My late night convenience store grocery run was uneventful until I stepped out of entrance. But before that, let tell you, there is nothing like walking out at night. Being free from doubt, and enjoying the scenery the moonlight has to offer. Add music to the mix, and anything on your mind usually gets put in the spotlight. Gotta love self doubt.
The last thing I ever thought about was how damn bright those damn headlights were before realizing that car was going to hit me. Not wanting to die like a coward, I didn't close my eyes or try to avoid it, despite my best efforts, the face I made after I got hit must have been pretty stupid.
I figured the only significance to my death would be a mention on the local news channel but that would be the end of it.
Anyway back on track here, I awaken from a proning position with a sore back and a nostril filled with smoke. I thought I should be dead already, but taking in my surroundings, it seems that it has somehow rolled into late afternoon, which made my scratch my head. Looking around, the store seemed aged, not like a few weeks abandoned, but a few years. Looking at my feet, the cracks in the pavement is big enough to put my foot in, which I willingly ignore. Looking for any sign of life, I hear that occasional gunfire is popping off somewhere, but otherwise, not a living soul to be seen.
Crouching down, I recognize the side walk formation I was currently standing on, and this was were impact happened. But the car nor store wall was still standing.
I stumbled a little more than I would've hoped, but I find a oddly dressed girl in a white dress and blue jacket, along with pink hair and a white looking AR-15 with it as well.
"Uh, nice AR-15?"
"Who are you? Are you with the KCCO or Sangvis Ferri?"
"Uhmm, neither? Don't worry I'm not armed!" 'Fuck! why did I say that, I have a conceal carried glock 17 on my right side'
"I said identify yourself!"
"Uh, I'm just a dude who is lost."
'It seemed to have worked since she came cautiously with her gun raised and a stern look on her face. I recognize it from somewhere... oh yeah she was just some 4 sta-'
"You don't look in uniform of any faction, come with me."
"Don't have to tell me twice, putting my arms down now."
I let out a long sign and I go for a handshake. "I'm Josh by the way."
She points her gun at me before accepting the hand shake. We then walk, or to rephrase that, she walks behind me while jabbing her fucking muzzle into my back. Luckily, I'm wearing an overcoat, so she doesn't notice I'm armed, for now.
It was like this for the next 20 minutes before we come across more the these doll like freaks under the cover of a collapsed freeway.
"AR-15, who is this, a prisoner I suppose?"
"I'm a hostage you Hk4- six shit."
"Oh it speaks."
"*Yawn* What?"
"What do we have here? This boy with replenish our recently dead commander."
"Lucky him." Sadly I get a muzzle poke to the back of my spine again. 2/10 would do again.
"Tape his mouth and keep a close eye on him. Squad let's head back."
Great, now I have to breathe through my nose, not that is was a problem, but they removed my mask. You know, the one that concealed my face.
I guess shutting me up was kind of smart, they bound my hands to my front, so I could still draw my pistol if need be, but they are kinda short. Like, all kind of a similar height, only slighter shorter or taller than the other. I could try and run, but then again I am lost, and this does look like an active warzone. So I will pass on that, plus these things seem fit enough to run.
After looking a the sky every few minutes to pass the time, we finally made it to their base of operations.
"Wait here. Don't try anything funny." She said before painfully ripping off the tape.
"Not a comedian so you might have to ask someone else." I only got a dirty stare back.
"This is Echelon 3 requesting entry to the forward base camp. Currently have one prisoner in custody."
"HK416 reporting."
'Ok average dps'
"G11 here."
'Be useful and go to sleep loli'
"UMP45 present."
'Overrated'
"UMP9 reporting in."
'Off brand UMP45'
"ST AR-15 here, all clear."
"Like I said, average story mode 4 sta-."
"You spit something prisoner?"
"No unless you want me to." I wink at her. Before I die a second time, I am saved by average dps five star stopping the muzzle from dislocating my spine. The entrance was rather nice, with a decontamination room and my various items being collected and monitored.
We enter and I am taken into an interrogation room which looks a lot like a plain dorm. Sadly, I was stripped of my weapon, overcoat, phone, and hat. My comb over was the only thing to keep me preoccupied while I wait to be questioned.
There was a couch and some refreshments on the other side of the white walled room. With a window to let sunlight in. It reminded me of the prisons in Norway or Sweden or something.
I moved from a table and chair onto a couch. Leaning back, the tea in my hand really helped with my mood. The only thing out of place in my room was a mirror that took up an entire wall. Lifting myself up and walking over to it, I place my finger on it and notice it's one of those 2 way mirrors. I smirk and wave before sitting back down.
Not long after my silence is interrupted by a female dressed in a red and slightly black militaryish uniform with a clipboard in hand.
"Gonna question me or what... Helina?" I say while folding my arms.
"How do you know my name and faction?"
"I read the manga." She pushes up her glasses in frustration and signs before looking back at me.
"You are smart enough to discover our mirror, and somehow know my name, so please try and stay on topic before I doubt your intellect any further."
"Ouch, fine I'll play along."
"Full name, age, and affiliated faction please."
"Josh Marso, 17, high school student."
"Why are you naming yourself with an outdated affiliation?"
"Since it's the only thing I know."
"What year do you think it is?"
"If I had to guess, then around 2055?"
"A few years off but not a bad guess."
"Next, how did you know the name of some of our t-dolls."
"I've met them in the past, I'll leave it at that."
"How would you combat Sangvis Ferri and the KCCO."
"Um, with a good solid squad consisting of either an Ar, or Smg combo, or spice it up with Mg's and shotguns."
"Interesting, I'll question Persica and Kalina about you. I know what I need to know now. You'll get your own room and personal items soon enough."
"Thanks I need a refill on my tea as well." I say while holding up my tea. Well before I knew it, the door is already closed. I wished I told her about how to clear Isomer, man the reaction would be worth it for sure.
Sadly that conversation got the best of me, and the couch got comfortable enough to sleep on. I waited until my personal possessions were returned and a new room was shown to me before I really hit the hay.
I was taken out of the room by an armed Belfas- G36 and some other dolls I couldn't make out. I was getting a mad hotel vibe, but that's better than sleeping outside I guess. I undress a little before inspecting my glock on my bed. They gave me a few empty magazines but that's pretty much it. Neat. Well might as well call it a night.
I dozed off more than I would have liked but I ended up shrugging it off. The view from my 1st story room wasn't that bad. As if a wall had much depth to it anyway.My first day wasn't so bad. I would give it a decent AirBnb rating, but I did technically get interrogated by the former resident so that is definitely going on my review.
I chuckled to myself before putting on a sweatshirt, jeans, hat, mask, and boots. (All black btw) It was rather cold overall, like some factory or something, so I made sure to cover up for good measure. It has a mirror next to the door like in many hotel rooms. Checking myself out, I wish I had some weapon on me, if I remember correctly, even the regular worker girls were armed.
I was escorted again, totally not because I was lost or anyhting. The mess hall was a decent walk away, but the things I saw proved to me that this was a full scale operating base.
Upon entering the mess hall, old new school Vietnam vibes flashed through my head. Various groups and squads already sitting together, scanning the room nervously, luckily there was an open seat by the window. How convenient author-kun. After getting my food, the walk to the window seat seemed like torture. God fuck how many people could stare at me at once, just because I was a new face??!!
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I finally get my table, I expected some peace and quiet but I had a better chance completing Isomer on my first try.
"Hi I'm Kalina." She said with a smile too big.
"And?"
"I'm so glad I didn't have to drag you in here, but all the girls are gathered hear today so you can set up your echelons Commander."
I almost spit out my food, and about to wave her off when she stated:
"I'll let get their introductions ready, I also made preset squads using certain types of guns. I will need you to pick 6 Sub Machine Gun's, 9 Automatic Rifle's, and 4 Light Machine Guns's, and Shotguns. The first 3 Echelons will take a Automatic Rifle and Sub Machine Gun combo like you mentioned earlier, while the other two will consist of 2 Light Machine Guns, 2 Rifles, and 2 Shotguns."
"Wow, thanks" If only I had this help early game Kalina, instead you rip me off like a greedy mother-".
"Also, you better eat slow, the majority of the girls wanted to have a little conversation with you before joining your ranks. So be prepared to talk."
"Oh just splendid." Are you kidding me, well this is going to be a long day.
"HKM4? I have no need for such a name anymore!"
"Ok, that's nice, well you are a five star so you'll be the leader of the first echelon."
"Oh thank goodness, thank you commander."
"No problem, next?"
"Did you forget anything?... Just don't forget about me."
"Oh clingy already, well due to my current relationship status, welcome to the team, join green eyes over there. Next."
"Don't try and persuade me! I'm still going to eat those hot wings even if they're super spicy."
"Um, ok, I guess I'm a fan of spicy food as well, welcome to Echelon 1." What I have a soft spot for brunettes. :/
"You're really diligent, aren't you, Commander? I wouldn't mind even if you slacked off a bit."
"I just started, plus I'm in the mood for this now, just get in echelon 2 for me. Thanks, next?"
"A world without police? That's great, I can do as I like now!"
"Good point, really good point. Get on Echelon 1." I'll just commit to some things.
"Hm... I think I should put a tank of nitrogen in the first aid kit, not that I know what good it'll do."
"Ok almost tsundere, you will have your uses, get in Echelon 2."
"What's my thing? Jack Daniels, for sure."
"Nice going, Jack Daniels, you'll totally get to drink under my command."
"That.. tickles a bit..."
"Oh great just what I needed, you know what Cinnamon Roll? Go be useful and creep out the others in Echelon 2."
"What did you say?" "I said shut it Jack Daniels."
"What is it? Let me take a look too!"
"It's just the Echelon roster, oh would you look at that, I need you in Echelon 2, btw never come near my office without my direct order."
"I wonder when it will be my turn...?"
"Oh shut up, what an introduction, get your ass on Echelon 3 before I poke you with my muzzle. Not so cool now huh."
"Don't call me Auntie BAR! I'm not that old!"
"Ok, well I respect the uniform, so that's point in my book. Who's next?"
"This chest of mine keeps getting in the way and I can't do anything about it!"
"Sounds like a you problem, join Auntie Bar."
"I've been waiting for you, Commander."
"Ok smug stalker, keep that face on when I don't let 9 in the same Echelon you fla-"
Quick pause, I didn't get slapped, I fell, so the ground could give me a cheek kiss, yeah.
"Is it going to rain today? Let's make a bet, Commander!"
"I'll do you one better, I bet you will be in Echelon 5, oh look I'm right, now get."
"You should watch some more history shows if you have so much spare time."
"Hey, I just got here, so I'll get situated first, then talk to me on how I should spend my time. Get out of my face twin tails."
"I really hope these peaceful days will last forever."
"But I won't have a job, sorry to ruin your fantasy, unless it is with me then keep dreaming."
"My shield has been modified again, not bad right?"
"Just keep telling yourself that, you know where to go."
"Where are you looking at?"
"Your tits, if you continue to dress like that."
"Hey that's mean, learn some manners."
"Learn some dress etiquette." Fuck me, are we done yet?
"What is it Commander? You should be a bit more happier when you see me!"
"Sorry about that, you do have cute ears though, I'll keep that in mind."
"Um... what do you think of my recent performance?"
"I mean, you dress nicely, so that's a green light from my end, keep it up Tess."
"You need something Commander?"
"Yeah put on some pants and get in Echelon 4."
"Hey Josh one more thing."
"What is it joyful scam artist?"
"Who is going to be your adjutant?" She leans in closer and whispers: "Like, who is going to be the lucky girl?"
"I'll think about it later." Fuck my food got cold, might as well request some while I'm in my office, hmm maybe an adjutant wouldn't hurt.
I left rather quickly and followed the signs to get out of that mess hall.
After formal assessment and consideration, the first 4 Echelons will be as follows: Echelon 1-UMP45, Micro Uzi, Gr G41, FAL, K11. Echelon 2-Thompson, Shipka, M4A1, M4 SOPMOD II, M16A1. Echelon 3- M2HB, Zas M21, M1918, M500, Spas-12. Echelon 4-Ots-12, KS-23, Type97s, MG3, AEK-999. *Please don't bully me over the Echelons I'm running.*
Sadly, I get sidetracked while passing by the unlocked armory, so I help myself to acquiring a proper weapon. Metal tables held dissasembled guns of various calibers. I didn't recognize a majority of the parts so I backed off from that section. In the other corner, a rack of ak type looking guns layed idle perfect for the taking.
After leaving the Armory, the hallways seemed a little smaller but I got a gun! Finally, going to feel like I belong here now. I picked up an AK-12, I don't think they would mine.
The strap fitted nicely on my shoulder, but since I didn't have a vest, I resorted to shoving spare mags in pockets. Luckily I made it to my office before I tripped like an idiot. I leaned the rifle against my desk, and just scattered the magazine on the surface.
Leaning in the office chair, the time sadly reflected that it was already 3 pm. So I decided to spend the rest of the day at the shooting range.
Peeping inside, I exhaled a sigh of relief as no one else was around, besides a few bullet casings and dummy targets.
I started with a glock 17, inspecting it, it felt a little heavy in my hands, and I wish I had some gloves with me. I fire a total of 56 rounds before the gun gets too hot for me to handle. ;). I noticed that I decorated the wall quite well with a decent spread of bullet holes.
But not wanting to feel too disappointed, I put the AK-12 on the table and load the magazines which take quick awhile. By the time I finish, 2 dolls entered the shooting range. I remember one being AR-15 with her distinct look, while the other one was a HK variant, I'll figure it out soon enough.
"You like the AK and her variants?"
"Uh, actually I'm kind of an AR/M4 type of guy. I just noticed the AK-12 first in the armory. I'll shoot your gun type eventually."
"Wait really?"
"Yeah, I stand by my word of being an AR/M4 type of guy. No offence HK-"
"33 Commander."
"Thanks, carry on, I got my shooting itch out of the way." I wave before returning the pistol to be cleaned, while I keep the AK-12 to be kept in my office. I only spent the next few minutes alone before Kalina barges in a explains she and Helian set up some training missions to make sure I transition smoothly enough. If I remember correctly, we are probably following chapter 01 of the combat missions. I thank her and force her out.
Now realizing I now have an actual job, my plan is to start sending my Echelons on daily logistic missions and combat simulations for the next few weeks. While also training individual skills sets and getting to know them personally. Sure progress was slow in the beginning but knowing what I will have to deal with "late game", everything I do now will be crucial towards an easier experience. Then again, since it is so early on, might as well take it slow before I execute this plan. Then I'll have a harem to deal with, so might as well not dive into that right away now.
Oh, that's right, I have squad 404 to deal with, yay. I decide to take them out back and order all of them into a jeep so we could talk in private. Sadly, without the jeep on, it got pretty humid, to I started the engine before making room for myself in the back.
"Listen, well just relay my orders to G11 later, but since you are important to the lore blah blah, I'll send you on intelligence and assassination runs against Sangvis forces over the next few weeks. Any complaints?"
"No Commander, I'll make sure to stay safe for your sake."
"Thanks, HK416, any thoughts nine or forty five?"
"No, better than sitting around here with you, not that I mind..."
"I'm flattered, try to enjoy yourselves out there, I'll let Kalina know of our little operation. I'll see you all again eventually."
"Bye Commander."
"See you later 416, 45 and 9. Good night G11."
I toss the keys in the front seat before exiting the vehicle. I want to get my leveling and experience farming to begin operation, but I can't whale out of this situation. Then I have the affection galore problem I will have to deal with later down the line, so might as well make a training guideline for each echelon to help them. In the mean time, I need a proper meal before I start using Kalina for those sweet sweet combat reports.
I enter the mess hall yet again, and tell the worker doll for my food to be brought to my office directly, any means necessary. I pick up the pace while leaving and get comfortable at my desk.
Waiting for my meal, I admire the gun on my desk, or look out the window to pass the time. Eventually G36 knocked and entered.
"Master, sorry for the wait, the worker girl forgot what you ordered since it was a request that was out of the ordinary. She took a while to remember what you asked her to do."
"No I'm sorry, I should have clarified when I had the chance, I'm the only one in the wrong here."
"Well, here is your food master, anything else you need from me?"
"Mind if I ask a question?"
"No, ask away sir."
"Why the maid persona, I don't understand."
"Since it is something I liked and chose to do, it isn't your problem."
"And if it wasn't your job?"
"I'd find some other way to serve you."
"Well, I guess that kind of clears up my worry about you, I assumed someone or something was forcing you to do this. But I am glad your chose to do this yourself." I guess I was kind enough with my words. I guess it would have been a useful game mechanic to talk to your dolls directly, even if it was a spare phrase or so. Then again, they were idle 2d images that said prerecorded messages. But now it's different, she's now in front of me for real. Guess I can't blankly stare like she's on my phone. I stop looking at the ground and close the distance between us. Before she can respond, I hug her tightly and don't let go for the next minute.
"Thank you for choosing to serve me, I'll try to make it up to you for everything you do, so don't work too hard for me ok..."
"Uh, why yes of course master. I'll see myself out." She was really blushing now, which caused me to smirk a little. I took the rest of my time to write out schedules and plans for the coming weeks. I guess it wouldn't hurt to do a little presentation over my cheap battle plan. Speaking of which, I need to talk to Perscia about daily t-doll and fairy production. Guess I'll visit the factory on the daily then.
I put on my usual face coverings and overcoat and head out of my office. Looking both ways like I'm crossing the street, I scan the tile floored hallway to try and see any movement. Following the map installed on my phone, I find the t-doll and equipment production area.
"Oh hey Commander."
"Hey Persica. You seem as tired as G11. And even me, I'm surprised."
"Oh, I just need coffee to continue my work, next to visit please bring me some."
"Yeah, I can get you coffee if you follow my construction orders for the next few weeks. Let me know there are any problems that arise. Good luck."
"Oh, sure." God I felt like I was looking at a dead fish during that conversation. How much coffee does she even drink.
Feeling bored and still having time, I decide to just walk around and enjoy the cloudy weather. So quirky ik. Besides the occasional t-doll either waving or ignoring me as I passed, the outside of the based seemed peaceful. Wanted a better view passed the border wall, I decide to step outside it.
The ground felt satisfying as I took one step at a time further away from the base. The descent down the cracked sidewalk was really something.
Destroyed cars and various decayed buildings dotted the landscape. The apocalyptic scenery was kind of beautiful in it's own right. If only it was a movie set. The cloudy atmosphere really added to the mood I was feeling while walking through. Not wanting to get lost due to my sense of direction, I tried to follow a straight path.
After enjoying the sights, I backtrack to the best of my ability until I am just a few meters from the command center border wall. Various cracks and bullet holes dotted the wall with varying degrees of combat exposure. I couldn't help but stare. From the looks of it, one could easily assume that at least 15 battles took place here. Slipping through a crack in the wall, and luckily not clipping my coat on anything, I enter.
The outside of the forward base camp had a few t-dolls on the roofs and on the ground. I waved before entering, but it didn't really matter since I couldn't make out what model they were anyway.
The airconditioning hits different if you know what I mean. But due to protocol I have to enter the rescue station before I enter the cafe or dorm. I take off my coat and face coverings to get decontaminated. After getting that chore done, I'm walking through a hallway again not really knowing what I should do now. If I remember correctly, the early game is about to start meaning I will get put into training sessions while being watched. I guess having an exact date wouldn't hurt too bad.
Making my way down to main lobby, I wait for her to show up at some point.
After standing around for about 30 minutes, I give up and decide to call it a night. The time was rather early, but my sore back was a nail in the coffin for the urge to sleep.
Walking back to my office one last time. My bed and bathroom was in the room adjacent to the desk. Opening the door with caution, I look around to find nothing. I expected for someone to be in here due to leaving it unlocked, but I relaxed my shoulders and strip down.
Laying in bed, the moon replaced the previous afternoon lighting with a calming stream of brightness. I close my eyes to the outline of my glock on my nightstand.