[ All he can think at first is how good it is to be out of that orange jumpsuit. The moment Wash has some armor on again for the first time in years, he finally feels like himself again. Like he finally has something that's been missing during his entire stint in prison. Even after so long without it, it still feels like a second skin.
Only once he's suited up does the rest of the situation begin to fully sink in. Some mercs took over the ship looking for some footsoldiers, some easy numbers to add to their ranks. He doesn't care about their cause, whatever it is. He'll fight, he'll help them, but he isn't going to be doing it for them. This is for him. This is probably his last chance to get the hell out of prison and break away from this mess he calls a life. It hadn't worked the first time--he'd underestimated the sim troopers and what they were capable of. They'd managed to kill the Meta and escape, leaving him behind, injured and as good as dead. South would have approved. This time though, he doesn't plan on failing. This time, he's going to do whatever the hell it takes, and he's going to get himself the freedom that he fucking deserves. Cost be damned.
It doesn't come as a surprise to him that finding out they have a Freelancer on board interests the mercs. Especially if they're fighting one who's causing them problems. Familiar enough with the more important news that's been broadcast across the galaxy, he knows it must be Carolina. However that was possible. While his status as an ex-Freelancer is not something he'd planned to bring up, happier to keep as invisible as possible, Wash is fully aware of the Counselor being on the ship as well, and of course he'd offer up all of this helpful information. Get on the good side of the guys willing to kill him.
He puts up no resistance when a couple of the mercenaries' men lead him off to speak with them. He has no reason to. Besides, it might help him out in the long run, anyway. He's something they want on their side, and they can offer him what he wants. Everyone wins. So, when he's shoved into a room with one of the mercs--the big one--Wash doesn't bother playing dumb. No point. Wastes time. ]
I'm betting you've at least started to read the files on me since Price told you I was here.
[ After all these years, he only ever got a name to put to the Counselor's face after they'd been locked up on the same prison ship. Go figure.
While he's not particularly hostile, Wash does keep his guard up as he stands across from the other armored figure. Even if working together will benefit them both, he doesn't trust that this will automatically go over smoothly. He doesn't trust anything to. He does take a moment to glance over the other man, trying to get some kind of read on him, but it's difficult to pick anything up. He doesn't seem as...chatty as his friend. ]
Are those not offering enough insight, or did you just want to ask me about everything in person?
[ The documents detail a great deal about this Agent Washington. He knows he'd nearly been thrown out of the army altogether for insubordinate action that saved the lives of his fellow soldiers. He knows Project Freelancer had been something like a last chance for him to prove himself.
And then the root of corruption at the heart of the project had been exposed, the Director taken down, and everyone who remained jailed for their collaboration with him. As the sole surviving Freelancer, as far as official records were concerned, Washington had taken the fall for just about everything they could throw at him.
What a waste. A Freelancer could be put to far better uses than rotting in a jail cell. Luckily, Washington had been one of those wise enough to grasp the bars of his cell for dear life.
He wanted to live. He wanted to fight for his freedom. That was a good starting point if there ever was one.
Now Locus regards him carefully, calculatingly. It's true, he's not as vocal as Felix, but he has no time to waste words. Fortunately, Washington seems a man who appreciates expediency. ]
The Counselor has already made notes about the lack of depth those documents provide.
[ Locus hadn't moved from his spot, beside a large illuminated table showing a grid and various settlements and bases on Chorus. One of which might be of interest to Washington very, very soon. ]
He offered to fill in the gaps, given his extensive work with you. I'd prefer to hear what use you might to us from you, directly.
[ Of course. Good old Counselor, ready and willing to spill all of an agent's deepest, darkest secrets that hadn't even been recorded just to spare his own life. Wash can't blame him for using what he has to keep himself alive, of course--that would be hypocritical. But it doesn't mean he appreciates the fact that the man had been so quickly willing to spill classified, personal information on him. ]
Smart. A tip? Don't trust the Counselor as far as you can throw him.
[ It's vague, but that hardly matters as far as Wash is concerned. Personally, he'd have preferred if the mercs had chosen to kill Price on the spot. You could say he has something of a grudge against the guy, and him knowing as much as he does? It's not something Wash cares for.
Still, that's hardly the most important thing in these current circumstances. The mercenary would rather hear what he has to offer from him rather than the Counselor? That works for him. The ex-Freelancer's eyes flit briefly over the table to the man's side, but it all means little to him and his gaze soon fixes itself to where the visor on the merc's helmet would be, if it actually had one. ]
You want to know what use I might be to you? I doubt there's another soldier on this ship with the same level of training that I have. And frankly, if it gets me out of prison and keeps me the hell out, I don't care what I have to do.
[ He's entirely prepared to be as ruthless as he needs to be. He doesn't even care about the money, all he wants is the freedom. ]
You also mentioned that the other side has a Freelancer? I can guarantee that I know her. We worked together for a long time, I know her combat style.
[ Though if he's right and it is Carolina... Even knowing her combat style, he's not sure he'd be able to win in a fight against her. He'd be able to hold his own for a while, he's improved a lot in his own combat skills and that's likely enough to catch her off guard, but he's sure she'd adapt quickly. She'd still be able to beat him, even after all this time. ]
And it sounds to me like you need all the advantages you can get.
You would still be a prisoner in your cell if we did not.
[ It's blunt, but honest. He has no notions of holding what's at stake over Washington's head. There's a job to do, and the sooner they get to it, the better.
He does take note of his regard for Price, or lack thereof. Felix doesn't like him, but he takes offense to anyone he thinks might be capable of outmaneuvering him. Price is cunning and quick-witted, and does pose some measure of usefulness to the mission, but his loyalty cannot be counted on.
And loyalty counts for a great deal. That's the next question that comes to mind in fact, his gaze still steady on Washington. ]
And would you have qualms about fighting her in the field?
[ Better to know upfront. Whether that's something they're willing to work around or a deal-breaker isn't clear in his tone of voice. After all, he doesn't want to lend him any sort of bias, no inkling as to what the 'right' answer might be.
[ A fair enough point. They aren't exactly subtle about needing all the help they can get. If the bluntness of the statement bothers Wash, he doesn't show it, simply offers a slight incline of his head in something of a half-nod.
There's the question of Carolina, though. The lack of a tell of whether him having a problem with fighting her is going to cause an issue or not doesn't particularly affect him. Does he have qualms about fighting her in the field? No. He doesn't. Would he rather it not come to that? Sure. Though this is largely due to the fact that he's not under the impression he could win, not so much the fact that they used to be teammates. Friends. If she's been alive this whole time, where was she when he needed help? Why not give him a sign that she was okay?
Carolina has done nothing for him in years. Why should he be concerned with sparing her? ]
I did say that I don't care what I have to do. No, I wouldn't have any qualms about fighting her.
[ Even if there's something on the edge of implying the words 'if it comes to that' in his tone of voice, he's telling the truth. They used to be friends. He has memories not his own of raising her, of her growing up. But he's not going to let any of it get in the way if it comes down to him having to fight her. ]
Last I heard, she was working with the idiots who landed me where I am now. I can't say that's endeared her much to me.
You worked together before, and you see no issue in fighting her.
[ That's not judgement, just clarification. Anyone that willing to turn on someone they were once partnered with should be taken note of. They'll use that if they can, and Wash may have the chance to prove just how true that sentiment is, but he'd rather know exactly where the bounds of this man's loyalties will lie before turning him loose.
The answer is not a disappointing one, however. Carolina has proven cunning, more than a worthy opponent. They'll need the edge Washington can provide. ]
No. I might prefer it not come to that, but if it does...
[ Trailing off, he lets his original answer stand. If it comes to that, then it does. He'll fight. Carolina maybe hasn't done anything directly to him, but there's a lot to be said for the other things that she hasn't done, too. And if fighting people who used to be friends is what it takes for him to get the hell out of this mess, then so be it. ]
Fighting people I used to work with isn't something I'm unfamiliar with.
[ Although, it's usually been them betraying him or being under the control of some mad AI that initiates the fights. Still, the mercs can take that as they will. They can take his records as they will. Wash doesn't care. They can trust him so long as they have something that he needs. No, he's not likely to be the most loyal of all the inmates they picked up for their fight and no, he's not going to trust any of the people he deals with. But as long as they can give him what he wants and needs after this is all over, they can trust him that far. ]
[ Good to know where those limitations are beforehand, to know exactly how much of a benefit he is as opposed to a liability.
That pragmatism is at the very least understandable, and does Washington some credit in Locus's eyes. He wouldn't have expected immediate and undying loyalty from anyone they managed to scrape out of the jail cells on the Tartarus. It was luck alone that one of the prisoners had proven to be someone of interest to them. Other than gratitude for his freedom, Washington owed them little.
But he wants to survive. He wants his freedom. Reasonable goals. Simple. He might even get them, in the end, provided he holds up his end of things to a degree that satisfies their employer.
That dark helmet moves in a slight nod. He understands, at least to the extent he cares to understand. ]
Price told us you also have a history with the Simulation Troopers we've been dealing with.
[ Men who could barely be considered soldiers, and yet who have proven resilient beyond reason. Felix might credit a good portion of that to their Freelancer ally, but underestimating them was a mistake. He'd said so from the beginning. Now, perhaps there will be another on board who doesn't consider the idea completely ridiculous. ]
[ Ohhh, the Sim Troopers. Officially his other point of interest in this whole ordeal. From the moment he heard mention of a Freelancer causing problems, Wash has been wondering if Carolina still had the band of morons with her. This prompt from the merc serves as confirmation that she does. And that they're still causing as much trouble as ever. ]
Let me guess, you underestimated them because they're idiots, but they still managed to do damage. They've only made things more problematic for you.
[ Underestimating the Reds and Blues is a mistake he made, as well. They did nothing but annoy him, drag their feet, and cause problems the entire time he worked with them, but as soon as he turned against them and was sure getting Epsilon from them would prove to be simple... Well. It hadn't been. They'd managed to evade him at every turn. He still doesn't understand how the hell they managed it, but he recognizes them as a proper threat now. When they're together, at least. ]
They're the reason I'm here. So yeah, we have a history. Wouldn't call it a good one.
[ First they hadn't handed in Epsilon like he'd told them to. While him winding up in prison is more or less his own fault, with some help from simply being part of Project Freelancer, not destroying Epsilon had been an important part of the plan. One to prove the Director's guilt once and for all. And one that, possibly, would have kept him out of prison if it had actually been turned in as he'd directed.
Then... They'd left him in the snow, as good as dead, after everything that had happened with Tex and the Meta. Again, they'd turned their backs on him and ruined his plan. Epsilon had ended up in the capture unit, but it had shut down, rendering it utterly useless. Not what the Chairman had wanted--an AI that he couldn't get answers or proof from. Again, he found himself in prison at least partially under their fault.
He's got a history with the Simulation Troopers, all right. And if they're here? Wash fully intends on giving them some payback. It's clear in his tone that his feelings in regard to them are aggressive, even as he keeps his voice level. He has no intention of filling anyone in on the whole story, or just how deeply betrayed he feels at their hands, but it's a challenge to not let some of the emotion seep into his voice. He has, after all, been stuck in a cell to dwell on it all this whole time. ]
They were underestimated, yes. Had it been my choice, they would have been dealt with promptly. But what might have been done is no longer a concern. Only what will be done, now.
[ Blame, revenge, none of that matters to him. Felix was eager to throw it in every direction but his own, but looking back should provide clarity, not further muddlement and confusion. All Locus can see is the end goal and what lies between him and that point. Whatever that is, it will be dealt with. There's no personal stake in that, no matter what Price decides to offer as incentive along the way.
After all, he is a soldier. Nothing more, nothing less. And nothing has given him pause or a reason to believe otherwise.
Locus shifts, turning his back fully to the table as he regards Washington where he stands. The resentment in his voice is clear, even if he's doing an admirable job of maintaining calm. ]
They cannot be allowed to remain a threat to our mission here. But make no mistake. Revenge will come second to your orders.
[ To that, Wash only nods. Dwelling on the past is something that he does, is what gives him the drive to keep moving, but in the case of what could have been done with the Reds and Blues, it's true that focusing on that is of no benefit to anyone. Better to focus on the new course of action.
When the mercenary turns to face him fully, the Freelancer unconsciously stands ever so slightly taller. The fact that it seems to feel necessary to inform him that orders will be more important than getting revenge shouldn't be all that surprising to him, considering he's being taken on along with a bunch of other war criminals, and yet... To some part of him, it still is. Project Freelancer had been all over the place on the importance of orders and protocol and it's been so long since Wash has had any sort of lecture on it that it simply catches him off guard. ]
Of course. Wouldn't want to compromise the mission for some petty revenge.
[ And he won't. If the mission is going to result in his freedom, he'll do what it takes to get that. That means following orders. If he gets some revenge along the way, even just the smallest amount possible, it'll only be a bonus. He fully intends to get some payback, but Wash's main goal is surviving and getting the hell out. It's not one he'll compromise, even in the wake of getting revenge.
Even with his complete intention to have orders come first, the response comes with a dry edge to it. Something verging on sarcastic without ever actually touching it. There's just something almost amusing in someone expecting such obedience from a ship full of criminals. Such obedience from anyone, for that matter. But maybe he has a more cynical outlook on such things. ]
[ They all are given ample opportunity to understand what will and won't be tolerated. While their new stock of soldiers may be given more free reign than their own crew, there are lines. They will be big, bold lines that can be seen a mile off, so that it will be understood when one of them crosses that line and suffers the consequences.
Obedience and freedom, or death. It's not a difficult choice to make, not for men whose lives so very recently were devoid of any remaining choices.
But Washington is not one of them, not in the same sense. He was better than them, and worth a great deal more than what he had been reduced to. A capable soldier, if not the best Freelancer had to offer. And one of the only remaining survivors. There is value in that, and Locus does not intend to waste it. Least of all through some errant miscommunication about what they expect from him. ]
Good. Then you'll have the chance to prove it.
[ And with that, Locus turns back to the table, bringing up a holographic projection of Crash Site Alpha. ]
[ While he's not actively going to seek a chance to prove anything, he'll take an opportunity should it be provided. He has nothing to prove to anyone and doesn't particularly care what anyone thinks of him, he won't turn a chance down if it means being given a bit more free reign, or even if it simply helps those in charge of the mission to keep him in mind.
The merc turns his attention back to the table and Wash has the sense that he's just been dismissed. Without being told to do so verbally, however, he has a few questions of his own to ask. Whether or not any real details will be shared with him remains to be seen, but he'd like as much of an idea of what this all entails as he can get.
Without being invited, he steps forward, closer to the table and glances over the projection. ]
What is this mission, exactly?
[ Not that it'll affect his agreement to assist in any way, but he'd rather know what he's getting himself in to before he takes his first step. Also, he wouldn't mind knowing how the Sim Troopers got involved in the first place. Awfully big coincidence for him to have wound up out here right where they just so happen to be. ]
Your friend wasn't overly specific when explaining it earlier. While I can understand not offering a standard briefing to a shipful of inmates, I know that some of us are used to having more details.
[ Though none of them are in any kind of position to be complaining about not having said details. ]
[ They aren't. But Washington is a special case, and treating him as one of the common rabble they've stirred up isn't particularly advantageous to anyone. After a moment's hesitation, Locus shifts, allowing Washington a closer look at the hologram. \
When the Simulation Troopers crashed on this planet, their ship was torn in half. This is Crash Site Alpha.
[ Blue outlines illuminate the alien tower they'd converted in their tractor beam, the rest of the wasteland dotted with fragments of ship hull and engine parts. Around this, an encampment has been built. ]
A set of minor victories has given our enemies confidence. They will want to strike harder, under the impression that this will drive us off. Of our strategic holds on the planet, this is the most likely to fall under attack.
[ Felix had seemed very certain that Kimball would vote for a more aggressive push. Knowing that gave them a slight advantage, but it would be for nothing if they couldn't find a way to use that information to its fullest. ]
[ Oh, good. They're not going to play the 'how much do I have to push to get some info' game. Wash is prepared to needle, but Locus seems relatively willing to share, enough so that it doesn't even require a second question. Wash can appreciate that.
After Locus moves, giving him a better view of the holographic layout, the ex-Freelancer steps closer yet. If he's going to be given more intel than the rest of the most recent recruits, he's going to make the most of it. His eyes scan over the projection again, this time taking in more of the detail as he listens to what the merc says. ]
So let them.
[ Though he's had no intention of offering thoughts in terms of battle strategies, not with how little he knows of what's going on, this feels rather obvious. Wash doesn't stop himself from pointing it out. ]
If it's that likely that they're going to attack, let them. Let them think that they have the advantage. They won't be aware that you've just recruited more soldiers, so lure them in under their false pretences and surprise them with your increased numbers.
[ At which point he activates another module on the projection, and a series of lights line the perimeter and several easily defensible areas. Another set presents itself along the rocky cliff face leading to the site, cutting off all feasible methods of escape once someone enters the area.
An ambush. But it's satisfying to hear that Washington agrees with the tactic, even volunteering it before it had been made clear what the plan was. ]
They'll need to believe our numbers are flagging. False intelligence regarding our numbers has been set at one of our less heavily defended outposts.
[ If they took the bait, it would prove an excellent opportunity to thin their numbers. ]
[ Good. So long as the obvious tactic has already been considered and does, in fact, look to be the plan, he's good. It's good to know he won't be working with-- ...Or, for, idiots.
Nodding his approval, Wash's eyes dart over the additions to the projection. He takes the setting in more carefully now, committing what he can to memory, particularly the points that render escape impossible for those lured into the ambush. ]
So now it's just a matter of waiting.
[ The note comes after a few moments of surveying the hologram, followed a second later by a glance shot in Locus' direction. ]
Do you have a backup plan? I don't know anything about the rest of your enemies, but I do know Carolina and the sim troopers. The latter have a knack for exceeding expectations and weaselling their way out of trouble. With a whole army on their side, the chances of that happening only seem higher.
[ And he's pretty sure he shouldn't have to comment on Carolina. ]
Even with a good strategy, it's not a bad idea to have a spare just in case something goes wrong.
[ Locus watches as Washington takes in the field, the layout of the plans for the ambush. The former Freelancer might not know it, but he was in truth playing into the best-case scenario for this alliance.
That boded well for him in the future. ]
You have something in mind?
[ All contingencies run the risk of the Simulation Troopers somehow getting the better of them, as they've continued to do. The reason still appears unclear, and Carolina has proven uncommunicative at best.
Even if he doesn't necessarily trust Washington, he's willing to trust his intel. Betrayal at this point would win him relatively little, and he has no reason to want to help these men. Carolina is another story, but when Washington says he has no loyalty there either, he believes him. ]
There's a fraction of a second where Wash shows some hesitation, but he turns his head back to the projection of the battlefield. Silent, he studies it, running over possibilities in his head. He doesn't know enough about either side of this war to know what may or may not work, or what may or may not be possible. The equipment available, the men... He has nothing to work off of there.
The Reds and Blues though, he knows well enough. ]
Separate them.
[ Vague as that may be, his thought really is that simple. Looking to Locus, there's certainty clear as day in his voice. ]
Separate the Sim Troopers from one another. That's how they keep beating the odds-- they work together. You get each one on their own, and they're nothing but the incompetent soldiers you'd expect them to be.
[ Why working as a team works so damn well for them, he can't explain. It doesn't matter. What matters is that the only time he's ever had the upper hand on them is when he had one on their own. ]
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lydlos2016-07-24 11:48 am
for agnominal
Only once he's suited up does the rest of the situation begin to fully sink in. Some mercs took over the ship looking for some footsoldiers, some easy numbers to add to their ranks. He doesn't care about their cause, whatever it is. He'll fight, he'll help them, but he isn't going to be doing it for them. This is for him. This is probably his last chance to get the hell out of prison and break away from this mess he calls a life. It hadn't worked the first time--he'd underestimated the sim troopers and what they were capable of. They'd managed to kill the Meta and escape, leaving him behind, injured and as good as dead. South would have approved. This time though, he doesn't plan on failing. This time, he's going to do whatever the hell it takes, and he's going to get himself the freedom that he fucking deserves. Cost be damned.
It doesn't come as a surprise to him that finding out they have a Freelancer on board interests the mercs. Especially if they're fighting one who's causing them problems. Familiar enough with the more important news that's been broadcast across the galaxy, he knows it must be Carolina. However that was possible. While his status as an ex-Freelancer is not something he'd planned to bring up, happier to keep as invisible as possible, Wash is fully aware of the Counselor being on the ship as well, and of course he'd offer up all of this helpful information. Get on the good side of the guys willing to kill him.
He puts up no resistance when a couple of the mercenaries' men lead him off to speak with them. He has no reason to. Besides, it might help him out in the long run, anyway. He's something they want on their side, and they can offer him what he wants. Everyone wins. So, when he's shoved into a room with one of the mercs--the big one--Wash doesn't bother playing dumb. No point. Wastes time. ]
I'm betting you've at least started to read the files on me since Price told you I was here.
[ After all these years, he only ever got a name to put to the Counselor's face after they'd been locked up on the same prison ship. Go figure.
While he's not particularly hostile, Wash does keep his guard up as he stands across from the other armored figure. Even if working together will benefit them both, he doesn't trust that this will automatically go over smoothly. He doesn't trust anything to. He does take a moment to glance over the other man, trying to get some kind of read on him, but it's difficult to pick anything up. He doesn't seem as...chatty as his friend. ]
Are those not offering enough insight, or did you just want to ask me about everything in person?
no subject
And then the root of corruption at the heart of the project had been exposed, the Director taken down, and everyone who remained jailed for their collaboration with him. As the sole surviving Freelancer, as far as official records were concerned, Washington had taken the fall for just about everything they could throw at him.
What a waste. A Freelancer could be put to far better uses than rotting in a jail cell. Luckily, Washington had been one of those wise enough to grasp the bars of his cell for dear life.
He wanted to live. He wanted to fight for his freedom. That was a good starting point if there ever was one.
Now Locus regards him carefully, calculatingly. It's true, he's not as vocal as Felix, but he has no time to waste words. Fortunately, Washington seems a man who appreciates expediency. ]
The Counselor has already made notes about the lack of depth those documents provide.
[ Locus hadn't moved from his spot, beside a large illuminated table showing a grid and various settlements and bases on Chorus. One of which might be of interest to Washington very, very soon. ]
He offered to fill in the gaps, given his extensive work with you. I'd prefer to hear what use you might to us from you, directly.
no subject
Smart. A tip? Don't trust the Counselor as far as you can throw him.
[ It's vague, but that hardly matters as far as Wash is concerned. Personally, he'd have preferred if the mercs had chosen to kill Price on the spot. You could say he has something of a grudge against the guy, and him knowing as much as he does? It's not something Wash cares for.
Still, that's hardly the most important thing in these current circumstances. The mercenary would rather hear what he has to offer from him rather than the Counselor? That works for him. The ex-Freelancer's eyes flit briefly over the table to the man's side, but it all means little to him and his gaze soon fixes itself to where the visor on the merc's helmet would be, if it actually had one. ]
You want to know what use I might be to you? I doubt there's another soldier on this ship with the same level of training that I have. And frankly, if it gets me out of prison and keeps me the hell out, I don't care what I have to do.
[ He's entirely prepared to be as ruthless as he needs to be. He doesn't even care about the money, all he wants is the freedom. ]
You also mentioned that the other side has a Freelancer? I can guarantee that I know her. We worked together for a long time, I know her combat style.
[ Though if he's right and it is Carolina... Even knowing her combat style, he's not sure he'd be able to win in a fight against her. He'd be able to hold his own for a while, he's improved a lot in his own combat skills and that's likely enough to catch her off guard, but he's sure she'd adapt quickly. She'd still be able to beat him, even after all this time. ]
And it sounds to me like you need all the advantages you can get.
no subject
[ It's blunt, but honest. He has no notions of holding what's at stake over Washington's head. There's a job to do, and the sooner they get to it, the better.
He does take note of his regard for Price, or lack thereof. Felix doesn't like him, but he takes offense to anyone he thinks might be capable of outmaneuvering him. Price is cunning and quick-witted, and does pose some measure of usefulness to the mission, but his loyalty cannot be counted on.
And loyalty counts for a great deal. That's the next question that comes to mind in fact, his gaze still steady on Washington. ]
And would you have qualms about fighting her in the field?
[ Better to know upfront. Whether that's something they're willing to work around or a deal-breaker isn't clear in his tone of voice. After all, he doesn't want to lend him any sort of bias, no inkling as to what the 'right' answer might be.
Easier to get the truth that way. ]
no subject
There's the question of Carolina, though. The lack of a tell of whether him having a problem with fighting her is going to cause an issue or not doesn't particularly affect him. Does he have qualms about fighting her in the field? No. He doesn't. Would he rather it not come to that? Sure. Though this is largely due to the fact that he's not under the impression he could win, not so much the fact that they used to be teammates. Friends. If she's been alive this whole time, where was she when he needed help? Why not give him a sign that she was okay?
Carolina has done nothing for him in years. Why should he be concerned with sparing her? ]
I did say that I don't care what I have to do. No, I wouldn't have any qualms about fighting her.
[ Even if there's something on the edge of implying the words 'if it comes to that' in his tone of voice, he's telling the truth. They used to be friends. He has memories not his own of raising her, of her growing up. But he's not going to let any of it get in the way if it comes down to him having to fight her. ]
Last I heard, she was working with the idiots who landed me where I am now. I can't say that's endeared her much to me.
no subject
[ That's not judgement, just clarification. Anyone that willing to turn on someone they were once partnered with should be taken note of. They'll use that if they can, and Wash may have the chance to prove just how true that sentiment is, but he'd rather know exactly where the bounds of this man's loyalties will lie before turning him loose.
The answer is not a disappointing one, however. Carolina has proven cunning, more than a worthy opponent. They'll need the edge Washington can provide. ]
no subject
[ Trailing off, he lets his original answer stand. If it comes to that, then it does. He'll fight. Carolina maybe hasn't done anything directly to him, but there's a lot to be said for the other things that she hasn't done, too. And if fighting people who used to be friends is what it takes for him to get the hell out of this mess, then so be it. ]
Fighting people I used to work with isn't something I'm unfamiliar with.
[ Although, it's usually been them betraying him or being under the control of some mad AI that initiates the fights. Still, the mercs can take that as they will. They can take his records as they will. Wash doesn't care. They can trust him so long as they have something that he needs. No, he's not likely to be the most loyal of all the inmates they picked up for their fight and no, he's not going to trust any of the people he deals with. But as long as they can give him what he wants and needs after this is all over, they can trust him that far. ]
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That pragmatism is at the very least understandable, and does Washington some credit in Locus's eyes. He wouldn't have expected immediate and undying loyalty from anyone they managed to scrape out of the jail cells on the Tartarus. It was luck alone that one of the prisoners had proven to be someone of interest to them. Other than gratitude for his freedom, Washington owed them little.
But he wants to survive. He wants his freedom. Reasonable goals. Simple. He might even get them, in the end, provided he holds up his end of things to a degree that satisfies their employer.
That dark helmet moves in a slight nod. He understands, at least to the extent he cares to understand. ]
Price told us you also have a history with the Simulation Troopers we've been dealing with.
[ Men who could barely be considered soldiers, and yet who have proven resilient beyond reason. Felix might credit a good portion of that to their Freelancer ally, but underestimating them was a mistake. He'd said so from the beginning. Now, perhaps there will be another on board who doesn't consider the idea completely ridiculous. ]
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[ Ohhh, the Sim Troopers. Officially his other point of interest in this whole ordeal. From the moment he heard mention of a Freelancer causing problems, Wash has been wondering if Carolina still had the band of morons with her. This prompt from the merc serves as confirmation that she does. And that they're still causing as much trouble as ever. ]
Let me guess, you underestimated them because they're idiots, but they still managed to do damage. They've only made things more problematic for you.
[ Underestimating the Reds and Blues is a mistake he made, as well. They did nothing but annoy him, drag their feet, and cause problems the entire time he worked with them, but as soon as he turned against them and was sure getting Epsilon from them would prove to be simple... Well. It hadn't been. They'd managed to evade him at every turn. He still doesn't understand how the hell they managed it, but he recognizes them as a proper threat now. When they're together, at least. ]
They're the reason I'm here. So yeah, we have a history. Wouldn't call it a good one.
[ First they hadn't handed in Epsilon like he'd told them to. While him winding up in prison is more or less his own fault, with some help from simply being part of Project Freelancer, not destroying Epsilon had been an important part of the plan. One to prove the Director's guilt once and for all. And one that, possibly, would have kept him out of prison if it had actually been turned in as he'd directed.
Then... They'd left him in the snow, as good as dead, after everything that had happened with Tex and the Meta. Again, they'd turned their backs on him and ruined his plan. Epsilon had ended up in the capture unit, but it had shut down, rendering it utterly useless. Not what the Chairman had wanted--an AI that he couldn't get answers or proof from. Again, he found himself in prison at least partially under their fault.
He's got a history with the Simulation Troopers, all right. And if they're here? Wash fully intends on giving them some payback. It's clear in his tone that his feelings in regard to them are aggressive, even as he keeps his voice level. He has no intention of filling anyone in on the whole story, or just how deeply betrayed he feels at their hands, but it's a challenge to not let some of the emotion seep into his voice. He has, after all, been stuck in a cell to dwell on it all this whole time. ]
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[ Blame, revenge, none of that matters to him. Felix was eager to throw it in every direction but his own, but looking back should provide clarity, not further muddlement and confusion. All Locus can see is the end goal and what lies between him and that point. Whatever that is, it will be dealt with. There's no personal stake in that, no matter what Price decides to offer as incentive along the way.
After all, he is a soldier. Nothing more, nothing less. And nothing has given him pause or a reason to believe otherwise.
Locus shifts, turning his back fully to the table as he regards Washington where he stands. The resentment in his voice is clear, even if he's doing an admirable job of maintaining calm. ]
They cannot be allowed to remain a threat to our mission here. But make no mistake. Revenge will come second to your orders.
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When the mercenary turns to face him fully, the Freelancer unconsciously stands ever so slightly taller. The fact that it seems to feel necessary to inform him that orders will be more important than getting revenge shouldn't be all that surprising to him, considering he's being taken on along with a bunch of other war criminals, and yet... To some part of him, it still is. Project Freelancer had been all over the place on the importance of orders and protocol and it's been so long since Wash has had any sort of lecture on it that it simply catches him off guard. ]
Of course. Wouldn't want to compromise the mission for some petty revenge.
[ And he won't. If the mission is going to result in his freedom, he'll do what it takes to get that. That means following orders. If he gets some revenge along the way, even just the smallest amount possible, it'll only be a bonus. He fully intends to get some payback, but Wash's main goal is surviving and getting the hell out. It's not one he'll compromise, even in the wake of getting revenge.
Even with his complete intention to have orders come first, the response comes with a dry edge to it. Something verging on sarcastic without ever actually touching it. There's just something almost amusing in someone expecting such obedience from a ship full of criminals. Such obedience from anyone, for that matter. But maybe he has a more cynical outlook on such things. ]
I'm familiar with how things work.
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Obedience and freedom, or death. It's not a difficult choice to make, not for men whose lives so very recently were devoid of any remaining choices.
But Washington is not one of them, not in the same sense. He was better than them, and worth a great deal more than what he had been reduced to. A capable soldier, if not the best Freelancer had to offer. And one of the only remaining survivors. There is value in that, and Locus does not intend to waste it. Least of all through some errant miscommunication about what they expect from him. ]
Good. Then you'll have the chance to prove it.
[ And with that, Locus turns back to the table, bringing up a holographic projection of Crash Site Alpha. ]
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The merc turns his attention back to the table and Wash has the sense that he's just been dismissed. Without being told to do so verbally, however, he has a few questions of his own to ask. Whether or not any real details will be shared with him remains to be seen, but he'd like as much of an idea of what this all entails as he can get.
Without being invited, he steps forward, closer to the table and glances over the projection. ]
What is this mission, exactly?
[ Not that it'll affect his agreement to assist in any way, but he'd rather know what he's getting himself in to before he takes his first step. Also, he wouldn't mind knowing how the Sim Troopers got involved in the first place. Awfully big coincidence for him to have wound up out here right where they just so happen to be. ]
Your friend wasn't overly specific when explaining it earlier. While I can understand not offering a standard briefing to a shipful of inmates, I know that some of us are used to having more details.
[ Though none of them are in any kind of position to be complaining about not having said details. ]
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When the Simulation Troopers crashed on this planet, their ship was torn in half. This is Crash Site Alpha.
[ Blue outlines illuminate the alien tower they'd converted in their tractor beam, the rest of the wasteland dotted with fragments of ship hull and engine parts. Around this, an encampment has been built. ]
A set of minor victories has given our enemies confidence. They will want to strike harder, under the impression that this will drive us off. Of our strategic holds on the planet, this is the most likely to fall under attack.
[ Felix had seemed very certain that Kimball would vote for a more aggressive push. Knowing that gave them a slight advantage, but it would be for nothing if they couldn't find a way to use that information to its fullest. ]
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After Locus moves, giving him a better view of the holographic layout, the ex-Freelancer steps closer yet. If he's going to be given more intel than the rest of the most recent recruits, he's going to make the most of it. His eyes scan over the projection again, this time taking in more of the detail as he listens to what the merc says. ]
So let them.
[ Though he's had no intention of offering thoughts in terms of battle strategies, not with how little he knows of what's going on, this feels rather obvious. Wash doesn't stop himself from pointing it out. ]
If it's that likely that they're going to attack, let them. Let them think that they have the advantage. They won't be aware that you've just recruited more soldiers, so lure them in under their false pretences and surprise them with your increased numbers.
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An ambush. But it's satisfying to hear that Washington agrees with the tactic, even volunteering it before it had been made clear what the plan was. ]
They'll need to believe our numbers are flagging. False intelligence regarding our numbers has been set at one of our less heavily defended outposts.
[ If they took the bait, it would prove an excellent opportunity to thin their numbers. ]
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Nodding his approval, Wash's eyes dart over the additions to the projection. He takes the setting in more carefully now, committing what he can to memory, particularly the points that render escape impossible for those lured into the ambush. ]
So now it's just a matter of waiting.
[ The note comes after a few moments of surveying the hologram, followed a second later by a glance shot in Locus' direction. ]
Do you have a backup plan? I don't know anything about the rest of your enemies, but I do know Carolina and the sim troopers. The latter have a knack for exceeding expectations and weaselling their way out of trouble. With a whole army on their side, the chances of that happening only seem higher.
[ And he's pretty sure he shouldn't have to comment on Carolina. ]
Even with a good strategy, it's not a bad idea to have a spare just in case something goes wrong.
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That boded well for him in the future. ]
You have something in mind?
[ All contingencies run the risk of the Simulation Troopers somehow getting the better of them, as they've continued to do. The reason still appears unclear, and Carolina has proven uncommunicative at best.
Even if he doesn't necessarily trust Washington, he's willing to trust his intel. Betrayal at this point would win him relatively little, and he has no reason to want to help these men. Carolina is another story, but when Washington says he has no loyalty there either, he believes him. ]
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There's a fraction of a second where Wash shows some hesitation, but he turns his head back to the projection of the battlefield. Silent, he studies it, running over possibilities in his head. He doesn't know enough about either side of this war to know what may or may not work, or what may or may not be possible. The equipment available, the men... He has nothing to work off of there.
The Reds and Blues though, he knows well enough. ]
Separate them.
[ Vague as that may be, his thought really is that simple. Looking to Locus, there's certainty clear as day in his voice. ]
Separate the Sim Troopers from one another. That's how they keep beating the odds-- they work together. You get each one on their own, and they're nothing but the incompetent soldiers you'd expect them to be.
[ Why working as a team works so damn well for them, he can't explain. It doesn't matter. What matters is that the only time he's ever had the upper hand on them is when he had one on their own. ]