The moment Ash have stepped into the craft and being escorted by the armed humans, she has braced herself on the upcoming events that would soon transpire. She has already prepared herself mentally on how would the dealings with the humans would go, and of course, prepared herself of the possibility she may not be heard out and may even be killed or put into prison for the time's worth. However, at least she has one person to fall upon if that were case, as the individual named... Freeman... is bound to her current situation as her bridge to the humans, much to his dismay, as the moment the arrest was given out by the... talking toy... She could feel the world dropped upon his carapace despite not seeing his face.
Nonetheless, despite how she got into the current situation, it was within parameters of what Ash thinks of a good impression, or at least acceptable levels of impressions she have embarked upon the humans.
Right now, as the whole area was being quickly swept up. Ash observed the humans around her, noting how she couldn't perceive any information around her. Normally, her holomap would have scanned anything near her, but she was actively once more being blocked. Making her rely the bare minimum of functions of her suit, one of those being is enough to allow her to breathe the optimum atmosphere she needed. However, it seems the humans also have a similar issue since all humans she have passed by, also wear some sort of mask apparatus like the two individuals in front of her. The bigger human, whom their entire face was covered by it and the other shorter one with a red mane, only covering her face.
However there is one detail she have noticed that confirmed her secret studies. Which is the non-collaborating environment the humans are in. Though the more accurate term is the lack of someone to collaborate with, as it seems her species were the first aliens they have made contact with per the information extracted from the Grand Subjugation. Perplexing her, since her kin have even met less savoury or barely intelligible, but still living sentient entities throughout their star system and outside of it. Which is truly a shame, considering how sophisticated the humans were and by under any circumstances, diplomatic procedures would have happened despite their lack lustre society and technology.
Alas, sometimes fate be given a different answer to life. If her religion were anything to be the basis of it.
With a shake of her head, she decided to ask Sir Freeman beside her. If she were locked behind bars under human claws, then she might as well learn all she can about them personally in a treasure trove of her curiosity. Because despite the amount of information she have personally studied under the pretext of xenology, which was her gateway to human studies in secret from her matriarch's ever encompassing wings, they are of course lacking in her nest. As most valuable and interesting codecs were kept secret by the royal family as per it's sanctioning throughout the Confederation. It is a entirely different experience to see the civilization she frankly didn't care much as nothing but a credit pit of a foolish plan in subjugating a lowly inconsequential species by some decisions made in the Home Council. She could have cared not, if it weren't for the fact their culture was simply...
Interesting.
"(Human, will you graced yourself with my question?)" Her typed words seems to brought Freeman back to reality as he turned his head at her for a moment, before turning it away to avoid the watchful gaze of the other humans with them. "(Su-sure Princess, what kind of?)"
At his words, mild amusement came upon her mandibles as she was wondering this whole time since their run from the Tether Ship. "(Why am I called a princess? Though my standing within society is close to the Royal Family, I am far from being one without royal blood in my heart. Is it a form of a title or expression?)" Though Ash has have a idea, it could be different for the humans way of communicating certain words in a layered way. After all, she was only perceiving from the english she practiced without any teachers to guide her. Though being called a princess without repercussions is definitely quite a ego driven moment for her, despite how small it is of a comment.
Her question seems to make him think for a moment, before he responded. Which amused her even more so. "(Well... because you act and feel like one? I don't know how this relates to the current situation we're in though...)" His response dwindled a bit at the end, he has most likely sense the people near them have accessed their private channel. Despite the disrespectful actions, Ash understands the caution, as its a holosecurity measure. However, she just doesn't like being treated like a hawkish sight to be behold from a perspective of a low level species.
In most definite angles, all species may feel the same way.
"(Amusing. A monarchy do exist in human concept, at least one of the factions have correlated themselves correctly. Fret not, it was just a mere curiosity.)" Freeman tilted his head in curiosity and confusion as he organised his thought. Eventually, he recovered from being winged crack, and decided to indulge in the conversation. "(What did you even expect the type of government we have?...)"
Ash's wings fluttered in amusement. "(When I was satiating my curiosity, I've read that humans only have some form of non-monarchial style of governance. Though not impossible to came to be, it just irked me on how could a species be run without a pre-existing point of governance and proven heritage. After all, there is a high chance of disaster being brought by voted ruler who only promises. It is not that monarchies do not have the same results of problems, but it is much more higher on you're type of governance. Makes me curious how you humans even lasted so long in the conflict with that type of leadership.)" She then looked at Freeman's reaction, whom was still reading the block of texts she typed, making her wings twitchy.
"(I apologise, it seems I have said too much. However, any thoughts to the matter?)" After a moment, Freeman finally replied with his uncertain answer. "(Uhhh... well... if being placed like that, then I can see you're point. But circumstances and history are probably the main reason why we chose democracy over monarchy. Well... mmmm... it just causes problems having a centralised power and corruption to flow I guess, that's why it ain't popular anymore.)"
"(But one of the nations on this planet have 'Imperial', in the title. Which means it is a empire, thus a monarchy. How come they do exist if such government type went our of favour?)" Upon her immediate question, Freeman then scratches the helmet warily. Looking at her, then to the other humans then back to her with a sigh.
"(I'm not exactly the best in that department, but I think it has to do with traditions and the culture around Kuiki that just stuck around for hundred of years... though...)" Nikolai then looked back on masked man in front of them warily. "(I think the Instructor is best person to asked that when it comes social politics... but I don't think it's best time to ask it either. Especially not Cecilia, I don't think she's in the best of moods right now.)"
She then eyed the other humans, especially the smaller human with a red mane named Cecilia... next to the masked human whom Freeman mention his title as Instructor. In other words a teacher, but unlike him, the second human was just called out by her given name. Perhaps it was a comrade of Freeman, though if that's the case, then they are quite a opposite pair. Cecilia was most likely her age showing off her flowing red mane without almost any protection to her body except for a mask and clothing, which Ash doubts could protect her from any malicious sickness. Cecilia in return, was eyeing her incredulously with a thin but perceivable aura of malice. This reaction perked her interest, but for now she leaves it be and crawled nearer to Freeman as their conversation continued.
"(How come you are afraid of you're kin? Are you not innocent and are not a collaborating traitor?)" Her baiting question earned her a head turn as if it was obvious. "(You can speak freely, it is not like we cannot hide our conversation in the first place. So why bother with odd whispers of deception? Speak you're thoughts Freeman.)"
It seems her calmness in the words she typed have gave Freeman enough courage. After eyeing his fellow man, he speaks out, at the same time, the bulkhead door opened up as all of them walked forward towards the deeper bowels of the craft. Ash notes how tighter and claustrophobic it is compared to even the smaller craft she embarks upon Orbos. Or more accurately, even more tight than the escape shuttle she crashed upon on the planet.
"(Yes, I know I'm innocent. However, being labelled as a traitor is no accusation I cannot just be not bothered about! You may not be in these kind of situations because of you're standing or the difference in societal rules and the like, but being called a Traitor specifically is a stain I must not have on my record! It is like making a target of myself to the everyday folks that could cost me more than I can weigh my future realistically.)" Ash's antennae twitches, as the concept seems similar to how her society labels honor and pride at the forefront in one's standing. Staining one's pride will cost respect and trust, staining one's honor will cost relationships and one's ladder in the hierarchy. In this case, being labelled as a Traitor instantly cost their whole life. Ash frankly has no idea why such arbitrary rule exist, since it implies even if it was untrue, the effect still stands. She does not know if it was because of their odd governance or a species tradition. Either way, he must protect his honor no matter the cost, which Ash finds understandable since she will be doing the same if it brokes out that she surrendered herself to the humans willingly.
Though in her case, she prefers to keep her honor in tact by keeping the truth buried with her. Of course she won't tell no soul! Not like she's going to let anybody see that. Her pride was already tampered when she asked for Freeman's claw, and now their roles are now reversed with whatever he says would affect her survival. Truly the irony, and she's going to take that to her grave.
"(Are they going to hurt you if you are?)" Freeman shakes his head. "(No, because it is illegal in our laws to hurt prisoners, that includes me of course in this trial. I'll most likely be imprisoned or be put in the front lines. Frankly, it's a fate worse than death if that's the end for me.)" He then shuddered as he turned his head away.
"(Although... it doesn't mean there isn't a possibility I won't be harm... stories and hearsay after all spoke of dark shadows of the law. Knowing you're status, I'm sure you understand what I am saying.)" A thoughtful silence came between them as they reached their destination. The craft's brig, as Freeman gulped and continued. "(Anyways, it's my societal problem thing, let's just focus the bigger problem we have now.)"
With two soldiers saluting at the entrance of the brig, Cecilia then got behind them to urge them to go forward with a rather forceful push. More accurately, towards just to Ash as Freeman only got a small push when compared to her body being shifted for someone so small. As much as she want to reprimand her for the treatment to someone of stature, she decided to swallow it in for now and look at the contraption in front of her. Where Ash doesn't particularly know what to do, though there seems to be similarities between their technologies, it is clear there are differences despite the divergence. Which is natural of course, it'll be uncanny if it were a perfect copy unless it is some primordial fantasy race capable of doing so.
Noticing Ash's hesitancy, she noticed Freeman leaning forward and put his face close to some scanner first where it scanned his helmet. She did the same thing as it began to scan her face through her helmet. After that, multiple scanners then scanned both of their bodies in different angles, inducing a effect on her bowels as the harsh light makes her sensitive eyes churn. Then, after that was finished, it was followed by a appendage scanner which she recognised because of the similarities as almost a gurgle escape her jaws. Which sullied her patience a little bit of how meticulous the act of putting them behind bars is.
There, Freeman then takes off his glove hand, finally showing the smooth and soft texture of his appendage. She finally sees one not behind some armour or protective equipment, and noting how truly long yet small their appendages are. However, Ash hesitated to take off hers, as despite knowing she can breathe the same air with some complications, letting her noble body be touched by a alien environment is something she couldn't risk herself to be preyed into. It is not just about pride, but also her health on the line.
"(Don't worry. As long as you're inside here, the likelihood of diseases or whatever you're equivalent are from infecting you is close to zero. Besides, we are in a controlled pressured area in the VTOL, so just do as they say for now.)" His response, though easing her, did make her a little more hesitant. As she knows her biometric data will be extracted directly the moment her claw touched it. However, a cooperative view is what she needed from the humans.
There, Ash release some pressure in one of her appendages and isolating it from the rest of her body. Then like a clamp being released, it falls off, showing her bright pink and white pigmented stubby appendage. She can visibly see Freeman gawk upon her appendage, most likely surprise of the colour than her anatomy. Her stubby appendage also shows five tendrils like that of a human, only stubbier and thicker. With a placement on her hand, it scanned both of them as a confirming sound escape. There, the heavy bulkhead opened and revealed...
A rather not so prison looking room.
After picking up her fallen appendage protection, Ash noted that the room that is supposedly their prison, was more of the luxurious side of comfort, in terms for commoner level income that is. It is much closer to that of a weak noble swarm master room, yet even Ash recognised the view of their prison was a psychological tactic to falsify a air of acceptance and calmness, that even a nymph can understand and behave well. Yet it seems Freeman wasn't immune to the tactic, as his tensions eased and immediately eyed a place where he can comfortably spread his legs, but at least he was still cautious of the site.
The room was about 15 by 15 claws and about 5 claws in height, which was enough of a bare minimum for her wings to stretch if she were given free time, and if there are any at all. The room was a combination of all parts of a nest, all from the resting chambers to the cleansing chambers. Though uncomfortable and tight for her standards of all needs in once place, she recognises that it saves some space and efficient for the occupiers and holders of the craft. Especially that of a planet bound craft that has no assistance in gravity technology.
However before admiring and studying upon human furniture and the like, Ash must first face the humans. Upon fully inside, the bulkhead closed behind them as everybody take their seats without saying a word. Ash and Freeman sat on the same row, with her taking over the entire furniture that could fit about four or five humans and Freeman on a much tighter but similar soft furniture. On their opposite end, was four individuals.
The first was the same female with red mane that is still giving her a menacing look, which is of course Cecilia. Making her curious on how a human with no title is present in the meeting. The second was the bigger human wearing a mask that covered his face, and whom Ash recognised was the leader of the small swarm with the most striking title of Instructor. The third individual was someone whom just joined them recently, a female human by her looks, if her long black mane and different body form where to base it. Like the bigger human, she was wearing a similar black formal suit, and most likely a military uniform. The difference were the lower part, which has one hole in which the legs can go flow freely without restrictions. And of course, lastly on the tiny table by her standards, is the talking doll that seems to be of higher standing she could not describe. Which permeates the true hierarchy amongst the humans, that surrounds the mystic on the doll that talks.
Silence first gathered between, which was only slightly disturbed by the impatient tapping on the soles of Cecilia. Whom is critically looking at her specifically and if anything, would definitely kill her without any hesitation, behest the order given. The two other humans on other claw were displaying neutral looks on their expressions. The female human especially seems to be not even interested with her as she was more focusing on the fidgeting Freeman beside her. Which is why she must take the step first, to plead her acceptance as a prisoner in order for immunity to her life be granted. That is of course, if the laws would apply under wartime conditions and if the information she reads about were just outdated.
"(Sir Freeman, speak for me on my behalf. I am certain they won't let me connect to the wider channels for effective communication. Reasonably smart, but is a problem for our current talks. Will you do so?)" She could see him visibly deflated, amusing her a little bit on how this was the same human that have tallied upon 13-14 kills of the traitors one after another. It seems there is commonality upon their distaste of bureaucratic procedures."(For Aperture's... Fine. I can do that, just tell me... what am I going to tell them?)"
After a moment, Freeman have received the words he needs to say outloud. With reluctance, he cleared his throat as all attention now landed upon him. Especially with the red mane one rising his hesitation, as Cecilia now focuses her angered look to him with the same intensity, probably even deeper than the malice she gave to Ash but on a different context. Which makes Ash wonder if it was a personal response or just irrational hatred for the view of defection to her species. Either way, it is both a good and bad card that Freeman has connections to the interrogators.
"My name is Ash'Ent, of the Grand House of Ent, of my home world, Orbos. I will be speaking my voice through Sir Freeman's jaws, for I have little in ability to speak in you're Lingua Franca. However, fret not, for I understand what you spoke and will no need of the exhaustive processes of translation. It would be delightful if you have to listen to what I say, before judgement will fall upon me."
It seems Freeman's words caught their attention, this time, of a quizzical and curious response. The female human in uniform began to fiddle with what seems to be a data pad with a stick, the larger human didn't move but is paying attention. The red mane human only responded with a raised eyebrow, a sign of human scepticism. The doll however...it didn't move, just silently listening... like it has already expected it or just uninterested of the matter at the moment.
"I am here to be turned in as a Prisoner of War, or so you humans called a enemy nation's units being caught or willingly be caught by the opposing side in you're rules of engagement. I turned myself to you're laws because it was the only way my precious life be extended. You can use me whatever you want in you're advantage in this conflict, however as long as no harm is being done to me, then the possibility of a diplomatic incident that would escalate this conflict wouldn't happen. As proof of my lineage and words, I will surrender my Family Blades and the data of my astrosuit to you're technicians to warrant my truthfulness. I hope you consider my words in you're decision on my life on threads."
After taking a breath, Freeman looked at her in a surprised look of how easy she surrendered her only few protection against his kind. It is understandable, considering she wasn't just dealing any aliens, but the aliens her kind decided to subjugate and enslave. Resentment is definitely on the claw, however it was not like she came unprepared and leave herself fully vulnerable. She just let the opposing side bite into her lure, so she can secure herself one step at a time. Of course, she knows humans are as rational as them, and especially if the doll was listening in. If Ash were to trust her instincts on the deity that is harnessing on the doll, then she was safe for now...
"A diplomatic incident?" Cecilia suddenly interrupted and for first time spoke with a sharp tongue. "Aren't we already at a point of no return after a decade? Maybe a year or two, but a decade? Does anybody really in this room believe that's even possible at this point? After billions of us already died, and just for some one person to hostage to threaten us to make the situation worse if she died?" She began as her tapping of her soles restarted. "Don't mean to disrespect, 'Grand Noble', but I am pretty sure you guys fired the shots first. Let's say, a ceasefire does happen, you expect we'll be treated like an equal party? As a lower species of primitives on you're divine intervention and judgement on us?"
If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
"Lieutenant, at ease." The leader of the swarm spoke in a deep voice, cutting her off with a subtle warning. Earning a clicking noise from the red mane human as she settled down with a huff. It seems her thoughts of resentment was correct, though she didn't thought it was so blunt as the way Cecilia presented, however it was within the margins as she typed the next words for the startled Freeman.
"Yo-you're correct on you're fears, however, do not underestimate the words and power of the Grand House of Ent. My words bring wisdom and a promise, breaking it is a act not so dissimilar of treason to the Queen. So cease you're fears, for my presence alone in the planet is enough for any operations to come indiscriminately, will come to a stop if the message is distributed." With that, silence came as the other human female continue to fiddle with a data pad. The red mane human was still unsatisfied, but quiet.
"In other words..." The deep voice nearly startled both of them as the Instructor began. "You want to use us as you're safe haven, despite knowing the knowledge of the dire danger you are in. A human word play equivalent would be a mouse, trap in a house of cats. You are correct on you're statement of our rules in engagement, however, it doesn't mean a guarantee. Despite my Lieutenant's prattle, she is correct on her assessment, we need another reason. Worthy enough that we risk humanity from not only being back shelved by bureaucracy, but also potentially harbouring the intent of an even more hard pressing invasion due to a key figure being caught in you're society that warrants a destruction of our home planet..." His voice carry power, weight, and authority. His tone that of a warning, yet so calm without a rising frequency in his voice when compared to the red mane human.
Even Freeman went silent, as Ash could sense uneasiness from him. Despite his tone lacking anger or spite, the effect made him quiver in his seat of the assessment. Which makes Ash wonders who exactly the human is, as her focus would have been on him if it weren't for the doll listening in silence to the entire conversation like a sore seeker.
"Let me ask you a question." Then, just like how she felt uneasiness from Freeman, she now herself instinctively fluttered her wings as her mandibles cackle of the same emotion that radiated from him to her body. The small statement was burdening as his calm eyes stared at her, possibly through her suit and straight at her very existence as she held her self fast and recovered as if nothing happened to prepare herself.
"If you were given the opportunity to escape. Hypothetically, a very successful escape plan that is prepared for you and we have no ever possibility of capturing you..."
. . .
"Would you do it?"
In plain view, it might seem rather presumptuous or even simply moronic of a question. As any other normal being would of course escape, however that's the point. Just like her lineage and reputation, Ash's existence and words carry a weight no claw can ever understand. Her authority stretches far and wide and that is by no means a exaggeration. Her words carry the pride and history of her Grand House, and a stain to it is akin to staining her existence...
Ash's antennae involuntarily twitches, as the human was asking her if she is also putting that authority, power, weight, and lineage to the question. A promise between two great powers, not militarily or economically, but the great power shared in a promise of acceptance and...
Honor.
It was simple, yet so deep in complexity. It was not like she fell into some trap she couldn't decline, no. This was something treading on herself as a individual, as Ash'Ent and her principles that have been culminated within her. Ash is no simpleton nor a slave to her pride, as she can use it to her advantage and toss it anytime if she knows she can get the upper hand. After all, words can only last if somebody can hear it... yet in front of her...
"N-no. I have put my name and my Grand House in the line to do such dishonorable act. If need be, then I have no choice b-but to take my precious existence as compensation. However, I am sure that would never happen as I am certain you humans would uphold the promise." Silence came in as the pressure have gone stronger from her reply through Freeman as he too, buckles under the pressure. Then as if nothing, it disappeared.
The masked human leaned back with his arms now crossed with a nod. It seems her response was fruitful in persuading him, as just like that, as Ash would only realised it later on. She just performed the first ever Religiosa-Human Diplomatic Meeting in history. Despite the approval of the Instructor, Cecilia seems not so believing and the other human continues to fiddile with the data pad without batting a droplet of attention to her. Then, a sound came upon a doll as now a different pressure came.
"[Voting Completed. 76.93% Approved the continuation of the investigation. Instructor Takamiya, please proceed as protocols indicted. Lieutenant Cecilia, Corporal Cappi, you are instructed to stand guard on the two suspects. Mr. Freeman, Xeno, both of you must comply under Instructor Takamiya's orders and questions. I have already instructed the Extraction Team to vacate the area. The necessary materials are extracted and further dismantling will be handled at a later date. We are now departing back to base and will arrive in T-30m, that is all.]"
Silence came back to view as that otherworldly pressure dissipated, this time, the air around them was bearable. Aside from Cecilia begrudgingly taking her post, the tension was now more so they are strangers than anything else. Like the doll has spoken, the craft rocked as it began moved from it's place and as if on cue, what Ash thought were walls were actually either windows or just monitors as it now displays the forest and it's clouded, grey sky behind them. In which there she can see other similar looking human craft in the distance going in the same direction as them. "(This... got really big than I imagined...)"
Ash hears Freeman whisper to himself, and indeed he was correct. The unintended scenario of her willing surrender to human claws that started from a unexpected insurrection have lead up to the mess she is now in. There, it dawned on both of them that there is no turning back, even Ash who already steeled herself have never been in scenario she is in. She may be trained upon it, but the simple fact of being caught by any power whatsoever wasn't in the midst, and yet it happened. "(Indeed Freeman, it seems it has become the focus. I wonder how you're people are going to feel about the Grand Noble of Ent being caught.)"
Freeman chuckled to himself nervously. "(Heck if I know, it was the first time I know about the Grand Noble stuff. How much more the rest.)" Freeman has a point, even in information she secretly harboured from her family's influence, it was the same for her on the culture of the humans. Though, perspective may be different considering the circumstances as what both sides have on the respective species' data are surface level and arbitrary at best. However, it was enough of a foundation to stage that curiosity.
"The bureaucrats have now spoken their decision. Now, let us ease ourselves for the formal agreement of capture and temporary asylum. However, before the papers will be signed, protocol states simple question amd answer before the proper location will be given. Do you agree to this course?"
The sudden voice of the Instructor caught them once more, and with a nod from Ash, the data pad that the other female human was fiddling then was handed over the Instructor. After doing something to it, she was handed the pad and a... metal stick? Of course it wasn't, as it is akin to a guidance cursor for human appendages. Surprisingly, she can hold it, though she doubts she can so any multitasking with it with her basic understanding of it, with also the addition of the difference of anatomy.
After some nimbs of silence as Ash reads the paper meticulously, she also observed her surroundings once more. As usual, Cecilia was wary, with the only difference is how she kept on making subtle expressions of frustration and defeat while giving Freeman quick glances. The Instructor is observing her with neutral silence, and deep inside she knows he is having conversations with other humans inside the mask through their own private channel like she was doing with Freeman. The third human... well... she's stiff as a bark of wood, unnaturally so considering how much action she brings on the data pad Ash is currently holding. She resemble the Household Guards of her nest, same stiffness and impeccable concentration.
Freeman on the other claw... he is still nervous, as despite words being given to her, there were none for him. Which was rather disrespectful, considering it was his efforts that saved her existence at a timely matter. However, it wasn't in her best interest to intervene for now as she finally finished reading it and prepared to sign it. "(Freeman, will you care to help me sign this?)"
His reaction seems to always amused her as he looked at her in a baffled manner, at least her interpretation to his movements.
Silently, he then stood up and gone near her so he can also see the contents, where Ash could feel his confusion since nothing seems to be off put. Nonetheless, he did as he was told and used a made up signage, which was far off from her seal, but will suffice for now. "(Was it really fine to do that? I am no diplomat, but I feel like I stepped into a landmine.)"
Ash huffed, and replied. "(Worry not, we too have followers who specialises in signage for that matter. As far as I can tell with our laws, there was nothing wrong with it. I am certain there will be similarities as well to human diplomatic laws for that matter.)"
Freeman only replied with wary acceptance, as Ash's wings fluttered as she now focuses on the Instructor whom was observing them with neutral silence. However, this time it wasn't all neutral as there was a hint of... interest. Making her confused on what exactly was interesting.
"Excellent. As of now, you're under human law and will be put iSnto confinement and be treated as a temporary asylum seeker. Now, let us proceed to the Q&A." For a quick moment, he looked at Freeman before focusing his attention back to her. Something was brewing that she didn't picked up upon, and it's making her a little cautious despite her victory as she typed words to Freeman to prepare her response.
"What is you're name?"
'Oh...? It really was just a simple question and answer. Perhaps I was just overthinking... perhaps...'
"Ash'Ent."
"How old are you?"
"I am 22 cycles old."
"What is you're gender?"
"I am a female Religiosa."
"What planet are you from?"
"I am from planet Orbos."
"Who are your mother and father?"
"They are Matriarch Mol'Ent of the North and Ent Fleet Admiral Al'Ent."
"Do you have any siblings?"
"Yes, I do."
"Are you the eldest of you're siblings?"
"I am."
'The questions are rather... too simple... with information even crossed with the words I have already proclaim... is it really that simple?'
"Why were you approaching here on Venture?"
'Ah. I see, it was just the pretence for the real simple questions...'
"I came here with my betrothed mate for sightseeing."
'Freeman, is it really that surprising of the likes of my existence being betrothed?'
"Who is you're mate?"
"He is the 68th Prince, Po'Arch."
"How did you crashed on Venture?"
'One small truth at a time...'
"There was a mutiny of our ranks after a failed human ambush landed upon us."
"Why was there a mutiny?"
"Because we called off the attack on the ambush, which punctured their pride."
"Were you the only one alive?"
"..."
At that moment, there was a shared thought between Ash and Freeman, as a foreboding warning crept up to their back of the scene that now anchored upon their minds. The reasons may be different, but it was enough of a reason for their next course of action.
"Yes. I was the only one who miraculously survived."
"Apologies. Here is my last question before our next venue in due date. What would the prince do, now that you are missing or assumed dead?"
"... protocol states the prince to return to the Core World upon emergencies as this. So no, the likelihood of events led by him would be none."
Silence came upon them as Freeman glanced at her with unreadable action for her to pick up. The Instructor nodded as he stood up from his seat and grabbed the doll with two hands as he made a bow towards them. "Thank you for your cooperation, we will be seeing soon on a short notice. As for now, rest. Freeman-kun, since you are still a suspect, you will be staying with Miss Ent for the time being as both her interpreter and temporarily assigned guide to human customs."
Ash was wondering when Freeman would be finally brought into light, as it turns out his stay and company will be extended much more than she thought. Though she expected they'll meet and be paired with Freeman because of the connection between them, she didn't thought it will be done so soon and instant. Case and point, is the reaction of Freeman who is thinking the same thought as her with his reasonable outbursts. Cecilia on other claw, has a stronger and blunt response.
"WHAT?! He is clearly not collaborating with the xeno, right?! How come he is still treated as a criminal and be assigned as some sort of guardian!?" She asked in a fury as the other female human eyed her silently.
"Lieutenant, procedures are being made as a precaution for both health and protocols. They need to be quarantined, while also be questioned. It is not about criminality, but procedures that needs to be safely done."
"You left my friend in a tank with a xenocidal xeno! If you were given the order to do so, then at least put him in the other cell!"
"It is orders by the SAI and the rest, Lieutenant. It was their approval, not my judgement."
"Bu-
"[Lieutenant Cecilia, I hope you respect the order given by the Body. Know that we do not bring harm to Student Nikolai Freeman, and are only following protocol. The POW has already sign the terms, and such, harm towards Mr. Freeman will not be tolerated or towards any other human under Article 13, Section C. Please, procede on you're post, time is haste.]"
It was as if the room went silent as the divine and fearful presence of the doll called, 'SAI', it's female voice echoed and permeates towards anybody who listened her. Cecilia scrunched her appendages together tightly, as her eyes narrowed towards the Instructor. Thankfully, she relented, and the dangerous around her disappeared. "I am sorry for stepping over my bounds Instructor, SAI Venture, I will be reflecting on my actions."
She bowed as her red mane fell from her shoulders and to her front. The Instructor only raised a hand, as Cecilia went back to her posture. Giving Freeman one last longing and apologetic look before she and the other female human went out first. It seems Freeman too, has a reaction, as his appendages also clenched in response to her outcry.
"Apologies for my Lieutenant, she often is the rowdy type. However, she is of a good heart in her concerns." Finally, the Instructor then gone towards Freeman, putting a hand over his shoulder. Making him flinch, in which Ash could also see the height discrepancy between them, as his hand alone were almost the size of his head.
"Young man. As disappointed I am of you're actions, I will applaud of you're bravery and quick thinking, as you brought someone of importance to us. However, it doesn't mean you will be left unpunished, hence the task upon you of you're responsibility of Miss Ent." He then let go of his shoulder and pointed at his chest. "Don't give up Freeman-Shonen, take this a lesson. I know you are capable of this task."
With that he backs away, leaving both of them alone as the bulkhead finally shut itself. Sealing both of them together from the outside world like how they first met on the shuttle just some time ago in the same day. Silence came upon the two of them as the only sounds that can be heard are the climate control system activating and the almost imperceptible vibrations of the craft.
As if recognising they are now safe, Ash bowed slightly, putting her stubby hands together of a silent prayer and apologise to the dead followers whom will be not remembered on their deaths of the human effort. On the other hand, Freeman dropped to the sofa and leaned on it heavily as a loud sigh of relief escaped from his lips. The two of them didn't bother to ask what the other was doing as they focused themselves on recovering from the aftermath of the first of many interrogations that would soon come.
Then after awhile, the neutral synthetic voice boomed.
"[Atmospheric levels adjusted for cohabitation. By product chemicals sorted and ionized. Life support system activated, breathing pressurised atmosphere is now recommended. Have a nice day.]"
Compared to the neutral female voice Ash hears, this seems more akin to the usual she felt upon hearing synthetics, when compared to that doll called SAI. However aside from that fact, it seems it was now safe to breathe without the suit tangling upon her limbs. And it seems Freeman was the same, as he immediately takes off his suit's helmet and for the first time, she has seen the human she has first met on what he looks like.
Compared to Cecilia's red mane, he has black like the other female human, but only shorter. Compared to the blue eyes of both females, he was that of a natural brown. If it were Religiosa beauty standards, and if she were disregard Religiosa specific traits and only focus on the ones that could relate to the human. Then she could say he is up on the chain, but with the added other standards, then he is a naked abomination.
Then again, he was alien to her. So it makes sense.
Following his example, Ash then activated the suit as one by one, all protective attachments depressurized and dropped to the floor, revealing the striking pink and white pastel colours of her body. First were her legs, follwed her claws, then her tail, and finally her torso. Where it then unzipped itself and proceeded to loosen. Finally, there she lifts her helmet off, revealing by Religiosa beauty standards, the pinnacle of the top. White and pink mixed in patterns, with her long white and pink frame showing off her healthy grooming. She stretched her legs, then her beautifully patterned wings. Followed by antennae twiching. As she finally got the chance to be out of the cramped suit.
Though the gravity was definitely a issue, however if Ash doesn't exhaust herself too much, then it won't be a problem. However, that means no running and flying, evidence of that was the chase.
She then looked at a nearby mirror to admire and check upon her looks, where it revealed she tired and a bit dirty, was still no ordinary Religiosa could replicate.
Thud!
Ash heard plastic fall, and looked back to see Freeman with the most shocked and entranced look, though it was more disbelief than entranced. Which boosted her ego, as it seems despite the anatomic difference of beauty standards, it seems the humans agreed, at least to Freeman, that she's a beauty he has never seen before. Making her wings twtich and her hearing receptors wiggle in amusement.
"(Do you believe me now, Freeman?)" She typed with gusto on the halokeys as he doesn't need the helmet to know what she meant as he just nodded very fast to her question. Making her antennae twitched even more.
Now all that's left were the refreshments... in which Ash has no idea where they were.
