October 1st, 2184. Copper 9 Low Orbit. SES Super Destroyer Aegis of Integrity. Bridge.
After discussing the developments on the frontlines and the upcoming Liberty Day celebration, Jason began making his way off the bridge. There was much to accomplish today. Information gathering was the primary objective, especially with defenses still under construction and the Red Zones strictly off-limits. As he approached the door separating the bridge from the rest of the ship, the Aegis of Integrity's shipmaster intercepted him.
"Ah, you're up, sir. There's something I'd like to discuss with you. I've been reviewing your helmet camera feed. You know that one drone—Lizzy, I think her name is? She's the one with the phone, right?" the shipmaster asked.
"She is. How she manages to keep it working is a mystery worth investigating. Why do you ask?" Jason replied, raising an eyebrow.
"Well, sir, I've been considering ways to improve our ability to track and communicate with the drones, as well as streamline information gathering. It's clear they understand technology, and I see an opportunity here. If each drone had a phone, not only could we track them, but they could also quietly communicate with us. In case one gets lost or separated, the phone could serve as a beacon. Plus, Lizzy seems to enjoy taking pictures. If the others are similar, they could use the phones to capture and share anything unusual. It would be an efficient way to filter a steady flow of intel," the shipmaster explained.
"That's… That might just work. It's a low-cost, straightforward solution. And as you said, it could function as an SOS device if needed. I've considered equipping the combat drones with some of our wrist computers. That would give them access to orbital support in case of hostile encounters. Get in touch with SES Lucas and explore the feasibility. Find out how long it'll take to manufacture these for the drones," Jason instructed.
The shipmaster nodded, heading back to the bridge. Jason mulled over the idea as he continued. The wrist computers designed for military personnel linked directly to the ship's systems in orbit. While invaluable, they also posed risks. The last thing he needed was a careless drone accidentally calling down an orbital strike on its position. Even without a beacon, the weapons systems could lock onto the computer's signal. However, for combat drones operating without human support, these devices could enable precise deployment of orbital weaponry or other support systems. It was a step toward strengthening their information network.
"Not a bad idea," Jason muttered to himself as he stepped into the lift that descended to the hangar.
Reaching the hangar floor, he walked toward his waiting Pelican. The pilot spotted him and climbed aboard. The canopy slid shut as the engines roared to life. The rear ramp lowered, allowing Jason to board. He took a seat in the bay as the ramp sealed behind him. The Pelican lifted smoothly into the air, and the hangar bay doors opened to release it.
"This is Pelican 1, departing SES Super Destroyer Aegis of Integrity and en route to Bunker 00," the pilot announced over the comms.
With practiced precision, the Pelican exited the hangar, banking toward Copper 9's turbulent atmosphere. As it descended, Jason's thoughts shifted to the challenges ahead. There were still the gravitational anomalies to investigate and the artifacts retrieved from the SEAF base to analyze. For now, all he could do was wait for the Pelican to land, meet with the others, and start piecing together the details of their mission.
Copper 9 Surface. SEAF Pelican 04. Near Outpost 10.
As Jason carried out his duties, two SEAF Pelicans were dispatched toward Outpost 10, following his orders to transfer critical supplies to the location. Sergeant Grayson and his squad had been tasked with delivering these provisions and assessing the outpost's needs to improve its functionality.
"Landing in about twenty minutes," the pilot called out.
"According to the reports, this outpost is home to two combat drones. It seems the Helldiver Jason spoke with them, and they've managed to set up some defenses. However, they still need supplies. We're just one of several units assigned to such tasks. We're also here to help them set up a wind generator and a radio," one of the SEAF soldiers explained.
"That's where the Engineering Corps steps in. Once we hit the ground, we unload the supplies and head back for the next shipment. Simple as that," Grayson said.
"When I pictured stepping out of the pod, I thought it'd be to fight either Terminids or Automatons, like usual. Instead, here we are on a planet colder than Vog-Sojoth, working with machines that aren't trying to kill us," one soldier joked, eliciting a chuckle.
"Not complaining, but I sure could use more sleep. Four or five hours a night isn't cutting it," Grayson replied.
The squad had been working tirelessly, operating on minimal rest since the start of this mission. Cryopod stasis wasn't practical when they could be called into action at any moment. Sleep had become a fleeting luxury. These musings dissipated as the Pelican's engines shifted to VTOL mode.
"We're landing near the outpost. Stand by," the pilot announced as the engines roared, lowering the craft smoothly to the snow-covered ground.
"Alright, grab a box, and let's move," Grayson ordered as the Pelican's side door slid open.
Grayson stepped out first, accepting a large crate of supplies handed to him. The boxes contained essentials for the drones: oil, lubricants, and other necessities to last two weeks. Additional shipments were already scheduled. Placing the first crate by the outpost door, he knocked lightly.
"Anyone home? We've got supplies for you," Grayson called out as his team began unloading.
The door creaked open after a brief pause, revealing Alia. She glanced at Grayson before opening the door fully.
"I was wondering when you'd arrive. Jason said we'd be getting supplies. By the way, where is he right now?" Alia asked as she stepped outside.
Inside, Isaak remained asleep, exhausted from the previous day's work. Alia, too, had tried to rest but decided she needed to see Jason. Questions about the Helldivers she'd been with—and their fate—nagged at her. She also wanted clarity on Jason's next moves in the operation.
"He should still be aboard the Super Destroyer. From what I hear, he's dealing with something important at Bunker 00. I don't have the details, but we were ordered to expedite this delivery. He's likely en route now," Grayson explained.
"I see. Then I'll head to Bunker 00," Alia said.
As she spoke, the door behind her opened, and Isaak stepped out. His optics flicked from Alia to Grayson, his tone tinged with annoyance.
"What's all this noise? Finally managed to get some sleep, and now someone's banging on the door," Isaak grumbled.
"They're delivering supplies," Alia replied. "I'm heading to Bunker 00 to speak with Jason. I'll be back as soon as I can."
Isaak eyed her knowingly. He'd anticipated this from their conversation the previous night. Alia carried the weight of guilt over leaving her Helldiver unit behind. If not for the defenses Jason had established and the human presence nearby, Isaak might have tried to dissuade her from venturing out alone into the perils of Copper 9.
"Alright, I'll handle the supplies with this crew and sort out what's needed here," Isaak said.
"Thank you. I'll return soon, and if you're not done, I'll help. Stay safe, all of you," Alia replied. She unfurled her wings and soared into the sky, disappearing into the frozen horizon.
Grayson watched her ascend before turning to Isaak. "What's that about her needing to see Jason?"
"Personal reasons. Nothing more. Now, what do you have for us?" Isaak deflected.
"Besides the supplies, we've got some engineers here to improve your outpost. We also need to make it habitable for humans. There's a chance some of our men might need to bunk here. Will that be an issue?" Grayson asked.
"That's understandable, given the proximity of your operations. I'll need to forward the request to Martin, but I don't see any problems," Isaak replied.
He kept Alia's reasons for meeting Jason to himself. It was her burden to bear, and he respected her need for resolution. He hoped Jason could provide the answers Alia sought to ease her guilt over the Helldivers' fate. For now, Isaak focused on his duty, silently wishing for a better outcome for her—and them all.
Copper 9 Surface. Colony 02. Lizzy's Room.
As morning broke over the colony, there were no alarms or automated systems to wake its inhabitants—only the rhythm of daily patrols or the scattered clocks that still functioned. For Lizzy, it was her parents who stirred her from sleep. After chatting briefly with her mother the night before, she had finally settled in. As always, a light knock came at her door.
"Lizzy, it's time to get up if you're heading to Bunker 00," her mother's voice called softly.
Lizzy's neon-pink optics flickered to life as she sat up, stretching. She glanced toward the door.
"I'm up… I'll be out in a moment," she replied, her voice steady despite the lingering haze of sleep.
Sliding off the bed, Lizzy crossed to her closet. Most of her clothing was patched or repurposed from scraps scavenged across the surface—a reminder of the colony's enduring hardships. While the options were limited, she held out hope that the humans' return would bring new supplies. Selecting her usual outfit, she pulled on an off-the-shoulder crop top with a yellow hem, a skirt with a band, black boots, and a red hard hat. A bright yellow bow resembling cat ears completed her look, perched neatly atop her head. Underneath, she wore a black tank top for added warmth.
Satisfied, Lizzy shut the closet door and headed toward the room's exit, only to stop abruptly.
"Almost forgot," she muttered, spinning on her heel to retrieve her phone from a table on the right side of the room.
The device lay there, well-maintained despite its age—a testament to her care. Checking the battery and confirming everything was functional, Lizzy idly scrolled through her photos. She paused at an image of Jason and the EXO-49s, a nostalgic smile spreading across her face.
"I wonder if the big man's ready for another group photo later," she mused before pocketing the phone and heading to the door.
"Mom, Dad, I'm heading out. I should be back in a few hours. You two okay till then?" Lizzy called out as she stepped into the hallway.
"We'll be fine, dear," her mother replied, approaching to embrace her. "Your father's already left. He's got work with the humans today, so he'll be gone for most of it."
"Of course he does," Lizzy said, chuckling as she returned the hug. "He's always working to keep this place going. I think things are finally looking up for everyone."
Her mother smiled warmly. "That we can agree on. I'll see you when you get back. I've got a few things to take care of here, and then I'll see if anyone needs help."
With a final squeeze, Lizzy released the hug and stepped outside, setting her sights on Rebecca's home. Next, she'd collect Thad. Emily had spent the night at Rebecca's, seeking comfort after watching those disturbing broadcasts. Lizzy was glad Emily hadn't been alone. The only challenge now was the distance between their homes—a short walk through the colony.
"Lizzy! Good to see you're up!" a familiar voice called out behind her. Turning, she saw Thad jogging toward her, his enthusiasm palpable.
"Thad? What are you doing up so early? It's usually me dragging you out of bed," Lizzy said, raising an eyebrow.
Thad grinned. "Are you kidding? I wouldn't miss this for anything. I barely slept—I've been ready for hours. You heading to get the others?"
"Yeah," Lizzy replied with a nod. "Rebecca's probably still asleep, and Emily should be with her. She wanted to stay the night."
"Perfect. One more stop, and then we're off," Thad said, falling into step beside her.
The two began walking toward Rebecca's home, their steps echoing faintly through the quiet colony. Though it wasn't far, the journey felt like part of a greater purpose—one they were eager to embrace.
Colony 02. Rebecca's Room.
In Rebecca's room, she stirred awake, her cyan optics flickering to life. Letting out a soft groan, she slowly sat up, rubbing her forehead. She had stayed up far too late last night.
"Next time, I'm going to bed early," she muttered before turning toward her friend. "Emily, time to get up."
Emily lay sprawled on another bed, one Rebecca had set up in case friends needed to stay over. Sliding off the edge of her bed, Rebecca shuffled to her closet, selecting her usual attire: a maroon dress with gold stripes, sturdy black boots, and a red hard hat.
"Five more minutes," Emily mumbled, her optics still displaying "Sleep Mode."
Rebecca sighed, walking over and giving Emily's bed a gentle shake. "Come on now, it was your idea to stay up late. No sleeping in."
"Alright, alright… I'm getting up," Emily groaned, her neon blue eyes finally flickering on. She reached for her glasses, half-oval in shape, and slipped them on as she swung her legs over the bed's edge.
While Emily worked on waking up, Rebecca moved to her bedroom door and peered outside. The quiet halls confirmed what she suspected: her parents were already hard at work, like nearly everyone else in the colony.
"Looks like they're already out," Rebecca noted, returning to Emily. "Come on, I bet Lizzy and Thad are on their way."
She knew Lizzy well enough—she was usually the first one up and ready. Emily sighed but followed Rebecca as they stepped out of the room. Rebecca closed the door behind them just as they approached the main doorway to her quarters. Before Rebecca could knock, Lizzy was already there, hand raised, about to rap on the door. Lizzy paused, glancing between Rebecca and Emily.
"Morning! Looks like I'm not the only one up early. Saved me the trouble of waking you two. Stayed up late?" Lizzy asked with a teasing smile.
"Just a little," Rebecca admitted. "But I'm not going to miss this. Tonight, though, I'm getting all the sleep I can. So, are we ready to head out?"
"Just the four of us," Thad replied, stepping beside Lizzy. "I'm hoping the humans will lift us like last time. I really don't want to hike through the snow."
"Same here," Emily added. "I hate the walk to the bunker."
The group exchanged nods before stepping out into the crisp air, the door shutting behind them. Together, they made their way toward Colony 02's entrance. Today felt different—charged with anticipation. For once, the humans genuinely needed their help.
Stories from the older drones filled their minds, tales of past challenges and triumphs. But now, it was their turn to be part of something significant. The drones in Bunker 00 needed information, and it was up to them to deliver. This first step toward the bunker felt like the beginning of a day that could change everything—for better or worse.
Colony 02. Entrance.
As they approached the entrance to Colony 02, Lizzy took the lead, with Emily trailing close behind Rebecca. Reaching for the door handle, Lizzy paused as muffled voices reverberated through the expansive space beyond. Intrigued, she carefully gripped the handle, easing the door open just enough to eavesdrop without drawing attention.
"Hmm… We're going to need more wiring for this," an engineer muttered, glancing at a data pad while three others worked around a pipe spilling tangled wires. "We've replaced about thirty percent here alone, but we've stripped most of it out. Lucas needs to send another shipment, and at this rate, we're looking at three to four more days to finish."
"There's a backlog," another replied, yanking lengths of wire from the pipe. "Bunker 00 is at the top of the priority list, with every colony and outpost behind them. Even with the drones helping, we're looking at delays across the board."
"Speaking of drones, how long do you think before Ampudyne tries to get their hands on one?"
"That megacorporation?" The first engineer scoffed. "They'd have to go through the entire Super Earth government. No corporation, no matter how powerful, is getting anything from here. There's a massive gag order. I doubt any of the ministries have leaked a word of what's happening."
"Doesn't mean they won't try," another muttered darkly. "And if they do, it'll be a headache. The drones need to stay out of corporate hands—and our enemies—at all costs."
The others nodded grimly in agreement. Lizzy quietly closed the door and turned to her companions.
"I've heard of these megacorporations," Thad murmured. "One of them was involved in Copper 9's development back when it was still a colony."
"Yeah," Lizzy replied thoughtfully. "And it seems they're still around. We'll ask Jason about it later. Come on."
She opened the door fully, stepping into the space beyond with the others following.
"I've never heard of these corporations," Emily said, her tone uncertain.
"I only picked up bits and pieces during those old stories," Rebecca admitted. "I guess I should've paid more attention."
As they moved through the bustling space, the massive blast doors loomed ahead. Humans and drones were hard at work on various systems. Footsteps echoed suddenly from behind as Darren and Trevor hurried through the door to catch up.
"Rebecca!" Darren called, his tone playful. "Had to find out from Lizzy's mom that you were here? Already leaving without even stopping by to say hi?"
"Sorry, Darren," Rebecca said with a sheepish smile, pulling him into a hug. "We're needed at the bunker. Jason doesn't seem like the patient type."
"You could still make time to visit," Darren replied, returning the embrace.
"Same goes for all of you," Trevor chimed in. "We get this is important, but you could at least stop by to say hello."
Lizzy rolled her eyes with a smirk. "We've got plenty of time. A few hours won't hurt."
"We'll be back soon," Emily added. "And I'm sure we'll have new stories to share."
"Oh, no doubt," Thad said. "Today's bound to be interesting."
The six of them had been close friends for years, though Darren and Trevor mostly stayed within Colony 02. Lizzy, Rebecca, Thad, and Emily often spent time at Bunker 00, where they had forged bonds with the combat drones V, N, J, Uzi, and Doll.
"When we get back, maybe J or Doll can visit," Lizzy suggested. "They could use a break with everything the humans are handling."
As they spoke, the floor beneath them trembled. A ZF-61 Titan heavy tank rumbled into view, its four massive treads grinding through the snow. Two D-A4X IFVs followed close behind.
"Holy Liberty, what is that thing?!" Trevor exclaimed, wide-eyed as the enormous tank passed under the blast door.
Once inside, the Titan maneuvered into position near the wall and came to a halt. The IFVs parked alongside it and powered down. The Titan's turret hatch opened, and its commander climbed out, stepping onto the tank's hull before descending to speak with an engineer.
"Good timing," the engineer remarked. "You're lucky we tested the floor. It can handle the weight."
"Glad to hear it," the commander replied. "The last thing we need is to break through. Any breathable spaces here?"
"We've got purifiers if you need to bunk down," the engineer said with a chuckle. "We're all running on fumes, though."
"I just want out of this damn suit," the commander grumbled, gesturing toward the Titan.
Rebecca stepped forward hesitantly. "Excuse me, but… why is there a tank parked in here?"
"Defense," the commander replied briskly. "Until the walls and other systems are in place, Command wants a standing force ready for any threat. Apologies for the lack of notice, but orders are coming in faster than we can handle."
"I see…" Lizzy said, stepping forward. "By chance, could you arrange a ride for us to Bunker 00? Jason needs us there, and walking in this weather isn't ideal."
The commander considered her request before reaching for his radio. "I'll see if SEAF can send a Pelican for pickup. If the Helldivers want you there, they'll make it happen."
As he made the call, the group exchanged glances, their thoughts turning to the line of imposing vehicles. The humans were clearly taking no chances, preparing for both defense and retaliation. While the precautions were reassuring, they couldn't shake the feeling that such measures might draw unwanted attention. For now, all they could do was wait and see what the day ahead would bring.
Bunker 00. J's Room.
After paying their respects the previous night at the graves of Tessa and Anderson, and providing the humans with the names to mark them properly, V and J had retreated to their private quarters. Unlike most combat drones in Bunker 00, who shared large communal rooms, the three—V, J, and N—had their own private spaces, transformed into personal sanctuaries.
Hanging from the ceiling of her room, J's wings folded around her form like a cocoon. Her optics shifted from sleep mode to two glowing yellow orbs as her internal alarm activated. She was always the first of the trio to awaken. With a smooth motion, she unfurled her wings, the mechanical appendages folding neatly into her back as she let go of the pipe her tail had been coiled around. Landing lightly on the floor, she stood and stretched, her movements fluid and precise.
"Time to get the others up and going... Hopefully, Martin's in a good mood this morning," she muttered to herself.
J moved to her closet, opening it to reveal the few items of clothing she owned. She selected a short-sleeved black shirt with side pockets, a dark yellow undershirt, a leather belt, and her black blazer. She slipped into the outfit with practiced efficiency, adjusting the belt before shutting the closet door. Her gaze fell on her desk, where a single item commanded her attention: a helmet.
It was Tessa's helmet, the last tangible piece of their former companion. J kept it in pristine condition, a physical fragment of memories she was determined to preserve. She approached it slowly, her fingers brushing its smooth surface.
"Maybe today, we'll finally uncover the truth about you, Tessa... Whether you lied to us or not," J murmured, her voice carrying a rare vulnerability.
Tessa had been more than just a human to J, V, and N. She was a friend, someone they trusted implicitly, forging a bond that transcended their roles as drones and humans. But the events surrounding Bunker 05 had shattered that trust. Fragmented memories, missing time, and inexplicable events plagued them, leaving questions unanswered.
J's hand lingered on the helmet, her mind swirling with thoughts. She sought clarity, as did the others. With a deep, steadying breath, she let go and turned toward the door.
"Time to get moving," she said to herself, her tone firm now.
Her first stop was V's room, followed by a check-in on N and Uzi. Today wasn't just another day—it was a step toward confronting the past and unraveling the truths they had buried for far too long.
Bunker 00. Doll's Room
The bunker systems hummed softly, a constant reminder of the shelter's unyielding machinery. Unlike many other drones still stirring awake this morning, Doll lay wide-eyed, staring at the ceiling of her room. Sleep had eluded her all night as she wrestled with her thoughts, the upcoming meeting, and the weight of her past actions. Uzi and Nori dominated her mind.
"This is my fault…" she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper.
She replayed the memory again—breaking that cup, unleashing a torrent of emotions she couldn't control, and awakening something within her that sent Nori fleeing. The guilt pressed heavily on her, though she reasoned it could have easily been Uzi in her place, which would have been far worse.
"Doll... it's time," Yeva's voice came softly from the door.
Yeva, perceptive as always, had long since noticed her daughter's late-night habits. She had suspected Doll would already be awake.
"Coming, Mother," Doll replied, sliding off the edge of her bed.
She moved to her closet, selecting her outfit for the day—a red and yellow off-shoulder crop top layered over a black shirt, a skirt cinched with a yellow belt, and her signature red hard hat adorned with a yellow band. After slipping into the clothes, she stepped out into the living room, where Yeva was embracing Nikolai.
"Be careful today," Yeva said softly, her arms still wrapped around him. "I know your work isn't dangerous, but accidents can always happen. Doll and I will be at the meeting and back soon."
"I'll be fine," Nikolai assured her, pulling away with a gentle smile. "Just don't reveal too much. They shouldn't know everything. For now, anyway."
"We'll only share what's necessary," Yeva replied firmly. "The focus is on Nori. They likely know very little about her situation. Giving them just enough information improves our chances of finding her."
"Don't worry, Father. We know what we're doing," Doll chimed in, her tone confident.
Nikolai gave her a warm smile as he passed her, pausing briefly to pat her head before heading toward the door. His day would be spent working with the humans, while Yeva and Doll were bound for the meeting. With any luck, it would bring clarity and progress for everyone involved.
As Nikolai exited, Yeva turned to Doll. "Let's get going. I just hope it's only Uzi we'll have to deal with. Khan... I'd rather avoid him for now. I'll need to speak with him after this."
Doll tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "Do you think Nori told him what you did to Father?"
"I don't know," Yeva admitted, her voice laced with uncertainty. "I spent time with Khan, but I kept it hidden from him. As for Nori... it's impossible to say. That's what we need to discuss—and a few other things."
Together, they moved toward the open door, where Nikolai had already disappeared down the corridor. Their destination was the command room, where crucial answers and revelations awaited. Yeva's thoughts were consumed by what Khan might know about Nori's curse. If he knew anything at all, today would be the day to uncover it.
Bunker 00. V's Room
Suspended in the center of her dimly lit room, V was cocooned within her wings, her optics dimmed in sleep mode. Her room was stark and utilitarian, furnished with only a single table. Unlike the others, she saw no need for personal embellishments or comforts.
A soft knock broke the silence, reverberating faintly through the metal walls.
"V… Time to get up," J's voice called, followed by a series of heavier, more insistent knocks.
"I'm up… Just give me a moment," V replied, her voice groggy but composed.
She uncoiled her tail from the overhead pipe, landing softly on the floor. Her wings folded seamlessly into her back as she stretched briefly before walking over to the table. There, her uniform lay neatly folded: a dark gray, short-sleeved crop coat with a golden fur collar and cuffs. She slipped it on, adjusting it snugly before heading to the door.
As she opened it, J stepped back slightly, giving her room to step out.
"Morning. Did you sleep well?" J asked, her yellow optics glinting faintly in the corridor's artificial light.
"I slept well enough. Is Jason here yet?" V inquired, shutting the door behind her with a faint click.
"Not yet, which works out for us. We still need to get Uzi and N up. After that, it's just a matter of waiting for Jason to arrive," J said.
"He's probably on his way down now," V said, her tone matter-of-fact. "Jason's not one to be late, and I'd bet the others are already en route too. Today's going to be… interesting. And busy."
With that, the two began making their way down the corridor. The metallic echoes of their footsteps filled the silence as they advanced toward their next destination. Their mission was straightforward: rouse the remaining members of their group and prepare for the meeting.
Today wasn't just any day—it was the day they would finally confront the mysteries that had haunted them for the past century. Answers were within reach, and they would stop at nothing to uncover the truth.
Edited thanks to ELE73CH.