Post by Maxine on Aug 4, 2020 5:26:13 GMT -8
Amongst the mushroom forests of Pilaf, past the outskirts of the iconic Pilafland, a meagre village had become a mysterious hotspot of activity… rumours of the Pilaf Corporation putting together something there abound; hardly helped by the flow of government traffic heading in and out of the area. But, in the end, all that was revealed was a new Pilaf Corporation building – a company retreat. Revealed with pride, the Corporation showed its commitment to even the outskirts of its land. Offering an opportunity for new local jobs supporting the facility, improved infrastructure all around the little suburbs, and plenty of smiling employees who were thrilled to have such a new home; it had to be masterstroke.
But far below, far far below, there was anything but a smile.
Trudging through the drainage tunnel, a figure dragged themselves out of the filthy water and onto the concrete edges; black uniform dripping from head to toe. But, they did not slump, nor complain, nor hesitate. An emergency exit door urged them forward along the tunnel’s skirting – and in spite of their dreadful appearance, they gently pulled the handle and let themselves through like a lover in the night. The only sound was the dripping of water, the faint squeak of a leather boot, and then a crackle –
”Night, Sixes 2. Sixes 1 has been located. Still looking for Sixes 3. No updates from alpha team.”
”Sixes 1 is stable. No sight of Sixes 4’s equipment either. Heading further downstream.”
”Copy that. The op is scrapped, prepare for evac. Find Sixes 3 and head to your nearest extraction. CO will be in touch.”
”Roger. Survey should be finished in fifteen. Over.”
”Keep us updated. Over, out.”
A glove wound itself around the radio strapped to the figure’s chest that had been barking through their headset – it was an old, painfully old, model; but an effective one. At least, if one didn’t want anyone listening. Wireless was the current way of life… encryption could always be broken. But these frequency bands no one would even think of touching nowadays.
”Sixes 3, Night. I am on site, and ready to continue the operation. Was unable to communicate due to… drainage concerns, but in good condition. Section is… D-4. Any directions would be appreciated. Over.”
”Night here. Sixes 1 and 2 were washed out – operation will have to be solo from here on, if you can continue. But, how did –“
”Directions, double time. There’s movement.”
”Copy that, cool down. D-4… not far off. Should be East along the nearest hall, one floor up, area C. But, wait for the all clear to continue. Time is running out – estimated forty until you need to be out. Extraction is already on its way. It’ll be a gamble.”
”Thirty. Too much movement this far down. I’ll move as soon as CO gives the go-ahead. Over.”
A heavy pause. The sound of dripping water upon the concrete below, gradually slowing down. Sixes 3 checked their gear – their black BDU was drenched, but still in good shape. Their weapon, though? Barely operable. The extra batteries was swept away, and the current charge was shorted. The woes of blasters. Their armoured gas mask’s goggles ought to be smudged and worthless… but, the blue hue behind the faceless visage gave them all the sight they could ever need.
Finally, a crackle, and –
”Sixes 3, you’re on the clock. Continue the operation. Over, out.”
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“It’s a horribly risky proposition, but the chairman was insistent. Looks like you made some headway, rat. You’d better impress.”
It really was a big gamble. They hadn’t even been assured of payment. And stepping on the toes of Pilafland could be extremely dangerous for such a small organisation as the Shinobu Clan. But… an ally like this couldn’t be passed up, either. The prize, too… it would be most useful for the family’s ambitions.
”I have utmost faith in the Dragoons’ professionalism. The operation will either bring back results, or leave no trace behind. The chairman will not regret this.”
The plan itself was simple, but the context was a mess – lots of unknowns were involved. Far too many for any professional’s preference, but it had to be done.
It’d started with a job for the Azure Dragoons – Pilaf had been alerted that a Red Ribbon remnant group were planning to take hold of their recently completed corporate retreat, and turn their weapons on the rest of the corporation’s assets. The Dragoons were to show up as peacekeeping operatives as soon as possible, and take on the rebels when they made their move. They’d be on the defensive, and had to minimise their use of firepower… it’d obviously end in a long stand-off. All things considered, nothing too fresh for the mercenaries, though they had their doubts they’d be there on time to lock down the area before the rebels made a move.
Over in the Western Lands, a tip-off from a business associate of the Shinobu Clan from the Pilaf Corporation painted a different picture. There was no Red Ribbon remnant involved, but a false flag by the corporation, with the intent to burn the place to the ground… and particularly the hidden labs below. Several strange projects were being worked on, but most had been scrapped before prototyping – except for one. A strain of Destron Gas, which had shown potential as an alloy suitable for bullet tips. The chairman of the Shinobu Clan had a vested interest in such work, and so was someone worth giving such intel to, but… what could they do with it? The research would all be turned to ashes, and Pilaf would pave over it in mere days.
So, when the link between the two stories took notice of it, a plan came together. It was an unlikely partnership, and both sides weren’t remotely confident in it, but it was a gamble they could both benefit from. The Dragoons would offer a cover story and intelligence, and the Shinobu Clan would offer operatives with plausible deniability to safeguard their ‘Azure Clause’. From there, while the planned siege erupted between the fake Red Ribbon remnants and the Azure Dragoon peacekeepers, the operatives would secure the sample, and evacuate during the chaos.
“They’re putting our people’s heads on the line instead of their own; barely risking themselves at all – they even had the gall to run you through such a massive lecture on their rules. Are you seriously going to trust them after that? They might be keen on your head, now that they’ve got the information they wanted. They may have just been biding their time!”
Hatsuko glared at Maxine across the hotel room, clearly thoroughly unimpressed – but, the android was unfazed. It was an odd situation, but she did not take it as a slight against the Shinobu Clan. Instead, it was a question of Maxine’s skills. The Colonel had seen her behind the scenes, but not on the field… there would be a lot weighing on this operation. The chairman, too, intended to trial the android’s faith. Unbeknownst to Hatsuko, Maxine’s teammates would not be Shinobu Clan thugs… instead, they would be hired mercenaries from the local region. The android was the only one who’s head was truly on the line here…
”I will deliver results, Hatsuko. Please wait patiently for my return. And… please enjoy yourself. Pilafland is a world built of smiles, isn’t it? So, have some ready for me when I finish up, and I shall bring that sample in return.”
Hatsuko certainly didn’t see her off with a smile, but Maxine was satisfied all the same. She would have it no other way.
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The complex below the retreat was nowhere near as sunny and sugar-coated – there wasn’t even tiled floors; just concrete from end to end. Unsurprisingly, this had been a hurried operation… and so shutting it down would be just as swift. As much as Capsule Corp could brag of its cutting-edge technology, Pilaf’s efficiency was on another level. But, for now, it was something Maxine was thankful for. The covert ops gear she had was a marvellously practical BDU, but not really something for sneaking around labs in – but stiff concrete halls were far more forgiving. The power had been cut already, too. As far as stealth went, Maxine had been given the luxury treatment so far.
But, it couldn’t last for long. While dampened by the material, she could still clearly hear footsteps hurrying through the floor above and muffled through the thick walls – their clean-up was well and truly underway. Intelligence on how it was planned to go was scarce, unsurprisingly, so she was gambling her life. Explosives were likely, but a planned cave-in would be easier to cover up by far…
Ah, well, that was the wrong choice of words… a machine did not have such a thing. She was merely gambling – an asset.
Staring through blue tinted lenses, Maxine found what she was looking for along the wall, following the uneven stripe of green paint to its end – SECTION C, stencilled on the easel of cement. That meant a left turn up ahead… and then? Then time really wasn’t on her side. Based on the negative space from the floors aboveground from the building plans the Dragoons had, there were probably multiple rooms to clear. And she wasn’t entirely sure of what she was looking for, either… thankfully, Pilaf had a habit of clearly labelling its work down here so far, but… she wasn’t a scientist. However, she wasn’t a war machine either – this was one job that she was made to handle, as far as androids went.
Locked door – securely, too. Sealed, electronic key pad; nothing special, but nothing Maxine could work with. Sixes 2 had been the one to carry the blowtorch, so no luck there. Smashing it open? No, even if the situation was noisy outside, that sort of work would definitely be more distinctive; she wouldn’t get away with it.
Flicking a ruined battery from her belt pouch, she jammed it in the sliding door’s rungs; before adding a second and a third. Then, she took off one of her black gloves – this would take a lighter touch. Electricity trickled through her as she changed her output and raised her circulation fluid’s conductivity… it took some energy out of her, but the sparks eventually ignited. With a muffled bang and a hiss, the batteries blew and melted… enough to slag just enough steel. Then, with a bit of effort… the door slid open, after a brief creak.
Another obstacle down. But, she was running out of resources.
The mission had started miserably, so this was becoming a worry. They’d infiltrated through the underground, expecting no resistance, but they were met with a ridiculous counterattack instead… somehow or another, they’d flooded the drainage underneath, washing out the whole crew. They had no choice – no amount of gunfire or gear could stop a torrent of water! They’d expected covert ops, but hadn’t planned for a scuba mission.
Luckily, though, one of them didn’t need to plan for that. Sixes 3… just so happened to not need to breath. A solo mission suited her just fine. Except… most of her gear wasn’t nearly as waterproof as she was, and her teammates had armed themselves with all the utilities an operative could wish for in a smash-and-grab like this. So now… it was just Maxine, and a busted submachine gun.
Well, and a truly handsome BDU, but…
The first room was empty – but, it did look like the jackpot. It was massive, too… there hadn’t been space for multiple rooms; there’d just been space for one huge one instead. Her mask’s azure lenses pierced the darkness for her as she hurriedly glanced around, casing the place – it looked like most of the room was containment; fume hoods dominated the room. She was no chemist… but she was pretty sure she’d gotten very lucky. It looked like the place had been left nearly spotless already, though, so she might still be too late… ah, if she was a biological weapon sample, where would she hide…?
Speaking of hiding – was that the door just now? She had better disappear…
The sliding door was dragged open again, and now a flashlight took the place of Maxine’s augmented vision – just a solitary soul entered the room, casting their light around them. That design of battle armour… Capsule Corp? Did they have their noses in this too, truly? Or was this part of the false flag operation? Just like Maxine before them, they began to scour the room; but with far more haste. Flasks and dishes clattered as they swept over the tables. Her time was getting shorter the more commotion they made…
”I’m working, I’m working, sir… got it! Eyes on the sample!” cheered the trooper – though muffled through Maxine’s mask, she could identify it as a woman. Perhaps another mercenary? Definitely not a Dragoon, though. But… their identity didn’t matter, really. They were a nuisance either way. ”You paid the right person… I’ll be out in no time. Section A, right? Yeah, yeah; I’ll make it. Keep it clear for me! I’m getting out in one piece, promise. I’ll be getting it out in one piece, too! …S-Sheesh, don’t say stuff like that, either. I don’t plan on breaking it! Especially if it’s gonna kill me before you get the chance to kill me with one of your lectures…”
The spy stepped away, tossing their helmet and its headset aside – ”Going silent… geez, I hate types that are all business.” they grumbled, before grumbling with considerably more urgency. Maxine’s grip and pulsing electricity did not relent until they finished flailing… more wasted energy, but she preferred it to slitting someone’s throat. Would they survive Pilaf’s slash-and-burn plans afterwards, though? That did not matter to the android. Survival was their own responsibility. For now, she was simply thankful for the coincidence… as well as thankful her petite size had let her slip onto one of the top shelves with such ease.
Now… the sample. Searching the spy, she found the prize – a thin canister, built to be fitted with an injector. It was still the size of her hand and then an inch or two, but it’d fit in one of her thigh holsters. She was expecting a gas, but it seemed to be a liquid. However, she couldn’t decipher much else given she only had blue gradients to see through. Carefully, she cushioned it with some gauze from the lab’s first aid cabinet as she stowed it – and they said Pilaf didn’t care for their employees. But right now… she ought to be more worried about whether or not they cared for their captives.
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Finally, the letter A stencilled on the wall – and with no further confrontations. Section D had been caved in, and she’d heard some commotion from above… it sounded like the siege was starting to kick into gear.
”Sixes 3, this is Night. You’ve got ten minutes. The CO can’t offer much more time for extraction to lurk around, and our troops’ breaching operation will be starting soon. When it comes to that, you’re on your own.”
”Understood. Sample has been obtained. Transit was too long, currently taking an alternative exit. I’ll keep you posted on my location when I hit the surface.”
”Keep it up. Sixes 1 and 2 made contact with me, but have made stayed behind to support your evacuation, so keep an eye out for them. Time isn’t on your side. Over and out.”
At long last, Maxine found light at the end of the tunnel – a wide ramp upwards, and a change in scenery. Must’ve been how they built the complex in the first place… but, the android couldn’t ponder the logistics for long. She’d heard movement this way earlier, but now there wasn’t a shadow. Empty catwalks hung above, and signs of habitation dotted the hall. More life than the concrete corridors had, but still… it didn’t add up with the sounds of motion earlier.
As she rounded a corner, the picture grew far more severe. The scent of smoke, and the sight of two bodies – Maxine immediately crept back around the corner, taking stock of the next upward section before considering moving on. Pilaf security crew… well and truly dead, seemingly through blaster fire. High calibre, too… if she went up against that with her SMG, she’d be toasted just like them. And she only had a few shots to her name, as well. Tch… her hand slipped to her back, reaching for the hilt of her knife – but, it grasped at nothing.
A pair of flashlights danced across the hallway, casting shadows of construction equipment across the wall behind her. Eight minutes now… she couldn’t afford this. Maybe she could play herself off as part of their crew? Or maybe she’d just have to run… she didn’t like her chances, though. The Spark Liner still wasn’t in functioning order, and her own kinetic barrier would only be able to take a few hits without draining most of her batteries. Ah, she never had an easy job, did she? But, she was a machine; she could not complain.
She checked her blaster’s battery – seven shots, maybe eight. Plugging it back in, she pulled the charging handle with a comforting click. No time like the present. She lowered her stance, raised her heel, and –
”Sixes 3! You made poor time. Up that pace, and get over here!”
She didn’t think any further, rushing forward towards the two figures. Black BDUs and gas masks, just like her… finally, a reunion. But, no time to relax, they were right – the clock was still ticking. As she passed them, they joined her hurried jog. ”Sample still intact?” asked the one on her right; a taller figure who towered over her. Maxine replied with just a nod. ”Excellent. You really cleaned up. Kinda making us look bad, but androids have their ups and downs.”
Finally, a hint of actual light – so where did this come out, exactly? It’d been quite a distance underground… a click, maybe more? Her comrade pulled up the steel shutter that stood between the complex and the outside world, revealing the backroom of an old gas station. Comfy cover… Pilaf Corporation really were smooth operators. The ground quaked – another section must have been caved in. Had that Capsule Corp spy gotten out? Well, not her business. Maxine’s only focus should be on the mission’s results, and that lay straight ahead –
The ground quaked – and Maxine fell to her knees in overwhelming pain.
”You did well, android, but your boss ought to double check their thugs’ histories.”
”I’ll take her legs off. Crush the sample. Then we’re done here.”[/font]
She couldn’t even reach for her gun, nor activate her countermeasures – Maxine was simply shot in the back and gunned down on the spot. Her back seared with laser fire, but soon even that pain passed as her legs were simply burnt off by the volley. Tossed in a corner, she could only snarl and grunt in response, realising she’d been totally played…
”Nothing personal. Pilaf sends its regards, though. They just don’t want Western creeps sneaking around behind their backs. You’re a machine, so you’ll probably come out of this okay.”
”Quit chatting. We’re not paid by the hour.”
The two troops bantered through their masks, merely glancing Maxine up and down – or at least, what was left of her torso. For good luck, the more serious of the pair sunk a few shots into her right arm as well; leaving it limp and unresponsive – ”One for the road.” remarked the stoic voice, before turning away and following their own advice. ”Time’s up – we’re out. Forget the sample.”
Left with just a torso and one usable arm, Maxine crumpled under the dread… especially as the sample’s container had been cracked, leaking out. It’d be worthless soon… a total mission failure. And it was all on the Shinobu Clan’s head. After all that work…! And now, all this pain… her sensors could only be suppressed so much, thanks to her nerve-modelling features. She could only wallow in misery.
Misery, and… a chemical weapon.
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“We found one, finally! Just a civie… android.”
“Haul them to safety, bring them aside. Glad this wasn’t a waste.”
“Understood, on it!”
Extraction… it had seemed so far away. Her log said… eight hours? Her pain said… a bit longer. But, rescue was rescue. As she was hefted aloft by one of the Azure Dragoons’ Auxiliaries, Maxine was glad that she was just a machine… she’d been through these injuries before. The familiar thudding of one of the Dragoons’ VTOL helicopters was more than enough to distract her from her dull pain. Even if things had ended up in such a mess, she could still enjoy a ride on their fancy military technology…
Finally pulled aboard and sat up in the cramped seating of the chopper, she was met with a familiar face; at least once her charred mask had been torn off. The Dragoon captain before her didn’t so much as squint at her, merely raising an eyebrow. She could imagine she wasn’t a pretty sight, but… she was just a machine, so she doubted it was that unsettling.
”I guess this explains the radio silence. Surprised you’re still functioning at all, but… I don’t really like returning to base empty-handed. Even if it’s just for a contractor. It’s not good for PR.”
Wearing a beige peacoat and tie, the captain looked like he was in the wrong job – he’d be better off stalking Oolong City’s streets in the rain, looking for clues; rather than leading Tuffle warfighters. But, that moustache was magnificent, so perhaps he could get away with it.
”I-I apologise for the wait, and inc-convenience. Sixes 1 and 2 w-were… not trustworthy.” began Maxine at last, shuffling all her systems again in order to put her vocal chord imitations in working order. Well, mostly working order… they’d been partly damaged, leaving her voice with a mechanical lilt. ”The Dragoons were n-not implicated. Extraction should b-be suitable…”
“The siege ended many hours ago, but we did some more sweeps looking for civilian survivors – and Sixes 3. Their operation faked an undermining using that complex you were in… it’s completely flattened. We took it slow, so we didn’t hit very hard; most of the supposed rebels vanished before the drop. We can assume they made a safe retreat thanks to some of Pilaf’s work. The wreckage is way too clean – they clearly planned it out well. But, your comrades… well, once-comrades, were not so lucky. Pilaf clearly doesn’t like loose ends… but it sounds like that suits us just fine.”
Maxine frowned – so, this all went as the corporation planned. She didn’t speak up, though, as the dull pain was becoming more noticeable now that her systems had been rerouted again. “Our operation didn’t work out, I take it. It’s regretful, but you’re just a contractor. And, with those two guns at your back, too, if you’re telling the truth.” Mused the captain, turning away from the broken machine; “We’ll send you on your way within a few hours.”
”The sample… i-is intact, I believe…” stammered Maxine – the captain spun right around again. A waiting Auxiliary medic raised an eyebrow as well, clearly curious. Androids didn’t tend to mumble anything insane, after all. ”The sample jar was smashed, b-but, the sample is s-stable. Assuming i-it hasn’t depreciated.”
Using her still operable left arm, Maxine gestured to her other arm – ”I sealed o-off my circulation after the cables were damaged, flushed the fluids, and inj-jected the sample into it… as an android, i-it shouldn’t have r-reacted. If it hasn’t b-been affected by m-movement, it s-should be usable.”
Dutifully, the Tuffle medic used a torch to take off the android’s ruined right arm, and began to extract the fluid within – clearly they’d been expected to remove it from a flask, rather than a cable, but they were prepared nonetheless. The captain watched silently, merely raising an eyebrow. Finally, the Auxiliary gave his superior a sharp nod, and the older man finally seemed to relax. “That… is quite some improvisation. I’d been expecting to write a scathing report, but… if it’s still usable, then…”
At last, Maxine too could relax. Repairs were nothing new to her, nor was such pain; but she did not look forward to it. After all, she could have just as well been left behind for good by the Dragoons after that miserable job. But, before she could sink into such worries, her dour expression was clearly noticed.
“If that leak on the research was right, then this is quite the find for the Dragoons, and for your clan, too, from what I understand. These results will mean a lot to both of our superiors. I didn’t have much faith in this mission, and it seems I wasn’t totally mistaken… I don’t like to work too closely with other organisations. However, I can’t argue that you pulled through. I expected a lot less from a strange model of android such as yourself. But, the Colonel clearly saw something in you that I didn’t.”
”It was my p-pleasure. The mission… is the priority, a-above all else. The client shall not be disappointed… whether they’re k-kin, or contractors.”
Standing up straight, the captain appraised his unlikely comrade in her abominable state – but, he did not see her with pity; not anymore. “The mission has been successful. We’ll debrief with your chairman when we return to the outpost.” Stated the Tuffle, all professional at last. “I can see some potential in having an android on hand. UN-11, Maxine – we will be in touch.”
Her wounds still stung, her repairs would take time, and she had a lot of faults to reflect on.
But, the mission was complete.
Be polite, be professional; get results.
The client is your world.
[4314]
But far below, far far below, there was anything but a smile.
Trudging through the drainage tunnel, a figure dragged themselves out of the filthy water and onto the concrete edges; black uniform dripping from head to toe. But, they did not slump, nor complain, nor hesitate. An emergency exit door urged them forward along the tunnel’s skirting – and in spite of their dreadful appearance, they gently pulled the handle and let themselves through like a lover in the night. The only sound was the dripping of water, the faint squeak of a leather boot, and then a crackle –
”Night, Sixes 2. Sixes 1 has been located. Still looking for Sixes 3. No updates from alpha team.”
”Sixes 1 is stable. No sight of Sixes 4’s equipment either. Heading further downstream.”
”Copy that. The op is scrapped, prepare for evac. Find Sixes 3 and head to your nearest extraction. CO will be in touch.”
”Roger. Survey should be finished in fifteen. Over.”
”Keep us updated. Over, out.”
A glove wound itself around the radio strapped to the figure’s chest that had been barking through their headset – it was an old, painfully old, model; but an effective one. At least, if one didn’t want anyone listening. Wireless was the current way of life… encryption could always be broken. But these frequency bands no one would even think of touching nowadays.
”Sixes 3, Night. I am on site, and ready to continue the operation. Was unable to communicate due to… drainage concerns, but in good condition. Section is… D-4. Any directions would be appreciated. Over.”
”Night here. Sixes 1 and 2 were washed out – operation will have to be solo from here on, if you can continue. But, how did –“
”Directions, double time. There’s movement.”
”Copy that, cool down. D-4… not far off. Should be East along the nearest hall, one floor up, area C. But, wait for the all clear to continue. Time is running out – estimated forty until you need to be out. Extraction is already on its way. It’ll be a gamble.”
”Thirty. Too much movement this far down. I’ll move as soon as CO gives the go-ahead. Over.”
A heavy pause. The sound of dripping water upon the concrete below, gradually slowing down. Sixes 3 checked their gear – their black BDU was drenched, but still in good shape. Their weapon, though? Barely operable. The extra batteries was swept away, and the current charge was shorted. The woes of blasters. Their armoured gas mask’s goggles ought to be smudged and worthless… but, the blue hue behind the faceless visage gave them all the sight they could ever need.
Finally, a crackle, and –
”Sixes 3, you’re on the clock. Continue the operation. Over, out.”
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“It’s a horribly risky proposition, but the chairman was insistent. Looks like you made some headway, rat. You’d better impress.”
It really was a big gamble. They hadn’t even been assured of payment. And stepping on the toes of Pilafland could be extremely dangerous for such a small organisation as the Shinobu Clan. But… an ally like this couldn’t be passed up, either. The prize, too… it would be most useful for the family’s ambitions.
”I have utmost faith in the Dragoons’ professionalism. The operation will either bring back results, or leave no trace behind. The chairman will not regret this.”
The plan itself was simple, but the context was a mess – lots of unknowns were involved. Far too many for any professional’s preference, but it had to be done.
It’d started with a job for the Azure Dragoons – Pilaf had been alerted that a Red Ribbon remnant group were planning to take hold of their recently completed corporate retreat, and turn their weapons on the rest of the corporation’s assets. The Dragoons were to show up as peacekeeping operatives as soon as possible, and take on the rebels when they made their move. They’d be on the defensive, and had to minimise their use of firepower… it’d obviously end in a long stand-off. All things considered, nothing too fresh for the mercenaries, though they had their doubts they’d be there on time to lock down the area before the rebels made a move.
Over in the Western Lands, a tip-off from a business associate of the Shinobu Clan from the Pilaf Corporation painted a different picture. There was no Red Ribbon remnant involved, but a false flag by the corporation, with the intent to burn the place to the ground… and particularly the hidden labs below. Several strange projects were being worked on, but most had been scrapped before prototyping – except for one. A strain of Destron Gas, which had shown potential as an alloy suitable for bullet tips. The chairman of the Shinobu Clan had a vested interest in such work, and so was someone worth giving such intel to, but… what could they do with it? The research would all be turned to ashes, and Pilaf would pave over it in mere days.
So, when the link between the two stories took notice of it, a plan came together. It was an unlikely partnership, and both sides weren’t remotely confident in it, but it was a gamble they could both benefit from. The Dragoons would offer a cover story and intelligence, and the Shinobu Clan would offer operatives with plausible deniability to safeguard their ‘Azure Clause’. From there, while the planned siege erupted between the fake Red Ribbon remnants and the Azure Dragoon peacekeepers, the operatives would secure the sample, and evacuate during the chaos.
“They’re putting our people’s heads on the line instead of their own; barely risking themselves at all – they even had the gall to run you through such a massive lecture on their rules. Are you seriously going to trust them after that? They might be keen on your head, now that they’ve got the information they wanted. They may have just been biding their time!”
Hatsuko glared at Maxine across the hotel room, clearly thoroughly unimpressed – but, the android was unfazed. It was an odd situation, but she did not take it as a slight against the Shinobu Clan. Instead, it was a question of Maxine’s skills. The Colonel had seen her behind the scenes, but not on the field… there would be a lot weighing on this operation. The chairman, too, intended to trial the android’s faith. Unbeknownst to Hatsuko, Maxine’s teammates would not be Shinobu Clan thugs… instead, they would be hired mercenaries from the local region. The android was the only one who’s head was truly on the line here…
”I will deliver results, Hatsuko. Please wait patiently for my return. And… please enjoy yourself. Pilafland is a world built of smiles, isn’t it? So, have some ready for me when I finish up, and I shall bring that sample in return.”
Hatsuko certainly didn’t see her off with a smile, but Maxine was satisfied all the same. She would have it no other way.
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The complex below the retreat was nowhere near as sunny and sugar-coated – there wasn’t even tiled floors; just concrete from end to end. Unsurprisingly, this had been a hurried operation… and so shutting it down would be just as swift. As much as Capsule Corp could brag of its cutting-edge technology, Pilaf’s efficiency was on another level. But, for now, it was something Maxine was thankful for. The covert ops gear she had was a marvellously practical BDU, but not really something for sneaking around labs in – but stiff concrete halls were far more forgiving. The power had been cut already, too. As far as stealth went, Maxine had been given the luxury treatment so far.
But, it couldn’t last for long. While dampened by the material, she could still clearly hear footsteps hurrying through the floor above and muffled through the thick walls – their clean-up was well and truly underway. Intelligence on how it was planned to go was scarce, unsurprisingly, so she was gambling her life. Explosives were likely, but a planned cave-in would be easier to cover up by far…
Ah, well, that was the wrong choice of words… a machine did not have such a thing. She was merely gambling – an asset.
Staring through blue tinted lenses, Maxine found what she was looking for along the wall, following the uneven stripe of green paint to its end – SECTION C, stencilled on the easel of cement. That meant a left turn up ahead… and then? Then time really wasn’t on her side. Based on the negative space from the floors aboveground from the building plans the Dragoons had, there were probably multiple rooms to clear. And she wasn’t entirely sure of what she was looking for, either… thankfully, Pilaf had a habit of clearly labelling its work down here so far, but… she wasn’t a scientist. However, she wasn’t a war machine either – this was one job that she was made to handle, as far as androids went.
Locked door – securely, too. Sealed, electronic key pad; nothing special, but nothing Maxine could work with. Sixes 2 had been the one to carry the blowtorch, so no luck there. Smashing it open? No, even if the situation was noisy outside, that sort of work would definitely be more distinctive; she wouldn’t get away with it.
Flicking a ruined battery from her belt pouch, she jammed it in the sliding door’s rungs; before adding a second and a third. Then, she took off one of her black gloves – this would take a lighter touch. Electricity trickled through her as she changed her output and raised her circulation fluid’s conductivity… it took some energy out of her, but the sparks eventually ignited. With a muffled bang and a hiss, the batteries blew and melted… enough to slag just enough steel. Then, with a bit of effort… the door slid open, after a brief creak.
Another obstacle down. But, she was running out of resources.
The mission had started miserably, so this was becoming a worry. They’d infiltrated through the underground, expecting no resistance, but they were met with a ridiculous counterattack instead… somehow or another, they’d flooded the drainage underneath, washing out the whole crew. They had no choice – no amount of gunfire or gear could stop a torrent of water! They’d expected covert ops, but hadn’t planned for a scuba mission.
Luckily, though, one of them didn’t need to plan for that. Sixes 3… just so happened to not need to breath. A solo mission suited her just fine. Except… most of her gear wasn’t nearly as waterproof as she was, and her teammates had armed themselves with all the utilities an operative could wish for in a smash-and-grab like this. So now… it was just Maxine, and a busted submachine gun.
Well, and a truly handsome BDU, but…
The first room was empty – but, it did look like the jackpot. It was massive, too… there hadn’t been space for multiple rooms; there’d just been space for one huge one instead. Her mask’s azure lenses pierced the darkness for her as she hurriedly glanced around, casing the place – it looked like most of the room was containment; fume hoods dominated the room. She was no chemist… but she was pretty sure she’d gotten very lucky. It looked like the place had been left nearly spotless already, though, so she might still be too late… ah, if she was a biological weapon sample, where would she hide…?
Speaking of hiding – was that the door just now? She had better disappear…
The sliding door was dragged open again, and now a flashlight took the place of Maxine’s augmented vision – just a solitary soul entered the room, casting their light around them. That design of battle armour… Capsule Corp? Did they have their noses in this too, truly? Or was this part of the false flag operation? Just like Maxine before them, they began to scour the room; but with far more haste. Flasks and dishes clattered as they swept over the tables. Her time was getting shorter the more commotion they made…
”I’m working, I’m working, sir… got it! Eyes on the sample!” cheered the trooper – though muffled through Maxine’s mask, she could identify it as a woman. Perhaps another mercenary? Definitely not a Dragoon, though. But… their identity didn’t matter, really. They were a nuisance either way. ”You paid the right person… I’ll be out in no time. Section A, right? Yeah, yeah; I’ll make it. Keep it clear for me! I’m getting out in one piece, promise. I’ll be getting it out in one piece, too! …S-Sheesh, don’t say stuff like that, either. I don’t plan on breaking it! Especially if it’s gonna kill me before you get the chance to kill me with one of your lectures…”
The spy stepped away, tossing their helmet and its headset aside – ”Going silent… geez, I hate types that are all business.” they grumbled, before grumbling with considerably more urgency. Maxine’s grip and pulsing electricity did not relent until they finished flailing… more wasted energy, but she preferred it to slitting someone’s throat. Would they survive Pilaf’s slash-and-burn plans afterwards, though? That did not matter to the android. Survival was their own responsibility. For now, she was simply thankful for the coincidence… as well as thankful her petite size had let her slip onto one of the top shelves with such ease.
Now… the sample. Searching the spy, she found the prize – a thin canister, built to be fitted with an injector. It was still the size of her hand and then an inch or two, but it’d fit in one of her thigh holsters. She was expecting a gas, but it seemed to be a liquid. However, she couldn’t decipher much else given she only had blue gradients to see through. Carefully, she cushioned it with some gauze from the lab’s first aid cabinet as she stowed it – and they said Pilaf didn’t care for their employees. But right now… she ought to be more worried about whether or not they cared for their captives.
-------------------------------
Finally, the letter A stencilled on the wall – and with no further confrontations. Section D had been caved in, and she’d heard some commotion from above… it sounded like the siege was starting to kick into gear.
”Sixes 3, this is Night. You’ve got ten minutes. The CO can’t offer much more time for extraction to lurk around, and our troops’ breaching operation will be starting soon. When it comes to that, you’re on your own.”
”Understood. Sample has been obtained. Transit was too long, currently taking an alternative exit. I’ll keep you posted on my location when I hit the surface.”
”Keep it up. Sixes 1 and 2 made contact with me, but have made stayed behind to support your evacuation, so keep an eye out for them. Time isn’t on your side. Over and out.”
At long last, Maxine found light at the end of the tunnel – a wide ramp upwards, and a change in scenery. Must’ve been how they built the complex in the first place… but, the android couldn’t ponder the logistics for long. She’d heard movement this way earlier, but now there wasn’t a shadow. Empty catwalks hung above, and signs of habitation dotted the hall. More life than the concrete corridors had, but still… it didn’t add up with the sounds of motion earlier.
As she rounded a corner, the picture grew far more severe. The scent of smoke, and the sight of two bodies – Maxine immediately crept back around the corner, taking stock of the next upward section before considering moving on. Pilaf security crew… well and truly dead, seemingly through blaster fire. High calibre, too… if she went up against that with her SMG, she’d be toasted just like them. And she only had a few shots to her name, as well. Tch… her hand slipped to her back, reaching for the hilt of her knife – but, it grasped at nothing.
A pair of flashlights danced across the hallway, casting shadows of construction equipment across the wall behind her. Eight minutes now… she couldn’t afford this. Maybe she could play herself off as part of their crew? Or maybe she’d just have to run… she didn’t like her chances, though. The Spark Liner still wasn’t in functioning order, and her own kinetic barrier would only be able to take a few hits without draining most of her batteries. Ah, she never had an easy job, did she? But, she was a machine; she could not complain.
She checked her blaster’s battery – seven shots, maybe eight. Plugging it back in, she pulled the charging handle with a comforting click. No time like the present. She lowered her stance, raised her heel, and –
”Sixes 3! You made poor time. Up that pace, and get over here!”
She didn’t think any further, rushing forward towards the two figures. Black BDUs and gas masks, just like her… finally, a reunion. But, no time to relax, they were right – the clock was still ticking. As she passed them, they joined her hurried jog. ”Sample still intact?” asked the one on her right; a taller figure who towered over her. Maxine replied with just a nod. ”Excellent. You really cleaned up. Kinda making us look bad, but androids have their ups and downs.”
Finally, a hint of actual light – so where did this come out, exactly? It’d been quite a distance underground… a click, maybe more? Her comrade pulled up the steel shutter that stood between the complex and the outside world, revealing the backroom of an old gas station. Comfy cover… Pilaf Corporation really were smooth operators. The ground quaked – another section must have been caved in. Had that Capsule Corp spy gotten out? Well, not her business. Maxine’s only focus should be on the mission’s results, and that lay straight ahead –
The ground quaked – and Maxine fell to her knees in overwhelming pain.
”You did well, android, but your boss ought to double check their thugs’ histories.”
”I’ll take her legs off. Crush the sample. Then we’re done here.”[/font]
She couldn’t even reach for her gun, nor activate her countermeasures – Maxine was simply shot in the back and gunned down on the spot. Her back seared with laser fire, but soon even that pain passed as her legs were simply burnt off by the volley. Tossed in a corner, she could only snarl and grunt in response, realising she’d been totally played…
”Nothing personal. Pilaf sends its regards, though. They just don’t want Western creeps sneaking around behind their backs. You’re a machine, so you’ll probably come out of this okay.”
”Quit chatting. We’re not paid by the hour.”
The two troops bantered through their masks, merely glancing Maxine up and down – or at least, what was left of her torso. For good luck, the more serious of the pair sunk a few shots into her right arm as well; leaving it limp and unresponsive – ”One for the road.” remarked the stoic voice, before turning away and following their own advice. ”Time’s up – we’re out. Forget the sample.”
Left with just a torso and one usable arm, Maxine crumpled under the dread… especially as the sample’s container had been cracked, leaking out. It’d be worthless soon… a total mission failure. And it was all on the Shinobu Clan’s head. After all that work…! And now, all this pain… her sensors could only be suppressed so much, thanks to her nerve-modelling features. She could only wallow in misery.
Misery, and… a chemical weapon.
-------------------------------
“We found one, finally! Just a civie… android.”
“Haul them to safety, bring them aside. Glad this wasn’t a waste.”
“Understood, on it!”
Extraction… it had seemed so far away. Her log said… eight hours? Her pain said… a bit longer. But, rescue was rescue. As she was hefted aloft by one of the Azure Dragoons’ Auxiliaries, Maxine was glad that she was just a machine… she’d been through these injuries before. The familiar thudding of one of the Dragoons’ VTOL helicopters was more than enough to distract her from her dull pain. Even if things had ended up in such a mess, she could still enjoy a ride on their fancy military technology…
Finally pulled aboard and sat up in the cramped seating of the chopper, she was met with a familiar face; at least once her charred mask had been torn off. The Dragoon captain before her didn’t so much as squint at her, merely raising an eyebrow. She could imagine she wasn’t a pretty sight, but… she was just a machine, so she doubted it was that unsettling.
”I guess this explains the radio silence. Surprised you’re still functioning at all, but… I don’t really like returning to base empty-handed. Even if it’s just for a contractor. It’s not good for PR.”
Wearing a beige peacoat and tie, the captain looked like he was in the wrong job – he’d be better off stalking Oolong City’s streets in the rain, looking for clues; rather than leading Tuffle warfighters. But, that moustache was magnificent, so perhaps he could get away with it.
”I-I apologise for the wait, and inc-convenience. Sixes 1 and 2 w-were… not trustworthy.” began Maxine at last, shuffling all her systems again in order to put her vocal chord imitations in working order. Well, mostly working order… they’d been partly damaged, leaving her voice with a mechanical lilt. ”The Dragoons were n-not implicated. Extraction should b-be suitable…”
“The siege ended many hours ago, but we did some more sweeps looking for civilian survivors – and Sixes 3. Their operation faked an undermining using that complex you were in… it’s completely flattened. We took it slow, so we didn’t hit very hard; most of the supposed rebels vanished before the drop. We can assume they made a safe retreat thanks to some of Pilaf’s work. The wreckage is way too clean – they clearly planned it out well. But, your comrades… well, once-comrades, were not so lucky. Pilaf clearly doesn’t like loose ends… but it sounds like that suits us just fine.”
Maxine frowned – so, this all went as the corporation planned. She didn’t speak up, though, as the dull pain was becoming more noticeable now that her systems had been rerouted again. “Our operation didn’t work out, I take it. It’s regretful, but you’re just a contractor. And, with those two guns at your back, too, if you’re telling the truth.” Mused the captain, turning away from the broken machine; “We’ll send you on your way within a few hours.”
”The sample… i-is intact, I believe…” stammered Maxine – the captain spun right around again. A waiting Auxiliary medic raised an eyebrow as well, clearly curious. Androids didn’t tend to mumble anything insane, after all. ”The sample jar was smashed, b-but, the sample is s-stable. Assuming i-it hasn’t depreciated.”
Using her still operable left arm, Maxine gestured to her other arm – ”I sealed o-off my circulation after the cables were damaged, flushed the fluids, and inj-jected the sample into it… as an android, i-it shouldn’t have r-reacted. If it hasn’t b-been affected by m-movement, it s-should be usable.”
Dutifully, the Tuffle medic used a torch to take off the android’s ruined right arm, and began to extract the fluid within – clearly they’d been expected to remove it from a flask, rather than a cable, but they were prepared nonetheless. The captain watched silently, merely raising an eyebrow. Finally, the Auxiliary gave his superior a sharp nod, and the older man finally seemed to relax. “That… is quite some improvisation. I’d been expecting to write a scathing report, but… if it’s still usable, then…”
At last, Maxine too could relax. Repairs were nothing new to her, nor was such pain; but she did not look forward to it. After all, she could have just as well been left behind for good by the Dragoons after that miserable job. But, before she could sink into such worries, her dour expression was clearly noticed.
“If that leak on the research was right, then this is quite the find for the Dragoons, and for your clan, too, from what I understand. These results will mean a lot to both of our superiors. I didn’t have much faith in this mission, and it seems I wasn’t totally mistaken… I don’t like to work too closely with other organisations. However, I can’t argue that you pulled through. I expected a lot less from a strange model of android such as yourself. But, the Colonel clearly saw something in you that I didn’t.”
”It was my p-pleasure. The mission… is the priority, a-above all else. The client shall not be disappointed… whether they’re k-kin, or contractors.”
Standing up straight, the captain appraised his unlikely comrade in her abominable state – but, he did not see her with pity; not anymore. “The mission has been successful. We’ll debrief with your chairman when we return to the outpost.” Stated the Tuffle, all professional at last. “I can see some potential in having an android on hand. UN-11, Maxine – we will be in touch.”
Her wounds still stung, her repairs would take time, and she had a lot of faults to reflect on.
But, the mission was complete.
Be polite, be professional; get results.
The client is your world.
[4314]