Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Da..?”

I feel a tiny face press into the arm of my jumpsuit.

I’m brought back to the present moment in an instant, my eyes snapping open. In the warm, humid, pollen-laden air of one of the Zariman’s arboretums, I must’ve started to doze off. Work had felt longer than usual today, and I hadn’t been sleeping well. It would seem staying awake long enough to see the Jump would be more of a challenge than I expected.

“Don’t worry, kiddo. It’ll be over in a flash, I promise.” I gently murmur, stroking my son’s golden hair. He’s always been a nervous kid- something I partially blame on myself. In comparison to his mother, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to call me timid. My wife was a go-getter, confident and sure in herself- but with how much her work called her away, I can’t help but wonder if my personality rubbed off on him a little bit.

My son latches on to me, staring out the big bay window before us as if the vacuum of space is some kind of monster. I try not to show it, but do I share his anxiety, somewhat- perhaps not fear of the cosmos, exactly, but-

Tau.

A truly untouched frontier, the place where we’re about to travel. A whole system away…
Of course, it’s not that I’m unsure in my skills as a mechanist- I take pride in my work, and despite Void Travel being a newer development, I’m confident things will go smoothly.

I look down at my son once more.

No, it’s him I’m worried about. He’s been incredibly brave so far. The choice to take him with me to Tau was a hard one- a decision his mother and I spent months discussing. Maria just couldn’t justify leaving her job, and constantly moving across the system doing fieldwork wasn’t the stable life we wanted for him. When we heard that children would be allowed to accompany their parents working on the Zariman project, it felt like our prayer was answered.

“Y’know, kid-” I break the silence, “If Mom were here right now, she’d be real proud of you. You know that, right?”

“Mmm..” He seems more interested in clinging to me than in talking. I don’t blame him. Everyone’s been nervous and excited for Jump Day.

“I miss mum.”

I sigh. The ache that’s been building in my chest begins to swell into an emotion. He’s not the only one. The opportunity to have a stable job in a new colony, but having to leave behind my wife of twenty years was not something I considered lightly. Ultimately, though, I think we made the right choice. Our job as parents was to give Rufus a good life- and Tau was the best option for that- even if it meant breaking our hearts.

“I miss her too, bud.” I push my sombre tone aside, laughing a little bit and putting on a fake smile, “Maybe she’ll come visit us in Tau someday! There’s bound to be something to bioengineer there.”

I wrap my arm around his tiny body, “You know how much your Mom loves you, and there’s nothing that would make her happier than be near you and do her job. You’ll see her again, someday.”

He doesn’t need to know about my sorrows. Void knows he’s already dealing with his own. His shyness and anxiety have done nothing but worsen since we boarded the Zariman. I’d hoped he’d make some friends here- at the very least so he wouldn’t be so lonely once we got to Tau- but he keeps to himself for the most part. I’d come home from a shift and find him curled up in bed, reading a story to his floofs, or drawing.

He doesn’t talk about his feelings much- and that makes it hard to connect with him. But, I do try, at the very least. I check in with him when I can. Try to wordlessly tell him how much he’s loved as he sits in my lap, listening to me read technical manuals like bedtime stories to lull him to sleep.

I pause, an idea crossing my mind. A way to, perhaps, ease some of his fears.

“Hey, we still have a bit before the jump. Why don’t we go grab Kevvi? I bet she’d love to watch it with us.”

Rufus perks up a bit at the name of his beloved kavat toy, loosening his grip on my arm and sitting up. She was his favourite- a hand-made gift from my parents from when he was born. Although the kavat floof’s fabric was coarse and worn, and one of her eyes had fallen off and been sewn back on more times than I could count, it was, by far, his most prized possession. Perhaps even akin to a talisman of stability- a constant throughout his life.

I flash as big of a smile as I can muster. “I’ll even carry you on my shoulders. It’s a bit of a walk to our dormizone from here, huh? Don’t want to tire you out just yet- it’d be a shame to sleep through this once-in-a-lifetime experience. One day, you’ll want to tell your kids about the time you travelled from Sol to Tau.”

He nods gently, and I stand up from the bench we were sitting on, crouching so he can comfortably climb onto my back. As I feel him rest his hands on my head and I grab his legs to stabilise him, I feel part of my worry wash away. No matter what Tau threw at us, we’d face together- father and son. Not just because of my obligation to him as his parent- but to honour what his mother wanted for him as well.

As I stand, and start briskly walking through the stately greenery, I feel a parental oath swell in my heart. The one I took the day my son was born- and that I renewed the day we left Maria behind.

I will give my son the life he deserves- a glorious, free life in Tau- and I will do everything in my power to ensure that.

Even if it kills me.

Chapter Text

My head feels strange as my senses begin to come online again. I feel.. heavy, and sluggish. I'm absolutely low on energy, and given the aching sensations, I'd say that I'm hurt too. To what degree? I can't fully tell.

I try to recall what happened; The last thing I remembered before the half-aware darkness. I'd been heading for Venus' pockmarked surface. I'd heard that the Corpus there had made some breakthroughs on reverse-engineering Void Gates. It's not like I had anything else to do, so I stowed away on a ship. Next thing I know, I sense another of my kind- no, not another- many others-

I snap out of my reminiscing, dread filling my mind. My optical systems finish coming online, flickering briefly, an orange haze over my vision.

This isn't Venus. This isn't even a ship- although the dull aluminium-grey surfaces and serif typeface rushing by on blue holo-screens are a clear indicator that I'm still on Corpus territory.

I'm... trapped? Pinned to a heavy metal frame- my arms, legs, and neck held back not just by bands of steel, but by burning arcs of energy, as orange as the sky of this planet. A gas giant. 

...This is Jupiter.

A man stands in the distance- no more than twenty metres from me. He's dressed in tacky, shiny clothes. The blue, rectangular plates that cover his upper body give his hunched appearance a stiff quality- not helped by the strange mechanisms on his head and neck. He's a Corpus Official- a relatively high-ranking one at that, too.

I try to throw my weight against the metal frame encapsulating me with little avail. The energy tethers that keep me from moving my body only bite deeper into my metal flesh. I feel tension in my chest, like a wordless growl. I'm nothing more than a chained kubrodon, watching as the shining one paces to and fro. He waves his hands like an inept Orokin orator- all bark, no bite. To the screens encircling us, he bows and cowers. Even with the permanent sneer on his face, I can tell he's trying to suck up to the other official-looking men on the screen. In the dying orange light of the gas planet, I see the spark of cunning in his eyes. He knows what he's doing. 

“... A rarity for you, gentlemen-”

If I could frown disapprovingly, I would. The bits of his voice that I could make out were about as pleasant as his clothes- gaudy, self-absorbed, and with a strange quality. Perhaps it was the amount of helium he'd breathed in from the gas giant's atmosphere that gave his sly words their air of mania. Had I not spent the past few days incapacitated before waking up in this restraining frame, I might find the man slightly amusing. 

I groan internally, as I try yet again to tear my arm free. No luck. I can barely move my body as is. If I couldn't clearly see the crackling shackles holding me in place, I'd perhaps think there was a giant magnet shoved in my back.

I feel a breath get stuck in my chest as I watch the shining one turn around, peering at me with a look that I struggle to pinpoint the intention of. His hunched posture, tense shoulders, his simultaneously tired and cunning eyes- which I can only assume have some kind of malicious intent behind them. It's as he approaches where I'm held, skittering much like the kuakas he resembles, I notice the metal band clutched in his gloved fist.

“Of course, dear investors-” It's a little hard to not hear him as he reaches for my neck, the collar opened and at the ready, “One must be willing to make sacrifices in the name of Profit- and progress. Such a prized catch, surely you understand the starting price point, no?”

He chuckles obnoxiously as he snaps the collar onto me. I feel tiny prongs bite into my flesh. “Thirteen million platinum for this powerful artefact- and a stake in the Zanuka Project? A steal, in the long run. Rest assured, there will be significant returns-”

Well. This is it.

There's a pit of dread in my stomach, an all-consuming fear of oblivion. I've come to three conclusions. Either I am to be dissected like an animal, killed and harvested, or be forced into servitude for a new master- as if the Orokin weren't bad enough. Regardless of the outcome, my future seemed bleak at best.

Despite this, I can't help but inwardly laugh- I'd outwitted the Golden Ones for centuries, and retained my freedom for so long afterwards. I'd adapted to whatever tried to kill me- not unlike the Sentient enemy. My body needed neither food nor water- but there were threats I had to fend off. Ammo, information, weapons- these were my bread and butter. 

So I changed.

I became a thief, a rogue. And I was good at it. I was faster than anything they could throw at me. If I got cornered, I could scald or freeze them. Those once considered lesser servants of the Gilded Empire were my prey, their stockholds bared for me to plunder.

I see numbers go up on the screens before me as bidding begins. I couldn't care less about my worth. 

The shining one turns from his data, stalking up to me once more. He reaches out, stroking my visor. I try to pull back, but can't. His gloved touch repulses me, leaving a trail of nauseating tingles in its wake.

“Easy now, Tenno-” he croons, “There's no need to struggle. You cannot fight progress. You should take pride in knowing you'll soon a part of something much bigger than yourself, yes?”

I do not have a good feeling about this. He turns his back to me, gesturing to the gaseous expanse before us. Two quadrupedal black and teal robots flank him, pacing alongside the corpus like loyal hounds.

”The past will never return- you must embrace the future to survive, yes, yes-“ he trails off, mumbling to himself, before turning on his heel, looking back at where I hang, helplessly.

”You should be thanking me. It's not very often I find a specimen in as good condition as you. You'll make a fine Hunter, Tenno. Aiding with your evolution is the least I can do-“

He casts a glance to the side, at a screen next to a control panel, studying the analytics for a moment.

”I must admit, you surprise me. Your Lotus must not like you very much- by now, I'd have at least expected a strongly-worded message. Things are only ever this silent if I find you still on ice. You must've done something pretty horrible to have her not send a rescue squad-“

Lotus? I find myself pausing, my fear replaced with confusion for a mere moment. For as long as I can remember, I've wandered the Sol system alone. Why on earth would this Lotus care enough about me in particular to want to save me?

I'm brought back to reality as the shining one presses a button on the control panel, his eyes fixed on me as a metal archway rises from the floor.

”Ah, no matter. Profit must be smiling upon us both today.”

A panel of orange energy fills the frame. I can feel my bonds bite deeper into me, burning my flesh.

“From Void you came, and to the Void you now return, Tenno-“

The sheet passes over me. I flinch, anticipating the agony that's sure to follow-

-but I feel… nothing.

I can hear the buzzing of the energy behind me- the machine completed its cycle.

I try to pull one of my arms free. It still doesn't budge.

I glance at the corpus man, who stands aghast. It takes him a minute to compose himself once more.

“...It seems the plot thickens, doesn't it, Tenno..?“

He stalks forward, curiously, before pausing. “-And here I tried to be humane. I can't wait to dissect you, find out why the Transference Boltcutter didn't work.”

Transference.

The word rings a bell. Somewhere in the back of my mind, a dusty book opens. I cannot make out the words, but I suddenly feel as if I've remembered something important. Something at my core, something I was supposed to do perhaps?

There's a tingling in my chest. I look down, and see a tiny, glowing spot- like part of my chassis is melting. I struggle against the frame, ignoring the burning cuts. Oh Void, maybe the boltcutter did do something. Maybe it- 

My mind suddenly goes blank as agony becomes the only thing I can feel- Additional energy loops have sprouted from the frame, wrapping around my limbs, burning and cutting away at my flesh. It seems the shining one wastes no time in claiming his prize-

In an instant, the tingling shoots from barely anything to something I can't ignore. Like a geyser, my thermal systems flush themselves of coolant- freezing the frame's mechanisms, turning metal brittle, and changing the bite of hot energy to nipping cold.

My bonds malfunction, allowing me to collapse to the ground. I can feel my body buzzing with pain and exhaustion. As much as I am grateful to be free, I can't help but question what just happened. I had no energy. I was completely helpless. Where did- no, how did I flush those systems? I didn't mean to- it was like something else took... over... my...

I understand now. I understand the feeling.

There's a child on their hands and knees, sheltered beneath me. Their worn burgundy and gold suit matches my paint scheme. I look at my chest- streaks of energy flicker and fade, as it returns to normal.

I'd... forgotten about this. I'd forgotten about him -

My Tenno. The child I kept asleep.

Chapter Text

It's cold. And hard. And... windy? Our home on Lua was never windy. The moon never had wind- it was the moon, after all.

There's something sticky on my hands- mm, no, maybe not sticky. Stiff? No, not that either. It's a thick liquid, and I can feel it dry pretty quickly onto my suit. Eugh, it's on my hood too-

... Where am I?

I open my eyes, only to feel my tummy try to tie itself in a knot. Or were those butterflies-? Bad butterflies, of course. I don't know what's going on, and I know I'm not the best with my emotions, even if Lotus said otherwise. But, I know this is a bad feeling. I don't think I'm supposed to feel anything other than bad when I wake up in a pool of blood. 

Mm.. not entirely blood. And not normal blood either. There's a heavy, thicker liquid swirled in. Blue-grey. And, the blood itself smells rancid- like something left to rot. Or, no- no, it reminds me of something else. It's fuzzy in my memory, but it reminds me of when I broke one of Mom's specimen jars. Like.. chemicals- and rot, of course. I know the smell of rotting blood-

Yep, this is a bad feeling alright. And I don't think it's getting better. I think the butterflies are holding rocks or something. I feel heavy. And sleepy, but that makes sense. Kind of. I did just wake up, but.. I don't think this is the same place where I went to sleep.

...Where's Lotus? And the Executor? And the smart people with the worried looks?

I.. find my eyes fixed on the pool of blood, my hooded reflection staring back at me.

Did... something go wrong? Lotus said this was supposed to fix us, make us better. That we'd have to sleep for a while, but we'd be normal again after. I... remember her singing to me- to us- as we laid in our pods. 

Eugh. All of a sudden I feel really, really weak. My arms and legs don't feel strong enough to support my weight. Even though it's gross, I slowly lower myself back into the blood puddle.

I.. think that feels better. It's hard to tell, honestly. I think I'm scared. I don't think this is Lua, and... I really doubt that this is what Lotus wanted. Or intended.

I feel an idea worm its way into my head. This is probably just a nightmare. I remember falling asleep, and Lotus wouldn't fail us. She loved us, she said nothing would go wrong- even if that Executor who always hung around gave her mean looks as she told us that.

Yeah. This is just a nightmare.

I was never very good at shaking nightmares off. I think I was probably one of the more nervous of the kids. I'd wake up from a dream about a giant kubrow trying to eat me only to sit and sniffle until everyone else was supposed to wake up. I didn't like to bother Lotus, but sometimes she found me like that. Although... It was nice when she'd tell me a story, or sing to me. I liked when she talked about Old Earth. It... sounded like a really nice place.

I think I feel ready to try to get up again.

Okay... one, two, THREE- OW!

There's a sore spot on my head now. I think I rammed my skull into something metal.

Oh. Oh.

It's person-shaped, but.. not quite? It's red, and bronze, and gold, and.. I think that's a bit of grey? It has weird legs, and its chest is all wrong. Too thin in some parts, and too thick in others- and there's a split down the middle, revealing more gold underneath.

Is it hurt? Is it... dead? It's not moving, and.. eww, it's bleeding. It doesn't look like it should bleed. But. Uh, good to know where the blood-lake came from. I think. I... hope.

My tummy does another twist. This has to be one of my baddest nightmares. I don't think anything's ever felt this real before- and I don't think anything's ever bled in my dreams before.

...Right, where am I? Dreams are something I can control, I think. If I just look hard enough, and want it bad enough, I'll find something more fun.

I try to stay still for a bit, listening, and watching.

Oh, there's a person. He looks kinda old, but... maybe he knows something. He's got robots around him- they kinda remind me of kavats. But, mm.. they're staring at me. I never liked robots much- not ones with eyes. They don't blink, and that makes me feel weird. Like they're staring right through me.

He’s noticed me.

“Now what's this, Betrayer..?” he giggles. 

I don't like that. I feel scared again- and this time I know for a fact that I feel scared. Undeniably, unshakably, scared. I can't say anything, like my lips are sewn shut.

“First, you oh-so generously bring your warframe to me, and now you grace me with your true presence?” 

He tuts as he walks towards me, shaking his head like I've done something he disapproves of. He has a shiny blue coat that jingles when he walks. If he didn't seem really scary, I'd probably like the noise.

“Really, it was quite enough to give me your second flesh. You didn't have to also give me the personal pleasure of snuffing your monstrous little life out-” 

His voice changes from a joking, almost happy tone to a growl instantly. I can't move. I'm screaming at my body to run but I'm frozen to the spot. I can't even wipe away the drop of blood that rolls down my hooded face. Pleasepleaseplease don't hurt me, I don't wanna die, even if this isn't real-

He kneels just in front of me, frowning at the pool of blood. 

“Why come all this way just to sacrifice yourself here for nothing, hmm? Have you come to atone, perhaps, Tenno?”

10-0? So he is one of the people who were supposed to make us better-

I try to respond, but I'm cut off as the man grumbles under his breath. ”Of course, how could I be so callous? Most of you are mute freaks- you and your warframes, both.“

I watch as he stands, giving me a dirty look while I remain frozen to the spot, huddled underneath the metal person.

He raises his hand.

”Zanuka! Take this Tenno to one of the holding cells- I'll deal with them after I'm finished with the investors. I won't let this small hiccup stand in Profit's way.“

One of the robots stalks over. It's.. huge. Almost as big as the metal person. But, it walks on four legs, and it's swirly green and black, with huge claws. A single, orange light sits in the middle of its pear-shaped head, like an eye.

It makes no sound, except for the clinking of its footsteps. I think I find the silence scarier than if it were growling. This... isn't something I've ever known, or had to deal with- but, I assume this is the Zanuka the man spoke of. If it's with him.. it can't be good.

I try to talk, say something- anything- but all that I can muster is a muffled whimper. It feels like I haven't talked in a long time, like my voice is stuck in my chest.

I feel a rumble pass through the ground. The air around me feels different, more alive. I glance up, the head of the metal person has moved. It's looking directly at the man as he walks away, back turned to us. The metal person crouches more deeply, like a kavat about to pounce-

It all happens in an instant. The metal person rams their head into the scary man, sending him flying across the metal platform we're on. The Zanuka turns, crouching similarly and pouncing at its master's attacker. 

The man stands up, the metal person throws the Zanuka off their back, and then-

They turn. They look at me. I.. feel some kind of connection. A faint trickle of reassurance, I think. Is that me pretending that everything's going to be okay, or.. is that coming from them..?

A second Zanuka comes out of nowhere, knocking the metal person flat on the floor, pinning them down. I see the robot claw at them, they're struggling, trying to get up-

I suddenly can't see- the metal person explodes in a flash of bright white light and smoke. My eyes sting, I rub them furiously, trying to get my vision back. I've got to stand up, I've got to get out of here- and, and try to help the metal person too, if I can. Mm.. not that I'm any good at fighting. I've never been in a fight before-

I hear a whizzing and pinging noise, like gunfire. Things bounce off the metal pillars around us, I think I see something tear a hole in a flag-

A Zanuka's thrown out of the cloud, like an old doll. It lies limp for a second, before getting to its feet- but not before I see the metal person emerge, charging at... me?! Oh no, oh no no no---

..Wait, huh?

Wind whips by me. I hear the man yelling for his robots- I'm awkwardly cradled in the metal person's arms, their golden hands supporting my legs and back, like a baby. It's not very comfortable, but.. it seems like we're getting away from the man.

We're going.. really, really fast. I wrap my arms around their neck as they dash around a corner. If I hadn't, I think I may have gone flying, fallen out of their arms. 

I feel my heart pounding in my chest. Everything's a blur. I see people with square, white helmets point and shoot at us with energy weapons as we run past- and I see more robots, too. Ones with two legs, not four. I don't think they're more Zanuka. I really hope not.

Another sharp turn. The metal person is sprinting towards a closed door- I close my eyes, we're going to crash into it--

The door opens just a crack as the metal person barely manages to slide under it. I hear the scraping of metal on metal, and when I open my eyes, there's a gash on the floor.

We've... stopped. Somewhere in the distance, I hear alarms. I hear the door we'd just gone through lock. We're trapped, they're gonna find us and get us-- 

Shockingly, I see the metal person's shoulders lower, as if they're relaxing a bit.

The room is a dead end. Metal walls all around us, save for the locked door we just came from. There's a few metal barrels, a set of shelves, and a desk with a data interface on it. The metal person walks over to the interface, and sits me on the desk gently before turning their attention to the screen.

They reach out, placing their hand on mine. I try to pull away, but they grab my wrist. I feel that weird connection again in my head--

You don't have to keep calling me Metal Person, kiddo.

I'm frozen once more. There's a voice in my head, gruff, but not angry. Are.. they talking to me?

You're confused, I know. And this only adds more questions to your list, I get it-

They turn to me, tilting their head, as if studying me, but.. also in a frustrated way. No sound comes from them, but I see their chest heave as if sighing really, really hard.

But once we're safe, you can ask all the questions you want, and I'll do my best to answer, okay?

I struggle for a moment as I try again to speak, managing to squeak out a single question.

”Promise?“

They look back at the screen, hunched like a condroc.

Promise.

Chapter Text

I let go of the kid's hand, and turn back to my work. We were still in quite a bit of danger, but we had a few moments while the Corpus figured out how they wanted to recapture us. Void knows the Shining One would be out of commission for a few hours at least. I hope that I’d cracked a few ribs when I’d rammed into him, at least.

The Tenno flinches as I draw my parazon and stab it into a connection port. Even with pain clouding my mind, I should be able to hack into the network relatively easily.

I reach out, touching the kid's hand with my own- they don't try to pull away quite as much as they did before.

Okay. We have a moment while I finish this hack. Quick introduction. You can call me Gauss. That's my model- closest thing I have to name. You got that?

I glance over at them, and the kid gives a little nod. Despite their best efforts, I can still feel them faintly trembling. Their red and gold suit, still largely covered in coolant and my drying blood, only serves to add to their visible vulnerability.

Now, what do I call you?

“...Rufus. My name is Rufus.”

Rufus. Good, I nod.

I feel my mind connect to the Corpus network, and I immediately get to work hijacking their communications. As much as I was not looking forward to this... reunion, I needed to call in some help. I could steal a ship under normal circumstances, but they already knew I was here, and there was no way I could take one by force in my current state.

Do you remember how old you are, Rufus? I should keep him talking. Get his mind off the here and now.

He pauses for a moment, pulling his knees up to his chest as he thinks.

”I think... 10?“

Oh.

He was one of the younger ones, then. Poor kid. Void knows he didn't deserve this sort of life. If the Golden Lords had intended children to see what I’d seen during the War, I-

I catch myself getting lost in thought as a bright light from the screen catches my eye. Found it. So they  had   survived all this time. Good. If they hadn’t, we’d have to figure something else out.

Rufus, I'm calling a... friend to come get us. They're going to take us to a safe place. Okay?

He nods again.

Good.

I yank the blade out of the computer, the parazon retracting into my wrist.

Rufus, do you remember how to... erh.. go back?

I tap my chest in a desperate attempt to communicate the idea of transference. Even without seeing his eyes or facial expression, I can tell by the vacant static in his mind that he has no clue what I'm talking about.

...Right. Okay, we'll figure something else out.

I let the kid's hand go, turning to rummage through some of the storeroom's barrels and shelves. If Zanuka were, as I'd sensed, many warframes, then there must be some kind of warframe-compatible stuff lying around somewhere. It was only a matter of finding it.

Wire, alloy samples, modules for robotics, a laser cutter- All well and good, for a technician, but I needed something for a biological entity, not mechanical. Something like...  Aha! 

I pull out a small, half-used jar of paste. Oily, and faintly smelling of the hexanon it was stored behind. This, I'd seen before. A Corpus Crewman's secret stash of stimulant gel for those seemingly never-ending shifts. A bit of this, and I should have enough energy to get myself and Rufus to the docking bays- although... The Corpus construction on Jupiter was a maze, and it hadn't improved since I'd last been here. If anything, it'd gotten even more elaborate and confusing. One wrong turn, or kicking out the wrong vent cover could lead to us being dropped into the planet's swirling orange mists and whatever lay below-

“What're you doing?” Rufus' voice breaks through my internal monologue.

I hold up the jar of stimulant paste, nodding in an attempt to communicate that I'd found what I was looking for. I take off the lid and set the container on the desk, before deciding to communicate with the kid more directly, touching his arm.

I have an idea. It's a bit risky, but, if my old partner doesn't let us down, we should be fine. 

I hold up the paste with my other hand.

This will help me feel a bit better- at least, good enough to get us out of here. I'm likely going to have to carry you again. Think you can make yourself as small as possible when we're running past the Corpus?

He cocks his head a bit at the word “Corpus”, but nods.

“I.. think I can do that, Gauss.”

Excellent. I nod in return.

I take about a fingerful of the paste, and rub it into my forearms. It doesn't take long to feel its effects- my pain dulls, and I shudder as my energy production is put on overdrive. I glance at the computer again- ship's almost here, we gotta get moving.

I pick Rufus up with one arm, and move to the glowing orange security console, parazon bared.

Alright, it's time to go. Once I release this, we're going to have to move quickly. Once they discover what we're doing, we'll have very little time before they try to cut off our exit. Okay?

He doesn't say anything, but I feel him warily agree. 

Okay. Here goes nothing- remember, stay as small as you can-

I begin hacking the console. Right, right, left- no, that one's fine- Perfect, we're good. Lockdown lifted. Kinetic plating... active. If they try to attack us, it should only make us stronger.

Here goes nothing.

I burst out of the room, speeding around the corner to the main corridor. There are Corpus everywhere. I feel bullets and energy beams ping against my additional armour, only filling me with more life as their kinetic energy is converted into something I can use. I glance down at Rufus, taking my gaze off my course for a moment. His fear is electrifying, an additional prod driving me forward. I'd feel bad for him, were the extra reminder of the situation's severity not appreciated.

Through a large bay door, and down a flight of stairs. The enclosed stainless steel hallways give way to massive bay windows. Everything is bathed in a majestic orange glow, alien and intimidating. If I had the chance to slow down and drink in the beauty, I might- but now was not the time for sightseeing.

Ahead, I see the exit- an open platform in the pale vermillion gas. As I'd hoped, a worn liset began to materialise as it dropped its cloaking. I dig in my heels, trying to slow down. Steel screams as my legs grind against the floor, and I hear the shouts of Corpus as I come to a halt.

The landing craft is almost docked. I only needed a few more moments. I feel a heavy, gloved hand on my arm. I pull away, spinning to face the terrified Technician. Their fear is palpable, but I have no mercy for them. I feel no guilt as I release my system's built-up heat, hearing them scream, writhe in agony, then crumble to ash. No, there's only room for a burning, righteous anger in my sword-steel heart.

I close the remaining distance between me and the landing craft, stepping into the humanoid-shaped recess and taking hold of one of the magnetised poles. My body locks into place, and I feel a moment of panic before I remind myself that this meant freedom-

I look down at Rufus once more as the liset takes off, the recess rotating, tucking us safely into the ship.

-I hope this means freedom. What I'm going to do with him, I don't know. Deep in my heart, I prayed Anum would know what to do. 

—————————

It wasn't long before we were at a safe altitude, and reconnected with the Orbiter. After many, many long centuries, I was back at the helm of the ship I'd spent the entirety of the war operating.

I kneel, feeling the stimulants begin to wear off. A disembodied voice fills the cluttered and worn interior.

“Long time, no see, Warframe.” The voice's tone is bitter.

Hello Cephalon. You still seem like a joy to be around.  

I return the animosity with sarcasm. Even if we hated each other, it was better than whatever the Shining One had planned. At the very least, I know Anum wouldn't try to sell me.

“And you're still a wreck.” I can hear the smugness in their voice, “You're aware that most of your extremities are partially severed, and you're on fire at the moment, are you not?”

I glance down at my body while trying to unlock Rufus' arms from around my neck. The Cephalon wasn't wrong. I was in a bad way. Even if I'd stopped bleeding, I was still in desperate need of repairs. And, lo and behold, they were right. Small tongues of flame licked at my forearms. It seems that the remaining paste had caught fire when I'd cleared my thermal systems.

I can see that. It's been...

I manage to pry the clinging child from my chest.

... an interesting day, as you can see.

I set Rufus on the ground. His eyes are still squeezed shut, and he visibly shakes with fear. I internally frown. I don't know how to comfort him. I'm not a parent, I don't know how kids work. He doesn't even flinch as I touch his hooded head.

I need to go see to some things, kid. Stay put and uh. Try to relax, if you can. You’re safe now.

He doesn't move or respond. I hesitate for a moment. It feels wrong to just leave him like this, but.. I don't know what else to do. I can't fix him as easily as I can be fixed.

Even though it sickens me, I leave him alone in the helm while I head into the ship's utility rooms. The foundry, the arsenal, the storage shelves.. everything is coated in a thick layer of dust. It seems Anum hasn't bothered to care for the Orbiter in my absence.

I go down another ramp, deeper into the ship, and make a left. I struggle as I weave my way through the web of fleshy tendrils blocking the door to the chamber containing the tool needed to repair the damage done by the Corpus- the Helminth.

“You leave for- what has it been, two centuries? Then all of a sudden you come crawling back to me, begging for help-” 

You don't have to sound so self-righteous, Anum. You know your precepts state that we're supposed to work together. In the Golden Gods' eyes, we're...

“Yes, yes, partners -” They growl.

Whether you like it or not, things have changed. Surely, you noticed the new biosignature-

I push aside a pulsating nodule of Infestation to take a seat in a chair overgrown with greyish, rust-coloured flesh. Fleshy, insectoid arms with fang-like tips hover over me, expectantly. 

”I was going to ask you about that. I thought you didn't get a Tenno, Warframe. Where'd you get the child?“

It feels like getting punched in the stomach as one of the arms stabs itself into my abdomen, droplets of its secreted liquid splattering across my visor. There's overwhelming pain for just a second, before a wave of warm tranquilization rushes over my sore body.

It's complicated. 

My mind is taken over by a comforting haze.

It just... popped out of me. One moment, I was getting dismembered, and the next, I was on my knees. The Tenno was suddenly just... there. Huddled under me like some kind of chick.

The Cephalon pauses, processing.

What do you know about Tenno? Because I'll admit, I'm at a loss for what to do.

”You? Actively asking me for help? Twice?” The Cephalon tuts, “Gauss, you have changed. You wouldn't be caught dead asking me for help not half a millennia ago.“

Look, I blame you for this moment of weakness.

I huff, sinking deeper into the chair.

I'm tired, and the potency of the helminth's tranquilliser today isn't helping. If you'd maintained the ship while I was gone-

“In my defence, Warframe, I didn't know if you were coming back-”

Touché.

I feel a heaviness in the front of my head as I begin feeling the Infestation stitch my flesh back together. I'd probably lose consciousness in a moment. Good, I needed the rest.

Where to now? What do we do with the kid? I struggle to ask the question as sleep overtakes me.

”The Algorithm suggests investigating at a Tenno Relay.“

Plot a course to the nearest one, then. And try to take care of... take care of the kid- Rufus- while I'm healing, will you?.

My senses flutter, and I fumble my words.

”As you wish, Warframe. As you wish.“

Chapter Text

”Hey. Hey, Kid!“

I hear the voice, but I can't respond. The ship has long since rumbled to a stop. Wherever we had been going, we'd arrived. No matter how much I tell myself to, I can't move. I wish my brain would stop showing me pictures of the events of the past few hours. The guns, the robots, the person that Gauss... that... Gauss...

I'm... I'm still covered in blood. I can't escape its stench- the rot. Even now, I remember the adults' bodies, the older kids coming back covered in gore, the silvery claw-like growths in the walls-

”Hey! Snap out of it- whatever your name was-“ The voice's impatient tone trails off into a low grumble.

”Ru... Rufus.“ I feel like my lips are frozen. My body's stiff, and I feel like I haven't moved for centuries.

”Oh so you do talk-“ They retort, almost mockingly. But, underneath, there's something.. genuine and kind to it, ”Good. Gauss would find a way to glass me again if you'd keeled over and died while they weren't looking. That is, if you can glass a cephalon twice. I have no doubt they'd find a way to do it- or something equally horrible.“

“Where... are we? Who... are you?” The words start coming a bit easier now.

”Kronia Relay, orbiting Saturn. Y'know, where your kind meet up? Did Gauss not fill you in on any of this?” They seem agitated.

“No.” I lower my head back onto my knees.

“Tsk. Pathetic.” 

The voice lapses into silence for a moment.

“To answer your question. I am Cephalon Anum. I'm the uh.. brains behind the ship, you could say.”

“Anum?”

“Yeah. Derived from Alphanumerical.”

"Alpha-numer.. like Alphabet?”

“That's... part of it.” They sigh, “I look at letters and numbers. Well, I was supposed to look at letters and numbers. I'm going to assume Gauss hasn't told you anything about me?”

I shake my head.

“Typical.” They scoff, “Stories for another time. You'll be sticking around, I presume?“

”I.. I'm not sure.“ The images are starting to come back in my head, ”Where's Gauss?“

”Busy. Getting stitched back together by an overgrown meatball.“ There's disdain in Anum's voice, ”Gauss needs to be more careful. Sooner or later, there will come a day when they can’t outrun trouble.“

I fall into silence, looking at the ship's metal floor, counting the myriad of scratches. The frivolous task seems to calm my thoughts a bit.

“Look.” The voice huffs, “Why don't you change into some clean clothes, and go explore the relay? If Gauss is to be believed, then it's been a long time since you've seen another one of your kind. You must be dying to catch up with some of your old friends.”

I lift my head slightly, ”But.. what about Gauss? Won’t they be worried if I leave?“

”I don't think they'll mind. Besides, this is a relay . There's nothing here that could hurt you. You'll be surrounded by kids just like you. You'll be fine, let me worry about Gauss.“

”Mmm...“ I think.

“C'mon kid, you'll have fun. It'll be good for you. What's better than a bit of socialising after a near-death experience?” The voice laughs, trailing off into nothingness as my silence becomes awkward.

“Go on,” Anum shoos, “Gauss and I need to catch up anyways. Go do whatever you Tenno do for fun. Dismember a Grineer or something.”

Slowly, I get to my feet. My legs wobble underneath me, and just the act of standing up exhausts me.

“Oh yeah. Hm. That.“ Anum seems to ponder, ”Guess your muscles may be a bit uh. Atrophied. Huh, I didn't think about this.“

I very carefully place one foot in front of the other, acting deliberately, using the furniture and ship to support me.

I go down a ramp, and enter a rather run-down room. There's machinery, but it looks like it hasn't been used in a very, very long time. Parts have fallen off, and there's rust flaking from the beds of what I can assume is an industrial printer.

There's a pins and needles numbness that's started to creep up my right leg. There's another downward slope ahead, I'm almost there.

I place my hand on a round pedestal, leaning on it to briefly rest. When I pull away, there's a noticeable imprint of my glove left in the dust.

”How.. long has Gauss been gone?“ I finally manage to sit down at the top of the final ramp.

”What, like, when was the last time I saw them?” The voice pauses for a moment, “A few centuries. Two hundred, two hundred twenty-ish years. Somewhere around then.”

“... Centuries? ” The fear I thought I'd fought back wrapped its icy, silvery fingers around my heart once more.

“Yeah, roughly two or three. Although, honestly that's a drop in the pond given that it's been- hm, roughly a millennia since the empire bit the dust?“

I'm seeing spots, and my heart races. They couldn't mean.. they couldn't mean the Orokin empire, could they? But... that means...

”Where's... Where's Lotus...? What happened-“ I feel my voice crack. I'm.. almost drowning under the weight of this concept. It's crushing me, I can't breathe, I can't-

”Ohhhh!“ The voice takes on a cheery tone, seemingly oblivious to my distress, ”Ha! So Gauss was wrong. You do know about the Lotus!“

There's tears welling up in my eyes. I sniffle, trying to hold back the pressure that's built up in my chest.

”I'm not sure, honestly. She tends to frequent places where the Tenno are. Your kind are practically her kids, after all.”

I've got to find Lotus. I.. I have so many questions, and I can barely put them into words. But.. she'll know. She's our Golden Matron. She's an Archemedian, she's smart, she knows everything- she'll know what's going on.

Wordlessly, I get to my feet again, and struggle towards the only open door, the one to my right. A dilapidated living space. A single shelf stands out in the cluttered and neglected space. It's... clean. Dusted. Neatly folded in its centre, a new bodysuit. It's dark red and gold, like my current one, but.. it's made out of something different. There's metallic portions, and the texture of the fabric is... I can only really explain it as paradoxical. It's both there, and not at the same time.

I sit down on the floor, struggling for a moment to remember how to take off my current suit. How long has it been since I did this last? When was the last time I wore something other than this uniform?

There's a creeping, nagging feeling at the back of my skull. I... try to ignore it. Today was already way, way too much. 

I finish changing, and stand up again. It feels strange to feel my hair loose against my forehead again, but Anum must not have included a hood for a reason. 

I manage to catch a glimpse of myself in the glass' reflection. I've.. gotten a lot thinner- and I'm even paler than I last recall being. I look like a ghost, or a corpse. The silvery implants in my cheeks, chin, and nose don't help either. And.. there's something on my neck, like... 

I pull away my new crimson scarf to look at it more closely. It's like a scar or a burn, but it's grey- and metallic. It writhes like it's alive, pulsing with my heartbeat. I shudder, nausea returning to my stomach. It reminds me too much of what happened to some of the adults after the accident. How their bodies twisted, glazing over with unreal metal..

I wrap my scarf more tightly around my neck and face. We're.. not going to think about that right now. 

Time to investigate the relay, I guess.

I carefully step onto the metal landing platform of the relay. There's the whirr of ships, followed by a clink as what I can only assume are warframes step out. There must be a dozen milling about, in all sorts of shapes and colours. Some are even dressed in regal capes and armour. Between them all, however, there's something in common: their weapons. All of them have at least one weapon strapped to their body. The type doesn't seem to matter- I see guns, bows, swords, hammers, throwing knives, pistols, scythes.. and even some I don't recognise. 

Anum said that these were supposed to be my kind, but... I don't see anyone here like me. Only warframes. I feel small.. and vulnerable. And alone. Very alone. I wrap my arms around myself

”Hey you..!“ A blue and white warframe hovers towards me, hand outstretched. It's.. it's talking? Gauss never talked-

“Sorry to intrude there, but you look a little lost.” The warframe mused, half kneeling down to look at me. It was tall, almost making Gauss seem small in comparison- and me, even tinier.

“Where is your warframe? I can’t say I see a lot of Tenno out in the open when Baro is around. 

The warframe has a feminine shape. Mostly dark blue, and white- but now I can see that there's quite a bit of ornate gold detailing over its entire body, too. Two curved, fin-like growths frame its face, much like a kavat’s ears. It cocks its petite and delicate head, the golden crown-like ornament coming from its forehead catching in the light. As if by magic, it had been hovering above the ground even though the wings behind it- seemingly made of energy- didn’t move.

”I... I'm...“ All of a sudden, I can't find my words. My eyes are transfixed on the elaborate, shining rapier on its hip. 

“I'm... looking for Lotus.”

The warframe pauses, raising a hand to its face in thought, “Maybe you could check in the relay? If we can find your warframe, I’m sure it’d be a lot easier to navigate the crowds. Some people can be a bit.. careless when the Void Trader’s around. I've gotten knocked off a ledge by a Wukong's Celestial Twin more times than I'd like to admit. What kind of warframe do you have?“

Have? But.. aren’t they a warframe?

”Mmm.. Gauss? But, It's okay, really, I'll be fine-“ I protest, slowly trying to back towards the ship.

”Are you sure..? I used to find this place overwhelming too. I can help!“ They coax, their tone soft.

Softly, the warframe loosely folding their hands one against the other in thought. Their fins flopped to one side with the tilt of their helmet. Finally, they snapped up, turning away from me before slowly coming to rest on the ground–two soft “clinks” echoing from their feet on the metal floor of the relay. 

”I know how we’ll find your Warframe! You can ride on Titania's shoulders! She’ll understand, I’m sure. She’s taller than most other warframes! You should be able to see over the heads of all the other Tenno. Climb on up! We'll find him, don't you worry!“

...Him? Gauss never spoke, but they never felt like a “him”. Not to me.

I didn't have enough time to finish my thoughts before the warframe kneels, allowing me to climb onto its shoulders. Weakly, I comply.

“As long as we stay away from Baro Ki'Teer, then we won’t run into too many crowds. Why don’t we check around the Syndicate halls first? I’d do anything to get away from him…” 

The warframe giggles. I see tiny metal butterflies lift from her arms- what I’d previously only assumed were decoration. They hover around me softly, and one even settles on my head.

“I don’t claim to know the syndicates well,” the warframe sighed, “I work for some of them, and the others keep sending assassins after me- claiming I’ve ‘strayed too far from the path’ or that I’m ‘a perfect waste of potential.’ I argue with Skewer about it often, but she only tells me not to take it personally. Maybe she’s right… But here? I guess no one cares what you do so long as you listen to the Lotus. But you probably know that already.”

The warframe speaks as if I'm supposed to know what all these names and words mean, but I'm only left with my confusion as I cling to the blue fin-like protrusions sticking out of the warframe's head.

“...You're Titania? That's.. a pretty name.“

As we walk- or rather, hover past some people guarding the relay's entrance, the warframe stops.

”Titania? No.“ It cocks its head again, before continuing to head deeper into the relay, ”But I’ve always liked her name. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little jealous of her sometimes. She's such a gorgeous warframe, isn't she?“

She… warframe? I felt confusion tug at my heart. It spoke as if it was an outside force, not itself. The warframe abruptly pauses its speech, picking up on my confusion.

”Oh! I’m Toothpick, by the way! Funny side effect of having a Titania: No one can see us when she’s in Razorwing. That means the only time people see her fighting is when she’s just jabbing some poor Grineer to death with a rapier. So, I got the name Toothpick. You know, because she’s so small, and because the Destreza… Toothpick trails off, the joke lost on me.

 ”...Nevermind. What's your name?“

”Rufus.“ I've gotten really good at telling other people my name over the course of the past day.

“Oh! That must be because of your suit, yeah? Red? Rufous? Well, rufous is more of a red-brown, but still-“

We've pushed through the crowds now, and Toothpick has stopped. It's a quiet hallway, three doors with different emblems on them being the main landmarks. A few people mill about, chatting with each other. Titania softly kneels down, carefully grabbing me from around her neck and setting me down on the ground. In a light hop, she begins to hover magically over the ground once more.

”There we go, much better!” Toothpick cheered. “Void Trader crowds are the worst, huh? I’m sorry we didn’t see your Gauss, but at least you’re out of the way of any errant Wukongs. Do you think you’ll be okay from here?”

I brush myself off, readjusting my scarf over my mouth and nose, ”I… should be fine. Thank you.“

”Anytime!“ The warframe chirps, holding her hands out as all the butterflies that had taken flight returned to her arms and thighs.  ”I'll be around for a bit longer trying to negotiate with New Loka, so if you need any more help. Just look for the blue Titania Prime! I’m sure she would be happy to rescue you like how she rescued me.“

I nod, even though I barely understand what they mean. They wave, and hover away, a few straggling butterflies following after her.

I take in my surroundings. There are a few people standing by a large window that looks out into space. In perfect majesty, I see Saturn, slowly rotating below.

Cautiously, I make my way to the viewing pane and sit down in front of it. 

Saturn.

I remember the last time I saw this planet. Da on one side, and Kevvi on the other... It was before the jump. A moment of perfect peace before the alarms sounded.

I feel the tears I tried to force back earlier welling up once more. I don't want to cry, I don't want to mourn the horrors I remember. I don't want to feel the twisting pain I felt as my Da... as he...

I feel a hand on my shoulder, and I flinch, pulling away from and looking for the source of the touch. A man in a black and grey suit stands over me, slowly retracting his hand. His grey mask, littered with blue lights, reminds me of a spider.

”I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you.” He has a low, gravelly voice and speaks purposefully, “You were whimpering. Are you alright, Tenno?”

He kneels beside me, allowing me to see the emblem of a white wyrm on his back. Carefully, he removes the mask, revealing his almost-elderly, tan face and short, greying black hair. His eyes are firm, but kind.

”I'm... I'm...“ I can't hold back anymore, and I start sobbing. The warm trails they leave on my face are both comforting and humiliating. All I can taste is salt.

He doesn't touch me, but lowers his head in a gentle, shallow bow, ”Take all the time you need. There's no shame in emotion. You're going to be okay.“

”It's not okay, though-“ I blubber, ”Everything's changed, and. and I don't know what's going on, and I don't know who anyone is, and I barely know where I am, and everything's so different -“

He nods his head respectfully, listening.

”I barely know who I am anymore. I'm Rufus, but what does that mean anymore?! To everyone it seems, I'm Tenno this, Tenno that. Lotus and Executor Ballas never said anything about this. I was a child of the Zariman. And now.. and now people want to kill me. And hurt Gauss. And I barely even know who- or what- Gauss is-”

I stop, out of breath. The tears are coming more slowly now.

“I was supposed to be healed- I was supposed to have a new body that would fix me, make me better after the Void Exposure. Margulis promised us. She promised...” I trail off into a strained whimper, “I want to go home. I want to be with my mum. I want Da to be alive.. I want my world to make sense again-”

The man thinks for a moment, ”...I may not know everything, but I can try my best to answer. I don't know much about Ten- ...the Zariman survivors, but I do know about what happened after. Mostly. I can help you find your truth, if you want me to.”

I sniff, wiping my eyes. “Please. I have no idea what's going on. Gauss… the cephalon, they’ve barely told me anything. I.. I could really use some truth right now.”

He smiles, “Where would you like to start? Ask away, young Rufus.”

“Who are you?”

“My name is Rex Sonokiza, Arbiter of Hexis. I seek Truth. Occasionally, I work alongside another child of the Zariman, like you.“

I take a shaky, deep breath, preparing myself.

“What happened… after the Zariman?“

Chapter Text

“Pass me the jar of nanospores labelled T-525, please.”

“Of course, Archemedian.”

My fingers dance deftly over the myriad of Infested samples we've been studying, finding the correct one and handing it to my lab partner. She smiles, gently taking the glass tube, fearless of the sickly orange growths inside.

”You must be overjoyed about being able to return to Earth.“ I smile, giving a small, respectful nod to my superior, “I can't remember a single day where you haven't mentioned how you're hoping this project will restore the planet.”

“I am. Wholeheartedly!” The woman grins widely as she compares the vial with another, holding them up to the light, ”The Infestation may be crude, but it's complicated. Much like.. looking at a patch of moss, for instance. There's a beauty- an unorthodox detail- that simply can't be appreciated by the untrained eye.”

The Archemedian puts down the samples, setting one aside before looking at me. “But- you know that, don't you, Marianas? You know that there's potential in the Infestation. Where others see a failed project, you see an unfinished work of art.“

I look down at my simple white and grey dress, and give a little bow. “Perceptive as ever, Archemedian. You know me almost too well.”

“Please, call me Silvana. We haven't worked together for two years for you to not use my name.”

“Are you sure?“ I venture nervously. The Archemedian nods subtly in response.

“Alright.”

The room falls into a bit of an awkward silence as we both continue on our tasks. 

“So, tell me. What do you hope to accomplish?”

I cock my head, “What do you mean?”

“You know what I want- to restore the Earth. Return the planet to the glorious state it was in before the Radiation Wars and rampant destruction of its ecosystems.” Silvana smiles, “But what do you want? Why did you take an interest in researching the Infestation? Do you plan on taking the Archemedian's Oath one day too? Or do you have some other objective in mind?”

I think for a moment, setting my tools down. Life was what inspired me- or rather, the strange void between life and death that the Infestation filled. It, an Orokin creation, challenged its makers' foundational beliefs in how the world worked- challenged Dualism itself.

“I'm not sure, honestly.” I sigh, telling a half-truth, “Although, I don't think being an Archemedian is in my future. I'm just not that kind of woman.”

Silvana nods sagely, “Is that so? I see.“ She puts her sample down, turning her head to look directly at me. For a moment, I feel as if the researcher is looking directly into my soul.

“Marianas, you're one of the most crafty Corpus I've had the pleasure of working with. I know you're not telling me the whole truth. You still can't hide that dull sparkle in your eyes that screams 'I have more to say, but I'm not going to say any more because it would be socially unacceptable'.”

I grimace, and look back to my work, saying nothing. She's right, of course, but I hated it.

”In that case, I will have to fill the silence. Marianas, how would you feel about accompanying me to Earth? To help me with my restoration?“

I lift my head immediately, startled, my stubborn silence broken, ”I'm sorry, what? Madame, are you sure? I-I'm not an Archemedian, and I'm barely qualified enough to be your assistant, I-“

”Shh-“ Silvana gracefully raises a finger to her lips, ”I know you have the desire for knowledge, and that's what matters most. You never say it, but you clearly care quite a great deal for life. You want to preserve it, make the system a better place, do you not?“

As I struggle to respond, a faint image cements itself in my mind. Of my husband- no, ex-husband, and my son. I wanted them to be happy. To live long, and live well. Of course I wanted the system to be a better place. Even if it were for a selfish reason.

“I.. do. No, you're.. you're right, Archemedian.“

”Silvana.“

”Yes, Silvana, sorry-“ I find that I’ve nervously started wrapping a strand of my wavy hair around my fingers. 

”I ask you again: I am in need of an assistant- to help me assess and restore Earth to its former glory. Will you help me?“

I feel guilt creep over me as I consider the offer. I should say yes- this job was in a field I knew quite a bit about, and to see Old Earth in its glory once more.. That would be worth a lifetime of effort. But could I bring myself to enjoy the fruits of my labour if I couldn't share it with my family? I wanted to make the world a better place for them - no one else. No doubt, Tau was a paradise, too. Maybe better than Earth- untouched, and idyllic. Whatever Archemedian Silvana and I could potentially do would only be restoration. The Infestation could be cultivated, grown to heal rather than destroy, but.. the planet would never be the same. That paradise had long since been lost.

”Marianas?“

I shake my head, bringing myself back to the present. My days of being a mother and a wife were over. I had to press on, try to heal the sins of the past in this system. Although, if I did well on this, perhaps I would be allowed to venture to Tau someday. No doubt, the Infestation would serve a purpose there, too.

”I'd be honoured, Archem- Silvana. It would be my greatest pleasure.“

”Good.“ She faintly smiles, “I'll have my attendants let you know when we're finished with our preparations. You'll do wonderfully.”

Even as I turned back to my work, I felt bittersweet joy and sorrow twist around and bite into my own heart. I was my own woman, now. Whether that was a good thing, I really couldn't tell.

Chapter Text

You WHAT?!

“I told him to go take a walk- Relax, Warframe, it's fine-”

I pace back and forth through the foundry hall, stirring up dust with every sharp heel-turn. The Helminth's repairs had filled me with life once more, and the Cephalon...

I stopped, glaring up at the ceiling, lacking a better place to vent my expressionless displeasure to.

The Cephalon… filled me with rage.

I trusted you! I trusted you to make one good void-damned choice. One! And did you? No! You didn't!

I rub my hands down my visor in frustration. I couldn't make a noise to save my life, but I feel the primordial growl rise, pressing without release against the inside of my chassis.

“Oh, quit your worrying, he's with his people.” There's an impatient huff to Anum's voice, “It's better than how you left him- practically catatonic, in shock, alone -”

I curl my fingers into fists. I can feel my systems overheating with rage. If this glass-assed fool dares -

Then that should be all the more reason to keep him HERE. Where he can be monitored, and checked for injury! I snarl.

“He wanted to find the Lotus!” Anum's voice reaches a crescendo, “Really, Gauss, this was in Rufus' best interest. You're being strangely overprotective of some random Tenno you found mere hours ago.”

Metal whines as I throw as hard of a punch as I can muster against the support pillar holding the Arcanes database. The feeling of steel crumpling beneath my knuckles sends a cooling wave of catharsis through me.

You wouldn't understand. I hiss, You can't understand. You're a Cephalon.

“And what does that have to do with anything?” 

Your void-damned memories- they...!

I try to wrangle my emotions back under control. Try to recall the state of emotionlessness I'd perfected during the Old War. To call my lot in life harder than Anum's just because they had their memories and personality wiped and rewritten by the Orokin was a low blow at best.

...Nevermind, Anum.

I pull my hand out of the small crater I left in the wall, shaking it out. This was pointless. As much as violence and anger soothed the strange emotions I felt for Rufus, it wasn't the right choice.

”So you're giving up? Just like that?“ The cephalon seemed shocked, ”Gauss, what's gotten in to yo-“

Not. Another. Word. I growl in warning, Egg me on one more time and I'll find wherever your glassed mind is and shatter you into bits so small that even a miracle of the Void couldn't put you back together again, you understand?

Silence. Thank Void.

I heave a sigh, and walk towards the helm slowly.

I'm going to go find Rufus. Who knows what he's gotten into- or what sort of trouble has found him. After all, Tenno Relays aren't watertight. There's a non-zero chance that the Shining One has spies here- and I don't want to find out what he'd want to do with Rufus. Understood?

The hum of the ship's engines, and radio chatter is the only response I get.

I said, do you understand?!

“Yes, yes- goodness, Gauss, I get it-” Anum mumbles in what I can only assume is exasperated fear.

Good. I'll be back in a few hours.

I head for the exit before pausing.

And get this ship so clean that an Orokin Executor could host a dinner party using the floor as a plate, understood?

I push through the crowds of the relay, weaving between warframes of all shapes and sizes. It's been quite awhile since I've seen such diversity- and in one spot too. Ostron children warily pet the heads of a Voruna's pack, a Vauban and a Protea chat as they mod their weapons together, a Titania plays shawzin as an Octavia dances, making up tunes for her mandachord on the fly.

Mmh.. Titania... Practically my kin. She and I were made by the same hands, in practically the same place… I feel memories tugging at me again, as if I'm on the verge of recalling something important that's buried under other thoughts. Thoughts of-

I stumble backwards as I collide with another person.

Watch where you're going, you Infested piece of-! I shake my head as I regain my balance, my train of thought stopping as I touch the lavender, silk-like fabric caught in one of my airfoils.

...Esteemed matron. My gaze shifts upwards ever so slightly to the half-helmeted face of the Tenno Mother, the Lotus. I'd never seen her in the flesh before, of course. I wasn't Tenno, I didn't frequent Tenno territory. I was nothing more than a-

“Warframe.” I feel fear in my chest as she seemingly finishes my thought, a gentle smile on her face. She must know I'm a fraud, yes? An interloper.

You... hear me? You hear my thoughts?

“We have much to speak of, it seems. It has been a... long time since I've seen a warfame like you. And I doubt you came to this place for no reason.”

She gestures to an empty platform overlooking the crowded hall and the central statue of a Rhino. I begrudgingly follow, kneeling beside her as she sits down.

“All Tenno are known to me, yet I sense no spark within you. Why is that?”

I feel like I know the answer, but-

I stop, noticing that she's holding a tablet towards me. Right- So, she can't hear me. That's… probably for the best.

I feel like I know why, but I'm not sure. I know I do have a Tenno, but... I've always been myself. I didn't even know he existed until recently. The letters flow from under my fingertips, like the current of a river.

“I see.” The Lotus considers, “And who are you?“

I look at my hands. I'm a Gauss obviously. One of the first created, but not the last by a longshot. I start writing my serial code slowly, the letters and numbers rusty in my mind.

She reaches over, gently pressing my hand away from the screen, “Not what are you- who are you.”

I'm a Warframe, I write, that's all there is to it.

“Kin to the Infested, guardian of the Tenno, blood-stained war machine of the Orokin,” she smiles once more in a comforting, yet.. inexplicably unsettling way to me.

“Many of your kind lose their minds to the unstopping passage of time, to apathy, or to the horrors that their nature subjects them to. Yet you persist- a rarity. You retained not only your mind and sanity, but also your independence. You are more than merely a warframe, Gauss.”

Then what am I? I scrawl, If I am more than just a warframe, what am I? I remember things, I remember Rufus, but.. at the same time I don't. As if.. as if it were all a dream. A story, told to me by another.

“Dreams have a way of showing us what lies within. A way of showing us what we really are. Rufus- your Tenno- he dreamed. Yet, now his true nature is exposed, for all to see- including you.”

The Lotus cocks her head slightly, “What is Rufus to you, Gauss?”

I pause, considering. Rufus was a Tenno. My Tenno. A child, changed and mutilated by the Void. I was his protector. Even as the passage of time had tarnished my memory of him, I remember holding him in my metal arms, comforting him, and telling him to dream. Dream of another place, another time- a better time. Throughout the War, I could hear him whimper in my head- and all I could do was pull the curtain over the window of reality more tightly shut. War was no place for a child- the hands of the Golden Lords was no place for a child. These Tenno, these syndicates, these weapons.. they weren't fit for a child either. Not for... for...

There is a union in the back of my mind. The old book telling the tale of my life rejoins its prologue- the mere half a century I spent as flesh and bones, not metal and Infestation. I was a person, once. I loved, and lost, and yet I yearned to love once more. I prayed for the coming of a time when I could truly love again.

I venture to write a response, my hands shaking. The truth was becoming clear, and it.. It scared me.

I am a guardian, and Rufus is my ward. While I keep watch, none shall harm him. I am his shield, to protect him from the horrors of the world. I am his warframe. I am his Gauss. He is my Tenno. He is my child. And I…  I am his mother.

Chapter Text

I can't remember the last time I slept. I can't remember the last time I ate. It's been at least a week since I last left my lab.

I rub my eyes gingerly- the pustules and tumors beneath my skin hurt like hell, even with the anesthetics I'd stolen from the supply room. I sigh. I knew this wasn't going to be a painless process when I'd begun it. I'd seen what awaited the recipient- their agonized screams echo still in my head- I'd just.. never suspected I'd walk the same path as them. Not.. intentionally. 

I run my hand over the pair of flat, bronze implants, one smaller than the other. The worst was yet to come.

A knock at the airlock door. I hurry to throw my scarf and coat on, trying to hide as much skin as possible.
”Yes?“ I hoarsely hiss. It was merely a day or two ago when the disease had started taking my voice. It was.. progressing as expected. But, soon, the metamorphosis would require outside help. Something I couldn't do alone...

”Mari? Thank Void you're alive, you had me worried when you didn't show up at the progress meeting- If you keep doing that, the Executor is going to have your hide. The Seven are very uptight about the War, and they need to hear good news, not silence.”

I stride as confidently as I can towards the door. If I made this quick, and could put up a good façade, Silvana wouldn't know. She can't know.

My fingers run over the keypad, and the airlock comes free. I open the door a crack. The Archemedian, once full of life and excitement, was now haggard and listless. Her eyes were glassy, and the dark circles under them were the only adornments she wore. Even as she held her data tablet in one hand, she nervously rubbed her wrist- the meeting had clearly gone poorly. For a split second, I feel guilty- Silvana had given me a new future, a new hope. I owed her my attendance, at the very least. But.. then I remember him. His scarred, emaciated body- pale, and covered in wounds and void burns. He'd barely grown since I'd last seen him. He was still.. so small. My son, my baby boy... It was like ripping myself apart to take my eyes off of him and listen to Archemedian Marguilis as she explained our new assignment. I couldn't tell anyone, of course. If someone knew, I might lose any hope of helping him. Ever.

“Silvana.” I rasp, “My apologies, I was... preoccupied with my work. Strain G-041 is nearing completion, I... needed to observe the subjects.” I feel a gurgling cough rise in my chest, but I push it down, wheezing as softly as I can.

“Mari-“ Silvana's voice drips with sadness, ”Let me in. Please. Don't lock yourself away with your work. We miss you. I.. I miss you.“

I close the airlock, tightening my scarf over my mouth and nose. I wasn't contagious, we'd been instructed to make sure it wasn't- another pandemic was the last thing we needed. But, just to be safe...

I pull the door fully open, revealing my cluttered lab to the Archemedian.

”I can spare a moment, but I really must return to my work.”

Silvana steps inside, taking in the dim interior. I shut the door behind her.

“How... how is T-029? Progressing?“ I try to make small talk while I put myself between the woman and my main workbench.

”She is.. progressing.“ Silvana sighs somberly, ”The capabilities the Executor requested are proving to be difficult. When her mass compresses in her fourth function, the results are rarely... not explosive.” 

“The particles...?”

“Completely tear the creature apart and- to use the technical term- turns her insides into outsides,” She sighs, “I... hate this. The destruction we bring. The Infestation was supposed to right wrongs, not cause more.”

I glance behind me at the transference bolts. She was right. After Archemedian Marguilis was committed to the Jade Light, we'd been busy. Our skills were needed by Executor Ballas. We'd adapted our specialized Infestation research to construct bio-drones- Warframes, they were called- to fight Perintol's heretical creations- the Sentients. In the face of failure after failure- and a bloody breakthrough, in the form of a loose R-007 which massacred an entire wing of this very laboratory- we'd been given a new objective; To develop Transference- a force by which the... few, void-tainted survivors of the Zariman 10-0 incident- could pilot a Warframe. Silvana and I.. we'd thought that Transference and the Warframes would only be used to help the survivors. To rehabilitate them. But... we were wrong. Tricked, even. Now, instead of healing, we created destruction. War. These... mere children- the Executor saw nothing more than machines with which to win his war.

The salt from my tears stings my broken skin, where small sores had burst. When I found this out... when I saw my son, when I saw Rufus- I knew what I had to do. For him to be well again... I would pay any price, I would do anything. And that... 

My hand touches the bolts' cold metal. One large, one small. Custom-made in secret by my own hands.

That's what I'd do. Any price. It was treason, subterfuge. But I would do anything. Anything.

”...Silvana.“ I rasp, lowering my voice. I didn't know if there was anyone who could be- or was, overhearing us, ”There is something I... need to discuss.“

The worry on the Archemedian's face intensifies, and she opens her mouth to speak, but I raise my hand, stopping her.

”I... have been experimenting with the G-041 Strain in my... personal time. It is still erratic, but.. stable.” I have to stop as I start violently coughing. I can feel the viscous fluid from the infection bubbling in my chest as I try to breathe.

“I... there...” I struggle to catch my breath, choosing my words carefully, wary of eavesdroppers, “A series of calculated exposures... may have occured over the course of the past two weeks.”

“Mari, what are you-”

I raise my hand again.

“You yourself know that the Infestation is incurable. I need your help to... wrap up some loose ends. Before I completely waste away.”

The Archemedian stands motionless, tears welling up in her tired eyes.

“You... you can't just leave me alone. You can't, you can't be Infested-! Y-you... it's got to be something else-”

I shake my head and turn, stumbling to a shelf. Moving some boxes, I produce several IV bags, orange with the traces of nanospores.

“Why?! Why would you do that?! We had plenty of Grineer! And.. and if you were ready for a final test.. the Dax...”

I feel another cough rising in my chest. I hobble over to a pile of papers, searching for a moment, before I pull out a worn photograph. An ancient relic of my husband.. and my son. Before the accident. Before I realized I would never see them again- at least, not as they were before.

I point at the blond-haired boy as I feel my mouth flooding with saliva. I swallow as best I can.

“For him. He was there- when Marguilis explained her plan. For the survivors of the 10-0. When we... came under new management, I knew I had to... deal with him myself.”

Silence.

I turn around, taking up the bolts in my hand.

”I.. I need you to help me, Silvana. I can't do this without you.“ I can feel my own tears begin, ”You're the only one here I can trust. Help me.. help him. Please.“

”I... Mari...“

”Please.“ I try to keep my voice as steady as I can, ”Honor a dying woman's wish.“

She takes the bolts from my hands, studying them, ”These... aren't standard. You...“

”Made them custom, yes,” I wheeze feebly, “The small one is the receiver, the larger- the transmitter.”

“It's.. supposed to be the other way around.”

I nod. I knew, and even in my wasted state, Silvana knew too.

”...What can I do?“

“Help me install the larger into the... host,“ I gesture vaguely at myself, leaning against the table to support myself.

I give her the photograph. The dead have no need to remember the living. Now, my parental fury carried his memory.

”And ensure, by any means necessary, that the smaller ends up with this specific 10-0. His name... is Rufus.”

She nods somberly, quivering with emotion.

I turn away, pausing before glancing over my shoulder at her.

”For what it's worth... thank you, Silvana. You've been... a wonderful friend, and... I pray you get to finish your project after this Voidforsaken War. I.. wish I could've seen the Earth green again. I wish I could've taken my son to see it.”

I start violently coughing again. I swear I can taste the rancid blood of Infestation in my mouth.

“...Build the forests again one day. Finish it- for me. Please.”

“I... I will.” The Archemedian almost appears to be in shock, “I will, Mari, I will.”

Chapter Text

There's a heaviness to the air as I look down at my hands. It crushes me- the centuries of consciousness that I was supposed to remember. The Old War, the Fall of the Empire, the rebirth of the Zariman survivors as the mythical Tenno...

I look up at Rex, my eyes stinging. I've long since exhausted my tears.

“This... is a lot to think about.” I stumble over my words as I struggle to process everything that the Arbiter said.

He faintly smiles, gently laying a hand on my shoulder, “There is no need to rush, Child of the Zariman. You carry the weight of the world- a great burden to place on such inexperienced shoulders.“

I pause. I feel my lip trembling again. Everything had changed, and I felt so... alone now. Lost, and confused. This was barely my world anymore. Did I even count as Tenno if I hadn't experienced the history I was supposed to have lived?

“What... do I do now?” A simpler question- the bigger worries could wait until I returned to Anum and Gauss.

“Your life is your own now, Rufus.” Rex holds out his hands, palm up, “You are not obligated to do anything. Although a majority of Tenno reclaimed their roles as warriors after their second awakening, others did not. Some decided that enough was enough, and retired from a life of violence and bloodshed.”

I sit in silence, thinking. I'm not even sure I knew what I was going to do with my life when I got to Tau with Da. Or, even if whatever I was going to do there was what I wanted to do. How now could I be expected to choose?...

Rex gestures to some of the relay's patrons. 

“Some Tenno become artists. Others, inventors. Many bond together, forming tight-knit clans and close friendships. Aiding others may be one's focus, while finding beauty may be another's- and their interests can change over time, too,” he nods, “It may take decades, perhaps even centuries, to learn how to be your own master. But, it is a lesson worth learning, a discipline worth pursuing.”

“How will I know when I find the thing I'm supposed to do with my life?“ I look up at the Arbiter, silently pleading for some definite answer.

He chuckles, startling me slightly. I hadn't thought such a genuine laugh could've come from such a grizzled man.

“I believe in order and fate. To that end, I say: when the moment comes, you'll know what's right for you. It takes time, Child of the Zariman- and perhaps even a helping hand. After all, the Tenno can be likened to a family- a rather... divided and dysfunctional family, but one nonetheless.”

I stare into the relay's halls, hypnotized by its life. A warframe twirling to a shawzin tune played by a Titania grabs the hands of a nervous-looking wine-red warframe, bringing him into the dance, the rings on the back of his shimmering helmet jingling. A second warframe with a mouth in its chest- gilded, and strawberry pink- begins to clap, keeping time. The atmosphere is jovial. It's.. hard to even think that these Tenno- these children- have the blood of an entire empire on their hands. But- here, they dance, they play, they live peacefully. They've proven themselves to be soulless killing machines- yet, here-

I look down at my hands. If I am Tenno, does that make me a killer? Is the slaughter of the former servants of the Orokin- all in the name of balance- what I'm predestined to do?

As if sensing my worry begin to spiral, Rex lays a hand on my shoulder, ”There is beauty in the chaos, Rufus. You are more than merely a machine. See- goodness is all around you. Now you have a chance to see it firsthand.“

He removes his hand as he rises from his kneeling position- offering it to help me stand. As I feel his firm grip envelope my frail hand, I hear the music stop. A familiar presence tickles the back of my mind, and faintly smell oily smoke. As I turn to the crowd to see what interrupted them, I see the matching bronze and crimson Warframe push through the crowd, storming towards me. Even though it lacked eyes, I could sense their determination, their new, now nigh-overwhelming sense of purpose. 

The Arbiter lets go of my hand, and I take a few steps towards the Warframe. They rush forward, closing the distance, and wrapping their arms around me. As I feel their hand cradling the back of my head, I feel two words pass through my mind.

My Rufus.

He's shaking. Trembling, I.. I can't tell if it's in happiness or fear-

I pull back, praying that I haven't scared or hurt him. My systems are overheating from my racing thoughts and overwhelming emotions- He must think I'm disgusting, that I'm some kind of selfish freak for staying behind, oh Void, does he know?! If I tell him, he's bound to hate me, right? I-

“Gauss-” My panicked train of thought is interrupted as I hear him speak. I look down- his eyes are red, and his upper lip is chapped. He's been crying.

What happened?! Who- I pause I follow his gaze to a man in a black uniform- a Hexis adherent. I feel my airfoils expand and vent steam in rage, Did he hurt you?! I'm going to ki-

”No, no!“ I recoil as Rufus pushes his face against my chassis, startling me.

Then... why were you crying? What happened, Rufus?

”I...” He whimpers, pulling away momentarily to look up into my visor, ”Why... Why don't I remember the Old War, Gauss? Why do you and Anum remember, but I don't? I'm a Tenno, I'm supposed to be able to remember it, aren't I?“

It... wasn't the accusation I was expecting, but it pierced me nonetheless.

Rufus, I... 

I feel winded, all rage drained out of me. Alright, Mari. It's time to make peace with the truth. It's time to be honest. No more running.

I sit down, crossing my legs, and motion for Rufus to do the same. As the Octavia and Titania's music starts again, I cycle my life support systems- the closest I could get to a sigh. I take his tiny hands in mine.

You know now, don't you? About the War, about the Naga Drums, about... the Tenno?

He nods slowly, “...Why am I different, Gauss? Why do you remember, but I don't?“

We... Warframes. We were people once. Servants to the Orokin. Some of us were mighty Dax. Others, were less so. We were numbers to the Orokin, not names. Some of us were volunteers. Others... not so much.

I wish I could look him in the eye, to drive home what I was saying, and pray he'd fill in the blanks himself. He only cocks looks more intently at me, as if looking past my Infested shell and into my soul- if I still had one after all the sins I'd committed.

When the Zariman was found, I was one of the scientists who was given the task of designing new bodies for the Zariman children. Bodies that could withstand your Void-given powers that were otherwise burning you up from the inside. We... We were supposed to rehabilitate you...

I feel pressure building up somewhere in my head- where I'd assume my eyes are, buried beneath my shell of rot and steel.

But when they executed the lead Archmedian, Margulis, for trying to protect you, and you became no more than weapons of war in the hands of the Orokin... I... I couldn't just stand there. I had to do something.

I bow my head in shame.

So... I committed treason. In secret, I designed transference bolts- the mechanisms that allow us to be linked together- that would give me the power to access your consciousness, instead of the other way around, as it was supposed to. This is how I can speak with you- think of it like a river, flowing from me to you, carrying information.

I can't bring myself to look at him, so I keep my gaze fixed on the ground.

We were using the Infestation to create new, more durable bodies for you, so... I infected myself- to create a new body for you, specifically. I... I wanted to protect you. Using a person as a weapon in war, much less a child... If I had continued to help the Empire without doing anything... I don't think I could've lived with myself as a person.

I raise my head, daring a glance. When I meet his gaze, he asks the question I've been dreading.

”But... why me, Gauss? Why care about me specifically so much? There were thousands of kids on the Zariman. Why me?”

Because... 

I run my thumb over the bones and tendons in his hands. Void, he's so thin...

...Because I think I would've made Kevvi sad if I hadn't tried to save you from the Orokin. Not after I couldn't save you from the Void.

I can feel him mentally recoil as I mention his toy, now long-lost to the Void's grasp.

It's... What a mother is supposed to do, after all- protect her child. Isn't it, kiddo?

I can feel his mind haze over, processing the bombshell of information I just dropped onto him.

I told you I'd see you again someday. I just... I shift awkwardly, bringing my gaze back up from the spot on the floor where it'd drifted.
I never quite imagined it'd be like this.

”...Mom-” His voice is barely more than a whisper when he finally speaks.

I.. wanted to protect you, I did all this to keep you safe. When I heard how they were planning to use you, how they were treating you, I had- I had to do something. I-

Despite being physically unable to cry, I feel the pressure of my emotions build up to a bursting point as Rufus throws his arms around me. 

”I thought you were dead- When I heard the Empire was gone, I- I thought you'd died too. Like Da did-“

I reach around the Tenno's chest in an unrestrained bear hug.

I love you so much Rufus. I love you so, so much. I'm so sorry I had to meet you again in the skin... in the skin of a monster.

“Mom...” I can feel his warm tears trickle down my back.

My son. My beautiful, beautiful son- It's... It's so good to see you again.

Chapter Text

How are you feeling, Rufus? I feel the Warframe's hand gently squeeze mine.

”I.. I think I'm okay. A little nervous, but okay.“ I'm slightly overwhelmed by all the sights and sounds of the colony. Machinery and humming all blend together as one, punctuated by the strikes of hammers and the clank of motherwrenches.

If you're not feeling up to it, we can come back another day. Remember, The Lotus said to take things slowly. The last thing we need is to have you get hurt.

”I'll be fine, I promise.“ I try to smile reassuringly, ”I'm alright, Mom. I want to try. Plus, things should be quieter once we get out onto the Vallis, right?“

The warframe nods. 

If you insist. Just remember- we can leave any time we need to, okay? You just say the word, and I'll have Anum pick us up, okay?

I nod, squeezing her metal hand back.

“Alright. Let's do this.”

Hand in hand, we push deeper into Fortuna. As we approach our destination, a small alcove to the side of a coolant canal, the burly Solaris disassembling servofish within raises his head.

“Ah, how do you do, Outworlder? Can't say I've seen you around before. To who do I owe the pleasure?”

This is the moment we've been practicing for.

”My name is Rufus, I'm a Tenno. And this is my Warframe-“

G-A-U-S-S, She/Her. Mom signs beautifully. She's gotten a lot better at it since we started practicing together.

We're looking for work- conservation. Miss Eudico said that you may have something up our alley.

”You've come to the right place then, Young Rufus, and Miss Gauss.” The Solaris nods, and his tone is reassuring. So far, so good.

“I am The Business. I work to protect the fauna of the Orb Vallis' delicate ecosystem from the hands of Corpus... 'scientists'. I work on a track-n-tranq basis. Find the animal, tranquilize them, then we'll see about taking care of any needs they have. Does that sound like something you can do?”

I nod, squeezing Gauss' hand again, “I think we can do that.”

“Good.” The Business nods again, before gesturing to a shelf stocked with goods, “Now, what can I get you set up with? Do you have a Tranq Rifle? Need Echo-Lures?“

I feel confidence rush through me, ”Let's see what you have.“

I can feel Rufus breathing gently next to me as we watch our bait site. My eyes gaze is fixed through the scope, waiting for a creature to fall into our trap.

Are you cold at all? I think the temperature cycles are changing. I don't want you to get frostbite-

”I'm fine,“ he whispers, ”...you're really warm when you're focusing this hard.“

Mmm... good. I return my focus to where our quarry is supposed to appear, satisfied with his answer.

“Hey mom?” Rufus whispers after a moment of silence.

Yes, hon?

”How do you still love me? I'm too much of a coward to do regular Tenno things, despite the whole... Void... Exposure... thing.“

Oh, honey.

I move my gaze from the scope once more, looking at the tiny crimson Tenno curled up on his belly, lying next to me.

I love you because you're you. You're my son. It doesn't matter to me if the Void changed you- I love you for your kind heart, your love of animals, your gentle disposition. The Void hasn't changed any of that. Not even the Orokin could shake who you are, and you should be proud of that.

”Sometimes I worry I'm not doing enough, though. Other Tenno go on grand missions, and actually help people. But... I'm too much of a coward to hurt someone.“

Not wanting to hurt someone doesn't make you a coward, Rufus, I chide, gently, It makes you the bigger person. You're doing what you can, when you can- like what Miss Ticker says, remember?

Rufus sighs, rolling over in the snow, ”Sometimes I still feel like a monster, though.“

I pause, considering my words carefully.

You and I... we were forced to change by situations outside of our control. Even if we're considered monsters or devils by some, their opinion means nothing- it's the intentions in your heart that matter. You're a kind soul, hon- and I love that about you.

I put the tranq gun down, stroking my son's snow-dotted, golden hair.

I love you for all that you are- both as a Tenno and as my son. Our trials changed us- for the better. We became stronger. Remember what Arbiter Sonokiza said?

”Mmm... It's hard to believe, sometimes.“

I know. It's hard, and it rarely gets easier. But, you and I are smart. We've survived this long- and we'll continue to do so. We forge our own paths now.

“...I love you, Mom.”

I love you too, kiddo.

I pick up the tranq rifle, watching the bait spot once more. Out of the corner of my vison, I see a flash of movement. In a heartbeat, I shift my aim, firing two darts in quick succession. I can see it stumble and fall a few seconds later.

We got something! Let's go take a look, shall we?

I hold out a hand to help Rufus up, and, after picking him up and putting him on my shoulders, we walk down to the sleeping animal.

It's large, wide-shouldered. Its three eyelids quiver as it sleeps, and its white coat disguises the snowflakes that fall on it. You can only see it in the snow because of its black mane.

“What is this, Mr. The Business?“ Rufus has already pulled out our communications tablet, and is scanning the creature.

”Ahhh, a Fuming Dax Stover. An excellent catch. These aren't too common- and tend to be tricky prey. Well done, both of you.” His praise is genuine, and even under the scarf obscuring his face, I can see Rufus' expression light up.

“I'm sending a drone to come pick it up. When you come back to Fortuna, I'll give you some tags for it.”

“What can we do with tags?”

”I make small, stuffed versions of the Vallis animals. I'd be happy to trade them in exchange for your assistance in protecting them.“

”Wait, Floofs- really?!“ Rufus' tone is delighted.

You're excited about the opportunity to get a new friend, aren't you? I wish I could smile to express my pride and pleasure. The Tenno nods aggressively in return.

”Yes.“ The Business responds, just as the drone arrives, picking up the Stover, ”Bring any tags to me, and we'll find a nice reward for you.“

Rufus touches my shoulder, and I feel the transference flow being reversed. I try to ease back on my degree of control, letting him into my mind.

I... wish Da could've been here to see this. How things ended up.

I pause, letting his grief wash over me.

Me too, Kiddo. Me too.