Ava Lane
Astolfo Bugatti
Professor Lorenzo
Ava approached Lorenzo with some trepidation once the rest of the team dispersed.
From her initial impression of Professor Lorenzo, he seemed to be someone who would be hard-pressed to change his mind.
She was prepared to argue her case, but ultimately, Ava was not sure how successful she would be.
And if she failed to convince the Professor, that meant that she would be the squad leader of the project for the foreseeable future.
That was not…a pleasant thought. Granted, based on formal credentials alone, Ava could see the reasoning. She was, after all, one of the few–perhaps the only–commissioned officer among the squad members, albeit the lowest rank of 2nd Lieutenant.
However, the fact that she was still only 2nd Lieutenant as a veteran pilot with stellar combat records was also a clear indication that she was not someone generally considered for actual leadership positions.
Of course, as a commissioned officer, on paper she had some degree of authority, but that was more formality than anything, as she was typically placed under a squad of commissioned officers who were all veteran ace pilots. And on such a squad, Ava would probably only take command if about five of the pilots above her in the chain of command died.
Certainly, Ava was capable of coming up with some strategies, mostly the by-the-book conventional strategies that would be familiar to veteran pilots, but that was an entirely different ballpark from being responsible for an entire squad.
“…Permission to speak freely, sir?” Ava finally asked Lorenzo.
The old man smiled as his eye moved over to her. “Permission granted, Corporal Lane,” he answered, and leaned his hand on his walking cane.
“I would like to ask about your decision to appoint me as the squad leader. I am sure that when recruiting me to the program, you have received a dossier of myself, where undoubtedly it was written that ‘Lieutenant Lane is lacking in the initiative necessary for leadership’ or something along those lines, which I know for sure has been a mainstay in my files since enlistment. While yes, admittedly I led Team Mango and we ultimately won the bout, the strategies I employed were basic textbook strategies. Furthermore, it was merely a simulation, in which no matter how realistic it was, there is a vast gap between decisively making a decision in a simulation with the knowledge that ultimately there would be no real consequences for giving bad orders and giving an order in an actual battle where a bad one may end up with real consequences. There is also a matter of my psychological issues that I am sure you were made aware of. So keeping those things in mind…why me? Is there really no one else more suitable in your eyes?”
Lorenzo shook his head slowly, like an understanding father. “Lane, Lane, Lane…I understand your worries. I really do. You were just given a promotion, and you’re unsure if you got what it takes. But believe you me, missy, when I say there is no better example of a pilot to lead this unit to guts and glory.”
He went through more footage, specifically moments of interaction between Mango members. “It’s not simply about tactics. A leader’s gotta be able to connect with the people under them, to give them hope and determination. You have a good head on your shoulders, even if you yourself don’t believe it. You recognize when people are In a bad spot, and guide them to a better place.”
He nodded to himself. “You also have good instincts for how to utilize your fellow pilots’ strengths to the fullest. And even if your tactics are textbook, they are a fine foundation from which Corporal Bugatti can assist with more clever moves. Speaking of, you two should meet up and get to know each other better. An hour of tactics discussion and/or training for the coming week. How does that sound, Corporal Lane?”
…Ava could see that there was no convincing the Professor, just as she feared.
She really did not want to do it.
Previously, because of her stellar combat records, there were times when she was considered to be in command of an operation. Especially after she made it to the rank of a commissioned officer, a rank that she suspected was only given as a formality as an ‘incentive’ to keep her in the Federation’s military—not that they needed to do that, as Ava had no intention of quitting, but she supposed the higher-ups decided not to take chances with the rare individuals designated as [Humanity’s Potential].
In any case, each time she was considered to take command, Ava had always recited the same reasoning she was now reciting to the Professor. It was, after all, an undeniable truth that such a line of ‘poor choice for command’ was a constant in her files. Even her previous commanding officer, Colonel Chapman, who had a very favourable disposition toward her, was of the same mind.
Thus, the only logical conclusion was not to place Ava Lane in the position of command.
Of course, Professor Lorenzo was probably exactly the sort of man who would scoff and reject such conventional logic. That was Ava’s impression of him, and it seemed that she was correct.
There was no escaping this, Ava then realised, feeling a heavy weight settling on her stomach. The Professor had come up with a proverbial ‘hypothesis’ that Ava Lane was the correct leader of Framewerk Project XJ9, and he would only accept the null hypothesis with evidence from an ‘actual test’.
Ava sighed, “In that case…I would like to know more about this project, Framewerk Project XJ9, of which I would lead the squad operatives. I think it is reasonable, no? Given that I would be hard-pressed to lead the squad well without some measure of a more holistic overview of its objective. I’ve already noticed some oddities in the project. First, this project is clearly separate from the Federation’s chain of command, which is unorthodox for a military project to say the least. Second, the members themselves are an eclectic group, but even more than that, the presence of several individuals that have been designated as Humanity’s Potential in one place is also unusual. Aside from myself, I noticed Cadet Sterling and Cadet Liu’un. Third, the fact that you, Professor, are the one in charge of this project. The ‘Father of Modern Framewerk’ would not just head up any random project. Fourth, the fact that despite your apparent distaste for Project Olympus, which Lieutenant Kaname mentioned Minerva originated from, you nevertheless accepted her presence in this project, implying you are willing to compromise for the project’s success. All that to say that this project seems to be something of the utmost importance. What exactly are we doing here?”
The steps of a male, still hobbling pilot could be heard as Bugatti walked towards the two sighing. “Apologies. I got…distracted with fellow pilot’s impressions.” He said. “And it might not be the end of it, but it would be exceedingly impolite to drag it along any longer” Bug would say. “May I speak freely too.”
Lorenzo’s smile widened upon seeing Bug arrive. “Ah, perfect timing, Corporal Bugatti. I just mentioned how you and Corporal Lane should hold a joint session for tactics discussion, or maybe even putting them into practice in training.” He nodded to Bug’s request. “Yes, but hold just a moment, laddie. Corporal Lane just asked a very interesting question. Now, this is classified intelligence of the highest clearance, so I can’t give a full explanation. But you are correct about one thing, lassie: this project is of the utmost importance. Not only for the war, but for the Galactic Federation.” He turned silent for a moment in contemplation, before he continued: “I am impressed you know about that designation, Corporal. Only top brass, or those who have been in action long enough would know about it. I can’t say much, but I can say this: we are on the cusp of a galaxy-changing historical moment. The moment we will realize the true potential for the Framewerk Synchronization System.” He then turned silent, and placed both hands on his walking cane. “That is all I will say on the matter. Now then, Corporal Bugatti, you have permission to speak.”
“So…what’s this about, then? My lovely senior getting cold feet or the fact you are using espers to rewrite the laws of reality to suit the Federation?” Bug would then say. “Because if so, I got a few things to say.”
“It is a mix of both. Though I’ve decided to trust in the Professor’s judgment—“
More that she resigned herself, but that was splitting hairs at this point.
“—For the time being, at least. It’s good that you can join us, Astolfo,” Ava gave Astolfo a nod of acknowledgement at his arrival before turning back to the Professor, “Regarding my knowledge of Humanity’s Potential, I became aware of the designation due to the unique circumstances of my enlistment.”
Since her father opposed her enlistment, that designation was what made the Federation willing to possibly antagonise one of the largest Framewerk manufacturers, after all. She was present during the negotiation between the Federation’s representative and her father, where the topic of Humanity’s Potential came up.
“…But I digress,” she continued, her tone measured, “With all due respect, Professor, I am not asking for a full disclosure, but could we perhaps be informed of the general scope of the activity we will be undertaking? For instance, will our operation consist of combats against Cruxi, or testing experimental technologies in the field, or data gathering, or something else?”
Turning to Astolfo, she added, “It is imperative for the two of us to know of at least this much if we are to come up with proper strategies and training regimen, don’t you agree? We cannot do our job properly if we are not made aware of what is expected of the squad we are leading.”
Given Astolfo’s gift for speeches, Ava hoped that he would pick up on her cues and try to convince the Professor to give more information on the project.
“We can’t do our job properly. Period.” Astolfo would then say, a frown appearing in his mind. Ava was such a beauty and he would love to keep cajoling her, wishing one day he would be skilled enough to entice such a rare and wonderful animal to nuzzle against him. However, in front of the professor…sacrifices had to be made.
“You have a spiritual wound. I am a mass murderer who killed 300 people in a civil war. And the professor is a man who will strike a sun if it insulted him.” Bug would then say bluntly. “ And we are the best hope against everything. I know better than to fight a tide of someone so driven. He will tell us when it suits us. And if we come to know so much to interfere or question the morality of it all, he will destroy us.”
He breathed deep. “I hope whatever sins of nature we might be committing will be worth it in the end.” The corporal said. “And this is why you should not shirk away your post, senior. It’s because literally no one else is better suited.”
His gaze looked at Lorenzo. “Well except for someone with great potential that my brother is hoarding as his pet Ace. He is…running a parallel program too, professor. Word has it that he recruited all three of us, children of the Golden Jackal, to pilot.”
Lorenzo stroked his beard at the news, his expression neutral. “I see. Orlando is quite a lad, I must admit. But of course, you're not going to let yourself fall behind, are you Bugatti? We’ll make a Golden Lion out of you, haha!” He guffawed, and then turned his attention to Ava. “The both of you. Whatever secret technologies your Frames may hold, what data they may gather…That is irrelevant for you to know. All you need to focus on is fighting the Cruxi. And based on my data, I know you two will succeed. You just have to believe in yourself.” He lifted his cane, and pointed it at her with an unsteady tremble. “In fact, that is an order. Believe that you can be a leader. Trust in others, and they will trust in you. Understood?”
“Understood, sir,” Ava replied. Turning to Astolfo, she added, “Thank you for the vote of confidence.”
“It’s nothing. You are after all the most elegant and beautiful pilot of our entire lot, I would say, that can project a dignified aura and be the banner which we rally on.” Bug would cheekily smile before continuing. “It is my opinion that both heroes and demons are needed for this war. You can be our heroine. And I will be a demon. I am, after all, the Lunatic Prince of Yatalia. And besides, I do think there is a good rapport between me and the professor’s way.”
“I…appreciate it. Thank you again,” Ava said with a polite smile.
Though still not completely reassured, both Astolfo's and the Professor’s words had somewhat eased her mind for now.
She, of course, did not miss the light flirting attempt Astolfo made. However...she decided to pretend not to notice.
It was far easier. Far less…messy for Ava to pretend she did not notice such things than to deal with the complicated feelings such interactions would surely bring given her circumstances.
That was how she had dealt with suitors so far for eight years ever since his disappearance.
However, that aside…the Professor might intend to keep tight-lipped until the end, but he seemed to have let something slip. A small, perhaps inconsequential slip, but a slip nonetheless.
`Whatever secret technologies your Frames may hold’…
That was, in essence, an admission that there was some sort of secret within the Framewerk. There had been rumours about how the Framewerks designed by Professor Lorenzo were special. Something…more than machine.
The Professor’s previous statement lent much more credence to the rumour.
Given that he also mentioned how the project aimed to realise the true potential of the Framewerk Synchronisation System…it was likely that the general aim for the project was to further develop whatever secret technology was used in Framewerks to achieve the synchronisations with its pilots. Possibly creating next-generation Framewerks that synchronised even further with the pilots, perhaps?
Well…that was mere speculation for now, Ava supposed. Considering the Professor does not seem to be willing to divulge any further, she probably should cut her losses here, so to speak.
“One last thing, Professor. Regarding Minerva and Project Olympus…I won’t pry on your distaste of them. However, I would appreciate it if you could try not to antagonise her unnecessarily. Given her skills, she would be a vital member of the squad, and so, it is less than ideal if there’s tension between an ace pilot such as herself and the Executive Officer.”
Lorenzo lowered his cane and turned away, making one last check of the papers he had tucked away. However, it seemed he did hear Ava’s last request, as he briefly stopped, facing away from the two. He gripped his cane tight, causing the veins on his wrinkly hand to become more pronounced.
“...Liisa, what's next on my schedule?” He abruptly asked as he hobbled away without giving so much as a reply, the diligent Lilim beside him and listing off activities as the two disappeared into the corridor.
“I guess he must have appreciated the original so much it gives him mixed feelings. I was pondering how the pieces were clicking, now I know how. Someone tried to make a god using a heroine stock. It’s a tall tale, but it seems to make sense.” Bug would reply. “Minerva is a child trapped in an adult’s body with a very skewed sense of priorities. It does not seem to be an accident.” The second in command replied thoughtfully.
“If they were to clone your beloved as a pet project, how would that make you feel, senior?” Bug would reply.
Cloning…? So that was what the Olympus Project was.
If so, then that was certainly a reflection of how dire the situation was in the war against the Cruxi. Even in the current age, cloning had remained a subject of moral debate and remained a controversial topic.
How would she feel if Luke was cloned…
“I—“ she started to answer, before stopping, “…Hold a moment. I was not aware that you know of my background. You know about the true nature of the Olympus Project too… Are they things you discover through your connection as the Prince of the Yatalia Empire?”
“I did not know it. I just inferred it. Body language. Responses. Crumbs of information. You just confirmed it. I do not have solid evidence on it however… but some pieces are fitting. The awkwardness. The legacy. The early ageing in the hair of Minerva. Her obsession. The names Olympus, Minerva…and Athena. Seems much of a coincidence doesn’t it?”
The younger pilot let a wry smile. “Same with you. You put walls and lack drive. You were stripped of the one who spurred you to take decisions.” The prince would pause for a bit. “But every barrier has gaps to a discerning eye.”
“Ah, well…I confirmed your suspicion, did I? I suppose that’s fine. It’s not like it is some sort of secret, I just don’t…broadcast it,” Ava replied with some exasperation before continuing, “As for your question…I don’t know. From what I’ve heard from pilots who served with him, he was an excellent pilot, so seen in that way, cloning him is good in an ‘objective’ utilitarian way, so to speak. That said, on a personal level…of course it does not sit right with me. Even if he would have the same memory as the original…could he be said to be the same individual? Are what makes a person a person merely the physical aspects of their body, such as the memories stored in their brain? Even if one rejects all concepts of the metaphysical consciousness of the soul, I feel like it would be hard for loved ones to simply accept that a cloned individual is the same person as the departed. Of course, assuming that your inference of Project Olympus and the relation of ‘Minerva’s original’ with the professor is correct…these are also probably the sort of epistemological and ontological issues they would grapple with. Certainly a complex issue.”
She sighed, “Definitely something that can be easily resolved. In the case it is true, I suppose the best we can do is hope that it won’t become an issue in the future that would impact the efficacy of our squad.”
“Not that complex of an issue, senior.” Bug would add. “Are twins the same being? People that clone other people
never look upon that. Even if they are close, genetically identical, and synchronize to the point of seeming telepathic they still have differences.” Bug would add. “A clone will diverge even further. Same genetic makeup. Different upbringing. Butterfly effects. So they hamfist it with conditioning. Training. Syringes, playing god. Humans are really getting desperate it seems.”
He looked at Ava. “Just treat her as a hyper perfectionist pouty child trapped in an overachieving body. Like a younger tomboyish sister of sorts.” Bug would then say. “Happiness Sunshine is Happiness Sunshine.”
“In the end…what does it matter where we came from when it comes to face oblivion?” The younger pilot replied. “Sorry for your loss by the way.”
“It was years ago, but I appreciate it,” Ava replied solemnly, seemingly not wanting to continue talking about the subject, as she pivoted to the previous topic.
“In any case, while I agree, objectively speaking, it’s ‘easy’ to simply declare ‘I am who I am and no one else’ in theory, in practice, people deal in subjectivities regarding these things. The human brain is not always rational after all—“
Her own psychological issue, for instance, persisted despite Ava having recognised that such trains of thought were illogical.
“—you see how the Professor reacted earlier. One of the supposed brightest minds humanity has, reduced to petty sentiments that unnecessarily antagonises one of the pilots in the supposed ‘utmost important project for the Federation’. But well…no use talking about this extensively now; we have yet to have solid proof of this cloning hypothesis, after all. And even if it is right, we don’t fully understand Professor Lorenzo’s umbrage with it.”
“I don’t like her either. She thinks the world is all about her success or failure.” Bug would admit. “Sees everyone as just a fool in her path at times. Reminds me of someone I once knew.” He paused. “I believe we should work kinks with more socializing. We need to practice your smile. Must be lovely.”
“I won’t tell you to get along with her…But do try to be professional and not unnecessarily antagonise her.” Ava started saying. She had seen her fair share of pilots disliking each other on a personal level, after all.
In her experience, as long as it does not get to the point of hampering coordination and cooperation on the field, it was best to leave personal conflicts between pilots alone. After all, with how most pilots tend to have strong personalities, an attempt to force them to get along might just backfire.
She then continued, “…That remark about smiling aside…I suppose it is right that now I am appointed squad leader, I should socialise more with the rest of the team. If we want to foster esprit de corps, it would not do for the squad leaders not to be an example of one.”
“Dinner and wine then, twice a month?” Bug would say, a cheeky grin on his face. “...for brainstorming purposes.” The prince would say. “I’ll see to find…suitable classy accomodation.”
“…No wine. That would be counterproductive for brainstorming,” Ava replied curtly, before continuing, “But yes, I suppose we do need to schedule meetings. If that’s all, then if you’ll excuse me, I’d like to rest after that simulation exercise.”
She still had some aches due to the feedback from her framewerk being destroyed. The ‘curse’ of high synchronisation. Though that did make her wonder, what pain feedback would be like if her theory of the Professor developing new generation framewerk with higher synchronisation capability was true. Would the pilot die without a chance of evacuation if their framewerk suffered too much damage?
“Have good day, Corporal Bugatti,” Ava said with a polite smile, before leaving.
“It’s a date, then. See you around, senior.” Bug would quip, before nodding and leaving his way too.
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