RK47
collides like two planets pulled by gravity
For the Brotherhood
Music: Morrowind
The Supervisor in Power Armor takes notice of my presence and greets me warmly.
So, are you in charge around here?
No, we are directed by the council of elders. Maxson, the High Elder, would be the person in charge. If you need to speak with him, you'll find him on the fourth floor.
So what do you?
I am the Senior Paladin, Rhombus' right-hand man. We're in charge of the Paladins and Knights. Right now I'm supervising training exercises. We're getting ready...for anything.
You're getting ready for what?
There are rumors of a large force moving around in the mountains and desert. With the missing caravans and these rumors, we're just playing it safe.
How can I get some weapons and equipment?
In a hurry, are we? As an Initiate, you are entitled to a few things. I'll put in a clearance for combat armor and three orders for ammunition, bullets of your choice. Just see Michael in the next room for the supplies.
Thanks, what about some high-tech weapons?
Hmm, I don't know. You may have proven ourself to be an initiate but that doesn't mean we start handing over weapons to someone that might not be qualified, especially to an outsider, no offense.
I really need some better firepower.
You've built quite a reputation for yourself. The people I've checked with hold you in high regard. I don't think you need any help, you seem quite capable. However, if you help me with a little problem, I might be able to reward you with something.
Sure. What's the problem?
I sent one of our Initiates out to the Hub a short while back and we haven't heard back from him. If you can find out what happened to him I'd be very grateful.
I'll check it out.
Thank you. I'll remember this and when I've seen that you've gained enough experience I might be able to give you something special from our order.
I return to Michael, the storekeeper.
I have something to pick up.
Okay, let me see...Ah, yes. You do have authorization to check something out. A good defense is the best offense. Or was it the other way around? Well, it doesn't matter. Here's your armor. Be sure to take care of it. I can't give out more than one set. Was there another item you needed?
No, that's it. Thanks.
The Brotherhood-issued Combat Armor is similar, yet superior. It features a silver emblem emblazoned on its torso.
Time to head down to High Elder Maxson.
The Sister in Power Armor stops me before I could approach Maxson.
And who are you?
The name is Mathia. I am officially Maxson's assistant, but I am also here to make sure no one messes with the old man.
Old man? That sounds a bit disrespectful.
No, no, not at all. He's a good guy. Besides, I wouldn't bad mouth him while he is standing next to me.
So, what is it that you do for Maxson as his assistant?
I take care of all the paper work. He could not do paper work to save his life. Also, if he clears a Weapons Upgrade for one of the Brothers, I process the order.
Ok, thanks for the information.
I turn towards the High Elder, he smiles as I approach to introduce myself.
Maybe you can tell me? Everyone here seems to be on edge. It's like you are getting ready to go to war, but no one knows with who.
Well, the Merchants from the Hub told us a bunch of caravans disappeared on their way up north. I think there's an army in the mountains, but the Elders, well, they don't want to act until they're sure.
Oh, that. I have found proof that it is this army which is causing that disappearance of the caravans. It is an army of Super Mutants. You have good reason to be worried. They look very formidable.
Then you understand the problem. To survive, we need someone who knows the outside. Like you.
But I'm just barely months after leaving my own Vault!
You survived the Glow where others could not. And if the reports are accurate, you took down a Deathclaw with just a spiked fist. Crime levels dropped wherever you visit. You're qualified. The Brotherhood will provide you with the resources you may need in this endeavour.
Very well. I'll go scout out the area to the north and then report what I find.
He smiles and pats my shoulder in appreciation.
Good. Anything else you need to ask?
High Elder, would it be possible for me to get a hold of some better weapons?
Speak to my assistant, Mathia, about that. The Brotherhood provides.
Thank you.
I turn towards Mathia who nods in acknowledgement, holding a communication pad ready.
The Power Fist.
Excellent choice, Initiate. One moment while I requisition one off the storage for you...
She returns later with the Power Fist unit. It fits snugly on my right arm.
Remember to keep it supplied with small energy cells, without it, it's nothing but dead weight.
Understood.
I should prepare myself before embarking on the mission. The Power Fist will enhance my offensive capability, but I still want the T-51b. I decide to visit the other levels.
The third level contains a massive network of research lab of some sort.
I look around curiously, before one of the research assistants greets me.
Could you direct me to the library?
This *IS* the library. Here we keep records of all technical data on weaponry and technology, and, of course, the history of the Brotherhood.
No books?
She shakes her head.
We have many holo-disks here in the library. They are divided between history, technology, and weapon design.
Ah, silly me. Would you mind if I take a look on your technology?
These are things that only Scribes and Paladins have access to. Vree may be able to help you.
is there any holo-disks that I can have access to?
Our history is available to everyone. So that they may learn of our great history. Not that any one ever looks at them.
I would like to see it.
Well, it's good to see someone interested in our great history. Unlike others around here. Here you go. This is a disk of some of our earliest writings.
Thank you, Sister. May I know who you are and what is it that you do here?
Of course, I am Sophia, Vree's assistant.
What is it you do as Vree's assistant?
My area of specialty is the Brotherhood's history. It seems that some people around here have forgotten the importance of our history.
What could be more important than history?
Vree seems to think that the research of new weaponry and the information gathered from Mutant autopsies is more important than our history. She has forgotten that our history is a vital part of our lives. It has gotten so bad that many of the new initiates don't even know who Roger Maxson is or what exactly he did for us.
I agree that history is important, but new technology and better weapons is what I need now to face the Wasteland...
I understand, you need to speak with Vree about things of that nature.
Do not worry, Sister. This Initiate will know of the Brotherhood's history.
I upload the holo-disk data into my Pip-Boy reader. A beep later, and the screen comes alive.
Those must be the poor souls that have died in the Glow. Rest in Peace, Brothers. Your deaths have been chronicled.
I turn towards the Master Scribe, Vree, who seems to be deep in her studies.
I know you're the Master Scribe, but what does that mean?
I record the knowledge of our ancestors for future generations.
Interesting, that means you know a lot of stuff.
Yes, I guess you could say I know, 'stuff.' What can I help you with?
I'd like to know more about the weapons we make here.
Speak to the knights. Ask them to show you one of the latest laser pistols I designed.
I've got another question.
Go ahead.
Brother Maxson tasked me with hunting down the source of mutation. In your opinion, what is causing all the mutations?
Between the nuclear and biogenetic weapons used in the War, it's surprising we don't have more mutations. However, if we can hold out, everything will be okay.
Why do you say that?
All the mutants I've studied have been sterile - they can't breed with another creature.
I know ghouls can't possibly do that , but that includes those giant mutants as well?
Yes. If we could clean up the mutation sources, we should be able to simply outlive the mutants.
Interesting theory. Any proof?
Here, take this holo-disc, it's got copies of my autopsies on mutant corpses. It clearly shows that no mutant could possibly reproduce successfully.
That's...interesting. Thank you, Master Scribe.
I plug in the holo-disc and read.
Wait..this is interesting. Forced Evolutionary Virus II: Severe overdose. Where have I heard that word before? Oh, yeah! The Glow! I load up the holo-discs I've recovered from the Glow into my Pip-Boy.
Looks like it...next one is more interesting...
Mariposa Military Base. That's where they are probably creating these soldiers.
Vree, I notice you have a lot of computers here, do you have a terminal I could use to learn more about computer usage?
Of course, follow me.
I spend some time learning the basics and advanced computing commands. It was very informative. More so than the basic Vault course I had back home.
Next , I decide to check out the weapons lab.
Who are you and what do you do here?
I'm Paul, head of the Energy Weapons development.
What kind of energy weapons?
Laser, Plasma..you name it. I've built it..or at least re-built it.
I've already got myself a plasma pistol and rifle...where can I get a Power Armor?
Kyle's in charge of that, speak to him on the other counter.
Another technician stands next to a counter full of disassembled power armor. He looks frustrated as he examines the Power Armor parts.
Hi.
What?
Nothing. It's just that no one has ever made it back from the Ancient Order.
It was difficult, but not impossible.
To hear Maxson's stories, you'd think it was the ninth level of hell.
Maxson? General Maxson?
Not General Maxson, his grandfather, Roger Maxson. I heard you brought back a disk that told what happened to the guys who rebelled against him and went down there to recover the lost technology.
Yeah, I guess I did. I'm Brian, who're you?
The moniker's Kyle. I've never met a myth before.
So, what do you do here?
I fix stuff, run maintenance checks, that sort of crap.
Sounds like my kind of thing. But what kind of stuff are you fixing?
Currently, a power armor. And other times, anything else that needs fixin'.
How can I get my hands on some power armor?
I'd give ya this power armor right here, but it's missing its Systolic Motivator. It's useless without it.
Where could someone get one of those?
Well, they've got more than enough up in the supply room, but Michael and his damn forms say that this particular suit isn't up to specs. Damn bureaucrats.
So if I brought you a Systolic Motivator, would you fix it up for me?
Whoa, wait a minute there, fella, that would take a good coupla hours. I'd loan you a manual and my tools, but you'd hafta repair it yoursel.f
Just my kind of thing. I'll be back.
I left Kyle and explore other parts of the level, living quarters and all.
And a medical bay.
Do you do operations?
But of course, but it's very costly and time consuming.
Details?
I can help make you stronger, more perceptive, endurance, maybe accelerate your learning process, and increase your dexterity. Which would you like more information on? I can only do each operation once.
What can you do to improve my strength?
That's easy to do, but there's a long recovery time. It only costs 2000 caps, but takes 3 weeks to heal.
Do it. I'm going to need every strength I've got to beat the mutants.
Okay, here goes nothing...Just kidding. we can start right away.
I take off my clothes and let her start the procedure. I slip away as she starts the gas flow.
Three weeks later...
So how are you feeling?
I can feel the difference already.
You're quite a talkative person in your sleep, you're free to go!
No, I'm not done yet. How about my brain. Can you do something to my brain?
It's the most complex and dangerous! It'll take three weeks and cost 6000 caps.
Do it.
Moments later...
Now where's the brain again? What's this thing supposed to do?
Panicking, I try to fight the chems, but it's a losing battle.
Three weeks later...
Well, it looks like I got it all back in and everything's running great.
I feel....it's as if the pathways of my thoughts have direct links to everywhere in my head. I can even remember the first man I killed in the wasteland.
Take it easy, Brian.
I'm running low on caps, doc. But fix up my endurance.
That one's not that difficult. Takes a week and cost 3000 caps.
OK.
I hope you have a heart...
She winks as I fall under the gas.
One week later...
Breathing's good...mind's clear...I feel much stronger. I'll return when I have enough caps for the rest of the operation, doc.
Good luck in your mission, Brian.
I return to Michael, the storekeeper.
Hi, Mike. I'm looking for a Systolic Motivator.
Do you have the proper authorization?
Yes. I was sent here to get a Systolic Motivator.
Let me look.
He checks his terminal for a moment. Then shakes his head.
I'm sorry, Brian. I don't see a request for a Systolic Motivator. You'll need to get a proper one before I release it.
Time to pull a fast one, he looks unsure.
You don't? Ordinance was suppose to send one down yesterday yesterday. Look, can you help me out? If I don't get this part, it's gonna be my ass. I'm sure the form will be here later today.
He crosses his arm on his chest before giving an understanding nod. He enters the storage room and returns with a small chip.
OK. Here you go. Just don't tell anyone that I gave this to you. Rhombus would have my head if he knew I had given the parts out without proper authorization.
Thank you, Michael.
I return to Kyle's workshop.
Yes. Here it is.
Great! Here, just let me install this into the unit.
Moments pass as he slot the chip in, making sure it's properly connected and closes the panel shut. He gives the thumbs up.
OK, you're all set to go. Here, take this manual. If you have any kind of aptitude with repairing things, you should have no problem. Good luck.
Stand back and watch, Brother.
I thumbed through the pages, burning every single technical terms into my mind.
Carefully, I reassemble the Power Armor, making sure every single nut and bolts are connected and not a single part is left behind on the counter when I finish. Kyle observes and nod as he confirms the installation of each parts before I proceed.
Hours later...
Hot damn, Brian. Those are mighty fine pair of arms you got there. Superb concentration, too! Go on, man! Put it on!
I bend over to pick up the armor...and felt the strain on my back as I do so.
It's...too...heavy.
Take off your combat armor, Brian. This thing's made of solid steel, not brahmin's hide!
OK, here goes...
Ugh...I think..I need to drop off another stuff from my backpack.
You got another set of combat armor in your pack? What for? Diaper change?
Aww, shut up.
Hnnnnghhhhhhh.
Well, I'm outta ideas.
Fuck, I got this.
Shit, outside chems?!
Better than nothing...
With great difficulty, I don the armor. Kyle helping me put the parts...and inspecting the joints and each corner for any sign of damage before powering it on. I put on the helmet...it was all dark inside..my voice is muffled.
How is it?
Great, I'm powering it up.
A soft whrrr was heard as the reactor on the suit comes to life. I could feel the strength coursing through me. I swung a few strikes, feeling no weight at all. All power, no limit.
I've got the power.
Music: Morrowind
The Supervisor in Power Armor takes notice of my presence and greets me warmly.
I return to Michael, the storekeeper.
The Brotherhood-issued Combat Armor is similar, yet superior. It features a silver emblem emblazoned on its torso.
Time to head down to High Elder Maxson.
The Sister in Power Armor stops me before I could approach Maxson.
I turn towards the High Elder, he smiles as I approach to introduce myself.
He smiles and pats my shoulder in appreciation.
I turn towards Mathia who nods in acknowledgement, holding a communication pad ready.
She returns later with the Power Fist unit. It fits snugly on my right arm.
I should prepare myself before embarking on the mission. The Power Fist will enhance my offensive capability, but I still want the T-51b. I decide to visit the other levels.
The third level contains a massive network of research lab of some sort.
I look around curiously, before one of the research assistants greets me.
She shakes her head.
I upload the holo-disk data into my Pip-Boy reader. A beep later, and the screen comes alive.
Those must be the poor souls that have died in the Glow. Rest in Peace, Brothers. Your deaths have been chronicled.
I turn towards the Master Scribe, Vree, who seems to be deep in her studies.
I plug in the holo-disc and read.
Wait..this is interesting. Forced Evolutionary Virus II: Severe overdose. Where have I heard that word before? Oh, yeah! The Glow! I load up the holo-discs I've recovered from the Glow into my Pip-Boy.
Looks like it...next one is more interesting...
Mariposa Military Base. That's where they are probably creating these soldiers.
I spend some time learning the basics and advanced computing commands. It was very informative. More so than the basic Vault course I had back home.
Next , I decide to check out the weapons lab.
Another technician stands next to a counter full of disassembled power armor. He looks frustrated as he examines the Power Armor parts.
I left Kyle and explore other parts of the level, living quarters and all.
And a medical bay.
I take off my clothes and let her start the procedure. I slip away as she starts the gas flow.
Three weeks later...
Moments later...
Panicking, I try to fight the chems, but it's a losing battle.
Three weeks later...
She winks as I fall under the gas.
One week later...
I return to Michael, the storekeeper.
He checks his terminal for a moment. Then shakes his head.
Time to pull a fast one, he looks unsure.
He crosses his arm on his chest before giving an understanding nod. He enters the storage room and returns with a small chip.
I return to Kyle's workshop.
Moments pass as he slot the chip in, making sure it's properly connected and closes the panel shut. He gives the thumbs up.
I thumbed through the pages, burning every single technical terms into my mind.
Carefully, I reassemble the Power Armor, making sure every single nut and bolts are connected and not a single part is left behind on the counter when I finish. Kyle observes and nod as he confirms the installation of each parts before I proceed.
Hours later...
I bend over to pick up the armor...and felt the strain on my back as I do so.
With great difficulty, I don the armor. Kyle helping me put the parts...and inspecting the joints and each corner for any sign of damage before powering it on. I put on the helmet...it was all dark inside..my voice is muffled.
A soft whrrr was heard as the reactor on the suit comes to life. I could feel the strength coursing through me. I swung a few strikes, feeling no weight at all. All power, no limit.
I've got the power.