Operation story: BB-7

Operation

Story

Previous BB-6	Next BB-8
Characters
Doctor Priestess Kal'tsit Ascalon W Ines Scout Theresa Theresis Manfred Military Commission Guard Victorian Soldier
Backgrounds
1 2 3 4 5 6

Before operation

Summary The Doctor makes the ultimate choice between the civilization of the past and the present. At a place unknown to any others, the Doctor meets with Theresis.
<Background 1>
[The Doctor enters a dark room.]
Doctor	Enable administrator-level encryption. Image number (0018_admin). Activating recorder... Beginning video record.
<Background glitches>
<Background becomes tinted green with noise as recording activates>
Doctor	...... ...... While I slept, the ruins of our homeland nurtured new life. Originium is what guides their development, reshaping the lifeforms from Talos-II to have a similar appearance to us. I am rather fortunate. I have been able to leap across the millennia to communicate with them. I have even considered myself one of the people of this land for a time, experiencing their past and future. But in the end, I am not of here. I have even begun to feel... uneasy about Theresa's efforts. If the Originium Project ends in failure, no, even if it is merely postponed for some time... Theresa, Kal'tsit, even the future that I promised to Amiya... The inhabitants of this planet, some of the few lifeforms known to us, are but illusions that will break at the slightest touch. I have been lying to them and to myself for a very long time now. But... how will I explain it to Kal'tsit? Or to Theresa, or Amiya? Am I supposed to tell them that all the pain they have been through is the key to their salvation, and they must stop fighting? That all of Terran civilization is a fleeting dream, and only by being assimilated into Originium will we have the opportunity to avert our fate? Seeing the lives of those they call the Infected dissipate like smoke brings pain to my heart. It has long been a common sight on Terra, but it always marks the end of life—sorrowful and cruel. It has been too long since I've heard a voice full of life. I can't just see them as unexpected sparks. But what I see cannot be called a warrior's death. Rather, they have given in to the Originium's assimilation, passing through death to join the Assimilated Universe, a chance where life can break through the deepest darkness. Should I bow in silence at their deaths...? Or should I quietly rejoice at the smooth progression of the project? It is for this reason that Theresa dedicates herself to her research. Kal'tsit, our AMa-10, has also chosen to believe in the potential of Terra, chosen to resist Originium and put an end to war... But what about me? The Originium Project was built upon the efforts of countless generations, and in that time, billions of our compatriots have died, all in exchange for a mere ten thousand years that I have spent waiting and waiting. And now, the flint and tinder are in my hands. After all the long years. How could I abandon it? Because Terra has left me pleasantly surprised in a few short years? Because of the choices that Theresa and Kal'tsit made? Even if Amiya has moved me to compassion, would I not have been the selfish one all along? They... awakened me to be their salvation, but in truth, I am destined to bring them to annihilation. They awakened me, their destroyer, as if I were their savior... (Chokes back tears) Amiya... Kal'tsit... What should I do? Priestess... What should I do?
<Background fades to black>
Perhaps I should reveal everything to Kal'tsit and Theresa. Originium has led them down roughly the correct path. Arrogant though it may be, this has been sufficient for these souls to perform a new kind of miracle.
<Background fades to white>
Perhaps I must re-examine Theresa and Kal'tsit's plan. Babel's research has proceeded faster than expected, but Terra's political structure is rather primitive, and Babel does not yet have the ability to transcend the barriers of race and nation so that it may represent Terra as a whole.
<Background fades to black>
Believe in Terra. Believe in the people to build their own future.
<Background fades to white>
Carry on with the project. At least the vestiges of those who came before can live on within Originium.
<Background fades to black>
Believe in her.
<Background fades to white>
Stop her.
Priestess	Well, how could I ever blame you? I understand your dilemma. Our debates are far beyond what those little lifeforms known as humans could participate in. But this is the only way. You and I both know that much. If, perhaps, we still have time before Its return, we can envision things together, achieve them together. Describe anything and everything within the boundaries of the universe together. I hope that in those fragile moments, you will always stand by my side. You will, won't you?
<Background glitches>
<Background 2>
Scout	And that concludes my report, Your Highness.
Theresa	The Military Commission seems to be certain we will retake region C8-10's village and supplies, but by building an outpost there, they have already fallen into a trap.
Scout	There are, however, some officers who have begun to use tactics completely different from Manfred's. This is highly irregular. Our spies have reported seeing Nachzehrers entering the troops' camp.
Theresa	Nezzsalem... What does the Doctor make of it?
Scout	The Doctor believes that no matter how the Sarkaz God of War intends to participate in this conflict, our arrangements will be thrown into complete disarray.
Theresa	What about you?
Scout	Everyone is well aware that many members of the Royal Court have always favored the Military Commission, which advocates for reprisals and violence. But on account of certain restrictions—ones that you might even call rules of convention—none of them are willing to participate in the civil war. If the sovereigns were to decide to wage war upon us in Kazdel, those Sarkaz who have not yet returned would once more be unable to find Babel on the map. Practically speaking, if the Court sides against us, the military gap will be concerning. Plus those that support us are, for the most part, not warriors or soldiers. For many of our troops, this is the first time they have ever held a weapon. This is why I must speak my mind. No matter how you look at the facts, our situation is changing dramatically.
Kal'tsit	......
Theresa	I understand. Keep monitoring the Nachzehrer Court.
Kal'tsit	If Nezzsalem is no longer holding back, then Duq'arael is likely to act as well.
Scout	For three weeks in a row, "the Rose Riverbank has no ships."
Theresa	The Rose Riverbank is a most excellent spy network. They are able to deceive anyone they so wish, except for their sovereign lord. Tell them to pull out immediately. Leave Kazdel if they must. Lie low in other lands.
Scout	It will be done. I'll take my leave then, Highness.
[Scout exits the room.]
Kal'tsit	The Royal Court. They possess the most direct capacity to use force. Nezzsalem only agreed to hand over command because he was promised a war that would reshape the land. Although rather troublesome, it is a challenge that we would have had to face sooner or later, if we were to achieve all that we hope for.
Theresa	Babel does not blindly reject violence. It is clear to us all that if necessary, we must use force to defend our beliefs. But this also means that the Sarkaz will further devour themselves, venting the hate they hold for the land by setting themselves ablaze. It will mean the end of us.
Kal'tsit	Defeating the Military Commission will not solve all our problems. We must give closure to those Sarkaz who have grown up knowing only hatred and suffering, in other regards as well. As for Oripathy and Originium, we—
[Someone knocks at the door.]
Theresa	Please, enter.
[Ascalon walks into the room, followed by two mercenaries.]
Ascalon	Your Highness.
Ines & W	......
Theresa	Your wounds have not yet fully healed, Ascalon. There is no need for you to make your report in person.
Ascalon	I've recovered. Besides, this is top priority. Hoederer's team has successfully intercepted a witchcraft decoder. The Doctor has already begun deciphering our enemy's codes. I believe we should see results soon.
Theresa	Is that so...? Ines. W. You have done very well.
W	......!
Ines	Thank you, Your Highness. I hope we'll crack our enemy's comms as quickly as possible, so we can plan our next ops.
Theresa	Where is your captain, by the way?
Ines	Hoederer took a few flesh wounds, nothing too serious. He's getting treated in the infirmary right now.
Theresa	If that is the case, then I will not waste your time. Go to him.
Ines	Of course. Thank you kindly, Highness.
[Ines exits the room.]
W	......
Ascalon	W.
W	Eh? What?
Ascalon	Go to Hoederer.
W	Oh. I... Alright, got it. Guess he still ain't dead...
[W follows after Ines.]
Ascalon	If that is all, Your Highness, I have other business—
Theresa	That reminds me... I still haven't thought of a real name for the girl, have I?
<Background fades out>
1093, Winter Weather/Rainy Kazdel Border, Kazdel
The Doctor listens to the pitter-patter of the rain on the leaves, eyes closed. Drip. Drop. The Doctor's heart rages, filled with torment. A fowlbeast cries out in the distance.
???	Answer my questions, or die here.
Doctor	Ask away.
???	Are you betraying Babel?
Doctor	I've never been a Babel member, but I've also never abandoned them to face their struggles alone.
???	Why have you come to me?
Doctor	I have a request.
???	I will not speak to a myth with no name... evil spirit. Who are you?
Doctor	...{nickname}. Doctor {nickname}.
Theresis	...{nickname}.
Theresis lowers his weapon, the rain falling from the corners of his eyes onto the earth. He does not look at the one who invited him to this clandestine meeting, instead gazing upwards at the colossal statues of so-called heroes. Statues raised to commemorate the founding of the nomadic city of Kazdel by a pair of twins. Even after a hundred years, his stone self still stands, sword drawn, by her side, despite the best efforts of Catastrophe and storm.
Theresis	Not long after she had crushed the rebellion that sought to destroy the new city, the joyful people of Kazdel invited us to witness the unveiling of these two statues. (Ancient Sarkaz language) Heroes. They were to watch over the border we had marked with our own two hands for generations to come, warning our foes, welcoming our friends. I once swore an oath to her below her statue. My sword would behead all who stand against her.
The Doctor stares at the statue of Theresis, gaze unbreaking.
Doctor	Does the Military Commission not stand against her?
Theresis	No. There is no part of Kazdel that has truly risen up against her. Her foe is me, and me alone. And what of you?
Doctor	......
Theresis looks at the figure before him: Rainwater gathering at the hem of a long, hooded coat, rhythmically dripping onto the ground. The shallow puddles below ripple as falling drops strike them.
Theresis	You ought to remember that most Sarkaz who once lived here have long since died, lost to history. There are only a handful left who know how to find this place. You came here on foot. How far have you walked?
Doctor	Very far.
Theresis	You have broken the witchcraft cipher created by Manfred's team that he's so proud of.
Doctor	I did that a long time ago. I just never told anybody. Even Theresa believes that I only began my work recently. Meaning, I'm in possession of nearly all of the Military Commission's battle plans. So I created this opportunity to meet you. Alone.
Theresis	You are confident that I would not kill the strategist who poses the greatest threat?
Doctor	I am confident that what I'm about to offer is worth enough that you wouldn't. Technology that can control Originium.
Theresis	......
Doctor	How far can you go under so much pressure from Victoria? How do you plan to completely change the Sarkaz, and even this entire land? I can give you the answer you need.
Theresis	You are a boastful one. So, what is it you wish me to do, evil spirit?
[Thunder booms ominously.]
Doctor	...Destroy Babel. Scatter her followers. Let Theresa in on your plans. Unify the Sarkaz under a Kazdel ruled by the Military Commission.
The Doctor has imagined the emotions that speaking these words would incite, many times over. "Destroy Babel"... Only a sense of relief came over the Doctor.
Theresis	......
The Doctor stares at the statue of Theresa, unmoving, without the slightest hint of emotion.
Theresis	She and I have never relied on the charity of our enemies, in the course of leading Kazdel to where it stands today. It is true that this war will only end with the decisive defeat of one of us. But you should not be the one to propose it. Proceed. Tell me more of why you would make this request, evil spirit of an age long gone.
Doctor	You already know. There are no surprises here. Considering the near two hundred years you and Theresa spent working together, you should be able to guess. I seek... the expansion of Originium. Babel's struggles will only prolong the dying gasps of this land, Theresis. No matter if you resist it or accept it, Originium will take on myriad forms, drawing all of civilization into her embrace. Have you ever... looked up at the sky?
Theresis	......
Doctor	Beyond that sky, far beyond the twin moons, there is a place that we would once return to, where we would sleep peacefully. But I am the only one left, here speaking with you. In the course of the Sarkaz's eternal search for the remains of dead gods to fend off your enemies, have you ever wondered...? Why did those gods die?
The rain intensifies. The Doctor draws tight that trademark hood, and stands below the towering statues. The shadows of the statues envelop the Doctor, making this figure seem ever more insignificant. Theresis suddenly feels that the one standing before him in the rain is even harder to read than before.
Doctor	The burden I bear is greater than the future of the Sarkaz. If I must destroy some things to create a ladder I hope for... I will do it. It's all I can do. I've already hesitated for far too long.
Theresis	Destroy some things, to create a ladder... You speak lightly of sacrifice.
Doctor	Nothing light here, Theresis. Believe me when I say, you couldn't even conceive of what I've been through.
Theresis	...... And where do I see your sincerity for our cooperation?
Doctor	Is the Shard not enough for you? Otherwise, even with the help of the Confessarii, you—
Theresis	It is not. It is far from enough, evil spirit. It is only enough to spare your life. Only enough to stop me, leader of the Military Commission, from killing a fated foe here and now. I require an even more direct means to advance this war to the next stage.
Doctor	......
Theresis	If you wish for the Babel members to be spared, then so be it. The Military Commission promises you that as long as Babel concedes defeat and departs Kazdel, we will not exterminate those who desert or surrender. But you know what you must do in return.
Doctor	No... You can't...
Theresis	Who would have thought that the evil spirit, who so roused the interest of the Nachzehrer King, would be such a coward? You can't both let Theresa live and allow the Babel members to leave safely; it's a total contradiction. Only with the destruction of Babel and the complete eradication of its members can Theresa leave for Londinium with me. Otherwise, it would merely be a case of the Military Commission quashing and dispersing yet another group of civilians, migrants, and pacifists. Even without my order, such things will happen naturally. Perhaps you believe that Theresa would be willing to step back and watch it before her eyes? She will not. And so she will resist. You know what I ask of you. If you truly wish to save the many who stand by your side, make them willingly admit defeat and surrender to me... Then slay their king.
Doctor	......
Theresis	And then, I will allow Babel to leave. As it collapses, it will no longer be considered a Sarkaz endeavor, and it will grow weak, drifting to the edges of civilization. "Destroy some things to create a ladder", {nickname}. ...... You're right. There is nothing light about this.
Doctor	...... In your opinion, what is the meaning behind this civil war? What meaning would her death hold?
Theresis	Reclaiming our lands, rebuilding our homes, ending discrimination, and revitalizing our race. You will have heard these platitudes many times. They are too complex, and yet too simple. Merely a small and pitiful species trying to grasp their fate.
Doctor	I see. In that case, I will tip the scales of destiny. Destroy Babel, divide them, weaken them. Allow them to return to their former lives, so that they can know a moment of peace in the final century. That way... we don't have to kill Theresa. Or at the very least, we can minimize the loss of life.
Theresis	Fretting over violence serves only to stifle you. You understand the Sarkaz better than most, but perhaps still not well enough. I have a question myself, Dr. {nickname}. Evil spirit of a bygone age, you who call yourself a giant, a god, a supreme creator, one who can dictate the fate of the Sarkaz. Are you the only one of your kind?
Doctor	...I am.
Theresis	That is good to know. Go, now, without guilt, and do what you have decided to do. If you worry there will be no one to tear you down from your lofty heights, or judge your sins. Don't. I will do it, evil spirit. Until there are none left to toy with our fate.
<Background fades out>
The Doctor listens to the splashing of the puddles behind, the sound of footsteps fading into the distance. Theresis is gone, wishing to stay not a moment longer.
Pale sunlight begins to seep through the gaps between the statues. The Doctor cannot feel the slightest bit of warmth from it. The heroes continue to gaze into the distance. They do not look beneath their feet. There stands a figure who does not leave for a long, long time.

After operation

Summary After many years, Theresis finally prepares for his departure to Londinium. Ascalon attempts to stop him, to no avail. Theresa believes in the future of Babel.
Early 1094 The nomadic city of Kazdel, Kazdel
<Background 1>
[Theresis is walking down the street when Manfred catches up to him.]
Manfred	Please wait, General!
Theresis	You are too impatient.
Manfred	But General! The Duke's envoy was almost ready to spit on—
Theresis	Did we get what we wanted?
Manfred	We got partial usage rights for the industrial area and the right to cross the border... but did it have to be so humiliating? The Victorian dukes have you at their beck and call, treating us Sarkaz like tamed beasts. This is not what our soldiers redeployed from the civil war were promised, General!
Theresis	Is this not all that we desired? Perhaps you would prefer the Victorians treat the Sarkaz as their greatest enemy from the beginning, banding together to face us?
Manfred	I understand. I know it's necessary for our enemies to think us weak, but this... Many within our ranks feel this is terribly dishonorable—
Theresis	Did I promise them honor? Do the Sarkaz have honor in the eyes of the Victorians? You have been far too impetuous lately, Manfred.
Manfred	......
Theresis	Dignity is of high import. You fight for the rights of your men, and thus do people respect you. Were these ordinary times, perhaps I too would commend you. But do you remember what we are here to do? We are preparing to steal the heart of a nation. To bring the greatest empire on this great land to its knees. Their prejudices have left them weak, and the Sarkaz are in hunger. What we truly need is neither honor nor respect.
Manfred	...I understand.
Theresis	Are our men prepared?
Manfred	Ready to depart at a moment's notice. Our people sent in advance to Londinium will support us. The final deadline for our arrival as dictated by the Duke of Cavendish's request is fast approaching. We can set out at any time.
Theresis	Good. Then we march to destroy Victoria.
<Background 2>
[Manfred approaches the two guards in the hall.]
Manfred	Have you been on duty this entire time?
Military Commission Guard	Yes, sir.
Manfred	...... Stand down for now. I wish to be alone for a while.
Military Commission Guard	Of course, sir.
[The guards leave.]
Manfred	......
Once the guards leave, Manfred takes out a wine glass he had placed to the side.
Manfred	Care for a drink?
[He looks to Ascalon, who is standing in the shadows.]
Ascalon	You never drank before.
Manfred	I still don't. But the General has ordered me to learn Victorian "etiquette", all preparation for our upcoming duty. I have learnt rather recently that every meal those nobles pair every meal with multiple kinds of wine, each requiring its own unique glass.
[Manfred pauses and smiles.]
Manfred	Remember when we were young and the General led us to an ancient battlefield for swordplay? The night was cold, and only after the General made some soup did we realize we had nothing to hold it in. Thankfully, the battlefield was nothing short of spent shells, and you used those to fashion four cups. You, me, the General, and Her Highness, carrying cups made out of shell casings while sitting in front of the fire.
Ascalon	I remember. It was a peaceful night.
Manfred	Just like this one.
The frigid moonlight of late winter falls through the window. Manfred rests his hand upon his sword hilt that was equally as cold. The air is still, and the two of them can hear the other's heartbeat.
[Ascalon approaches him.]
Ascalon	You're going to Londinium tomorrow.
Manfred	I know you wished to see the General.
Ascalon	......
Manfred	And you couldn't. Otherwise, you wouldn't have come to see me.
Ascalon	I gave up. I found that when I caught a glimpse of him from a distance, the first thought that came to my mind was that I should kill him, there and then.
Manfred	Then you should applaud yourself for maintaining some reason. And so you decided to come to me?
Ascalon	I heard you've improved your swordsmanship. Why don't we see for ourselves?
Manfred	I've never been able to best you.
Ascalon	Don't beg for mercy before you've even fallen.
Manfred	...... There was the one time we fought in Her Highness's study. We knocked down an entire bookshelf, and the General took our weapons away and made us tidy up the room within thirty minutes. I knew that you did it on purpose, wanting attention from Their Highnesses.
Ascalon	Is that so?
<Background darkens>
Ascalon hides herself away into the shadows in the blink of an eye. Another blink, and Manfred feels a chill running across the side of his neck. He didn't have the time to draw his sword and fight back. He didn't have the time to even think about fighting back. Perhaps he was too tired?
Ascalon	If I cut your neck here, at least there will be no need for you to die in Londinium. I can just throw your corpse into the furnace. It would spare many from dying on a distant battlefield in a foreign land.
Manfred	If you've made your decision, then kill me here. It will be your final chance.
Ascalon	...... You've made yours, I see.
Manfred	The General says you lack conviction, but I don't think he is entirely correct.
Ascalon	You shouldn't speak so much when someone has your life in her hands.
Manfred	It is only recently that I've realized I'm not as resolute as you. We have been brought to where we are by the invisible tides of fate, but ever since the day this war started... There is no going back for us.
Ascalon	...... Then do your best to survive. I won't hold back next time.
<Background returns to normal>
The silent assassin stows her blade up her sleeve, then slowly steps back into the shadows.
Manfred	...Neither will I. If only this was our last meeting.
Rhodes Island of Babel, Kazdel
<Background 3>
A cold wind scatters the thick clouds of late winter, allowing sunlight to peek through the gaps and spread out across the bridge of the ship. Down the stairs, Ascalon stands unmoving by a guardrail. She shuts her eyes tight, enjoying the fleeting warmth of the sunshine. Above the stairs, there is a clear rustling of cloth dragging against the ground. A shadow flit across the assassin's face, blocking out the rays of sunlight.
Theresa	Sorry Ascalon, did I disturb your rest? I thought I wouldn't make any sound, if I took off my shoes.
Ascalon	No. You are welcome at any time. The ground's cold. You should put your shoes back on, Your Highness.
[Theresa puts her shoes back on.]
Theresa	Nothing you wish to tell me, Ascalon?
Ascalon	You mean...?
Theresa	The reason you returned to Kazdel.
Ascalon	...It was my own decision. I thought you wouldn't agree, and I didn't know how to bring it up with Your Highness...
Theresa	Why would I not agree, Ascalon? Since it was your decision, I would trust your judgement. Did you manage to see them?
Ascalon	...Manfred and Theresis are both well.
Theresa	I can believe that. They're strong men. We should finish our preparations soon as well. The operation to retake Kazdel isn't too far off now.
Ascalon	......
Theresa	Why does your brow seem even more furrowed than before?
Ascalon	Our recent combat plans have been radical, and they've won us some battles too. Still, I've been feeling uneasy. Babel has changed a lot, especially...
Theresa	Yes?
Ascalon	The Doctor. The Doctor has changed a lot too... become more efficient, more clinical. It's like... the Doctor's now a machine that never makes mistakes.
Theresa	That's just what a commander should be, no? Why would that make you worry?
Ascalon	We've got an incredible commander now, sure... But I think I trust the weirdo who kept falling off a burdenbeast more. Is now really the best time to attack Kazdel, Your Highness?
Theresa	Your intuition has always been on the mark.
Ascalon	You've had your worries too?
Theresa	...... Do you remember? We've faced countless insurmountable odds over the years, but we've overcome them all. I believe that we can go through what comes next as well.
Ascalon	We've always been in danger, yes...
Theresa	Babel carries the hopes of many, Ascalon. Faith has gotten us this far, and we cannot stop now. We have always been at a disadvantage against the Military Commission. Now, most of their forces have redeployed to Londinium. It is a one-of-a-kind opportunity. We have no choice.
Ascalon	...... I will be at your side, keeping you safe.
Theresa	No, Ascalon. In the future, you must go further afield, to protect others. Relax for now, and bask in the sunlight for a moment.
Ascalon	Your Highness...
Theresa	Oh, right, remember to not always rest on your feet. If you're tired, you should go and enjoy a nice nap in your room.
Ascalon	I'll remember.
Theresa	Hm...
[Theresa walks away.]
The sunlight shines upon Ascalon's face once more. It is bright and warm. But the moment the shadow faded away, she suddenly felt some peculiar emotion flooding through her chest. At the time, she was unable to describe what it was. It dawned on her many years later, on another sunny day. It was an unwillingness to part ways.
Londinium, Victoria
<Background 4>
Victorian Soldier	Mercenaries! Message from His Grace the Duke: Storming Londinium like this was well done. Assemble in Central in an hour. You'll be reviewed there, then you'll receive your bounty. Hey! Did you get all that?
[Theresis walks up to the soldier.]
Theresis	Yes. Your orders have been received. Do let the Duke know on my behalf that we will be there on time. The Sarkaz thank him for his generosity.
Victorian Soldier	Hmph. Uppity devils...
[The soldier storms off.]
Theresis	......
It could well be a rare fine day in Londinium, if it were not for the gun smoke filling the air. From atop the towering city walls, one can see the entire lay of this ancient city. The General in his bloodstained uniform says not a word, his gaze fixed on the great edifice in the center of the city. In the skies above Londinium, a dark cloud floats by.