The Toad Empire (MK, Open)

[Nemesis]

December 10th, AD 2880
Orphan Docks
12:00 PM

Big changes tend to start small.

So it was amongst the ranks of the Reclaimers following Dahlia's return. Struggle sessions and group debates had been a long cherished tradition among their educated members, not only to reaffirm the soundness of their own ideals, but to welcome challenges to their worldview. Sometimes, a challenge would necessitate a rethinking of their objectives, in the spirit of academic earnestness and free thought...

But not like this.

The Orphan interior docks, normally clustered with Gran Cher resting on their Plates, as well as numerous supplies, had been beautified as much as such a place could be, garlands and welcoming messages proclaiming friendship and solidarity with Britannia hung high and wide across its cavernous halls. It was almost enough to conceal the rippling, serrated slit-wafer walls that lay beneath, occasionally giving a subtle flex, as though the living vessel were breathing.

Adulation for Britannia had spread like wildfire through the Reclaimers the past week. At first, Dr. Gustave Clint had been skeptical - he'd railed against it, selling out to the symbol of oppression and tyranny in the modern world, but after a few conversations he began to, inexplicably, come around. There was something inherently persuasive, something deeply touching and emotional, about Britannia's lustrous glory that moved him to tears.

And so it was he found himself at the heart of the morass, trying to give the unaccustomed appearance of a dignified organization, and not a collective of outcasts.

Muttering to himself, he checked his watch. It was almost time for the delegation's arrival. Everything was in place.

He only hoped that everything would go smoothly...

 

[MKR]

Appearing on the horizon, a hallmark of Britannian engineering was moving through the clouds. The Caerleon-class Floating Battleship "Eirene", compared to its peers of the same class this ship had been neutered. The turrets concealed from sight and weakened as it was one of the designated Diplomatic vessels of the Holy Empire. Many could consider that, were this invitation a trap, Britannia had fallen for it hook, line and sinker.

Within the confines of the ship very few people moved about, sitting in the captain's chair on the bridge was a young lady. Far from first in line for the throne but still a daughter of the Emperor himself and thus a spokesperson for the entire nation, Louise li Britannia. Her gaze fell upon the two yellow points poking out of the ocean. She wondered just how big the vessel underneath was.

"Your highness, it is time to prepare."

She rose from her seat.
"Of course, remember. We are guests today to a prospective new territory of our empire, if any of you do anything to sour this relation you will have me to answer to."

Silence from the crew was followed by a unanimous "Yes your highness"

---

The docks now played home to the diplomatic vessel, a bridge extending outwards to allow its passengers to descend. First out of the door was also the one clad in the most luxurious cloths of the entire procession.

​

What followed behind was almost like a dance, every movement of the small entourage behind her moving in unison. Staying close enough to protect the royalty but never once encroaching upon her space. Two more contrasting cultures, one imagined, could not exist. From the vibrant differences of Orphan before this day to the almost serene uniformity of Britannian forces.

The hidden organic nature of Orphan, versus the sterile industry of a Britannian vessel. Yet here the latter was, invited by the former. Louise noted the décor of flowers and messages. But also the unusual movements of the walls, she had heard the tale the Orphan was alive. And they appeared to have more than a slight bit of truth to them.
"Dr. Clint." She spoke up, "On behalf of my father, emperor Alexandros zi Britannia. I, Louise li Britannia am full glad to be received in the halls of Orphan and I would like to thank you in his place for receiving us here." She gave a short, curt bow, a formality "Your message too, warmed our hearts to hear and to see these halls prepared thus, I cannot help but imagine this place as a second home."

 

[Nemesis]

"The pleasure is all mine, Princess."

Clint seemed taken aback - awed, so to speak - by the radiance the Princess seemed to emit. One could forgive him for being star-struck, given he'd spent his time at the bottom of the sea until now, nose deep in his research. He returned her bow with his own, before gesturing to lead them further inside. The older man spoke all the while, the passion for his research clear in his voice - it was easy to see how he had won so many converts... Or was it due to the strange influence of this place?

"We, the Reclaimers, have only ever desired peace and understanding with the outside world. We believe Orphan has much to teach all of humanity."

As they walked, overhead the towering Gran Cher stood at guard, Sword Extensions held ceremonially. One of two turned their heads to watch them in silence as they passed - and it was clear that they were far from thoughtless machines. Living, bio-mechanical entities, subtle differences in their frames indicating each was as unique as its pilot.

From within one of these, Dahlia Lycoris emerged, characteristically glaring at the surroundings before her gaze fell on the Princess, causing it to soften - though not even she could explain the rush of emotions overcoming her. Irritably, she gnashed down a pair of painkillers, trying to kill the pounding headache that was visiting itself upon her.

"To do that, we cannot continue to shut ourselves away. The way forward to peace is through engagement, and we have many shared values with the Holy Empire."

Here, Clint paused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. Negotiations were always a delicate thing, but it behooved him to make the first move. After all, the Britannian delegation had risked danger to visit them on their home turf, as it were.

"...Consequently, we made many errors in our earliest days. We'd like to apologize for those... misunderstandings."

Behind one of the maintenance platforms, watching events unfold from afar, one man didn't share the sentiments of his fellows. No, Wolfgang, on his first day back had been shocked at the sudden about-face of his fellows - and he'd consequently sequestered himself, unsure exactly of what was going on. His fingers drummed nervously on the support pillar, but failed to attract the attention of the Gran Cher above as he watched.

(Has everyone lost their minds?) He thought to himself, (Why are we bending at the knee to these fascists?).

 

[MKR]

As the procession continued inwards the woman looked over the two Gran Chers, there had always been a natural appeal to their designs she found. In contrast to the Beta these organic sentinels had a sense of authority not barbarity. Still, she listened intently to every word the man said. Diplomacy was among the most dangerous games to play after all.
"To err is human." She replied to his final statement "But from mistakes we learn, and grow. Through both word and action can the negative image of Orphan which remains fresh in our consciousness be corrected." She spoke solemnly, concluding by looking up to one of the Gran Chers standing above them, the one which had turned to look at them.

"Your apology soothes my heart, it truly does and so I believe that soon it can be corrected and the Gran Chers can be a point of pride like the Gloucesters or the honorable knights." She turned to the woman at the foot of the machine for a moment before focusing on the older man again.
"Today, together, we can make massive bounds of progress towards that. This I believe firmly."

"Because we too may have made mistakes in those days but, if Orphan is willing to join Britannia as its twelfth area."

"Then this could be a fresh start if you would, an adoption of the Orphan to the loving embrace of the Empire." The blond hair bobbed up and down a bit as she took a step to the Gran Cher. "From there would sprout the peace would start a shedding of misunderstanding." Her nephew, father's favorite loathed the disharmony in the world and above it and she agreed on that. Thus did she place his trust in him.

She returned once more to the man himself.
"What say you, Dr. Clint? What say your people?"

 

[Vicus Reginus]

Awake...

Warm...

Where?

Hunger...

H u n g e r.

An odd shift in color quickly pulsed across one of the Gran Cher's Plates as the head of the group passed, the hue shifting back as quickly as it changed; an easy thing to miss, however, what followed wasn't exactly subtle. A point on the perimeter of the Plate began to writhe in a short rhythm, the point steadily withdrew into the Plate causing it to appear minutely oblong. Suddenly but slowly, a series of odd nubs creeped out, up, and over the receded section until a small green shape slid out.

A short squeak could be heard as the strange green thing thrust itself out from under the Plate. A petite and fluff covered head perked up as an odd set of three eyes stared out at the world while a long bushy brush of a tail twitched and flicked.

Where?

Her Prey?

Unknown...

Life? Danger?

Unknown...

Hunger.

The little thing suddenly dashed across the room, hopping and flapping its tail. It weaved through the formation of people and rather rapidly circled them, stopping occasionally with a squeak as it tossed its gaze at certain individuals. Its eyes seemed to linger on Dahlia multiple times.

 

[Nemesis]

Dr. Clint nodded along as the Princess spoke. Truly, he thought, the blood of nobility ran in her veins! Ah, how foolish he'd been, he reflected, to willfully spurn such glory!

"That would be our greatest honor, Princess."

Clint pushed his glasses up with his finger, not quite knowing what else do with his hands. His whole body shook with an excitement he hadn't felt since first entering this place, upon seeing his first Revival... Truly, he knew in his heart of hearts, he'd made the right decision - for all of them.

"There's one more thing I'd like to show you while you're here..." He continued, beginning to turn towards the interior once more, "

The matter of the Plates, something which has been broadly misrepresented by the media-"

"Rat! RAT! There's a rat!"

There was a distant squeak, and something blurred underfoot, almost causing Clint to lose balance as it brushed his leg - only to be arrested in mid-fall by Dahlia, halting a yell of surprise midway past his throat. The two watched, with astonishment and horror, as the thing sped through the Britannian delegation - and Clint began to wonder for a moment if all his hard work had been undone. It was enough to make a grown man feel faint - but the young woman's words snapped him back to reality.

"Doctor?"

After a moment's uncertainty, he studied the creature, eyes following it as it moved around them inquisitively. The mind of a scientist elbowed aside the Geass momentarily, and settled into observation mode.

"...Honestly, I'm not sure what that is." He confessed, falling back into muttering to himself as he stroked his chin in deep thought, trying to recollect anything similar.

"Some sort of... parasite, perhaps? What a discovery...!"

Wolfgang, for his part, was having no part of it. Teeth clenched, he advanced on the interloper, reaching for a sidearm - only to find his path blocked. Dahlia looked him in the eyes, nothing even close to fear in her own - only steely indifference. It was enough to give even him pause for a moment, fingers hovering over the pistol grip uncertainly.

"...Wolfgang." She said, softly.

"You're scaring it."

"It's-!"

"Shut up."

Her eyes followed its path, to the scuffed portion of the Plate. She looked briefly to the Princess, as Clint set about helping up and reassuring any that had fallen during the creature's madcap dash, and instead lowered herself to the floor. Fishing in her pocket, she produced some gleaming, silvery shards - plate pieces, ordinarily nothing more than garbage - but the way they caught the light made them useful for artwork... and down here, you needed hobbies to keep yourself from going mad.

"...Here."

She extended a gloved hand, carrying the glittering fragments, in its direction, saying quietly as she did:

"...Is this what you want?"

 

[MKR]

She smiled as the Doctor gave his answer, nodding as he spoke.
"If so we would gladly welcome you." She replied before Clint continued, the procession following after just before the scream echoed through the hall. Louise jumping backwards as the entourage folded outwards. The two closest ones picking her up and raising her by the undersides of the arm in a fully prepared action and seemingly well trained.

The green thing blurring underneath, through the gap now left as the Britannians stumbled slightly.
"Well, that was unexpected. Alan, Glen, you can put me down now." After a moment the princess was set down, taking a deep breath to regain her composure. The two that carried her returning to her shadow in silence. The rest of the procession moving back into position as well some with help from the doctor and most without, each keeping an eye on the green creature.

"What was it you said Doctor, Orphan having much to teach? If even today in these very halls that is the case then that cute creature has proven your point for you." She stepped besides him, calmly observing the three eyed creature. It looked unlike anything back at home, at the same time however she could see herself just five years younger cuddling up to it and snuggling it as she walked the halls of the palace. Nowadays she felt bad for the cat.

Her eyes fell on Dahlia, she was fully intent on letting the girl do what she wanted and not interfering with the procedure of taming this cutie. "I hope it is fine to delay a moment to watch this unfold Doctor Clint? It should help ease everyone's nerves after a spur of unexpected excitement." Her eyes fell on Wolfgang as she said that before turning back to the creature and Dahlia.
"We take a moment to calm ourselves, ease our minds and then we have all the time to discuss misrepresentation of the plates before moving onto matters of bureaucracy."

 

[Vicus Reginus]

The creature slowly reared back as the hand approached it, obviously unknowing of what this intrusion on its personal space is. However after a brief second its head bobbed forward carefully as small tendrils emerged from its chest, a pair coming to rest on the bits in Dahlia's hands. The little thing seemed to inspect the fragments before sucking them up, the shining shards rumbling lightly before becoming like a liquid flowing into the creature. Sniffing around for anything else left in the hand, the creature looked back up at Dahlia.

Must grow...

Who?

Connect?

Remember...

...Hunger.

The red eye in the center of the fuzzy thing's head began to glow as it stared up at the Reclaimer. However this lasted for only a few seconds as it put its head back down into the palm and sniffed again. A sudden pain would be felt as the creature nipped at the hand, though with Dahlia consuming all those pharmaceuticals who knows how painful it was.

Not good.

Good?

Connect?

The fluff scampered up the human's limbs, coming to rest at the top of Dahlia's head. It flattened itself somewhat with a squeak, draping its soft tail around the human's head.

 

[Nemesis]

CHOMP

"Ah."

Dahlia's face radiated only pleasant calm as the newcomer sniffed about her hand, enjoying its "snack" - and then, registered dull surprise, the day's regimen of painkillers subduing the effect of the bite long enough for the creature to skitter up to the top of its new vantage point. She examined the bite mark curiously, as the Doctor gave an "ooohh" of approval, fighting every urge to approach. In the background, Wolfgang shrunk away from the Queen's scathing look, making his way back to his quarters. The sight of the green rodent alone was going to give him nightmares.

"What's your name, then?" She said quietly, reaching up to brush the ends of the thing's tails. She pursed her lips in thought for a moment, before continuing:

"...Slayer? Spike? Killer...?"

"Ahem. Dahlia?"

A loud cough from Dr. Gustav got attention as he, for the sake of the "rat"'s future, endeavored to intervene.

"Perhaps her Majesty might have a more... appropriate suggestion?" He said, invitingly.

Dahlia cut the opposite figure of the Princess - wearing her crimson pilot suit, only the slightest vestiges of makeup applied, her features keen and her gaze steady. She would have cut an intimidating figure... were it not for the bundle of neon green fluff now sitting cheerfully atop her shoulders.

 

[MKR]

The princess couldn't help but stifle a laugh at the situation, this she was aware was far from the regular diplomatic event and to be naming the first find of a new species aboard Orphan well. Things had taken a turn for the weird even more. The name caught her attention, that of Dahlia not the suggestions made for the cutie. She had heard about her, it was unusual to stand next to her in a way especially considering the events that had transpired a little over a week ago but all the same the princess stepped forward, eyes moving to the green cushion atop the red decor.

"Come now, Spike isn't that bad." She replied, taking a moment to contemplate the options before her somewhere she just wanted to name it fluffy but the matter did call for a degree of professionalism "But how about something to commemorate the occasion? Hmmm. Oh, Magnolia!" In the language of flowers that meant Nobility and a love for nature. Something quite fitting for both the occasion and the liking it had taken to Dahlia.

"But it is simply a suggestion." She was however glad that this had eased tensions and calmed anxieties. "In the end however, it is your choice Dahlia regardless I would like it if you and our green friend here accompanied us for the time being. If that is okay with everyone?" She had a few questions she wanted to ask a pilot of a Gran Cher but those could wait for later. For now she was a nice way to keep the doctor from getting too nervous which in its own right was a worthy reason for her presence. Let alone the new species atop her head which also served from things getting too stale it seemed.
"Now then, Doctor Clint, you were saying regarding misrepresentation of the plates?"

It was however, time to return to the prior issues. The so called misrepresentation, she wondered what that was about.

 

[Nemesis]

"Of course... Pardon the departure. Come along please then, Dahlia."

Dr. Clint led the group onward. Dahlia paused, meeting the Princess's gaze - and nodded in affirmation at the suggestion. It seemed that was sufficient, and she turned to make her way back towards her Gran Cher before the Reclaimers' leader beckoned she follow, which she did, trailing the end of the group like the tail of a red salamander, keeping her thoughts to herself.

"As I was saying... The Plates are essential for Orphan's continued rise. Our brave Gran Cher pilots risk their lives every day retrieving them from seismic hotspots, and other areas of the Vital Net where they surface. As you know, Plates left unattended are at risk for causing massive havoc..."

Here, he led them into Orphan's massive, sprawling central area. Clear tubes rose up and down, and personnel could be seen moving back and forth on miniature plates within them, some craning to get a glimpse of the new arrivals.

"...and while it's true Orphan's movement is causing some seismic disturbances, we have reason to believe these will abate once it clears the ocean surface entirely."

Clint folded his arms behind him as they came to a seating area, pausing to allow any who preferred to sit and take in the vastness of Orphan's interior. The majesty of this great being that had descended to the planet for as of yet unknown reasons.

Their ark.

"All manner of unproven speculation has been circulated by the media, proclaiming that when Orphan leaves the atmosphere, it will siphon all the planet's organic energy, leaving it little more than a desiccated husk. This is nothing short of puerile conjecture, as slanderous and absurd as claiming the Earth is flat. While our research continues into the subject, we can at the very least debunk these absurd doomsday proclamations."

In the rear, Dahlia closed her eyes.

(...That's not entirely true, Doctor. There are many here hoping for just that outcome.)

Her fingers traced Magnolia's fur, thoughtfully, letting it nip gently at their tips. She'd have to find something else to feed them later on, she thought.

(If the planet and all its people were washed away, would that really be so bad?)

"In order to accelerate Orphan's departure and prevent any further loss of life, we must harvest the Plates more efficiently. I understand that the Empire has at its disposal a device capable of generating seismic reactions?"

Even Dahlia was slightly taken aback at the Doctor's straightforwardness - but he hadn't budged an inch, nor shown any signs of weakness. She had to wonder... Just what did he have in mind?

 

[MKR]

The princess and her entourage followed calmly, glad that Dahlia took a liking to the suggestion while Clint once more began speaking. "Yes I am aware of the damage inflicted by the plates across the western coast especially." She looked around the room, taking in the grand sight before her. It was like veins pumping around blood through one's body. A unique sight to see something so grand but still, the man's words were more important.

So a part of the recent seismic events were caused by Orphan's rise, their scientists has theorized as much but it was nice to have it confirmed. The princess chose to stand, taking a few paces around as the Doctor continued with his words. His final remarks caused her to pause. The entourage of knights suddenly tensing up as well in reaction.

"For many reasons, I am obliged to say 'no we do not have any such device'." The relations with Cascadia would shatter into fine dust if she were to confirm any such existence let alone the other nations. Britannia had a reputation, perhaps no perfect one but she was a civil one still. Lest the spacenoids opt to use a reputation against her.

"But- say that we did. I must ask if there is any proof to the contrary to the claims our media makes. Of course I can make arrangements for unproven claims to be halted within the day but I would not substitute them with other, equally unproven, claims Doctor." She took a step forwards. "As after all, until one fateful man found out the truth many scientists believed that diseases were being spread by 'bad air' in the old days. If you can disprove them fantastic that would go a long way to clearing the negative stigma of Orphan in our citizen's minds but it is something I would also have other, neutral, specialists look into."

She looked up to the great veins and the people moving through them.
"The price of being wrong, you understand, is rather severe so I hope you can forgive my caution Doctor." She turned back, facing the group. "After all, such a theoretical device must be used in service of Britannia and her people. Not to instigate a second cataclysm in three hundred years. One which, even should Orphan not vampirize the planet would leave our home ruined in its wake." She gave a smile, her eyes however staring straight.

"I believe it was one of your papers, that cautioned to not repeat such acts. To not tear asunder the environment once again." She moved closer to the group, giving a polite wave to one of the peeking groups. "They were an interesting read, I should say. But your own words today proved to me that we should not act in haste and instead heed caution, the harvesting of plates. If Orphan would join Britannia then yes we too would have interest in ensuring this task is performed efficiently and safely by say, preventing any future conflicts between the other Area's military forces and your own and instead ensuring cooperation."

She walked past the Doctor, towards Dahlia.
"Dahlia, might I get your opinion? Would it not be safer to prevent any further misunderstandings before we resort to any extreme measures? Plates would be left alone unless an expert is present who could then, safely, extract it."

 

[Nemesis]

"Of course. I would be happy to welcome a delegation of Britannian scientists to our laboratory here."

Clint clasped his hands together eagerly. The idea of inviting and skewering the arguments of his inferiors here, on his home turf instead of having to make arduous trips to the UN, just to have vague, insulting questions lobbed at him from a disinterested audience was too good to be true. He could already imagine the zingers, the viral comments he could make that would set the scientific community ablaze!

"The price of being wrong, you understand, is rather severe so I hope you can forgive my caution Doctor."

"Is it?" Said Dahlia suddenly.

She had listened to the rest of the woman's speech in near silence, not speaking unless spoken to - but there was something that she needed to address. Slowly she blinked, running her fingers through Magnolia's hair thoughtfully.

"My Lady. Do you think that the Britannian Empire is not itself full of suffering?."

Her tone was polite, yet strangely rigid... as if a set of heavy iron bars had been placed between her and the Princess, screening her true emotions from view. Whether the Princess was aware or not, the Geass buried in Dahlia's soul was fighting for control as emotions boiled to the surface. Her fingers paused their stroking, and she looked the royal in the eye.

"We hold that this suffering, this trauma, is in our genes. In our very being. Many of we, the Reclaimers, have suffered terribly in ways you could never imagine. Starvation. Sickness. Grief... If you walk these halls, there's no shortage of sad stories. Everyone here has lost something... And found Orphan."

The reverence with which her voice dripped when speaking its name was enough to send a chill down the spine of even the Doctor. He raised his voice, trying to perhaps arrest the girl's outburst - but his words failed him as she continued, dryly.

"Even if it were true... Even if this planet were turned to nothing but dust when we left? Many of us wouldn't miss it. I wouldn't."

She shook her head slowly, without breaking eye contact. Small wonder such a young girl had gotten such a powerful reputation, as she spoke with a cold firmness that would not have been out of place in the announcing of a Jihad - a holy war, in which glorious death and martyrdom awaited.

"I don't expect you to understand... But, we are willing to risk everything for our beliefs, and for Orphan."

 

[MKR]

The princess paused as Dahlia spoke, silence following from her own lips as the red suited pilot elaborated. As Dahlia spoke of the suffering and the trauma Louise squinted for a moment, as if she saw something in the distance but refused to explain or elaborate what it was she saw, especially not since it would interrupt Dahlia. The reverence in her tone, she could imagine such tones being used by her countrymen speaking of their nation.
"I think I understand. Not the finer details but the broad strokes."

She turned towards one of the walls, looking at it in a new light, as eye contact was finally broken "It can be wonderful, liberating, to after an age of suffering find somewhere where you can be home, be welcomed. Britannia is filled with suffering yes, any place where people live will be. Twice now, on mars and on earth have we proven to ourselves that a bid for supremacy is inevitable. When all are brought to equal footing there will be those who hold themselves higher- who raise themselves higher."

A step back, a grander picture of the innards of Orphan as the princess moved her gaze back to Dahlia, her body still turned towards the wall as her neck craned over. "And as such, there are those that need to be taken from. That are lowered, be it by comparison or by action. It is an act both animals and humans engage in, as natural as breathing out of our lungs."

"You say that sickness is in your genes, Britannia says you can surpass it. I do not intend to take away your loss, or lessen it. The pain you have felt, the days you went through without food or friendship. Those are real, clutch those." She turned to Dahlia, mimicking grabbing something and holding it to her chest. "But do not be consumed by them." With that said she stepped back from Dahlia towards the Doctor.

"Your conclusion, or perhaps your hope, that Orphan will take your genes into the cosmos is an understandable one. But would then your pain, your suffering, not also be brought with? Wherever you would turn that suffering would be there and in fact there would be no escape from it." She turned back to Dahlia one last time "I ask you to consider this, when I hear of your devotion to Orphan I can only help but see mirrors of our beloved knights talking about Britannia. I would never wish to take that love and deny you it."

"But Britannia would take that suffering, that pain that fills these halls." She raised her arms up to the air, as if beckoning God itself to descend from the heavens "And it would forge it into strength, into more, so you may rise with head held high." Her head turned to Dr. Clint "And once it is proven, so that Orphan may rise with your heads held high and a nation in salute."

Her arms dropped, she stepped towards the Doctor again.
"Doctor Clint, as Orphan's first citizen I believe it would be your signature that should adorn the paper we have brought with us." She snapped her finger and from the procession one of the knights came forward with a suitcase. Louise stepped to it and clicked it open, stepping aside to let the man look inside to see the legal parchment. Upon it, one signature in elaborate handwriting already present. Alexandros zi Britannia.

"By signing this Orphan and all associated territories will be incorporated into Britannia as Area 12. I would suggest taking a moment to study the documents, however nothing should be out of the ordinary. However information like the maximum garrison size relative to population, incorporation of existing forces into the Britannian military, appointment of a Viceroy and access to Honorary Britannian citizenship available to all citizens of the Area are all in there."

She stepped away from the suitcase.
"And as I promised, the loving embrace of the Holy Empire would protect Orphan."

 

[Vicus Reginus]

The creature looked on blankly with its beady eyes as it was christened, however after a short moment its central eye began to glow as if in response and the newly named Magnolia settled back into its pinkish perch. It appeared to be somewhat attentive of the conversation moving forward, moving its little head back and forth between those speaking. Magnolia grew tired at a point and flattened itself out once more but just as it did it perked back up, tapping its tail carelessly against the back of Dahlia's head lightly. Even as Dahlia voiced her response to the princess, Magnolia remained alert for something.

What?

...

Connect?

Connect....

Connect.

The subtle fluttering of Orphan's insides rapidly increased in frequency in a spot of one of the walls, then suddenly ceasing before clattering and clapping loudly. Two red lights seem to glow from the darkness between the wafers, shifting back and forth as if in observation. With a resounding smack, a large tan and green form slithered out and fell with a thud onto the floor. It appeared as if a giant crab had made its way inside, eyes on stalks peering about underneath a wide carapace. At least, that was until it began to rise from the ground.

On two legs the large creature rose just taller than a grown man, a long tail lashing behind it. With two crimson, glowing eyes it stared in the direction of the official procession.

​

 

[Nemesis]

"You think your plithy nationalism-"

Dahlia's eyes narrowed, and there was the distinct sense that the psychic bars were being rattled louder than ever. Aggression at the woman's nerve, thinking that a mere country could compare to Orphan, was infuriating. Even so, Dr. Clint rose his voice sharply as he read through the documents he was presented, carefully.

"Dahlia." He said, "That's enough. You've made your point."

With the stroke of a pen, the deal was struck. Dr. Clint handed the papers back, and met Dahlia's withering gaze. He understood her rage, her fury - but an opportunity like this was not something the Reclaimers could ignore. After all, hadn't it been her suggestion first? There was a staredown, as he refused to give way - and eventually, the conditioning reasserted itself. Dahlia's eyes flicked back to the Princess... and they were calm.

But only on the surface.

"...Pardon my rudeness. My lady." She said, softly.

"Thank you."

Dr. Clint sighed, and shook his head. He wasn't a fighter at heart - still, after all this time, just a scientist. His objective was to find a way to preserve the world and its people. Maybe, he thought, it was time he took some of that power back from the more destructive members in their ranks.

"...as you can see, Orphan holds a special place in our hearts. In time, I believe it will for you as well, Princess."

Now, with Dahlia subdued, he thought, they could get on to the main attraction he'd prepared: a Resurrection, just for the Princess. Timing the Plate's emergence had been no small feat, but he was already looking forward to it. A new golden age was dawning for the Reclaimers - he could feel it in his bones. As soon as this unusual optimism arose - it was suddenly quelled, as there was a short, wet thud nearby.

"What...?"

The surrounding Reclaimers regarded the green object in abject silence. It was only as it began to rise on its hind legs that some started backing away uncertainly. Its beady red eyes swiveled about, glowing even under the floodlights installed in Orphan's interior for the occasion, its green carapace like some colossal crustacean. Part of Clint was fascinated - not one, but two breakthrough discoveries in one day!

But another part of him knew somehow, that something was wrong. An unexplained anxiety curdling in his stomach as he felt himself step, as if unwilling, between the Princess and the monster. Dahlia too was rooted to the spot, staring wildly at the thing, holding Magnolia close to her chest protectively as beads of sweat began to run down her neck.

Connecting? She thought - was she just hearing things, again? Her head pounded, her throat was dry as adrenaline started to drip into her system.

All of Orphan was starting to come alive around them.

 

[MKR]

The Princess' gaze fell on Dahlia as pen touched paper, afterwards the briefcase was closed again and its contents secured. Within the briefcase the mechanism already starting, making a photocopy and sending it to the mainland.
"And with that, Orphan is now part of Britannia as the new Area 12." Louise stated, "You all can consider yourselves proud Twelves, citizens of Britannia and I give you my wholehearted congratulations and welcome." She gave a short applause to those in attendance, the knights joining her.

Then she turned to Dahlia again. Her tone shifting away from formal for a moment.
"I understand your devotion, this once I will forgive the outburst. As I would not have the first day in our loving embrace, the first act of the crown aboard Orphan be a reprimand for insubordination." Her attention turned to the side, as the other clapping was heard. The thud following shortly after. By Clint's reaction this too was something unusual.

"What, is that?" She asked, knowing full well no answer would be given. The entourage joining the doctor, stepping between the princess and the crustacean even putting themselves in front of Clint. Only the knight holding the briefcase not joining the protective wall. The red lights from its face were unnerving the princess found. Was Orphan reacting to their presence? Or if Doctor Clint's assessment of parasites was correct for Magnolia? Were species in Orphan, between its plates, waking after their arrival?

"Doctor, I understand you have individuals proficient in handling unusual animals." The fact they had Biozoids indicated as much "Now would be a good time to call one over so that we may continue without too many distractions and the... crustacean? Can be secured."
The first new species had the courtesy to be cute, this one was an uncomfortable interruption but it didn't seem hostile yet. Meaning capture was possible so that they could continue onwards. Regardless her patience for these interruptions was beginning to wear thin.

 

[Vicus Reginus]

The tall, chitinous creature slowly walked forward, its hard limbs clattering against the floor with each step. Suddenly it stopped, its eye stalks darting around quickly.

Connect quickly.

Connect!

The "crab" renewed its pace with force and began to run towards the group, much to the fright of anyone still in its path. The creature brought its tail up in front of it, lashing it about to push anyone in its way. As it neared the group, it became clear the creature intended to get to Dahlia first.

The red eye on Magnolia glowed with a similar light to the approaching entity, the small one craning itself out and flapping its tail against the pink haired pilot.

Connect! Listen!

Aimo, young.

Aimo!

Magnolia hopped up quickly, the furry thing rapidly descending Dahlia and skittering down her arm before leaping out to the approaching creature with a wild squeak.

 

[Nemesis]

"P-Princess!"

Dr. Clint ineffectually attempted to bar the creature's advance - and for his efforts felt the impact of the thick, chitinous tail in his stomach, swatting him aside, and sending him sprawling to the ground, just trying to breathe. His glasses were crunched underfoot by the thing's feet as Magnolia leaped from Dahlia's arms, slipping between her fingers as she'd shrunk back in uncharacteristic, yet understandable fear.

"H-Hey!" She cried as the little bundle of neon green fled her grasp. On instinct her feet propelled her forward after it. A kind of desperation she'd never felt before, overriding all fear. In that instant, somehow-

(...Aimo?)

---

Eighteen years ago.
An unhappy home.
1:08 AM

The scent of cigarettes, of scotch on the air. The cheap kind. No matter how hard she tried these days, she thought, she could never get it out - like it had seeped into her very soul. She could still hear the door slam ringing in her ears. Replaying the fight in her mind, over and over. What she should have said, what she could have said... all for nothing.

Catalina Merlot was hunched over her piano, head in hand. Music sheets were scattered at her feet, crumpled and torn. Rejection after rejection. She had been a fool to even try. But was better than being back in the service. Better than being a murderer again. Even being told you were washed up, that your looks just wouldn't sell - anything, not to get in a cockpit ever again.

But she was running out of options. Out of money. Out of time. Her mind ran in circles, feeling as if she were circling some sort of drain-

Until a tiny voice made itself known.

"Mama?"

Slowly, she put out the cigarette, and looked to her side. Rose peered back at her from around the door, clutching protectively a well-loved teddy-bear. She regarded her daughter wearily, unsure of what to say.

"Did you have a fight?" Said Rose, timidly.

Slowly, Catalina nodded as the infant drifted forward, uncertain of reprisal, but seeking warmth and certainty. Catalina reached out, and touched her hair, pushing it out of her round, innocent features. She'd spent so many years hoping for a child... and now she had one, she didn't know what to do, or how to act. Rose waited with endless patience, pink pajamas swaying gently in the breeze from the AC.

"...when you're older, you'll understand. Just... go back to bed." Catalina said, quietly.

As she turned back to her work, scribbling away... she felt the girl linger, as she lifted and tilted the contents of the whisky bottle. Rose said finally, quiet as a whisper:

"I can't sleep."

"Why's that?"

"...The Invaders will get me."

Catalina paused, a glass half raised to her lips. She eyed the murky, oily surface of its contents... and, for the first time in a long, long while, set it aside. She gestured to the seat of the piano beside her, shifting to make room.

"Come here."

Gently shaking with excitement, Rose scrambled up, sitting attentively as her eyes ran over the piano. She'd never been permitted to touch it, but she knew what beautiful sounds it was capable of. Catalina picked gingerly through the messy leaves of paper, before eventually settling on an old, hurriedly scrawled piece, setting it in front of the two of then.

"I wrote this when I was sick..." She said, quietly. "...a long time ago."

"When you were a soldier?"

Catalina nodded solemnly, as her fingers pressed the first keys.

"...When I fought the Invaders, yes." She continued, gently.

"They're never coming back. I promise. Now... close your eyes."

Rose did so obediently, letting her head fall onto her lap. The older woman exhaled, clearing her mind...

And began to sing.

"Aimo, aimo

neder rushe

noina miria

ender prodea

fotomi..."​

---

The Present

(Aimo...)

There was a lump in her throat, Dahlia realized. There wasn't any time to address it - she had to do what she could. Had to save it. In a flash, the utility knife from her pilot suit's belt was drawn - and, whirling expertly in her grip, slashed out at the only soft flesh she could see: the "crab"s glowing eyes.

Meanwhile, in the distance...

The bright red Gran Cher on its podium tilted its head up, as if heeding an unseen signal, and turned in the direction of the group, rising from its seat as engineers scattered in surprise at its feet. Its gnarled left hand began to twitch as it began to feel out the location of its symbiotic partner, homing in on her fear, her anxiety... and preparing to strike.

 

[MKR]

Half the knights were sent away like a bowling ball struck pins, crashing into the floor and pushing themselves up quickly with pained grunts. For her part the Princess stepped away slowly, fearfully looking as people fell in front of her. What did that thing want, studies and classes partially flowing back as memories as she tried to make sense of the being in front of her. Front facing eyes, a predator? Then what was it hunting, them?

It however, seemed uninterested in most of the humans except- Dahlia. At that time Magnolia leapt forward, or was it hunting Magnolia? Everything was happening so quickly, she just couldn't keep up! Dahlia ran after the green creature that had rested atop her and the Princess' eyes went wide. What was she thinking.
"Watch out!" At this point she felt the surface under her vanish, one of her guards having picked her up and now carrying her to relative safety. A second going to the Doctor and pulling him to his feet.

She couldn't stop watching but she also couldn't watch, it was twisted in that sense as the scene unfolded. What manner of creature had that sort of natural strength and she willingly threw herself at it. Was it foolishness, desperation? And yet she could do nothing but watch. A thought passed by, she would prefer boring political visits to things this... Anxiety inducing.

Though from her vantage point she could see one thing, a Gran Cher rising up. She had seen that one before somewhere and with how it was reacting. Well if anything, this could be used to get the Gran Chers some positive reputation.