Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

War, war never changes.

That's what everyone told me, and I believe them. Knowing nothing of this world but that I had somehow survived sudden death gave me a new perspective. Fresh eyes.

Despite not remembering anything I managed to create something for myself. Find new friends, family even, and all the hardships that come with it. I fought with and against different factions and tried my best to help those that I came across. Along the way I met an array of unique individuals both new and familiar, I made amends and occasionally caused some trouble along the way.

In the end I made my choice and had the manpower to back up my decision. The NCR means well but are in no way able enough to take care of the Mojave. They're spread too thin and have no care for the people here.

And who ever said an army of robots was a bad idea? Well Caesar did but his opinion doesn't mean much anymore.

With Yes Man, we were able to take down the legion and set the record straight with the NCR, giving freedom back to New Vegas and the Mojave.

The fighting was finally over and after was the real struggle, the rebuilding.

With Veronica and the Brotherhood of Steel and an army of robots we were able to do a decent job scaring off any leftover legion members and any fiends that strayed too close to any settlements. Besides that I was able to get the Boomers to help establish electricity and better water sources for the major settlements, after much convincing of course.

While annoyed, the NCR and New Vegas stayed on good terms due to all the help I provided. So while still present in the Mojave they weren't trying to take over any more making the rangers and them a somewhat welcomed presence.

After this I was able to help the Followers of the Apocalypse reach out to more people and provide help to those in need with Arcade at the head of our efforts and Cassidy's new caravan as the main supplier.

So maybe war never changes but people do and that's all that matters sometimes.

In the end, the Mojave was able to do well enough for itself with settlements from big to small being able to get by. And with Yes Man being able to run New Vegas I was left with a lot of free time, too much free time.

I never was big on staying in one place for a long time and wanderlust was pulling at my limbs. With everything going well in the Mojave I decided it was a good time for a change of scenery. I am a courier after all, so I figure it's time to make my way east.

—--

“Hey Ed-e! Have you seen my rebreather? If we're going all the way to the east coast I'll probably need it.” Courier Six, also known as Kane, a name they picked for themselves, questioned as they checked through a variety of drawers and cabinets.

Ed-e whirls over lightly bumping Kane in the back as they beep at them.

“Oh, I forgot I lent it to Raul so he could tinker with it.” They sigh and glance over to their mostly packed bag, “I guess I do have to start saying goodbye to everyone.”

Walking over they go to double check their backpack and satchel for everything.

“Ammo check. Caps check. Medical supplies check. Food and water check…”

They get through everything and close up their backpack. After they put both bags on and sling their beloved sniper rifle over their shoulder as they walk to the hotel door of Novac and get ready to open the door. Turning to look at E-de they give him a large grin, “You coming or what?”

E-de beeps happily and flys over, bumping their shoulder.

Laughing, Courier Six opens the hotel door and steps outside.

Outside they run into Boone.

“Hi Boone!” They shout gleefully, waving back and forth as they run over.

“You headed out?” He asks as they come to a stop in front of him.

“You know it!” They exclaim, “I'm ready for a change of scenery you know?”

“I don't, but whatever makes you happy. I'm glad you found something that gives you purpose.” He says, his lips slightly upturned.

“I guess you could call it that, thanks! Make sure to take care of yourself.”

Boone crosses his arms, looking away “All right but I'll probably just be here, I'm still figuring things out.”

Kane smiles sadly, “I'm sure you'll figure it out just give it time. The world is your oyster!” They say in an upbeat tone.

Boone laughs lightly, “Alright adventurer, whatever you say. Don't get yourself killed ok?”

“Ok, see you later alright?” Kane says assuredly as they turn to leave with Ed-e by their side.

“Yup, you better come back ok? And good luck out there!” Boone responded.

“Thanks!” Kane shouts as they walk out of the gate and away from Novac.

—--

“You know Ed-e, I probably should have checked here first.” Kane says as they push open the door to Raul's shack.

Ed-e beeps cheekily at them.

“I know! You don't have to say I told you so!”

Turning they then shout out, “Hey Raul, are you here!”

“In the back!” They hear a gravelly voice call out.

Walking into what appears to be a workshop Kane gives Raul a smile when they see him at a work bench fiddling with a remodeled pistol. “You know you've really outdone yourself with the place! I hope business has been booming.”

Raul turns to look at them putting the gun down. “You here for the rebreather? And yes business has been great, thanks for getting word around boss I've been getting some neat pieces of machinery; it's almost too much for this old man.”

“It's the least I can do for you after all the times you've repaired my half destroyed equipment, I'm glad it's going well.”

Raul hands Kane the rebreather in better condition than when they gave it to him, “I know you've been talking about leaving but, you know boss, you could just settle down. You've already had quite an eventful few years.”

Raul gets up from his chair to properly face the Courier “You're the one that helped me decide to finally stop shop and settle down as a mechanic rather than fighting away as a gunslinger.”

Kane sighs, “I tried Raul but I just can't sit still, no one needs my help and there's nowhere left for me to explore in the Mojave. I need something new.”

Kane looks down, shuffling their feet, “ I care about the Mojave but I'm not happy, I want to help other people and see new things! You get that right? From your gunslinger days?”

Raul crosses his arms and looks up in contemplation, “I guess you're still pretty young boss, your golden years are still ahead of you. These old bones aren't built for that anymore but I see where you're coming from.”

Raul grasps Kane’s shoulder and gives them a grin, “You should do what makes you happy. I'll still be here when you decide to come back to the Mojave.”

Kane's eyes crinkled as they smile, “I'm glad you understand. Thank you for everything.”

“Now, now don't go acting like you're dying boss, here” Raul grabs the modified pistol from the table, “I've been working on this for a while, it's got a few modifications that should be useful. Take care of yourself alright?”

Kane grins cheekily, tucking the pistol into their belt, “Hey, if a bullet to the head couldn't kill me I don't think anything can!”, their grin softens, “I'll be okay and I'll be back alright? The Mojave’s still my home so I'll see you later alright?”

Raul chuckles dryly, “Alright boss.”

“Take care!” Kane shouts as they head out the door waving goodbye, Ed-e following behind.

Raul shakes his head fondly and turns around back to his work and the door clicks shut.

—--

The dry desert heat invades the air creating a hazy reflection that causes the sky and earth to merge together as the Courier and Ed-e make their trek across the Mojave.

The heat does nothing to slow the pair down as they make good time to their destination.

“You know Jack? From the Boomers? He agreed to fly me to the east coast because I helped him get with his fiancé Janet.” Kane says as they and Ed-e make their way across the Mojave.

Ed-e beeps suspiciously at them.

Kane laughs awkwardly, rubbing the back of their neck, "After a lot of convincing..." they mumble.

“I figured it would be fun to start there and work my way back west. Everything will be a new experience, you know?”

They smile gleefully and do a little skip, “I can't wait to see everything from the sky!” It must be nice to fly around all the time, huh bud?"

Ed-e whirls happily in response.

They turn to look back at E-de, “Plus the Boomers want to go looking for more plane parts so they can keep making more planes. They're getting really good at it!”

Kane looks over and pouts, “I just wish they would let me try one of their flight simulators but they're still pretty tight lipped about that.”

The courier sighs, “Anyways, I can't wait to say hi to Ulysses real quick before we leave. He really has been keeping to himself so it would be good to let him know I'm leaving.”

E-de beeps sadily then questioningly.

“You're right, I should offer him my room at Novac! He spends so much time in the divide, he could use some social interaction besides me, especially because I will be gone for a while.” Kane exclaims.

“But first I do need to stop in Freeside to talk to Arcade and Veronica so we better get a move on.”

Ed-e beeps affirmingly and speeds up to match Kanes pace.

—--

By the time they get to freeside the sun is about to set. Kane waves hello to the guards as they make their way inside.

“I guess we'll be spending the night huh Ed-e?”

Ed-e beeps questioningly.

“Yes we could travel at night but I want to be awake for the flight so I can really take it all in. This is a once in a lifetime experience!”

Kane exclaims taking a turn into the Followers of the Apocalypse's communal area.

Glancing around they smile at seeing how well everything is going now the Followers have good supplies. Looking further at the tents they spot Arcade and Veronica talking and start walking over.

“Would you be willing to spare some soldiers to escort a group of Followers to Jacobstown? Fiends have been seen in the area recently.”

“Of course Arcade! I'm sure others would be happy to help. Plus they would get a chance to talk with Doctor Henry about his work with the mutants and stealth boys.” Veronica says happily. Turning at the sound of footsteps she sees the Courier and a big grin stretches across her face.

“Kane!” She rushes to give them a big hug, “I'm going to miss you so much! You better come back here! It would be boring without you. Oh! And when you're gone if you see any pretty dresses could you get them for me please! And please be careful! You're already half scars, you don't need anymore injuries!” Veronica rambles on hugging them tightly as she tenses up.

“Be careful, okay, you're one of my best friends. I'd hate to see you hurt. If you die I'll bring you back just to scold you, you hear?” Veronica exclaims, frowning.

“Alright, alright. I'll be careful, you know me, it would take a dozen deathclaws to take me down!” Kane answers with a smile.

Veronica relaxes, smiling, “You're right, make sure to have fun and get back before we're both old and wrinkly okay! This place may fall apart without you.”

“I'm sure you all will be fine and I'll be back!” Kane grins as Veronica lets them go.

Another voice chimes in, “You better be and you better not get hurt, I already have to patch you up every other day. You don't need to be stumbling back here half dead.” Arcade scolds, walking over to them.

“You should be careful but I know you already know that so here are a few extra stimpaks for the road.” He states handing some stimpaks over to Kane.

“Thanks.”

“Of course. Now do you have any injury that needs fixing before you head out?” Arcade questions with a raised eyebrow.

“Nope I'm as fit as a fiddle! Whatever that is!” Kane assures, patting Arcade on the back.

Arcade sighs exasperatedly, “if you say so, there should be a bed for you in one of the tents, you should get some rest. Goodbyes can be saved for the morning.”

“Alright all see you both in the morning okay?” Kane says waving as they walk off to discuss more topics.

“Sleep well.” Arcade replies.

Veronica yells “good night!”

Kane goes to their usual tent as Ed-e flys off to explore while they sleep. Setting their gear down they settle in for the night.

Chapter Text

Light peaks in through the canvas wall as the cool morning air greets Kane. As awareness finds them they hear mechanical barking and are tackled by a furry friend.

“Rex! Who's a good boy!”

Rex barks happily, wagging his tail joyfully.

Veronica walks in. “He was waiting outside so I figured he wanted to say goodbye before you left.”

“Aw, did you come to say goodbye Rex?”

Rex wines sadly as they curl up in the Courier's lap.

“I'm sorry boy but you're better off here with the King. He would miss you if you left. Plus who else is going to protect Freeside?”

Veronica gives a half hearted hey as Rex perks up and starts to wag his tail again.

“Well take care buddy, make sure to keep everyone in check alright?”

Rex jumps off the bed and spins in a circle barking before walking out of the tent presumably back out into Freeside.

Veronica walks closer as the Courier gets out of bed. “Guess this is goodbye huh? Don't forget what I said alright?” She says sadly, pulling them in for a soft hug.

“Hey, this isn't goodbye, it's just see you later. I promise I'll be back before you know it.” Kane responds, hugging Veronica tightly.

“I'll hold you to it.” Veronica agrees letting them go. “Well I have to get back to the Brotherhood so we can keep things running, be safe!” She exclaims going to walk out the tent.

“You too!” Kane replies. After they get all of their stuff together and make their way out of the tent. Outside they are greeted by Ed-e and Arcade who puts a hand out.

Kane grasps it and gives it a squeeze.

Arcade mumbles, “try not to get hurt alright? You need to take better care of yourself, I'm saying this as your main medical provider.”

Kane laughs quietly, “Alright, I promise to try my best.”

“That's all I ask, until next time.”

Kane smiles warmly, “Until next time.”

Letting go, Kane waves as Arcade wanders back off to his work. Kane and Ed-e head out of Freeside and start the long trek to the divide.

—--

“Ed-e I'm so glad I already took care of the deathclaws through this area or this trip would have been an absolute nightmare!” Kane sighs as they munch on an apple they got from one of the freeside residents.

Ed-e beeps in agreement as they fly ahead of the Courier.

Kane continues to enjoy their apple as Ed-e makes a noise to alert them of something. Looking at the robot questioningly they hear the sound of a brahmin and turn back to see a traveling caravan with a very familiar driver.

“Cass! It's good to see you. I didn't think I'd run into you before I left.” They exclaim.

“Think you can get rid of me that easily, eh? Well here I am. Want one last drink for the road?” She asks grabbing a bottle of whisky from the cart behind her.

“No but I could use a ride to the divide if you don't mind?” They question, giving the last of their apple to the brahmin who munches on it happily.

“That isn't to far from where I'm headed so I guess I can give you a lift.” She responds, faking contemplation.

Kane smiles, “Thank you so much Cass!” They exclaim as the climb onto the cart.

The cart starts moving again and Cass stays focused on the path ahead.

“So why are you headed to the divide, that seems like the opposite place you need to be last I heard?” She questions, glancing over.

“You're right but I wanted to say goodbye to Ulysses.”

“Oh, the quiet fellow. He's more of the solitary type isn't he?”

“Yes he normally likes to stick to himself but he's pretty nice when you get to know him!” Kane explains.

“Right, well I'll take you there. Would you want me to help you get back to Nellis?”

“I'm alright. You're already helping out a lot by taking me to the divide so thanks!”

Cass frowns but nods, “Ok, if you're sure.”

After that the rest of the ride is spent in a comfortable silence as the sun takes its time crossing the sky. It isn't even half way across by the time the trio get to the entrance of the divide.

“I guess this is where we part. Keep an eye out for danger ok. Can never be too careful.” Cass says as Kane gets off the cart.

“You know me, I'm always careful.” Kane replies cheekily.

Cass let's out a sharp laugh, “Yeah right! Come back in one piece and maybe we can have a drink next time!”

“Of course! Take care!”

They both wave at each other as Cass rides off. Kane turns and makes their way into the divide.

—--

Inside the remnants of the old world right near the entrance they find Ulysses's camp. The air here was thicker, an all present toxicity that the bombs and radiation poisoned the land with. Despite not remembering their past Kane found the long treaded path nostalgic and, with what Ulysses had told them before, familiar.

A dull pain filled their chest at the thought, what they had done to this place. The guilt never left them despite their lack of recollection. They tried to make it right by occasionally going through the divide to put the lost souls to rest but it was never enough.

They could never truly fix what had happened here but they could visit Ulysses, their old friend and at one point enemy, however brief. The last true person to call this place home.

He never turned them away despite their flaws or ramblings and was always willing to give advice. Kane felt guilt eat away at their insides knowing that they would be leaving Ulysses to his solitude. They truly hoped that he would accept their offer of staying in Novac, he could use the company and shouldn't feel forced to stay here alone.

Ulysses was never the most social but they saw how he enjoyed their chats, how he liked to dive into stories and facts. So even if it was just a few visits they thought he could do with sometime out of the divide.

Their thoughts were interrupted by Ed-e beeping right by their ear causing them to squawk spinning to look at the cheeky robot. Ed-e beeped again and flew forward, drawing their attention to the figure standing near a cliffs edge looking over the clouded wastes of the divide.

“Hey Ulysses!” They shout walking over, Ed-e trailing behind.

“Courier, what brings you to the divide?”

“I can't just come to say hi?”

“That is very rarely the case for you Courier.”

“You're right… I'm here to tell you that I'm leaving the Mojave. And soon. Soon as in today or tomorrow.” They ramble off, “I ment to visit sooner but I got caught up in getting things in order. Sorry about that.”

“Leaving the Mojave you say. What journey will you be partaking in next then?” Ulysses asks in a questioning tone.

“I'll be flying over to the east coast so I can start there and make the trek back to the Mojave!” Kane explains excitedly.

“I figured because I'll be gone you might want to talk to some other people so I was going to offer you my room at Novac! Maybe you could talk with some of my friends. Swap stories you know? I think you and Boone might get along! …Ah wait, that might be a bad idea.” They ramble off, looking around.

“I just didn't want to leave you alone here, figured you might appreciate having some options, you know?” Kane goes on ringing their hands.

“I wish to come with you Courier.”

“I knew you would like the idea! —Wait you want to come with me?” Kane asks befuddled.

“Yes, there I could learn more of the old worlds history so let me accompany you on your journey.”

Kane smiles, “really!”

“Why else would I ask?” Ulysses tilts his head.

Kane’s smile widens, “This is great! No one else could come with me besides Ed-e. I'm happy to have another friend with me! Need help packing?”

“There is no need, just give me 15 minutes.” Ulysses replies walking over to a tent.

“Ok?” Kane responds a little confused at the lack of time and sits down to wait for Ulysses.

About 11 minutes later Ulysses emerges with a small satchel and his staff.

“I am ready to depart.”

“If you're sure. Once we get out of here we will make our way to the Nellis Air force base where our flight to the east is.” Kane says as the trio make their way out into the Mojave for one final trip before their departure.

The three make their way over to the entrance of the divide and Ulysses gestures to the entrance.

“After you, Courier.”

“Alright! Follow me.”

—--

The sun was setting as orange just barely started to streak across the blue sky. Kanes legs were aching after the long walk. This wasn't an unfamiliar feeling, it had been the norm for them to travel long distances quite often to try and get the different factions to work together before they end up killing each other. To be honest they quite enjoyed the travel and the smiles familiar sites and places brought to their face.

They also loved all the new things they saw like a pack of brahmin or wolf cubs. They were sure that if they stopped to pet one more stray wolf Ulysses was going to drag them the rest of the way there, he had never been one to dawdle.

Sighing, they leaned their head back and closed their eyes as they walked, Ed-e making sure they didn't go off track. They were bored and the extended quiet seemed like the perfect opportunity for a conversation.

“Have you been to the Nellis Air Force Base before?”

“In a way.”

“What does that mean?” Kane asks, confused, opening their eyes.

“I have never been in the base but I have seen it from a distance. The pilots are rather explosive.” Ulysses explains.

“I know what you mean! When I first got there they almost blew me up half a dozen times. Arcade was pissed! I ended up covered in bandages by the end of it.” Kane reminisces, glancing at Ulysses.

“How like you, Courier.” Ulysses responds neutrally.

“I don't know if I told you but you can call me Kane if you want. Only strangers call me courier.” Kane says, trailing off as they continue their walk, the walls of the base getting closer by the minute.

“Kane you say? Like Cain as in evil or like little soldier or perhaps another meaning?” Ulysses questions, looking over at them.

“Do you know about the burned man? Joshua Graham?”

“Yes, the one who earned his life. What of it.”

“Well before the battle of Hoover Dam I stumbled across him and a tribe called the Dead Horses. Long story short but I ended up helping them keep their home. At the end of it he asked about my name and when I said I didn't have one he said that Kane-- spelled kinda like the word for a walking stick, suited me.” They smile, “I asked him about it and you'd have thought he meant Cain based on his background but he told me the spelling and the meaning, little soldier.”

They continue quietly, “I had heard other names before… but this one stuck with me.”

“Little soldier suits you well, Kane.”

“Thanks… wait are you making fun of my height?”

“I am not one to joke, Courier.”

Ed-e beeps in what almost sounds like a laugh as they fly around the two.

Kane gawks, “You are! And call me by my name! We are friends I hope.”

“As you wish Kane.” Ulysses deadpans as they start to pick up the pace.

“Well we better get a move on then.” Kane shouts, rushing to catch up with Ulysses.

“Quite right, Kane.”

—--

The entrance to Nellis was as enforced and guarded as ever. Looking at the faces of the guards Kane saw plenty of familiar faces including the face of Jack who was smiling and waving at them from the other side.

After the guards quickly identify Kane the trio are let through the gate with a fairly friendly reception before the guards get back to work. They are then approached by Jack who gives them a light hearted laugh.

“I still don't know how you managed to talk Pearl into agreeing to this! I had my doubts at first but the more I thought about it the more interesting the idea seemed.” He comments.

Holding out a hand with a grin he continues, “I'm looking forward to our flight Kane, here's to hoping we both find what we're looking for.”

Kanes smiles back and gives him a firm handshake, “Here's to that.”

Letting go Kane continues, “When will we be headed out? I know it's gotten kinda late.” They question.

“We'll have to head out right at sunset. I know we won't be able to see as well but missing a few things is better than getting shot down. We have fewer people than we need to manage the guns and I can't really give you guys a crash course on it." He sighs then looks at them again.

"It's mostly because less weight, hopefully means less fuel, and we sure as hell aren't looking to start a fight with a trip this long so hopefully no guns needed. Anyways all we are doing is flying there, getting a look around on the way, dropping you off, then I head back."

He motions to Kane, “Plus you have those night vision goggles don't you, I remember you talking about that. You brought them right?”

Kane nods, “Yup, one of the first things I packed.”

“Then you will be the one looking out for old planes while I pilot. If I come back empty handed Pearl is going to be might angry with you, ya hear?” He urges.

Kane agrees half heartedly, smiling, “I know, I know. It's a mutual exchange. You take me across the continent and I help you find more plane parts, I got it.”

Jack sighs and responds somewhat bemused, “if you're sure. We will be headed out in a couple of hours, I'd recommend getting any last minute needs in order.”

He continues, “I'll be getting the plane up and ready so you better be out in the landing area on time, ok?”

“Of course!” Kane answers excitedly.

With this he turns and walks back in the direction of the warehouses where the plane likely resides.

Turning to Ulysses, Kane asks, “Is there anything you need to do?”

Ulysses shakes his head, giving no verbal response.

Happy enough with that answer Kane turns to Ed-e, “How about you bud?”

Ed-e beeps happily and flies around Kane.

“If you're sure you're good then let's go eat something then I want to double check my bags.” Saying that they head off towards the mess hall.

Chapter Text

“Esther!”

“Come on, you gotta wake up!”

“ESTHER!”

Esther is jolted awake, vision blurry from being shaken back and forth. Amata is in front of them, a scared look on her face and her hands shaking from where they are clutching Esther's shoulders. Esther surveys the room and sees the time, it's really early.

“What's wrong Amata?”

She reaches up to rub the sleep out of her eyes as she finally notices the distant noise of an alarm. Her eyes widened.

“What's going on?”

Amata lets go of her shoulders and grabs her arm, pulling Esther out of bed, still shaking.

“They killed Jonas!” Amata shouts, starts to tear up as she reaches and clutches Esther's other arm pulling them towards her, “My father… he”, her grip tightens as she swallows dryly, “he had the guards kill him and they're coming for you next! You have to get out of here right now!”

Amata urgently tries to pull Esther out of the room with her but Esther pulls her arms away.

“Wait, wait what do you mean they killed Jonas why would they do that and what would they want with me?” Esther asks, confused as she meets Amata's lowered gaze, grabbing her friend's shoulders.

Esther's thoughts are running a mile a minute, wide awake after hearing the news. What could have happened to cause this?

Amata looks down again, hesitant to say, she looks like she is barely keeping it together. “You just need to get out of here alright, I know about a secret passage exclusively for the overseer. You'll have to hack the terminal but if you come with me we can get there before they find out you're missing!”

She tries to pull them towards the door again but Esther holds strong, eyes pleading, “Please Amata just tell me what happened! Why did they do it, why do they want to kill me!”

Amata lets go, lips trembling, as she meets Esther's gaze again, “It was your dad, he left the vault! They thought Jonas helped him escape so they… they killed him.” Amata starts to cry, voice hoarse. “Officer Mac... he just kept hitting him over and over again!” She buries her face in her hands, “He didn't stop until he stopped moving. It felt like I was frozen, I couldn't do anything!” She sobbed, “It was only when my father told them to find you that I ran to come get you.” She grabs Esther's hands, looking at her intently.

“Please just let me get you out of here before they hurt you! The guards are on a rampage and radroaches have swarmed the place; I don't want to lose you!” She pleads.

Esther's eyes widened in surprise, “Oh God, Jonas… and my dad he left?”

Why did he leave, he said he loved the vault, that it would keep them safe. Why? Now he's left and plunged the whole place into chaos. Why would he do this to me? Esther thought. Why didn't he take me with him? She's drawn away from her thoughts as Amata lets out another sob. Hearing this they pull Amata into a tight hug, clutching her friend's head with one hand as tears start to form in her own eyes.

“I'm sorry Amata. I had no idea he would do this…” Ester murmurs in disbelief.

Amata's breathing levels out a little bit, “No I'm sorry, that you had to find out like this, about what happened to Jonas. I know you two were like family. I'm so sorry Esther. “She tightens the hug to an almost painful degree, voice sounding empty as she continues, “I didn't think my father was capable of something like this. He was always harsh but not like this. Never like this. Oh my god…”

Amata buries her head into Esther's shoulder as she trails off; the sound of the alarm and distant screams alongside Amata's quiet crying are all that can be heard. After a few seconds Amata pulls away, eyes red but much calmer.

“Here take this, “She croaks out as she pulls a pristine pistol from her belt and puts it in Esther's hand, wrapping Esther's fingers around the handle, “I found it in my father's office. You know I'm no good with a gun and you have gotten pretty good at using that bb gun.” she looks down still clutching Esther's hand, “I just… I don't think I could bring myself to use it and you'll need it when you get out of the vault.” Her hand falls to hang by her side.

Esther tightens her grip around the pistol, looking down at it. She loves her bb gun and she knows she could use the pistol if push comes to shove which it's starting to look like that will be the case. Then she finally processes that final sentence.

“Leave the vault? What do you mean!” Esther half yells in a sudden burst of energy, panic filling her voice as she sharply looks up to meet Amata's sad, but determined gaze.

“If my father or his men find you they will kill you! You have to leave before he notices that I took the key to the overseers quarters and seals off the place!” Amata yells back. “I'm not afraid to drag you out of the vault myself if I have to! I'm not losing anyone else okay!”

Amatas voice breaks at the end of the sentence, desperation visible in her eyes as her voice softens.

“I'll help you gather supplies alright? Please just trust me.”

Her voice sounds so small and all Esther can do is put on a neutral face and nod.

At this Amata visibly relaxes, shoulders falling. Silently she grabs Esther's backpack from the corner of the room and hastily puts it on the bed. “Okay let's get anything you might need, we have to do this fast.”

Esther nods, steeling herself. The two get to work. Amata runs out to the living room as Esther grabs the medkit and an extra vault suit, stuffing them in the bag. She puts on her best boots, a gift from Jonas. She then hastily puts the pistol in her belt after making sure the safety is on. Looking around she sees the BB gun from her father and after a moment of hesitation slings it over her shoulder while pocketing the extra ammo. After this she grabs the bag and meets Amata in the living room.

Amata has gotten a mix of purified water and cans of food set out on the table that she likely grabbed from their storage bin that Esther's dad had kept there “just in case she got hungry”. Seeing her, Amata grabs the items and quickly puts them in the backpack then buttons it up.

Amata meets her gaze, “You ready?”

Esther nods and grabs Amatas hand. In the silence Esther hears distant shouting slowly get closer to the room. They are out of time.

—--

They are still holding Amata's hand as the two quietly make their way through the halls. They just barely missed the guards and the rage filled shouts in the distance are a good indication that they are back on the hunt.

Gripping Amata's hand and sneaking around like this almost reminds them of when the two were younger and how they would try to steal sweets from the cafeteria. Even if it almost always ended with them empty handed, they would still be laughing, carefree, as they ran away from an exasperated Andy.

Esther deflates a little at the thought, knowing this is likely the last time that they would every be in the vault if the overseer has anything to do about it, maybe the last time they get to see Amata at that. Thinking this they squeeze Amata's hand which earns a squeeze back and a sad glance from Amata. The two continue like this as they make their way through the painted red hallways, both from the emergency light and from stray blood.

Luckily they have managed to avoid any of the other inhabitants so far but they still aren't close to the overseers office yet. The alarm has started to grade on Esther's ears and they can barely hear anything besides the damned things. They wish this was a bad dream, just a really realistic bad dream.

She wishes that her dad would wake her up with a smile and tell her to get going to her apprenticeship, that they would go to the cafeteria together. That Amata would jump up behind her and almost knock her over with a hug. That they would greet Jonas brightly before sitting down for breakfast.

They feel a light shake and are broken from their daydream by Amata who has a concerned look on her face.

“You okay?”

“ESTHER!”

They both whip their heads towards the shout but before either can react someone has grabbed Esther and is now rapidly shaking them back and forth by the shoulders.

“Esther! You've gotta help me, please! It's my mom. She's been trapped in her room by some radroaches. Please! The guards won't do anything!” the person pleads, desperation clear in their voice.

Esther knows that voice and their suspicions are confirmed when they hear Amata speak from behind them.

“Butch? What are you doing, let Esther go! We have to get out of here before the guards see us!” She tugs on Esther's arm but Butch holds strong, “Let go you asshole!” She barks out, glaring daggers at him.

Butch turns to look at her sharply, barking back,“No! Not until you help my mom!” He turns back to Esther, “Please, she's all I got! I know I didn't treat you right but you gotta help me!”

Amata sneers at him and responds before Esther can say anything, “What happened to being a big bad Tunnel Snake, huh? Why can't you help her?” She looks at Esther, “Come on, we don't have much time, I am sure they can handle themselves.” She pulls at Esther trying to lead her away.

“No, no. Wait!” Butch shouts, panicked, “I'll, I'll let you join the Tunnel Snakes! Ya, both of ya can join! Here, Esther, take my jacket, as a sign of good will!” He shouts hastily slinging the jacket over her shoulders, “Please just help my mom and I'll never bother either of ya again, alright. Please.”

Esther looks at Butch and then back at Amata. Amata looks pissed at Butch but the panic in his voice and desperation in his eyes is all it takes to convince her. His mom, Ms. DeLoria was never the best but she didn't deserve to be torn apart by radroaches.

“Alright Butch, we'll help you out.” Esther says softly, putting the jacket on properly.

Butch gives her a relieved smile, “Thank you so much, just come with me!” He waves for them to follow and runs towards his mom's room.

Esther goes to follow but is grabbed by Amata, “Hey. I know I was being cruel to Butch, everything has really messed me up. I just don't want to lose my best friend. But you're doing the right thing here.” She gives Esther a tired, guilty smile.

Esther smiles back, “Let's go.”

The two run to follow Butch and find him waiting outside his family's quarters, arms crossed and tense.

“Ah, she's in there. I just, I couldn't do anything, I was too scared. Please help her.”

He says looking down guiltily.

Esther can hear screams from inside alongside the odd chatter of radroaches. She nods at him and motions for Amata to stay back. Grabbing her BB gun she takes a deep breath and opens the door. The screams get louder as she walks towards the bedroom, picking up the pace she bursts through the bedroom door, startling both Ms. Deloria and the three roaches inside.

Aiming her gun it's almost like time slows down. Pointing it at the one closest to Deloria, she fires once, then twice. It goes down.

One.

Fumbling, she aims it at the next one, who tries to dart away. It goes down in three shots.

Two.

Esther looks around wildly for the last one and almost falls back as it Flies at her. Stumbling to the side she dodges, it only grazing her arm.

Lifting her gun, she shakely aims it at the flying roach and manages to shoot its wing, causing it to hit the wall. It screeches and lunges for her. Firing another shot she manages to get it in the head and it falls to the ground silent.

Three.

Steadying herself, she takes a deep breath, lowering her gun.

Deloria looks at her and gives her a grateful nod, swallowing dryly.

“Thanks kid, want a drink after that?”

She's interrupted by Butch who pulls Esther in for a hug, “Oh, we did it! Thank you so much Esther, you're my best friend!”

Amata coughs loudly from behind them, giving Butch a dirty look. Esther laughs awkwardly, pulling away from the hug.

“No problem Butch, only doing what I have to.” Esther responds half heartedly, walking over to Amata.

Butch gives her another bright smile, “Thanks again Esther, I'm honored to call you a member of the Tunnel Snake.” He gives her a strong pat on the back and his face turns more serious, “Now you two get out of here. I'll try to keep the guards off your tail, ya hear?”

Esther gives him a small smile and Amata’s glare softens.

Esther replies, “Thanks Butch. Take care of yourself and your mom.”

He nods and leaves the room headed towards where they last saw the guards. Esther meets Amata's questioning gaze and nods, Amata nods back. Grabbing her hand they make their way hastily back out of the room and in the direction of the overseer's office.

Chapter Text

Despite having separated from Butch a few minutes ago the pair had made a little progress. Esther and Amata were forced to move at a snail's pace to avoid a very paranoid guard. Luckily they were able to find an opening and sneak past the guard without being detected but it did nothing to curb Esther's anxieties.

Even with the mostly barren halls, she had still seen blood splatters and dead roaches about and she worries about what might be happening to the other residents. If what happened to Butch's mom was also happening to everyone else? How likely were they to survive, especially without anything to defend themselves with?

As she thinks this Amata and her have reached the diners entrance and Esther's heart sinks as she hears a shaky gasp from Amata, who's ahead of her stumbles back, eyes locked on a spot on the floor.

Esther tenses as the room comes into view, her fears confirmed. Looking into the diner she sees the remains of someone and a few rad roaches who are skittering and chattering towards the entrance in the darkness alerting Esther that they have been noticed.

Seeing this she pulls Amata further back and tries to stop her hands from shaking as she gets her BB gun, going through the same steps she did before and taking out three radroaches relatively easily. She relaxes after seeing the ones in the cafeteria dealt with, almost breathing out a sigh of relief but is quickly interrupted by a surprised shout from Amata.

Spinning around, gun ready, she sees Amata stomp on a smaller rad roach that had snuck up on the pair.

The stomp isn't enough to kill the thing but gives Esther time to aim properly and shoot it quickly through the head. Afterward, she and Amata quickly survey around them, looking for any more threats, hearts racing.

After a few seconds, the pair relax a little and Esther locks eyes with Amata.

“You okay?” She questions softly.

Amata nods, looking shaken, “Yes, it just snuck up on me, thanks for the help…” she trails off, eyes drawn back towards the diner. Her voice wavers as a soft frown forms on her face.

Esther looks back at the crumbled figure and lets out a shaky breath before walking over to the body. As she reaches it, it's clear who it is.

Crouching down, she looks at Miss Taylor's face. Her expression is frozen in a permanent gasp of fear, eyes wide, hand clutching her jumpsuit loosely. It seems like the radroaches had gotten to her a while ago, bites taken out of her and blood sluggishly leaking onto the floor. Despite this, the wounds seem surface level and Esther can only assume something else caused her death.

Esther reaches a hand to close her eyes and as she touches her face she feels the fading warmth radiating off her skin, likely having been alive not even an hour ago. Pulling her hand back quickly, Miss Taylor's eyes are now shut and Esther can almost imagine she's sleeping but with the blood trailing down her face Esther can't help but wince, the image easily broken.

Miss Taylor was always so sweet. She would bake sweets for her and Amata and always cheered her up when Butch and his gang tried to bully her. She never knew her grandparents but she always saw Miss Taylor as family. Esther's hands shake, she can only imagine her last moment, the fear she must have felt. In the end, she was probably alone, no one deserved that, especially not Grandma Taylor.

Tears spring to her eyes and, setting down the BB gun, she presses the palm of her hands into her eyes to try and prevent herself from crying. She hears a voice from behind as a hand gently grabs her shoulder.

“We have to keep going,” Amata says, eyes red as she looks up from Miss Taylor to meet Esther's eyes.

Esther takes one more glance at the corpse before nodding and the two stand up, Esther taking a second to grab her weapon. She takes a deep breath to calm herself but instantly regrets it, the iron in the air is suffocating. She looks over at her friend who gives her a forced smile, one that falls to look more like a grimace. Looking down she can see the blood on Amata's shoes. Her brow creased in sadness, a frown overtaking her features as she looked down, seeing the blood on her shoes as well, just noticing the puddle they had stepped in. It almost doesn't feel real.

She looks up to see Amata offering her a hand and she silently takes it as the two make their way further out of the vault to the main entrance that will give them a route to the overseer's quarters.

As they walked all Esther could think about was how everything was falling apart. Why is this happening? In just a couple of hours, her entire world has fallen apart and soon she's going to be saying goodbye to what's left of it if she wants to stay alive, if she wants to see her dad again.

The further they go the more corpses they see, Esther doesn't look at their faces, she doesn't want to know who's dead, all she can do is tighten the grip on her BB gun and pick up the pace to try and escape the smell of iron.

With the corpses, they also find radroaches, the insects' anything but forgiving, having already started tearing the dead apart. Esther and Amata are quick to develop a system. Amata stuns them and Esther shoots so they don't waste so much ammunition trying to hit them while they fly around. The insects are annoyingly flighty but not too difficult to kill.

The two are in the middle of killing some more roaches when they hear a shout from further down the hall. Esther shoots the final roach and the two friends make eye contact. The two remain silent and Amata’s brow furrows, mouth forming a line as she looks down the hall. There is another shout.

Esther hesitates for just another second but the image of Grandma Taylor still fresh in her mind is all it takes for her feet to quickly carry her down the hall, gun in hand. She hears Amata almost say something behind her but it is quickly drowned out by the chatter of more radroaches.

Rounding the corner she sees a group of roaches surrounding Officer Gomez who is trying his best to fend them off with his baton. He looks in her direction, having heard the footsteps, but is quickly distracted when another roach flies at him.

Esther aims and starts taking out the roaches. She hears Amata come up behind her and the trio are able to make quick work of the remaining insects.

When the final roach falls Esther lets out an uneasy breath, lowering her gun. Looking up she sees that Amata has taken a defensive stance in front of her. Tensing, she looks over her friend's shoulder, locking eyes with Officer Gomez.

At first, he gives her a surprised look as if shocked to see her, it looks like he's about to say something before he clenches his jaw, looking down, a sadness settling on his face. He lowers his baton.

“I never saw you.” He states, walking past them, then for a second he pauses. He looks back at Esther hesitating for a second before a determined look forms in his eyes, “I think James is innocent, he isn't the type of man to let something like this happen he just wanted to leave. Why? Hell, if I know, this is all just one messed up situation.” He lets out a sigh, saddest once again coloring his features, “I'm so sorry kid, you've really been given the short end of the stick here… just try and take care of yourself. The overseer's lookin for you, you know.” He trails off, letting out another tired sigh, exhaustion present on his face. Esther nods as Amata goes to stand beside her.

He goes to take a step towards them but stops when the pair visibly tense, Amata putting a hand on Esther's shoulder, ready to bolt. He puts his baton back on his belt, taking a step back.

“Just get out of here kid, go find your dad, maybe you can ask him why he left. Just don't get caught.” He grimaces and for a second a look of guilt crosses his face, “I hope we don't run into each other again if the overseer catches you…” he lets out a shaky breath, “I just don't want to think about it. Be safe you two.” with that and a sad smile he turns and disappears down the hall.

After a few seconds of watching him leave the pair continue their journey through the vault and in no time find themselves near the main entrance but are once again halted by a quiet argument between two other vault dwellers. Stopping Esther is only able to catch the tail end of the argument, something about leaving the vault, before one of the vault dwellers makes a break for the main entrance.

Esther stares wide-eyed as shouts are heard, the guards at the entrance threatening the person before gunfire fills the air. She hears a strangled gasp from the other person before they let out a guttural scream. They start running towards the entrance as well, a mantra of nos leaving their lips. Esther goes to grab them but is stopped by Amata. Esther glares at her, almost tugging herself free before Amata, with sad eyes, quickly motions to where another guard is walking in from a side room, baton in hand.

Esther clenches her fist and steps back, the other person disappearing through the doorway to the entrance. It's then that a pain-filled shout and a gurgling cry come through the doorway then silence. The pair pull back as Esther grinds her teeth to stop herself from saying anything. They hide until the guard leaves and quietly sneak past the entrance, nearing their destination.

“Why is this happening..?” Esther mumbles to herself, now out of the range of the guards. Her nails dug into her palms. “Why go through all this effort to prevent people from leaving when there are already enough problems going on?” She quietly rants.

Amata glances back at her, “I-I don't know…” she responds numbly. “I can't believe he would kill his own people, people that just yesterday he would have called family…” she looks down, stopping.

She turns to look at Esther, unshed tears in her eyes, “Let's just keep going okay? We need to get out of here. Who knows what the overseer is capable of if he has already permitted all this.” With this, the two continue down the hall.

Silence once again falls over the pair as they make their way through the vault, dodging and hiding from the guards they see, it's slow going as the number of guards increases the closer they get to the overseer's office. Eventually, they find themselves in a hall outside the overseer's quarters, a large window giving them a clear view of an enraged overseer who is berating one of the guards.

“What do you mean you haven't found her? How difficult is it to find one person? It's not like she could have left, the vault’s on lockdown, and there are only so many places she could be!”

“Sorry sir, it's just with the roaches and all the civilians-”

“You lot were trained for situations like this. Get it together and go find her!”

“Yes sir.”

The guard scampers off but the overseer remains in the room, although facing away from the window, a hand clutching his brow while he mumbles something to himself.

Seeing this as a chance to get past him, the pair tries to sneak by the room.

As they are just about to get past the doorway Esther feels eyes on her and subtly turns to glance in the room through the window.

She freezes as she meets rage-filled eyes and a deep scowl, though it is quickly covered by a neutral expression. The overseer quickly opens the door, clearly expecting the pair to follow him in with a neutral look on his face. Despite this, the overseer is unable to keep the anger out of his voice.

“Esther get over here and turn yourself in, after all the trouble your father caused it's the least you can do. You and I both know it's what's best for the vault.” He demands, although there is an artificial lightness to his tone as if he's trying to soften his words.

“No! I can't let you do this Dad!” Amata shouts, pushing Esther behind her and a bit further down the hall.

A brief look of surprise paints the overseer's face, “Amata, I thought you were better than this. Now I know she was your friend but she's a danger to the vault. How about you both come over here and we can settle this properly?” A real level of softness enters his voice when he speaks to Amata, reaching a hand out to her.

Amata glares at him, “She's a danger? Look at what you've done! Your guards are going around killing people,  first Jonas, and now anyone that steps out of line!” She barks out anger seeping into her voice, hands clenched, but despite that, Esther can see that she's shaking.

“Amata, everything I have done is to protect this vault. It's to protect you! Now stop this rebellion and stop defending that criminal behind you!” He demands, with a sharpness to his voice, taking a step towards them.

“Don't say that you've done this for me! All you're doing right now is ruining people's lives; ruining my life!”

“I–”

“No! You don't get to interrupt me!” She cries out, throwing an arm up in the direction of the hall. The alarm and panic audible in the distance, “Look around us, so many people are dead and rad roaches are still running all over the place but all you care about is catching one person that doesn't even have anything to do with this!” She motions to Esther, looking back at her.

Whipping her head back around she continues, the scowl clear on her face,” You know how I found Esther? Asleep. In her room asleep, if she had anything to do with this why would she be there and not with her dad? With Jonas?” She lets out a shaky breath, her voice strained, as she gives her father a sharp look.

“Jonas… Why did you do it, Dad? Even if he was helping James, even if they did cause the radroaches to get in he didn't deserve that. Would you do the same thing to James? To Esther? To anyone you see as a threat to the vault? Or are they just a threat to your order?” She questions harshly, fists clenched at her side.

“Amata you know I only do what is necessary to uphold the integrity of our vault, of our family. I can't allow for anyone to ruin that!” He insists, a scowl on his face, “The outside world is in ruins and to have any hope for our future we have to stay in the vault.”

“Once one person leaves then eventually more will follow, what if word gets out and people try to invade us? What will we do then Amata? I will not let this vault fall to ruin; those outsiders will ruin us!” He shouts, fists clenched.

She looks at him in disbelief, letting out a surprised breath, “All of this for the integrity of the vault? You'll put your beliefs and mission above people's lives? You could be helping us, you could try to protect the people of this vault! Preventing more deaths. But instead, you ordered the guards to kill people without a second thought!” She barks out, barely able to stop herself from outright screaming at him.

“All of this for the vault huh? How can you say that when people are being killed by your orders, just because you think it's best.”

She scoffs, looking down, and just for a second, she can see the blood on her shoes. Clenching her eyes shut, Amata takes a breath.

Looking up she continues, somewhat quieter, “You're not doing this because you care about the vault or that you care about me. No, you're doing this because you want to control us, because you only care about your own goals, and the second you lose that control, the ability to have things go exactly the way you want them to, you- you fly off the handle!” She swings an arm out as if to motion to the vault as a whole.

As she says this a few guards run into the room, likely due to the shouting, but they pause when they see the argument; Amata doesn't seem to have noticed them.

“So many people I care about, that everyone here cares about, are dead because of you either by your orders or because of your inaction!” She hunches in on herself, “It feels like I don't even know who you are anymore!” her voice breaks at the last line, unshed tears lining her eyes.

“Amata I–” a look of guilt crosses his face and for a second he reaches out a hand only for it to quietly drop back down to his side. An almost invisible sadness still paints his features but a hardness appears in his eyes that wasn't there before.

“This is what's best Amata, you may be too young to understand that but I won't let this continue.” as he speaks, a more neutral look overtakes his face, his posture firm, he looks at Esther. “I will give you one last chance to stop this and turn yourself in.”

The following silence causes the girls to Suddenly notice their audiences, the two girls can feel the guards watching them as they wait for the overseer's orders, the anticipation palpable in the air. The alarms outside echo through the quiet room as the overseer waits to hear their choice.

Amata's shoulders fall, the willingness to fight leaving her, as her face forms a despondent look and she realizes she can't reason with her father. She was hoping she could talk some sense into him, that she would have at least had more time to make her points but seeing that look in his eye she knew he was serious. Even when she was a child she could see when he had made up his mind about something, looking at him now it was as clear as day.

Until today she hadn't quite realized the extent of his stubbornness, just how willing he was to take things to the extreme. Looking down, she sighs. There is no way Esther or her can stay here. Even if she still had a place here she wouldn't want it after what her father had said. After all the people that had been lost.

She looks over to Esther who has an unwarranted look of guilt and sadness in her eyes. But under that, there is a barely noticeable look of fear that makes Amata frown. Esther looks like she's about to say something, going to take a step forward. Amata stops her.

She reaches out to Esther and gives her shoulder a gentle squeeze. She meets her eyes, giving her a sad smile before turning to look back at her father. He looks annoyed. She guesses they've run out of time.

Without a word, she gives the overseer a cold look tugging on Esther's hand to get her attention before sprinting down the hall. Esther, quick to see the plan, hits the button on the door granting them a few more seconds as she runs after Amata.

Angry shouting can be heard behind them and Esther briefly feels glad that most of the guards were never previously permitted guns as the two skid into the overseer's quarters unharmed. Amata quickly puts in a command to seal the door shut.

Esther stares at the door for a few seconds, jumping when someone starts banging against the door.

Amata takes a deep breath, hands against the door, there's now shouting coming from the otherside. She sighs and looks over to Esther who gives her a questioning look.

“That should hold them for a few minutes, the overseer had a fail safe in case something ever happened that would put this room into lockdown. The only way to open the door would be to either break it down or hack into it.” She points over to the panel on the side, “to do that they'd have to get into the paneling.” She looks down sadly, “I guess my dad's paranoia was good for something in the end.” She chuckles dryly.

Esther gives her a sad smile before turning to look at the rest of the room, she was never allowed to go in this area before despite being friends with Amata. Her curiosity about the place vanishes in an instant the second she glances around the room and sees the body on the floor. Her heart drops.

She glances at Amata but the other girl avoids looking in that direction entirely, rather skirting around the area to go into her room. She turns back to look at Esther, fiddling with her hands, unsure of what to do with them.

“If you want to have a moment with him I have to get some things from my room…” Amata says quietly before glancing back at the door, “although we probably don't have much time left…”

“I'll be quick.” Esther responds quietly, eyes not leaving Jonas.

Amata just nods, disappearing into her room.

Esther cautiously approaches Jonas and a feeling of nausea overtakes her when she sees what they did to him. For once she wished the guards had guns if it meant a less painful death for the man she considered an uncle. She wishes they never tried to hurt him in the first place.

“This never should have happened.” she whispers, brow furrowed.

She crouches down and goes about gently straightening his limbs, laying him face upward, arms by his sides.

“I wish I could do more…” She says sadly, regret lacing her voice as she straightens his coat. As she does this a note falls out.

Looking down at it she hesitates for a second before picking up the letter seeing her name on the front. She flips it around and goes to open it.

“Hey Esther, I got everything. I also got the key card to the overseer's office.” Amata announces walking over to stand beside her. The banging on the door has stopped and Esther glances back at it.

“They must have gone to get a technician.” Esther responds softly before standing, placing the note in her pocket.

“Probably…” Amata agrees, she looks at Esther, “Are you okay?”

Esther looks back down at Jonas and frowns at the permit grimace that paints his face, the fear in his eyes. She closes them, gently straightens his broken glasses before standing.

“I have to be okay.” She replies neutrally. Clenching her fist she has to hold back tears as she tears her eyes away from someone she considered family towards the overseer's office. She nods briefly and the two walk over, opening the door.

As they do this the pair can hear soft talking from behind the locked door as they walk into the office.

“Looks like they found that technician.” Amata says tiredly. “Think you can get the terminal unlocked?” She questions, shutting the office door behind them and locking it with the key card.

Esther nods, setting her bag down, walking over to the terminal and turning it on before quickly figuring out the password after a try or two. Looking through the tabs she frowns at the names. Before opening them she goes ahead and opens the escape tunnel. The gears of the floor opening up creak loudly as the parting floor reveals a heavy metal door down a short hallway. She turns back to look at the terminal, hands hovering over the keys.

“Amata before we go you might want to take a look at this.”

Amata walks up behind her to peer over her shoulder. “What the hell, scouting reports?”

Clicking on the tab Esther opens up the first entry which talks about the vault's members' exploration of the outside world dating back over a decade ago.

An angry look overtakes Amata's face, “All this time he was talking about how dangerous the outside was and how we should never leave the vault when he himself approved a scouting mission to the outside? Why lie about that; why not just tell everyone the truth; how many people were in on this?”

Esther looks at the entry in contemplation. “Who knows.” She responds absent-mindedly, thoughts all over the place. “We can think about it more later.”

Amata frowns but nods, “Was there anything else weird on there?”

Esther nods, “A security dossier and instructions from vault-tec, I'm not sure if they are weird but after the scouting stuff it couldn't hurt to look at them?”

The pair skim through the entries before immediately clicking on the one named Amata. Just a glance through shows some criticisms the overseer had with her behavior, talking about her not being open with him. Amata frowns the more she reads, a tight look on her face, Esther just gives her a sympathetic look. After that, they skim through the other entries, all filled with complaints about different vault members and some notes. By the end of it Amata has an angry look on her face.

“What right does he have to say those things about the people in the vault? I can understand what he said about me but a lot of those comments were unwarranted.” Amata exclaims, taking over and clicking through the different entries aggressively. She turns to look at Esther, “And he was behind Butch's gang? How much was he involved with all that?”

“I don't know...” Esther mumbles, remembering the years of bullying her and Amata endured.

Amata clicks off of the security dossier, sighing, and gives control back to Esther, stepping back from the terminal, “I just don't want to think about it anymore”, she glances towards the door before looking back at the terminal, “what about the last tab, stuff from vault-tec?”

Esther clicks on the tab and looks through the first entry. Reading through it, Esther mumbles, “A control group?—”

There is a clicking notice and voices can be heard from right outside the office, “Open up! It is on the overseer's orders that we arrest you for crimes against the vault!”

The pair both turn to look at the door. Esther shuts off the terminal and grabs her bag. Walking over to the escape tunnel entrance she looks at the door not hearing anymore yelling, someone's still aggressively banging against the door but it seems like they don't plan on asking again.

Amata walks past her, opening the sealed door at the end of the tunnel. She motions to Esther.

“Come on.”

Esther follows behind her as the short hallway takes them directly to the vault door. The door is gigantic, she had only ever seen pictures before. To see the entrance in person is overwhelming. This was finally it. Amata is waiting for her by the control panel.

Esther walks over to the panel triggering the doors opening mechanism. Alarms blair and lights flash as the door hisses open. Esther can hear shouting from the door behind them and guards run in.

Seeing this she grabs Amatas hand and the pair run through the still opening vault door to avoid being stuck down.

Just as they pass the threshold Esther looks back halting when she sees that the guards won't follow them out. The guards mutter paranoid thoughts, their fear of the outside greater than their want to catch the pair. Esther hears one mutter that they'll die out there anyway.

Looking further in the vault she's surprised to not see the overseer amongst the crowd. Looking over at Amata she has a sad look on her face. Esther gives her hand a squeeze before tugging her towards the wooden door.

“Let's get out of here before they decide to try and follow us.”

The pair walk down the cave towards the door when Esther hears the vault door shut behind them, she doesn't look back.

Chapter Text

“Shit, shit, shit! We're so late!” Kane shouts, panicked. “Why didn't you say anything?” They turn their head to look at Ulysses as they run.

Ulysses just gives them a deadpan look as he follows close behind as if asking how he was suppose to do that without a clock.

Kane sighs grumpily, but then gasps and turns to look at E-de. “You have a built-in clock, why didn't you say anything, huh?”

Ed-e just whirls mischievously at them, and Kane gives them a mean look before almost tripping over a rock.

“-Ah, shit!” They stop abruptly to fix their bags and gun before pointing an accusatory finger at E-de.

“If Jack gets mad I'm blaming you capeesh?”

Ed-e, without a sound, just turns to keep flying towards the landing area. Kane gawks, “Don't ignore me, get back here!”

They then jump as Ulysses grabs their arm to drag them along, “We haven't the time for this Kane, keep moving. Whatever consequences await us will only get worse the longer we delay.”

Kane goes silent, casting a half hearted glare at Ed-e before following Ulysses the rest of the way to the plane.

At the plane they are, unsurprisingly, greeted by an angry Jack who disappointedly scolds at them for being late with fingers pinching his brow, “It's sad to say I'm not even surprised…”

He sighs, “Well time isn't ticking backwards, I'll just have to explain things to ya on the go.” He says grabbing them around the shoulder before hastily leading them towards the plane and pushing them up the stairs.”

“Now I wasn't expecting anyone besides you and your robot friend so it might be a bit cramped if all three of ya want to look outside.” He explains as they enter the cockpit.

“Ah, that makes sense, “ Kane responds awkwardly, looking over at Ulysses. “What do you want to do?”

Ulysses looks down in contemplation before replying, “Staying in the back would be more efficient, less likely for an accident to occur.” Looking at Jack he continues, “I will remain in the back.”

Jack nods but Kane is quick to interrupt, “if you want we can take turns? I can stay for the first half and you for the second half!”

Ulysses looks at them, “That is not necessary, this is your journey. I am only here for the information I may learn when the journey begins. When we are on the ground again.”

“But what about the things you could learn from above, the cool places there might be? Come on, I'd feel bad if you spent the whole flight in the back.” Kane argues.

Jack sighs, “I'd say just agree with em buddy. They are as stubborn as a mule and we need to get a move on.”

Ulysses looks over to Jack and then Kane, nodding, “If that's what you wish then.” He agrees before exiting the cockpit to the back part of the plane.

Kane shouts back at them, “I'll call when it's your turn! So don't fall asleep alright?”

Smiling Kane takes a seat in the chair beside Jack, putting on the night vision goggles the previously hung around their neck.

Jack starts getting the plane ready for take off, pressing buttons and switches that are unknown in their purpose to Kane, while he does this he starts explaining things.

“Now Kane this is an older model plane, not quite as high tech as some of the later stuff before the war, but it should satisfy our needs well enough.”

He continues, “After fixing it up we were able to make some improvements using the data and blueprints left behind at the base so now it only requires one pilot, meaning don't touch anything unless I tell you to alright?” He instructs.

Kane nods enthusiastically.

Jack sighs, “like I said before despite needing only one pilot we would need at least one other person to man the guns but because we don't have that or the ammo I need you to keep an eye out for anything hostile. If we are going to be low enough down to see the land below then that means they can see us too. But you already know that.”

The plane roars to life, and Jack hands Kane some headphones before putting on some of his own. they muffle the sound of the engine and Kane can hear Jack speak clearly through noise.

“If you see something hostile then alert me so we can go to a higher altitude! Ok? And don't forget to mark down any planes you spot on your pip boy so we have the data alright?”

Kane gives him a thumbs up and he nods before taking off.

The plane leaves the ground rapidly and soon they are high up in the air, just low enough to make out the terrain below.

Kane gasps in amazement, looking in awe at the view below. They lean over to get a better look below and the night vision gives them a clear view of the land below. They smile gleefully when they spot the neon lights of Vegas and wish Ulysses was here so they could have someone to share the excitement with, because they know that Jack has seen this probably plenty of times before.

“Have you ever flown at night before?” Kane questions not taking their eyes off the ground below.

Jack nods again, “Of course! Both in the simulation and in this plane. We didn't fix it up just for show or for fighting you know.”

He smiles, “You know I'm actually really happy you got Pearl to agree to this, I've never gotten to fly so far before.”

Kane smiles back, glancing over, “I'm glad it worked out.” They agree.

Most of the flight is spent in either silence or with random small talk when something interesting happens. Kane trying their best to focus on spotting any planes or airports below. As the time passes, they surprisingly don't run into too many hiccups. On a few occasions Kane has to direct Jack to fly at a higher altitude but they manage not to get spotted.

Kane is also able to spot a few planes and the occasional airport which they mark down on their pip boy, labeling which is which as they go. They even manage to spot a plane graveyard which Jack was very happy about. They almost ask if they can land to check the place out but quickly changes their mind when they see the place is bring used as a super mutant base. And not a friendly one either based on the amount of blood they can see even from this high up. They tell Jack about it which dampens his mood but they quickly cheer him up by promising to help clear it out when they get back.

Time flys and eventually they notice they have reached the halfway point of their journey. Seeing this they tell Jack they are switching with Ulysses. Jack nods and tells them to inform him on what he'll have to do. Kane gives him a thumbs up before taking off the headset and exiting the cockpit.

In the back the engine isn't super loud and they wonder if the room has been soundproofed in any way. Taken from that thought they quickly spot Ulysses who is sitting on one of the benches reading a book. Seeing him, they wave to get his attention He looks up and silently puts his book back in his satchel.

“Have you come to switch places?”

Kane nods, “Yup, just have to explain a few things first.”

Saying this they take off their night vision goggles and hand them to him, “Here, I'm pretty sure you have an idea of what Jack wants you to do and those goggles will make it a lot easier.”

Ulysses nods before putting on the goggles, waiting for them to continue.

“Do you know how to use a pip boy? I know you've traveled around a lot but I wasn't sure.”

He nods again. "I am familiar."

Kane smiles, unlatching their pip boy before handing it to Ulysses, clicking on the map page, “Alright then this should be easy. While you're looking around you just need to mark down any planes or plane related places you see. When we are almost at the east coast come and get me and I can transfer the data onto a holo tape to give to Jack.” They think for a moment before shrugging, “I think that's about it.”

Ulysses attaches the pip boy to his wrist before nodding, eyes focused on the screen, “Noted” He looks at them, “See you soon Kane.” Saying this he heads out into the cockpit leaving Kane with Ed-e in the back.

Kane takes a seat before looking at E-de, “How are you holding up friend?”

Ed-e whirls boredly at them from where he is laying on the bench across from them, not being able to fly very well in the plane.

“I know, we've only got a few more hours. I didn't know planes could travel this fast!” They exclaim, excited.

“ We'll be back on the ground in no time!” They smile, giving Ed-e a sympathetic pat.

He beeps at them in a more cheerful tone and Kane checks their bags again. Everything is accounted for so they grab their riot gear helmet, setting it aside for when they will be leaving the plane. With that they get everything back in order before closing up their bags and setting their sniper rifle aside for quick access in case anything goes wrong.

Sighing, they flop down on the bench, surprised at how tired they were. “Guess I'm not used to traveling so much after all the conflict settled down…” Saying this they close their eyes.

“Well I'll have to get used to it again with a journey like this.” They mumble, smiling softly.

—--

“HEY KANE!”

Kane jolts awake, almost falling off the bench, swerving to look at the door.”

“WE ARE ALMOST THERE, GET OUT HERE!”

Kane jumps up and hurries into the cockpit. Through the windows they can see that it's gotten bright outside, the sun shining clearly through the glass.

Jack glances back at them, “Did you fall asleep or something? Your hair looks like a bird's nest.” He asks loudly to be heard over the engine before handing them a headset.

Kane chuckles awkwardly, “Ah, no…” They respond quietly, hastily fixing their hair.

“Sure…” He responds sarcastically, “Anyways it looks like we are in the old capital if your friend here is right.”

Ulysses nods, “Based on the ancient structures and pip boy map the capital is below. The coast is near.” Saying this he hands over the pip boy to Kane, “I have taken note of planes we have crossed.” He explains.

They nod back, attaching the pip boy to their arm before sitting on the floor and inserting a holotape. After this they go through the motion of transferring the data onto the holotape and after a few minutes they have all the locations transferred. With this they look over to Jack.

“Where do you want this?” They ask, waving the holotape around.

He glances over before using a thumb to point behind him, “There should be a compartment behind my chair, just stick it in there.” He responds.

Kane puts the holotape in the compartment, careful to make sure it won't get damaged during the flight back before going to stand behind Ulysses chair, having to crouch slightly due to the cramped space, to get a better look out the windows.

Gasping, Kane presses their hands against the glass, smiling gleefully and pointing down at a structure below.

“Look, Ulysses! What's that building down there? I've never seen something with architecture like that before?

Kane had never seen a building like that, it was large and had giant white columns that made up walls at the front. Although one side was in disarray it still was significantly more intact than any of the surrounding buildings. It stood by itself near the water with a long path leading down to it.

Ulysses's eyes crinkled in amusement, “That is likely the Lincoln Memorial, Kane. A monument of one of the old presidents. We are in the capital of the old world.” He looks down in contemplation at the ruins of the capital. He is reminded of an old text he found, Ozymandias, a tale of irony and false greatness. The similarity to the old world and its current state is quite ironic to him just like the poem.

His thoughts are interrupted as Kane shouts, and pushes his head down. Confusion fills him until he sees the red lasers and gun fire that breaks the glass along with piercing the side and one of the wings.

“Shit!” Jack shouts from the pilot seat, almost drowned out by the wind and engine. “I'm gonna have to land this thing so we can get a look at the damage and fix the window I do not need things flying outside.“ He starts to bring the plane down, using a somewhat risky maneuver due to the limited space. He trys his best to avoid any gun fire before landing near the Lincoln Memorial landing dangerous close to a nearby tree.

Right when the plane touches down Kane hops out, having gone to the exit before they touched down, elite riot gear helmet on, bags secured and pistol in hand. Ed-e is quick to follow beeping from behind them, laser already warming up.

Ulysses hops out after grabbing his stuff as Jack finally gets his buckles undone, rushing over to the damaged wing.  Jack glances over it and breathes a sigh of relief. “It didn't hit anything important though I do have to patch up that window real quick” he reaches a hand up to rub the back of his head, ”maybe I overreacted. Either way I think this is where I've got to part ways with you three. I'd rather not lose my ride home, ya hear?”

“Plus the others would be real mad with me if I lost one of our only planes, they aren't easy to come by, you know?” He continued walking back towards the front of the plane. There he grabs some heavy duty duck tape and a thick sheet of plastic. Going to the broken window he patches it hastily. “That will have to do for now, I can fix it better when I can get to a less dangerous place.”

Kane gives him a quick nod and an invisible smile, examining the surroundings for any threats, “Thanks for getting us to the east! This is more than I could have hoped for. Have a safe flight home, we can keep an eye out for who was shooting at us while you take off.”

They holstered their pistol and grabbed the sniper rifle from off of their back. “Take care of yourself alright? We've got your back until you can get the plane going.”

“It was no problem Kane.” He says getting back into the plane. Shouting, he continues, “You better not get yourself killed, and be back in the Mojave before my wedding!”

Kane laughs, attention drawn to the plane as Ulysses watches their back, “Ok safe travels!" They try to shout as their voice is lost to the sound of the propellers whirls. The plane lifts off the ground.

The plane shoots off and makes a turn in the air, making its way back west. The world goes quiet as the plane disappears from view. Kane relaxes slightly, just for the peace to be broken by shouting from the front of the monument.

The trio rush over to get a look at the front of the monument. Crouching, Kane uses the scope of their rifle to get a better look at what was happening. The scene in front of them appears to be a group of people in Brotherhood of Steel power armor shooting at what might be a group of travelers or fiends.

Listening, Kane hears shouts of curses and something about the Enclave from the Brotherhood's side and shouts of pain from the others.

“Should we engage?” Ulysses whispers from beside them, his anti-material rifle in hand. Ed-e hovering lower behind the two.

Kane shakes their head, “It's best we avoid it since our arrival may have triggered the fight. They may be Brotherhood but that doesn't mean they are friendly, they could be totally different from the ones we know. Don't engage unless they spot us, let's try and get out of here.” They reply quietly, lowering their rifle. Staying low they try to hurry out of view with their companions close behind them.

“Because the brotherhood haven't seen us if we aren't in the immediate vicinity they may not attack.” Ulysses comments quietly, “It's best to stay out of sight for a while.”

Kane nods, keeping an eye on the fight.

The trio makes it a bit further away from the fight when shouts are heard and footsteps start pounding towards them. Forgoing stealth the team is quick to start running towards the buildings, shots are fired and Kane dodges to avoid a shot from hitting their arm. In doing this they end up stumbling on a piece of debris, losing their footing.

This stumble is all that it takes for their pursuers to catch up, laser rifles pointed at the Courier and Ulysses, who had run back to stand with them.

“Halt! Are you the ones with the Enclave?!” One of the Brotherhood members shouts at the two.

“The Enclave?” Kane breathes out, confused, readjusting their footing and getting a better grip on their rifle.

Before the power armored individuals can say something or get annoyed at Kane, Ulysses replies.

“We are not a friend of the Enclave. Must you be so quick to pin judgment?”

“Quick to pin judgment! That was an aircraft by the Memorial or are you blind! That wasn't one of our planes so we have to assume it was an enemy craft.” They lift their rifle to point it at Ulysses.

“Quiet! Were you two involved with that aircraft?” the soldier at the front asks and with the other members silence they can assume this one is the commander, a scowl clear on his face. They think he must be pretty confident in his skill to not wear a helmet.

Kane then processing the question responds hastily, waving a hand, “No, it was just the wrong place at the wrong time, you know?”

One of the soldiers chuckles but is quickly shushed.

“Then what's with the eye bot! We will have to take you in under suspicion of alliance with the Enclave. If you come peacefully you shall not be harmed, for now.” The commander orders, training their laser rifle on Kane. “Put your weapons down!”

Ulysses looks to Kane to see what they want to do but Kane isn't sure. Should they fight? They definitely could take them on, maybe with some injuries, but they don't want to hurt anyone that actually means well.

Examining the five troopers Kane takes note of their pristine armor and well cared for guns. Veronica said that the East side of the Brotherhood were better off than their branch and that was apparent but they still had to learn more before making any assumptions. The way they saw it, it could be beneficial to get captured to see what exactly was going on to cause such hostility.

Or it could be detrimental and prevent them from ever leaving due to death or dismemberment.

Kane would never claim to be smart but they do like taking chances.

“Ulysses put your gun down.” They say as they set their own rifle down and slide it over to the soldier.

Ulysses portrays no emotions but does silently put his gun down and slide it over.

“We'll comply. Just don't hurt Ed-e– the eye bot, okay?”

“We will accept your request due to your compliance. You are permitted to carry your bags but any sudden movements will be met with hostility. Are we clear?” The soldier says as one of the others picks up the two guns.

“Yes sir.” Kane replies and slowly turns to look at E-de. “How about you head off and we'll see you later–”

“No can do! The eye bot comes too.” The commander demands, “I've never seen an eye bot behave that way and we don't need you calling for backup! Now come along!” They explain, shoving Kane in the stomach with their laser rifle.

Kane glares at them and shows no hint that the blow hurts but compiles, “Lead the way then.” They sneer.

The commander takes the lead with the others following behind and on either side of Kane, Ulysses and Ed-e. Guns are raised at even the slightest misstep.

The trio are silent as they are led to wherever the Brotherhood are trying to take them, not being able to talk with any attempts being met with harsh glares.

Kane’s mood is sour from not being able to look around properly, all the tall structures and buildings being unfamiliar to them, only having seen such structures in places like the Divide or New Vegas. But these buildings lacked the polish of New Vegas nor were they quite as destroyed as the Divide. Kane wishes they could go exploring or at least have gotten a better look at the Memorial.

Hopefully they are able to either talk their way out of trouble or, if worst comes to worst, fight their way out. They have done it before. Though they would hate to have to tell Veronica about it if that does happen. Now that they think about it, they really regret declining Veronica's offer of getting a holotag to wear after accepting the offer to be an honorary member of the Brotherhood. Maybe that would have been enough evidence to get out of this situation.

Kane sighs and hears the shuffling of guns. They turn to give the offending soldier an annoyed look through their shaded lenses for being so trigger happy, catching Ulysses' subtly exasperated face as they turn to look forward again.

Ignoring the soldiers behind them they question the Commander, “Will you at least tell us where we're being taken?”

The soldier doesn't falter in their quick pace, “That information is confidential. Until we get there I can't risk you giving any information to the Enclave.” They answer sharply.

Kane sighs tiredly but doesn't question further. They are starting to regret not fighting them but they've made their choice and will stick to their decision.

Kane frowns, Ed-e's been eerily quiet, having gone silent after having one too many guns pointed at them. They miss the robots' constant chatter. If these people try to do anything to Ed-e then Kane knows that the shaky truce they have going will shatter in an instant. Very few people care for robots much less want to see them as people and Kane knows about the Brotherhood's interest in tech.

Ed-e was their first friend after pretty much having come back from the dead and they weren't going to let the Brotherhood start poking and prodding at them. So for now Kane was willing to see what was up with this branch of the Brotherhood but one wrong move and they are willing to kill as many people as they have to to protect their friends.

The trek to this unknown location continues. They notice that the farther they walk the more Brotherhood members they see, some of the ones without helmets give the weird looks but most ignore them and continue their patrols or guarding.

It starts to get dark when they see a tall stone wall and a large metal gate, still standing strong after hundreds of years. It reminded Kane of Camp McCarran but grander. Outside there are plenty of active sentries and turrets alongside the guards. When they reach the large gate hushed words are exchanged between the commander and one of the guards.

The conversation drags on for a few minutes as both soldiers are visibly annoyed. Eventually, the guard finally motions angrily, letting them go inside.

The gate lets out a harsh metallic screech as the gears work to pull it open. When the door grinds to a halt the trio is harshly ushered through the door. Immediately after entering the door shuts firmly behind them and Kane realizes that it will be a lot harder to fight their way out than they thought if they can't talk their way out of imprisonment.

“Maybe this was a bad idea…” they mumble quietly to Ulysses and he just gives them a deadpan look.

“Quiet you two!” One of the soldiers shouts, shoving Kane in the back.

Kane jumps at the shout, it having been right by their ear, but doesn't falter at being shoved. Kane frowns and continues the trek towards their future, but hopeful temporary prison.

No longer being distracted Kane is able to finally take a look around and is amazed at how functional and organized everything is. Compared to the Brotherhood back home or even some of the NCR these guys definitely seem to have things figured out. With troops being trained and having multiple different fighting styles being practiced; the place bustling with activity. Though the amazement is quickly followed by contemplation.

With how organized and kitted out this branch of the Brotherhood is what has gotten them so freaked out to take prisoners so quickly? Why are they so desperate for information to capture the first suspicious looking people that don't respond with hostility?

Before they can contemplate more they are being pushed through a door leading into one of the buildings. The tight hallway forces them and Ulysses to stick close together as they get ushered down the hall.

Kane doesn't get a chance to look around as they are taken down some stairs and multiple more hallways. As they go two of the soldiers in power armor swap out with unarmored soldiers, seemingly have other tasks to do. Eventually they come to a stop at what appears to be a jail where their bags are promptly taken from them; Kane is very happy they stashed their new pistol. 

After this, multiple soldiers including the commander have handed their weapons off to the people outside the jail, likely as a safety precaution to prevent a gun from getting into the prisoners possession, though they've already failed in that regard. This leaves two soldiers armed, though they seem relaxed, seemingly having deemed the trio as not a threat. The unarmed soldiers are lightly dragging Ulysses into a cell when a soldier to the side tries to grab Ed-e who beeps anxiously.

“Hey! Don't touch him, Ed–the eye bot can stay with me, I promise he won't try anything you can even have a guard watch us.” Kane appeases, taking a step towards Ed-e as the other soldiers stop what they're doing, the ones armed aiming their weapons at Kane.

“That is against protocol, prisoner.” The commander responds sharply and the soldier reaches for Ed-e again.

“Hey!” Kane demands, as they tense up, anger sneaking into their voice “He stays with us. You can lock us up but you don't get to separate us ok?” They insisted, words sharp.

The commander grabs their arm, pulling at it hard enough to bruise but Kane stands firm, meeting their scowl with a snarl of their own,  though it's hidden by their helmet.

“Stand down, prisoner!” The commander demanded, “You are not the one in charge here! I've generously let you two live, now you should do what I say if you want to keep living! You got it? We will be taking the robot  to a different location.” They command, tugging harshly at Kane’s arm, trying to pull them towards the other open cell door.

Kane doesn't move, they should have known this was a bad idea, this is what they were worried about. The Brotherhood and their obsession with technology. If they let them take Ed-e Kane’s sure he will be dismembered within the hour to see how he works and why he behaves the way he does. They should have just fought and stayed in hiding for a while no matter how disappointed Veronica might have been, she'd understand. Now they are in the heart of the Brotherhood's base with no easy way out.

Kane looks around the room, five guards and the door is shut so they should have at least a little bit of time before anyone notices that something is wrong. They also know that they should be able to incapacitate the present guards, especially with Ulysses and Ed-e's help, but to get out of here they'll need leverage.

Knowing this Kane glances at Ulysses who is already looking their way. The two exchange a knowing glance before, quick as a whip, Kane grabs their hidden pistol and yanks themselves free of the commander's grip. One of the armed soldiers shoots at them but misses Kane in the sudden panic.

Putting the commander between them and the rest of the soldiers Kane pulls him down into a chokehold despite his struggling and sets the pistol against his head, he's probably regretting not wearing a helmet now. Ulysses follows, freeing himself of the two soldiers that had grabbed him, harshly hitting the one without a without power armor with a well placed punch to the gut and then on to the jaw. The soldier hits the ground with a thud, knocked out by the blows. Before the others can react Ulysses tugs the other unarmored soilder into a chock hold mirroring Kane's earlier action with a knife from his coat and a strong grip, restrains the soldier.

The room falls into a standstill in a matter of seconds with three out of the five soldiers incapacitated. The remaining two have weapons but Kane's willing to bet they aren't willing to sacrifice any soldiers all willy nilly with how high alert for a fight the brotherhood seems. Especially a commander with how the brotherhood back at home is with authority. Ulysses remains silent looking to see how Kane will proceed.

They can't act to hastily but if they take to long reinforced may show up, lucky them seem to be in the clear for now. Thinking about it more clearly it was a horrible idea to come here and they regret listening to their curiosity. Sighing, they tightened their arm around the commander's neck. Picking a fight was also a bad idea no matter how mad they got. A hostage might work now but once they get further into the base there's a good chance they'll get shot full of lead. 

Either way there's no point in regrets now, at least there's nothing they can really do to fix the situation. Fighting isn't a great idea because shooting would draw unwanted attention so the most feasible option right now is talking. It probably won't work but they might be able to talk the soldiers here into a deal, they've done it in worse situations before so it's worth a try. 

Kane speaks with an forced neutral tone, the mechanical speakers in their helmet crackling, "To be honest I really didn't want it to go this way. We really weren't looking for a fight.” They tighten the grip on their gun, "But this went south a lot quicker than I thought it would. I really don't want to have to kill anyone if I don't have to, and I don't think you want that either so can you please just let us stay together and leave Ed-e alone? I'm willing to answer any questions you have and let your commander go if we can all just play nice.

The commander chuckles gravely, voice strained from the chokehold, “Even if you kill us you won't get out of here alive. I doubt you could even make it out of this ro— Ack!”

Kane tightens the chokehold, briefly cutting off the commander's air supply causing him to choke and gasp in pain for a few seconds. Looking back at the other soilder they haven't made any move or said anything yet. This is not looking good.

Just as Kane is about to continue speaking they are interrupted by someone entering the room, an older fellow dressed as a Brotherhood Elder, seeing the situation his eyes widen in suprise.

The commander gasps out a name, “Elder Lyons–”

Kane tightens their hold again before looking at the Elder, “Are you in charge here? Why don't we have a chat?”