Family Court
Nashville, Tennessee
Early November 2017
I didn't expect to be back in my hometown like this.
Ever.
But, since you couldn't hold a court case in the Praesidium, and my family's home was technically still here, the case had to be here.
We'd been teleported in, and the courthouse had been cleared because of 'renovations'. Well, for this section. The only people who knew were the judge, the staff, and us.
The courtroom was empty save for me, Caelior, Harley, Amanda, and a duo of ADVENT Peacekeepers who were standing very attentively, fixated solely on the Ethereal guest. Caelior and I sat together, while our 'legal team' sat behind us.
You ready? I telepathically spoke to him.
Yes. Uncertain as to what will be asked, but it cannot be worse than a battlefield..
Wish I had your calm right now.
The door opened, and a judge walked in.
"Please stand." One Peacekeeper declared loudly. "Court is now in session, Honorable Judge Caroline Smith presiding." We all did so, Caelior the last one to do so.
"Please be seated." The judge said, her accent very similar to me. She looked a bit old - mid sixties, maybe? She didn't seem fazed by the fact an Ethereal was in the courtroom.
"This courtroom is now in session, please do not speak unless requested. Today this courtroom covers War Orphan Adoption Case Number 35893." She shuffled through some papers, then looked at us. "May the person interested in adopting please stand?"
I did so.
"You are Dawn?"
"That's right, ma'am."
"Well," She looked at me. "I've looked at your case. It's unusual, but I can't say it's not solid. I suppose I should feel honored to be the first judge to ever cover a case like this."
All of us chuckled, save Caelior.
"Why do you wish to adopt Mr. Caelior here?" She began.
"Ahem. To put it simply, your Honor, the two of us are very good friends. We have served together for a while, and we in a way feel like family," I answered. "With the way this war could go, we see this as the next step. He's not had a family in a very long time, and wishes to have one again. Our lives would feel more complete."
"Not unusual," she pulled up another piece of paper. "Mr. Caelior, I'd like to ask you a few questions. Miss Conley, you may sit back down."
He followed her instructions.
"Mr. Caelior, how old are you in human years?"
"One hundred and thirty, Lawgiver."
She raised an eyebrow "Lawgiver?"
"My apologies. It is the term my people use for someone in your position."
"That's fine," she answered. "Just use the title 'your Honor' for now. Ethereal maturity is something that is less thoroughly documented than I'd prefer, but I understand you would be considered a young adult among your people?"
He nodded. "That is correct. Imperial processes required a century before recognizing adult maturity, and another century before full maturity. I would be considered a juvenile adult, but not a full one yet. Standards changed before the fall of the Empire.."
"In what way?"
"There are exceptions for artificial conception," he said. "By the end of our war, Ethereals who were fully mature were created, and juvenile adults were employed in multiple services and military capacities . Norms have shifted, but I was born before those standards were imposed."
She nodded. "And as the adoptee in this case, do you believe that Miss Conley is able to fulfill her duties of being in position to adopt you as a sibling?"
"I do. Though she is young, she has proven herself as a soldier and friend. I have confidence that she is responsible and diligent for any requirements a sibling might be needed for."
"What characteristics does she display?"
"She is very caring and empathetic," he answered. "She has proven herself to be very adept when it comes to navigating my integration into an alien society. Her family is similarly kind and welcoming, your Honor."
She moved on. "Your file says your parents were killed, yet not in this war."
"That is right. They were not killed in this one. However, I cannot speak more as that is classified."
"It isn't, but XCOM provided me with a summary highlighting the major points. It is sufficient, and both XCOM and ADVENT officials have verified it as legitimate." She looked at Harely. "Mr. George, as their legal representative, what is your current opinion on Dawn's status as a possible adopter?"
He stood up. "I believe she's competent and can handle herself, your honor. Both have numerous combat duties and have operated well within XCOM. They have no criminal records, and are law-abiding citizens."
"Very well." She looked at Amanda. "Miss Adams, what are the current conditions of their service?"
This was going to be a long day.
"And so, I believe that though this case is unusual, I see no reason why this adoption process should not happen." Harely sat down. The judge nodded.
"After careful consideration of the situation, I recognize War Orphan Adoption Case Number 35893 is now legally recognized and begin the process."
I almost jumped out of my chair with joy, catching myself from squealing. Caelior simply shook, the air around him glowing slightly purple.
"Though the circumstances are unusual, I've had many cases in this courtroom far stranger. I've had honest-to-god custody fights, drug addicts, domestic violence, and what have you. But, you two seem to obviously care for each other, and judging by your situation, I can't say no." She said. "You will now begin the period of placement. We will work with XCOM to fulfill the necessary social observations. You will check in with a designated representative several times before finalization."
She hit her gavel. "This court is now adjourned." She got up and left the courtroom.
I leapt out of my seat and hugged Harley, causing him to nearly drop his papers.
"Sorry!" I said. "I'm just-god, I'm so happy right now!"
"Hey, you did fine."
"But you handled all the legal stuff! This is all you, man!"
Caelior got up and walked over to us."Mister George, thank you." His voice sounded almost completely different. His tone was much lighter. "This…is a great moment. I have not had a true family for many years. Not a recognized one."
Then his voice cracked.
My heart almost skipped a beat when that happened. Even when he'd cried in front of me before, he'd never done it. I felt his mind, and it was like a storm of emotions, yet he wasn't angry at all. It was a mix of happiness and sorrow.
And I knew exactly why.
"Thank you for giving me a chance." He said, putting all four hands together and taking a bow. "I will not forget this."
Harely blushed. "Thank you. I'm happy to help with your case. You've been an excellent client."
Amanda said nothing, just smiling and nodding in the background.
We left the courthouse as quickly as we came. A finely-dressed British woman made a portal to take Harley and Amanda back to their legal offices, and a second to take Caelior and I home. We exited right inside of his room, leaving us alone.
He knelt on the ground, removing his helmet. His eyes were shinier than usual, like he was on the verge of tears, though not quite. I got to my knees, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"I-" He began. "Thank you. I mean it. For everything. I am glad to have a family, and that you are part of it now."
"Hey." I hugged him. "I'm going to be better than them, okay? I swear. I'm not going to leave you ever. Ever. I promise you. Every day, every holiday, every birthday. I'm going to do my damndest to give you the life you deserve."
He said nothing.
"It's okay. You can let it out."
And he did.
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida - United States of America
Early November 2017
"Everyone appears present," the Commander stated. "We can get started."."
The entire squad stood around the Commander was physically absent from the air force base, but he appeared via hologram. Also within the room were two ADVENT Generals who'd been introduced to them, Angela Cambeiro, who led the exiled Cuban Legion, and Gael Ros, who commanded the Salvadorian Legion.
Angela appeared to be the main commander of this operation, though Gael was clearly working very closely with her. Gathered around the holotable, they were ready to begin.
Angela cleared her throat. "First, let me thank you Commander, and everyone present, for your support for this operation. Without further ado, we'll get started. General Ros, you can begin the briefing."
"Thank you," Gael stepped forward. "A brief overview of Cuba's place within the Collective's strategy, as far as we can discern. Cuba currently acts as a major strategic location, which can be used to launch offensives against the Southeast United States, and the greater Caribbean."
The holotable highlighted several points of high risk, too many red dots for anyone to feel comfortable with. "They have the additional ability to interdict any shipping through the region, something they've been performing regularly. While we've adjusted our supply lines, it's an inconvenience that we want to permanently resolve."
"Finally," he said. "ADVENT Intelligence indicates that the Collective is conducting research on Cuba. We don't know what, and we don't know why, but there are shipments of traditional scientific equipment, materials, and scientists. In short, Cuba's reclamation would be a clear strategic victory."
"This is the primary thrust of Operation Fierce Trogon," Angela continued. "The secondary thrust will be against Hispaniola, but the focus of the Collective efforts in this region is centered on Cuba. Your role will be to infiltrate the island, complete your objectives, which will be followed with a naval invasion."
"You will not be the only operatives on Cuba during this initial phase," the Commander said. "Lancer Squads will also be operating on the island, sabotaging sensors, static defenses, and anti-air defenses. Your targets will be in the heart of the Collective's operation. General Ros."
"As the Commander says," Ros manipulated the holotable, and the map shifted to a zoomed-in map of Cuba, with many highlighted areas. "Most of the Lancer operations will be focused on the obvious targets. Static defenses, Collective officers, sensors, all things the Commander said. Your primary objectives are here."
All areas except two stopped being highlighted. One looked like a farming plantation, and the other was some sort of port.
"The first target is the town of Venezuela," Ros said. "Historically, it was a small farming village with a history of sugar production. However," several captured images were projected, revealing large construction equipment and a heavy military presence. "In the past few months, large amounts of construction and military effort has gone into this place. Ground-penetrating radar has also identified a large dig site underneath it. We believe this is where the Collective built their primary research hub."
"And the other?" Meru Paras, our Squad Overseer, asked. He'd been quiet during this entire briefing.
"A repurposed Andromedon Aquatic Forces base located in Manzanillo," Ros continued "It began construction during the early stages of our Africa campaign, but when their forces got decimated, construction transitioned to something more useful to them. It now operates as a major airbase, managed primarily by Andromdons."
"Which Union?" Paras asked. "Or standard Federation soldiers?"
"The latter," Ros confirmed. "They're doubtless relying on some of the Unions to provide the materials, but only dedicated Federation soldiers have been spotted. As far as we know, this is the only place where the Andromedons are in force."
"Andromedons? That is nothing new." Cairu - who was Nartha's sister, apparently, spoke up.
"The Andromedons aren't the notable part, it's the degree of activity," Angela said. "Shipments are large and regular. The Gateway Network on Cuba is either small or insufficient, and the Collective has expended significant efforts to keep a clear lane of traffic from ground to orbit."
"Their main supply hub," Paras rubbed his chin. "Risky, putting it near the coast."
"It is, but a risk that benefits us," Angela smiled. "They have good reason to be confident - a conventional invasion would go badly, which is why we're launching the operation in this way. These are your two objectives, the port first, followed by the research lab."
"Obviously, this is going to be a difficult mission, and I've authorized the usage of some additional tools for usage in this operation," the Commander said.
He looked at me. "Dawn is using the Nanoblade, but there are a few more developments."
A large vehicle appeared on a TV screen, making everyone's - mine included - eyes widen.
"Is that a submarine?" Mila Diamond, our MELD operator, asked.
"When did we get that?" Asked Braxton Beahan, our resident telekinesis - and nanokine, apparently.
"It was finished last week, and you will utilize it on its maiden voyage," the Commander said, seeming to enjoy the reaction. "You can thank Zhang for the investment. On that, I introduce the first of the Aluma-class XCOM Attack and Infiltration submarines, the Aluma."
I squinted my eyes. "I'm assuming this'll be our main base of operations for this mission?"
The Commander chuckled. "Maybe in future operations, it is able to hold a gateway, and future iterations will be able to deploy a modified Skyranger. This time, you'll be using it to get on the island. You'll launch from the Aluma, but you'll be operating on the island."
"The Aluma will accompany the ADVENT submarines who will be taking the Lancers to their own staging points," Ros said. "And on a personal note, I hope ADVENT takes some inspiration from your design, Commander."
"Thank our allies," the Commander said. "And the Collective schematics that they unwittingly donated to help refine our designs." Both Generals and the rest of those present cracked a few smiles and chuckles.
I personally didn't say anything, but I was amazed. I'd always wondered if we'd ever get a boat, and I guess this was the answer to that question. It was gorgeous- gray and angular, not unlike a stealth fighter, with a conn tower and everything. I could make out the engines, but I couldn't see any propellers. I could also sort of see where the torpedoes would be launched from, but I was too busy staring at the whole ship. This thing was awesome!
"Anything else we need to know?" Blake Harkin, our medic, asked the Generals?
"That once you set foot on the island, you're operating on a timetable," Angela said. "We estimate that within twenty-four hours the Collective will know what is happening and mobilize a response. If the initial objectives aren't completed, reinforcements aren't going to be immediate. Keep that in mind."
"Understood," Peras nodded. "We'll have the base neutralized within that period."
"Then I think that's everything pertinent," Angela nodded to Tos. "Your submarine is in the harbor, and now that you're here, we can initiate preparations for the operation. Once you're on the submarine, the ship'll link up with the fleet. Admiral Davidson, the operational fleet commander, will give you a tactical briefing."
"Then we'll head there immediately," Peras said.
"Good luck," the Commander said, saluting them, which we returned. "XCOM out."
His hologram vanished,
And Peras addressed us directly. "Alright everyone, you know what to do. You've got five minutes to collect yourselves and conduct any final business, then we head out. Copy?"
"Copy!" We affirmed, and broke to briefly do our business before we commenced the operation.
Well, that was interesting. I wasn't expecting us to get a goddamn submarine, but here we were.
Time to set sail, I guess.
XCOM Submarine Base, Classified Location
Early November 2017
As a person who'd never been in a submarine before, I was wholly impressed.
The captain, a Frenchman named Beniot Gerard, had been more than happy to give us the tour, and it'd certainly been an experience. We all had our own little rooms - though they were pretty small, a service bay for an escape pod, , and even a (also cramped) mess hall - everything you'd expect a submarine to have.
We even got to see the reactor and deployment bay where we'd be deployed from underwater. Something we'd be utilizing very soon. As small and cramped as everything was, it was apparently very spacious compared to others according to Gerard, due to the small crew.
It was all like something out of a movie.
"She's quite impressive, no?" Gerard said proudly, spreading his arms. He'd been doing this for a long time - his beard hair was gray, and you could see wrinkles emerging on his face.
"XCOM's R&D's been busy." Peras said. "I'm glad to be on this submarine's maiden voyage. Do we get to smash her side with champagne?"
Gerard laughed. "My apologies monsieur, but we did that an hour ago. We've got a schedule to make. Are you ready to proceed?"
He nodded.
"Very well. We'll be joining the strike force shortly," he said. "Use the Gateway in the back to board the flagship for the meeting. I understand the Admiral wants to synchronize before formally commencing the operation. Anything else?"
No one said anything.
"Very well." He walked over to a computer and hit a few buttons. "Hang on. This may get a little tipsy."
The submarine suddenly shook as it began moving, and a few minutes later it was replaced with a loud hum as the submarine began moving. Looking at the display radar, there were quite a few other ships - surfaced and otherwise - nearby.
That was quick.
The intercom blared. "Captain, Admiral Davidson is radioing us."
"Put him through.
"X.S. Aluma, this is Admiral Davidson," a voice said. "Right on schedule. Glad that you didn't sink on your first trip."
"You wound me, monsieur," Gerald said with mock hurt. "So little faith in XCOM engineering."
"My apologies for my lack of faith," Davidson said dryly. "Is the XCOM Squad with you?"
"They are. Got the briefing from General Cambeiro and Ros."
"Good. Gateway is synchronized when they're ready. We have some things to discuss before the operation commences."
X.S. George Washington
Several Miles off the Coast of Florida
Early November 2017
The entire team gathered around the main table of the somewhat cramped flagship bridge. The Admiral stood at the front, looking at the map laid out in front of them.
"I appreciate XCOM's support for this operation." He began once introductions were made. "This is a risky, complicated operation, and it's good to know we have the best to make it succeed."
"Have there been updates since we arrived?" Peras asked.
"No, fortunately," the Admiral said. "We have no indications that the Collective is aware of what is coming, even if they are most certainly tracking the invasion force. While they almost certainly expect an invasion will come - they don't believe it is imminent."
"Good," Peras said. "Anything on the ground that's relevant? We have our primary objectives."
"Yes, there are a few things I will note," Davidson said. "Personnel-wise, the main infantry defenses appear to be Mutons, and in some localized areas, Andromedons. Fewer Runianarch than we'd expect, but Mutons are better suited towards the defensive operations the Collective expects. Orient yourselves appropriately."
"Do they have any special forces? Psions?" Peras asked.
"We know there are Sectoids, but no indication of a Hive Commander or equivalent," Davidson shook his head. "They're postured to defend against an invading fleet, not a conventional army, and not special operations. As impressive as this fleet is, the Collective has successfully turned Cuba into a fortress. A direct invasion would be a bad repeat of the Pacific theater."
As they continued, I looked out the windows of the bridge, taking in the sights. Dozens of ships lingered in the harbor, and several Ravens sat on the airfield. There were some Priests there, too, talking and-
Wait.
One of them had a very familiar mind, like I'd felt it before. I took a closer look with my telepathy.
Was that the one from the Hiveship? No..
My eyes widened as I realized who it was.
Mary?
She's here?
Here, for this campaign?
It couldn't be…
"...and that should be it. Now that you're here, the Lancer teams will be mobilized. No more than a day or two, and the operation will commence," Davidson finished. "In the meantime, your people are excused to do what they want. Any questions, Overseer."
"No. Thank you for the overview." I heard Peras answer. "Everyone, we're dismissed! Head back to the Aluma at your discretion."
I turned around, walking over to him. "Sir, if you don't mind, I'll be a bit behind."
He looked at me, raising an eyebrow. "Oh?"
"There's a friend outside, all the way back from training," I said. "I'd like to talk to her."
He nodded. "Alright, but don't take too long. We have some things to discuss as a squad before the operation launches."
I nodded. "Understood sir. It won't be long."
"All good," he said. "Dismissed, Conley."
I walked towards her, staring at Mary through my helmet. Part of me wanted to turn around and walk away, but I knew I couldn't miss this opportunity. I hadn't seen her in person since…well, months at least. Seeing each other via video was one thing, but in person?
Don't mess this up. I said to myself as I closed my eyes for a moment. Please don't mess this up.
She noticed me, her eyes widening and snapping to a salute. "Sorry ma'am," she said, "I didn't see you enter."
Someone's gotten more professional.
"At ease, soldier." The default voice modulator was on, so all she heard was a heavily distorted voice. "I'm not an Overseer. That's not necessary."
"Sorry." She was exasperated. "I heard you guys were aiding us with this, but I didn't expect you guys to show up here in person. Y'all usually leave us grunts to the side."
"Of course." I replied. "I'd never leave you behind."
She cocked her head. "I'm sorry?"
"I wouldn't abandon you, Psion Stevens." I smiled under my helmet, trying to have a little fun with her.
She cocked her head. "You know my name?"
"Of course. I know someone who knows you."
"You know Dawn!?" She said with excitement.
"Of course. How could I not?"
I took off my helmet. "I'm her."
Her mouth dropped as she looked at me, taking a few steps back.
"Please don't fall off the ship," I said. "This armor's really heavy, and I don't want to pull you out."
"You-you're-"
I stepped forward and hugged her. "I'm so happy to finally see you in person, Mary. It's been so long, I'm sorry."
"You're squeezing me." She said, muffled by my armor. I released her, only to have her hug me back.
"Oh my god!" She almost shrieked. "It's really you! You're here!"
"I am." I said, trying to put on my best smile. "We're here together again."
After a minute of hugging, she released me, looking at me. "You look the same. I thought you'd be taller."
"Are you calling me short?"
She snickered. "And your armor!" She touched it with a finger. "It's so cool. You look like a Power Ranger!"
"That's actually not the first time I've been told that." I didn't mind her completely fangirling over my great armor.
"Are those nanomachines? Psi-grenades? Does this thing have any pockets? Wait. Wait! I have to ask."
"What?"
"Is it true that you can go to the bathroom in it?"
"That's the first question you ask about my armor?"
"I'm sorry I just have to know. I know you've had to see the meme about the armor having an auto-"
"Yes, I can go to the bathroom in this thing and it dissolves it."
"I am so jealous. Do you know how awkward this armor is to get off." She shook her arm. "This thing is so clanky sometimes it's not even funny!" She looked at my helmet. "Can I put that on for a second?"
"Sure. But if you drop it, your ass is on the line, country girl."
"Country girl? Please. You're from Tennessee!"
She rolled her eyes and put it on. It was a little too big for her head, and not compatible with her actual armor at all, so it looked just a bit oversized for her, not to mention clashed badly with the rest of the PRIEST gear.
"This is so cool! It's not even on!"
She took it off and gave it back to me. "Where's the rest of your people?"
"Back on our submarine, probably," I said. "But I heard you were here, and I thought it was only right to see meet me in person again."
She shook her head, her face turning red. "I'm sorry, I'm just-you're really here! You're standing here, in front of me, in person, and you've got it all. The guns, the gear…you really did it, Dawn."
I crossed my arms. "Did you think I wouldn't visit you, Mary? After everything?"
"I thought we'd never see each other again," she admitted. "We don't talk a lot anymore, and now that you're here with me, on this mission, I just can't wrap my head around it."
"It's okay." I said. "We're both here. My team's not doing anything for a while, so if you want to do anything, I'm here for it. Do you want to eat something?"
"I am a little hungry, but there is something I want to do."
"Yeah?"
"I'm part of a squad now, got set up about a month ago," she said. "Everyone there's my age, except for our leader. We call her Mom. No one believes I have a friend in XCOM. Would you mind coming down with me and proving I'm not a liar?"
"You want to show me off to your friends? Am I a trophy or something?" I leaned on the handrail. "And you call your squad leader 'mom?"
"Hey, it's a good nickname. She really is like a mom to us. And she actually does have kids back at home, so that helps," Mary said. "I think you'd like her."
"Thanks but no thanks. All the chicks I work with already try to be my mom. Back home, I'm like everyone's little sister."
"That's adorable." Mary giggled. "Come on, I promise it'll only be a few minutes."
Pretending to sigh in resistance, I let myself be dragged along to meet Mary's squad.
I followed Mary into the ship quarters, where she entered a small room with four other people in it. Three of them were clearly around Mary's age, while the fourth person was who I guessed was called 'Mom'.
"Come meet my friend, guys," she shouted, and all four of them looked up. One guy had bright red hair with freckles all over his face, another was an Asian girl with dark hair, and another guy- this one had a bionic eye and no hair, with a large scar on the top of his head.
"Mary, who is this?" The bionic-eyed guy. "And what kind of armor is that?"
She smiled widely. "This is my friend from XCOM I keep telling y'all about."
"Oh, that's a bunch of bullshit." The Asian girl said. "XCOM doesn't hire people that young. We all know."
"Nakamura, language." The older woman said in a firm voice. It was her turn to speak. "In all seriousness, ma'am, who are you and how did you get on this ship?"
I pulled out my holoprojector, displaying my ID with the confidential information redacted. They all looked at each other with widened eyes.
"Holy shit." The red-haired guy said, looking at before bursting into laughter. "That's an excellent fake!" He cackled.
"Dawn Conley, XCOM Telepath." I announced. "I've known Mary since we were roommates in Maine." I put a hand on her shoulder. "And I can assure you I'm very real."
"XCOM doesn't hire people that young." The Asian girl said. "Seriously Mary, good job. You almost got us there!"
'Mom', or whatever her name was, sat there silently. I think she'd realized that I wasn't a fake."
"I don't know, Samantha." I said. "Then I guess I wouldn't know about that time you earned a commendation from stopping someone from your Priest training from accidentally collapsing the places' roof. "
Her face went pale. "How..?"
I looked at the ginger kid. "Jimmy, I really wouldn't be talking about fakes, considering the picture of tha yacht your uncle supposedly bought you've been showing to everyone- who's in jail for tax evasion, by the way- was photoshopped."
"I knew it!" Mary shouted.
I looked at the guy with the bionic eye and didn't say anything. Looking at his robotic eye made me feel guilty for him - I didn't know whether it was due to a medical issue or a combat thing, so I didn't say anything.
Jimmy and Smanatha stared at me slack-jawed, while the bionic dude just snickered and shook his head. "Shoulda kept your mouth shut, man."
"You…you're actually…"
"She's in XCOM, all right." 'Mom' said, standing up, appraising me. "Telepath, are you?"
"Ninety." I said. "It gets you from place to place these days."
"Carmen Andrews, pleasure to meet you." She shook my hand. "Damn, guess XCOM's really amped up the recruiting, huh?" She looked at Mary. "Where did you meet again?"
"Government facility. Found her in a freezer next to Amelia Earhart and D.B. Cooper."
"Riiight." She nodded, looking back at me. "I didn't realize XCOM was going to be involved in whatever command in planning. Guessing you've got some time before XCOM's doing whatever it does?"
"Yep. Wanted to say hi to one of my best friends and meet her squad."
Mary looked at me with a joking expression, before making a fake pout. "One of my best friends? Who's the other?"
"An Ethereal."
The double takes everyone did in the room simultaneously was worth it.
"How was that impression?" I looked at her. She turned, guiding me away. "Be back later, guys." Once we were out of the room, she gave me a look. "Did you read their minds?"
I shook my head. "Nah. Manchurian Restraints. Think your boss picked up on that."
"Then how-"
"XCOM database. I remember how you'd talk about your friends and their stories. I did a little side research."
"You-" She gulped, snorting as she tried to muffle her laugh. "Oh god, that's hilarious."
"Eh, it wasn't much. C'mon." I said. "Let's go have some fun."
Mary stared at me.
I stared at Mary.
"I can't believe you did this to me." She hissed. "After all we've done, after all we've seen, you do this to me?"
"I'm sorry, Mary. But there's only one way this ends."
I placed the card down on the pile. "Plus four. No uno for you."
She rolled her eyes, picking four. "Damn you."
"Now I've got the cards. Reverse to yellow, aaaand…"
I put my card down. "Done!"
She threw her cards on the table. "You just used your X-Ray vision to win that, didn't you?"
I nodded. "Oh yeah. I definitely used my X-Ray vision."
She smiled. "Cheater."
"Hey, you tried."
"I appreciate you visiting me. This was fun."
"I wished we could meet more like this," I sighed. I" know I can't, being in XCOM and all."
"It's okay," she told me. "You're protecting the world from things I can't even comprehend, right?"
I didn't say anything, knowing how close she was to the truth.
"I know. I just wish we could do more than call each other."
"Don't feel guilty, okay? Your job's important, even more than mine."
"That means a lot to me, Mary." And really, it did. We were so separated, and I was afraid she'd be scornful towards me for it. But being here now, with you, it's really something."
"You think we'll see each other again?"
"I hope so."
"Just try not to die, okay?"
I smirked. "You know I can't guarantee that."
My comm beeped as I finished my sentence.
"Crap."
"XCOM?"
I nodded. "Gotta go."
She looked at me and nodded solemnly.
"I'll see you again. I promise, okay?"
She nodded. "Okay."
We hugged, wrapping our arms around one another for a minute before I let go.
"Duty calls. See you around."
And just like that, I was gone.
Near Jose Marti International Airport - Cuba
Early November 2017
"Everyone good?"
We nodded, crouched down on the beach, sand and water covering our suits as the extraction vehicle offshore disappeared into the water.
The beach that we'd landed on was a relatively short distance from our target. It was impossible to have continual surveillance along the entire coast, and Collective sensors weren't tuned for individual life forms. Mines and turrets were only a concern near fortified locations.
It would be a short hike, but we were in Cuba, with the Collective none the wiser. For now.
"Alright," Peras said. "From here, it's a straight shot to the airport. We keep low, move through the neighborhoods, and strike the base . Several Lancer teams should be linking up with us to support. Got it?"
More nods.
"Let's go."
We moved up the beach, going through a degrading neighborhood that was in the process of being demolished and rebuilt. It looked like most of it was military in intention, barracks, command centers, radar stations, and AA or artillery emplacements.
The Collective seemed intent on fully militarizing the island. No tourist traps anymore.
We moved past idle construction robots, following a road while laying low. There were Vitakarian and Andromedons around, but they were all asleep in their shelters. Outside the base, there was surprisingly little activity.
"Dawn, you sense anyone?" Peras asked as we got closer.
"No, Overseer. Well, not anyone close. There's a couple patrols here near a hospital." I squinted my eyes, reading one of the signs. "Apparently the beach is restricted due to shark attacks."
"Seriously?" Mila asked. I nodded. "Guy lost his whole leg."
"I have heard many stories from the place called Aus-Austry-what do you say?" Cairu asked.
"Australia. Let me guess, spiders?"
"Are those the small creatures with eight legs?"
"Right on the money."
I saw her briefly shiver. "Not all of this world is temperate. The heat, the creatures, I struggle to understand why Humans would live there."
"It actually started out as a prison colony." Braxton piped in. "The Brits used to put people there as a punishment."
"Ah. That makes far more sense," she answered promptly. "A fitting place of punishment."
We moved further inland, going through more flattened neighborhoods. The Collective had been serious about remodeling this place. What looked like a factory was being built on top of another neighborhood, with unfinished anti-air batteries circling it.
More and more patrols appeared, and I had to dedicate more time to guiding them away. It was nothing hard, just a mental nudge and a thought was all that was needed.
"Why is it so quiet?" I asked.
"They're not expecting an attack, I presume," Meru said. "It's also the middle of the night."
"Andromedons in particular rely on their technology," Cairu said. "As the fleet remains far away, there is no reason for alarm. It will give us an opportunity. This will not last."
"This feels ironic." I said. "An American-lead task force invading Cuba. Only this time it's to fight aliens."
"History's a circle, isn't it?" Braxton chuckled. "We did it in the sixties, and we're doing it again."
"Hopefully it'll work this time." I added.
We picked up the pace, going faster as we eventually made our way to the airport. The place looked like a fortress; missiles and guns of all sorts pointed towards the sky, sentry turrets pointed outside of the base. Drones flew all around in the air, with the occasional aircraft taking off.
"Yep. They're definitely spooked." Meru said. "Mila, you're up."
A stream of nanites came from her hands, eating through the wall and creating a person-sized whole. We crawled in one-by-one, until everyone was in.
"Dawn, you take the control tower," I was directed. "Mind control the people there and disrupt whatever you can."
"Yes, Overseer." I took off, mentally misdirecting alien workers as I used storage containers to hide.
Don't see me, cameras, don't see me…
I dashed behind a hangar, eyeing the control tower.
Go time.
Noticing a floating transport, I stealthily climbed on the back, hitching a ride until it got close enough to the tower. I rolled off, making my way to the door. Sensing people on the ground floor, I dropped them with my telepathy. Making sure the room was clear, I walked over to an elevator.
Why not?
It dinged, allowing me to get on. I leaned against the wall as it moved up.
"Status?"
"On an elevator, sir. I'm almost at the top."
"Copy. We're going loud. Stand by."
Alarms started droning as the door opened. I ran into a little hallway, surprising two Zararch guards. I pulled out my pistol, shooting both of them in the head. I dashed past their two bodies, kicking open a door into the main control room. Several technicians and a commander turned, looking at me in shock. Before they could even reach for their guns, I took control of their minds.
"Situation report."
"Humans attacking the airport." One of the technicians droned. "Large threat detected. Entirety of guards deployed to this position. Awaiting orders from command."
"Cut off all communications. And tell your men to get over here as fast as possible."
They all nodded, their eyes glazed over and staring emptily at me, following their orders. I looked out the glass panes of the towers to see several Vitakara fighters taxiing down an unoccupied runway.
Can't let them get away.
With a thought, the fighter at the back of the line fired his missiles into the one in front of him. It exploded, sending debris, and more importantly, flammable fuel everywhere. The rest of the fighters lit up like torches, becoming incandescent as they exploded one by one. The pilots didn't even feel it - one moment they were in their cockpits, the next a wave of melting heat crashed into them.
Five ships down.
"Ma'am, the soldiers are inbound to this position. Approximately two hundred of our men are headed our way."
"And the rest?"
"Dead or retreating from the base." He said in a deadpan tone.
"Thanks." With another thought, I knocked them out, sending them slumping in their chairs. They'd be captured later.
I walked out of the room and climbed back on the ladder outside. I reached out with my mind, sensing the two hundred soldiers closing in. I focused, extending my reach as far as I could. Around a dozen I could do before it became too tenuous. It would have to be enough.
End.
A dozen of the soldiers that could've attacked our team fell over dead, their brains short-circuiting as they were preparing to shoot at us.
"Meru, come in."
"Dawn! I saw a part of the oncoming force collapse! Was that you?"
"Copy, it was me. Comms from the control tower are down, and five enemy fighters got blown up."
"Copy that. Head down here and assist us. We've got hostiles inbound from the north. Lancers are here to help us deal with the soldiers Good work."
I pulled out my pistol and shot the window open. I leapt through it, falling to the ground and landing with a crunch at my feet. The concrete cracked and split as I hit the ground, causing me to shake. When you got used to having this much gear on, you tended to forget just how much you weighed. I holstered my pistol, grabbed my psi-rifle, and began running towards my team's position.
"Incoming! Heads up!"
A group of Muton Berserkers charged out of a holding pen, knocking aside several Vitakara and running towards us. Braxton, without hesitation, lifted them all up and snapped their necks. As the bodies fell to the ground, explosions in the distance erupted. At the same time, lights across the base began flickering off. Cameras went limp, turrets went still, and several drones fueling aircraft in the hangars went silent.
"Lancers. They must've blown the generator. With the guns, we can-" Blake began, but a plasma rifle shot cracked through their air, just barely scraping his neck.
"Fuck!" Cairu ran over to him and grabbed one of his medkits, while we stopped.
"Dawn!" Merus yelled. "Find out where that came from!"
I nodded, zooming in the general direction of the shot. Another shot came, hitting the ground next to me.
Sniper. Wait.
The sound of that gun, I'd heard it before.
Where?
I heard the swishing of a cable in the distance, and-
Grapple hook.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a glint of silver for just a second before it vanished. I aimed my gun at it and fired several rounds at it. A distorted yelp echoed from my shot and someone hit the ground, much closer to us this time, and allowing me to properly sense it..
I saw the silhouette of it, and fired again.
"SAS!" I yelled, this time hitting the target right in the chest, killing them. "Over there!"
"You sure?" Meru ran over to me, looking at the corpse across the road. "Wait, what?"
Just as he said that, a barracks door opened in the distance, and a haggle of SAS soldiers stormed out, shooting at us as they laid eyes on us. Not taking any chances, I instantly killed them with my mind.
"Targets down. That's all of 'em, I think."
"How many was that?"
"About eight or ten. Not sure."
I checked the scene with my mind, making sure no one else could get the drop on us. "Area clear, sir!"
"Good job, Dawn." Meru looked at Cariu."How is he?"
"The plasma did not hit anywhere vital. He will be fine."
Blake just nodded, probably in pain.
Meru turned to the dead soldiers, walking over to them and looking at their corpses. "Those are SAS soldiers all right, no doubt about it. Armor and gear matches. What the hell are they doing here?"
Everyone just shook their heads or shrugged.
"ADVENT will be interested to hear this," Meru murmured. "I'll make sure that's passed along once the Lancers secure the area and communications equipment. Let's go!"
While some of the team looked at the bodies, I moved on ahead, searching corners and rooms. It looked like everything had gone to plan. Guards ambushed, cannons down, and we were one step closer to taking Cuba.
I climbed an observation tower, zooming in on the beach with my visor. Nothing yet. First phase was completed successfully, and assuming the rest of the operation went as well as this one had, the full fleet would be here soon. There were already some troubling questions to ponder in the meantime before we moved out.
But what are the SAS doing here in Cuba?
What do they have to do with all of this?
A part of me wondered if I'd find that out sooner or later.
As the others spoke over the radio that the base was clear, I couldn't help but think of the sheer irony of today. Once again, over fifty years later, American- and other- forces were invading Cuba. Not to get rid of some dictator or fulfill political goals, but to free it - and bring it in line with the rest of the world.
It's Uncle Sam, your neighbor from across the pond. Did you miss me?
I'm back, and this time, I'm here to stay.
To be continued in
Havana Blues