Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A light shines and the wind blows as Aurora opens her eyes. Her dull psionics cloud around her as she slowly rises. Gazing around she realises where she appeared, "Really fucking Siberia?!". Before she can yell anymore a scream startles her, "Ah bloody hell, why's it so cold out here...".

A woman steps up, the snow blending into her white Icarus suit, the engines dull and lifeless but the eyes glowing a brilliant pure white. "Ahh Auroura, glad to see you here" the psion nods "likewise, any idea where Avenger is this time?", "Nah best meet up at Point S6, hope the others are there" with another nod they head forward, into the cold.

---()----

A man in a thin cape and metal wings steps from the shadows, a cybernetic arm and leg hum a blue light while his scarred face leaks malice. "As expected, we have appeared nearby one another" mumbles another man, cybernetics covering his body and a gremlin hovering neabry. The man turns, "Mularon my friend its good to see you! Another attempt to beat our high scores ye?" unexpectedly for an onlooker the man is jovile, picking up his top hat and placing it on his head he turns once again to his compatriot "Let me tell you, this time im going to mount a Sectoid skull on my hat, mark my words". Mularon supresses a chuckle before replying "Very well, we shall see, shall we head towards point NA3?" The other laughs along "Yes! Let us meet with our merry band!".

The two walk together, with a spring in one step and a literal spring in the other.

---()----

A women in a cloak and a mask leaps forward, and is stopped by a shotgun to the face, despite her eyes the other can feel her glare as she mutters "Kalasnikov...". The cyborg with red tints running through him and glowing red eyes curls his mouth in a smile, "OgrS gave us both another chance, and Xcom yet one more, but here i could end it for a few years" his eyes glow a darker shade "Just as you'd deserve Ghost of Belgrade, oh Phantom of Sofia, the Lonely one". With a tug he pulls the shotgun out of here face, "Sadly id be punished next time, and frankly i have others id like to meet". Sofia checks her ammunition before responding, "For a vile communist oppressor im surprised others want to meet you". He turns away wordlessly before marching to the meeting zone.

---()----

Machines buzz as the nearby robots activate, sparks of all shapes rebooting. The first one, Bismarck, turns to the crew, "G3 Unit online, requesting status of others", after they reply he repeats to them "Confirmation of X1, J2, G3, F4, S5 and I6. Requesting objective from squad leader, Dusk Caller X1". The others turn to the hulking dark armoured machine as its red eyes scan the nearby surroundings. "Advent patrol detected, plan formulated, remove Advent Soldiers and destroy the Clinic, on success retreat to Zone ID SA9". The machines wordlessly begin their march towards the city centre.

---()----

Bradford enters the command room where the Commander, inside their Avatar resides, deciding on their next course of action. "Hey Commander, just thought id let you know that...", he notices his superiors visor staring into nothing, and decides to get his attention the best way he knows how, "the Aliens continue to make progress on the Avatar Project, of we wamt to slow them down we have to move fast". The commander lets out a small noice, mixed between a laugh and a sigh. The Avatars head faces the central before the Advent voice issues the command, "Central head for the usual spots", noding his superioir heads off while the Commander thinks, he is always thinking after all, despite his wish not to.

---()----

The Hunter enters the lab, its white walls stained in blood and decay, before him sits a man that should be dead, a symbol clearly showing the letters OgrS. "Well now, i expected to find some dead men bere, maybe some data their, but you? No, you'll do". The Hunter grabs the human before him, ready to deliver the Eldars a hell of a gift.

Chapter Text

There are a variety of words that can be used to describe the group before the Commander. Fancy armours decked out in a rainbow of colours lead many to the idea that this is an unprofessional army. They would be correct, on pick up already two incidents involving violence have occurred and the Sparks have brought two live advent soldiers onboard. Disappoint but an improvement to last loops four sectoids.

The soldiers are in squads conversing among themselves, from one tank a man is heard “I can guarantee you, this loop I will manage to develop a weapon to destroy Black sites from the Avenger!” A sigh is heard before the man next to him retorts “Ghoul, such a weapon would require a large concentration of elerium not to mention it will decimate any loot we would gather” “What Deacon over here is tryna say is, where’s the fun in that?! I wanna blow shit up and burn some X-rays to the ground!” On the other end of the table Kalashnikov snickers at the exchange “inside voices Titano, you’ll get your fun in a bit, I heard the usual sewer expedition is happening.” On hearing this the crew goes silent.

“The Commanders making me the squad leader, so I need suggestions for two more members.” He points around the group “We got a purifier, grenadier, hacker, and of course me, the close-range flanker” he explains. “How-bout that psion guy, Argon? I betcha he could make some heads spin” “Alright, Argon it is. One more guy, I’m thinking a spark of some variety.” Deacon replies “Why not Dusk Caller? The Geth I think it was?” With that Kalashnikov nods, “he will fit nicely, I will have this approved by the commander, I shall see you all in four hours exact.” With that, the remaining team members continue their ideal chatter.

—-()——

Among the meeting chambers, the Chosen wait patiently even the Hunter seemingly docile, much to the Warlock's confusion “Tell me, brother, since when have you been so reserved ?” The Hunter's smirk grows before firing back “Cmon now dear brother, you do enough talking for the both of us” the Warlock grimaces nearly immediately but before he can retort the Elders appear before them, their psionics overpowering the room.

As their usual speech passes by, and the punishment dealt they prepare to leave, but not before the Hunter chimes in “I believe I have something with me that may prove not all of us are failures.” The Elder's gaze turns to him, the powerful psionics threatening him to waste their time. Suddenly using the network he pulls up a hologram of his inner sanctum. “Remember those Xcom soldiers? The ones with the metal skin and purple eyes? Always wondered who could do this back as far as 1950?” He pauses for dramatic effect before continuing “Meet the OgrS and on-screen you can see their head honcho, a man who could accelerate the Avatar project at a speed we thought near impossible.”

The Elders grow quiet, even their psionics calm as they mull over this new information. “He does demand we help him with his projects but he offers in return an army of soldiers and a shared hatred of Xcom, sounds like a good deal to me.” As he finishes the Elders speak up “We intended to leave this room dissatisfied with the efforts of our children, but with this discovery you have proven to us that our faith in you is well placed. Give him the necessary tools, grant him access to the network and for the rest of you, capture their commander, bring them to us and to the victor we offer to the world, now go!” With a flare of energy, they are transported back to their strongholds, one happier than the others.

—-()—-

As the ground team lands Kalashnikov gives a run down to the squad on the plan of action “I shall leader the squad with Dusk at my side for support, Ghoul you are to destroy cover of Advent units and Titano target any Captains, Deacon scout with your gremlin while providing covering fire, Argon if a Sectoid shows up mind control it immediately, attempt the same on anyone trying to flank us, understood?” They all nod as they move in through the sewers.

The first pod goes down with no issues, however, the second pod proves more deadly. The Captain takes cover behind a wall while a Trooper attempts to flank Ghoul, a Bio Trooper runs to flank Argon but is interrupted by a hail of bullets from Dusk Callers' machine gun. Kalashnikov fires a slug at the Advent Trooper before his head blows up in a shower of yellow blood, the Captain attempts to retaliate but misses. The Bio Trooper attempts to fire but is forced back into cover as flames lick the air above him. As a grenade blows up the Captain's cover a mechanical groan is heard through the sewers.

“Advent doesn’t field Mecs till a bit later don’t they?” The purifier asks the question on everyone’s mind. Before Kalashnikov can think of an answer a dark blue Mec, equipped with a Cannon and a shoulder-mounted RPG breaks through the wall, a symbol painted on its chest. Kalashnikov orders the troops to scatter as he fires a round at the defenseless Sectoid killing it. The new Mecs lights glare an ominous glow as its eye slit turns to face the squad.

Its first action is to fire its Cannon at Argon, grazing the Psion and forcing him into high cover. Ghoul responds by launching a grenade at the mechanical devil. The remaining Bio Trooper is then shot through the head by Dusk Caller, allowing the Geth to turn its attention to the other machine. Meanwhile, Kalashnikov calls out to Deacon, “Can you hack it?!” A firm shake of a head is the response, “I don’t understand it but this mechs code is far more advanced than the usual Advent” “I can tell why” is the response the team leader gives.

As the Mec fires its RPG at Dusk Caller the Geth stumbles back, its body severely damaged, however before another shot can be fired a strong hit from Kalashnikov sends the beast tumbling down, the mechanical groans signifies its collapse as the last spark reveals its death. As the squad regroups Kalashnikov only says a few words “I hope to God that’s a rouge Mec and not a sign of something worse”.

Chapter Text

The lights flicker as a group of soldiers all meet up in a room on the lower deck. Deacon and Aurora are the first to take a seat, the twins eying each other knowingly, concern covering their faces. Kalashnikov and Belgrade naturally take opposite seats to be the furthest away and keep an eye on one another. Maria moves her cloak as she sits down, her legs and arm having blue energy shining through tubes. Finally, Axsit walks in, his red blades gleaming with energy.

The swordsman speaks first, with clear concern echoing off his words, “We all saw that thing down there, and the marking it carried, right?” Nods flood the room as Kalashnikov chimes in “As the man who was personally leading the mission I can guarantee that it is what we think it is.” Dread fills the room before Deacon speaks up, “Do we know for sure that they are back? This didn't happen during the last reset after all.” “A haven reported soldiers among the Advent wearing an insignia that looked just like it. We must face the facts. The OgrS are somehow alive.”

He stands and grabs his red blade strolling around the room, “They have gifted us all something, to Auroura her overloaded Psionics, to Deacon a near-limitless skillset with machines, to Kalashnikov a body to replace his old one, to Belgrade a body as well, to Maria her limbs where restored and of coarse I was gifted with inhumane reflexes. But did we ever get a choice to be their lab rats?” The room all looks among each other, a clear look of understanding on each face. “They have returned and we must accept the likelihood that their leader has as well, the Avatar project will most likely accelerate to speeds we have not seen.” He turns to face them all, “I will request the commander allows me to lead a squad composed of all present men to the last known facility within Romania, any opposed?” With no replies he walks out the room, leaving the rest to come to terms with the changes in their lives.

—-()——

In the training room Dreadon twirls his pistols as the man next to him, Themrikson reloads. “Ok cowboy I want to make a bet, we both quick draw on the target, closest to the center wins and gets a free question.” Themrikson chuckles “Well I’ll be ringing you dry for intel in no time, on 3 right?” The other Akimbo chuckles before he counts down and the bullets are fired. Despite his helmet, Themrikson knows for a fact the bastard is smirking. “Ok cowboy I’ll go easy on you, first name?” The other reload his pistols “Don’t go soft on the questions now, won’t be fun if we’re asking the easy shit, it’s Eremeal.”

The gun master nods before the next shots are fired. “Ok, tell me ya origins, born and all that. Dreadon mulls it over before replying “Mother was American father was Greek, Mother died during an Advent raid and good old Pa passed after a man shot him square in the head.” The southerner lowers his hat “I apologize for prying, shoulda expected it to end in a way like that” “Don’t apologize they both deserved the death they got, a traitor and a traitor, runs in the blood”. They both go again and Dreadon slams his fist in anger when his shot is just about off. “Aight wanna know what you mean by runs in the blood” Dreadon sighs before checking around him, “What I'm about to tell you does not leave this room alright?” “Swear on my heart” “Good”.

“In a resistance camp, Advent came hard and fast, I tried out gunning but decided to hide in the cellar instead, a mother scurried in with her child. The worst thing then happened” He pauses his face tilting up as he recounts his tale “The mother's child started crying if we were found I knew for a fact we were dead, and that mother couldn’t live in a world without her child, I knew them for months after all” The room goes silent as the world waits for what comes next. “I had two pistols and made it painless, both didn’t notice it” Themrikson's eyes widen before the man continues, “It worked, I survived even as the Advent patrol walked over me, met up with my Pa shortly after, he revealed he called Advent here and that we are going to a better place” Dreadon looked down at his pistols, “I shot him, he reacted fast enough to look surprised but not to save himself.” Themrikson taps his shoulder “While I don’t agree with ya, I sure as hell understand why ya did what ya did, what ya told me will make me think differently of ya.” The man then puts his hat back on “To say anyone on this ship is a saint is a lie anyhow, people here have committed crimes that would make Advent shudder.” They both contemplate in silence before Dreadon offers “To the bar?” A chuckle and a confirmation “Alcohol, the temporary solution I think we both need”

Both men head towards the bar.

Chapter Text

The six soldiers traverse the dark and sinister building, the humming lights being the only sound other than the soldier's steps. Kalashnikovs piercing red eyes drift back and forth while Deacons gremlin scouts ahead. Behind the two Belgrade uneasily watches their flanks, her finger moments away from her trigger. Followed by her is Aurora, her psionics filling the air as the solace attempts to calm the group down. Finally, Maria and Axsit watch behind them, both anticipating a threat of some sort.

With a raise of a hand the group stop, Deacons gremlin returns to his side as its master explains to his teammates the sightings, “Pods line the walls, glass tubes some with things inside and some look to be smashed open”. Kalashnikov readied his shotgun before a guttural roar fills the room.

Suddenly a Berserker smashed through the wall, one arm pulsing a sickly green as it leaks an acidic substance. The team scrambles to cover as the melting beast begins his mad dash towards the nearest person. A shotgun shell to the face sends it stumbling back, but with a defiant roar, it continues again, dodging an Arc blast and resisting the psionics attacks the beast goes for a smash attack on the nearby cyborg. With a decisive roll, he dodged the mighty attack, just as bullets stream from Belgrade's cannon. The beast stumbles yet again but sustained fire combined with the twin bullets leaves it vulnerable to Kalashnikov swinging his shotgun under the mighty beast's jaw and sending a stream of bullets through its skull reducing its brain matter to paste on the wall.

With a huff Belgrade lowers her cannon, “And here I thought we’d have an easy one, nope we get to fight a melting pile of muscle”. Kalashnikov looks forward into the corridor tubes faintly visible throughout the hole in the wall. “We cannot continue, if we run into two of them this squad is finished, we shall head back to the Commander and return another time.” Before the group leaves Axsit does a fake cough before speaking, “Now that I have your attention, while you were fighting that thing I’ve managed to get something from a nearby control room.” The datapad in his hands gleams as the video stuns the group.

—-()——

The Hunter thought watching the Woman work on machines and genetics would be more interesting than hunting the nearest Berserker but so far he has been proven wrong. The silence in the room was near unbearable and he had to make conversation somehow, “So remind me again why you called me here?” The woman drops her tools, her mechanical arms and legs audibly straining to move followed by her turning to the marksman, “You said you wanted a unit to help you track, so I’m making you one. In return How bout you supply me with better machinery? Frankly, I doubt me having to move in slow motion is fun for anyone.” The Hunter twirls a piece of metal in his hands, “I get my unit you get your working limbs” he puts the screw down before turning at the creature in the stasis chamber. “Has it got everything I asked?” The scientist turns to her datapad before relaying its contents, “Long-Range Vision, Plasma mounted Cannon, four legs capable of outrunning a car, and of course, it looks like a wolf.” The Hunter clasps his hand with an excited grin, “How long till I give this sucka ago?” The scientist presses a button before the beast lets loose a small grow. “The upcoming retaliation strike, I’ve got the place scouted for you to drop in with support from my Mec-O6s.” The Hunter grabs his rifle and heads to his ascension pad.

—-()——

Pure takes a quick look over the team for the Havens defense, herself as a sniper followed by Averdon as a swordsman, Argon and Aurora as psions, followed by Bismarck as a Spark, Titano as a purifier and Themrikson as the Gunslinger. As soon as they arrive the crew proceeds to remove the aliens with little to no trouble, as Pure reloads she can’t shake the feeling something is wrong.

Before she could ponder too long a shot is heard and Argon screams in agony, “Come on now, you should always be prepared.” Two Mec-O6s run ahead of the Hunter, a beast scampering into the shadows behind him. The first Mec prepares its RPG but a quick fuse from Aurora causes an explosion blowing the Mecs arm off in the process. As the second Mec approaches, Bismarck opens fire scoring a direct hit on the eye stunning the machine. The Hunter lines up a shot but the sound of a rifle going off and the powerful blast from Pures sniper forces him to take cover and deal with the wound, “That mutt better do what it’s meant to or I’ll have a cripple to shoot.” As the team continues pounding the Mec none notice the canine sneak up behind the resident sniper. Before she can even react the beast pounces its claws digging into her legs while they both fall off the tower and hit the ground.

As the wolf prepares to go in for a second attack a gust of flames forces it back as Titanos chem thrower bursts to life. While the wolf retreats Argon gets his fuse off on the other Mec causing it to explode in its entirety. The last Mec attempts to open fire but a Fireball from Aurora blasts the giant's head clean off. While they regroup the Hunter retreats, “Well for a field test I’d say this has gone rather well, first impressions were awful but I see potential.” The machine groans before replying in a synthetic voice, “Correct. The Leader has multiple upgrade plans for me.” The Hunter blinks before replying, “It talks huh”.

Chapter Text

Four men surround a table, Valgorne being a haunted suit of armor similar to the Warlock revealing a deck of cards, Kar Isstos being a Warlock sitting his staff down by his side. Titano takes the next seat followed by Ghoul. The phantom then speaks up “Alright we all know the rules of Poker, loser cleans the bathroom while the winner gets the bottle of Vodka the two reapers brought it.” Instantly the men light up, eager to win themselves a prize as good as that.

The rounds go evenly with it coming down to a tie between Ghoul and Valgorne. “Cmon Ghoul ya got this!” Kar Isstos lays his cards down “I fold, with such confidence how could I hope to beat you?” Ghoul grins “About that,” as he throws his cards down Valgorne groans “Not a single match, how did we fall for it?” A chuckle from the grenadier followed by Titano's cheer for his comrade lightens the mood.

“Alright, Kar Isstos enjoy the cleaning and Ghoul enjoy getting drunk.” Ghoul grabs the bottle before pulling out four cups “Before we all go, I think we all deserve a nice glass, my offer of appreciation.” The four men cheer and clink their glasses, unity through them.

—-()——

Four girls crowd their table, Aurora's solace dimly visible followed by Belgrade and North. A woman clad in armor with a bird-like mask also sits with the group. North turns to the newcomer and offers a friendly smile “Good to see you Anva,” “Likewise, it is always nice to get a day off.” They drift off to idle chatter before long.

After a while, the conversation turns to romance and other topics, “Say Aurora” the Frost psion begins “You got anyone special? Seeing how powerful you are I’m sure some guy looking at you.” Aurora shakes her head “No, no guys catch my interest.” The other lets a careful hum before Anva replies “No girls either?” This elicits a blush from the psion and a small gasp from North followed by a squeal of excitement.

Belgrade suddenly chimes in “Is that why your constantly checking up on our resident sniper?” Belgrade's inquiry causes Aurora to blush to the point her whole face turns red. She covers her face in her hand wondering how things could get more embarrassing.

The answer happens to be said sniper joining them. Pure takes a seat and pushes a bottle of Vodka towards the group, “My payment ya?” North can barely contain her laughter while Belgrade's mask somehow looks like it’s smiling. Anva speaks up first “Do not worry about them, already a bit tipsy.” Despite the jabs, they don't mention anything to Pure and enjoy their day.

—-()——

Kalashnikov follows Themrikson and Dreadon into the training room. The cowboy sets the targets up while the other two move equipment out of the way. As they finish Dreadon relays the rules, “When the Judge gives the signal the others must turn, pick up their gun and shoot the target, fastest wins. If it’s close enough we compare accuracy.” The men nod and they bring their game.

As the rounds go by Dreadon reads out the score. “Six to me, Seven to Themrikson, and Six to Kalashnikov,” said the man shrugs “I’m just not at my best today.” Themrikson hums before motioning “Anything wrong fella?” The cyborg red eyes glow, “Have I ever told you the history I have with the Ghost of Belgrade?” Themrikson shakes his head Dreadon places three chairs. the cowboy pours three glasses of Vodka before reassuring the man nearby, “Tell us what you want, it won’t leave this room.”

“I used to work for the USSR, under Stalin. I was a part of the Assurance of Balkan Security or ABS for short. I lead a task force to keep control of the Balkans and remove resistance cells. Reporting directly to Stalin I was one of the only men who could face him with confidence in my survivability. I was powerful, yes, but with a small group and the public had no clue we existed, I was always loyal. One day my team betrays me, leads me to a trap and a claymore goes off right in front of me. My body was a mess.” He runs his hands across his metal skin.

“OgrS found me and brought me back from the brink of death, I reported to Stalin and the old team disappeared while I led the new to hunt our biggest problem.” His eyes glow a sinister red before practically spitting out “The Ghost of Belgrade, Phantom of Sofia, a woman causing uprisings to spark in. Bulgaria and Yugoslavia. I spent years hunting her up and till the fall of the Soviet Union, I lost men good men to her,” anger drips from his voice as he speaks, “One day I will kill her, and oh god will I enjoy it.” The cowboy pats the man’s back as the other gunslinger reflects upon something.

—-()——

The Hunter has to admit, he’s starting to like this one. Always some new biomechanical project that he gets to hand to the Elders. The mechanical dog leans against the wall, its whip-like tail seining slowly as its master sits on the desk. “So tell me human, how did you get all this knowledge? Your file is near blank and it’s thanks to your organization I even know you exist.” Said woman's mechanical arms making a groaning sound. Elder, she responds with a frosted groan of her own. “These cybernetics… and to answer your question a lot of time and research, I believe 145 years soon.” The Hunter let’s our a laugh at that one. “You're pulling my leg hear, people don’t live past a hundred that often, especially while they still look 40, well minus the chopped limbs.”

She shakes her head while one of her arms comes back online, “I have seen both world wars, the Cold War, and I plan to live longer”. The Hunter hums before firing back, “So that’s the motivation, immortality? Cause the Eldars beat you to it on the Human front.” She denies this with a shake of her head, “I have immortality, I have died, and been brought back, I don’t feel like telling you why I do what I do.” His smile drops, “You aren’t very fun at times,” “having arms that turn off will do that to you.”

Chapter Text

As the squad lands, everyone takes their place. Kar Isstos sits towards the back as he guides his fellow soldiers. Julian enters the front of the formation while Titano and Ghoul follow closely behind. Valgorne disappears into a flank and Biocore goes to the opposite flank.

“Soldiers here’s the plan, Julian draws out the enemy units, we kill the OgrS newest unit and bring it back for Autopsy, understood?” Julian is quick to retort, “Oh good, I’m the meat shield, we have perfectly good flesh bags here you know.” Ghoul puts a hand to his heart in mock shock while Titano snickers.

However before they can continue they run into a pod, two Stun Lancers and a Melted Berserker stand in their path. As the Lancers break for cover, the Berserker charges straight for the Spark. A shotgun blast goes off as Biocore one hits the Stun Lancer to the left, meanwhile, Ghoul lobs a grenade at the other Lancer on the right.

Julian waits for the Berserker to reach melee range before hitting him with a stunning punch. Kar Isstos fires a Psionic Volt at the Stun Lancer killing it. Finally, Titano keeps his flamethrower on the Berserker till it drops dead. “Mission accomplished eh?” Valgorne speaks through the comms, “Not quite, new unit spotted, and its heading your way.”

As the team heads back into cover the unit vaults over a rock into plain view. Eight mechanics' legs rotate into place as its four large floodlight eyes stare at the opposing squad, a claw protrudes from its back as its arms twirl, one with an Arc thrower-like device and the other with a cannon. The Collector releases a mechanical roar as it scurries towards Titano. “Tin can insight, I’d suggest shooting at it.”

Titano braces for the lightning-fast claw which attempts to grab him, before Ghoul can lob a grenade the Arc Thrower stuns him. Valgorne reveals himself by striking the creature in the back with a well-placed volley of shots. Biocore climbs a nearby ridge as Julian opens fire with his cannon.

The Collectors claw tightly grips Titano before opening a rift behind it. However before it can escape Biocore jumps onto its body and unloads her automatic shotgun into its back, as the machine releases a weak roar a Null Lance finishes the beast.

As Titano is released from the claw Ghoul goes to check on his friend, “Ahh not very user friendly that one is, I’m going to file a complaint.” Ghoul responds with a chuckle as Kar Isstos throws the flare.

—-()——

Silence fills the sky, moments before Pure takes her shot, the searing bullet pierces the target dead center and they collapse. “Gotcha piece of shit.” As she picks herself off the ground a hand is offered to her.

Axsit hoists her up as the two meet up at the pick-up zone. “So you got the device?” Axsit pulls out the USB before setting it down next to them. Pure fills in the silence between them, “We are surprisingly similar, quiet, and effective yet we fight in completely different ranges, what are your opinions on snipers anyhow?”

Axsit nods to her gun, “Like all weapons I see it as an extension of yourself, if you can hit a target from across the city with your rifle, you are worthy of my respect, anyone is if they can prove they’ve mastered their weapon.” Pure hums in response, “That's a nice way to look at it, personally, I think you're pretty cool, also those flashy sword moves make me kind of jealous, to be honest.”

Axsit is quick to reassure his friend, “And I am jealous of your aim, I can’t use a gun to save my life, I’ve put years into my blades just as you have to your gun, we are equal just in different forms.” Pure laughs as she notices the Skyranger approaching.

—-()——

Onboard the Avenger Deacon hands out drinks to the players, Valgorne, Titano, Ghoul, Kalashnikov, Argon, and himself. Kar Isstos takes the role of Banker. “Ok with the rules explained let the game begin.”

As they play their usual idle chatter begins, “You know, Monopoly was originally made as an insult to capitalism.” Argon turns to the communist, “Not a clue if that’s true but I can see the reasoning.” The game quickly leads to Kalashnikov and Argon taking leed.

Soon Titano brings up an idea, “Ya know they say opposites attract, if that’s the case why is the Soviet so good at a capitalist game.” Ghoul is quick to respond, “Why hasn't Kalashnikov asked out Belgrade? They are near opposites at all.” Kalashnikov sends his comrade a death glare that causes the man to be visibly pushed back.

Valgorne wanting to lighten the mood adds, “Speaking of love, how’s it going Argon?” The psion scratches the back of his head, “Like a dead pigeon, nowhere.” Titano replies, “I know Auroras is a bit weird, but I’m sure ya could just ask her.” Kar Isstos then clears his throat, “I’m near 90% certain she’s into women, and a particular Sniper at that if you understand me.”

Titano turns to Deacon, “Your here twin, tell me does she go for the sausage or the ham?” Valgorne gives him a dead stare before replying, “Never refer to it like that again.” Deacon shyly shrugs, “She doesn’t tell me much anymore.”

Kalashnikov rolls the dice, “Besides it won’t matter, you have an eternal cycle to confess in, some fear the march of time, frankly I resent those who can feel it.” Kar Isstos nods in understanding as the table goes quiet, “One day we will all be free, I’m sure of it.” Titano pats his friend on the arm, “I’m glad your optimistic, cheers us all up.”

—-()——

As Kar Isstos stretches he thinks of his past deeds, the number of people hes saved over the centuries of his life, the fall and rise of empires the death of beloved friends and hated enemies, and time loops thrown a spanner in the usual works, but he isn't complaining. The world sometimes moves too fast for his taste, psionics is just now being truly tested and frankly, he feels something coming.

Something is hunting something else and all he knows is that the Elders are prey, the scariest thought is what is their predator.

Chapter Text

A group of soldiers traverse the forest, six soldiers handpicked for this operation by the Commander itself. Auroras Solace lit a small area around them. Meanwhile, at the front Axsit and Kalashnikov take the lead followed by Belgrade. Pure sits towards the back, with Dreadon near the center itching to shoot the first thing that moves.

They are targeting a black site facility with a reportedly OgrS logo on it, and since the Avatar project is rapidly building up they are hoping this will knock it down a few pegs.

With a raise of a hand, Axsit stops the group. As soon as Aurora looks ahead she notices why. Kalashnikov takes cover, “That’s a bloody Ethereal.” The rest of the squad takes cover before Belgrade speaks up, “Are you certain?” Kalashnikov shoots her a glare before Pure replies “I’ve got visual on the target, decaying flesh like that’s only found on Lost and Ethereals after all.” Aurora takes a deep breath to calm herself as Kalashnikov vaults over his cover, preparing to engage in the fight ahead.

Belgrade opens fire as Kalashnikov scores a direct hit, the Ethereal responds by opening three psionics rifts, the first spewing out a Berserker. “Xcom, you have made a grave error in coming here.” Pure responds by sniping the Berserker, causing the beast to fall limp. Axsit slices towards the Elder narrowly grazing it. “Innocent human! You do not understand what you are opposing!” The next rift reveals a Sectoid.

Dreadon responds by firing two precise shots into its leg, the other leg is swiftly sliced by Axist as Belgrade and Kalashnikov open fire. “Allow me to bless you with our true power!” The Eldar raises its hand as a Null Lance pierces right through Belgrade's armor forcing her to clutch her wounded torso. The last rift opens revealing nothing.

Axsit swiftly swings in the air as a metal clang reveals the Assassin, having parried the blow. “A worthy adversary, it will be an honor to slay one who could predict my strikes.” The two swiftly engage in a sword duel none being able to strike the other. The Eldar prepares another null lance before suddenly clutching its head.

Auroras psionics flare around the battlefield as they attempt to mind control the being in front of them. The Eldar is then forced to drop their psionic shielding to prevent the Domination and in doing so is defenseless to the attack that comes next. With a quick blast of a shotgun the Ethereal screeches a high-pitched cry, before it can even attempt to open a rift it feels its mind lose control to the Domination.

The Assassin surprised at the turn of events is unable to parry the next attack cutting clean through her torso.

Aurora leaves her cover and approaches the now controlled being, Dreadon grips his pistols tightly before turning to their compatriot, “To think theirs that much psionic power in such a small person,” the ensuing glare does not dampen his smirk within his helmet. Pure then comes down from her vantage point, Belgrade in tow, “Alright, someone put a bullet in that thing, and let's plant the X4 and give this girl some medic stuff ye?” With a blast of a shotgun the Ethereal falls, causing the Hunter, far at range to retreat, “My sister tried and she failed, as far as I’m aware she failed to hold the facility, not me.”

—-()——

The Hunter swings by his favorite legless scientist, a clear question he wants to ask. “Does the name Aurora ring a bell to you?” She drops her tools before turning to the marksman, “Purple hair? Strong psionics?” “And is capable of mind-controlling an Elder? Ye that one.” The bioengineer in front of him sights before looking out at the sea above them. “I kidnapped her and her twin during a raid on a town during the first Invasion, she was incredibly psionically gifted and I wanted to improve upon that. A few dead people here, a few dead aliens there and we get the strongest psionic I have ever seen. She escaped by using her powers, which I should have seen coming.” She turns to the Hunter a glint in her eye. “Capture her and we could finish my project and the Avatar project at speeds near incomprehensible.” The Hunter grins, like a wolf after finding a free meal, “Well looks like I’ve got a way to get this planet without needing that old Commander.” The biomechanical dog perks up at the idea of a hunt and their local scientist can not wait to get her revenge.

—-()——

Pure sits at a tower in the haven, the locals celebrating the construction of a relaying giving her a chance to think. Her silence was soon disturbed by a psion climbing the tower to join her. “Hello Pure, how are you feeling?” The sniper stares out into the crowd below, “Honestly? Not too good. Do you mind if I borrow your ears?” A nod from the psion causes her mood to lighten as she reaches for her helmet. After taking the headgear off she lets her pure white hair flow in the dull wind before begging, “Do you ever wonder if theirs an end? To all this looping I mean. I’ve seen the Eldars die so many times, and a part of me hopes with this organization’s destruction we could finally move on.”

She slams her fists on the railing, “I’m tired of spending every day waiting for it to start over! I’m tired of watching my friends die and go through the same thing I am! I became a sniper because I wanted a job I could do alone, and now I get to watch these people die on the inside! If only the people in these heavens knew how many times they’ve most likely died.” She begins sobbing as she releases her feelings, Aurora having the conversation skills of a brick wall replies instead by hugging her, hoping it would make her feel better. “Sometimes I want to fall out of these towers I perch myself on, I want to grow old with someone, spend the last of my ears in the arms of another, not be stuck doing this for eternity!”

Aurora rubs circles around her friend's back before replying, “Either way you have me right? I’m sure one day everything will fix itself right?” Pure wraps her arms around Aurora in return before whispering, “Thank you, for being here.” A blush covers her face but luckily the psions face is hidden from the marksman, “It’s no problem, that’s what friends are for right?” Both girls soon leave the tower, mingling among the soldiers. One wonders about the future, the other determined to make this one the last.

Chapter Text

The Assassin sits in meditation, she has heard the sounds of Xcom, they have broken into her sanctum and are now approaching. With her hearing, she confirms the presence of two sparks, a psionic user, the sounds of explosions warn her of a bomber, and the sound of iron steps lighter than sparks confirms to her that the ranger is also here. The lack of a sixth sound clues her in on the last member, today she will either slay her greatest adversary or die at the hands of a red blade.

---()----

Ghoul then continues, “so these floppy little jellyfish kept wiggling and I-” “Is there a point to this story?” The grenadier shushes their psion, “Argon, there is a point to every tale.” Anva chimes in, “except this one.” Ghoul makes a mock gas before restarting his tale.

The German Spark turns to his French companion, “Systems all in line with expected requirements, and yours?” Survey gives a mechanical nod “Oui, Systems are functional,” Bismarck turns to his squadmates bickering about jellyfish and decides to turn his attention back to the other Spark. “Enquiry, do you have a task post-mission?” “Enquiry accepted, no I all available for a personal task” a small hum comes from the German. “Das ist gut, post-mission we shall discuss idle topics of interest.” “Oui”.

The squad soon arrives at the ascension pad and begins their ascent into their final battle with the Assassin, one man prepares for the final duel he will have, one final clash of blades.

---()----

The Battle begins and in a flash, gunfire is sent towards the line codex in the room before the Assassin makes her appearance. “You have done well to find this place Xcom, however, it will do you no favors, I will offer you a quick death,” Ghoul responded in tune by launching grenades at her cover while the rest of the squad opened fire, minus a swordsman who is saving his strength.

With her cover blown she is unable to withstand the hail of bullets, it does not take long for her sarcophagus to follow the same fate. As the Assassin reappears she cloaks, “To fight another on equal footing, how exhilarating!” As she charges forward she noticed a single man in the center of the room, the rest of the squad have taken to the corners. Axsit raised his blade, challenging a final duel. The Assassin knows she's outgunned, so she uncloaks and approaches the swordsman. Wordlessly the two speak to each other, both understanding the respect they share and both prepared to make this moment historical. Even if one knows this will happen again one day.

With a swing of her Katana, the Assassin strikes the Red Blades blade, quickly followed by repeated parties against the other's lightning-fast attacks. With a duck Axsit narrowly dodges a would-be fatal blow and attempts to strike the Assassin in the leg, she responds by rolling to her side as both raise their blades once again.

As their dance of blades continues neither can strike the other, both equally blocking and dodging. “No matter the outcome of this battle, know this, you are a worthy opponent!” Axsit nodes before they continue their exchange.

Eventually, however, the Assassin notices she's losing ground, each swing of her attacker's blade getting her close to the wall, she could cloak now, run away or even open fire with her shotgun. But where would the honor be in that? In a desperate attack she attempts to sever her opponent's arm but the moment she does, the realization of her mistake sinks in as the Red Blade motions his sword below her arm, and straight upwards into her own. The tearing of flesh in a single cut is the moment she knows she's lost.

As the Assassin drops to the floor, she has enough time to face her opponent, “You have done well Xcom, to this swordsman I leave my Katana, but to all of you, a dying wish. May you reclaim this world... For your own!” She uses her remaining arm to grab her blade before driving the sword into her midsection, the last thing she sees is the gaze of her adversary and the look he offers her, a look acknowledging her duel and her words.

---()----

As the Hunter polishes his gear he mulls over the recent events, and Elders' death was bad enough, the death of his sister though? He didn't see it coming, unlike his brother gloating about how he knew this day would come he understood the gravity of the situation, he could be killed, for good.

Behind him his local lab enthusiast walks toward him “I've heard what happened to your sibling, are you well?” The Hunter turns to face her, despite his towering height the other's cybernetics let them see eye to eye. “Nah it's more the thought that Xcom knows how to kill me, that'll be pretty hard to deal with.” The scientist hums not before laying the tablet down in front of him, “Not if Xcom falls first, we have the location of the Avenger, we can strike on your word.”

The Hunter's natural grin returns, “You sure know how to cheer a man up! While I remember, how are the new limbs treating you?” A happy sigh escapes the scientist's mouth, “Being able to walk normally again without freezing movements is a blessing, at this rate, if we capture our target I bet we could finish the Avatar project in a week!” The scientist can barely contain her excitement, hrs lily neither can the Hunter, he’s got a particular sniper to shoot after all.

—-()——

Onboard the ship Aurora sits in the dark, it’s 4 am Avenger time and frankly, she can’t sleep. As she goes through thoughts she hears the sound of footsteps alerting her to someone’s arrival. Senior Officer Bradford takes a seat next to the Brigadier, “Any reason you up at this hour Soldier?” The psion shakes her head, “Usual insomnia.” Bradford hums before opening a bottle of Vodka, “We aren’t sleeping anyway” he says before offering her a glass. “Did I ever tell you about my old squad in the Marines?” The psion shakes her head. “We all had insomnia, even called ourselves the Nightmen because it was the only time we were ever properly up.” He chuckles to himself before taking a drink.

“Met the Commander there as well though we didn’t get along at first, anyhow the reason I’m bringing this up is I lost a lot of soldiers to their minds, people deciding their service wasn’t enough or perhaps even joining the army to hope to die.” He shakes his head, “Not all were like this of course, but I don’t want to see this happening hear.” He pats the psion on the shoulder, “Your a good Soldier, always have been through the resets and I remember when we first picked you up, so tell me is there anything bothering you?”

The psion closes her eyes before turning to her superior, “I have a secret I can not tell, something so bad, not even my brother would forgive me for, what do I do with this? How do I deal with a problem I can’t share?” Central hums before replying, “Well id suggest sharing this secret but since you can’t, how about this. Meditation helps calm you down however I’d recommend writing it down, keeping it in a safe place, or maybe even destroying it after, and remember you have people that will always hear you out.” Tears start to form in the eyes of the local psion before central pats her back, “Remember there are always people out there willing to listen to you, to be with you and support you. Me and the Commander at minimum, we all have our secrets so trust me you are not alone.” The psion nods to these words as central stands up, “Well I’ve got a report to do, if you ever need someone and can’t find a friendly face report to the Commander, there are always willing to hear you out.” The psion nods as she debates what to do now.

Chapter Text

A crew of soldiers walks out of the Avengers ramp, Hunter's cannons roaring as they attempt to pierce the hull. Pure takes a vantage point on the roof of the ship, Dreadon and Themrikson run forward, flanked by Kalashnikov and Sofia. Finally, Aurora follows behind them.

They had debated who would go, Pure and Aurors were obvious picks being the top soldiers. Dreadon and Themrikson's teamwork and firepower made them a near-guaranteed pick. Axsit was still tired from his final encounter with the Assassin and Kalashnikov had the trouble of picking a final squadmate despite his reluctance eventually after going through his options Sofia personally approached him, despite voicing his opposition Commander eventually put her in the squad.

The first pod contains two Heavy Mecs and an Andromedon. The hulking suit attempts to open fire but is forced into cover by Sofia's counterfire. The first Heavy Mec is destroyed by a fuse from Aurora while the second falls to a clean shot from Pure. Dreadon and Themrikson unload into the Andromedon as Kalashnikov finishes off the suit with a point-blank shot.

—-()——

The Hunter meanwhile opens the network, “So I see the little psion, are you sure these Disruptor Bullets work?” The scientist scoffed from the other side of the line, “It’s based on the Warlocks rifle, it should work. Your newly upgraded companion has them equipped. You must succeed here, they have taken a psionic gate already…” The Hunter aims his rifle, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” A crack shakes the sky as he scores a direct hit on Pure. “Take that, you bastard.”

—-()——

The scream of their companion alerts the rest of the squad to the Hunters position, they begin to move in as Chayara exits the Avenger to help their fallen sniper.

An upcoming pod of Chrysalids poses no threat to the five teammates, however, when they arrive at the guns no one is there. “Squad prepares X4 charges, look out for the Hunter” heading Kalashnikov's words the squad form a circle. Inching closer to the artillery battery.

Suddenly a shot from the dark claw sends the squad running to cover. Kalashnikov clutches his wounds informing his team of his injury, “I won’t be able to aim straight with this.” As they all turn to face the Hunter, his canine friend however capitalizes on the opportunity and fires a Disruptor shot.

The sound of Auroras screaming and subsequent fairing alerts the Hunter of the direct hit. Sofia yells “Squadmate down!” Before opening fire on the canine, her elerium cannon shreds its armor. Suddenly the Hunter calls upon two Mec O6s both of which draw fire as he dashes towards the psion.

The squad has no time to react as he drops the smoke Grenadians grab his target. “Well Xcom it was fun, but frankly I’ve got a prize to cash in.” He promptly teleports off along with his canine and prisoner.

As the smoke clears the squad finishes the remaining aliens before returning to the Avenger, one less among them.

—-()——

Aurora wakes up, psionic inhibitors all around her and metal limbs keeping her in place, a mechanical device around her mouth. Before she can question how she got here she spots two figures, the first being the chosen Hunter and the second being one she wishes she’d never see again.

“Hello, Aurora.” Her feet clank against the metal floor as she approaches her prisoner. She guides her mechanical arm to her jaw, “It’s good to see you again.” She slowly takes out a syringe, “We have a lot of catching up to do, but first I need a sample. I’m sure you won’t mind.” Driving the syringe deep the mechanical mask over her mouth prevents her from screaming.

Pulling the syringe out she hands it to one of her newly created robotic assistants. “You are truly a miracle, I was worried for a second that the Avatar project would be stuck at basically 0 but thanks to you, we will finish in the up and coming month.” She smiles a vicious smile before turning to leave, “Enjoy your stay.”

—-()——

The remaining Xcom operatives are meeting in the mess hall. Axsit is the first to speak up, “Gentlemen we have a fucking problem.”Anva nods “We already have the local resistance looking for our lovable psion, what more can we do?”

Argon decides to voice his opinion, by slamming his fists down onto the table, “Perhaps we figure out how a squad of our highest trained soldiers managed to get someone captured for the first time in over 10 loops.”

Dreadon speaks up first from the original squad. “Simple, a bullet managed to knock her out and disable her solace, I’m guessing a sort of Disruptor bullet.” Pure nods, “I remember the last time she was hit by the Warlock's rifles it nearly knocked her unconscious.” Themrikson sighs sadly, “Me and Dreadon were too focused on shooting at the reinforcements we should know the Hunter would try something like this.”

Kalashnikov decides to speak up, “Perhaps if our Gunner hit half her shots we could have done more to prevent it.” Sofia angrily turns toward the communist, “I’m sorry, perhaps you shouldn’t have gotten your hand broken” the Cyborg responds with a glare, “Perhaps if we had a different squadmate we could have prevented this all together.” Belgrade stands up, “Perhaps this whole war would have been easier if you hadn’t killed as many as you did years before!” Kalashnikov bolts up before his eyes glow a vicious red, “Your rebellions lead to the deaths of millions, it is not my fault you were a terrorist, a shame I haven’t finished you all those years ago.”

As they both prepare to lunge for each other Axsit with blazing speed pulls out his newly acquired Katana and flashes it between the two, “Enough! You’re squabbling like bloody children! We need a plan of action here not a useless feud!” Both soldiers respond by sitting down. Titano sighs before mumbling to Ghoul, “Glad to see we are being productive eh?” Ghoul responds with a simple “As productive as dead men.”

—-()——

As the meeting comes to an end Pure walks to her room, takes off her mask, and clutches her face. “I could have done something, I should’ve seen the Hunters shot coming, I could’ve prevented this!”

She yells at her walls. Due to the soundproofing, no one can hear her, she feels alone.

Chapter Text

As they wait for some intel to find their lost psion the crew must busy themselves until the time comes. This is the reason Valgorne, Ghoul, Titano, and Kalashnikov are currently sitting around the table, cards in hand.

“Hey uh, Ghoul, I don’t think this is how you play Blackjack.” The grenadier turns to the purifier confusion in his eyes, “It’s just that, you’ve passed 21 like two cards ago.” Kalashnikovs was personally surprised it took the rest of the table this long to notice.

Valgorne sighs, “Instead of cards howbout a discussion, based around a certain event yesterday.” Titano faces his fellow soldier, “Ye that was a hell of an outburst, somethin up?” “I’ve put up with her for far too long, her hypocrisy just grated me.” Ghoul clasps his comrade's shoulder “Whatever it is we are behind you, you have led us to victory and saved our lives on multiple occasions and I trust your judgment.” Valgorne and Titano both nod. Kalashnikov feels himself grow a little bit happier.

—-()——

On the other end of the room another group has formed, Anva, North, Biocore reluctantly joined followed by Belgrade. North is quick to turn to the newcomers, “Belgrade glad to see you! And Biocore it’s been a while, where have you been?” Both sit down before Biocore responds, her shy voice amplified by the suit, “Scout work, I’ve found multiple leads but they keep ending in dead ends.” “It doesn’t help you end up shooting them” Anva replies. Biocore shrinks back into her seat.

North suddenly turns to Belgrade, “About yesterday, you feeling alright?” Belgrade shakes her head, “As good as you can be I suppose”, North pries further, however, “What was it all about? I’ve never seen you so angry before.” Instead of answering she goes dead quiet.

Anva leans back against the table, “Don’t worry, this is a safe place, no spies here unless a Faceless got onboard.” Belgrade sighs before responding, “I feel responsible for what happened on the mission, and that vile communist wasn’t helping.” North responds by shaking her head, “Listen you need to tone it down, the whole ship already knows you hate each other, it’s a stressful time please don’t make us have to bury that cybernetic asshole.” Anva cuts in, “While I do believe you should’ve been more diplomatic we are behind you.” Belgrade nods, feeling better about having people to help her.

—-()——

The two reapers decide that frankly, this job sucks. Chronovice turns to his ally, “Nightwalker, tell me why did we have to do this again?” Nightwalker shakes his head, “Because we are the stealth units, and fuck knows we obviously want to do this.”

Chronovice idly gazes around the street. “All this fighting and we have to miss it to pick up a damsel in distress.” His partner reloads his gun, “I hope we don’t miss anything, the only thing that changes during these resets is the family dramas.” Chronovice scoffs at that, “I remember you said that last time, and now we got a bloody organization to deal with on top of the floating rotting mummies.” His partner laughs at that, “Hey maybe if we're lucky next time we can face floating crabs.” Chronovice chuckles at the thought, “If we fight aliens crabs someone’s going to eat them.” They both share a knowing glance, they’re always up for some seafood.

—-()——

Aurora groggily wakes up, the machine around her mouth now gone, though multiple limbs are keeping her head in place. Wires sticking into her spine bring data into machines. “Good to see your awake.” Aurora glares fiercely at the scientist “Lorelei good to see you.” The scientist is stunned momentarily before trying to brush it aside, “This is how you reward me for taking that device off your mouth? How rude.” She steps forward until she’s face to face with her.

“What? I bet I’m the only one who remembers your name, and no one else ever has and will.” Lorelei pushes her jaw shut, “Remember for my experiments your tongue is not needed, so please cease talking.” She lowers her arms and weirdly just stares. She wonders how long it’s been so de she’s been around a real human, the purple bean pole despite his amusing personality does not count.

She leans forward and puts her lips against the others before jumping at the sound of a voice, “Lorelei huh? Quite the name.” Aurora's glare threatens to burn said scientist to the ground. “Hunter, good to see you.” “Uh-huh well sorry to interrupt your friendly session, the Elders want you to join us in the meeting hall.” As the Hunter leaves she’s left with her thoughts and a disgusted psion.

—-()——

The Warlock and Hunter both take their places while the scientist sits in the fourth walkway. A burst of psionics power announces the arrival of the Elders. “Our children, you have heard of the death of your sister, and within us we feel such loss.” The psionics around the Elder suddenly flare-up, “But within you, we sense something else, arrogance, and, satisfaction. There can be only one explanation.” Suddenly a pillar of psionic energy comes crashing down on the two Chosen, “You have succumbed to the failings of humanity! You have squandered our gift to you! What has been made can be reclaimed!” Suddenly the psionics let up, letting the others catch their breaths, “Find the Commander, capture them and bring them to us, do not fail us again! NOW GO!” With that, the two chosen are teleported off and they turn to face the scientist.

“We have reviewed your progress and must say we are most pleased, the council wishes to speak to you once the Avatars are completed.” The scientist replies, “I would be honored to meet them.” “But first, we have learned that a psionic gateway has been stolen, should Xcom come for our base we must be prepared to defend ourselves.” The other nods, “Do not worry, I have a plan.”

—-()——

While alone Lorelei can only think, she is conflicted. On one hand, she is nearing completion, the Avatar project is nearly done and she has completed her mechanical prototype. But she can’t stop thinking about that touch. How long has it been since she talked to another human, since she’s had someone like her, and one of her old subjects no doubt. She should make the most of this, it only makes sense, right?

—-()——

The reapers rush into the command quarters, a file drops onto the commands desk. “She’s being held at the Hunters stronghold.” And with that vital clue, Xcom prepares to strike.

Chapter Text

The Hunter is not having a good day, not only has Xcom snuck into his stronghold, he’s now arguing with a disabled scientist, not his kind of morning. “So what, I don’t shoot the extremely powerful psion they’re coming to retrieve?” The scientist practically yells at him “Yes! If you kill her the Avatar project will be as good as dead! I modeled the entire bloody thing off of her, we need her alive.”

The Hunter can only wonder if this whole avatar shortcut was worth it, “Are you sure that’s the reason? You not getting attached to our guest are you?” Lorelei calms down before replying, “No, that would not be logical.” “Sure logical, I’m sure that mouth-to-mouth examination really furthered things.” The scientist meanwhile has turned away from the Hunter, “If she gets rescued we can just recapture her.” The Hunter shakes his head at that.

He strides over beside her, “They have an Avatar corpse, a psionic portal, and soon a powerful psion. I think they’re going for a final push.” He draws his pistol before putting it down in front of her, “I’ve got a last-minute modification I need you to make, if you do it I’ll let our guest walk free.” The scientist nods, “Assuming Xcom triumphs that is.”The Hunter wants to admit to her that this will most likely be the end, Xcom has butchered his sister and killed an Elder, he may be delusional but he isn't blind. For some reason, he doesn’t tell her. why? he does not know.

—-()——

Axsit cleanly sliced through the remaining Heavy Mec, its body sliced in two. Dreadon and Themrikson take turns shooting at the remaining Vipers as a insanity from Argon causes one to panic, said enemy runs right into Anva he gives it a quick shot. Finally, Deacon opens fire on the remaining Viper, it’s body collapses.

The team enters the ascension pad and is transported to Hunter's inner sanctum. “You finally arrived huh? You know I never expected someone to willingly walk into this room, full of confidence aren’t you?” He crouched down and prepares his Darklance, “Soon to be full of holes.” He then fires his rifle striking Axsit in the shoulder. Dreadon and Themrikson both take opposite flank routes.

As the Hunter aims again his Mecha Wolf jumps straight for Deacon at the back, the specialist barely has time to react as teeth sink into his leg. As the Hunter prepares to headshot the unaware specialist a blade cleanly slices through his abdomen. “Huh, that doesn’t seem right.” All he gets in response is the warm embrace of the void.

When he reappears he sees his sarcophagus in pieces, cracks echoing around it. Drawing his Darkclaw he flips a switch. Quickly he spins around and fires. A shot strikes Anva directly into the arm, the sound of bone breaking ringing through the room as the bullet goes straight through.

Just before he can fire again two shots strike his chest as he is sent down onto the floor. Themrikson walks forward, his guns twirling in his hands as he reloads them. The Hunter can only wait for the shot that’ll end his hunt.

Suddenly from the ascension pad, a Sectopod appears. Larger and laced with a menacing gold and dark purple colour scheme. It announces its arrival by revealing two chain guns on its side. The squad fly’s into cover as elerium rounds are sent across the room.

The Hunter notices a rift appear behind him, in a clean jump he dives right into it, feeling a bullet nick his shoulder.

The Sectopod opens its Wrath Cannon, while its top reveals a sniper-like gun. As the Sectopod fires, it fails to notice the gremlin behind it. When Axsit hears a mechanical groan from the machine he strikes the now stunned robot, as the leg comes clean off the machine falls.

—-()——

Lorelei meanwhile walks up to their captive. Aurora responds with a gleeful smile, “I can hear the gunfire you know, it won’t be long before a shell pierces that ugly head of yours.” The scientist steps forward, placing her arms on her captive's back before pulling her into a hug, “I’ll be long gone by then, it was good catching up with my favorite psion.”

All she gets in response is a glare and a promise, “When I find you, I’m going to crush your mind with my psionic power you love to research so much.” The scientist releases the one-sided. The sound of a sarcophagus breaking causes her to quicken in her escape, being captured right now would be a death sentence after all.

—-()——

Back onboard the Avenger, the team crowds the now rescued psion. Besides a select few most are glad their fellow soldier is safe. Chronovice then kills the room's good mood, “Before we have a nice old celebration, Volk wants confirmation of two things.” He does not wait for a reply before asking, “Firstly what is the status of the Hunter?” Themrikson takes center stage, “Injured, sarcophagus destroyed and a broken shoulder, we won’t be seeing that snake anytime soon.” Cheers erupt in the common room before Chronovice asks the next question, “Finally is it true that Advent has been working with a third party?“ The squad goes silent, except for Aurora who steps forward, “The old leader of the OgrS is still alive and has sided with Advent, we need to strike soon before they finish their project.” A sense of dread fills the room before Kalashnikov speaks up, “Are you sure?” Hopeful disbelief leaked from his voice, “Yes, I have no doubts at all.”

The reaper nods before leaving the room. Eventually, they go back to celebrating.

—-()——

Anva sits in Tygans lab, “I’m sorry to say this, truly I am.” The head scientist motions to her arm, “With the current planned time of operation Levisthen, your arm will not heal, intact it may not heal for some time. Again I am sorry.”

The warrior can only nod and rest her head. She is saddened that she won’t be able to aid her fellow soldiers, but she is sure that they will succeed. Why would this time be different from the last?

—-()——

Pure and Aurora meet in the marksman’s room. “It’s good to see you again, the ship hasn’t been the same without your solace in the air.” Aurora can only nod at that a fierce blush covering her face. “Pure, while I was there I had a lot of time to think, and, well.” The psion tries to convey the message but the Sniper is struggling to accept it, both wanting to say the same thing but unable to do it.

As they awkwardly stare at each other, Aurora takes a deep breath, “We’ve known each other since the start of these resets, I’ve watched you defend people with the accuracy of a god, and I just want to say, I, uh love you.” As Pure freezes momentarily Auroura starts to spill everything out, “Like for a really long time now, you’ve always seemed so beautiful and elegant, and the times we talk together are some of the best and well I’ve always wanted to “ she’s interrupted by Pure giggling as she removes her helmet.

“I understand, we are in the same boat, I’ve been trying to think of ways to say it for years.” Her white eyes awkwardly look away, “But are you sure? I’m the reason you were captured after all.” Aurora hugs her teammate, “No one expected the Hunter to have some Anti-Me bullets, and hey we learned about Lorelei so that’s something.” She mumbles under her breath “that sick disgusting pervert.”

Pure raises her head at that, “Pervert? What did she do?” Clear worry is leaking from her voice, Aurora laughs in response, “Don’t worry, she was a bit touchy, I sure hope she hasn't developed a crush on me cause that’ll be really awkward.” She turns to her new lover, “It’ll be really awkward when I look through her mind.” Pure giggles before tapping her gun resting on the counter, “Not if I get her first.” Aurora grins as she throws herself at the marksman.

“I love you my White Lily.” Another chuckle erupts from the marksman, “Pet names already?” Aurora hugs her in response, “I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this, I’ve thought of everything.” Pure raises her eyebrows at that, “Everything? Even this?” She then kisses her cheek. Aurora wants to respond that she had seen this coming but is currently struggling to grasp it. The sniper just giggles in response.

Chapter Text

As the Geth and his fellow Mechs enter the city he can only release a robotic sigh. “Cloaker has finally tracked U-AZ, we are here to retrieve him.” The other Sparks nod as Julian shakes his head, “Of course, he shows up right before the network tower.” As they arrive at the city one of the locals runs up to them.

“Xcom! Thank god you are here! Theirs this rouge robot going around beating random civilians.” The Geth nods as the squad move in.

As they round a corner they notice an Advent Captain fly out of the alleyway into the wall. Azul notices his comrades and gives them a wave, “My friends you are just in time! I have this collaborator to deal with!” A panicked civilian cowers in the corner.

Bismarck mechanically facepalms as the Geth explains to his fellow Spark. “Every reset they’re are always changing this includes Darl VIPs, you’ve been assaulting regular civilians.” The blue mech visibly lowers as Survey releases a robotic chuckle. “Well, I think my job is done here then.”

As the Geth deploys the flare a crowd start cheering. “Thank you Xcom! We will forever be in your debt.” Under his breath, Julian mutters, “Humanity was a mistake.”

—-()——

As Aurora lies with Pure the two idly stare at the ceiling. “So tell me my little Iolite what do you plan to do in the future together?” Aurora hums thoughtfully before replying, “Maybe live in a quiet house in the middle of nowhere, ever wanted children?” When Pure doesn’t respond the psion turns to her lover.

“What’s wrong my Lily?” Pure shakes her head before taking her helmet off. “I’m actually incapable of having kids, a problem with my womb.” Pure gives a sad look before wrapping her arms around her torso. “Well to be fair I doubt we will be making kids anytime soon.”

The albino giggles before leaning into her girlfriend, “I suppose your right, I just want to be able to pass on my skills to someone you know?” Aurora replies, “I’m sure you’ll find someone, who could always teach me.” Pure once again giggles sending a warm feeling down her partner's chest.

“You're a terrible shot my Iolite.” Aurora huffs, “Aiming isn't the hard part of psionics, the hard part is not focusing on the lovely girl behind me.” Pure blushes as she wraps her arms around her lovers.

Now intertwined the two stays like that for a few minutes before Pure speaks up, “I love you Aurora.” Aurora merely smiles in response.

—-()——

Titano slams his drink on the table. “I’m calling it! Kalashnikov will get with Belgrade before Axsit finds a lover.” Kalashnikov shakes his head in response before Ghoul replies, “But have you seen the swordsman? He could turn any of us gay with a flick of his sword, besides I’m sure once this is all over women will be desiring that man like no tomorrow.” Valgorne decides to defend Titano, “IF the war ends, which frankly it doesn’t seem to, besides he strikes me more as the type of guy to never fall in love I could at least see Kalashnikov meeting with Belgrade above deck for some-“

Kalashnikov quickly interrupts, “I’d much rather you not infer I fuck my greatest enemy!” The three men back down before Deacon speaks up, “If it makes you feel better Kalashnikov you're pretty popular with the resistance fighters.” The cyborg doesn’t show it but the comment cheered him up a little.

—-()——

North turns to Belgrade, “I know you hate that cyborg guy, but you have to admit he’s pretty darn hot for a half-machine hybrid.” Belgrade sends a disgusted look to her friend, “I’d rather let humanity die than be with that tyrant, why don’t you go with him?” North giggles, “Girls are my thing howbout you Anva?”

The armoured woman responds, “I can see the appeal, due to his cybernetic he has a great physic and his commanding voice combined with clear speech make him someone easy to look up to.” Despite Belgrade's mask, Anva can feel the glare being sent her way.

North wraps her arms over Slav's shoulder, “If it makes you feel better, I think you’re hotter.” Despite her mask once again North can tell she’s blushing a storm.

—-()——

Axsit sits quietly in his chamber before Central walks in. “Bradford, it is good to see you, do you have need of me?”

The second in command shakes his head, “Just checking to see if my soldiers are alright, you’ve been in your room for a while now, something bothering you?” The swordsman nods, “My thoughts keep drifting into the future and I wonder what it’ll hold for me, will I ever pass on my swordsman skills or will it die with me.”

Bradford nods before taking a seat next to the man, “I’m sure you’ll find someone, your skills with a blade have no equal however I’m sure you could teach someone how to use them. Besides your legacy will live on forever once this war is over.”

Before the soldier can reply Bradford decides to drill his point further. “You are undeniably the best close range soldier on this whole planet, I’m sure one day you’ll find someone to settle down with and give you a child, you’re a rational guy, I’m sure the child will turn out great and I’m sure you’ll teach them just as well. Don’t forget in your future you’ll have all of us to help you alright?”

Axsit nods as Bradford gets up, “You’ll always be one of us.” Axsit feels himself cheer up if only a little.

—-()——

Lorelei continues work on her project as the Hunter decides to speak up, “Why did you save me?” The scientist gives him a look before turning back to her machine, “To be honest, I don’t know myself, I just sort of felt like I had to? An interesting phenomenon.”

The Hunter mulls over her words before standing up, using his gun as a walking stick since his leg was blasted. “Maybe I can get cybernetics like you, then I won’t be able to make fun of you for it. Perhaps you could use Spector nanobots for it.” Lorelei hums, “It could be a scarf that turns into a hand, hell you might be able to make eyes and other stuff with that, a shame we haven’t got the time.”

Chapter Text

The Avengers crew walks among the common room, all waiting in anticipation. Seeing who will go on the final mission. The Commander's Avatar walks up to the stage and grabs the attention of every soul within the room. “For Operation Leviathoon, I am requesting Aurora, Pure, Dreadon, Themrikson, Axsit, Kalashnikov, Deacon and finally Belgrade, if you have any problems with this roster please approach Central, Thank you.”

With those words, the common room descends into discussion once more.

—-()——

The two reapers meet up again, vodka in each hand. Chronovice is the first to speak, “Once again we are passed upon the final mission.” Ravager takes a sip of vodka before replying.

“True but that means we are free to do as we wish, and I know a nearby resistance club we should go to.” Chronovice nods before taking another shot.

“Volk should come with us, the old man needs a break from the children.” Ravager nods, “I’ll invite the wolf then, will make the party extra spicy.” Chronovice then raises another shot, “To the Reapers, to Xcom and our great plans.” With a clink of their glasses they both cheer.

—-()——

Deacon sits among Titano, Ghoul, and Valgorne. A game of cards is brewing and a bottle of newly acquired Vodka is on the table. “So Deacon, ya excited?” Deacon raises an eyebrow, “We’ve all been on Pperstion Leviathan before why would-“ “Yes, but not with this Organisation in play.” Ghoul interrupts.

As Deacon ponders Valgorne speaks up, “The Commander chose our best men this loop, they’ve chosen to bring all three of their aces, I heard the Commander won’t be on the field either. Aurora can open the portal or something.”

Titano laughs in response to this, “I don’t see us losing with that old lass on our side, your sis is something Deacon.” Ghoul pats his fellow man on the back, “Don’t worry, it’ll be like any other Leviathan just with a couple of botched animals thrown in, nothing too bad.” The crew soon goes back to their card game. “Uh, Ghoul what are we even playing?” “Titano judging by the fact we all have different numbers of cards in our hand and Valgorne hasn't even got one I think we’ve messed up somewhere.”

—-()——

Axsit sits in silence the only sound is his shallow breaths. He sits in his room, debating. He wonders what his future is, assuming they get out of the loop. “Am I just a weapon for War?” He does not know.

He could become a famous swordsman, no man would challenge him, however. He could become a vigilante, but his sense of morality has decayed. What truly is he?

He has no ties to the OgrS, no connection to the Ethereals. A being from nowhere, will he return thereafter? He sighs a deep sigh and picks himself from the floor.

Thinking about the improbable is pointless, he grasps his blade, for now, he can do what he knows he can do. In the blink of an eye, he draws his sword. He can kill.

—-()——

Kalashnikov and Sofia glance at each across the room, both at their tables. Their stares speak a thousand words.

Both are forced to work together, yet both despise one another. If they had a choice the other would be dead.

As they go back to looking at their respective groups they know they are welcomed in their zone, by their comrades. Two beings once human, dragging the Cold War into the future.

—-()——

Themrikson and Dreadon sit in the second room. “Dreadon, about your past, and what you’ve told me.” Dreadon lifts his head, his concentration on his thoughts broken. “It doesn’t change who you are right now, your future is in front of you, you don’t need to let the past define you!”

Dreadon huffs before lying on his back, “I bet my father would be proud, he used to be a part of a group you know.” Themrikson offers his friend a beer before they continue.

“The Darkest Dagger they called themselves, himself a bioterrorist, a hacker, and a fighter. These four men shook the underground world constantly.” He takes a sip of his beer, “Supposedly all the members of the group are still alive, I’ve just never gotten to them in a reset before.”

Themrikson offers a hand to his friend, “When all this is over I will help you reunite with them then.” He chuckles before accepting the hand. “They’re probably all bastards but you never know.”

—-()——

Aurora and Pure once again find themselves in their room. Having yet to tell anyone else, it’s the only place they feel like they can share their affection.

Aurora snuggles up against the women in white armor, their body’s as close as can be through the plating. Aurora's mind is full of so many thoughts, all connected to the woman in front of her, this beautiful girl she gets to call her own. Frankly, she wouldn’t have it any other way. She doesn’t notice the fact she barely thinks of her twin, a man who leaves her mind with such little care.

Aurora puts her arms around her love, “Both of us are going huh?” Pure returns the hug, “Yes and hopefully we can put around between a certain someone’s head.”

Aurora hums before releasing her lover. Pure then states “And bey maybe she’ll be alive next reset to do the same thing again.” “Perhaps one day my love this whole thing will end, and it’ll just be us two together.”

Pure smiles as she takes off her helmet, the metal mask sliding off perfectly. “You a fast one you know, very eager to run off like some teenagers.” Aurora responds by kissing her, “I don’t see much of a problem with the idea.” Pure lets out another chuckle before replying, “No, I don’t see a problem either my little lolite.”

—-()——

Lorelei sits alone at her workshop, the Hunter is out of commission and the Warlock wouldn’t be much use since her machine is ready. The Avatars are still not competed which leaves her with a single choice.

She is ready for Xcom, for a certain girl in purple armor. She hears an announcement on the interception of the Advent Radio Tower. “Aurora my dear, oh I can’t wait.”

Chapter Text

Operation Leviathan begins and the team has little trouble dealing with the Advent forces inside. Combining Pure's long-range weaponry, Kalashnikov's close range and Sofia's medium-range is good enough, but throwing in two gunslingers to cripple targets a psion to wipe out entire pods and a hacker to deal with the few remaining Mechanical enemies while also providing support causes the entire mission to feel underwhelming. The cherry on top is Axsit, capable of wiping out large amounts of soldiers in a blink of an eye.

Even the OgrS new units pose little threat to the elerium weapons and Assassins Katana, they make it to the final room and prepare for the Avatars inside.

However, as they enter they notice something else on that final podium. The large Mech roars to life, its legs crushing the ground beneath, its arms move in a near fluid motion as it grabs its battle axe. The head rises as the eyes around it glow. Finally, a screen on the chest lights up revealing its pilot.

"Good, Xcoms all here." Lorelei raises the Mechs arms in the air giving a wide-open shot. Pure wastes no time firing but the squad notices the elerium projectile bounce of a sort of shielding. "Nice try, but you see I have a goal to achieve, all I need is your little psion." The vents on the back release a bellow of steam. "The rest have no reason to live sadly. A shame I worked hard on a lot of you." The axe whirls to life, elerium coating sparking off. "The hot wind of change is blowing Xcom, and I shall guide it to the heart of your Resistance."

With those words, the Mech jumps. Landing nearby the squad scatter to avoid the impact. Dreadon attempts to open fire but a missile battery reveals itself forcing the gunslinger to avoid the barrage of rockets. "You have no chance Xcom, I have won this battle." The Mech swings towards Kalashnikov who dodges the blow but is now cornered.

With a vicious smirk from the screen, Lorelei prepares to bring the axe sideways, before she can a hail of bullets pounds into her arm. As Belgrade opens fire Kalashnikov rolls between the legs, releasing a shot straight up. However, despite this onslaught, it shows no sign of slowing down.

Aurora sends a insanity but notices the pilot shrug it off. "You pathetic Psion, you think I didn't account for you!" With a whirl, the Mech suddenly dashes towards her and she can just about dodge a devastating swing, crushing the ground where she stood.

As Themrikson and Pure open fire they soon duck to avoid a barrage of plasma from a mounted machine gun. Deacon however sends his gremlin to attempt to hack this new foe. "Give up Xcom, the only way to win is to submit!" The Mech once again jumps approaching the sniper.

"Personally I think you lot are cowards anyhow, terrorists in the clothing of heroes." The Mech swings its axe destroying the cover Pure was using, she responds by activating her thrusters to repositions far away. The Mech releases a barrage of rockets grazing both gunslingers who had huddled together.

The Mech opens fire with its machine gun as it closes the distance. Kalashnikov attempts to shoot the Mech but it dodges and swings the blade upward. Stumbling back he barely has time to respond as the Axe comes straight down, cleaning an arm right off. "Got you!"

On the comms Aurora speaks up "Guys, we need a plan here!" Deacon then motions to his gremlin behind the Mech, "Guys I can disable a drive within the mech, I think it's what's regening the shielding, after that, you can pound it down with gunfire."

As the team nod they scatter into position, and then they hear a shutoff sound. Lorelei noticing the gremlin too late realizes what it has done. "You! No matter, it's time to finish this." The Mech opens a volley of rockets at Belgrade as it runs to Dreadon. The man dodges the first swing but before the second hit him a single shot cracks above the sky, a direct hit from Pure causing the shield to glow a fierce red.

As the squad begins their onslaught of attacks the Mech again jumps to the sniper before she can fly however it grabs her with its freehand. She smashes the sniper into the nearby wall, however, she is interrupted by a null lance heavily damaging the shielding. Now it glows a faintish purple.

Axsit speaks over the comms, "I've got a plan the moment the shield breaks, she does not know I am here yet" The Mech again lumbers forward, raising its hand to grab the psion but a shot from Kalashnikov using his bad arm causes the shield to shatter.

"You! Traitors pests! All of you, I will kill every last one of you, forgot the psion forgot Advent! I will grind you to paste!" The vent screeches out a mechanical cry as steam bursts forward, Axsits suddenly dashes forward and a loud cut is heard, Lorelei barely has time to react as a leg is sliced clean off.

She attempts to grab at Kalashnikov but a flurry of machine-gun fire weakens the armor allowing a single shot from the soviet to destroy the arm. She attempts to raise the axe but four precise shots from the gunslingers stun the arm allowing Pure to shoot a key point thanks to Deacons intel. Leading to the arms explosion. "No! NO! You can't win! I won't let you!"

The Mech attempts to lumber forward but Aurora fires another null lance, this coupled with a shot from Pure causing the vent to release a dangerous amount of steam along with elerium, "NO STOP IT! I DEMAND IT!"

A sudden blast and the mech explodes sending the pilot into mid-air, with a clean jump Axsit intercepts his foe. Two clean slices send both her legs and an arm flying off the pilot's body, causing it to crash to the ground.

Aurora seizes the opportunity to use mind merge on her opponent, with the psionic drive destroying their mind's touch as she reads through it all. Lorelei in a desperate move allows her into the network shattering the link through the sheer volume of information being sent.

Lying on the ground the group crowds the scientist, however with the mind merge she has come to realize something. Turning to the psion, "These resets that you know of, and the research I have done. It has worked hasn't it"

The squad frees as she continues, "You can rewind time! I've done it, I've done what so many have dreamt, and you've used it quite often haven't you?" As Aurora raises her rifle a quick cut from Axsit destroys the device, "Now I don't want to believe her straight away, but tell me, is that true?"

The squad all look confused, variant degrees of hurt and confusion flooding their faces. Dreadon then decides there is a way to find out, "Well how bout we find out?" He drops a flash bang and two shots are fired. Dreadon’s good arm is struck by Themrikson, however, his bad arm was the one with the gun.

Aurora's stasis cant kick in so she has one choice, raising her hand a flurry of psionic winds surround the squad and in a blink of an eye, all goes dark.

---()----

As everyone wakes up in their respective places, they all have thoughts that flood their mind. However, due to the mind merging, others also remember.

The Hunter approaches an abanded lab, his siblings with him and an Elder behind. "Well, I guess that confirms that." He picks up the scientist and walks away. "This has gotten far more complicated."

Chapter Text

Character Sheet:

Aurora Syber

A powerful female psion

Former experiment of the OgrS

With her intense psionic abilities, she quickly became one of the best soldiers, however, she has trouble with certain emotions like Lorelei.

Deacon Syber

A male hacker prodigy

Former experiment of OgrS

A kind man with a love of robotics he is happy for his twin's great success but is sad that she’s drifting away from him.

Dreadon

A male gunslinger

Former Haven Refugee

Due to a prior incident involving his father he has become a quiet but potentially violent man, however, he generally cares about those around him.

Eremeal Themrikson

A male gunslinger

Former Haven Refugee

An honest man who’s always willing to listen to someone’s problems. he is inspired obviously by cowboys and that one guy you can always approach with a problem.

Pure

A female sniper

Unknown

Her god-tier aim was known before the war during first contact, she had reportedly struck a UFO with a sniper shot and downed the ship. She is considered to be a kind but quiet member of the team.

Kalashnikov

A male ranger

Former experiment of OgrS and ABS

He worked for ABS or Assurance of Balkan Security and removed hostile rebel forces in the Balkan Countries he has grown to despise Sofia.

Sofia Belgrade

A female gunner

Former experiment of OgrS and resistance fighter

She worked in the Balkans sparking resistance against Soviet rule, her actions earned her the nicknames Ghost of Belgrade and Phantom of Sofia. Her mask hides the fact she’s technically faceless.

Axsit

A male swordsman

Unknown

A swordsman of exceptional skill, his only doubts are his future post-war. He is greatly inspired by Samuel Rodrigues from Metal Gear Rising Revengeance, however, he uses two blades.

Argon Prismanta

A male psion

Unknown

A powerful psion who specializes in mind-bending, he resents Aurours for being essential a superior version of him.

Chronovice and Ravager

Both male reapers

Russian workers

Former workers who escaped an Advent city by blowing up a random building and booking it, despite the interesting quirks Volk trusts them with his life.

North Queen

A female psion

Performer

She has a knack for healing psionics and maybe even better than Aurora at them, she’s also good with ice and has a crush on certain revolutionary.

Anva Chayara

A female ranger

Unknown

Occasionally blunt, she is described as a perfectly good soldier, always following orders and using an axe and shotgun combo.

Biocore

A female scout

Unknown

Anti-social and great at stalking have led her to become the perfect scout, however, she is quite shy around others. She wields a custom-made automatic shotgun.

Titanomeura

A male purifier

Unknown

A guy who just likes setting things on fire, his friends call him the “guy ya need to have some fun” he’s well loved for his friendly personality.

Ghoul

A male grenadier

Unknown

A guy who just likes making things go boom, he and Titano get along near perfectly, he’s also quick to bring up questions.

Sparks

Despite getting an intro in chapter 1 they are sadly barely used in the first work, Bismarck and Survey have a thing going and the Italian, Spanish, and Geth are nearly never mentioned. Julian’s there too.

Mularon Tyrannus and Count Noir

A male cyborg and swordsman

Unknown

Despite getting an intro these two are also underused, Mularon is the anchor to the Count's crazy ideas and the two are near inseparable.

Lorelei

A female scientist

Head of the OgrS

She is a brilliant scientist missing both her arms and legs due to an unnamed incident, she wishes to capture Aurora and use her for an unknown purpose. She is not used to loving something or someone, as such when these feelings appear she gets Incredibly nervous. She has been left touch starved due to all her years on the ground and is near-immortal from age. Due to this starvation, all her rational thinking dies whenever she so much as grabs someone.

Lorelei is a German myth about basically a siren leading sailors to their death, she is also slightly based on the Vocaloid song “Wicked”.

She is good friends with the Hunter.