Virtually Real Part 28: Explosions

Returning Characters

Prowl-Ar

Kyle

Shock

Frost

Tuft

Tank

Commander Aaron Knight

Lance Knight

Fallow Base Commander

Kicker

Lee

Slider

Shadow

Phantom

Djinn

Captain Shades

Captain Mærik

Badlands

Paradise

Hardline

We stood outside Commander Knight's door. I'd already stopped at the VR computer core and made the required changes.

"Are you going to let him know we're here, or are you going to think of some other reason to put off this meeting?" Kyle asked.

I hit the buzzer and a few seconds later Aaron opened the door.

"Captain, just how much trouble is Lance in?"

"Uh, huh?" I asked in confusion.

"He came in earlier, avoided looking at me, went straight to his room and locked the door. It's a pattern he has when he's feeling guilty and doesn't want to admit it."

"Mr. Knight-" Kyle started.

"Please call me Aaron, and I hope whatever has happened isn't going to jeopardize our being able to stay here."

"Aaron, I only hope you still feel that way after I tell you what I inadvertently stumbled into this morning." We all sat and listened to Kyle describe the scene again.

"You actually expect me to believe that?" Aaron asked.

"Silverbolt, at any time during my description did I lie or embellish what I witnessed?"

"One moment, Sir. I'm checking scans now."

We waited several seconds.

"No, from all indications you were telling the truth. Also now that Commander Nightiger has fixed the problem and I am able to connect with the VR computer. If Commander Knight requires proof he can see for himself. Prowl-Ar has set it up so that you now have full oversight of your son's activities."

"Show me." Aaron stoically watched several seconds of the video before dropping the pad on the table. "This is all my fault."

"How do you figure that?" Shock asked.

"When he came out I couldn't accept it. Sure I pretended that I was fine and I tried to be supportive, but then Angela came out as well. Even though we supposedly live in enlightened times I just couldn't believe it. It drove my wife and me apart. I started drowning my problems at the bar. One night I had too much and said too much to the wrong people. The next night my life ended."

"The men that caused your wife's 'accident' overheard you and decided to take care of your problems?" I guessed.

"I didn't even realize I was at fault until after their mock trial, since I refused to leave Lance's side. It was because of my guilt that I've dedicated my life to justice for those who are being persecuted. Still, I knew it would never be enough when I saw the look on Lance's face when I told him about his mother and sister. He blames me-".

"Stop right there. I see where you're going with this. I really doubt this is some attempt to get even with you. In fact it likely has nothing to do with you at all. From what I can tell, this is a young man exploring his sexuality. However, instead of stealing your erotic magazines or experimenting with his mother's vibrator he had access to the VR chamber where he was able to take his exploration far beyond the normal limits." I pointed out.

"Are you telling me a teenager servicing four adults is just exploration?"

"All I'm saying is you should have a conversation with your son concerning his feelings. Yes, it's going to be uncomfortable and embarrassing for both of you, but you've had several years to come to terms with his sexuality. While it is still new and likely somewhat confusing for him."

Aaron sighed, "How would you deal with this?"

"Honestly, I'm not sure. However both Mark and Frost were also involved. The Redfields are dealing with a similar situation." I sighed, “As soon as we’re finished here we’ll be having our own conversation with our son.”

"I should point out that the chamber was divided so even though they were all involved in similar situations they weren't aware what the others were doing and we've been careful not to reveal unneeded information on the other kids." Kyle said.

"For Frost we're going to have a conversation about how he should have known better than to set up such a simulation and we'll come up with some punishment for that. We'll also discuss the sexual aspect, but we're not going to punish him for it." I said.

"Just as a hypothetical what if Lance does something like this again on his own?"

"That is up to you to deal with. You now have full oversight of all his VR activities until he's sixteen."

"So if I decided that I'm fine with his activities?" Aaron asked.

"Unless Silverbolt believes there is a problem which will affect the station all private VR simulations can be locked to everyone other than the user, and now in the case of minors their guardian. However, the user has to tell the computer to lock the program to private mode, something that I've neglected to tell Frost. Once the program is locked to private mode it won't even show up in game file searches." I explained.

"You also should know that the VR chamber is a much safer way to explore one's sexuality, especially concerning Lance's experimentation, than attempting such acts with random strangers or even crew members." Shock added.

"You've given me a lot to think about, but right now I think the first thing I need to do is let my son know that, while I'm not happy, I still love him no matter what."

I smiled. "That sounds like a good place to start. Now if you'll excuse us, we need to go and speak with our own son.

***

Frost was sitting in my chair and the three of us sat on the couch. He was shaking and I could smell his fear even in my human form. Before I even realized it I stood up, stepped around the coffee table, and knelt down in front of the chair. Frost had shrunk back, but I pulled him into a hug. "Frost, son, no matter what you do, or how upset we may be, I want you to know that you are safe and never have to fear us, I promise."

Both Kyle and Shock gasped.

"I never thought I'd hear him say it like that." Mahan muttered. "I need to mark down this date."

"Oh, so you're back online?" Kyle growled.

"Deal with that later, Drake. Frost, do you know why you're in trouble?" I asked.

Frost twitched and looked away, "Because I was doing something bad."

"And what was the bad thing?"

"Sex." He whispered.

"And why is that bad?"

"Because only a male and female should do that when they want to have offspring."

Kyle groaned and Shock giggled. I gave them a dirty look before turning back to Frost. I stared at him for several seconds. Trying to collect my thoughts. "What makes you think that?"

"Because, I saw humans doing it. I asked Char and he told me what they were doing and I was bad for watching them. He was very angry and refused to even appear for two seasons."

"Kyle told us how he found you. Did you like it? Did it feel bad?" Shock asked.

"I uh-" Frost hid his face and mumbled something.

"I missed that." I said leaning closer.

"I said the only way I could be with a female was if I had another male, helping me. Even then it didn't feel right, it wasn't bad, just not enjoyable. I'm a freak that can't even have real sex!" Frost yelled, as he started to cry.

"It's okay, you're not a freak. You just prefer being with other males. There's nothing wrong with that." I reassured him.

"But Char said-"

"Char doesn't live here in the real world like you do." Shock growled. "Did you think that we're mates in name only? What is important is that you don't force yourself to do things that make you feel wrong."

"Frost, what you're in trouble for is involving Mark and Lance, not because you were caught having sex. We discussed it and came to the conclusion that if you want to explore your sexuality in VR that's fine, however there are going to be some rules you have to remember." I said.

"First, even though we both originated in VR worlds, you have to remember that it isn't real. I know it's going to be difficult to remember but the characters don't have real feelings or ability to form attachments like us. I know that seems like I'm lying, but I'm not. In my case my Tiger had feelings for me before he entered my world and Mahan upgraded me to-" Kyle glanced at me with a worried look, "A level four AI without authorization."

"He what? When?" I asked.

Mahan had set five levels to AI. First level was standard NPCs, second level were self-aware enough to go off scrip and act as though they were player characters. Third level could develop feelings and think for themselves. Fourth level, could interact outside the virtual world and were fully self-aware to the point where, I'd agreed with Mahan, to consider them real individuals. Mahan, Tank and Tuft were all fourth level. Level fives were those that took the final step and traded software for wetware, or biological bodies like Kyle and Frost.

"It was obvious you weren't going to confess your true feelings so I upgraded him to third level at Junon Harbor. Didn't you think it a bit strange that he wanted you to help him blend in onboard the ship or for that matter showing up in your room at the Gold Saucer when Cloud and Aerith were on their date, even though that wasn't scripted? I took him to level four just before you accompanied him to see his father. That's why I was able to void your order to erase the game."

"At fourth level doing so would be murder." I mumbled.

"Correct. Frost, you were increased to second level at the inn, third when you fell asleep and Prowl-Ar carried you, that's why you started having dreams, and fourth level that night by the stream. However, I will not be doing that again. I agreed with Prowl-Ar that there would be no more AI's after Kyle, but a computer glitch created Tuft and Tank, and a programing oversight led to your character creation. I was trying to isolate and fix the problem when Prowl-Ar realized you were Kyle's son. Even though I have all of his memories I was surprised at his need to protect you. However, all those problems have been dealt with so no more AI's above level two can be created in VR again."

I rolled my eyes "Basically what we're saying is don't develop feelings while you're learning what makes you feel good. The second rule is you can only engage in that type of program here on the Runner."

"That means no more getting others into trouble with their parents." Kyle quickly pointed out.

"Did they, uh, do something bad?"

I could feel Kyle wanting to say yes, instead he sat there quietly leaving me to answer. "They were doing similar things as you, however every family has different ideas on what makes good parenting. It is up to their parents to deal with their involvement."

"But I'm the one-"

"Frost, before you say anything else you should know your fathers won't like it if you lie, even to protect the others. That is likely why they haven't asked who suggested creating the program." Mahan interrupted.

"Now we come to the punishment. For the next month you can only use the VR chamber if you are playing one of our games. After that month you'll be able to freely use the VR here on your own, but from now on Silverbolt will closely monitor your games when playing on the station. That's it other than having to suffer the embarrassment of having Lance and Mark's parents knowing all three of you were screwing around."

Shock tried to turn the laugh, at my phrasing, into a cough.

"Um, can I go now? I- I think I want to be alone to think for a little bit." Frost asked.

"Yeah, that's fine." I hugged him again and kissed him on his forehead. "Listen, just one last thing, well maybe two. If you ever have any questions about anything, no matter how embarrassing, I want you to know that you can ask us and we'll give you as honest an answer as we can. We love you and no matter what happens we always will.

He immediately returned the hug holding me for nearly a minute before hugging Kyle and finally Shock. He stepped back and looked at all of us.

"I- I love all of you. I only hope Mark and Lance don't get upset with me if their punishment is worse than mine."

"It's not like you have to tell anybody about your punishment. If they complain just keep quiet like your punishment was so bad you don't want to talk about it." Shock said.

"Isn't that lying?"

"As long as you don't say anything it is their own imagination lying to them, not you." I winked and Frost smiled as he turned and headed for his room.

Once his door shut Shock turned on me. "You are such a horrible parent."

"I beg to differ. Not once did I rant about how his actions embarrassed me. I didn't tell him he was a complete disappointment. I didn’t tell him that if he didn't start acting better I'd really punish him." I started shaking. "I might not be perfect, but at least I'm not like my own father."

Kyle hugged me tightly. "Shock-"

Shock hugged me as well. "I know, I regretted saying it immediately. Tiger, I'm sorry. I didn't even think it might be a trigger. I know you’re not . . . not what I said. Of course you're not that. I can be really dumb sometimes. I was just trying to point out you really shouldn't be teaching Frost how to lie without actually telling a lie. It doesn't make you, what I said, but it wouldn't win you a best parenting award either."

"I know you didn't mean it. I'm just, broken is all. I really don't understand why you-".

"Tiger, stop. We love you. You don't have to be perfect, you just have to be yourself, problems and all."

"Kyle's right. If you weren't the way you are you wouldn't empathize with other's problems the way you do. Besides, I told you it was the broken haunted look in your eyes that made me fall in love with you, since it was the same look I see when I look in the mirror. We've all had difficult lives-" Shock stopped short. "Frost gets the same look every once in a while, which I guess makes sense."

"I just want to try to keep that look from completely replacing the bright joy filled look he gets when he looks at us when he thinks we're not looking. That unconditional love for his parents and life that was, for the most part, beaten out of us." I could feel Kyle's tears falling.

Shock gave a little whine as he also started crying. "I thought I was the only one who might have noticed that innocent look."

We just sat there holding each other until Mahan warned us, a couple of hours later that Frost was asking him if it would be too soon to talk to us about continuing our game.

***

I unhooked my pad and leaned back against the blue Infantry suit's head. After a week, game time, we'd cleared away the debris and bomb components. Now my final check cleared Frost's suit of any tampering. Whoever installed the bomb either decided rigging the suit would be overkill, or more likely was long gone when the suit was loaded and the crate sealed.

"Dad, I mean Commander, does it check out?"

I slowly started climbing down the scaffolding. "It's clear of traps and the upgraded armor survived. Well, most of it the faceplate was completely destroyed."

"That's fine, I didn't really like the upgrade mask anyway. What about my weapons?"

I laughed at that. "I'm guessing the standard infantry plasma blaster with replicas of Drake's arm blades as twin bayonets was another gift from Shades?"

"Must have been. What about the beam rifle?"

"Damaged but I think the techs will be able to repair it."

"Will I be able to modify my suit like Drake has?"

"You're going to have to earn a lot more game points for that kind of upgrade." I jumped as the warning sirens went off. "Frost, suit up and join up with Fox and Drake." I glanced at my hangar where the Elite suit hung without legs, and in Drake's hangar my enhanced suit was stripped down to the inner frame. "Let Drake know he is acting unit commander. I'm headed for the tower to direct all the units."

Frost passed me as he scrambled up the scaffolding at nearly twice the rate I had been descending. "Show off." I mumbled as I hit the ground and headed for the tower.

As I entered the control room the Commander started yelling. "I told you not to disassemble both of those suits."

"Yes Sir, you were right Sir. What is the current situation?" I asked.

"Three shuttles inbound from the other base, that traitor Shades coming in hot, the Indigo Flame setting down at the medical outpost, and the Bad Luck lurking out there asking for you to confirm whether or not it's safe to land."

"The Flame and Bad Luck were expected. Captain Mærik has more equipment for Badlands. Tank has the custom legs for my elite suit. Shades is likely on a run for-"

"Sir, the Lawless just landed here."

I rolled my eyes. "Patch me through. Shades, this isn't a good time. We've got a situation brewing that you don't want to be a part of. Bug out to the hunting camp until further notice."

"Understood."

"The Lawless is lifting off."

"Contact the Indigo Flame." I ordered.

"Captain Mærik is on."

"Captain, we have a situation developing. I suggest you go to full security lockdown until things have settled."

"Wildside, what the hell is going on now?" Badland’s yelled.

"Commander, we have at least three heavy shuttles approaching from the secondary base. The last time we had dealings with them they tried to usurp my command and steal all our suits. As of right now I'm turning the medical and maintenance outpost over to your command." The Commander replied.

"Sabers, you heard the Base Commander. Button up and be prepared to repel anyone you don't trust." Badland’s ordered Mærik before the link cut off.

"Sir, with your permission, I'd like to contact Tank and keep him in reserve if we need support." I asked the Commander.

"What kind of help do you expect from that flying turtle?"

"Sir, the Bad Luck might not look it but it had a very nasty bite." I replied.

"Sir! We’re picking up a garbled transmission from the shuttles." The communications officer alerted us.

"Let's hear it." The Commander ordered.

"Fal . . . in . . . ase dest . . . surv . . . ical."

"Is the flight team in the air?" I asked,

"They're nearly in range."

"Shadow, what do you see?" I asked.

"Bugs. An undocumented flying type. They look like wasps. The shuttles are heavily damaged, should we engage?"

"Engage! Blow them out of the sky! Lead them back here to the main base. We'll show them what we're made of." The Commander yelled

I moved to a second terminal and contacted all the pilots. "All units, we have a new bug type. Shadow's team have named them Wasps. They are attacking three damaged shuttles. Prepare yourselves for ground to air combat. Watch your shots we don't want to take out any allies." Next I re-contacted Mærik. "Flame, the enemy are new flying bugs called wasps. Keep an eye on the sky and light them up if they reach the outpost. Prowl-Ar out." Next on my list was Badlands.

"Wildside, what is going on?"

"Hey Hardline, we've got a new bug type giving us some trouble. A flying type we're calling Wasps. Just thought you'd want a heads up. I know how the team loves studying new things."

"Son-of-a, Commander, this is Phantom. I just got up close with a Wasp. These things are cyber enhanced like the dinos. They may be insects but they're not Bugs. Oh shit, they're swarming! There has to be hundreds of them. Sir, I don't think we're going to survive this one."

"Commander, I want full spectrum broadcast, all channels."

"You're up to something again."

"Yes I am."

"Do it."

"All channels are open.” The communications officer announced.

“Everyone listening to this broadcast. Shut down. If you're in the air, land now. Shadow, Phantom, and Djinn get those shuttles out of the air. Shoot out their engines if you have to. Go dark now! Tuft, I'm asking you to bring the darkness."

"Let's get Medieval!" Tuft yelled.

"Everyone, I say again shut it all down. Pull the plug, remove the batteries, and go dark. I've just authorized a planet wide massive electromagnetic pulse."

"Sir, Phantom is in the clear, and the shuttles are down. We're on the ground doing our best to provide cover fire. Not going to last long. We're going to keep fighting until our suits go dead. Don't take too long to get out here and rescue us. Shadow team out."

"Hunt camp locked down, I'm pulling the Lawless' power core now." Shades announced.

"This is Medical outpost the Hospital's power supply is shielded but we don't have any patients so we are shutting down.”

"Indigo Flame, out."

"Exploration Team research center, offline."

"Sir, I'm showing all base structures other than the tower are now shut down."

"Prowl-Ar, we're making our run, but you might want to tell that military over watch ship to shut down. Starting countdown 20."

"Over watch, power down."

"Yeah, you expect us to believe this hoax?"

"Fifteen."

"You willing to sacrifice your lives on the slim chance it's a hoax, fine Fallow Base shutting down.

"Ten."

The screen went dark. "Power's off, how long do we wai- Holy Shit!"

The sky transformed into a planet wide aurora as the EMP wave hit. "Sir, permission to be excused. I need to go and begin organizing a rescue. We'll be able to turn the power back on when the lightshow ends."

"Get going, we've got pilots trapped in their suits."

I nodded and headed out. I stopped in my hangar and pulled out a heavily shielded case.

"Tiger, how soon before can we restart the suits?" Drake asked.

"When the lightshow moves into the green and blue spectrum. Where's Fox?"

"He was headed for our quarters to make sure everything was shut down."

"Are Slider and Lee still up there as well?"

"They'd better be." Drake answered.

"Come on, there's something we've got to do." We met Fox as he was coming back down and I had him follow us. I stopped outside Lee's door. I knocked but the only answer was a groan. I forced the door open. Lee was in the bunk unconscious and Slider had nearly made it to the door, now he was on the floor barely able to move. I shifted, picked Slider up and set him on the bunk with Lee. "Drake, go watch the sky. As soon as there are no more hints of yellow get back in here."

He nodded and took off.

"What's going on?" Slider groaned.

"The EMP killed our nanites."

"Is that even possible?" Fox asked.

I gave Fox a look. "Oh, right we're in better condition because of our ability to shift gives us heightened stamina."

"Correct, but that won't last for much longer." I patted the case. "This case contains samples from each of us, just in case, however I can't risk opening it until the pulse has-"

"It's green, no matter what form I take there are no hints of yellow." Kyle said, as he came back in.

"I opened the case, took out the first vial, and injected Drake.

"And that was?" He asked.

"Pause game. Technically it didn't even happen. I'm just keeping to the game rules."

Kyle nodded, and I resumed the game. "New nanites, since the old ones were destroyed by the pulse." I injected Fox, "Now go and start organizing the rescue mission." Next I injected Lee followed by Slider and myself.

Slider opened his eyes. "I think it’s working I'm feeling better."

"Give it ten minutes and you'll be back on your feet. The new nanites are designed to repair the old ones."

"How long?" Lee asked, as he opened his eyes.

"Ten minutes." I replied.

"No, how long will this set back our recovery?"

"How have you been feeling?" I asked.

"If anything a bit better than before my accident. At least, until that attack."

"You need to fill me in here, because I'm missing something." I said.

"The Doctor may have released him from the hospital but he required strict bed rest and no strenuous activity." Slider answered.

I looked at the floor and shook my head. "So you've been in bed all this time?"

Lee blushed. "Well no, I have moved around a little bit. Mostly to go to the latrine."

I wanted to laugh, I really did, and instead I looked directly at Lee and told him the truth. "You were fully healed within twenty-four hours. The Doctor doesn't know anything about your physical condition any longer. Hell, you should be pushing yourself to exercise more. Your nanites are fueled through movement. The more they circulate the more efficient they become."

"Then why did you authorize a full week for medical recovery?" Slider asked.

I stood for a moment with my mouth hanging open. "That was so the two of you could get physical together."

"Wait, you arranged for us to . . ." Slider went silent, but turned bright red.

Lee started laughing. "We've been suppressing our needs because the Doctor said no physical activity, and this whole time we were supposed to be gettin' jiggy with it?”

“Going to pound town." I replied.

"Making like rabbits?" Slider added.

"Yiffing like foxes." They both looked at me and I knew I’d screwed up.

"Ooo, tell us about it! No really we want to hear all about Foxes."

"Yeah, we've still got two days left." Slider grinned.

"Why waste it on stories when we can start a few rumors of our own?" Lee said conspiratorially.

"Not to be a cock blocker, but your medical leave is canceled. We’ve got three downed shuttles, Shadow's team out there in need of rescue, and I'm not going out there without my sniper and heavy ordinance."

"Yes Sir, but you owe us two days." Slider said, as the lights flashed and then came on.

"Looks like the power's back on. Get to your suits." I ordered.

I grabbed a headset from my quarters and contacted the tower. This is Tiger, contact Kicker and tell him to prepare to move out."

"Who'll fill in for Lee and Slider?" Kicker radioed.

"No substitutions, I'm clearing both to return to active duty."

"Wildside, we’ve got the Dragonfly up with a rescue module attached. Paradise and Skyfall are headed for your pilot's last known position."

"Thanks Badlands, let Paradise know the most important thing will be breaking the suit's seals so that the pilots can breathe. Extricating them is of secondary concern.

"Prowl, I just delivered a flight type suit and pilot to the hunting camp. He's willing to assist for the right price."

"Shades! Tell your pilot that his payment is his life because if he doesn't assist I will personally execute him. Do you have any cargo for this base?"

"Not on this run. I'm actually here to-"

"Drop your current load and rig for emergency transport. I don't know the story behind the shuttles but we need to get them to safety. Your pilot friend can provide cover for you."

"I'm on it." She replied.

"Major, this is Captain Mærik, I have two aircraft and two tank units. They are designed to interact with enhanced and elite system suits, however they can also function as independent units."

"Command, do we have anyone with aircraft pilot training?"

"According to the files only three pilots are available."

I sighed and switched to my team channel. "Fox and Drake, get to the medical outpost. Change of plans, you're taking the new aircraft and flying cover for the rescue. Frost, you're with me."

"Understood, we're on our way."

I switched back to the command channel. "I'm sending Drake and Fox to the hospital Outpost. They'll take the fighters and fly cover."

"Major, we need you in your hangar. We've gotten the right leg on and we're unpacking the left but you're still going to need to recalibrate your suits systems."

"Tuft? Is that you?" I asked.

"Of course it's me. We followed the pulse down in order to deliver your upgrade parts. I figured I'd help the techs prep your suit while Tank goes and sees about rescuing survivors."

I entered the hangar and gasped. I knew the new leg units would make my suit look bigger but I wasn't fully prepared for the full effect.

Tuft strolled over. "I have to say it's pretty damn impressive. Almost as good as Drake's upgrades."

"Yeah well, I'm still looking for the right parts. Though the new feet are going to be a vast improvement over the Elite's high heels."

"Yeah and that retractable blade in the toes is a cute little addition."

"Standard part of that foot unit, though I did have to get them custom painted."

"About that, why have solid black legs with the rest of the suit being dark gray?"

"MAS hasn't produced a black Elite suit, yet. Once they do I'll replace the dark gray parts with black."

"Sir, everything is in place, but you need to calibrate everything before we lock it down."

I grinned as I glanced at Tuft, "You know what, we happen to have a spare suit at the moment." I activated my mike, "Commander, I'm conscripting a civilian to temporarily fill the open spot on my team. He's an expert with both plasma and beam weapons so I'll be borrowing your heavy beam cannon, for this mission only."

"You owe me."

"Sir, that's what everyone keeps saying. At this rate I might not make it back."

"He'll make it back and we'll cover any debts he can't." There was a roar of jet engines as Drakes suit set down. "Tiger, they weren't kidding these fighters can be quickly rigged to just about any suit. We're topping off our tanks and then heading out to provide air cover."

"That's not what I ordered, but it still works. Frost! Get over here and escort Tuft to the white Elite suit."

"I never agreed!" Tuft yelled.

"You do want to make sure Tank doesn't get into trouble, right?"

"That emotional blackmail! Somebody show me where this infernal suit is at."

"Tuft! Over here!" Frost yelled, as I headed for the lift to my cockpit.

***

I pounded on the hip joint in frustration. Our progress was already slow due to the jungle, but with the hip joint on my suit freezing up, progress had stopped. We were nearly at to the shuttles so I sent Kicker's team ahead. Tuft and Frost both refused to leave me unprotected. I'd crawled into the joint, not a safe thing to do in controlled circumstances, and discovered several bolts hadn't been properly tightened. What was even more irritating was the fact that they were only required for the standard leg units. I went ahead and tightened two of them down, since it was faster than removing them, but a third had rattled out and jammed in the mechanism. I crawled out and waved at Tuft. "I need you to lift the upper torso and then hold the suit upright."

"What is the problem?" He asked.

"I've got a rouge bolt that's come loose and jammed in the gear. I need the weight taken off the leg so that maybe I'll be able to dislodge it."

"No."

"What?" I yelled.

The white suit knelt down and Tuft climbed out. "I said no. You do it while I fix your suit. I've downloaded the specs, so I know what needs to be done. If I lose some fingers or an arm they can be easily replaced, unlike your biological components."

I nodded and climbed into Tuft's armor. I really wanted to argue, but I knew he was right. "Frost, stay aware of the surroundings. You're going to be our only defense while we're doing this. I leaned the heavy beam cannon against a tree and lifted my suit.

Tuft crawled into the joint access and I could feel the vibrations from his pounding. I quickly realized I'd never have gotten the bolt out.

"Do you have a plasma cutter, never mind I found it."

I really hoped he was just cutting the bolt. True the bolts weren't needed but some of the parts that looked mismatched and superfluous were required to hold the suit together.

"That's it, now ease the suit down." Tuft yelled.

"Dad, I think we're in trouble. I'm registering movement but the suit can't get a visual."

"Switch to ultraviolet. If it's Bugs the suit still won't 'see' them for target assistance, but you'll be able to see them. Tuft, get out of there."

"I'm sealing the cover now."

Frost started firing and I felt an impact against the back of the suit an instant before the explosion. The next thing I knew I was getting a close look at the ground. I pushed up slightly.

"Tuft?" I asked in concern.

"Get up, get the cannon and fight. I'm out of this one. Over half my body is completely destroyed."

I opened the hatch and stared down at Tuft's mangled form. I'd fallen on top of him. "Can you move your right arm?"

He held it straight out toward me. I grabbed his hand and pulled most of him into the cockpit. "Directly interface with the suit. It should, in theory, function exactly like your drone body even though you're so heavily damaged." I dropped out of the suit shifting to tiger form and ran for my own suit. I hoped the Bugs wouldn't pay any attention to anything other than a humanoid form. My suit was on its side with the hatch open. I smelled my fur singeing as I dove inside and closed the hatch.

"Eat hot plasma you damn bug." Tuft yelled.

I shifted back to human and strapped in. "Sit-rep." I yelled.

"Eight Bugs attacked. I've gotten two, the first by surprise and the second with a lucky shot. Tuft got one, two, and now three."

I pulled one of my revolvers and blew the head off a bug sneaking up behind Frost.

"Two left but they've pulled back. This damn cannon has over heated and needs to cool before I can fire it again. And before you suggest the primary rifle, it was destroyed by that blast you took."

"Keep tracking it around like you could fire again if you had a shot. Frost, I'm going to stand up which will leave me vulnerable. That's when they'll attack." I turned up my audio receivers and returned the revolver to its holster. I slowly stood making sure to get a good grip on my staff. Frost fired and from the sound I knew he missed. I spun, staff out and one of the Bugs practically exploded as my staff broke its exoskeleton smashing in one side and tearing out the other. I heard a sickening crunch followed by a pop and turned to see Tuft holding a Bug head.

He lifted it up. "Alas, poor Bugly. I killed him Tiger, with my titanium and carbon composite hands." He clenched the suits hand and the Bug’s head was completely destroyed.

"That's not how the line goes."

"Yeah well, I don't plan on ending up dead by the end of the mission."

I took a step and then a second. "Damn, you do good work, Tuft. This is smooth and moves better than with the old legs."

"You can repay me with a new drone body."

"Don't you have spare parts on your ship?" Frost asked.

"Spare parts, yes, but not enough to rebuild my whole body."

"I'll be sure to let corporate know you get whatever parts you need, top of the line, for a reduced price."

"I think I must have misheard you." Tuft said turning toward me.

"Significant Discount?" I asked and grinned until I glanced down at the Heavy Beam Cannon pointed at my cockpit.

"Homicidal Bunny here, remember? Want to clear up that static on the line?"

"Like I'd actually charge you? You’re practically family. Wait; that might not have come out right.”

“You think?”

“Yeah, you won’t have to pay anything. However, there are two things I require."

"This had better be good. What are they?"

"One moment. Frost, lower your weapon. Tuft isn't going to kill me. We're just having a bit of fun. Now then on to my requirements. I have to be as far away as possible when you let Tank know you need a complete rebuild and the second is you tell no one what really happened. Make up whatever exciting story you want but no one can ever know I was shot in the back and fell on you."

"You think I want anyone to know that I was to slow to get out of the way? I can't guarantee I won't tell Tank eventually, maybe after transferring into a new body, and I know you’re going to tell your mates."

"Um, what about everyone viewing the recordings?" Frost asked.

"No one will be paying any attention to us with all the action out at the shuttles, I hope. Speaking of which, we'd better get moving."

***

"You didn't even flinch, did you?" Tuft asked.

We'd been following Kicker's trail for nearly ten minutes before Tuft broke the silence. I knew what he really wanted to ask. "No I didn't."

"It's because you put limiters on me, right?"

And there it was. The question I knew Tuft would ask eventually. "Tuft, the only thing limiting your actions is you. Had you pulled the trigger I'd have been removed from the game. If you do that in the real world I'll be dead. The reason I didn't flinch is because I knew you wouldn't kill me unless you decide I'm a threat to Tank."

"You know, according to my memories I've killed quite often."

"Yes, and every time it has been a defensive act. Despite the title of homicidal bunny, you are a very caring and protective person. I created you to be, for Tank, the individual I most needed. I'm not proud of it, but there have been a couple of times when I considered creating an edited version of you where I would have replaced your memories of Tank with memories of me.”

"You what!" Tuft yelled.

"It was never anything more than a fantasy and I would never have actually followed through. Mainly because, if I'd made alterations, you wouldn't be you anymore."

"Tiger, can you read me?"

I did flinch at the sound of Drake's voice. "I hear you, Drake.

"How far away are you?"

There was a loud engine roar as the Lawless passed over with a shuttle held to its cargo section.

"Shades is passing over us now."

"You're within a couple hundred yards then. Fox and I need to return to base to refuel these flight units."

"Understood, provide Shades with extra air support."

“Understood. And Tiger, we will be discussing what you were just talking about when this is over.”

"I'm going too. I've overloaded the Luck with survivors, most need medical attention." Tank interrupted.

"Get them to the hospital. We'll hold out until you return." I ordered.

"Drake, do me a favor, protect Tank while I protect your Tiger." Tuft said.

"Consider him protected." Drake replied.

"Tuft, what do you think you're doing?" Tank yelled.

"Making sure this cat stays out of trouble. Besides, I couldn’t let you go off and have all the fun when there was a big ass plasma cannon just sitting around, now could I?"

"Prowl-Ar, if anything happens to my bunny, I'll be wearing your stripy hide as my new flight jacket."

"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind." I replied, as the Bad Luck passed overhead.

Yeah, I was going to need to be very far away when he found out how damaged Tuft’s body really was. We broke through the foliage into utter chaos.

“Paradise, uncouple the medical pod and get in the air to provide cover while the flight suits are away. Kicker, move a hundred yards south and cover the south east arc. Lee, move to the east and cover the north east quadrant. Tuft-"

"South west quadrant, got it."

”Frost take the center and be ready to provide support where it's needed. Slider, I'm sure you've already found the best position to provide support." The radio let out two clicks. Slider's signal for yes.

"I don't know who you are, and I don't much care. I'm in charge here and you'll follow my orders." A voice announced.

"If I've disrupted your defense strategy, good. Having everyone gathered in the middle is a perfect way for the enemy to take us all out at once. Just shut up and let my people do their jobs. Oh, if you try to order them around, now that I'm here they will ignore you completely."

"You sound just like that ass in the red suit."

"How about you come out here and say that? It'll be interesting to see who gets the kill. That pilot's husband, his son, or one of his friends." Kicker replied.

"I should have guessed he'd be one of those."

"What is your name and rank?" I demanded.

"Colonel Leopold Brand. Commander of Earth Federation's primary Fallow base. What is your rank soldier?"

"Currently I'm a Major. However I have been placed in commander of all Fallow Base Mobile Armor System forces. However, my current rank is due to a bureaucratic foul up. I technically hold the rank of Lt. Colonel with the Earth Forces Exploration Team. I also hold the honorary rank of Admiral any time I am aboard a Federation ship capable of space flight."

"That's not possible." Brand replied.

"You try to get those three departments to speak to one another. Technically I was supposed to be exempt from service due to my company's R&D contributions to this war."

"Sir, don't bother. He's the asshole that sent us to take your suits."

"Phantom! What are you still doing here? You should have been on that first shuttle."

"We sent our suits on the shuttle, but we gave up our tickets to the injured. We're assisting over here by the medical pod." Phantom replied.

"You'd better keep your ticket for the next run."

"Don't worry about that. The less time we have to be around Colonel Brand, the better.” Shadow snarled.

"Shadow, when we get back you'll have to point him out to me. After all Fox didn't get a chance to show his skills last time."

"As long as we don't have to be there, I'm all for letting him have his fun." Shadow replied.

"Just give the order." Slider said.

"No, that would be too quick."

"You stupid grunts, I'm recording all this for your treason hearings. First those damn pilots that forced us to land, then whoever launched that EMP attack, then that transport Captain for taking the medical shuttle before the command shuttle, then the Captain of that ugly turd for taking injured personnel over those that still have the will to fight, then those imbeciles in the flight suits that shouldn't be in this man’s army to begin with, and then the rest of you."

"Tiger, please don't let Fox kill him." Tuft begged.

"Ah, so I've gotten through to one of you at least." Brand said smugly.

"Shut up! I just want a chance to hurt you. Nobody calls my ship an 'ugly turd' without being taken to new heights of suffering. Not to mention I'm sure there is going to be a line behind me to get their own pound of flesh."

"What is your name and rank soldier?"

"My name? My designation is Tuft and my rank is God. Now shut up and start the genuflecting, before I smite you with my holy wrath."

I had to laugh. "That Colonel Brand is the Tuft android. I pressed him into service to cover my flank. So technically you can't touch him. He is also the one with the EMP weapon. You also don't want to try and press charges against the Captain of the ship that hauled away the shuttle. Captain Shades isn't someone you want to piss off without a damn good reason. As if that wasn't enough everyone has been following my orders so I'm the only one you can hold accountable. Now, what we are going to do is get everyone safely back to base and our Commander can deal with you and your pointless bitching."

"Wildside, private channel six." Paradise ordered.

I switched to the Exploration Team's private channel. "What is it Paradise?"

"He wasn't the only one recording that confrontation. I'm just letting you know I'm turning it over to Badlands. Listen, if it comes down to it bro will make sure you and your pilots are safe. Nobody else knows this, and yes he gave me permission to tell you and only you, Badlands is a four star. He just refers to himself as Commander Badlands and nobody ever bothers to check his rank since he is so well known."

"Damn, he's gotten three more stars since he last told me his rank. Shouldn't he be at a desk?"

"Of course, but can you imagine that?"

"No, no I can't. He'd blow up the building first."

Paradise laughed, "That's exactly what he told the last person who suggested it."

"Dad, I know I'm not supposed to use this channel, but I think I have a problem. The lead shuttle's gun has moved and it's pointed directly at me."

"Commander Brand, shut down your weapon systems immediately. That pilot is also a civilian."

"You think I don't know everything that happens at that joke you call a base? I know that pilot is your son. Now, raise your hands or the kid dies."

I raised my suit's hands sending a hand signal.

"Good, now exit your suit and-".

The Commander was cut off as a large hole opened on the shuttle’s bridge followed by the sniper rifle's report.

"Order received, target neutralized, collateral damage minimal. Moving to secondary vantage point."

I clicked my mike twice. "Shuttle crew shut down your weapon systems."

"It's already offline. Your sniper hit the weapons control when he killed the Commander. You'll both be executed for this."

"Yeah, like that will ever happen. Prowl lives on a whole other level. He's likely already come up with six different ways to defend his actions." Shades said as the Lawless entered visual range.

"Only three so far. That was a quick round trip."

"You're slipping."

I swear I could hear Shades grinning. "No, I'll have eight or nine more by the time I get back to base."

"I can believe that. Anyway all I had to do was set that hulk on the ground. Unlike your other pilot who has to unload. Oh and your lazy husbands decided to hitch a ride, supposedly to save fuel."

"We're flying cover, Tiger."

"Keep us safe. Shades-"

"Get your ass over here and set the clamps on this shuttle." So we can get this done.”

"Frost, take my place."

He moved into position carefully watching the perimeter as I move to the second shuttle and started to engage the transport clamps. "Shadow, get as many people as you can aboard this shuttle."

"Already on it." Phantom replied.

"Wildside, I need to return for refueling." Paradise said.

"I've treated everyone I can here. Pick me up and take us back to base where I'll do more good in the hospital."

"On my way Hardline." She replied.

"Shadow, Ghost, and Djinn; that's your ride. Head back with the Exploration team. You do have room for them, right?"

"It won't be comfortable but they can probably squeeze in."

"Shuttle secured Shades."

"Lifting now."

The shuttle groaned as the Lawless slowly rose. I was glad to see that Shades wasn't rushing the transportation."

"Command shuttle, do a head count to see how many are left."

"It doesn't matter. Get them all aboard the Bad Luck as quickly as possible. There's a large group of Bugs coming this way." Tank said as the Bad Luck made a rough landing.

"Define 'large group'." I ordered.

"More than a hundred, but less than a thousand, maybe."

”Perimeter team move back and cover the Bad Luck."

"Tuft, I want you onboard."

"Sorry, but I'm sticking with Prowl-Ar. He owes us and I'm not letting him get out of his debt by dying."

"That's it, all that's left is the crew of the last shuttle." Kicker said.

"Leave the shuttle." I said.

"We can't do that."

"I order you to abandon that craft. I'm going to blow it up when the Bugs arrive."

"You're just trying to destroy the evidence against you."

"The Bad Luck's sensors are telling me there's only four individuals left. I should be able to fit two suits into the cargo area. It won’t be pretty, but better than leaving them behind."

"Kicker and Frost crawl in. Before you complain my decision is based solely on the fact you have the lightest suits and are the closest."

"Tiger, you'd better hurry up. I'm projecting a maximum of fifteen minutes before the Bugs arrive."

I watched as the four remaining shuttle crew came running out loaded down with papers and pads. They scrambled around Frost's suit as he crawled into the Luck's cargo section."

"Lee assist Tuft in guarding the Bad Luck until it's in the air and then pull back along the trail we created to get here. Drake, you and Fox escort Tank to base. Slider, cover my suit while I set the shuttle's drive systems to explode and then rendezvous with Lee and Tuft as I catch up."

As I climbed out of my suit a small drone buzzed me. "I borrowed this from the Exploration Team, thought it might come in handy for extended range sniping."

"Oh it'll come in very handy. Keep an eye out until I finish with the shuttle and then I'll set up the drone as a remote trigger."

***

"Tiger, I'm getting a signal from the drone." Slider announced.

"How far away are we?"

"About twelve miles if my calculations are correct." Tuft said.

"Signal is increasing."

"Everyone get down and brace yourselves. Most of the energy will be directed upward but there is a chance we'll take a nasty hit."

"Motion detection signal at maximum."

There was a distinct thump and a minor tremor.

"That's it?" Lee asked.

"Brace!" I yelled an instant before a tidal wave of energy washed over us. As the energy dissipated we stood and looked around. All biologic matter had been reduced to ash.

"My God." Lee mumbled.

"Calculating blast radius. All unshielded biological life 22.533 miles from epicenter has been annihilated." Tuft announced.

"Hm, a bit bigger than I expected for a shuttle. The core must be larger than I thought, that's not good."

"What did you do?" Slider asked.

"That first thump that was my little jury rigged bomb."

"He cracked the containment core releasing the reactor's coolant. The energy blew out causing this devastation. How did you know we'd survive?" Lee asked.

"I didn't. I knew the suits, at least the enhanced and elite units, were rated to protect the pilot from such a catastrophic accident." I was urgently surveying the surroundings.

"That's why you made sure Frost went with Tank."

"Right, I couldn't risk the possibility the Infantry suit wasn't strong enough to protect him."

"And if we'd been killed?" Tuft asked.

"As a non-biological entity you would still be able to report back to base."

"How comforting."

"It stopped the Bug’s assault. Everyone, move to that gully and get your suit as close to the ground as you can."

"You think they'll let us be part of the firing squad at his execution?" Lee asked glancing at Slider.

"I'd turn them down if they did. He's bad enough alive imagine him haunting us for the rest of our lives." Slider replied.

”You won't have to imagine anything if you don't move!" Tuft yelled, as he followed me into the stream bed. "That explosion was the reactor core coolant. Next is the reactor overload!"

I'd never seen suits move so fast.

"How much time do we have?" Lee asked.

"A minute or two at most. Hopefully it just had an oversized engine. If it had an anti-matter reactor we're all going to be dead shortly." I said, as I sank the short blade that extended from the toes of the suit's feet into the ground.

"We're now in the open could we radio the base one last time?" Slider asked.

"If it's an anti-matter reactor you can deliver you message when we're all on the other-" Tuft started to say.

It was like we were hit with a hurricane as ash and dirt was sucked toward the shuttle's location for an instant and then the ground dropped out from under us. We were pulled into a small crater and then the wind stopped.

"What in the name of all that's holy and unholy was that?" Slider asked.

"That was a blatant violation of regulations." I growled. "Some damn bureaucrat authorized the use of zero point engines in shuttles."

"Zero point?" Lee asked.

"Basically a system that generates energy by containing a micro black hole. A system that is limited to heavy battleships that stay well outside habitable systems. They are highly unstable in planetary gravity. And they can be worse than anti-matter depending on their size."

"How are we, or the planet for that matter still here?" Tuft asked.

"If it is small enough it can be snuffed with more matter than it can break down. Basically the shuttle and the soil from this crater."

"Should we go check to be sure it’s contained?" Lee asked.

"Do you want to get back to base sometime this year?" I asked.

"We're only a six hour hike from base, and they may send a transport to pick us up." Lee replied.

"That minute where the air was rushing in and the ground collapsed could have equaled anywhere from an hour to a year outside the blast radius. Sure it's still six hours back to base but we won't know how much time has passed for them until we get closer to base."

"I don't get it." Lee replied.

"Time slows down the closer you get to a black hole. We were rather close when the containment failed so our few minutes were days or even years for the base. All we can do is head back and find out."

We started walking and it seemed no one felt like conversation. "Computer move Tuft and myself to observer mode."

"You are now outside of the game."

"What's going on?" Tuft asked.

"Time has to pass normally for everyone else so we're out of the game until our time and their time synchronize."

"Ah, so how long will that be?"

"It needs to be significant but not so long that you and I get bored while they play."

"How about two weeks? That'll give Tank time to travel to Earth and back with a new body for me if Frost tells him that my current body was mostly destroyed."

"That makes sense, two weeks game time can be between two and three days in the real world. With Tank traveling to Earth you can both do other things while Shock, Frost and Kyle have to continue playing. Computer, pause game."

"Tiger, what is going on?" Kyle asked.

"Tuft, you're alright!" Tank yelled.

"Of course I'm alright, this is just a game, remember?"

"Well, Tuft and I are out of the game for a couple of weeks, game time, or days real time, due to a time-dilation event from the shuttle's explosion."

Kyle nodded, "So we need to figure that out and then basically continue playing until time catches up. Should be fun getting to be the center of attention for a while, with you, Slider and Lee going completely black."

"One last thing, Frost, when they figure out why Tuft and I seem to be missing you need to tell Tank about Tuft needing him to retrieve something."

"Wait, Tuft what's going on?" Tank asked.

Frost grinned and nodded.

"Sorry Tank, but you're just going to have to play along until Frost tells you."

Shock grinned, "I can't wait to see Tank's reaction to what you did to Tuft. Resume game."

"Tuft, I'll see you in a couple of days unless you feel like chatting."

"Maybe later, right now I need to go and get things ready for Tank's reaction to my virtual body being destroyed. Log out."

I headed for the door knowing I'd be logged out as soon as I left the room. I didn't want to be anywhere near the VR when Tank was likely going to be looking for a bit of VR vengeance.

***

I leaned back in my chair and cracked my knuckles. "I've finished."

"Finally getting around to updating the ship's log? It's only been since your second week onboard that you've been putting it off." Mahan said.

"No, I'm finally getting around to the surprise I told Shock's viewers about so long ago. Check my coding to make sure I haven't missed any fatal errors."

"You've been building a virtual reality game that doesn't use the VR chamber?"

"It'll run off the same system but it will be compatible with current VR tech. The hard part was making it compatible with all VR systems."

"Startup looks good. You need a game title. Beginning new game options are rather menu heavy. Found a problem, this game will be able to interact with your current game."

"That's the idea."

"You're putting them through basic training? That seems rather brutal."

"It'll weed out anyone not serious about playing. However, by the end of training everyone should have enough points to purchase an infantry suit. Those that actually put in the effort will be able to get better suits and those that really excel will have early access to official option parts."

"You'll need at least three servers plus a linked VR computer."

"That was the easy part. We already have 36 available server satellites and I've networked eight VR computer satellites."

"You're re-tasking the holographic projection system?"

"Yes, at least when we're not using that system."

"That's all you have coded."

"Correct, after completing basic training they will get their suits, enter their call sign, and choose three possible assignments from the current nine worlds."

"You know they'll all choose Fallow."

That’s why I've rigged the choices. Most will get their first choice unless it is Fallow in which case they get their second choice."

"Using that logic no one will get assigned to Fallow."

I grinned, "Fallow is the planet no one gets assigned to. So is it ready for launch?"

"I told you it still needs a title."

"MAS Battle: Mobile Armor System War, should be good enough." I pulled up the file and added the title.

"A bit simple. I'm now locking the files to prevent hacking and cheating. Initializing the new planets, soft opening MAS boot camps. System is ready for recruits."

"It's time to go hijack Shock's sight. You know, maybe I'll do this in VR." I got up and headed for the private VR chamber next to the bedroom. Once inside I started a new game in observer mode, set the system to record and started the stream.

"Welcome, as you can see I'm hijacking Shock's livestream once again. Due to events, you'll learn about in upcoming episodes, I've had some free time on my hands. Awhile back I told you I had a surprise for you and I've finally completed it. Welcome to MAS Battle. A free to access VR game that takes place simultaneously with our own."

I gestured to the base's main gate. "For those with the will to slog through basic training you will earn game points for your own suit, custom call sign, and the ability to choose three possible worlds. There are currently a total of nine worlds." I paused as a short image montage started and then named off the planets as the scenery changed. "Tropical Fallow, frozen Bleak, swampy Depression, arid Parch, mountainous Cringe, oceanic Drowned, forested Lost, grassy Endless, and cavernous Terror. The game is open for anyone able to play VR games. The boot camps opened just before I started streaming this message and it looks like we already have our first recruits. Welcome to MAS boot camp."

"Humph, you're just a pointless NPC why don't you direct us to our first task?"

I pulled out my blaster and shot him in the chest. The death animation played as I re-holstered my gun. "I should point out that if you die in the game there is no respawn. You go all the way back to the beginning and have to restart boot camp. Oh and your original profile is locked so you can't recreate the exact same character again. For the unlucky first timer, I'm not an NPC. I'm currently logged in as my Jahar Træn character profile, but I'm still Prowl-Ar and I'm much nicer than the NPCs you'll be meeting. So be respectful or you may end up dead and having to start over. Now, I leave you to your game." I logged out and returned to the living room.

"That wasn't very nice."

"I know, is he restarting?"

"Yes, he has started building a new profile."

"Open chat message. I'm sorry, for making an example of you. Please remember that in my games you can never tell who is an NPC and who is a player character. Still because someone had to be an example I'm transferring 100 game points from my personal account towards the cost of your suit and unlocking your original profile. If you get through basic training you will definitely have enough points for an enhanced suit or an infantry suit with full upgrades. Prowl-Ar Nightiger."

"You do realize those points can't be replaced with your in game connections?"

"I know, but it would be a real apology if I wasn't giving up something that I had to work for. Now I think I'll take a nap. Oh, one more thing, how many current players?"

"Do you want just the fact that all three camps are full, or the numbers including the wait list for when the first group completes the training?"

"I hadn't expected so many this quickly."

"I could open a further five camps for this first run, making it clear that it is for the first class only, by diverting resources from the currently unused server worlds."

"Will that cover everyone?"

"No, but it will get enough players to really establish bases on all the worlds."

"Do it."

***

Shock came out of his studio and flopped down on the couch.

"You're not playing?" I asked.

"No, I'm on break for my weekly chat. Besides, not much is happening in the game."

I knew he was lying and he had to realize it, but I didn't press for details since I wasn't supposed to know what was happening anyway.

"I have a question that's been bugging me for a while now and I wasn't sure if I should ask you about it, but several of my fans were arguing about it so I thought now might be a good time."

"Stop dancing around and ask."

"Well, we know that civilization has experienced two complete collapses since your time, however each time we recover it seems like we progress rather rapidly. And each time someone finds an archive of ancient entertainment and knowledge. It's like culture was put on pause until we'd recovered enough to pick up where we left off."

"Yeah, it's because I plant the seeds of rebirth. It's why culture hasn't progressed much beyond my time. There have actually been four collapse events. The first one and the latest ones are the two you know about, but there were two minor collapses between them."

"Why didn't you make things better?" Sock asked.

"I tried. That first collapse, I didn't even know about. I mean all my connections to Earth were gone so I didn't check in more than once or twice a decade. Once I noticed I started to help where I could. I did improve things beyond what they were in my time which got them the first moon and Mars research stations. The next thing I know there's a holy war going on.

"Right, the war of God and science."

"Most seemed to believe that the two weren't mutually exclusive, but it didn't stop the societal regression. The third collapse I was directly responsible for. One of the new countries to rise after the collapse set out on a campaign of genocide. It was a country I'd been helping rapidly recover. The country was highly isolationist but they sent out missionaries to improve living conditions around the world, or so I thought."

"I know this story! The missionaries were actually recon teams preparing to subjugate the world and cleanse it. They might have succeeded if- Oh."

"If most of the country hadn't been decimated by a meteor shower."

"That was basically the start of the second, or I guess fourth collapse. People tried to keep progressing but it was like all inspiration and motivation was gone. The off world bases were closed and everyone did what they could just to stay alive."

"The world entered a state of lawlessness for about a century. I swore I'd never help again. If humanity went extinct, I'd restart it of course, but it wouldn’t get any other help. Surprisingly the world actually started recovering on its own. Then Mahan picked up a message sent from a shortwave radio."

"Please, if anybody is out there, I need help. I- I'm a boy in a girl’s body. Nobody loves me, but I- I don't want to die alone."

Shock gasped, "You?"

The recording continued, "You are not alone. There are a lot of people just like you. There are even some, like me. Not only am I a male that loves other men but I'm a tiger that was born human. I know it is hard now, but one day you'll see that life has so much more to offer. I'm not going to preach to you about some bright future just take a breath, hold it for a moment, and then breath out letting the pain and hate go with it. There is nothing wrong with you. It's the ones that tell you that there is who are wrong. Take another breath. Live for tomorrow, find ways to make tomorrow better for yourself. If you promise to do that for me. I promise to do my best to make the future a place where you will be happy."

The recording ended. "From that day I've been having Mahan use his drones to help the world progress without my ego getting in the way."

"When did you realize I was the one you'd talked to?" Shock asked.

"I got up, moved over to the couch, and wrapped my arms around him. “It wasn't until just before your first memory implant. It was when you were talking about Kyle and how much you hoped you'd have someone that loved you like that someday. You sounded so down that it triggered my memory of that day. I had Mahan do a deep scan. I didn't say anything because I still hoped you'd find someone better than me. Then there was the incident with the president and as you left the bridge I knew there was no way I'd let anyone hurt you like that again. I’d made you a promise and in that moment I’d failed. I haven't said anything since then because I was afraid."

"Afraid of what?"

"That you would think I pitied you rather than really loving you as much as I do."

Shock booped me on the nose. "Stupid Tiger, don't you think I'd know the difference through our link? When you pity someone is a cool, empty, lavender feeling. However when you think of me it's warm, overflowing, neon pink with gold sparkles feeling. What's wrong, you've gone all powder blue and swirly?"

"Nothing. It's just, I think you have a more innate connection and understanding of our soul link than I do is all."

"Got it, powder blue and swirly is awe with a bit of confusion."

"Foxy, I don't usually believe in fate, but you're making me wonder if it does play some small part in our lives."

"Just take a breath, hold it, and release letting all the confusion go with it."

I did as he said and then pulled him into a kiss. A short time later I pulled away and looked into his eyes. "I hope you don't mind, but I’m not going to live for tomorrow any more. Tomorrow can take care of itself. I have my Drake and Foxy and I'd much rather live for them."

Shock blushed and let out a giggle. "Keep that up and I may have to start calling you my pet." Shock laughed. "For someone that tries so hard to hide his feelings you're so easy to read. Now let's see if I can replace those gray smoke clouds with inferno red with white explosions."

***