composure, "I see…I misspoke captain. Sorry."
"Make sure it doesn't happen again. That being said, our business has been concluded. Now if you excuse me, I have a campaign to look over. You have your objectives as well. If anything, new comes up, please tell me."
I gave them a salute before turning around and walking away. That stressful situation settled as I tried to clear my head to stay focused on the overarching task at hand. Also hoping that maybe I might get the time to relax. I missed the simpler days.
/
Mason's P.O.V.
"That certainly could have gone better, but I noticed Petri that you didn't mention the primal strain," I looked over to the scientist as her glasses prevented her eyes from being seen again.
"I didn't want to stress her out. Considering our one and only test subject had to be put down because of horrible random mutations. Not to mention we don't understand it very well other than it's the origin of all the other strains."
I nodded my head in agreement as I turned my attention to Olivia, "Olivia, love. I know you have your strong thoughts about the captain's connection to the beast. But there was no need to provoke her like that."
"Sorry, it just frustrates me. The beast is the reason why our world is thrown into disarray. Why we lost our old lives…just I can't be the only one thinking that its iffy that her and Ankha are lovers with that thing?"
I placed a hand on her shoulder as I brought her into hug, "No you're not the only one. However, Isabelle and Ankha helped get the coalition off the ground. Best not to start trouble when it's not needed."
She sighed as she returned the hug, "You're right, still though I feel like we are the only ones thinking ahead about the beast problem."
"I assure you there are others. Still though Ankha and Isabelle will be a major obstacle, not that I blame them."
"Is there a way to change him back into a human? If that is possible then it can take away many of the morality headaches."
I noticed Petri adjust her glasses with a sigh, "Well one problem with that Olivia. It's far too late to do something like that. When I did my check up on him and looked at the DNA through the samples, I was able to get. There is nothing to revert even if it was possible. His DNA is the virus, and the virus is him. They are essentially one and the same for lack of a better term. A complete synthesis of the likes I never seen before."
"So, in other words…there is no saving him."
"That is my scientific opinion yes, but I don't think the captain would appreciate me saying it."
I rubbed my temple as I tried to brainstorm a possible containment method for the beast. As how does one deal with essentially an unstoppable force of nature? The wystones may be the best place to start as its open information that such things were created to combat the original virus. Hmm…I wonder if the Wyceum is still in contact. If the stones were made from the virus itself as a solid antibody…yes that could work.
"Girls, we need to contact the Wyceum. We are going to need their expertise for this," the girls nodded in unison as they understood what I was planning. Olivia is going off to send the request in and Petri going to her lab to set some remaining samples aside. As for me, I was going to work up some suggestions until I heard somebody else walk into the room. I turned around and relaxed when I saw the pure face of Skye looking at me.
"Oh, my I am not interrupting anything am I?"
"No no, it's quite alright Skye. The others and I just recently had a meeting with the captain. She asked us to develop counter measures in case the beast accidentally discharges his virus on us."
"Oh, that would be bad. I have confidence you can do it Mason. You didn't get to where you are on luck alone."
"I know my bright blue Skye. What brings you down here though? I thought you were busy in the mess hall?"
"Oh! Silly me, I got off shift early to bring you three a special made lunch I made!"
She brought out a bag with a smile on her face. Man, she is quite a woman. Skye is Olivia's close friend before she ended up in this bubble of a relationship we have. If Petri is the quirky scientist, and Olivia is the sexy femme fatale. Skye I would say is the heart of this relationship. Always making sure we are taking care of ourselves and forcing us to relax if we are stubborn. I guess she is motherly that way, but I love her for her purity and uplifting our spirits. Thankfully, she has no skills that would put her into active dangerous duty, and I prefer it that way.
"Thanks, I'll make sure Olivia and Petri get theirs love."
"Got to keep that mind nice and healthy. Considering all the work you do, just make sure to take breaks or else. Alright?"
"Yes dear, hehe."
"Good, I don't know what I would do if you burnt yourself out."
"Maybe some cuddling would help if it came to that?"
She shook her head with an amused smile, "That's what you always want! Either that or the other thing."
"I am a man with specific tastes. I can't help it."
"Hehe, whatever. I'll see you later, alright? I can't distract you too much from your work."
"It's no trouble."
"Tell the others I love them too."
"I'll make sure to pass it along."
We shared a light kiss before she left. My mood was lifted afterwards, and an idea struck a chord with me. Perhaps I needed that more than I thought.
/
Isabelle's P.O.V.
"Excuse me, can I have your attention please," I was able to get some time to gather the Arboridae on board together. Making an official statement with them on the beast to ease their worries. At least that is the plan as who knows how they will react to what I say. I just need to come out and say it. Still, it's a bit annoying to not be able to understand what they are saying as some of them are talking to each other in their native tongue. Thankfully, their elder silenced their chattering. The elderly man motioned me to speak, "Thanks, now I know that most of you are upset with Nacho being part of the crew here. The beast, as you prefer to call him. I am here to state he is no threat to you, and we are making counter measures in case something happens."
"But he's dangerous! He destroyed not just the tree climber's village but destroyed all others from the merging of worlds. We need restitution for these offenses!" shouted one of the villagers.
"I know, but you must understand he wasn't in his right mind at that time. You will be given your restitution and believe me Nacho does regret what happened when he was out of control. He is doing what he can to make up for it."
"How do we know if he truly regrets his actions? How do we know you are only covering for him? We are aware of your intimacy with the beast," exclaimed another.
Why do they keep targeting that? That is low hanging fruit at this point, "My personal life has nothing to do with my statements. I already know how dangerous Nacho can be and that is mainly the factors he himself is unaware of. However, you have my word he will be held responsible in case of those accidents. I will even bring him before you to make him promise that."
"You, being able to make that monster promise to us? Sure, we will believe it when it happens. Even after we want to see said actions take place as well."
"It will happen. I just can't do it right away in the middle of a campaign. I'm sorry on that front."
The elder looked at me as he raised his hand. Causing the others to give him room to speak, "We understand Miss Isabelle. I for one am glad you came here to speak about it as I know of a way it can be made up for us. If the beast truly wishes to make reparations, then he will guide us to our new home."
There was a small gasp from his people, and I looked at him with confusion, "Guide you to your new home?"
"Yes, in my meditations. New visions came to me and even surprised me. The beast will know the way to our new home. I saw him pointing the way to a deep green forest that seemed endless. He will find the grove that opens to a sanctuary where creatures such as us can thrive…however I also seen potential conflict but my visions blur there. Something conflicting with the beast no doubt, but it's unknown to me."
"I-I see…this is unexpected. I can make that request happen; Nacho is always willing to help. Though I am not sure how he would know where to take you."
"He will know, something connects to him there. I can feel it, so when you can. Please send our request forward. I will make sure we don't cause a disturbance."
I didn't see this turn of events coming, but I guess I can't back out now, "Consider it done. When Nacho returns, I will make sure to let him know."
"It is much appreciated miss, thank you."
"It's no problem, the Coalition always does what it can for its allies. That being said, you may return to your duties. Dismissed."
The elder nodded in acknowledgement as he gathered his people to send them off on their duties. As for me, I am mentally relieved that things went smoothly. Granted now I must explain to Nacho that he just needs to know somehow where their new home is. Guess I must cross that bridge when I get to it. Still though, there is plenty on my plate now. I should return to mission control first to see how things are going.
/
The return trip was mostly uneventful, but I ran into Lucky along the way. He was somewhat busy with his own assignments by Grimmralda. Still, he had time to walk and talk with me to mission control.
"So Grimmralda has been trying to take you under her wing?" I asked as Lucky informed me what he had been up to.
"Yeah, she said I am Night hunters' material. Being part undead now is just a bonus as some of their notable members are as she called it, 'freaky'. I am not sure how to take that honestly."
"Well if it's something you want to explore I say go for it. I am sure some of their skills could be useful for you."
"Yeah but…I have seen how she trains recruits. It's not going to be fun and probably be painful."
"Oh, well it's still your decision. Though personally I think you should go for it. I did some training with Ankha and Nacho before as a hunter and a fighter. Right now, it's still helping me out even now."
"I'll consider it then…"
We make it to mission control, and I was briefly updated on everyone's current situation. Which mainly is no major changes. Well, I thought it was going to continue that way until a surprise call from Scout Team Alpha.
"Mission control, Mission control!"
I immediately picked up, "You're on, what's the situation?"
"Ma'am! We found more of the translucent scales in the path ahead. More than usual…something is here. I think…" The comms goes quiet for a bit as I heard near inaudible voices speaking. All before a sharp scream pierced the comms, "Shit shit! It's here! It can turn invisible! Big snake! It just took one of my men!"
Panic filled my mind. They ran into the owner of the scales and it's killing them, "Get your men out of there! You can't fight whatever it is!"
"Don't need to tell me twice! We are going to retreat and try to regroup with the army. We…just don't know what it is! Shit! It took another! Wait…shit shit shit! We are knee deep in shit! I can hear more! It's not alone! I repeat its not alone!"
The soldier's heavy breathing and panic breathing can be heard as he kept running. Dread running down my spine before the man's blood curdling scream cut through the comms before being followed by crunching. He was gone, nothing but the noise of the thing swallowing him was coming out through the comms. I physically told the operator to cut the connection as I sat down in the nearest chair. Holding my temples as this new development not only complicates things, but more importantly we just lost good men to it. Getting his last screams out of my head I look over to the team.
"Get me connection to the others ASAP! We need to warn them, now!"
Just what kind of large monster snake did they run into out there? Just…how many are slithering around out there without us knowing? I fear not for the safety of Ankha and Nacho, but the others…they can be in danger.
"Isabelle? Are you alright? You look paler than normal."
"I know Lucky…I know."
