[IC] Splintered / Reflections

[Rhona W]

Joint Services Base Jacksonville
Florida,
United States of America
North American Continent
Planet Earth
July 17th
2030
14:00 Hours

Before the 'Zero Day' incident, the US Navy bases at Jacksonville had been an air station and a naval port. Following the 'incident' and then the battle of the Monolith so much of the city had been devastated, that NAS Jacksonville, or 'NAS JAX' had been rebuilt and expanded, along with the base at Mayport.
Jacksonville had seemed like a natural choice, due to being on a Mirror 'nexus', and with the risks of Totality resurgence through the Mirror rift, and the research ongoing there, it had become the unofficial hub for research, as well as defence, for the international - and even interplanetary - community that had built up around the Mirror portals. JAX was the main base, while Mayport remained a homeport for the larger vessels and shipping, with logistics routes that fed back to JAX.

While there were other places that had advanced technologies in place, research and development, and even off-world people living and working there, Jacksonville (and North Florida, by proxy) had become the focal point. The city was still being rebuilt in many places, with a new layout and new buildings occupying the area that had been obliterated by first the 'Zero Day' event and then the following battles. What had remained still showed a lot of scars from the apocalyptic battle, but some areas had regenerated faster than others, driven by the prospect of money to be made and new opportunities. Those looked almost too new, like the paint and glue were still drying.

Among this growing bustle, the headquarters for the SPEAR teams was located on the sprawling base beside the river. Located well for access to both the Mirror network, as well as travel and transportation, and a broad variety of other resources and information as needed, it had numerous runways, piers for water transportation, storage and training facilities, armouries, laboratories, workshops, barracks and accommodations and all the other things that were needed for a modern base of any kind.

The leader of that organization's 3rd Tactical Operations Team was currently tentatively enjoying what had turned out to be a vanishingly rare free day. He'd somehow completed the majority of his daily chores and routines, and had got off-base for once.
He'd utilised his recent US driving Licence and driven his equally relatively new truck a little out of the city and found himself a spot in one of the more quiet, natural parks that had been put aside, bringing a picnic and drinks with him, and a book to enjoy himself with and get lost in.
The parks that had been close to the center of the explosion had been, sadly, razed and destroyed. But the further out one went, the more there was to see and enjoy.
The vulpine-like canuss settled under a tree just off of the walking trail he'd followed, away from the bustle of construction, industry, and the bustle of military life and routine.
He settled down, letting the peace and quiet fill his senses, the natural scents and sounds embrace him, even closing his eye and leaning back against a mossy tree trunk behind him, whiskers twitching to the vibrations.
Incoming priority message
Silverwind growled out a groan at the intrusive, sub-aural notification from his comms implant, reluctantly opening his eye and sighing as he gave the mental command to accept it. Two fingers pressed to just behind his ear, aiding the sub-audio communication and sub-vocalising as the two way audio came in.
"This is Captain Blade, go ahead"
"Captain, this is a priority communication. Your unit has been recalled for an urgent priority mission. A full briefing will be provided when you return to base. Return as soon as possible, and head to your units' ready room for an urgent briefing. The rest of your unit has also been summoned as well"
"Roger that," he replied with a grumble, gathering his possessions and returning them to the backpack he had with him. "Any more details you can give me on what to expect?"
"Wait one, sir," the young-sounding female voice on the other end said, and he took the moment to fasten the bag and sling it back over his shoulders. A moment later, she came back on.
"I can't give exact details over this channel, but I can tell you that it's an off-world mission and time is a factor, sir"
"All right; I'm on my way back. Hopefully the rest of my unit will be as quick off the mark and in easy reach too..."

@Cozure, @Chevaleresse, @FalloutJack, [@DragonMahteru], @Lovely Bones, @Foster, @Smike

[Lovely Bones]

Eye of Hope Clinic, Georgia, USA 10:00 Hours

The loud beeping of dialysis machine drowned the operating room. The patient, heavily sedated on a cocktail of opitaes and sedatives remained stable on the operating table as the lone surgeon delicately peeled back layers of tissue around a small incision on the lower abdomine. Swiftly, precisely, he brought his tweezers into the gap in this man's flesh and just as swiftly removed a splinter of metal which was then placed into a bloody tray filled with similar splinters with an audible tink. He then began replacing and stitching shut the incision before dressing the wound.

The surgeon looked up at the operating mirror, a helm with sprouting horns and a horrowing agonized vissage stared back at him. White and purple scrubs that looked more as ceremonial robes adorned over the figures' towering frame. Then he looked down at his patient, one of many today with wounds that could not be explained by "falling down". It was not his place to deny those who came in need of healing, but he had his suspicions these wounds were gained in the service of rather wicked deeds. "Hmpf. Enjoy this slumber while it lasts my friend, you will feel this when you wake." Before removing his gloves and wheeling out the uncoisious man into a room lined with similar patients being tended by a Gennari in white robe-like scrubs and a small rebreather over his mouth.

The masked medicine man walked down a hall turning into an adjoining office where two individuals waited. One a human man in typical army regailia, the other a Gennari militant with a mask much like his own, only it bore a stoic expression. The Gennari militant and the good doctor stood at attention and crossed their right arm over their chest with a thud. "Kithil." Spoke the doctor. "Kit'mir Halthoth." spoke the Gennari soldier. They then placed hands on each others shoulders and knocked heads before returning to ease, then the thoughts of the two Gennari intermingled. This militant had been one he had saved during the invasion of their home world, though amongst the mountain of masks and gore the surgeon could not recall this Kithil. Then an image flashed in the doctors mind. The winter unending. It was time again to don the plate and raise the shield.

The human miltant then spoke, "We got a team we are putting you on. Get y'er holy arm'erments on. We're leaving in 20." The mans' eyes narrowed as he realized what was about to happen. The two Gennari Warriors swore in unison, their fists over their hearts, "For Vathir Ho! For Coalition!"

[Chevaleresse]

Feanulde was, despite outward appearances, attempting to relax and engage with her hobbies, such that she'd picked them up in her time amongst the Coalition. It happened that said hobbies were nearly indistinguishable from her actual work, as she picked at the guts of some kind of technological device that likely only she recognized at this point. Neatly organized tools hung on or laid atop spartan racks, all placed in ergonomic positions mathematically calculated and placed to a precision that would make an expert clockmaker blush for her specific bodily measurements and frequency of tool use (itself carefully tracked by Feanulde herself, of course.) The same principles held true for the rest of her room, with crisp white blankets on black sheets folded neatly on a bed that looked far too narrow to be comfortable positioned opposite a second desk holding the only sign of disorder in the entire room: an MRE, half-opened then seemingly forgotten.

Such pristine order was as vulnerable as it was exact. In particular, the entire setup on the workbench was surrounded with the scuff marks of minor impacts and scrapes. These aberrations marring the otherwise-perfect surface explained themselves when the elf sitting at the bench shouted, leapt out of her chair, and very nearly physically threw her esoteric project against the wall, sending three different racks tipping into those marks with precision enviable by a practiced marksman. In that precious instant between stimulus and response, her brain made the determination that she was not, in fact, being shelled, assassinated, burglarized, or fired at or near with any form of weaponry, or in any actual danger whatsoever. It was just a call, identified as a military communication by her neurolinked comms suite. "What!?" she barked, setting her device back down on the workbench. "I will be reporting you if you're interrupting me for some frivolous nonsense."

The delay in the person on the other line responding suggested they might've been anticipating such a response. "Your presence is urgently required in your unit's ready room."

"For what?" She didn't shout this question, but her words were even more clipped than usual.

"A task that I am not allowed to share over this channel, Specialist Naraciel."

"That is not my rank."

"Specialist Operator Naraciel, these orders are classified and coming from a superior officer. Please follow protocol." The threat of a counter-report did not need to be stated.

"Fine, fine, yes, I'm on my way." Feanulde hung up before she could hear any reply from the other end of the line, which she didn't know would contain the phrase "pain in the ass" but had a reasonable suspicion given prior encounters with people unused to elven hearing. She quickly put all but the essential thrust of the conversation out of her mind as she turned toward her bed and the drawers it rested on. A quick button press opened the one near the end, containing a pre-packed bag of uniform and necessities for deployment. Said bag was too large for her frame and, by extension, her ability to carry it efficiently, but she didn't have time to retrieve an actual career soldier to pressgang into being her luggage boy. She hoisted it over her shoulders with a grunt, reminding herself to get an actual harness constructed for her things instead of just working with a single-strap bag.

She squatted down to press a significantly more hidden button near the headboard. It was further disguised as a fingerprint scanner; in reality, there was no sensor at all, just an electronic locking system with no direct connections for inputs. Focusing for a moment, she channeled a bit of electricity into it to flip the internal switch, then slid the second drawer out. In it was her sidearm, three magazines, and a holster she proceeded to belt around her waist. Feanulde wasn't likely to be shot at now, but she wasn't going to leave things to any amount of chance, however remote the possibility.

Kit acquired, she walked to her door. The elf paused only briefly to look mournfully at her once-immaculate shelves, before shaking her head, opening the door, and walking out of her military housing and toward the 3rd Tactical Operations Team's ready room elsewhere in the complex.

[Smike]

Jacobin Dokken and Horned Bastard, 202nd of the Ravenous Cohort

Do you still see the Totality as being superior to us?"

Jacobin posed the question neutrally, face displaying nothing but curiosity as she watched her patient. A pen sat balanced between her fingers, notepad in easy reach on the arm of her chair. Across from her sat an alien, a creature right out of science fiction. HB-202RC, or Horned Bastard, 202nd of the Ravenous Cohort, to use their full name, was an impossibility. Towering over men at seven-and-a-half feet tall with blue skin and goat's hooves and a devil's spade tail, they had been born lightyears away to a sect of warrior-monks who taught them how to harness their psychic powers. Upon reaching adulthood, they were snapped up by an intergalactic empire that gave them cybernetic enhancements and specialized training with which to take over the Earth.

A few years ago Jacobin would have written HB off as something out of a forgotten movie script. Now, they were simply another patient.

"To humans, you mean?"

Jacobin nodded. The pair conversed in English, despite neither of them knowing it as a first language. Jacobin had been tutored in the subject as part of her grooming for greatness. HB knew it because they knew every major language on Earth. They spoke English because it was the lingua franca of the SPEAR teams, and it was best to stay in the habit.

"Yes."

"That is a loaded question."

HB shifted, tilting their head as they stared past Jacobin at a spot on the wall. Jacobin could feel a prickling sensation beneath her skin, unable to shake the uncanny valley effect that came from being in such close proximity to a predator. She knew HB could sense her feelings, but if they were bothered by them they never said.

"On the one hand, yes. A thousand times so, that's why this one is talking to you at all. Had we wished it we would have won the war before you knew of our existence. Laboratory-enhanced plagues you have no antibodies for released in your population centers by invisible agents, clouds of poison gas rolling across the continents, and then the detonation of thermonuclear devices in whatever mountains you holed up in, and you would have dropped below the threshold for life to continue. We had conquered multiple empires of sapient peoples before you reached your moon. Even now, you only survive because our forces are spread across the vastness of space. To compare the Totality to humanity is to compare humans to apes; one possesses a certain brute intelligence that should not be underestimated, but the other has fire."

"I see," Jacobin stated simply, scribbling a note for herself in shorthand. "And on the other hand?"

"You possess a tenacity that this one cannot help but respect, as a warrior. You are cornered and alive because the Totality allows it, and yet you fight."

"One might say that it's natural for people under attack to fight back."

"Perhaps. Many of those who were brought into the fold fought at first, but many saw they were outmatched and joined without much bloodshed. The latter is certainly wiser."

"You think we shouldn't fight, then?"

HB didn't answer, their tail flicking against a chair leg.

"Is that what HB thinks, or what the Suppression Officer thinks?"

"Does it matter?"

"I wouldn't ask if it didn't."

HB turned their head slowly, gaze sliding down to meet Jacobin's. Meeting those eyes was always an intense experience, dull red pools that hid deep intelligence and an uncanny ability to size people up. It reminded Jacobin of a butcher breaking down a carcass, mentally splitting the animal apart into all of its distinct portions.

"There is no difference between the two."

"HB. We talked about this."

Her voice was soft, genuine to the point of almost-earnestness. They had been over this point ten times and they'd go over it another ten or more until it sank in.

"You are capable of being more than what they made you. You are more than what they tried to make you."

Her patient didn't respond, still staring straight ahead. Jacobin allowed them space to speak if they wished but when it became clear that they wouldn't, pressed on

"I'm curious as to why you don't think so."

"How could this one have changed?" HB asked in a dreamlike whisper. "It was made to do this, quite literally. It was built from the ground up to hunt and then enlisted by the Totality, granted weapons and augmentations that honed it to a razor's edge. This one does nothing but kill, even now that it's working for the Coalition."

"But you do work for the Coalition." Jacob retorted, seizing on that inarguable fact. "You don't have to; you could have stayed in custody and potentially been released upon being deemed not a threat. You were making progress with me, had we stuck with it you would have been out and walking free...or at least mostly free. And yet you chose to put yourself in danger for strangers."

"What else would this one do?" HB demurred. "All it knows is how to fight, how to kill."

"Even if we were to pretend that was true, you could have picked any mercenary force on Earth. Any number of governments and insurgencies would have paid handsomely for your services. Instead you decided to fight directly against the Totality with your former enemies."

"If you're suggesting that this one feels guilt, then yes. Guilt does not make one good, or even different. A tree is not something other than a tree just because it suffers in winter."

Earlier in her career Jacobin would have struggled to keep a straight face, but now? This was classic deprogramming.

"And so you think that because you're still fighting, you're still the same as you were, even though you're fighting for the opposite cause."

"Killing is killing, no? Righteously or unrighteously, for the Totality or the Coalition, this unit will take lives like it always has."

"Okay, fine. We'll stick a pin in that. You talk about what you do with the Coalition, but what do you think about it?"

HB hummed tunelessly, a trick they used when shifting to a new train of thought. It was a self-soothing gesture, not that they would have used that terminology.

"It is...interesting, having such free will. This one is allowed to go where it wants under relatively little supervision, to spend its time working or lazing about as it pleases when not on missions. Honestly, it finds itself paralyzed by choice. In the Totality there was always an objective. This one spent weeks or months in the field, observing and stalking, then reported in to be redeployed to the next task. It always had a goal, even if it was as simple as making camp for the night."

"Do you like the people?"

"No. But it doesn't matter, the people don't like this unit."

"How could you possibly know that?"

She asked the question a half-second before realizing who she was talking to, HB's flat stare conveying silent amusement.

"...right."

"Most of those who encounter this unit and know its story despise it or distrust it, understandably. Even some of the officers in charge who signed off on its presence would rather it not be here."

Community was a key part of escaping bad influences, and HB did not have one. There was no one to blame for it, and nothing to do except keep on keeping on.

"I think that once you've spent some time in the field with the team, you'll naturally find camaraderie."

HB seemed to consider this, thoughtfully tucking a strand of hair behind one of their horns.

"Perhaps. Perhaps not. Either way, it will not mean much in the end."

"Why not?"

HB looked at Jacobin as if she were the dumbest person in the world. They reminded her of a cat gazing reproachfully at their owner when its silent missives went unnoticed.

"Assuming the Coalition wins, they will destroy this unit in revenge."

Whoah. Jacobin's pen, poised to scrawl more notes, fell against the pad as she lost her facade for a single, crucial second. She hadn't expected that answer; she couldn't have. It was just so anathema to her way of thinking that she would never would have imagined it.

"Okay." she said finally, subtly clearing her throat. "Why would they?"

"This one's words upset you."

They said it as matter-of-factly as they had predicted their killing, like reporting on the weather.

"That startled me, admittedly. I apologize for the distraction. Anyway, why would they 'destroy' you?"

This time HB laughed, a hoarse chuckle that seemed to grate their throat.

"How could they not? Their people will want blood, and rightfully so. This one killed their families, it bombed their capital cities, and spread fear through their nations. On Earth, you say that the enemy of your enemy is your friend, but that of course stops being true when the common foe is defeated."

Jacobin was compelled to dig deeper into this claim; already forming hypotheses and quelling them before they could color her diagnosis. A hell of a bomb to drop, and before she could start sifting through the wreckage-

"This one is summoned. Presumably you are as well."

Damn it all. The Pebble in Jacobin's pocket was vibrating; HB must have gotten a message through their communication augment.

"We'll pick up on this later." she promised, scanning the message on her Pebble. "Let's go."

She tucked her notepad away into the bag slung over the back of her wheelchair before pushing off, rolling towards the operations room with H-Bomb following behind.

[Cozure]

Veep and Siva ran through the streets together, two young Felness brothers laughing happily as they dodged through crowds of people going about their business.
"Come on Veep! Catch up with me!" called Siva as he ran ahead. Veep tried to keep up, but the crowd was becoming denser.
"SIVA! Wait for me!"
As he pushed through the crowd, Veep could see Siva up ahead, waving at him. Running to catch up, he was suddenly blocked my a roar of engines as a convoy of military vehicles rumbled between the two of them. Suddenly there was another noise. Gunfire! Shouting! Explosions! Louder! Louder! LOUDER!!
"SIIIVAAAA!!!"

With a start, Veep awoke. His head was covered in sweat and the covers of the bed had been kicked off. He must've been thrashing in his sleep again. He'd been dreaming of his brother. The same would happen every few nights. Different dreams but always the same subject. Losing his brother. The fact that he didn't know whether Siva was alive or dead must be the cause of these recurring nightmares. In a way he wanted confirmation one way or the other, but he was also scared to receive that confirmation.
What if the worst had happened? What if he was a prisoner, being tortured and mutilated and ... a shudder ran through Veep's whole body as he forced himself to stop contemplating such terrible things. Siva was dead. That's what he chose to believe. Dead and at peace. He got up and dressed, then headed downstairs.

Veep was staying with a human family who lived on a farm, in a small village on the outskirts of Jacksonville. Annie, a friendly woman, her husband, Jeff, who was gruff but warm, and their young son, Freddie who was hardworking on the farm and quite playful. They had taken him in when he first came to Earth and they had become like a surrogate family to him. They'd even helped set him up with the Coalition's SPEAR division to which he now reported to. He enjoyed their company during these times when he was off duty.

Annie looked up as he entered the room.
"Afternoon sleepyhead."
"Afternoon? What time is it?" Veep asked with confusion.
"It's nearly two." Annie replied kindly. "Jeff and I heard you tossing and turning last night. Thought we'd let you sleep in. We saved you a sandwich from breakfast though."
"Thank you." Veep retrieved the sandwich from the fridge then sat down at the table. After adding his Felness supplements, he tucked in. Through the window he could see Jeff and Freddie working the field.

Just then, the buzz of his pebble broke the silence. Veep activated the comms.
"Operator Veep. You are required to report to JAX immediately for an urgent mission. Details will be provided on site."
"Affirmative." Veep responded formally. "I'll catch the next transport and be there within the hour." He looked at Annie. "Sorry I won't be able to help feed the animals today. I have to head in."
"Oh don't you worry about that. You just keep yourself safe you hear?"
Annie hugged him warmly.
"I will. I'll come back when I can."
Veep returned to his room to gather his equipment. He came back down to find Jeff and Freddie waiting to see him off.

After bidding his farewells, he headed to the nearby outpost to catch a transport back to JAX. He didn't know what lay ahead, but he'd do whatever it took to hurt the Totality. For Siva.
"I'll make you proud of me brother. Just you wait and see."

[FalloutJack]

Kerris Dagorath

Bonneville Flats, Utah

The Earth has seen its share of battlezones, with plenty of prime locations destroyed, yet there were still areas of unspoiled paradise - according to the humans - where they may partake in the motorized ritual of high-speed racing...

For years, human beings have come to this unassuming stretch of flat salty land for the purpose engaging in motorized entertainment with few pesky laws to actually get in the way. It was a self-regulated event, but if you wanted to drive in excess of 100 MPH, you could. Take any car you want out there, make whatever changes in performance you think are necessary, and have a drive. Events originally started with drag stripping to see how fast you could go, flat-out, while people could do as they pleased outside of what was considered the official grounds. However, in later years, they added something else to the mix: Rally stages.

"Race Three on Track Two is ready to begin! Racers, to your position!"

It was just a simple outlining of cones with some outlines marked into the ground with tools, outlining the rugged course of difficult terrain. And there, in the third car in the ranks - the jeep with the rollcage and no roof to accommodate her horns - was Kerris Dagorath. She was in her usual attire, with just the alteration of two things. First, it was a white t-shirt she had on so the salt dust wouldn't be as noticeable, and second, she was wearing a mask. Specifically, it was a set of shaded goggles with a nose piece that someone had helpfully given her, because while - as a Dranfel - she could stand the heat, the light, and the dust, it was still annoying, and she came out here to have some fun.

"GO!"

Her boot-laden foot slammed on the gas as they got started, tail coming out to adjust the gears as she and the other cars got moving. Kerris was considered fairly expert in vehicle operation, given the way she handled them. Maybe not to the extent of the three wise men who once traveled the world in hair-raising hijinx and adventure, but give her time. She was self-taught AND THEN military-trained in things. This was her fifth race of the day, and despite all difficulty of her life previously on her home planet, the lady Dranfel was enjoying herself. The race was on fire, the wind was whipping through her dark locks, and the car rumbled furiously with a life of its own. However, all good things must come to an end, as the Pebble she'd stuck by her ear interrupted the music she was playing with an incoming call.

"Hmmm. Answer call."

"Operator Dagorath?"

"One of them."

"We're calling you both in, ma'am. Your team has been chosen to take part in a mission, and we need you back at base in Jacksonville for briefing, ASAP."

"I assume you know where I am."

"Yes, ma'am. A jet has been sent. It will land near your location."

"Good. I'll make my way to it shortly."

She ended the call, but then opened up a new one.

"Bonneville Control, this is Kerris Dagorath. I am in need of departure. Permission to exit the race at speed to link up with transport."

"Permission granted. Be safe out there."

"It will be done. You may pick up the vehicle later, at your leisure."

She switched back on the music, and when the opening presented itself, just drove right out of the rally stage, due east in order to have the incoming jet zero in on her and land. Soon after, the Dranfel stopped the car and flipped herself onto the hood, before taking a high leap and dropping to a point nearby. It was actually not a military jet, but a private jet. Climbing aboard, a man closed the door behind her and signalled the pilot to take off. Kerris looked around the cabin with some interest.

"Rather luxurious for military use."

"It seemed a little better than sending two separate jets when your brother is so nearby and we may need them in case of emergency."

"'Tis true. Anything could happen."

The plane was already in the air, and now headed towards...

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Maxon Dagorath

Reno, Nevada

Really, a card game was just an engagement in simple mathematics, trying to figure out if their X would beat out your Y, and how. To a fellow like Maxon, it was really no more than a diversion, keeping his mind busy while his body waited for something to do. Gambling was just a funny little edge to the game, because really...what he was after was nothing more than the atmosphere, the act in of itself, while he idly sipped something alcoholic in a calm atmosphere lit with the slight tension of trying to beat someone at their own game. He even had a cigar, though...due to the fact that the nicotine has no real effect on him, it was hardly the addictive tube of frustration that it was for most humans.

"And therein lies the heart of the matter. My sister enjoys human articles, such as the clothing, because it's comfortable, but I find it not so accessible, due to the problem of size."

Kerris was like an amazon warrior, while Maxon was a Dranfel slab of meat. He had to grab one of the offered sandwiches at the table between thumb and forefinger, so that his claws wouldn't just slice it apart before it reached his mouth, and he could shove the whole sandwich IN his mouth comfortably, and even swallow it whole without difficulty.

"There are many things that just don't apply to me, due to some of the limitations, or because I'm a traditionalist who doesn't prefer them. Even the alcohol has a limited effect, though I do enjoy the flavor."

One of the other players - one of three other humans - looked at him.

"Isn't there anything in our culture you like?"

"Certainly. The robes are quite plush and flowing. The food is pleasant and nourishing. And besides...the reason I came here was for this relaxing atmosphere."

"Yeah, well, you're up. You holdin' or foldin'?"

"I bet twenty."

This would continue on until there was a vibrating chirp from his pocket. The Dranfel frowned a bit before raising a clawed finger.

"A moment, if you would."

He turned and drew out the Pebble from his pocket, the end of his tail coming down on his cards, keeping anyone from looking. There, he activated the projection screen to take the message in text form on the smooth surface of his own leg pad. Yes... It seemed his break time was at an end. Pity. As the jet was incoming, he would have to get out outside of town for pick-up. The couldn't exactly land in the street, after all. After the bright and busy town of Las Vegas had been smashed by the Totality in a bid to crush human morale, Reno picked up as the new gambling den of the area. Still, he was obliged to finish the hand first, as it would take but a moment. He turned back to the others.

"This will be my final hand today. Call."

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Aboard the plane, now headed for Jacksonville Base in Florida, Maxon took a heavy slump of a seat nearby his sister.

"So, brother...did you win?"

"Indeed. Apparently, our species has quite the poker face. They find it difficult to figure out our...tell."

They then turned to the other man in the cabin, who also sat nearby.

"What can you tell us about the mission?"

"I'm afraid the most of it will have to be explained during briefing, ma'am. Matters of secrecy, preventing the enemy from overhearing, you understand."

"Inside our own territory?"

"Well, we're always trying to explore new ways to intercept their transmissions. It only makes sense tha they'll be developing new ways into ours. That's while old-style code-phrases are still in effect."

"Very well. What can you tell us?"

"Only that you will be going off-world. The rest you hear back at base."

...which would take a few hours, so they could take a rest along the way. Jacksonville would already know their ETA along with anybody else's, so the meeting would probably be waiting for them as they got back.

[Rhona W]

Sometime Later

It had taken a few hours that had gone quick until the team were all reassembled - and had been redirected to one of the bases' hangars, with Kerris and Maxon were taken off of the personnel transport and straight onto a heavier military cargo transport jet. The hold of the plane was filled with transport trucks loaded with their MAS Suits and the weapons, ammunition and support equipment for them. As soon as everyone was aboard, the loadmaster directed them all to sit and strap in, while the jets' engines wound up to speed and it started to move as the rear ramp closed. The noise inside the aircraft was too loud to speak at anything above a scream without a headset on, and they were each given ones - appropriate to their species - as the noise grew and the huge cargo jet started to roll, the engine sound growing too loud even for conversation over the headsets until the sound died away and the acceleration after the climb died off. The loadmaster's voice came over their headsets, telling them they were free to unstrap themselves and move around the bay, until Silverwind told them to stay on the channel while he ran through their briefing.

"All right, everyone. Listen up. I know you're all as annoyed as me that we got called back into action instead of havin' a long deserved day off, but that's th' nature of the thing. Best we can do is get on with it an' hope that we can deal with this situation quick enough ta get back to some free time. As y'all mighta noticed, we're on a flight overseas. We're headin' to a country called Egypt; it's th' place with those big pyramids y'all mighta seen on TV or wherever. A research team were explorin' through a portal there. They'd found a inhabitable planet on the other side and it showed traces of a civilization. They were in contact periodically, until eight hours ago, they missed a scheduled check-in. They sent a probe through and..."
Silver sent a message through to their pebbles on the shared squad channel and the video showed grainy footage. It was a world that looked quite a lot like some of the more idyllic regions of Earth, particularly like Canada, with it's pine forests. The main difference was the colour of some of the plants, and the ringed planet that filled the sky.
A panoramic view showed gently rolling grassy plains with hills rising in the near distance, and copses of the pine-looking trees and lush vegetation. Time skipped onward through the drone probe's cameras, shown by the time index in the bottom corner rolling forward and the view changing to much closer to the hills - and then pillars of smoke drifting upward, along with the unmistakable shapes of Totality gunships in the skies above, their techno-organic shapes wheeling and moving through the skies with eerie agility.
"'Bout that point the drone turned around and headed back fer the mirror, as there weren't much it coulda done anyhow. But there's a coupla issues here fer us to be lookin' into. First is, the exploration team cut off hours before the Totality destroyed th' outpost. Which means they coulda got away, or it coulda been somethin' else that caused it to happen.
"Second thing - an' more of a worry - is that the Totality got access to this planet, an' it weren't through the mirror we're goin' to - which means there's one to one of the worlds they have access to on th' planet somewhere else... or they got there some other way. Either way, it's only one step away from another front they can open up on Earth, and we don't want that. So, that's yer explanation fer the urgency, at least".
The display he'd sent through showed the location of the mirror, out in the egyptian desert in a rocky, hilly area. Footage from the Earth side showed it barely protected, with only the mobile laboratory trailer and a security detail present.
"Place is so remote, that it's gonna take the local armed forces hours to move anything significant into the area other than light troops an' airpower. Nearest airport that can take this bird is eighty miles out, so we gotta drive once we hit ground too. Gonna take us at least eight hours combining the flight and the drive even at the fastest we can make it, which is why it was important we get movin' ASAP".
He looked around at them across the bay and nodded.
"Reckon y'all might have questions, so I'll do my best ta answer 'em. If not, prolly best ya get some rest while ya can. Apparently this thing has a kitchen of sorts up front too if yer hungry or thirsty too"

@Smike, @Chevaleresse, @FalloutJack, @Cozure, @Lovely Bones

[Lovely Bones]

The brilliant white lenses of the agonized mask returned to being black void as the video feed from the pebble died. The figure remained seated with a relaxed posture, seeming to look ahead directly at their CO. It gave a slight tilt of his head, considering for a moment his next words while he oriented hismelf to his airborne invirement, detecting the electomagnetic signals of the life forms around him, appearing as almost white sparks in the periphery of his mind. Then he considered the other members of his warband. Both what he knew of them and what he didn't know.

The distant battered old vet with a shadow about him, that Devil, his kith and the broken yet unbending one who called herself Valkyrie. The... mildly undiciplined Elf in their midst, Fae. Veep, he who was stalwart yet seems to harbor a wounded spirit. The personable agumented battle biomechanical doctor? Doc Wish. The... he wasn't really sure what species she is exactly, perhaps a biomutant? The dauntless "four-foot-hate", Felix. Then the sardonically snarky siblings; the mercurial and contemptive shadow warrior: Karris, and the brazen spiked wall of scale and metal, Maxon. One couldn't imagine that such impertinents could come from any beings older than their twentieth year. Then again, he couldn't be too harsh on them. After all, his newfound warkin, this SPEAR team was made of such a disperate band of weirdos.

Keeper laughed a guttural and hearty sadistic laugh, then looking around to the members of his squad before gesturing to his CO with his hands. "Commander, I'm always ready to repel and purge the degenerate faithless dogs the Totality calls 'soldiers', but hopefully our intel has given us more of an idea of what resistance we could be facing?", he asked with a mix of mirthful anticipation and skepticism, with his deep, slightly compressed voice. Keeper then gave a quick tilt of the head, before leaning back in his seat.

[Cozure]

Having listened to the briefing, Veep felt a surge of anticipation. Time to make the Totality pay for everything they've taken from everyone. From him. He looked round at the others in the bay. He had done all his SPEAR training with this lot, but didn't really know much about them personally. He had seen their skills and prowess and felt that he could rely on them in a pinch. In fact, the thing he was worried about the most, was himself.

All the training, the drills, the mock battles, it would all be for nought if he let his anger and pain overwhelm him at the wrong moment. He HAD to keep a lid on it. He didn't want to let the side down. Everything was ok, everything was fine. He'd do his job and do it well. Veep arranged his face into a smile of determination and stood up.

Welp, I'm gonna go check out my equipment and make sure everything is in order. Don't want the MAS weapons jamming at the wrong moment right?

With a flick of his tail, he turned and headed towards where his MAS was strapped down. He didn't know if anyone could see through his smile, but if anyone asked, he'd just play it down. It's perfectly normal to be a bit tense before a live combat scenario after all. That's all this was. He braced against the MAS and took a few deep breaths, while running through the suit operations in his head.

[Chevaleresse]

Feanulde occupied herself with going over a list of protocols, codes, and procedures in her seat, doing her best to shut out the rest of the team. Doctor Dokken was familiar with her, and was probably the one she trusted the most not to opportunistically shoot her in the back. Or the front. The rest, though? It was difficult not to think about their reasons for being here, such that she even knew them, and how most of them revolved around the desire to crush the Totality, see the Totality driven before them, et cetera, as Val'kos had just made abundantly clear. It was not terribly difficult to see most of the members of this, or, well, any SPEAR team taking the opportunity to visit some impromptu justice upon a perceived agent of their hated foe, the actual extent of their wrongdoing be damned.

Of course, the one thing able to break through her many layers of anxiety was a threat to her ego. "The weapons won't jam, she said sharply, her accent flaring up in her irritation. "I've conducted at least one personal inspection on each piece of MAS equipment going on this trip, unless some fool changed the manifest at the last moment." To her credit, she resisted the urge to comment on one the very few benefits of such primitive technology being a relative dearth of points of failure. The elf rose from her seat with a small twitch of her ears, and stalked after Veep, aiming to beat the Felness to their mechanized armor.

[FalloutJack]

The mission must have been important if the two of them were diverted from reaching the base, and instead were taken to a cargo plane, already being readied. They simply wouldn't be in such a rush unless every moment counted. Naturally, the rest of the group filtered in to join them, starting with Silver, their canine commando. Not the words of the two Dranfel, but what others called him in the base, sometimes. Kerris prefered 'Canus Militus'. A bit of Earth Latin. Still, to the briefing... Once they'd taken off and things were a bit quieter, they could hear what this was all about, and with all the heavy equipment that had been loaded with them.

It started with a simple exploration mission in the country of Egypt, evidence of a lush planet, and then...a loss of contact. Steeling herself, Kerris knew what was coming next, as did Maxon. They wouldn't be called unless the very next thing was the Totality. And sure enough, as they were shown the on-planet probe feet...soon they saw evidence of Totality forces. They had attacked this little world. There was just a muttering from Maxon, who rumbled a bit, saying "Rescue missions are difficult...", assuming that's what this was. Silver would continue, and as he went on, it seemed more two-fold. They had to do something about how easily the Totality could come here if they retained access to that world.

He finished up by underlining the miniscule amount of coverage they had in Egypt, the time it would take to get there, and the fact that they should use their time to clear up any confusion, rest, or eat via the on-board kitchen.

"I could eat. What of you, brother?"

He held up a hand.

"Quite full, as of now."

They wouldn't move off to whatever they were to do next without attaining more information first. There was plenty of time for all of that, if they had eight hours. Kerris could see the Felness, Veep, already stalking off to go check on equipment. There was a little body language there that suggested a little nervousness. Understandable, considering she and Veep were similarly skilled. Feanulde insisted that the weapons would be fine with almost the same fervor as the Keeper and his desire to visit justice on the Totality. It was at this point in time that the Dranfel decided to chime in.

"I don't like that our position, this side, was not secured. Could they set up umm...? What is it? I read about this. A camoflaging tarp used in the older human wars to prevent detection of something from the sky? Place taut over the mirror, it may buy some time."

"The bigger question is whether or not the mirror's position is known already. The Totality - as I know them - prefer a location to be secure before acting on it, but if a scout has already spotted it, our time will be very limited, and our edge will be lost."

That is, if the mirror's position was not yet known, the Totality would likely proceed at their usual pace in securing the area. But if it were known and a scout were to penetrate to Egypt in short order, then they would setup an outpost right then, and it would be heavy combat for their team from the word go, instead of some potential infiltration before the bloodshed.

[Cozure]

Upon hearing Feanulde call after him, Veep tensed. Dammit. His throwaway line to get away from the others has provoked an unexpected response. He forced the smile back onto his face and turned to face the approaching Elf.

You say you've checked them all already? But I wanna check it again. Our lives rely on these contraptions after all.

Yes, they do, Fey huffed. Which is why I have already checked them thoroughly. I do, in fact, know what I am doing, and have had far more access to them than most of the personnel on this team. She didn't go quite as far as stating it outright, but it didn't take an expert in body language to know that she felt offended by the insinuation that the equipment could possibly need another check.

Veep faltered under the penetrating gaze upon him.
I... I mean.... I didn't mean..." He sighed. "Ok look, I'll level with you. I wasn't actually gonna check the equipment, I was just using that as an excuse to be on my own.

The elf rolled her eyes in response. Well, then you should say what you mean. Both of us have already wasted far more time and effort than necessary on this conversation, she says irritably. It's not as if solitude is some sort of special privilege.

A surge of irrational anger surged through him.
Well nobody told you to come over and start berating me just for wanting to apparently check the damned equipment! Now, since that's apparently unnecessary, I'll go get a drink. I suggest you don't follow me.

Without waiting for a response, Veep turned and headed towards the canteen area. The anger quickly giving way to regret. He'd lost his temper, and with such little provocation. What hope did he have to keep it under control when faced with the Totality forces? He had a feeling Feanulde wasn't gonna take what he said lying down either. He braced himself for whatever would happen next.

Fortunately for Veep's nerves, Feanulde's reply was rather understated compared with his expectation. The elf stiffened, and looked as if she might launch into some sort of tirade. . . but the energy in it faded almost as quickly as it had appeared, replaced with muttering under her breath about "inefficiency" and a halfhearted complaint about his lack of gratitude that a human likely wouldn't have caught at all. She started toward the MAS bay despite her own insistence that all was fine with their equipment, already trying to put the encounter out of her mind.

[Smike]

Jacobin Dokken and Horned Bastard, 202nd of the Ravenous Cohort

Jacobin and HB's military careers were separated by space, time, training, and role, but nevertheless they had things in common. A perennial one was the human adage of 'hurry up and wait'. Rush rush rush, go go go! Race to ready yourself for the next thing and then-

Sit around for a few hours waiting for the meeting to actually start.

"So it goes." HB had said upon arriving at the meeting room, sitting down cross-legged in a meditative stance.

Jacobin cast a glance at her patient, chuckling.

"You read Vonnegut, I take it?"

"Indeed."

Jacobin raised an eyebrow, unsure if the taciturn Zealot was having fun with her.

"You're surprised?"

"I guess I just didn't think you much of a fan of literature." she admitted. "I would have assumed that an anti-war novel would not have been on the Totality's required reading list."

"If a work is well-known on Earth or otherwise influential to the cultures thereon, this unit is likely familiar with it. If it deals with war in some way, assume that this one has it memorized."

Right. Their file did note an 'intensive education on all aspects of human history, ' after all.

-------
For their part, HB was more focused on those they did not know on a personal level as opposed to the good Doctor Dokken. There was a second Gennari zealot present (zealot in the generic sense, his order was not their own), comparatively young but experienced in his own way. HB was expecting trouble from him, not that he could be blamed for squabbling with them. The black-furred Felness was something of a known entity, his service long, but his reliability was to be determined; fighting from a place of trauma was potentially dangerous. HB actually knew quite a bit about Feanulde, none of it particularly good or bad. Funny to see a familiar face, of a sort. The siblings were likely the most valuable of HB's teammates; before the SPEAR team, they had a role analogous to the Zealots' own. And then there was the other educated member of the unit, an American. Having multiple medical personnel couldn't hurt.

That left only their leader. A veteran of the Coalition who had been there when Xerxes fell, he was a natural choice for commander; few had his years of experience working with and leading such a mixed bag of agents. That said, the SPEAR initiative seemed somewhat heavy for any one man to bear. HB could not help but hope a clear chain of command was formed, or else some of the strong personalities would end up clashing in the event Silverwind was shot down.

The alien considered their questions carefully, calmly watching one of those afore-mentioned strong personalities bristle with rage. They could sense the discomfort in Veep, and Jacobin probably noticed it as well. No doubt the psychologist would be following up on that later.

"Egypt is not Coalition officially, as this one recalls. Is local resistance anticipated?"

The North African country lacked the budget and technology of the more advanced Earth nations but stll had access to a variety of anti-tank systems and aircraft, any of which could damage or destroy a MAS suit. If combat was expected on the local side of the border, HB wanted to know beforehand.

[Lovely Bones]

Keeper remained in his somewhat relaxed position, his gazed firmly fixed upon his commander as Veep rose and went to check on the weapons condition. Understandable, one could never be to prepared for battle, though the masked soldier was fairly confident in the condition and reliability of the weapons. Then the elf spoke up, drawing his gaze away from his Commander, her insistance the condition of the weapons perfect conditoin, her indignance barely concieled as she chased after him. As mildly amusing as that was, he wondered on the commanders temperment, what did the fox tolerate? His silent gaze retuned to his commander yet again.

Then the siblings raised another good question, had the defenders prepared? ...and the food, it would be good to get a hot meal before they are stuck with MREs again. Finally, the old one, she reinforced his question. What resistance would the SPEAR team be facing? There had to be more information about their enemies? Keeper's silent gaze remained on his commander, awaiting instruction, extrapolation, and watching for the steel or weakness of the ol' fox-face by his coming conduct now that the training wheels are off.

[Rhona W]

Silverwind was quite pleased, in a way, that he did get questions back. It meant that the unit were engaged, paying attention, and thinking actively about things. Keeper was the first to speak up, and as always; the Gennari's mixture of warm, personable jollity and zealous speech was slightly unnerving.
Silver manipulated his pebble's controls and the images, calling up the depressingly limited packet of data that had sent along with the briefing.
"Miserably less than I'd like, Keeper. There'll be more by the time we land, I have no doubt. They'll have had time to pore over things and get more info by then. But from what was in the video sent and what we know about their tactics and strategy, at least two to four attack gunships, and they won't be there without ground troops to actually do the exploration and taking and holding ground. Not sure how many, but at least a reinforced scout platoon; so that's about twelve standard troops with light infantry weapons supported by either a couple of heavy armoured troops, or heavy synths. Nothin' our MAS shouldn't be able to deal with - mebbe the gunships'd be a bit of a challenge - but nothin' to be taken lightly. But I reckon that ain't the whole picture".

Before he could say much more, Veep and Fea had their little squabble. He was surprised at it; but didn't interfere - not yet; it didn't seem likely to boil up into much more just yet, but he made a mental note to keep an eye on it. It was probably just pre-mission jitters, and there was plenty of time for them to be resolved and dealt with over the course of the flight. Besides which, tearing a chunk off of either of them in front of the others wouldn't do much for morale or unity, especially over a minor snap. Better to talk to them both individually and more personably and resolve it that way - if, indeed, there was anything to be resolved. And there was time enough.
Thankfully, Kerris and Maxon adding their thoughts gave his train of thought a chance to switch rails, and he addressed their words next.
"Good thought, Kerris. I dunno if they already tried something similar, but I can pass the idea along in any reply I send. Maybe it'll help, even if jus' fer a little while", he nodded to Maxon, the bigger of the pair and continued. [color=light blue]"I agree - we're against the clock already, so bein' able to move inta position swiftly will be essential. I'll try and see if I can arrange alternate transport from th' airport to our destination. Might be helicopters or somethin' that can get us there quicker'n road. But either way, yer right that we're gonna to be playin' catch-up. If the Totality have discovered the Mirror, then I suppose we'll gonna have to deal with that in whatever way we can."[/color]
His ears pricked up as HB, the other Gennari of their team spoke up. His experience with them during the training they'd carried out so far had been curious. They seemed inseparable from the - relatively; he was hardly in a position to comment with his own height - diminutive human woman. Currently in her wheelchair, he knew that she had no problems with mobility when it came to the battlefield and an MAS. Still, the duo had a curious sort of relationship. Sometimes it was like a therapist and patient, others it was like a teacher and student. He of course knew full well about their history - although, he suspected there was a fair amount of redacted content - and it was plain upon their skin as well, and in that almost dreamy-eyed expression and their manner of speech. However, the Gennari had something of a beauty and... allure to them physically that was enticing to him, even if their mannerisms were a little... unconventional. The question they asked though, was absolutely relevant, and he nodded as he listened, before replying.
"You're right, HB. Egypt ain't a member of the Coalition, but I think the fact a mirror opened up in their back garden and the the Totality swarmin' through it has 'em a lot more willin' t' be friends and be, mm, graciously cooperative than they might be otherwise. I reckon we might get a l'il rudeness, snobbery, an' personal hostility from some nationals if we have ta deal with any of 'em. But I don't reckon they're about to treat us as hostiles or try and open fire on us. They're likely t' be more worried about the Totality... but yeah, keepin' an eye on our own backs is prob'ly worth doin' too".

There weren't anymore questions after that, so he dismissed them and left them to move around the plane, or take care of whatever business they can, now they were in flight. He took the chance to do the same himself. He'd shoved a few drinks into his pack, along with a number of snacks; quickly chomping down a power bar and taking a good long drink from a bottle of 7-up that was just about on the edge of cold. He cast a one-eyed glance around at the others, seeing what they were up to and gathering his own thoughts. Bereft of something more to do, he idly crossed over to the transport trucks and the units' MAS suits lined up alongside them and strapped down into transport positions. He knew the machine would be in optimum condition - or, at least, it should be - but the actions were more, as he'd thought earlier about Veep's own, something to do to occupy the mind and hands, rather than sitting there and stewing.

[Cozure]

After getting a drink, Veep sat on the floor of the plane, his back up against one of the transport truck wheels. His eyes were closed and he was taking long, slow breaths, though his twitchy tail betrayed his agitation.

He reached for the locket around his neck and opened it. He looked at the picture inside. He and Siva, young, happy, their arms round each other. This had been taken before the Totality had reached their little community in the hills. The threat had seemed so far away, until it wasn't. But before that, the brothers had often enjoyed playing. Climbing the hills and rolling down the slopes laughing. He focused on that memory and held it inside as he closed his eyes again. As the minutes passed his heartbeat slowed to normal and his tail stopped twitching. He wouldn't describe himself as content exactly, but he certainly felt calmer than he had since getting the call for duty.

He briefly considered apologising to Feanulde but given how irritable she seemed, he felt that approaching her so soon after an argument would only rile him up again and undo his calming meditation. Best to keep distance for the time being. So instead he accessed the mission briefing files on his Pebble and started to study them more closely.

[Lovely Bones]

Keeper stood, saluting his commander before Silverwind nade his exit. His new commander was laxer then he was accustomed to, but the handsoff attitude to minor infractions was something he had grown to prize amongst leadership. He looked to the siblings, contemplating going to get some grub along with them, but remembering a joke of his could cause a brawl, decided against. Then he looked upon the other Gennari, the turncoat his right eye twitching with contempt. There was Fae, honestly he didn't want to deal with her eccentricity right before battle. Finally, he was concerned as to the state of Veep given his fleetness from the briefing.

Well that settles it. "I'm off to check our armorments. Don't eat all the good stuff before I get to the kitchen.", he said playfully, turning on his hoof and heading in the same direction as Veep and Fae, his paled tail flicking one of his black coattails free from the kneegaurd it had been caught on.

[Cozure]

The tread of his plated hooves echoed down the corridor. Eating was a sacred thing when not on the field of battle, so he went to beckon his wayward squad mates. Veep was the first found. He kept his pace on approach and though he wasn't well versed in the behaviour of felness, Veep seemed in a meloncholic trance, how the Earthly sort would say: nostalgic.

Welp, no time for such sadness on the eve of battle, time to ruin the moment! VEEP! One should not sulk alone before battle, come, let us eat and sober our minds before our victory!, Keeper joyfully exclaimed as he approached with his arms outstretched as if in a come-at-me pose.

Veep looked up in surprise, his wide, green eyes wet with tears. He wiped them dry and stood up, unable to quite comprehend the sudden change in atmosphere. Keeper seemed quite jovial. Perhaps that's just what Veep needed right now. No arguing, no being lost in his own torment, just a nice distraction.

Sure. Food. Yeah, it's been a few hours and that was only a sandwich. I could eat. Probably a good idea to be properly fuelled up before we get there.

Even through the pale white and red painted world of his infrared lenses, he could almost make out the wetness of Veeps eyes. That's disheartening, but we all had our low moments. The eve of battle might not be the best time, but when their operation had concluded, it might be good for Veep to have someone to talk to. Besides, though a grim note, this could be their last meal. The masked warrior resisted the urge to invade Veeps mind, though he already knew in his soul that what the felness felt was grief.

Keeper clapped his hands on his dark chrome breastplate a couple times as he approached, That's the spirit. Can't embody righteous judgement on an empty stomach. He finished both his words and his approach by clapping his squad mate on the back, attempting to coax him into walking with him to where the food is stored. Come then, before the rest of the crew eat all the good stuff. The siblings will have eaten all the egg! Oh. How were the state of the weapons?

Ah the weapons, yeah, I actually didn't check them. Feanulde made it quite clear that it wasn't necessary to check them. Veep gave a wry chuckle as they entered the kitchen area. I guess that means if they DO fail in the heat of battle, I'll certainly have a few choice words for that Elf.

After picking up some food, Veep pulled out a small bottle and removed a single pill from it. He then cracked open the pill and sprinkled it over the food. Noticing Keeper watching, and realising how this would look if one didn't have proper context, Veep suddenly blurted out It's not drugs! Don't worry. Just nutritional supplements. He showed the bottle as proof.

Dunno how much you know of my kind, but while Felness can eat human food, it doesn't provide enough nutrients on its own. I have to take supplements with every meal to stay healthy. Fortunately SPEAR HQ has a supply line so I'm topped up. I have enough to last at least a week. As long as we don't get stranded somewhere, I should be good.

Keeper walked along side Veep, picking up a tray and loading it high with meats and anything sweet. Hrah. She has her indiscresions, but I have faith in her overstated technical talent. He followed, sitting across from veep letting the tray hit the table with a metallic thud. The masked one watched the felness sprinkle what he assumed to be some form of nutrient additive.

Are you sure? I could always bump your 'nutritional supplements' with combat stimulants... the Gennari joked as he removed his gloves which slipped out from his vambraces, revealing the long and slender alabaster hands. He spoke then, in a cold methodical tone, It was a requirement for me, to be eligible for this squad, to have a basic understanding of known coalition species anatomy, behaviour, and biological requirements. He said pulling the black hood off from the metal helm that gaurded his skull and neck. Then deftly his hand cupped the anguished gennari mask. Their was a click and hiss, a slight eroma of rot that quickly disipated at the mask was set on the table.

I assume you met similar requirements? The ghostly creature grinned with his sharpened teeth, two of which on his bottom jaw having an opalescent refraction. It had sharp, scar riven, gaunt features; a jutting chin, high cheek bones, snow white curls that made up a devilish goatee and those predatory yellow eyes that regarded both Veep and the food in front of it.

I mean, sure. We all did, but it was a lot of information to take in and I have trouble recalling it all. I just wanted to clarify, just in case. No offense intended.
Despite his slip up with that rash assumption, Veep felt better. Socialising was just what he needed. He was still worried about what would happen, but having someone to engage with, in a non argumentative way, provided just the kind of distraction he had needed. Going into battle after just wallowing would've been a bad move. Veep felt grateful towards Keeper, as they sat eating together.

[FalloutJack]

Gunships and ground forces being the height of what they expected put the Dranfel pair a bit more at ease. While there were things in the Totality that the two had been menaced by in the past, gunships were something more of a harrassment. Difficult to deal with if you were ill-equipped, but as they would be using suits, Kerris was looking forward to shooting them down. Veep was still apparently going to check on the MAS Suits, despite the elf's disagreement. How did the human phrase go? 'Measure twice, cut once'? Something like that. In any case, Silver seemed receptive to her thoughts on camouflaging the mirror on the other planet and experditing their arrival at the site in Egypt, as Maxon suggested. He'd no doubt communicate that ahead of them when he had a moment to spare after the meeting. Kerris had to snort about the Horned Bastard's comment regarding Egypt's lack of membership to the Coalition.

"It was unwise of them, of all people, to not join in. I would wager they are reconsidering their position now."

"I'll second that notion."

After all, it's not as though the thought of Egypt getting invaded through a gateway hadn't crossed their minds... In any case, the most pertinent matters to question seemed to be covered, so the lot of them were dismissed, leaving them to their own devices.

"If you're going to eat, pack more water, just in case we become waylaid in the desert."

"I just came from a desert. I don't plan to spend more time in one just standing around. What will you do, then?"

"Prepare my launcher, then some exercises. Join me?"

"Later, perhaps."

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

So, the lady Dranfel would enter the kitchen area, hearing Veep and the Keeper converse. The latter of the two was jocular, as per usual, while feline was probably still not in the best of moods. She listened in as they went at it, preparing herself some choice bits of meat to feast upon, and something to dry into extra jerky for her and her brother later. When the conversation had reached a completion point, Kerris called over.

"You know, Veep, you and I should go on an elimination run, once we are there, to thin the Totality numbers before they can reach our position."

She took her plate of food and sat nearby, her tail making certain to tuck under her seat, lest it be trod upon by those with careless feet.

"The planet is lush and full of cover. We could take down many in our wake, even set traps."

Kerris let that thought process for a moment as she dug into her meal some. However, as she did, a thought crossed her mind, and she raised one of her fingers for a moment before swallowing.

"A point of order, though, regarding your skills... About how good a mechanic are you? Perhaps more skillful than I? There could be a use for that off-mission, if you're interested."

Oh, what fresh new hell did the dragon lady have in mind for him?

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Maxon didn't have any trouble finding his own weapons already stowed. He just had to make sure the rocket launcher was ready and able for combat ahead of time, since he could realistically only take it OR the Micro-Missle Launcher OR some other heavy weapon that was provided. Once done, he looked over at the walls of the cargo plane. It is a matter of fact that such craft had sections along the inside that reinforce the stability of the fuselage, and that they had gaps in them that could serve as handholds. The reason this was important would become apparent, but he noticed Silverwind nearby as he went for one. The fox/canine couldn't help but notice him. The big Dranfel's footfalls weren't exactly quite.

"Ah, Silver. I do have a question of you, if you have the moment."

Gripping the 'handholds' now, Maxon was using them as sort of a ladder, taking care to hook the talons of his feet in as well, traversing his way up. He would step when he was in the prime position to do some pull-ups overhead, and proceeded to do so.

"I was wondering if you knew this... The Totality, of course, occupies our planets and uses our resources, but has command ever located a world they might care about, like a homeworld, a Totallus Unus, if you will?"

[Cozure]

Veep was very surprised by Kerris' request.

I mean, sure. If Captain Silverwind approves then I'm in. A surprise strike from the shadows could prove effective as a small hit and run.

Veep also secretly knew this was a chance to test himself in live combat without the whole squad seeing if he did melt down. He's just have to hope he could rely on Kerris' discretion and support if the worst happened.

As for the mechanic question, I did fairly well in the MAS mechanical studies. I don't think I'm the best on the squad. But if you need help at all I'm willing to give it a try. Maybe I'm better than I'm giving myself credit for. Self doubt you know.

The Dranfel did a slow and approving nod as he spoke, pleased that Veep was on board with the idea of a stealth maneuver. It would serve them well, if Silverwind approved. As to the other matter, Kerris tilted her head slightly, saying...

A chance to show your abilities, then. This is not for MAS Suits, however. I was more referring to the sport of ground racing, a hobby I've acquired. I've partaken in open events that will allow anyone to join, but if I were to have someone capable of maintaining a vehicle, we could compete in the regular circuits.

In other words, she was suggesting that he join her on a more recreational activity, if he was at all interested.

Veep's eyes widened with even more surprise. He had been so focused on the mission, and his own torment, that he gave absolutely no thought to recreational activities.

That.... sounds interesting. Once we have the free time, it would be nice to have fun again. Whether I'm any good at it is another question, but worth trying I would say. Veep smiled. The first time in a while. Amazing how quickly things could change with the right people around.