Sinners of Tyre Act 1 Chapter 7
Going
back outside, stepping down the steps back onto the forum, Sch'Lvya
finally felt like she can freely breathe again. Being constantly
surrounded by the most important individuals in the Imperium has left
her feeling overwhelmed. Now slowly, the notion of what is happening
is hitting her, having been personally selected to perform a top
secret mission that’s crucial for the well being of the state. She
felt extreme pride, however she couldn’t shake off the idea that in
this case, it's the loyalty that’s more important to her superiors
than personal accolades and skills. Nevertheless, she put her mind to
fulfill the duty that has been bestowed upon her. Coming out of the
Imperial Palace Complex, she noticed that her compatriots have left,
probably returned to the vehicle or just like her, answered to their
superiors.
Suddenly, she felt soft ringing in her temples, with „Incoming Call” appearing in her eyes. Confused at first, she thought that this must be one of the functions of the implants she’s been outfitted with. Slowly she raised her hand and pressed her right temple, answering the call.
- Hello? Who is this? – She asked.
- Greetings, Miss Sch'Lvya. – A deep, raspy voice responded to her. – My employees refer to me as Mr. Rose.
- What do you want, how did you even managed to call me?
- Let’s say, I have my ways. – He said mysteriously. – Having gotten past the formalities, I’d love to offer the Hero of Qar’Vaaria a certain proposition. It’s concerning your current mission on Luna.
- How do you... why should I even trust you, I don’t know you.
- Have you ever wondered who gave your fleet admirals the Intel about Draghodii armadas splitting? Who was the „trusted source” that allowed your Imperium to win the Battle of Sol?
Sch’Lvya stayed quiet for a moment, considering her options, and how to proceed with the enigmatic gentleman. She indeed wondered who that could be, but it was never a good time to put it under full consideration.
- If that’s even true. – she said after a while. – What business did you have in interfering in the war?
- Let’s say, I’ve enjoyed liberty of business under your government, that I would lose had you failed, Draghodii are our mutual adversaries.
- Fine, what do you want of me? – she sighed and agreed to his proposition.
- I’d like you to head to the underbelly of the Bas'Ilean ecumenopolis, sector X87, an establishment called „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”, there you’ll find out the details.
- You better not be playing with me. – She hissed.
- I assure you, this cooperation will ensure mutual benefits.
Mr. Rose has disconnected from the call, leaving Sch’Lvya to ponder about this entire exchange. It was something she hasn’t expected, but curiosity seemed to take over common sense. She was keen on finding out what this mysterious man wants from her. Having strolled through the plaza, she picked up a familiar scent, the sweet and flowery smell of Rosa Azura. She recognised it from earlier, and just as she expected, she saw Ta’Sha leaning against a railing overlooking the sea, smoking one of her cigarettes.
- There you are. – She said, still facing the other way. – I was starting to think that you got lost.
- I was fortunate enough to find my way. – She approached her and leaned against the railing as well.
- I haven’t had a chance to properly thank you for saving me. – A puff of bluish smoke left her maw, after which she shook off the ash from the cigarette and turned to face Sch’Lvya.
- Don’t mention it. – The gray scaled serpent waved her hand down.
- I want to know, why would you risk so much, just to save me. – She said, while stubbing the butt of her cigarette against the railing. – You put a lot on the line back there.
- I don’t leave my people behind. – Sch’Lvya said after a short moment, crossing her arms. – I never did.
- You say that, but...– she turned to face her. - It's not true is it?
- I... – Sch’Lvya was surprised, taken aback by this remark.
- I won’t judge you, I’ve seen enough shit in my life. – She chucked the butt of the cigarette over the railing. - Something regarding your clan perhaps?
- You been sniffing through my personal files? – She sighed, being reminded of her home again. - Let’s say both me and them said words we shouldn’t, before I left.
- Did you try to prove something? Show you aren't just another blue collar from the frontier? - Ta'Sha flickered her tounge.
- I guess there's no use in beating around the bush, you probably know more about me than I do. - Sch'Lvya chuckled, somewhat evasively.- At the time I guess my belief in the Imperium was a bit... blinding.
- Hmm... quite unpopular opinion. - She raised eyebrows and smirked. - I wonder what the Archivarium officer that ran the recruitment mission on Bas'Aqash those few years back would say to that.
- I never turned my back on the Imperium, even though my clan tried to pretend there is no war going on at all. - Sch'Lvya crossed her arms. - And Imperium hasn't turned it's back on me.
- Doubtful that project Tha'Natos would be ran on someone the Archivarium deemed... disloyal.
- You seem very well versed in the situation.
- I was called in to recover the Councillor and whatever was worked on considering Project Tha'Natos, don’t tell me you wouldn’t be curious, especially since VIPER agents have Class 1 clearence to all archives. – Ta’Sha said, while looking back to her compatriot.
- You got a point. – She chuckled. - Anything you can tell me about it?
- I'm sure Councillor Teq'Nyq would be more than happy to indulge your curiosity, maybe run a few tests on you too. – She shook her head. – It was a black op that only a very few officials knew about. Project that aimed to preserve worthy individuals to extend their service, you were the first and only one.
- Only one? How come?
- Labcoat's original plan was to perform conciousness transfers to synthetic bodies, to preserve the will and mind of the individuals, but with the war and then the Tekh'Let, the project was put on hold. In your case, Empress herself demanded you be preserved, so your brain was removed from the old body, and inserted into a new one. One that's superior in almost every way. About the why's and how's you'd need to speak with the Councillor.
Sch'Lvya took a deep breath, processing it all. A prototype, an all-in bet made by the Empress. With a sigh, she continued on, leaving the questions for when she meets Councillor Teq'Nyq again.
- What's your story though? How’d you come to be a VIPER?
- I’d rather not talk about it here. – Ta’Sha cut the topic short.
- Consider the topic dropped. – Sch’Lvya said, respectfully, yet with her curiosity unquenched.
- Thanks. – A small smile painted across the white scaled muzzle of Ta’Sha. - Later.
- You know where the guys are? – She said with a flicker of her tounge.
- Aq’Saal is at the Archivarium, while Na’Rev should be somewhere around here. – She turned around. – That guy is something else.
- Indeed, he is. – Sch’Lvya chuckled. – You’ll learn to like him with time.
Ta’Sha sighed, taking a few steps away from the railing.
- Maybe. – She said with her back towards Sch’Lvya. – Maybe not.
- You should at least give him a chance. – She crossed her arms.
- Fine, I guess I owe you that much. – Ta’Sha shook her head. – Come on, let’s get back to the garage.
Sch’Lvya nodded, then followed the Major through the plaza back to the elevator. Approaching it, the two saw none other than Na’Rev sitting on the stairs.
- There you are, ladies. – He got up, stretching and cracking his knuckles. – Ready to head back to the anchor station?
- I need to see something done before we depart. – Sch’Lvya said.
- I’d argue that we don’t have time for this, but you’re the Commander. – Ta’Sha shook her head. – Where are we headed?
- X87, as far as I know it’s not too far from the anchor station.
- X87 is a human sector, are you sure you need to go there? – Na’Rev interjected. – I been there once, it’s not the prettiest place on this planet.
- I’m sure. – She nodded, as the three entered the elevator. – As you may know, we’re going to the S’Sol system, a certain human has offered me a deal, if I come by.
- Sounds sketchy. – Ta’Sha pressed the garage level on the holographic display.
- I know, I’m not fully happy about it either. – Sch’Lvya sighed. – But it would seem the human source I’m heading to meet, was the same that provided the intel on Draghodii armadas back during the war.
- That’d be interesting Indeed. – Na’Rev nodded. – If it’s true.
- Well, that’s what I intend on finding out. – Sch’Lvya stepped out of the elevator once it arrived on desired level.
- I’m right behind you, Schee. – Marine followed her closely. – And I’m sure Ma’am Major won’t mind a detour.
- Seems like a lead worth a check. – Ta’Sha led the way towards their vehicle. – I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt, Commander.
- Is Aq’Saal joining us? – Sch’Lvya asked.
- As far as I know Mr. Librarian is busy in the Archivarium, and he’ll join us in the spaceport.
Having taken seats in the vehicle again, Ta’Sha drove away, and as she approached the exit the car turned on its thrusters and took off the ground, heading back to the ecumenopolis. On the way there, Sch’Lvya was thinking about how humans got tied up in all this. It was only a few decades ago that Bas’Ilean scientists sent to the S’Sol system to investigate a planet with a very sudden spike in radiation discovered a sentient mammal species at verge of spaceflight age. However their advances were curbed by a thermonuclear exchange that led to an ecosystem collapse. Many humans left their planet once Bas’Ileans have made contact, allowing them to join as one of the client species. Nowadays, humanity is split into two groups, those who remained on earth, trying to make ends meet, and those who live in the Imperium, whose main exploits are smuggling, black market trade of rose-derived drugs, aswell as mercenary and servitude contracts. Humans definitely are the wildcard of the Imperium, filling out any niche open in mere years.
- So, once we land in X87. – Na’Rev started. – What’s your plan, Commander?
- The meeting is meant to take place in a den called „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”. – Sch’Lvya spoke to her companions. – I’ll go in alone, to not raise more attention than needed.
- Good idea, a Bas’Ilean in X87 will already be a big deal. – He nodded. – We’ll stay by the car if you need us, just be careful in there.
- You said you been in X87, Na’Rev, anything I should know?
- It’s dirty, full of humans, and with that comes a lot of shady dealings, however there isn’t a better place to get Rosa Aurea or Rosa Nera, if you fancy that sort of thing.
- That’s the strong stuff, nothing on my Rosa Verda. – Ta’Sha added.
- Isn’t that stuff illegal? – Sch’Lvya tilted her head.
- Ofcourse it is, but who said humans play by the rules? – Na’Rev chuckled. – Also, you might find the air is a bit different there, climate control in X87 has a slightly different atmosphere than normal, to fit the human needs. The difference isn’t significant, but it’s noticable.
Passing by the sea spires and harbours, the three found themselves back in the ecumenopolis frame. As busy as always, Ta’Sha piloted the flying car through the traffic into less congested airways, towards sectors X80-89, where humans had their space on the Bas’Ilean homeworld. Here in the depths of the ecumenopolis, sunlight never shows, a far cry from the celestial districts that crowned the planet. The constant night-like darkness was broken by neon lights scattered everywhere, advertising various establishments and products. Ta’Sha set the car down and proceeded to drive closer to the destination, as in these depths, there are only roads, no airways available. Through the windows Sch’Lvya could see dark alleys filled with trash and poverty stricken humans, aswell as other species who found themselves here not out of choice, but because of not having another place to go.
- Pull over somewhere here, we’re almost there. – Na’Rev pointed his finger at the side of the road.
Ta’Sha parked a fair bit away from other vehicles, which weren’t anywhere near as new as theirs, another symbol of them being quite out of place here.
- Well Schee, you ready for this? – he added.
- I’m just going there to talk, nothing more, I’ll be out in a couple of minutes. – She nodded in response without hesitation.
- We’ll call you out on radio if you’ll be taking too long. – Ta’Sha took out a cigarette. – We still have to get to the anchor station.
- No fear folks. – She opened the door and stepped out onto chilly and wet concrete.
Sch’Lvya took a deep breath of the heavy air, clearly the atmosphere here was artificial, controlled by massive wind generators in the structural supports of the ecumenopolis to maintain appropriate air composition for the human residents of this residential sector. As her companions mentioned, the air that humans breathe was different, having less oxygen in it however it wasn't toxic, only forcing her to breathe deeper than normal. She has never been this deep in the artificial casing of the homeworld. It looked, felt and smelt almost like an alien world entirely. Tight alleys leading to more tight alleys, littered and poorly maintained, only sometimes separated by small one lane roads, illuminated by colourful neon lights which mended into a collage of shades. Her auto translator chip could translate most, but not all of the neons, as some were in languages never translated into Bas’Ilean dialects. Soon an echoing sound of music started to grow louder as she got through another alley and reached a different street. It was a quite decrepid and rusting area, built centuries ago out of steel beams and prefabs. Now apartment buildings, stores and all service establishments are crawling with people who look for an opportunity to make it big away from home. Either be it legally or not, the people living here were determined and in high spirits, despite living in overcrowded sections of the ecumenopolis with several condignations above them. Soon, she found what she was looking for, the bustling bar, lively tavern or disgusting cesspit, however one would wish to describe a place like this. Incorporated into the line of buildings along the street stood the brightly illuminated „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”, named after one of the cosmonauts sent into space before Terra succumbed into Kessler Syndrome and subsequent internal conflicts. She sighed and looked down a set of littered stairs, leading down from the street level to the establishment, while rubbing the back of her hood. „What’s the worst that could happen?” – she asked herself while leaning her head down and descending into the loud, dark cellar. Having walked down the stairs, she arrived before a double door, which after a deep breath she confidently pushed open. Immediately, her senses were dazed by very loud electronic music, smoke and bright, colourful lights.
- Are you lost? – she heard a deep, burly voice coming from beside the door.
- I believe I’m not. – she responded, locating the figure.
It was a tall and muscular human, with a thick, black beard on his face that obscured his age. A black tank top he was wearing didn't hide the fact that he could probably throw Sch'Lvya back on the street. He approached her and barred her from entrance with his bulky frame.
- I haven’t seen you here before, so I’ll spell it out for you, humans only. – he grumbled. – Now leave before I lose my patience.
- I’ve been asked to come here by Mr. Rose, so I’d ask you to step aside.
- Likely story. – He chuckled. – You have no authority here, gjarpër. Scram.
Sch’Lvya raised her eyebrows in surprise at the audacity of this human shoing her away. However, in a quick moment, she noticed the bouncer take his eyes off of her. He reached into a pocket in his khaki cargo pants. In a spur of a moment, she threw a quick right hook, right at his face. The bouncer dazed, fell to the floor with a loud thud, unnoticed by others due to loud music.
- Top notch customer service. – she hissed, shaking her hand after the successful strike.
She stepped over the bouncer, and made her way inside. The music, now almost deafening, was sending vibrations throughout her entire body. You can say a lot about humans, but they have a good taste in music, she thought to herself while walking through a halway filled with artificial smoke. Walking away from the dance floor downstairs, she found herself in front of a pretty spacious bar where music wasn’t as deafening. Several more or less dirty humans sat on the stools in front of it, drinking what looked like alcohol, she wasn’t quite sure if the stuff was genuine. Nearby, there were several pool tables, with some humans and Vulpesians playing at them. The bartender, a middle aged blonde man with a big scar on his face, stood behind the counter, wearing a crumbled, white buttoned up shirt, he was busy filling beer mugs and mixing drinks for thirsty partygoers. While most humans were too drunk or drugged to notice Sch’Lvya, he did take note of the unlikely guest.
- A snake comes into a bar. – He said, in a joking manner with a thick accent. – But will she throw a hissy fit?
- I hope I won’t have to. – She stood in front of the counter, crossing her arms. – I’m not looking for problems.
- Should’ve stayed in the celestial district if that’s true. – He shook his head, chuckling. – A Bas’Ilean here is either a cop, rosehead or an idiot. So which are you?
- Neither. – She hissed. – I’ve been asked to come here by Mr.Rose.
The bartender squinted his eyes and raised an eyebrow.
- All I hope for is that you’ll be more helpful than the stupid gorilla from the entrance. – she continued.
- I’m sure Sheridan will help you out. – He signaled by moving his head to the side.
Suddenly, Sch’Lvya was hit in the back with a baseball bat, sending her down to the floor. The bearded bouncer from the entrance wasn’t happy. Serpent dodged a second strike by using her tail to hit the assaultants legs, making him trip, giving her a second to get up. Being unarmed, she quickly looked for an improvised weapon, which came in form of a bar stool. As the two made their attacks, the bat and the stool clashed together, with both sending wooden splinters around the bar. Soon the attendees of the bar took attention at the fight, and started to whistle and chant the humans name.
- I’ve warned you, gjarpër. – he threw away the cracked baseball bat and put up his fists. – Now I’ll kick your scaly ass.
- I only want to speak with Mr.Rose. – she put her scaled fists up in response. – It doesn’t have to end like this.
He didn’t listen, and threw first, powerful strike, which thanks to her agility, she dodged and in response, hit the side of his torso. Trying to take the opportunity, Sch’Lvya threw another hook at his face, but her attack was caught in his hands. Human used this to pull her close and hit her torso several times in quick succession. With her dazed by the quick volley of attacks, he grabbed her and threw the serpent across the room, making her hit a pool table. She got up, and took hold of a pool cue, which in a quick attack, she cracked in half on the man’s head, dazing him. To return the favour, she picked him up, and threw him at the bar, with the burly man smashing against the alcohol bottles set up on shelves on the back wall. The crowd formed a tight circle around the fight area, they began as avid supporters of the bouncer, but the ferocious resistance of Sch’Lvya bought some cheers from the non-human watchers. The bouncer emerged from behind the counter with a cut brow, his face covered in blood, in fury he grabbed a broken glass bottle and jumped over the counter. Suddenly however, a young woman jumped out of the crowd and stood between the two fighters, stopping the brawl.
- Oh come on, Justice! – The bartender peeked from behind the counter. – It was beginning to be interesting.
- Kurt, you perfectly knew she was coming. You got the memo. – The woman sighed and shook her head. – Xherdan, please, put that down.
The bouncer mumbled something in his language, then smashed the bottle on the ground and walked away.
- Now, for our guest. – She turned to Sch’Lvya and looked up to her, and reached her hand forward. – My name’s Justyna, local Threeriver liason.
Serpent looked down into the wide opened green eyes of the courteous human, she was certainly way more welcoming than her companions. She was wearing a neat and clean, dark maroon uniform, with her long, brown hair knit tightly into a braid.
- Sch’Lvya, a VIPER. – with a bit of hesitation, she reached out her hand the same way, not knowing human customs. – You treat all your guests like this?
- Not quite, I deeply apologise. We rarely have such esteemed guests, you might’ve spooked a few people. – She took hold of Sch’Lvya's scaled hand and shook it, then gave an angry side eye to the bartender. – Kurt, take her to the back and try to avoid any more diplomatic incidents, while I check up on Xherdan.
- You got it Ma’am. – He exclaimed.
With some suspicion, Sch’Lvya walked towards the bar again, carefully stepping over and around broken glass pieces.
- You’re certainly a fun bunch. – She said to the bartender while following him behind the counter, and to the back room.
- Next time, you gotta tell me when you will fight Sheridan, tickets to that would sell like hot buns!
Serpent crossed her arms and looked down to the man.
- What? This was the best entertainment this shithole had for weeks, you got a spark, girl. – He let out a hearty laugh. – Name’s Kurt Volker, I’m the owner of this little piece of terra.
- Sch’Lvya. – she said, rolling her eyes. – Apologies for the mess.
- Don’t mention it, Scylla. I keep the good stuff in the back anyway. – He beckoned her to a room with a table and chairs. – Right here.
As the two entered, a hologram of an older man in a very expensive suit, smoking a cigar through his thick, gray moustache, appeared sitting on one of the chairs.
- Mr Rose I presume? – Sch’Lvya asked.
- Correct, Miss Sch’Lvya, please take a seat. – He signaled to a chair opposite his. – And Volker, fix her a drink would you.
- Ofcourse, sir. – He said with no hesitation.
She limped towards one of the chairs and sat down on it, letting out a sigh. The bartender set a glass of whisky in front of her, she nodded in thanks before Volker left the room.
- You’re certainly running operations with a quirky team. – she picked up the glass and moved it around, before taking a sip.
- Apologies for the commotion, Commander. – he shook ash from his cigar. – Its mainly Volker, he’s quite eccentric, but most of all loyal. I’d hate to know what a mess this would be had we not have a Threeriver liason stationed here.
- That’s good to hear. – She nodded. – Now, what is it all about, why did you ask me to come here?
- There is a certain... opportunity, and a lead on your investigation. – He pressed a button on his chair, which made a hologram of Sol system appear in the middle of the table. – I know you’ve been tasked with investigating operations of the Crown Prince.
- Go on. – She leaned back in her chair.
- The Crown Prince has quite close ties with a Vulpesian industrial oligarch, and the two of them recently took notice of a certain vessel that’s about to be grounded on Terra. – Map zoomed into the orbit of the planet. – The derelict flagship of the Draghodii fleet.
- Sounds interesting, certainly a lead I could follow. – she nodded.
- That’s not all. There is also a Mykoneon prison ark in orbit of Venus, with a certain... person on board.
- Who would that be? And how do they tie in all this? – She leaned forward.
- They are currently hosts of none other than the Draghan herself.
Sch’Lvya opened her eyes very wide in shock. Draghan of the Hierarchate is the highest military rank of the Draghodii, marked by the Great Drake itself to lead the armadas to war.
- How... how did the Mykoneon get their hands on the Draghan?
- Battle of Sol, or Miracle, how your propaganda calls it. A boarding party jumped the battered flagship and took it over, that's where Volker got his scar, this success is indirectly your doing. – He smoked his cigar and shook off the ash. – The flagship might have areas accessible only to it’s Commander so Crown Prince’s agents might take interest in the prison ark and its most renowned guest.
- And you want me to break her out? Talk her into cooperation? – Her face shown a note of confusion.
- Commander, Draghodii might be thick headed and stubborn as all hell, but they aren’t as dumb as your government describes then as. I’m sure you can talk her into helping you.
- What of the Mykoneon then? What will they say to me snatching their best prisoner?
- With how the salamanders treat your people, especially you, a war hero that allowed them to get the Draghan in the first place. - He ran his fingers along his moustache. - I wouldn't worry about it, I’ll take care of the formalities once you get there.
- Fine. – she nodded. – But what do you want in return?
- I want you to stop the Tekh’Let. I stand to gain a lot from maintaining the current status quo, as simple as that. – He raised a glass of his own. – Do we have a deal, Commander?
Sch’Lvya squinted her eyes and flickered her tounge. She also stood to gain from having a powerful, if quite mysterious and enigmatic ally.
- That we do. – She raised her glass too.
- Wonderful. – a wide smile shown itself from under Mr. Rose’s moustache, before both took a sip from their drinks.
Suddenly, she felt soft ringing in her temples, with „Incoming Call” appearing in her eyes. Confused at first, she thought that this must be one of the functions of the implants she’s been outfitted with. Slowly she raised her hand and pressed her right temple, answering the call.
- Hello? Who is this? – She asked.
- Greetings, Miss Sch'Lvya. – A deep, raspy voice responded to her. – My employees refer to me as Mr. Rose.
- What do you want, how did you even managed to call me?
- Let’s say, I have my ways. – He said mysteriously. – Having gotten past the formalities, I’d love to offer the Hero of Qar’Vaaria a certain proposition. It’s concerning your current mission on Luna.
- How do you... why should I even trust you, I don’t know you.
- Have you ever wondered who gave your fleet admirals the Intel about Draghodii armadas splitting? Who was the „trusted source” that allowed your Imperium to win the Battle of Sol?
Sch’Lvya stayed quiet for a moment, considering her options, and how to proceed with the enigmatic gentleman. She indeed wondered who that could be, but it was never a good time to put it under full consideration.
- If that’s even true. – she said after a while. – What business did you have in interfering in the war?
- Let’s say, I’ve enjoyed liberty of business under your government, that I would lose had you failed, Draghodii are our mutual adversaries.
- Fine, what do you want of me? – she sighed and agreed to his proposition.
- I’d like you to head to the underbelly of the Bas'Ilean ecumenopolis, sector X87, an establishment called „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”, there you’ll find out the details.
- You better not be playing with me. – She hissed.
- I assure you, this cooperation will ensure mutual benefits.
Mr. Rose has disconnected from the call, leaving Sch’Lvya to ponder about this entire exchange. It was something she hasn’t expected, but curiosity seemed to take over common sense. She was keen on finding out what this mysterious man wants from her. Having strolled through the plaza, she picked up a familiar scent, the sweet and flowery smell of Rosa Azura. She recognised it from earlier, and just as she expected, she saw Ta’Sha leaning against a railing overlooking the sea, smoking one of her cigarettes.
- There you are. – She said, still facing the other way. – I was starting to think that you got lost.
- I was fortunate enough to find my way. – She approached her and leaned against the railing as well.
- I haven’t had a chance to properly thank you for saving me. – A puff of bluish smoke left her maw, after which she shook off the ash from the cigarette and turned to face Sch’Lvya.
- Don’t mention it. – The gray scaled serpent waved her hand down.
- I want to know, why would you risk so much, just to save me. – She said, while stubbing the butt of her cigarette against the railing. – You put a lot on the line back there.
- I don’t leave my people behind. – Sch’Lvya said after a short moment, crossing her arms. – I never did.
- You say that, but...– she turned to face her. - It's not true is it?
- I... – Sch’Lvya was surprised, taken aback by this remark.
- I won’t judge you, I’ve seen enough shit in my life. – She chucked the butt of the cigarette over the railing. - Something regarding your clan perhaps?
- You been sniffing through my personal files? – She sighed, being reminded of her home again. - Let’s say both me and them said words we shouldn’t, before I left.
- Did you try to prove something? Show you aren't just another blue collar from the frontier? - Ta'Sha flickered her tounge.
- I guess there's no use in beating around the bush, you probably know more about me than I do. - Sch'Lvya chuckled, somewhat evasively.- At the time I guess my belief in the Imperium was a bit... blinding.
- Hmm... quite unpopular opinion. - She raised eyebrows and smirked. - I wonder what the Archivarium officer that ran the recruitment mission on Bas'Aqash those few years back would say to that.
- I never turned my back on the Imperium, even though my clan tried to pretend there is no war going on at all. - Sch'Lvya crossed her arms. - And Imperium hasn't turned it's back on me.
- Doubtful that project Tha'Natos would be ran on someone the Archivarium deemed... disloyal.
- You seem very well versed in the situation.
- I was called in to recover the Councillor and whatever was worked on considering Project Tha'Natos, don’t tell me you wouldn’t be curious, especially since VIPER agents have Class 1 clearence to all archives. – Ta’Sha said, while looking back to her compatriot.
- You got a point. – She chuckled. - Anything you can tell me about it?
- I'm sure Councillor Teq'Nyq would be more than happy to indulge your curiosity, maybe run a few tests on you too. – She shook her head. – It was a black op that only a very few officials knew about. Project that aimed to preserve worthy individuals to extend their service, you were the first and only one.
- Only one? How come?
- Labcoat's original plan was to perform conciousness transfers to synthetic bodies, to preserve the will and mind of the individuals, but with the war and then the Tekh'Let, the project was put on hold. In your case, Empress herself demanded you be preserved, so your brain was removed from the old body, and inserted into a new one. One that's superior in almost every way. About the why's and how's you'd need to speak with the Councillor.
Sch'Lvya took a deep breath, processing it all. A prototype, an all-in bet made by the Empress. With a sigh, she continued on, leaving the questions for when she meets Councillor Teq'Nyq again.
- What's your story though? How’d you come to be a VIPER?
- I’d rather not talk about it here. – Ta’Sha cut the topic short.
- Consider the topic dropped. – Sch’Lvya said, respectfully, yet with her curiosity unquenched.
- Thanks. – A small smile painted across the white scaled muzzle of Ta’Sha. - Later.
- You know where the guys are? – She said with a flicker of her tounge.
- Aq’Saal is at the Archivarium, while Na’Rev should be somewhere around here. – She turned around. – That guy is something else.
- Indeed, he is. – Sch’Lvya chuckled. – You’ll learn to like him with time.
Ta’Sha sighed, taking a few steps away from the railing.
- Maybe. – She said with her back towards Sch’Lvya. – Maybe not.
- You should at least give him a chance. – She crossed her arms.
- Fine, I guess I owe you that much. – Ta’Sha shook her head. – Come on, let’s get back to the garage.
Sch’Lvya nodded, then followed the Major through the plaza back to the elevator. Approaching it, the two saw none other than Na’Rev sitting on the stairs.
- There you are, ladies. – He got up, stretching and cracking his knuckles. – Ready to head back to the anchor station?
- I need to see something done before we depart. – Sch’Lvya said.
- I’d argue that we don’t have time for this, but you’re the Commander. – Ta’Sha shook her head. – Where are we headed?
- X87, as far as I know it’s not too far from the anchor station.
- X87 is a human sector, are you sure you need to go there? – Na’Rev interjected. – I been there once, it’s not the prettiest place on this planet.
- I’m sure. – She nodded, as the three entered the elevator. – As you may know, we’re going to the S’Sol system, a certain human has offered me a deal, if I come by.
- Sounds sketchy. – Ta’Sha pressed the garage level on the holographic display.
- I know, I’m not fully happy about it either. – Sch’Lvya sighed. – But it would seem the human source I’m heading to meet, was the same that provided the intel on Draghodii armadas back during the war.
- That’d be interesting Indeed. – Na’Rev nodded. – If it’s true.
- Well, that’s what I intend on finding out. – Sch’Lvya stepped out of the elevator once it arrived on desired level.
- I’m right behind you, Schee. – Marine followed her closely. – And I’m sure Ma’am Major won’t mind a detour.
- Seems like a lead worth a check. – Ta’Sha led the way towards their vehicle. – I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt, Commander.
- Is Aq’Saal joining us? – Sch’Lvya asked.
- As far as I know Mr. Librarian is busy in the Archivarium, and he’ll join us in the spaceport.
Having taken seats in the vehicle again, Ta’Sha drove away, and as she approached the exit the car turned on its thrusters and took off the ground, heading back to the ecumenopolis. On the way there, Sch’Lvya was thinking about how humans got tied up in all this. It was only a few decades ago that Bas’Ilean scientists sent to the S’Sol system to investigate a planet with a very sudden spike in radiation discovered a sentient mammal species at verge of spaceflight age. However their advances were curbed by a thermonuclear exchange that led to an ecosystem collapse. Many humans left their planet once Bas’Ileans have made contact, allowing them to join as one of the client species. Nowadays, humanity is split into two groups, those who remained on earth, trying to make ends meet, and those who live in the Imperium, whose main exploits are smuggling, black market trade of rose-derived drugs, aswell as mercenary and servitude contracts. Humans definitely are the wildcard of the Imperium, filling out any niche open in mere years.
- So, once we land in X87. – Na’Rev started. – What’s your plan, Commander?
- The meeting is meant to take place in a den called „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”. – Sch’Lvya spoke to her companions. – I’ll go in alone, to not raise more attention than needed.
- Good idea, a Bas’Ilean in X87 will already be a big deal. – He nodded. – We’ll stay by the car if you need us, just be careful in there.
- You said you been in X87, Na’Rev, anything I should know?
- It’s dirty, full of humans, and with that comes a lot of shady dealings, however there isn’t a better place to get Rosa Aurea or Rosa Nera, if you fancy that sort of thing.
- That’s the strong stuff, nothing on my Rosa Verda. – Ta’Sha added.
- Isn’t that stuff illegal? – Sch’Lvya tilted her head.
- Ofcourse it is, but who said humans play by the rules? – Na’Rev chuckled. – Also, you might find the air is a bit different there, climate control in X87 has a slightly different atmosphere than normal, to fit the human needs. The difference isn’t significant, but it’s noticable.
Passing by the sea spires and harbours, the three found themselves back in the ecumenopolis frame. As busy as always, Ta’Sha piloted the flying car through the traffic into less congested airways, towards sectors X80-89, where humans had their space on the Bas’Ilean homeworld. Here in the depths of the ecumenopolis, sunlight never shows, a far cry from the celestial districts that crowned the planet. The constant night-like darkness was broken by neon lights scattered everywhere, advertising various establishments and products. Ta’Sha set the car down and proceeded to drive closer to the destination, as in these depths, there are only roads, no airways available. Through the windows Sch’Lvya could see dark alleys filled with trash and poverty stricken humans, aswell as other species who found themselves here not out of choice, but because of not having another place to go.
- Pull over somewhere here, we’re almost there. – Na’Rev pointed his finger at the side of the road.
Ta’Sha parked a fair bit away from other vehicles, which weren’t anywhere near as new as theirs, another symbol of them being quite out of place here.
- Well Schee, you ready for this? – he added.
- I’m just going there to talk, nothing more, I’ll be out in a couple of minutes. – She nodded in response without hesitation.
- We’ll call you out on radio if you’ll be taking too long. – Ta’Sha took out a cigarette. – We still have to get to the anchor station.
- No fear folks. – She opened the door and stepped out onto chilly and wet concrete.
Sch’Lvya took a deep breath of the heavy air, clearly the atmosphere here was artificial, controlled by massive wind generators in the structural supports of the ecumenopolis to maintain appropriate air composition for the human residents of this residential sector. As her companions mentioned, the air that humans breathe was different, having less oxygen in it however it wasn't toxic, only forcing her to breathe deeper than normal. She has never been this deep in the artificial casing of the homeworld. It looked, felt and smelt almost like an alien world entirely. Tight alleys leading to more tight alleys, littered and poorly maintained, only sometimes separated by small one lane roads, illuminated by colourful neon lights which mended into a collage of shades. Her auto translator chip could translate most, but not all of the neons, as some were in languages never translated into Bas’Ilean dialects. Soon an echoing sound of music started to grow louder as she got through another alley and reached a different street. It was a quite decrepid and rusting area, built centuries ago out of steel beams and prefabs. Now apartment buildings, stores and all service establishments are crawling with people who look for an opportunity to make it big away from home. Either be it legally or not, the people living here were determined and in high spirits, despite living in overcrowded sections of the ecumenopolis with several condignations above them. Soon, she found what she was looking for, the bustling bar, lively tavern or disgusting cesspit, however one would wish to describe a place like this. Incorporated into the line of buildings along the street stood the brightly illuminated „Hiermaszewski’s Refuge”, named after one of the cosmonauts sent into space before Terra succumbed into Kessler Syndrome and subsequent internal conflicts. She sighed and looked down a set of littered stairs, leading down from the street level to the establishment, while rubbing the back of her hood. „What’s the worst that could happen?” – she asked herself while leaning her head down and descending into the loud, dark cellar. Having walked down the stairs, she arrived before a double door, which after a deep breath she confidently pushed open. Immediately, her senses were dazed by very loud electronic music, smoke and bright, colourful lights.
- Are you lost? – she heard a deep, burly voice coming from beside the door.
- I believe I’m not. – she responded, locating the figure.
It was a tall and muscular human, with a thick, black beard on his face that obscured his age. A black tank top he was wearing didn't hide the fact that he could probably throw Sch'Lvya back on the street. He approached her and barred her from entrance with his bulky frame.
- I haven’t seen you here before, so I’ll spell it out for you, humans only. – he grumbled. – Now leave before I lose my patience.
- I’ve been asked to come here by Mr. Rose, so I’d ask you to step aside.
- Likely story. – He chuckled. – You have no authority here, gjarpër. Scram.
Sch’Lvya raised her eyebrows in surprise at the audacity of this human shoing her away. However, in a quick moment, she noticed the bouncer take his eyes off of her. He reached into a pocket in his khaki cargo pants. In a spur of a moment, she threw a quick right hook, right at his face. The bouncer dazed, fell to the floor with a loud thud, unnoticed by others due to loud music.
- Top notch customer service. – she hissed, shaking her hand after the successful strike.
She stepped over the bouncer, and made her way inside. The music, now almost deafening, was sending vibrations throughout her entire body. You can say a lot about humans, but they have a good taste in music, she thought to herself while walking through a halway filled with artificial smoke. Walking away from the dance floor downstairs, she found herself in front of a pretty spacious bar where music wasn’t as deafening. Several more or less dirty humans sat on the stools in front of it, drinking what looked like alcohol, she wasn’t quite sure if the stuff was genuine. Nearby, there were several pool tables, with some humans and Vulpesians playing at them. The bartender, a middle aged blonde man with a big scar on his face, stood behind the counter, wearing a crumbled, white buttoned up shirt, he was busy filling beer mugs and mixing drinks for thirsty partygoers. While most humans were too drunk or drugged to notice Sch’Lvya, he did take note of the unlikely guest.
- A snake comes into a bar. – He said, in a joking manner with a thick accent. – But will she throw a hissy fit?
- I hope I won’t have to. – She stood in front of the counter, crossing her arms. – I’m not looking for problems.
- Should’ve stayed in the celestial district if that’s true. – He shook his head, chuckling. – A Bas’Ilean here is either a cop, rosehead or an idiot. So which are you?
- Neither. – She hissed. – I’ve been asked to come here by Mr.Rose.
The bartender squinted his eyes and raised an eyebrow.
- All I hope for is that you’ll be more helpful than the stupid gorilla from the entrance. – she continued.
- I’m sure Sheridan will help you out. – He signaled by moving his head to the side.
Suddenly, Sch’Lvya was hit in the back with a baseball bat, sending her down to the floor. The bearded bouncer from the entrance wasn’t happy. Serpent dodged a second strike by using her tail to hit the assaultants legs, making him trip, giving her a second to get up. Being unarmed, she quickly looked for an improvised weapon, which came in form of a bar stool. As the two made their attacks, the bat and the stool clashed together, with both sending wooden splinters around the bar. Soon the attendees of the bar took attention at the fight, and started to whistle and chant the humans name.
- I’ve warned you, gjarpër. – he threw away the cracked baseball bat and put up his fists. – Now I’ll kick your scaly ass.
- I only want to speak with Mr.Rose. – she put her scaled fists up in response. – It doesn’t have to end like this.
He didn’t listen, and threw first, powerful strike, which thanks to her agility, she dodged and in response, hit the side of his torso. Trying to take the opportunity, Sch’Lvya threw another hook at his face, but her attack was caught in his hands. Human used this to pull her close and hit her torso several times in quick succession. With her dazed by the quick volley of attacks, he grabbed her and threw the serpent across the room, making her hit a pool table. She got up, and took hold of a pool cue, which in a quick attack, she cracked in half on the man’s head, dazing him. To return the favour, she picked him up, and threw him at the bar, with the burly man smashing against the alcohol bottles set up on shelves on the back wall. The crowd formed a tight circle around the fight area, they began as avid supporters of the bouncer, but the ferocious resistance of Sch’Lvya bought some cheers from the non-human watchers. The bouncer emerged from behind the counter with a cut brow, his face covered in blood, in fury he grabbed a broken glass bottle and jumped over the counter. Suddenly however, a young woman jumped out of the crowd and stood between the two fighters, stopping the brawl.
- Oh come on, Justice! – The bartender peeked from behind the counter. – It was beginning to be interesting.
- Kurt, you perfectly knew she was coming. You got the memo. – The woman sighed and shook her head. – Xherdan, please, put that down.
The bouncer mumbled something in his language, then smashed the bottle on the ground and walked away.
- Now, for our guest. – She turned to Sch’Lvya and looked up to her, and reached her hand forward. – My name’s Justyna, local Threeriver liason.
Serpent looked down into the wide opened green eyes of the courteous human, she was certainly way more welcoming than her companions. She was wearing a neat and clean, dark maroon uniform, with her long, brown hair knit tightly into a braid.
- Sch’Lvya, a VIPER. – with a bit of hesitation, she reached out her hand the same way, not knowing human customs. – You treat all your guests like this?
- Not quite, I deeply apologise. We rarely have such esteemed guests, you might’ve spooked a few people. – She took hold of Sch’Lvya's scaled hand and shook it, then gave an angry side eye to the bartender. – Kurt, take her to the back and try to avoid any more diplomatic incidents, while I check up on Xherdan.
- You got it Ma’am. – He exclaimed.
With some suspicion, Sch’Lvya walked towards the bar again, carefully stepping over and around broken glass pieces.
- You’re certainly a fun bunch. – She said to the bartender while following him behind the counter, and to the back room.
- Next time, you gotta tell me when you will fight Sheridan, tickets to that would sell like hot buns!
Serpent crossed her arms and looked down to the man.
- What? This was the best entertainment this shithole had for weeks, you got a spark, girl. – He let out a hearty laugh. – Name’s Kurt Volker, I’m the owner of this little piece of terra.
- Sch’Lvya. – she said, rolling her eyes. – Apologies for the mess.
- Don’t mention it, Scylla. I keep the good stuff in the back anyway. – He beckoned her to a room with a table and chairs. – Right here.
As the two entered, a hologram of an older man in a very expensive suit, smoking a cigar through his thick, gray moustache, appeared sitting on one of the chairs.
- Mr Rose I presume? – Sch’Lvya asked.
- Correct, Miss Sch’Lvya, please take a seat. – He signaled to a chair opposite his. – And Volker, fix her a drink would you.
- Ofcourse, sir. – He said with no hesitation.
She limped towards one of the chairs and sat down on it, letting out a sigh. The bartender set a glass of whisky in front of her, she nodded in thanks before Volker left the room.
- You’re certainly running operations with a quirky team. – she picked up the glass and moved it around, before taking a sip.
- Apologies for the commotion, Commander. – he shook ash from his cigar. – Its mainly Volker, he’s quite eccentric, but most of all loyal. I’d hate to know what a mess this would be had we not have a Threeriver liason stationed here.
- That’s good to hear. – She nodded. – Now, what is it all about, why did you ask me to come here?
- There is a certain... opportunity, and a lead on your investigation. – He pressed a button on his chair, which made a hologram of Sol system appear in the middle of the table. – I know you’ve been tasked with investigating operations of the Crown Prince.
- Go on. – She leaned back in her chair.
- The Crown Prince has quite close ties with a Vulpesian industrial oligarch, and the two of them recently took notice of a certain vessel that’s about to be grounded on Terra. – Map zoomed into the orbit of the planet. – The derelict flagship of the Draghodii fleet.
- Sounds interesting, certainly a lead I could follow. – she nodded.
- That’s not all. There is also a Mykoneon prison ark in orbit of Venus, with a certain... person on board.
- Who would that be? And how do they tie in all this? – She leaned forward.
- They are currently hosts of none other than the Draghan herself.
Sch’Lvya opened her eyes very wide in shock. Draghan of the Hierarchate is the highest military rank of the Draghodii, marked by the Great Drake itself to lead the armadas to war.
- How... how did the Mykoneon get their hands on the Draghan?
- Battle of Sol, or Miracle, how your propaganda calls it. A boarding party jumped the battered flagship and took it over, that's where Volker got his scar, this success is indirectly your doing. – He smoked his cigar and shook off the ash. – The flagship might have areas accessible only to it’s Commander so Crown Prince’s agents might take interest in the prison ark and its most renowned guest.
- And you want me to break her out? Talk her into cooperation? – Her face shown a note of confusion.
- Commander, Draghodii might be thick headed and stubborn as all hell, but they aren’t as dumb as your government describes then as. I’m sure you can talk her into helping you.
- What of the Mykoneon then? What will they say to me snatching their best prisoner?
- With how the salamanders treat your people, especially you, a war hero that allowed them to get the Draghan in the first place. - He ran his fingers along his moustache. - I wouldn't worry about it, I’ll take care of the formalities once you get there.
- Fine. – she nodded. – But what do you want in return?
- I want you to stop the Tekh’Let. I stand to gain a lot from maintaining the current status quo, as simple as that. – He raised a glass of his own. – Do we have a deal, Commander?
Sch’Lvya squinted her eyes and flickered her tounge. She also stood to gain from having a powerful, if quite mysterious and enigmatic ally.
- That we do. – She raised her glass too.
- Wonderful. – a wide smile shown itself from under Mr. Rose’s moustache, before both took a sip from their drinks.
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