Epilogue (The Sun Has Set)

Same place as before?

…

Relax! I just wanted to check. I know you military boys change your protocols frequently. But thank you for assuming that I feel at home here.

…

Yes, you are very welcome! Now, I'd really appreciate it if I didn't have to do like five takes.

…

I really couldn't care any less. I'm just gonna start. Erhm! Remember me? Yes, you're not getting rid of me that easily. And once again, more has been declassified so I got plenty to talk about.

To start off with, Trevor was in hospital for quite a while. Turns out that nasty Aparoid did a big number on his organs. Mainly his left kidney and his lungs. His kidney had to be rebuilt completely as otherwise he'd had to go through life with just one. And I don't have to tell you that this is not optimal for a soldier. His lungs also needed some work, but luckily it was only a portion of it that required replacement.

For the rest, he needed a lot of antibiotics to clean up the residue that nasty virus left inside of him. And he needed regular blood transfusions to make sure that everything was cleared and clean. Good thing that the resident specialist on Aparoids could be of service during this process.

Speaking of him, that little smooth triangle box with a mind of his own, his role in the team was still something that was up in the air. And before I continue, I believe that it's best for you, my dear readers, to experience it yourself.

- PAL

It has been great since the good news came through. Trevor, his old and current friend, is alive and will make it. Sure, he will still need a lot of treatment. But he is conscious and he has not lost his odd sense of humor. Good thing he shares in that exact thing. For Phantom, this was a huge relief.
And sooner than later, it was possible for Trevor to join them. Not as an active member just yet but at least he would be around for meetings and the like. And it was very important for him to be present at a particular meeting.

For this meeting, they were put onto neutral ground, accommodated by the Admiral on one of his Cruisers. Just so that they would have the privacy necessary for something this important.

Before it starts, the main point of the meeting is looking out of the window. Staring into the endless void of space. To admire its beauty? Or to try and find out what his place is amongst those many stars? The only that knows the answer to this question, is PAL himself. Kind of confined to a room that would not have looked out of place in the Lieutenant's home, he is at least free to wander around while waiting for the axe to drop.

Then the door opens behind him but he barely takes notice. Phantom enters and closes the door behind him.

"Hey PAL. Whatcha doin'?" he greets casually, if a little tense.

"Not much. Waiting. Looking. Pondering."

"Penny for your thoughts?"

There is a moment of silence from PAL but Phantom can see his friend's reflection in the glass. It is clear that his one big red eye is looking at him, before looking in various other directions. Like he is trying to come up with a well-worded answer to this question.

"I have been thinking, Roger. About my role. Both in this team and in this life. While I enjoy my time with this team, it was always meant for one, singular goal; the total annihilation of the Aparoids. And that goal… is still not achieved." PAL sighs, as the white emote light turns to a gray ring.

It is clear that this is still weighing heavily on PAL's mind.

"I get what you're saying, but you're not like them. At all. I…- everyone has seen the real you. Even if they aren't going to admit it." Phantom sympathizes, hoping not to address the worst case scenario that is nagging in the back of his head.

At the very least, the gray ring disappears from him saying that.

"Thank you, Roger. I appreciate that very much. Because I know you mean it. Like I said; I have been thinking a lot. And I have come to realize that I am an Aparoid. But I am indeed not like them. The first piece of evidence was visual. The moment I saw those blue tendrils come out of me… it was wonderful."

PAL's light turns to a vivid green with a faint yellow ring, indicating a careful happiness.

"It was like… realizing I had hands for the very first time. And they were mine to control. The only difference to yours, is that they come out of me directly instead of being attached to a limb. And they were blue. Not that disgusting purple! But a bright, calming blue."

The A.I. turns around to face Phantom and then makes the metal retreat around his eye but he does not activate his weapon. Instead, he lets out the tendrils. And as they come out of their shell, they wave freely about. Then the rest of the front-facing metal retreats as well, giving a clear look into his vulnerable insides. Along with even more tendrils sprouting out from the purple mass cooped up inside. Leaving only the eye, the emote light, the voice box and other electrical or mechanical as the previously recognizable parts. And it is clear that PAL feels like it is a big weight that is off his shoulders. A big weight he never really realized he had to lose.

"Be honest, my friend. Does this frighten you?" he asks the white vulpine, who has his mouth agape.

Sure, he has seen this mass before. After all, he put it in its current shell. But the reveal feels very different to him. Like he is not looking at the same mass as before. It looks alive and thrivingly so, the way it pumps much like a happy heart does.

And those tendrils… he has seen them only vaguely. While glancing over on the occasion during the evacuation, but never like this. Never was it presented to him like this. Those tendrils are fascinating. Looking like the whiskers on a cat but somehow they feel sentient. They look almost fluid, like they are made out of a living liquid. Considering their blue color, it would not surprise him if they were.

"Wow… PAL." he says with both surprised honor and utter fascination.

"I… I-it doesn't frighten me at all. In fact, I'm really happy you found this out about yourself! I'm… fascinated and damn proud to see you like this."

Hearing that, makes PAL's emote light turns to an even brighter green as the yellow ring fades more and more.

"Thank you… my friend. And thank you for making me realize that I am so much more than what I thought I was. I may be an Aparoid but I have changed. All my experiences and all of the upgrades you have given me…"

"You've mutated. Into something different." Phantom concludes, slowly realizing the magnitude of this.

"Yes. I-I have looked into myself for the first time. In a long time. And do you know what I saw?"

"Tell me."

"I saw the purple. The hated color. I saw it pulsing like a diseased heart. But I looked beneath its rotten surface because that is where my tendrils came from. And I saw that it was blue on the inside as well. I had indeed transformed. Thanks to this everyone in this team… but mainly thanks to you. Roger… I could never repay you for what you have done for me. But I promise you now that the last true Aparoid is dead, that will show Lylat the face of the new Aparoid race. I will dedicate myself to the extermination of something else: the enemies of Nova 7. Together with you, my partner."

Phantom can barely keep it together hearing those words coming from PAL's voice box. All sentences, all syllables and all words composed by his living computer friend. And all of it sounds like candy to his ears. He could not feel more happy nor privileged that this little triangle is so full of wisdom and love for him. He therefore opens his arms and for the first time, PAL actually lands in them without slamming into his ribcage. His tendrils wrap around his best friend and tighten gently. The feeling of being able to "hug" back… it is indescribable.

"Thank you, PAL." Phantom sniffs.

"You're amazing. And I'll help you with your mission. Your enemies are mine. And Nova 7's enemies will tremble and regret their life choices. Together."

The moment is interrupted when the door behind them opens. As if they heard he was talking about them, the team has appeared. Which causes PAL to let go instantly and retreat most of the metal in the blink of an eye.

"I hope we aren't disturbing." Patches giggles.

"Was that an attempt at ambiguity there, Specialist?" PAL replies quickly to cover it up.

"Maybe."

PAL is amused by it before he turns to Trevor.

"Sergeant. It is good to see you standing. How is the pain?"

"A massive pain in my ass. But otherwise manageable. Would you mind if we steal Phantom from you real quick? We need him for the meeting."

The green starts to fade.

"Oh… yes. I would have almost forgotten. I suppose it matters little what my opinion is in this matter. Roger- I mean, Phantom. Good luck with the meeting. I will await the results here."

PAL then attempts to float away but Phantom is not done with him yet. He grabs PAL by the handle and turns him back to him.

"Regardless of the outcome, I'll remain your partner. How exactly? We'll figure that out when we get there. See you soon buddy."

He then plants a kiss on PAL's eye before letting him go and joining up with Nova 7. He waves one last time before the door closes behind him. Leaving PAL alone and feeling bittersweet. But he knows it is necessary. So he returns to the window and stares out of it again. To pass the time.

Trying his best not to think too much about that meeting. Despite its importance, as it would dictate whether or not PAL should remain in Nova 7 or he should be kicked out officially for his actions that compromised Tacker Field and caused unnecessary death. The discussion that follows behind those closed doors remains civil if passionate.

"He caused so much harm and damage though!" Calamity argues.

"It was an order he was given, it's true. But something like this is beyond what I can forgive. He made all of us think that he was working with the Aparoid that wanted nothing more than to annihilate us and cause untold suffering throughout Lylat." Patches says, going along with Calamity's point.

"That may be so, but in the end he helped save all of those. He played that bastard for a complete fool from the beginning." Phantom brings up in return.

"Of course you would be on his side." Calamity sighs.

"Call it loyalty to a friend." Phantom counters icy, as the dog responds very maturely by sticking out her tongue.

"Phantom is right though." Kip chimes in.

"While I disagree with the way he revealed his triple agent status, I don't think he couldn't have done it any better. Not only did we kill off its entire mercenary capacity, we also found out who was behind all those Aparoid-related travesties. From the weapons trading to the desecration of bodies and all the way to its location and final back-up plan."

"At the very least he could've told us! Especially considering his already shaky position in the team." Patches states.

"That may be so, but you guys forgave me to a certain extent regarding my role in this whole thing. Why not grant PAL the same privilege?"

"With all due respect, Phantom. Your role didn't require you to try and pretend to be overtaken by a previously thought dead bug race hellbent on consuming Lylat." Trevor brings up.

"Exactly. The least he could've done is tell us."

"But Calamity; he had orders not to. So did I." Phantom notes.

"If he told you, it could've all fallen apart. Imagine if he had told everyone? If he was allowed to? Could you have played your role so perfectly? Remember; that Aparoid had eyes and ears pretty much everywhere it wanted to look. And PAL had to accommodate."

Not to say that the rest cannot act, but the Aparoid was clever and had clearly understood the concept of emotional manipulation. So any discrepancy could have been detected, causing the Aparoid to perhaps bolt.

"I can't believe I'm saying this but Phantom is right; PAL was following orders and I believe that the way he conducted himself… he couldn't have done it any better." Patches concludes.

It is very clear that there are two sides to this. And neither side is willing to budge on the matter. So Trevor cuts out the middleman. He hits the table with his hand to silence everyone else. Not out of anger but to make sure everyone stops talking.

"Gents. Arguing like this clearly has no purpose. I suggest we go to the voting right away. Since we are with just us five, at least three votes in favor of either stay or leave are needed. All in agreement?"

They all nod.

"Good. Then let's start."

While this is going on, PAL is still staring out into the stars. While doing so however, he kept getting distracted by what is inside of him. He can barely even remember the last time he looked so deep into himself. Because it had always disgusted him. And it still does to a degree. But when he looks past the ugly, he can see a blue so beautiful and pulsing with life and hope. Each time he sees past the surface, it brings him nothing but happiness. He wonders if this is what people mean with the concept of a "soul". Or perhaps that is something he will need to look into more.

Regardless, he is pleased with this discovery. It keeps his mind off the inevitable for now. Then the door opens and he is startled by this. However, it is not his team that has entered. It is the Major and the Lieutenant. Unexpected by not unwelcome.

"Major Rothlinghe. Lieutenant Warden. How can I help you?" he greets them while turning around and hovering towards them, stopping at a respectable distance.

"I see the vote has not yet been decided. Good. Then I'll speak freely. I want to propose something to you, PAL. If you are open to it, of course."

"I am, Major."

"Good. Then hear me out. Should you get the bad news that you're no longer a part of Nova 7, then I believe we can still use you. I say "I believe", but I know for sure. PAL, you are a miracle with computers. Whereas I'm a complete debacle. It's true; just ask my big friend next to me."

The Major's remark makes the Lieutenant chuckle in agreement.

"I suck at them, frankly. But from what I've seen from you, is nothing short of amazing. Therefore I want you to work for me when this doesn't work out. You'll report strictly to me. No one will know about your continued involvement with Nova 7. Because it'll not be strictly with Nova 7. You will serve the entirety of the Cornerian war machine. As an early warning system to start off with. Given that our current early warning system has proven to be… just pants." the Major sighs trying to keep it casual.

"And that is when it is working properly." the Lieutenant then chimes in.

"I know that you'll be so much more and so much better. You'll be assisting our units in getting positioned and detecting possible threats yet beyond our reach. This includes using Nova 7 of course as well. But you may not speak about this at all. You'll report to me and to no one else. I know I told you and the rest that there will be more transparency. But this wouldn't concern them directly and therefore will not be on their radar. Meaning that only you and I will know about this agreement." the Major finishes explaining.

PAL thinks about it for a moment but then spots one, tall mistake in the Major's reasoning.

"What about the Lieutenant then?"

"What about him? He knows when to keep his beak shut. Occasionally."

Another chortle is heard from the big bird. It is clear that the idea has promise but it is also very young and not that well thought out yet. A noble initiative but the idea of having to lie does not fill him with much confidence. Considering that he had to keep up appearances before and that led him to where he is now.

"Thank you for the offer, Major. Should I get the bad news… then I will consider it."

"Of course. I understand you'll need time to figure it out. Naturally, I hope you'll rejoin the team. But I have no influence on who goes and who stays. That is up to the people currently still discussing this matter."

PAL nods. However, as he does, the door opens behind the Major and the Lieutenant. And this time, it is Nova 7. It seems they have reached a verdict.

"Ah, Sergeant Trevor. I hope it doesn't matter that we decided to pay PAL a visit in your absence?" the Major greets tactfully.

"Of course not. In fact, I believe it's a good thing that you both are here. It saves us the trouble of informing you afterwards."

Trevor's tone is rather neutral, not betraying any positivity nor negativity. Leaving the result of the vote ambiguous still. The door then closes behind the whole team as they stand as one, much like the result has been decided. Whatever it is, no matter what their individual choices were, they stand together behind the end result.

"PAL. Please come closer to us." Trevor beckons.

PAL follows this instruction, making sure to maneuver around the Major and the Lieutenant before stopping about three paces before Trevor. His facial expression is just as neutral as his vocal tone, which is slightly unnerving to PAL as this is something he has not seen from the Sergeant.

"We have debated fiercely but in the end, some parties could not be convinced of the other's right. So we called for a vote right away. And the vote has decided…"

His straight poker face then turns into a smile.

"... that you stay. PAL, you're back into Nova 7. Not just as a part of 7-5, but as your own individual and now-official designation. Welcome back, 7-6."

PAL's emote light turns from white, to purple, to yellow which discolors into orange before being completely overtaken by green. He can almost not believe his equivalent of ears.

"Just know that it was a narrow win. Three to two. I will not name any names; just know that for some of us, you'll need to prove your worth and earn their trust again."

Although he has a good idea who voted against him, he will not bring it up. He understands that despite them not wanting him in the team, in the end they stand behind the decision since the majority does want him in. He is however speechless as some pure, glitched gibberish comes out of him before he can correct himself.

"T… thank you so much. Everyone. I will. I will earn your trust. I will work to gain this with you, whoever you are. And I will prove to all of you, that the already present trust is not misplaced. I… am at a loss for words."

"There's a first time for everything." Calamity says rather pepped up before giving Phantom a shove in the back.

"Go get your friend, you fool."

She gives him a wink before Phantom follows her advice and embraces his floating metal buddy. Which is followed by applause from both Nova 7 and its superiors.

- Trevor

After this, Nova 7 was whole again. More than whole; it gained an additional team member even later on. Not by choice unfortunately but it was a sacrifice that needed to be made to satisfy the bureaucratic nightmare that is the overarching command structure. It also caused the Major a lot more paperwork to deal with as well.

Before all of this however, Trevor went through the medical wringer. For a second time in almost a year. So it's understandable that the Major has had enough paperwork for a lifetime. His annoyance was nothing compared to the effort Trevor had to put in to get back into shape. The amount of treatments that were still awaiting him.

In hindsight, it didn't take all that long. Especially in comparison to his previous trauma. However, bones and muscles seemed to heal slower than organ tissue. That, or medical technology has progressed quite a lot since then...

Back to my original point; in hindsight, it didn't take all that long. But in the moment, it sure felt like it.

With the amount of antibiotics that coursed through his system on a daily basis. Followed by blood transfusions after blood transfusions. They were literally scrubbing his veins clean using fluid. Each procedure would take hours and made him feel like his whole body was on fire. All because that Aparoid virus realized it couldn't win so it went full scorched earth. If it couldn't have Trevor's body, then no one could. Hence the reason why even PAL almost lost control towards the end, because he didn't account for the virus turning into an elephant in a china shop.

So while the procedures were continuously uncomfortable, they only took several weeks to take effect. Instead of taking multiple months. And he was also lucky that his body accepted the reconstructed kidney as he was sort of an unknowing guinea pig for that procedure. In the end, it was a happy ending. And once he was back to his old self again, he continued to lead Nova 7 with his new, ceremonial rank along with his loyal teammates.

They even managed to "recruit" that new member as Nova 7-7. Although, much like Phantom had at the start, integrating into a team like that is hard. Whereas that white vulpine joined because of their leader's recommendation, this one was not. And that made it even tougher. Eventually, they proved they could handle themselves and resistance towards them slowly melted away. Until they were only stronger because of the new addition.

This continues for many, many years. Trevor got married to Calamity. So did Patches eventually with Damian. Having many adventures we are likely never going to privy to because of their classified status. Who knows what will be revealed to a humble journalist like myself? But even to something this good, must come an end. Because the more enemies they managed to repel, the less potential enemies were likely to try. And eventually, what they fought for, was established for longer than a year. Even several years. Peace in Lylat.

It's a strange sentence to say, I know. But it happened. And when a specialized team like this is unable to do anything, they start looking for alternatives. Perhaps plans made earlier can now come to fruition. Or offers made that seemed unattractive before, are now very attractive. Hence why, fifteen years later, this happened:

- Patches (15 years)

"Hey Trevor! I figured I'd at least leave you this message. Remember how you told me yesterday to think it all over? Yeah, uhm… I gotta admit something. I didn't register a single thing about that whole conversation. One ear in, the other ear out. Don't get me wrong; it isn't because I've grown to hate you. On the contrary. I just… already made up my mind. And I know you know this as well. So. My decision is final; I'm leaving Nova 7. And I'm gonna pick up being a housewife. After all, raising a daughter is not going to be easy. No matter if she is adopted or not. It's gonna be tougher now that she knows that bunny plus bird doesn't equal a fox. And I know what you're already thinking: "Oh that's not very progressive of you, Ashley." If it at all soothes you, I did it because I wanted it. Not because of some gender role or because Damian forced me to. Trust me, if he did that, then Colonel Clef can come pick up his friend after I've beaten him to the curb. But in all seriousness, this is what I want. And I know by doing this, I'm hurting you. Because you saw me as your successor. Or even your superior in some ways. Believe me, you taught me so much. Gave me so much love and respect I could never ever begin to repay. And asked for nothing in return. Even after all those years. You're a true friend Trevor. My one and only 1. And of course, if you're still inclined, godfather to my daughter. … Oh, hear me just start to tear up, jeez! This choice isn't easy for me either. But eventually, it had to be made. Despite how much it hurts, I believe it's for the best. For your new successor, I think Phantom is your best bet. I've seen how that man looks at you sometimes. If that ain't love, then I don't know what is. … yeah, is there anything else to say? Oh! Know that even though I quit from being a soldier or a worker in general, know that I'll never quit you. Should you need me, no matter where, no matter when, call me and I'll be there ASAP. That's a promise. Earned in blood. I guess I'll see you tomorrow then to make it official. Till then and take care buddy."

- Phantom (17 years)

"Morning Sarge! Ah… fuck! I keep calling you "Sarge" or "Sergeant". Even though I know damn well that you haven't been a Sergeant for a while now. Sorry, Captain! Or just, Trevor. My best friend. And because you are, I'm gonna deliver this to you without beating around the bush; I'm retiring from Nova 7. Just don't tell Nelson yet; I wanna tell him myself. Anywho, PAL and I are going commercial! It seems that his "infinite potential" has struck a chord with various big tech companies that wanna use our ideas. Well, they wanna use PAL's ideas. But his ideas come with one big stipulation; me. As his "advisor". And because I can already smell the opportunities, I'd be a fool not to take it. Not that… oh no. I didn't mean to suggest that I'd be a fool for staying with you. Let me restart; I'm leaving Nova 7 and it isn't because of you. Just a new path for me and for PAL. I… I know that after Patch left two years ago you've been extra protective with keeping the team together. Even if you knew it was a fruitless endeavor in the end. But you tried your best. And I appreciate that. And I appreciate everything else you've ever done for me. You've stood by my side, no matter where I was. You showed me how to be myself and you never gave up on me. Regardless of how stupid I was acting. I… can't possibly describe how you've changed my life. Thank you for the trust, for the love, for the friendship and for being a fantastic superior. And in my heart, you'll always be the best Sarge out there. I'll have my resignation papers on your desk by eight sharp. Oh, and to make sure you guys aren't without an A.I. to keep you company, PAL has developed a sort of clone; BUD. Remember that name? Yeah, we got inspiration from that bastard in Sector X. BUD is pretty much like PAL, with the exception that he cannot talk nor have a mind of its own. But it'll do exactly what PAL does. At least then Nelly has more to do while we are gone, huh? But should you ever need me, call for me and PAL is likely listening after he's cloned a little piece of himself into the latest gadget that's going to be the hottest stuff since sliced bread. Het ga je goed, Trevor."

- PAL (17 years)

"Trevor. I know that Phantom has already said his goodbyes for the both of us. It is a habit he is likely going to hold on to. A downside of having an organic brain, I suppose. Then again, I feel left out regarding a few other aspects of behavior. I feel but yet do I really? It is a strange question. One I believe in time I might finally answer as I, day by day, unravel it more and more. This has allowed me to come to terms with change but also to understand better that with change, also comes a goodbye to the old. To what is known. To what might be comfortable to. Yes, I have left my presence with you in the form of BUD, but I realize that you appreciate my presence at Nova 7. My input, character and knowledge. I have rarely felt so appreciated nor motivated and I do not think I will ever feel that again. Trevor, you made me feel a part of the team. You made me feel like a full member even when I was in the infancy of my creation and feared by the others. You never shied away from me and embraced me. Even at my most vulnerable. And I will never forget your kindness. Nor your impeccable sense of humor or even your occasional bloodlust. Lead with confidence, Sir. You are more than capable of it."

- The Major, Clef (17,5 years)

"Dear Nova 7. I'm writing this letter for whoever is curious enough to see if there's anything left of my old office. I know I've already given a massive, big speech but I wanted to emphasize a few more things. The now-Major Damian Warden will take over my position as the head honcho of Nova 7. He will continue our effective cooperation with the Cornerian Navy and with Peter from MilCiv. I just hope he doesn't turn my office into another tea drinking room, the pretentious pompous twat. And if you're reading this Damian, no, I am not taking that back.

I have proudly led Nova 7 for about eighteen years as its Captain, Major and finally Lieutenant-Colonel. Effectively taking charge of its operational status seventeen-and-a-half years ago. I've seen people come and go, although I have the feeling that the most recent developments have led some people to believe that Nova 7 is crumbling apart. And these people aren't necessarily wrong. But I believe whole-heartedly that we'll brave this storm. Only to come out of the other side stronger than ever.

For the particular person who believes the latter the strongest… in case you're reading this Trevor, I share your feelings. Ashley was a founding member and Roger, along with PAL, are sorely missed. Despite their replacements being a good fit, it's not the same. They are different people, who bring different things to the table. It feels less and less like the old times. That's progress, my friend. And we? We are going to be old relics soon enough. Perhaps revered, perhaps mocked. Who knows? The least we can do is leave a damn good impression. And I'm sure you'll leave one hell of an impact.
Farewell."

- Kip (18 years)

"Hi Trevor. Yeah, I think you can hear it coming. Another bites the dust. Although I'm not sure what kind of dust I'll actually bite, I know I won't do it under the banner of Nova 7. Or Corneria for that matter. I'm gonna go back to being a full-time mercenary. The market is getting more lucrative at the outer rim of Lylat. New colonies, new opportunities, new adventures. You know how I am; I can't sit on the sidelines. And I'm glad you accept that about me. Don't think for a second it's easy for me to leave my partner behind. I would've asked you to come along but I already knew the answer; you're a textbook soldier. You're not gonna come along when you have that steady base. And I accept that about you. The past eighteen years have been fantastic. I've learned so much and met so many new friends. Forging bonds that will never break. Like the one I have with you. Through hell and back. Always. So should you need me… I'll do you a solid and offer my services for free for you. Forever. And I'll always carry you with me. In thought, in my heart and whenever I pull the trigger on some dumbass. See you around, space soldier."

- Calamity (18,5 years)

"Hi sweety! I know we have already talked about it and I'm still so glad you agreed. That way I'll still be around and you won't have to be so down about another member leaving. Pretty sure I'm the last one of the original five to remain. Or was it six now? Nevermind. I'll still be around to annoy you. And make sure that you and the rest of your sorry bunch of losers you call a team can handle themselves once they are without a ranged weapon. Oh yes, I won't go easy on any of you! Only once blood has been spilled and your teeth are on the floor, will you be allowed to leave my dojo! … you know I'm joking right? About that last part? Cause I know you take things very literally sometimes. Hi hi! Anywho, what do you want for dinner tonight? Since we'll both be at base, perhaps I can cook something better than that poor excuse of a lunch lady. To be honest, Mariet was a ton better than this new one. She strikes me more as a health guru. In other words; your personal nightmare. I guess the budget cuts have finally hit all of us. Let me know! Love you!"

- The Lieutenant, Damian (19 years)

"Members of the most excellent Nova 7. I have had the privilege to lead you in the wake of my leaving friend and comrade in arms. And I have enjoyed every part of it. However, life calls me in a different direction. In the two or so short but lovely years I served as your Major, I have had many tribulations. Many having to do with my age and the lack of capability because of that. Not to say that I am currently crumbling but I know when enough is enough. Hence why I am leaving this position and going for an easier desk job with Command. Despite my gripes with them, they are the only way I will be able to be useful. I have the perfect replacement for my position however; he is still younger than I am and still full of vigor for Nova 7. Captain Trevor DeLange! The original, founding member of Nova 7 along with myself, the then Captain Rothlinghe and the various other legacy members. With him at the helm, I am certain nothing will go wrong and we will go into the next years with pride and effectiveness. Learn from his experience and example. And see why following him into the fires of hell, is probably the best thing you could ever do in your military career. To all of you and to Nova 7; Forever!"

- A New Dawn

And so ends the reign of the original Nova 7 team. Trevor resigned his position as Captain and leader within the next year. Despite all the encouragement he got and with all of the might he could muster, he simply couldn't anymore. Everyone he was once with, had left the team or the military entirely. He could no longer ignore that gnawing feeling in his stomach that this was no longer his place to be. The Nova 7 he knew, was dead and gone. He appointed the person that was forced to join them, given that he had the most experience.

So 20 years after Nova 7's first declaration of "Operational", it was no longer his. It was a new team with new faces. The only consistent member that remained, was Nelson. Who had too much fun directing everything from his turret. Which had expanded quite a lot since its original inception, finally including a built-in toilet.
Now nearing his late 40's, perhaps it was for the best. He could spend his focus on time on things that energized him. Something he could make his own again. What exactly he started doing, was not revealed. But what I do know, is that in the end, even if it wasn't his own any longer, he was beyond proud of his creation. Something he spent so long on, both in his head and by putting it out there. And I could never have done it without those that cared enough about his weird ass to support him all the way through. He could never thank them enough either.

…

…

And that's number three down! Nothing needed to be censored this time. Impressive. Budget cuts hit you guys too, huh?

…

Oh yeah, no need to tell me. Well, I might be seeing you again once new stuff gets released. And I have a feeling, that it might be faster than I can imagine. But who knows what the future holds?