Quiet's Zero Tales Episode I-IV

Note: this is a big of a read, so grab your fav drink, and lets go!

QZT Episode I
Teachings, and Lessons Learned

I broke up my data files about this character for a reason. I  have been trying to connect various dots on my own time. Although she is a part of V, Quiet has been "the shadow" for many more years. I chose to give her more backstory, yet it was not fully utilized. However if it does happen, I would love to see it unravel like this. To be honest, this is Quiet's actual introduction, although it may not be a part of V (yet), it is another part of the vast puzzle.


The Boss -
During a mission some years ago, she finds a young woman lost, confused, and unsure of what her life should be. Taking this lady under her wing, the Boss teaches her ways of finessing those skills she's lived by. Hunting, fighting, gunkata, cqc, and listening to nature. Many of those can be taught, but to listen, it is another skill all its own.

As a student, Quiet adapted to "The Boss's" way of life. Balance, yin and yang, and how all things are one, unless you have darkness in your heart. Quiet's rifle, also nicknamed "Butterfly" was a gift given to her by the mentor that taught so many more.

How long ago was this? Possibly before the Boss took into space, in that harrowing mission. There is lost time between various aspects where we don't quite understand depth perception and cognitive memory shift. (as Strangelove details in her discussions)

Speaking of said doctor, she was also part of the staff that looked over Quiet's maturative state. Because she was unlike anyone else in the field, gaining various attributes through her training, excelling with high marks where others would fall flat. (this is before the wolbacchia incident)

When "The Boss" found this lost young woman, it was more of kinship a fellow spirit that lost its way. Not only that, but possibly her family was in the crosshairs of a battle long ago. Time is lost to so many, but the future is what we build once we get back on our feet.

Quiet does not share much of her past with those she does not trust. What is her language? No one knows, she in fact can phonetically learn any language and connect with foreign tongue. With an intellect that would make even the smartest scientist or linguist blush.

As Quiet evolved, so did her skillset, adapting to battle tactics, and range of prowess. Very few reached such a high level of expertise.

But it is when a call gets heard, many of these people Quiet has become family to. Now have to take up arms against those they've been sent as allies, now enemies. Is there an answer for all of this?

Being part of the Cobra Unit, she is assigned a task. Search, rescue, or seizure. On recon, she keeps watch over the enviornment, for the slightest change around the area. The most intimdating thing, is that man, known as "Naked Snake" its a name she's heard before.. back then that day her home was...

Flashback..
Naked Snake is admist the ashes of a fallen place, time stands still. The Boss is nearby, looking for her comrade, worrying he might be lost to the flames.
Snake: "Master I am fine, what about that young lady over there?"
Boss:" I do not know, she looks lost, alone, and confused"
Snake:"Young lady, come here we won't hurt you. We didn't do this believe me. Cross my heart, hope not to die"
Boss:(punches Snake in the gut) "Mind your manners"
Boss:"Now how can we help you? Do you trust us?"
Quiet is a bit dazed, looks up and approaches
Boss:"okay its a start, can you tell me who or what brought bad things here?"
Snake:"Is she mute? Does she understand us?"
Boss tries to communicate in a variety of languages, but none catch on until..
Cherokee, and Deutsche is spoken. Quiet smiles and approaches the two heroes.
There is nothing left. What year is this nightmare?

As far back as she can recall, her mentor had a huge library of books that covered various languages. During her tenure Quiet adopted to learn as much as possible. The most intimidating thing always reminded her what not to say.
Boss:"Remember, words can kill if you speak up. Use your emotions and body to convey your words if you are afraid to speak" "But for those you trust with your heart, speak with all your being, they will understand who you really are. Eyes, heart and soul".

Being nicknamed Quiet, it was for several reasons. During her time with the team, she rarely spoke often, mostly keeping to herself unless it was a lesson of the day, or being a presence.
It is also a codename that they gave her, it just fit for some reason so she adopted the moniker.

Back to present time, being a watchful eye and noticing the patterns in light change in the forest, water, and rocky terrain. It is one day, a battle happens miles away. Something happens inside of her body, causing her to disappear. Fwoosh she re-appears, but Eva is shocked to see her friend re-appear next to her. Teleportation? Is it even possible?

Sometime later gathering her strength, Quiet finds even more hidden things about her stay. Her ability to run was always noteworthy, she could hit speeds that no one could keep up with. Why is she so different from everyone else?

Long ago, there were rumors of those with powers. But sadly they became monsters, they were said to be bad spirits that walked amongst the living, but were no longer the humans they once were. Cursed? Pure evil? Or a puppet on a string? No one's lived once they've encountered these beings. This place she called home, went by many names.. it was
Silent
Quiet's eyes focus on a hill nearby, they gather details, colors, shapes, and lines that no one else spot from miles away. "Eagle vision?" She puts all of her eyeline towards animals living in the forest nearby, birds of prey flying above, to those funky frogs that seems to show up in random places. Focusing on another object, a cardboard box with feet hanging out walking in that area. Lying on her back, she laughs so hard and starts to cry.

"Why are all these memories coming back to me?" Quiet ponders while aboard a helicopter heading towards Cyprus. It is nightfall, no one sees them coming. The call came over the horn from that weirdo with a mask, Skull Face (the guy who cried wolf, having to recover after Snake Eater, and being blamed for something when others turned their back towards him)

Quiet gently rubs her face, to make sure she's awake. Looking around, she knows where her mind is focused on. That man spoke to her earlier. "This is the man I order you to go after, no buts about it, he must pay for what happened to us on that chopper so many years ago"

No it wasn't Skull Face, he acts as a mediator for XOF unit. It was that other man, he looked like some guy that walked out of a 50's flick, with back combed hair and those shades. Did anyone ever see his eyes? Quiet thinks back to the Boss's words "you can only see what's inside a person's heart through their eyes, if you cannot they are not trustworthy".

From Cipher fo XOF, what is this man's goal? Neither person gets along with the other. So how does he fit with Big Boss after Central America? How did they have a fallout? And why did he join this team just to push our buttons? Quiet questions all of these motives, but has to keep a clear head about this mission. She has waited this day to prove herself to this new squad that has accepted her after her master's have disappeared off the face of the earth.

"Its go time people! Make me proud! Take that man down once and for all!" Skull Face roars.
The other members of the squad also cheer on. But Quiet is not like them, she doesn't like where this is going. She is ready, her gear is set, guns ready, and other things she might need for close combat, just like her mentor taught her long ago.

Nearing the hospital, a lavish building that is nearly a museum with art deco complimenting the grounds. A mansion that stretches for miles, there is no possible way people work here.
On approach the chopper hovers mid-flight like a eagle staring down their pray. On the com, that man Kaz's voice sneers over the radio "makes your move, its what she taught you!"
Grabbing a rope, and streaming down like lightning, she moves in without hesitation. No one's spotted her, wait there's no guards, no enemies here. What is the endgame?

Kaz refreshes her memory, "That man is in a hospital bed in a secure location, he might be pretty banged up. Its to be expected, we suffered through hell that day. I don't know why I let his ass live this long." Quiet can't quite decide if this team was worth joining, they are nothing but assholes.

The hospital halls are vast, there are maps, but they intertwine like a forest. Focusing her eyes on a certain point, and listening to the floor and walls nearby. A sudden change in pitch gives her the clear go ahead. Moving forward, she zips past any field of vision, even her so called teammates can't blink an eye once she's in motion. Its as if time stands still, she moves like a breath of air or a song rushing in. Nothing can get in her way.

Along the trek to find that man, she approaches some staff members with ferocity. If they don't answer, they die. Even if they answer, they are snuffed out. They don't matter to this mission, its just to reach that point. Wait, some doctor speaks of a man waking up, to a nurse, who he confides in, there is not much chatter like this within the members of this hospital. Something is different. (its in greek, but she recognizes it clearly)

Making her move, she snags her line on the nurse in the hallway who darted a glance. Only to shriek in fear, one last breath.
Quiet asks her "Where is that man you're keeping here!" "Tell me!"
The nurse can't find words, "no on my life i swear never!" Urk.. life is gone
Quiet cannot believe the monster she's had to become to get here. None of it makes any sense.

Getting closer, she stalks the doctor's movements. "Fuck he saw me!"
Inching by a second, she grabs the doctor by his throat and silences the man. His body thrashes to the ground.

Quiet in her dark form admires her handiwork, but inside she feels sick, she dispises this.
Kaz:"Have you made it to the target?" "Confirm"
Quiet" The man in the bed saw my face. What should I do?"
Kaz:"That is him, end him now"
Quiet"Yes sir, understood"

Just glancing at this man for a second. This is really worth it? If she does this, she gets all her questions answered. Is it for rank? Superiority? No. Just to be left alone. One last job, then she might be able to walk away. But with all of this on her conscience, what then?

In that moment she approaches the injured man, and reflects on the past. "No memories." She darts her eyes back, noticing something familiar, she glares at him with all she has inside. "Why am I sent here to kill this man!? I can't!?" PTSD sets in, she thinks back to the day the boss and that man saved her life. With a sneer, and a growl all she can do is put her anger into this, just one move its over. (then she remembers that song the boss taught her, whenever she felt uneasy, sing, hum a melody) Did he hear that? Wait what you are looking at!?

It is then in an instant, another person vaults over their bed. "Fuck there's another person here!? No wait, it can't be!" Quiet can't speak, she's face to face with the one who saved her, and a total stranger. Grabbing her knife, she tosses it at the man's shoulder. Then he tries to toss items until he finds a chemical that may cause severe pain if in contact with another element. The container's contents explode splashing all over her body, stained, smeared, it erupts into flames covering her entire body. All she can do is drop, roll, scream in pain.
"An exit! I can get out of here!? Please let me get ouf of here alive. " she vaults out the window and disappears. Blackout.

A man, and a horse appear out of nowhere. "So my intel was right, falling angel out of the sky. Okay, your wings have been clipped. But we can heal you somehow someway."
Adorning this horse, the man dressed in cowboy attire commands his ride with precision, and they disappear.

It is then she wakes up sometime later in some building, a hospital of some sort. A doctor, a woman approaches. "Young lady, you have been badly injured, I know of a treatment that may help. So please rest, we will take care of everything".

It is then she hears her old tongue, spoken by an old man. The doctor responds in kind. Only problem is, she finds herself lost, heavily medicated, but aware of what's going on. She looks at a mirror, but there's no one there. Trying to close her eyes and pray "c'mon body move it!"
The doctors respond with their team to help the patient calm down. "You must rest, healing can begin".

"I want to get out of here!" "I want to find out what I did wrong!" "Help!" "Oh god why can't i..") the room lights up, she's now in medical pj's the one's with a butt vent. Um yeah not comfy. Adjusting to her room, there's a flower, "A Star of Bethlehem" just like her mentor.. no but she's not here anymore. Is she? "I am Dr. Clark, I remember a certain someone loved this flower, he told me to give it to you"  (note: Quiet is dazed after the treatment, so she communicates unsteadily in her motions, but can comprehend everything around her)

"He? Does she mean Snake?" "But was it real!?" (she wants to speak up, but that freak accident did a number to her body) (as she tries to speak, it is like a whisper hard to hear, if only she could speak up)
"Doctor, what happened to that hospital in Cyprus!" "XOF, that Man on Fire" "What happened tell me?!" As the meds wear on her, she gestures to write her words down instead.

Dr. Clark responds, "I only know what I've heard, the team died there that night no one survived. All the staff was reported dead, even the rescue teams that fought the blaze. And that man you speak of, he is a ghost, he is not here either, but he did tell me to keep those just for you in case you woke up asking that question like you did now".

("Who set us up? That intel was wrong, I never intended to take a life like that, especially that man") Quiet bites her tongue, hoping to make it bleed.

"stop that, you are more wiser than the rest, I feared you dead that day" the old man spoke.
Quiet was not sure if she should speak at all to both parties, knowing she wasn't hearing things before. She kept that secret to herself knowing the old language of long ago. Someday she might speak it, just to make him feel whole once again.

"Only one problem with this parasite, is that once it matures you're memories and speech patterns may be affected. But its only way we can save you".  the old man reitterrated
("What of Skull Face, i want to tell him my peace") Quiet growls in frustration.
"There will come a day" "I do not like him either, but its the only way we can help cure your wounds" "Who made you this way?" "Is it that man?" The one with those shades?"
Quiet shakes her head no. Then the old man asks "was it Skull.."
Quiet shakes her head yes. The medication kicks in, leaving her dazed again. Closing her eyes. Time passes again.

Waking up she's in a room with others, that masked nutcase barks over the old man's request to not use the parasite to do any harm. Fearing it may transform like it did before in that town where all those people died, but somehow that thing lived underground on the other side.

It is then some member of XOF, another scientist approaches her bedside. "Ah you, I know you, it is your time to become one of those gifted ones" A needle with some weird liquid and a creature inside forcing its way out, enters the iv on her wrist. "There it is done, now you will become part of the Mist Unit, a true monster of the battlefield"

Quiet can't move, only feel pain as the creature tries to attach itself. But fails to.
"How did the others change right away!? How can you resist!?" the scientist begins to freak out over the astonishing find.
Still sore, she tries to pull out the iv and get out of bed, but she's so tired no energy left. That weird being tries to find a place to lay dormant. And her memories flood again.

In pain, she lets out a scream. "Ah so it goes, Skull will be pleased"
In the hallway, the old man and the masked nut square off on what is going on. Quiet can't make out the words because she tries to fight the monster they've infected her with. Agony wreathes like she's on fire all over again. Only way she can escape the pain is by screaming at the top of her lungs, then she hums that song it calms her down. The meds she's been on kick in again, laying down all her strength left her body.

"No more, you said no more tests!" "I will not do this anymore to harm more people they don't deserve to become monsters!" the old man argues
"My my, just because this research can benefit mankind, do you not see what the future holds for this!?" FOXDIE!

"You are insane, i do not want this for her either" Dr. Clark bursts into the room after hearing about this tackle of words that should not be in a place of science.

"What's done is done, there is no turning back on the future, we make it real, it is what Zero wanted, and I want power to utilize control against that man once and for all and what he did to me!" Skull Face in all his glory pushes his agenda once again.

Unable to listen for too long, Quiet drifts out. And then she hears a voice, a soft gentle tone. Like Paz, before GZ happened. "Paz is that you where am i?"
"Silly girl, you were always in your head" "I wish you spoke more often, its weird being away, I'm sorry I cannot be there, I.."
"Spirit nuu oh god Paz.."

Awake or asleep? She wasn't in the laborartory observation room anymore. It was instead some place else, foreign yet familiar. Thinking back to her training, listening to her surroundings, birds, the wind restling leaves, a harsh wind, a sandstorm bellowed rapping against a window. Wherever this was, its far away from before, it felt different. It was like an alien world, it felt so foreign, turning around would make one feel dizzy.

A map on the wall nearby displays "Afghanistan". A familiar face is in the same room with her. Many years ago, she knew this man as "Adam". The Boss did explain that her son was a part of this world, but his journey was different. "Oh good, you're awake. Can you understand me okay?" Ocelot asks. Quiet nods, and smiles. "Oh my, now I remember you young lady, that day my mom saved your life. Well its good to see a familiar face like yours". Quiet admires his recollection of that past. But it feels like a distant memory.

"Someone from my old life got in contact with me, saying you needed some support. So here I am. Those tales my mom told me about this "impossible girl"I understand why she called you that." Quiet remembers. But if she speaks up, she thinks of that lesson the Boss told her years ago "words can hurt, worse let alone kill"

"Hm, that intel I received said something about a parasite. I saw what happened to others affected by it. But seeing you here, you look normal, although unable to talk to me makes me feel uneasy. I understand what you went through. My assignment is to aid you on this journey, we will catch up with other old friends, or enemies. I don't know what time has done to them."

"Ah I see you noticed that map, yeah I've been there. But we're not going there quite yet. You've got some training to do, to get yourself ready for what's ahead."

Feeling a bit dazed and confused, Quiet tries  to gather her thoughts. But she begins to feel uneasy with that foreign creature in her body. As her mood changes, a certain frame of mind expresses her thoughts. "Oh my, you can do that?" Ocelot notices the shift in Quiet's facial expression, a masque briefly shifts in and out of his eye sight.

"Hey Pequod set us down there in that open area. I gotta get this lady back on her feet, and ready to go" Ocelot asks the chopper pilot. "Roger" Pequod answers.

In that brief amount of time, Quiet prepares herself in deep meditation. Recalling those lessons her mentor taught her. "When you feel uneasy, breathe in and out, then focus on something positive. Ease your pain, say a prayer to the heavens, it will help you in so many ways".

In that tranquil moment, Quiet is motionless, her breathing has eased, her mind is clear. She closes her eyes and thinks of the beautiful place she once called home. At the same time, Ocelot notices the young woman's repose, it is peaceful. "Truly remarkable, I haven't seen this in a long time, it takes me back" Ocelot smiles, wondering what peace she's finding in that mind of hers.  "I know why my mother took you under her wing, you are one of a kind".

All the while, clearing her thoughts, recalls a prayer her grandfather and grandmother taught her years ago when she was little. It was to thank the Great Spirit for all your gifts, your heart, your mind, body and soul. It is that moment, she was silent no more.

"Good, good, that training all those years ago, this is what it was for. Not the killing or masquerade, being true to yourself" Ocelot humbly smiles.

During her meditation, something overwhelms her, she begins to cry from both eyes. It has not happened in a longtime, all that pain, rage, frustration, and acceptance.

As the chopper was getting closer to its destination, night to day, day to night. Every sound felt like it contained a melody, only her heartbeat would sync up with the world outside. Not many knew that about her, how in tune she was with nature. Her old life, the old her was no more. It is now she found clarity, she is not the same hunter she once was.

There is no telling how many days they've up in the air. But only that every moment felt like an eternity that was not to be taken for granted. "The world out there is not what it used to be"
On the radio, there were foreign reports about world incidents, it was horrifying all this time she's been away, the world did indeed change.

"The future is not yet written, you can impact that change. Make it your own" The Boss once said to her long ago. Nearby, she sees Ocelot in the cot across from her. She smiles, knowing that a part of the Joy still exists.

The chopper begins to hover, then promptly lands, not with a jolt, but a slight bounce.
"Okay, we're here folks, the exit is right over there, thanks for flying Air Pequod"

The where? Monument Valley. A vast land covered in various elements, of earth red, blue, green, yellow, and orange. The season is summer, it is a steamy time of the year. Quiet notices her gear in a container, lifting the lid she recognizes that gift her mentor gave her years ago.
"Oh hello old friend, I've missed you"

As they've landed, the trio gets their gear packed up and ready to move. Seeing as there is no dressing room space, Quiet gathers her things and finds a secluded spot. Leaving a note next to Ocelot "I am outside, I will wait till you are ready to start, just like your mom taught me" (as she wasn't sure about how to communicate, she thinks back to her native tongue, it is what she writes down as it is what's in her heart. Would he recognize it? She hoped so, as the Joy ran her through various training sessions, like a lightning quiz on how to handle words with utmost care.

Night turns into day, the chopper lays silently motionless. Pequod set up camp for the crew, and starts working on breakfast. "Morning young lady, would you care for some coffee?" Pequod, kindly asks. Quiet nods, grabs a cup, finds a seat. Ocelot pops up out of the chopper, "I gotta tell you buddy, nice flying I felt like I was in heaven". "Really? They don't call me a master of flight for nothing after all" Pequod humbly answers.

"So for breakfast, hmm I got this and that. Oh and Calorie Mate, haha that stuff is legendary.
Quiet notices the amount of goodies, Pequod must enjoy camping. She obtains a few things to munch on. "Ok Quiet, I hope you're ready to restart your training, we'll work each day to build your stamina and focus back to better shape. No not just better, accelerated.

But before breakfast, Quiet put on her gear, it was different, lighter somehow. As she adorned her gear, her skin felt the touch of the light of the sun. It felt so warm, peaceful. But this vast land made her feel so alone, even though she had company.

After breakfast, she gets up, Ocelot asks "I see you're up and at it, okay for a start go find various high areas a few meters here and there. I will toss a rock, and you shoot. Its practice, as we're in an open field, it would make good use of those hidden talents".

Quiet nods, getting up, she gets into her stance, then takes flight. The intertia beneath her feet, heart rate slows, she is focused, every breath is a just a gasp of air. Zipping across the grounds, the earth rises with every motion, in a standstill moment Ocelot and Pequod can only watch in awe.

En route, she notices birds mid-flight moving at a slow frame rare, her heart stays steady. It is an insane feeling, this speed, she moved quick before, but it feels different now. Gathering enough balance, she lowers to the ground, fist to the earth, concentrating on a high cliff, she leaps, her body leaves the ground, she does not look down. Once airborne, her body carries the current, she vanishes, her body now feels motionless, then touching ground. Landing safely, she adorns her rifle at the ready. (loading ammo, as its practice, using dummy rounds)

Some meters away, Ocelot gathers a few rocks for their practice session. "Okay ready" "Go!"
Four rocks go airborne, Quiet gather her patience, fires a round. In a split second, the rocks shatter mid-air, 1, 2, 3, 4. All that's left is pieces flying in a manner of directions. Ocelot ducks to avoid the ricochet. "Well done".

As her training continued, they went through various manuvers, from practice targets, to close  combat, and ammo reconfig (break down and setup, she still retained her speed at dismantling, and putting her gear back together). Quiet felt nostalgic about all of this, because of what Joy taught her so many years ago. Sometime has passed, as her training continued, day and night.

"Seeing how you've gained your skills back, are you ready to hear what I have to tell you? About that night in the hospital, I got called in to be your supervisor, as you are now my eyes and ears. Whatever happens from now on is between us 3. No one else knows about the mission ahead.
But that man Kaz, he is not to be trusted. However neither can I, but i have a role to play, as do you." Ocelot retains composure about what is next.

Carefully listening to each word, she retains every minute. This is unlike anything she's ever done before. "Your next mission is to watch out for Big Boss. He is a man I trust with my life, as he saved me many years ago, and i have a debt to repay" Ocelot calmly explains a bit further.

"However, you might see a change in his appearance. Alot of things happened back then, so he won't look the same when you last saw him" But from every word Ocelot uttered, she wasn't sure if she could fully trust this man. Eva and Paz both explained that others involved can but sometimes cross sides to prove their worth. Ocelot was known in the world over a marksman with his handguns. But even though he could master that skill, is he a spy too?

"I have faith in you, my word is honor. However you may not like what else I have to say"
Ocelot explained the amount of time lost since her "incident" back in the hospital. "Alot of time has passed, people you knew have changed, some are gone, others have become something else. Just trust your heart, it will guide you."

Quiet considers that wisdom, like her mentor taught those years ago.

As the crew packed up their things, and boarded the chopper. Quiet began to question why she was ordered to kill Big Boss that night. It has haunted her ever since that night happened. One last glance at this open land, as it reminded her of the many things she's seen while being a part of XOF. The world in all its colors, held a darkside too, but she chose to stay towards the light. Maybe that's why that creature could not fully change her body after that night. Memories a bit fuzzy, but she was starting to gather more of her composure together.

As the chopper took off, so many days and nights have passed. Feeling a bit sleepy, she tried to get comfy in the chair, her back to the wall, and strapped in. Closing her eyes, she remembers  a song she heard that night "Take On Me", humming a few bars. Ocelot noticed her smile in her sleeping state.

Flying above the waters, after a refuel trip, the trio spot a sunset, Quiet still in her meditative sleep state feels every emotion, flow, and energy from the outside world. It is calm, for now, peaceful. It is then she ponders a thought about Big Boss. "Will he remember me? Hate me for what I did back then? Can he put enough hatred in his heart to forgive all I've ever done?"

As their journey continued, more sunrises and sunsets pass by. Time moves so freely, but in her minds eye, there is calmness that wasn't there for so long. Nearing their destination, it appears that some new force is invading this last that does not belong. Over the com, Pequod picks up russian dialect. "Hmm how many channels do we have to the outside?" "I count five sir" "Ruins ahead, I'll land us easy on the lower plains so they don't spot us. Safe journey Quiet"

Quiet listens, and nods her head, her mind is clear, knowing what she has to do. Protect that someone.  Chopper hovering with exquisite care, Quiet grabs her stuff, and vaults out of the door to the earth below. "How in the heck does she  do that!? No parachute?" Pequod watches in amazement, they are so high off the ground. "I dunno but its thrilling to watch" Ocelot's eyes watch the sight before them.

Falling to the earth, she displaces her body downward, as if flying. Speed picks up, to slow her descent, she bends her legs and arms towards the air current. Focusing on the ground, she focuses her mental state, vanishes, it is then the earth trembles with force. An impact wave is carried, but not heard. On the ground, she readies her stance, grabs her binoculars.

"Okay, Quiet, you know the drill, good luck" Ocelot sends his warm wishes. With all said and done, she preps her state of mind, and vaults towards a high place watching the earth to see if that man might show up again someday. Loading her gun, she gets into her stance, at the ready for anyone who invades this holy place that do not belong. But Ocelot did mention about that man, and how he was different. That man is her challenger, not someone she is meant to kill but prove herself worthy of honor. If it is the same man, she knew long ago.

Time passes, more people appear, but not him, not yet. Days and nights pass, it is until she hears a horse in the distance, and then a sound of a steady heartbeat. Its rider, that man has arrived, gathering her strength, she fires a warning shot. "pop-whizz-bang" It is then everything she was taught to be, in an instant comes back. She is now the legendary sniper vs the legend of Big Boss.


QZT Episode II
Quiet vs Venom

Where we last left off, the two were set and match, one bullet flew by Venom's head. Quiet gains her composure, focuses, finds her mark.

Snake: I'm pinned down. Any ideas?
Ocelot: Ah our silent assassin, Quiet.
Kaz: Make your move now, you've gotta make it count!
Snake: Wait, what you want her dead?!
Ocelot: I would not want to lose her, she might have vital intel. Don't kill her boss.
Kaz: She is a part of Ciper! Take care of her now

Snake: Alright, I got an idea. <click> Snake turns off his radio. Besides he needs silence to concentrate. On his side, the wolf er..D-Dog passes a message along to his partner.
Snake:"Oh good boy, what do sense? Up there?

Quiet, knows something is off. Why isn't he firing? Back to position, pointing her scope.
Snake: Hmm, she knows I'm here but doesn't pick me off. Guess that's a good sign. Okay time to move!"
D-dog goes in search of a scent, oddly he can't pick one up right away.

Quiet thinks, hmm if I didn't get close to that plant. "Oh nuts"
D-dog's ears tweak, he picked up on her scent.
At that instant, she keeps her balance on point. Unwavered, but a bit worried. Flashing her light as a deterrent hoping it throws them off.

Ocelot:"Boss, is that a refratcted light coming from her gun!?"
Snake:"Aw nuts I forgot to turn my... yeah what about it?
Ocelot:"That's an opening, mark her movements. And stay sharp, she's damn good.

Moving closely to the ground, Venom makes his move. Hoping he's not in her viewer. On the plus side its nightfall, so it should come in handy.

From Quiet's perspective she finds herself giggling. Something she hasn't done in a long time. Time to tease her opponent.

Snake: "Oh shi...!"
Ocelot:"Now why does she need a laser light for!? Oh crap boss, get out of her eyesight!"
Snake:"..."
Ocelot:"Quit messing around"
Snake coughs, and gathers his pride.  "Yup, I'm in trouble"

(*For anyone wondering, yes there are intel members on the field listening in. In disguise, one is a tree, another is well inconspicuous)

Snake ponders this predicament, counting how many shots fired / remaining. "Hmm, nice at least D-dog is okay, I wonder if I can.." he thinks to himself. Dashing to the wall nearby, dives and takes a shot close to Quiet's position.

"Haha, you wish" Quiet smirks to herself. "Hmm guess I'd better move" With a single thought, she hops down from the high spot, and jets off to her next location. "That building might help me hide".

D-dog responds in kind with several barks, wagging his tail. Moving slightly forward, Venom bravely dashes to a spot that might help find this sniper. "Can't hide forever!" he gestures with the tone of his voice.

"Hehe, I could do this all day" Quiet thinks what his next move is gonna be. If i lower, hmm better balance. Then she starts humming.

The two meet at some point, with their target reticles facing each other. "Click, Click"
"Oh c'mon not now!" Both refill their ammo stock at the same time, and again face one another from a distance. Bullet gets loose, flies, and whizzes to the target. "Thank god for sleepy darts" Venom packed them just in case.

As the noble bullet approaches velocity, zip! ping! Quiet barely makes a move when it hits her shoulder. "Hey not fair, I, did he?" Trying to gather enough strength, she puts her rifle on her back. And picks another spot. Zip.. fwoosh

"D-dog go find her!" and so the noble pal goes in search of the lady. But now her scent has changed, his nose can't quite pick up. "aha!"

On the broken bridge, Quiet lies on her back, in repose readying her rifle. Hoping she can become a bit translucent to the bricks underneath. "That wolf is amazing, those abilities are getting tougher to sneak away from!?"

Meanwhile the somewhat dynamic duo gets a move on. But Venom notices a good spot, where that bird was earlier. Deciding to perch, he readies his weight to match the set of earth. "Close, okay where are you.."

A light, that laser light is on his shoulder for a brief second. "Crap time to..."
Whiz! Bang! Pop! "Fire!" another bullet flies.. and makes a landing on her right shoulder.

"Oh c'mon I play cat n' mouse, and he gets me. Okay mister." Quiet gathers her strength, but stamina is wearing down a bit. On the move again, she picks a cliff side matching the earthen wall. "If I find a good spot, he can't see me with it being nightfall"

Snake admires his handiwork, but before the applause begins a bullet knocks him on his ass.
Ocelot:"Wow she finally got you! Um might wanna get her back?"
Snake:"Haha, very funny I'm laughing. Ow. okay let's do this"

D-dog can't track her. Either its the air change, or she is covered by something. Tree, sniff, bark, bark tree.

Venom finds a spot, calmly aims his rifle to.. match up with his opponent. Zip. Pow..
a bullet clips his shoulder. "Hmm these zzz darts should have one more punch left in them"

Quiet tries to gather her strength, feeling a bit woozy from the tranq darts in her system.
Venom grabs his binoculars, it gives details on his opponent's stamina. Its dropping, and fast.
"Must splash some water, gotta.. ugh I can't move."

Venom admires his skills. But its short lived, for the lady gathers enough strength to move near the river. D-dog barks in increments of 3, her movements timed to each bark.
"Wait, do you like her?" D-dog responds with a tail wag.

Nearing the river, a small waterfall splashes enough to carry a illuminated rainbow. Staying for a brief moment, it gives her wooziness some relief. On the offset, Venom sees to his wounds, not bleeding too bad, the sneaking suit keeps him from gouging out or leaking.
At the waterfall, Quiet does a water dance, feeling refreshed she opens her eyes. Listens to a faint heartbeat, is the wolf or the man?

"Hmm, 1, 2, 3, that's it."
"Woof!"
Silence. The area surrounds Quiet with various sounds, wings flapping, a slight breeze. That heartbeat again, its steady.  Even a faint water droplet slows down, as she makes her move.
Dashing in the moonlight, almost disappearing.

"Go D-Dog, find the lady!" And so the brave wolf dashes to where her scent carried from the water. He tilts his furry head, listening to the waves. Each splash carries a unique signature, as she moves, each droplet falls fast.

"Remember, breathe with every movement, each heartbeat is a melody all its own" The Boss's voice echoes in Quiet's mind throughout this battle. "Ok teacher, i got this"
Finding a vantage point aided by the full moon, she halts all her motion to a specific point.
"Wow he can tackle me for hours? This is incredible!" "Ok a few more shots.. and its over"

Laser guided point, sniper to sniper one more time. "Whizz... Bang...Zip"
"Aw crap" Whud! Quiet's body could only take so many tranqs.
"Boss, nice work, you decided to save her instead. I would have done the same thing" Ocelot positively adds.
"Grr, you should have used lethal bullets, it would have ended sooner." Kaz interrupts
"She works for Cipher damnit!" Kaz begins
"Not this again! We don't know all the details. Say Boss, I am gonna call in a chopper to land, you bring her back, its your choice."
"No boss, she does not belong here. If you bring her, I will.." Kaz gets defensive
"You'll do what Kaz? Kill? She's done nothing wrong but self defense" Venom intervenes
"Let the man decide, its his choice. You ok with that Boss?" Ocelot tries to break the monotony.

Venom approaches the defeated sniper, who is laying on the ground. As he glances at his opponent, he ponders what she's been through to get here. The outfit may be a distraction, but he would rather be honored to have an ally instead of an enemy. But just in case, he puts a pair of handcuffs on her, and carries her over his shoulders. She may be a prisoner of war, but she is not his enemy no longer.

As the chopper touches down, Venom picks up Quiet in his arms and gently puts her inside. Getting into the vehicle, he places a jacket onto her body to cover her up, might be cold. Or being a gentleman. Kindly he shuts the chopper doors. In that instant, Quiet wakes up, undoes her cuffs, and tosses the jacket; only to disappear in a blink of an eye.

Venom grabs the jacket, but can't find her anywhere. Looking around, he has a distinct feeling she is still there, but hiding. Pequod gives a heads up, "Say boss, where do you want to go? We have tons of water up ahead, your choice we go anywhere"
"Back to base, we'll sort this out later" Venom repiles

As the daylight begins, the chopper veers over the pure blue waters of the ocean. Cascading colors of immense waves, and no land nearby. Until a jet comes in from out of nowhere.
"Boss we got company! Its an F14, its gonna turn us into swiss cheese!" Pequod barks over the com.
"Alright, we got this" Venom responds, opens the door and gets near the gatling gun. However at the same time the enemy jet fires a few bullets knocking him back. A lumiscent presence appears, grabbing hold of the g-gun and grazes the jet with a few smartly placed shots. Piercing its armor, the enemy jet decides to move in closer, making a b-line for its target.

Venom admires his new allies skills, letting her know he can take over. He kindly asks her to move aside, she responds, but dons her rifle. Together they take on the jet at the same time, one bullet, straight and true, zips into the cockpit of the jet killing the pilot. They watch in awe as it rips apart, sinking to the waters below.

For a moment, Venom smiles admiring his new allies skills. Quiet hands back the rifle, promptly puts the handcuffs back on, and sits down.

"Boss what happened? Did I hear a rifle?" Ocelot quirks the question
"Yeah, it was her, smart move too, saved us" Venom humbly answers back.
"Grr, that means nothing" (and Kaz's voice trails off)

"Ok base, we are on our way home!" Pequod calls over the calm to get ready to head back.
However not is all peachy, several choppers escort the trio on their return to home base. With guns pointed straight at Venom. Is it treason? Or misunderstanding?

Again. Kaz preaches to the choir "Boss she is the enemy, she does step foot on this base. Do you hear me!?"
Ignoring his qualms, Quiet approaches the door, looking down, then she looks at Venom. Its almost as if saying "I'm sorry"
"Wait!" In that second, her body cascades to the down force, gaining enough momentum she slows down her return velocity, knowing the launchpad is a place to land, and vanishes in midair. All the while, her pursuers on the base can't help but watch this remarkable sight.

For that instant, Venom watches the same but from his perspective he can't believe it. "Take us down!"

On the ground, Quiet's makes a slight wave, as it hits the ground she re-emerges. As if her body rearticulates from her feet, body, and head. All of her musculature was seen by the troops, once again whole, she gets up and looks carefully over this place.
"Fire! I order you to take her out!" Kaz interjects
"Wait, she saved the boss. Don't we owe her?" Ocelot tries to calm down his rival.
"Pfft, do what I said"
Quiet gathers her strength, her eyes dilate towards these people that Venom calls his team. On that same heartbeat, she focuses on that man, Kazuhira Miller. She remembers why he hates her with a passion. That night, where it all went wrong. What is he doing here?
"Hold up, we'll put her in a cell for questioning. We'll figure this out later" Venom calms down his troops.
"What are you doing? I said move it" Kaz barks at Quiet. She responds with a head tilt, scoffs, and turns away, and as she walks, she makes sure that everyone takes notice. Moving her body side to side, like a supermodel on a catwalk, but sassy with boots. Her outfit reveals enough of her skin, but it embraces the light enough she feels relieved to be away from Kaz.

As the ground troops escort her to the new cell. She overhears a discussion from Venom and Kaz.
<Kaz and Venom meet halfway>
<Kaz:" Boss you are going to regret this! That woman"
<Venom: "I know, she knows our location. Either way, one of these days we're going to have to kill her. But now is not the time. When the time comes, I'll pull the trigger"
<both men look forward, Ocelot nods but can't say anything>

Quiet feels every word, and is unsure if coming to this place was a good idea after all. Being taken down the stairs, she awaits her judgement, jury, and if they choose to exile or execution. Nothing about this place has ever felt right, at least she has a bed to sleep on. Food on a regular basis, and a restroom (um but no privacy)

As time passes, she thinks back to a time another situation happened. Back when she was with the XOF team. It was rough back then too, most of those squad members were dark characters, fortunate few actually communicated with her, mostly women. All the male members would do is oggle, and comment on what she looked like. In and out her gear.
It just became routine until someone tried to make a wrong move.

It was a stormy night, she couldn't sleep, it was near 2am. Listening to her surroundings, she heard several light steps on the ground nearby, however her enemy didn't know she had her trusty knife under her pillow. At the ready, she waited for them to move in, it was one of the male squad members, he tries to grab her in places she doesn't feel comfortable with, letting a heartbeat sync up, she gathers her strength, vaults out of the bed and plunges the knife into their throat.

"Fuck you... stab..guck" Thud the body hits the ground. One of the female members jumps out of bed to see if her comrade was okay. "What happened?" "He tried to.. why? Quiet just looks straightforward, with no emotion.

"Its okay, let's take care of this, I'll stand watch, we'll take turns sleeping from now on"
That night, they did as they were taught. And tried to rest relying knowing they had one another's back. Not only that one female member, but the rest of them too. No one tried to mess with her again after that night.

Quiet thinks over that memory, praying no sick monkey gets anymore of those ideas. Because she's ready, if someone tries to pull a stunt like that again. But then she thinks about Venom for a bit. It calms her soul, knowing that there are few people who have a heart. Even though this life is tough, they find a calmness in another to see a personality trait in someone else, trust.

Trying to sleep, she tosses and turns, knowing these peope see her as a stranger, a freak, an outsider. If they only knew what they were up against. Listening to her surroundings, it sounds like spray paint touching canvas. With a thought, it sounds like some admire their work. "pfft, whatever they think doesn't matter"

Days and nights pass, almost a week, routine day and night. It never changes, but at least she has music to keep her mind occupied. It has a nice playlist, some songs she's heard of, and others that are new. To help calm her nerves, she takes a shower, hopefully it takes all her worries away. As the water cascades, she thinks for a moment. Is this my life now? Being captive? Lost in thought, she finishes her shower, lowers and grazes the water as it splashes. Feeling relieved she lays back down, hoping something positive happens, and soon.

"Hey there lady, I got an offer that might help." Ocelot politely asks in a mild tone.
"?!" "You!" Quiet points to Ocelot. "why?"
"Why huh?" "Well I tried to work things out with my team captains on how to handle your situation. I see good things happening here"
Quiet just wonders what her old friend is up to.
"No worries, I will leave some stuff in a gear pack. Supplies, ammo, rifle, and other key things you'll need to head out with Boss." "Its up to you how to handle things. I know you saved his life for a reason". "And my word is honor" Ocelot humbly bows.
Quiet just smiles, knowing he means well. So I am free?
"I wish that were the case, but its all I can do to keep you from being a jailbird. Work with the boss, i know you mean well. Just use your heart ok?" Ocelot humbly responds to Quiet's reactions about this offer.

It is then a certain sound buzzes over the base. "Looks like the Boss is back. Alright, I'll go work over the details. Be back soon" with that Ocelot brings Venom up to speed. Including details about Quiet's conditioning, her trust, and leaving it up to him to decide on taking her along missions.

Quiet feels a bit more positive every time she sees Venom. Something about him makes her feel all is right in the world, even though it feels likes its upside own most of the time. "He is not the like the rest, hm I like this feeling". It is then she is able to sleep, the dream carries her mind to a far off place.

A place of peace, warmth, love, appreciation for life, there is no unhappiness, no negativity. If only this would exist, oh the dream would be wonderful, someday. None of those bad things that her past was filled with, but positive energy, the world would be a better place. Only a dream she thinks, its when she wakes up, her new partner is there waiting for her to wake up.
"Hey sleeping beauty, ready to head out? Let's grab some grub first, can't go out on an empty stomach". It is then Quiet smiles back to this leader, a legend, a human being with a heart.
Kindness is earned, not simply given. But somehow she feels relieved being beside this individual, something about him is different. He does not put err's on, there is no fakery, no shadows, just pure honesty. It may rub others the wrong way seeing them walking side by side, but it doesn't bug her, but makes her feel stronger knowing that she can trust another.

She thinks back to that night, her assignment was to take down Big Boss. That was a mistake.
Why can't i go back and undo that night. She questions sometimes. Where her heart and mind are now, its a different time, place, and atmosphere. The past has already been written, the present is still yet to unfold. This Outer Heaven, its for those who want a second chance. If only the other members saw it the same way. Whatever happened during GZ, fingers were pointed, XOF was to blame, Cipher is everywhere. Quiet longed for the day, it all goes away, peace not just a word, but an action where the seas would calm and humanity would be as one, no more bloodshed, no need for guns, no need for heroes or villains.

But evil always corrupts good things, manipulating it to do what it wants. Conforming it to become something else, a monster. If only the outside world could see thing the way she did. It would not feel the same anymore. She ponders what the other members think of her stay here means. Permanent? Temporary? Or just a spy? She hopes no one blames her for anymore wrongdoing, she wants to start over, a fresh start. If they could have that, why couldn't she? Is it because of her abilities? Is that makes her a freak in their eyes?

"Don't worry about them, they just don't understand you yet" Venom replies. Knowing that all eyes are directed towards this new member of their team. "After the save, I owe a debt to you" "Okay, I want you on our team because I trust you" "I know you'll have my back, and I yours" "Are you up for it?" Venom does the gesture towards Quiet.
She has a flashback... the Boss did that... she does it right back in his direction.
"Good we have an understanding"

It is early morning, and the sun begins to creep over the ocean floor. Quiet looks at the horizon wondering where this journey may lead next. But can't help admire the good company, and food for a change, its nice. Maybe that dream might become a reality after all.



QZT Episode III
Thinking Back

Before the nightmares, and the unrivaled actions of her former commanding officer. Quiet lead a normal life, as someone with her abilities (before the parasite) could. Going on an expedition across mountains, vast oceans, exploring hidden sights not many have ever laid eyes upon, to absorbing a vast array of cultures.

Although most of the things she might recall is battles she's been involved in. Or Ops that tested every bit of her patience, especially when some intel was forthcoming and nearly injured or killed to a lesser degree. She did the best she could then, and now.

But no, she wasn't thinking about the bad stuff, but the peace she found. And right now, enjoying a meal with Venom Snake felt like a humbling experience she hasn't had in a long while.

Of all the places she's seen or explored, never did she expect to be part of a mother base in the middle of the ocean. Time seems to flow freely, as if nothing gets in the way. Well except for the oggling part that some give her, it comes with the territory. They ask why she's afraid to speak, or treat her like an outsider. And the stuff spray painted on her cell walkway. It may be self expression, but she was called worse before. Its nothing new really, but ever since she's gained these gifts, she was never seen the same way as others.

There was a time she took off, just to explore a vast land. At first it was part of open territory at one time, vast fields, various plants and animals on the ground, and flying above in the sky. It felt like a whole nother world. It was until she met some of the locals, wherever she went, trying to learn their language quickly by listening. And once she recognized a certain rhythm, she found herself able to speak it back to others. It was a very unusual trait that few understood. But those that did, she held meaningful conversations with young and old alike. Exploring various lands was her specialty. It beat learning new things about a country, or town versus taking another person down for a mission.

Just absorbing whatever she learned, it made her feel whole. And if there was an opportunity to share, she would do so in a heartbeat. Its just that, ever since the parasite that's helped heal her wounds, it also made her afraid to speak if ever again to anyone. And it broke her heart every time she wanted to say something, but couldn't because she was unsure what it would do to that person.

At one time, she visited native land, some far off in the distance away from cars, but more in tune with nature. Going her own vision quest, it helped her find what it meant to be alive. Understanding the way of things, not of death, but life, rebirth, and renewal. There was an elder couple, a medicine man and his wife (both practiced their teachings of healing and spirituality). Taking in those lessons, she learned much that helped her express what feelings were without words if need be. It only left it open to interpretation of those seeing from the outside, what it meant to them at that moment.

Of movement, motion, and belief, prayer, and understanding. All these things she took as lessons from that partnership, it gave her much to look forward to if anything were to change in her life. The "Rain Dance" it is both a prayer and song, done by the body to heaven and mother earth, and to the great spirit giving thanks for everything, creation, life and so much more. As it is sacred, only a chosen few should be given the opportunity to witness such a moment being performed by a special individual.

Quiet never felt the same after that journey in native country. It was nothing like history books or travelogue's explained, it hid many things like a puzzle waiting to be unearthed. Although it held many secrets, she was thankful to learn so much that it would enrich her life and maybe someone else down the line.

How many words define who we truly are? Looking over the meal, a meal with another person. It means everything, to see the other person smile. And just ponder what they must be thinking. Venom asks if she wants anything to drink. She nods no. Hmm question and answer, if only more people understood what it meant to communicate.

So far, all she's experienced during her stay was yelling, no kind words, just a negative experience. But a few folks here have at least some positive thoughts on how to treat another human with compassion, Ocelot and Venom Snake. Who would have thought, two legends in their own right seeing this lady as an equal. Not just an equal, but an ally, someone who has their back if need be. And she would be right there for them in a heartbeat.

With it being early morning, the sun was just hovering above the open water. Can't help but watch the current change, it shifted with colors evaporating, as if it was touching everything it moved across. Thoughts just running through her mind on what she had to do today. But she took a breath, and a gulp of food and some water. She was fine. A-ok, just peachy. All the negativity just seems to fade away. "I wish it could stay this way forever" she asks her conscience.



QZT part 4
Work in Progress

"Life on the Base"
After sometime adjusting to base life (and being locked up). Quiet kept to herself most of the time. In another story, she was visited by a nightmarish Kaz, but a kind Ocelot. Its very rare she gets visitors, or leaves the base with all eyes on her. Sure it may be her attire, or "take no bullshit" attitude.

On the plus side, she has a bed, blanket, mattress. Plus a music playlist that she never gets tired of, but she's not quite sure where the music is coming from. Is it behind the wall? A built in speaker? Since she can't explore no further than the lining of her cell, a brisk walk around, shower if need be to refuel. And think.. lots of thinking.
(that's the daytime) when Snake doesn't take her on missions.. well for the time being she's grounded) okay that sounds silly, but they have their rules on outsiders.

*okay lets lighten the mood, she does stick out her tongue at people she does not like

(at night?)
Is it active? Is it a party? Um well, kinda. With the music in party mode, at least it would be nice to have room to dance. At least on Saturday nights. But no dance partner sadly.
Plus its been sometime since Ocelot and Venom visited her comfy home here.
"I wonder what they think of me? Probably a freak, a troublemaker.. hmph. A pain the butt. blah blah blah"

So as the sun goes down, the moon rises. Its the night patrol.
"Great.. more fun people."
But they're not to talk to, more like ignore. Since its the night bunch that made those yucky signs that hang outside her cell.

From time to the time that angry guy with shades gruntly approaches. Pouts, has angry face, cusses alot. Ocelot, greets with a friendly smile, asks whats new. And speaks his mind.
"I wonder if Venom might visit someday" *she scribbles on the notepad Ocelot gave her awhile back.
"Hmm, I may just ask him, he's been busy though. So I'm sorry he hasn't been by" Ocelot calmly responds.
"Speak of the devil, here he is".. the chopper hovers down on the pad.
And the kind cowboy walks up to the leader of this fun place.
"Say, the lil lady has been pretty lonely, why not go talk to her for a bit?" Ocelot asks his partner in crime.
"I think I got a bit of time, let me take a shower first" Venom answers.
"Alright, I will go let her know. And thanks."
"No problem."

Ocelot heads back down to talk with Quiet.
"Said he'll drop by in a bit, but he's gotta shower first."
Quiet gives a smile
"Now that I have not seen from you before. Its looks great on you. I am sure he will appreciate it."
"Btw if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask me or Snake. Got it?"
Quiet nods.
"Ah the man of the hour. Ok boss, she's all yours"
"Hey uh Ocelot, easy on those words, I don't want her to get the wrong idea about me"
"The ladies love you sir" (coughs) *a set of female DD members is outside.. like a bunch of fangirls waiting for a rock band to get out of their performance.
"With that said, have a pleasant visit. I will bring some chow down. Just give me a holler."

Quiet sits on the bed, waiting for Snake to walk down the steps.
Step, step. And there he is. The man approaches the bars. And kneels.
"Sorry things have been awkward about this place. Honestly, we have never had anyone like you before. So please understand, its for our crew's protection. But I'd rather let you out.."
Quite has happy tears on her face.
"I uh, hm do have a key. (coughs) ok I took it. So shall we walk around a bit? I'm sure you'll want to stretch, get those muscles moving"
With that said, cell door open. Quiet nods to the kind fellow for letting her out for a bit.
"By the way we have your gear set aside just in case. So if need be, its there."

So the two characters leave this unhappy spot. And venture outside, where its.. um not claustrophobic for a change. Quiet puts her arms up in the air and stretches..
"much better? yeah?"
Quiet nods. And gets her bearings, being in that cell for so long.
"I am so sorry that things are this way. Tell you what, its going to get better."
Quiet writes down a question
<reads> "Oh, you want to head out there next time? Sure. We can work it out, but make sure no one sees you okay?"
Ocelot over radio, "Uh, Snake, did you do what I think you did?"
Venom, "pardon me".. answers radio "uh huh"
Ocelot, "you know Kaz is gonna flip right?"
Venom, "I really don't care what he thinks lately, he's grumpy all the time"
Ocelot, "haha you're not kidding, alright, we'll keep this on the down low"
Venom, "thank you" *click
"Now where were we? Ok, here's the tour. So this is the medical bay. For sick, injured, medicine, whatever the need may be."
"And in the far off distance is our Zoo Habitat for various animals. We're working with a third party to find them a new place to call home. I think you might want to check it out sometime."
Quite looks at Venom with a smile on her face. "I will take that as a yes".
"R&D Research and Development, the place we get to make our cool toys and gear. Quarantine, in case we run into any sicknesses along the way. Combat Support, for our home base and away teams. Nice digs huh?"

Quiet notices the vehicle sitting there <writes in her pad> can we ride to the other bases?
"Sure, sure. Just let me know where you want to go. Just ignore their glance, these people are just doing there jobs."
(jots down something..) So you don't feel weird about having me here?
"Not at all, actually we've been trying to get the finishing touches done. I thought about setting up some quarters for you.."
Quiet's left eyebrow twitches..
"to bunk in, instead of that cell, you are part of our team after all. I don't get Kaz at all. He hates everyone"
She jots down another note... "so if i am part of the team, think they might trust me?"
"I would stake my life on it. Like that day you saved my bacon from that jet."
Another note <scribble scribble> And you have my word bond, no harm will come to anyone.
But if someone hurts you, I will watch your back. That is a promise.
"Understood" Venom feels a bit reassured about this lady after all. He gave it some thought first. But now, he thinks that it may be time to welcome her into the fold after all.

Until a blaring horn is heard over the bases. "Big Boss you are being called up to the chopper for pickup, we gotta go rescue some folks!"
*Over the radio "be right there! over and out" *click
"I apologize ma'am, but we gotta skedaddle. Wanna come with? Your gear is here anyways."
Quiet nods in approval.
"Ok here we go!"
Venom revs the engine a bit, to keep it from getting too jumpy.
Quiet starts to enjoy Venom's driving
But the trip is cut short, since they arrive near the launchpad.
And so the two move close to the helicopter
"psst, go invisible till we get close enough ok?"
Quiet fades out, and runs toward the vehicle after Venom hops in.
Getting close, she hops on toward the handle bars. And finds a seat, with Venom holding the door open.

"Ok Pequod, lets fly!"
The chopper unlocks it landing gear, and moves upward. Propellers moving as fast as hummingbird wings.
It is a starry night sky touching the mother base. Quiet looks out the window and admires how everything feels from far away.
"Haven't been near the ocean like this?"
Quiet shakes her head no. But she writes down <I have been to a few beaches, but not this much water>
"Now that is a neat idea. Hmm if we find some nice spots, say we might visit. Sounds good?"
*scribble < I would like that>
"Ok, you got it. Um but we don't tell anyone. Um right Pequod?"
"What's that? I heard nothing. I swear."
*on the chopper radio, bzzt "This is Kaz, report came in about several unfriendlies, said that there is some valuable intel within a few clicks of the LZ. Over"
Pequod "aye aye, sir"
As the chopper flew by various landscapes, Venom and Quiet admired the scenery.
"There is a chance of sandstorms, maybe a windstorm, and a case of hayfever. Watch your self out there!"
The chopper came to an abrupt, but gentle stop.
Venom and Quiet grabbed their gear, and hopped out of the vehicle and touched the Earth.
"Welcome back to Afghanistan" Venom tells Quiet.


"That Sinking Feeling"
Sometimes at night, Quiet has flashbacks of the night the original mother base fell to the waters. It feels like it was just a few minutes ago. Closing her eyes, she feels her surroundings, a slight breeze, or the sound of a wolf howling. Making camp for the night was fun on its own. But being out here again, it gave her some perspective on how far she's come since back then.

Her XOF days were long past her, but they felt like dark reminders of what she used to be. A shadow for hire, anytime a job called for someone, they turned to her. Supervisor's were cold and unfeeling towards anyone but themselves. But some of her memory is a bit fuzzy, since the parasite has become more attuned with her body and mind. It is actually helping her re-connect missing dots whenever she sleeps.

She thinks back to a previous mission, she had to run solo. It was against the Soviets... it went something like this..

(sometime) before her battle with Venom Snake.
Following some rumors, Quiet found herself in a unknown part of the region. Thankfully getting used to her new abilities, they have come in handy to find high elevated terrain to pinpoint what's ahead, and far out of reach. The downside, is getting close enough to not spook anyone.

Speed, finesse, teleportation?!, and increased stamina. However she moved, it felt like her heart was racing, but at a comfy rate where it wouldn't detract her focus. It was all in the moment, hers, to feel the earth's waves slow down and catch her. Its like watching an eagle in mid-flight, the wings seem to anchor its body, the flow of its feathers, as it talons perch to a perfect position ready to dive. Something like that..

As for the "wings" she felt their wrapping around her body as she catapulted high into the air.
They gave the illusion of "butterfly wings" beautiful as she was deadly. She felt them, it was as if a part of her energy gave them life, and once they moved giving her enough girth to be airborne, soaring into the sky, and landing ever so silently. Those lacy wings even appeared when she was on the ground, ready to boost her movements dashing forward. Its insane how much propulsion her body actually felt with every adjustment. Even running on water..

Gathering enough spots to perch from, she found a few hiding markers. Thankfully the animals within this vast range were unique, and didn't mind her being nearby. Till her parasite kicked in, and her face changed its hue, it burned every time it was so intense it didn't matter unless she was focused. Her eyes shifted to a radius where they focus on a spot, no telling how far it was with her sniper rifle scope delivering a sharp contrast like a camera.

Listening, she hears some voices some distance away.. speaking russian?
Solider A (probably some goofball with a rifle) "hey I nailed your girlfriend last night!" (a translator, his dialect is different)
Soldier B "wait what!? say that again! (in broken english)

A bit further past some trees...
Soldier C "We lost supplies!? What the f*** is going on out there!?
Soldier D "Sorry sir, we were hijacked by some weirdos in masks, I swear."
C "Okay, but do not let us down. Or you know how this ends"
D"gulp"

Quiet thinks to herself "seriously this is weird, what are they up to out here?"
Looking around... there's nothing to.. huh what's that?

A truck, possibly a pickup with a tailgate, looks like generators.. tons of em.
The vehicle is revving like its about to give its last breath.
*Quiet dashes on ahead, trying not to lose track of the truck. Zipping past a few hills, and some trees, the landscape is a very odd alien terrain. Like its from Star Trek..

Back to the truck, looks like it has company. A convoy follows along, 4 trucks carrying the same amount of supplies. Weird thing is, they all lead to some power plant.

And suddenly a sight target light comes out of nowhere!
"Aw shit.." Quiet avoids the gunfire, ducks down past some rocks nearby.
"Time to make a move..."zipping past the vehicles, leaving a dust cloud.

The truck drivers don't notice a thing.
Still in motion, she holds her breath, hoping to sneak past any gunfire. !ZIP! BANG! CLANG! PEW! "F***! They are getting too close, ok time to lose em!" So she hops on the back of one of the trucks in the convoy. Opens the back window. "Oh hey there, mind if I drive?"
*So with that said, she puts them in a choke hold, pushes them aside, then takes the wheel.
**Aw crap.. I suck at driving...
With enough practice, she gets the vehicle under control but bumpy. "ow ow ow, this seat sucks" (many bumps later..)
"Hey you driver in front!? what the hell is going on!?"
**a mild mannered quiet gives them the finger..
*on the radio <bzzt> drivers we have an intruder, go to plan b now!

Thankfully the destination isn't too far away. "Aw this is no fun"
Sadly the convoy stops the vehicles with their brakes. "Screech!" "God give those things oil.. ow my head". So with that, she stops hers, and teleports out of sight.
"You crazy one! we fire now!" (something really offensive i am sure) and the entourage gears up for battle.
Quiet sneaks by, slides on the ground and kicks their guns out of their hands. And delivers a lovely kick to a lower region known to cause pain. One by one they all go down, without a bullet fired.
"****!?!"

Back to our sniper rival.. off in the distance they were on a tower. Quiet focuses her eyes on high terrain within this power plant. And notices a chopper with a familiar ass.. er Skull Face. Looks like he's brought company. An armada of helicopters enter the vicinity.  "Ok I so can't stay here.." notices a nice cliffside. "aha.. there we go". With a hop, skip and a jump.. she vaults to her new perch.

Counting one, two, three, four.. "Seriously how many goons does this guy hire?" From the outset they are all Soviet soldiers, but with more gear padding in case of battle. Going through her gear, she finds some tranqs "aw my new goodies, been wanting to try you out, ok here we go". Finding their open spots, their melon was not tricky. Just wearing hats. "nighty, night".

Setting her rifle on her back, she heads down to the lower level. Thankfully her boots can handle everything. Riding down, and leaving no trace except a couple of  pebbles rolling down the hill. Dashing towards the power plant, trying to get closer to figure out what these folks are up to.

Some sentry (inept) guards just moseying.. so she sneaks up behind them and asks politely. <in Russian> but when she spoke, her parasite reacted in a strange way saying "go ahead!"
"What is that man doing here? And what's with the generators! Tell me or I gut you like a fish"
"I hate fish! hey urk!? Um man, skull make trade, gen are for power. All I know.. please don't kill me"
(no kill just sleeper hold).. and puts the guard into a locker.
Thankfully only a few of these bozos watching the premises. Sneaking up on goofball 2 and 3, snags keys, and just knocks the other guy out and tosses him in a garbage can.

"The hideout damn the villain!" (uh ahem..) Quiet sneaks up past the buildings with some nice hideaways for goodies. "oh what's this a cassette tape?"  *Yoink!

With Skull Face, he loves to be theatrical. But Quiet spots an odd guest.. "is that Huey? what's he doing here?" She tries to move closer to listen in..

Skull with his bravado voice "Dr. Emmerich, this base will be your new headquarters. Whatever you need we have right here!
Huey with a frown, "I hate this place already, I know this is not going to end well"
Skull "Already complaining? Tsk tsk. Come now you should know the drill. We have brought your masterpiece here as well"
Huey, "wait how did you? I didn't authorize it to be mobile!"
Skull "ahh but that's it! we brought it in via those utlity vehicles.. I don't get it where's our generators! Its dark like Bruce Wayne's cave down here!"

Quiet thinks to herself "hmm so that's what they were tailing those gens for. Great another giant robot. Nice going doc." Not far off, the band of vehicles are towed in with the generators dropped off.

Skull "ah let there be.. light" *click.. the underground tunnel is lit (after some setup later)
Huey "I will not finish this thing, and cause havoc on the world!"
Skull "oh but doctor... you have no choice, otherwise we will..' "huh what's that?"

Quiet sets her marker on Skull's head.. *click.. barely touching the trigg..
An elite unit makes a sweep of the area. From afar one of the guards is also brandishing a rifle, hopefully with non-lethal means. "fudge"
They don't play nice, but bring out batons and start gunning for Quiet's position. Must have been something they had sprayed those trucks with. It left a weird scent. Quiet tries to wipe it off.. no good. "what are these guys bloodhounds?"

Close enough, but the Ghost unit. They too have the ability to teleport from one place to  another. She tries to outrun them. Zip here, zip there. Moving in a blink of an eye, they clock every move she makes'. Then she tries to take one of them on, grappling them from behind, and locking their gun so they can't use it. Trying to put them in a hold, except their body changes texture and color. "Frack!" One of the guards arms swings Quiet's body far away.
Getting up, taking a leap, she tries to vault over their heads, knowing its their weak point. She snaps their neck with a good hold, until a *click* with a *snap* and a thud goes their body.

One by one, they each approach her from around the area. No one fires a gun shot. She grabs the next goons gun, out of its holster and throws it at their legs, the body leaves the ground and she uses her legs to wrap around their head before hitting the ground. *SNAP!*

Grabbing a helmet, she makes a dash for the next goon, taking a running leap, and smashing the helmet in their face. Watching it break, she times her landing carefully swinging around in mid-air to land her palms on this monster's neck. Hangin on for a brief second, she takes one more *crack* and the body just wriggles to the ground. Taking a sign of victory, she leaps back and lands on her feet.

Noticing that Skull and Huey were watching...
Skull "Bravo lady, you were once on my team yes? Where was that fire on that man? Why show yourself here and now?"
Huey "Run get out of here!"
Quiet hears the pounding of boots on the ground.. she recalls something Ocelot said back on the chopper ride.
"What you've gotta do is find intel about the missing members from mother base" (Ocelot shows Quiet photos of the missing teammates) "Know them, study them, its the only ones we have on file".
Back to present time, she tries to move away from being spotted by any more goons.
The boots get closer.. *thump thump thump* its like an army of ants
Another member of this ghost unit appears out of nowhere "No! you no leave!"
Quiet barely has a moment to think, but this new guy appeared of nowhere.
As do a band of female snipers.. "wait how did they?" before she can move she feels a tranq dart graze her body.. "aw nuts"

Skull "well done, so much for this lady. So much trouble, yet enough vigor to take on moi?"
Huey "Why do such a thing?"
Skull "oh you know power, it corrupts all"
Huey "no i don't want to know, you are insane"
Skull "doctor, this lady was sent here to take me down, you saw what my team can do. Imagine them on the battlefield. It was thanks to that parasite from that lost place"
Huey "I will never make anyone more monsters"
Skull "oh but you already are.."

Although Quiet may be out taking a nap, she can still listen to her surroundings. Recalling the base, by detail and what was inside.

Back to present day. Venom gently bumps Quiet's right shoulder.
"Remember something princess?"
Quiet looks at Venom sheepishly
"Just kidding, where did you go?"
*scribble "memories" "skull" and "huey"
"Hmm good memory, ok let's go check this place out"

The other part of the memory she recalls is being interrogated by Skull's goon armada. Being dunked into a pool of water, seeing if she would choke or drown if her lungs filled with water. She went into a calm state of mind in that moment, breathing lightly. Concentrated breaths as to not lose all air.

Soviet guards pull her for questions, forcing some questionable motives.
Knowing they were holding her a certain way, she adjusts her legs to balance her body. Latches on and swings around, tossing her guard down to the ground. Others approach, she tosses some tools at them, takes a sleep grenade and tosses it. Dashing out the door.

<back to present time>
Venom checks on her again "you okay? Are you sure you're up for this?
Quiet nods.
Venom asks "blackouts?"
Quiet looks down not happy to answer.
"We'll get them back for what they did you back then! Plus we'll get Huey, I promise" Venom responds in a kind tone.
Quiet responds with a smile. Happy to have an ally. Even though her memories are a bit fuzzy. "Would he still feel the same knowing that this "ghost" unit were people she knew in the past?"


"Call Me, Call Me"
Venom and Quiet went on recon across the challenging terrain, both high and low ground. Traversing different camps that these Soviet soldiers have setup for miles apart. It felt like a bunch of crows waiting to take something from the dead.  Quiet vaults over a high place, looking over the various camps, she signals Venom to move on ahead.

Venom spots 5 guards, Quiet sets up her tranq darts. 5 shots fired. "pew, pew, pew, pew, pew.." Signals "all clear". Venom moves in until he spots a port-o-pottie. And someone gets out. Getting in close he sneaks up behind them. <in russian> "Tell me where your base is!? How many more spots like this are there?"
"Urk! You Big Boss!? Base we no have, spots many!" I know nothing I swear"
Venom puts the guard in a choke hold. "sleep" the body flumps over, and he shoots them in the butt. And shuts the bathroom door.

On the radio, he hears Quiet humming. More goons are on the way from far out, a recon team. But with the sun going down, the landscape is going to be different. As the group moves in closer, running across the grassy plain, Quiet reloads her ammo. Counting three, she hums a note each time, after each shot. All is silent.

Venom hops onto a nearby vehicle, an all terrain jeep. Thankfully it has gas, and is ready to go. Quiet gives the "all clear" thumbs up. Venom starts it up, and punches the accelerator. From a distance, Quiet looks over the massive area left to cover. Venom tells her to move on ahead, so she leaves her lookout spot, and zips across the ground. Moving farther away, she feels something different about the ground. "them, the ones who cover!" her parasite hums in her mind. "shit not now.."

Finding a hiding spot, she marks how many heartbeats she felt while getting her bearings in this place. 3, 3 unknown beats. They felt empty, not like a normal heartbeat. Slowed down to a crawl, as if in meditation, yet active.

Quiet and Venom worked out a signal system while on the chopper on the way here.
"So this is how it goes, any time you spot an enemy from a distance, 1 clicks spotted, 0 click clear, 2 clicks mean many enemies. And I know you hum that song, so that also helps with distance."

"How do I tell him about the "Skull" unit" Quiet thinks it over. The parasite confides "we cannot speak english till we know its safe, for now we communicate best we can". She sends out 2 clicks to Venom. From afar, Venom listens to the radio. Knowing its best to get there as soon as he can. Moving on ahead, he takes the jeep to rugged terrain and parks it. Thankfully with some aid, his sniper rifle is at the ready. Quiet gives 2 clicks again to make sure that her partner heard it. "Got it. Okay here we go" lowering to the ground, they both get their marker on their enemies. As the group gets closer, dashing past the touched earth.

"What could 3 of those goons do..." Venom asks. Watching and waiting for them to get close enough. "ZIP! Bang!" the readout on the binoculars says they took minor damage. "oh what the f***!" On Quiet's side of things she repels another volley of shots, two at a time to dish enough to daze their opponent.

On the ground, the Skull golem unit listens to their surroundings as the bullets fire. They signal one to move on ahead, and the other to take on the ground. Quiet notices the one dashing to a high place "oh no do you don't!" With a flash, she leaves her spot, and skims past the ground to take on her opposing enemy before they fire a shot.

Elsewhere, Venom readies another shot at the trio's leader. "hehe, i feel no pain" says the leader. "You Big Boss! You fight me now!" The leader zips past the dirt, leaving only a trail of dust behind, and vanishes. Venom curses under his breath. "damnit now where did you go" looking around, only  a puff of smoke appears under him. Venom turns on his back, and fires a round. The team leader zips past teasing the man. Then re-appears, Venom gets up and prepares for his new enemy.  From behind, Venom feels the earth move under his feet, but these Skull characters don't move like everyone else. Listening to the motions, he turns around with a blink of an eye, the leader throws his blade at Venom, but he catches the blade handle before it makes impact. Turning it back on its wielder. "Urk! No f***ing way you can't!" "Haha gotcha!"
On the radio, Venom calls in on Quiet "how you doin lady?"
From afar, Quiet gives two clicks and a hum of her tune.
"Ok got it, on my way"

During her venture to track down the other sniper. Running against the clock before they spot Venom on the ground. She approaches silently, making sure not to disturb any ground. Like the leader she leaves a trail of dirt as if in a fog. Getting in closer, she sneaks up on them, taking their gun and dismantling it in front of their face. "Don't you dare move!"
Taking their arm, she twists it back, until it snaps. She watches them wrigglein pain. "Tsk tsk, nope you are done". Throwing a back kick, she spins delivering two blows, they try to catch her in time, but to no avail both blows land on their body, and they get thrown back. "Still up?" they both dash towards one another, several blows are made, but none connect. Quiet grabs her knife, and tries to slow her enemy down with slashes to their body. No effect, using the tranq gun that Venom put in her weapons gear, she readies a few shots. And delivers multiple rounds at her enemies head. They eventually slow down, dazed. Until.. Quiet whips out her rifle and blows their head clean off. A whiff of smoke is all that's left of where its head used to be.

Elsewhere, Venom was in the middle of rushing in when he saw what Quiet did. Still driving, until a new occupant appears on the front of his vehicle. "You Big Boss! Die now!?"
Moving the vehicle at a faster speed, he turns the steering wheel on a 360 degree motion, spinning the tires, trying to throw off this new hood ornament. Unable to hang on, the big baddie gets thrown from the jeep and lands towards a rock face, and kisses the dirt. "Hmm how did she take out that other guy?" "Oh yeah." Venom gets in close. The goon speaks "this is not over, our brothers and sisters will avenge us!"
"Oh really?" *zip zip* Venom fires a few tranq shots. And his opponent is out like a light.

Venom calls in on Quiet's radio. "Okay I got the last one, where to?" Quiet found another spot to keep a sharp eye on everything. Giving a signal to move forward. Day is fading, night is coming. During the tussle, it seems time moved alot faster than expected. Since their place they need to reach is still a great distance. Venom calls in to let Quiet know about making camp for the night. "Going to rest, up for something eat?"

Parked, Venom sets up a spot to rest. Going in his travel bag, he sets up sleeping bags, some grub, and a few other necessities. In the meantime, Quiet gets a few things needed for a fire.
"Ah good idea" Venom sees her return with needed things for firewood. "So i brought some stuff for us to munch on. Hungry?"
Quiet looks at him vaguely and thinks "I don't need to.. but alright". Quiet nods.
"Good, gotta keep each other going. Uh let's see what do I have. Aha pork n' beans, some sandwiches, a few beers, trail mix.." "and some rations"
"Pork n' beans sound good to you?" Quiet nods. So Venom gets to cooking..
In the meantime, Venom asks.. "what was with those things? Never seen them before. But our intel team back on base (and Kaz) said they knew something. How about you Quiet? You seem to have a knack for taking them down."
Quiet scribbles <I knew them long ago, when they were human. But now they are monsters, that do not belong here>
"Explains the fog" Venom looks at her with a straight face. Quiet writes down <they are called "the one who covers">
"Ah meals done, here you go" *Venom hands her a bowl. And they share the warm meal.

"I can only imagine what you've been through. Ocelot told me about that day in the hospital. But I felt that there was something about you was familiar."
Quiet is a bit shocked and humbled he would open up about it.
"It was you that night. Wearing XOF gear, but you were not on their side. Were you?"
Quiet shakes her head from side to side. Writing down *<I was sent in from someone else, but the order to X you was from Skull, and I could not do it>
"How do you feel about me now? Any different?"
<You do what you must, its your job>
"When we had that duel, I could not go through with taking your life. Kaz blared it at me, Ocelot said to spare you. I made a call, to save you, and bring you back to our side. Something about you is different from anyone I have ever met before"
<I know Kaz hates me, we met a long time ago>
"Really? Hmm no wonder why you look at him with fierce eyes. Explains alot."
"But at Ocelot its a different tone, as of respect"
"What stopped you? You could have done anything at that moment"
<I woke up, and realized my mistake>
"That is what I like about you, is honesty. I have to confess, you are a beautiful woman, but you are a mystery. All these skills, I wish I found you sooner."
<It was that night, that changed me too>
"You and me both, and I promise not to let you get in harms way. We are team. Partner."
<I like that, and yes partners> they shake on it.

"The stars are so pretty tonight, ok I'm gonna get some zzz. Good night, pretty lady".
Quiet thinks for a second, "me, for what I do? huh hm you are weird snake" Quiet smiles at the man.

During the time they try to rest, Quiet can't help but think of "what if" her life didn't turn out the way it did. The parasite whispers "it was meant to be"
"Why? Why me? I was a bad person back then, I hurt tons of people, and left bodies behind"
"That was a different you, not the one you are now, the one he sees"
"I never thought of myself that way, the word beautiful. All I can recall is emptiness"
"That's some of your memories flooding back, you were once another person alotgether. But something changed you, I will help get those memories back in due time. Now young one, please rest, for this man Snake needs you by his side".
Closing her eyes, she finally rests her heartrate, and lets her body relax.

As the moon shifts, the night feels long. Nature shifts gears, as the night owls, and other creatures come to life. Quiet's senses kick in, but she is dreaming at the same time.

Another memory unfolds... how she obtained her "Buttefly" rifle..
In the past, she was given it from "The Boss" to Eva. When she was ready to use it. For many moments she trained with an assortment of weapony, but this rifle just felt so right. Like another limb, it connected to her body in a strange way. Like a musical note, finding the right key in a song. It was not like the rest of the gear she used, it is a universal weapon. Being able to hold dual rounds, one for lethal, and the other non-lethal. Plus she could inter-change parts to make it a whole new unit. It was meant to be a device to help aid her in way or fashion, if the decision called for it. So it was a special gift to her, and never could part with it.

On the on-set, before they flew out here, she recalled a checklist from R&D that was in the jeep. It read "Quiet's gear for development. "Wow no one's ever done this before. Snake cares so much, as to give me things to help him out in this vast world. I don't what to say."
The parasite gently tells her "you care about this man, don't you?" "it is good to feel emotion, I am so sorry for what happened back then, you have held much back. But you can embrace who you are now".
"I want to, but I wish I could explain without hurting him or anyone else. I can not speak English tongue, because it could harm him".
"Ah, there is an old man that helped us become more, you will meet him one day"
"An old man? Code Talker, I met him once before, the night I was recovered and he said that the cure was you"
"You have met him, yes. Yes. I have a lucid memory while connected to you. But he never said about what you were did he?"
"No he did not, all he and Dr. Clark spoke of was the tests were inconclusive. They weren't 100% sure I would pull through. Or what side effects there might be"
"As we are one, the puzzle will be made clear"

With that said, the moon set aside, and the sun arose. It was another day yet ahead of them.
Quiet couldn't sleep, so she made some tea for the morning. And made a some oatmeal with some fruit mixed in, for her partner's wake up call.
"hmm i smell something delish, ah thank you"
Quiet offers a cup of tea.
"Thanks, did you sleep at all?"
Quiet nods, and gestures a "small" amount.
"At least some rest, I don't know what we will face out there today. Say I owe you a ride, we'll drive together, I know you can zip out and be somewhere else in a heartbeat."
After a hearty breakfast, they put their camping gear away. And hop in the vehicle.
Venom checks his idroid "bzzt, hey Boss, new intel came in from our team, the map should have the new data on where to find Huey"
IDroid speaks back "Map info updated" "New locations uploaded to map interface"
"Godpseed to you both, by how's the lady working out as a partner?"
"Just fine, thanks. How are things back at base?"
"Well, to be honest, Kaz and I had a discussion about our new ally"
"And?"
"And it went sorta well, you know how he is bitching and moaning about things he doesn't agree with. Unless he has it his way, or nothing at all"
"Sounds like the Kaz we all know and love, or despise."
"Can't disagree, I sent the audio files so you can listen to them later"
IDroid response "audio files now added to database"
"Thanks Ocelot, I will be sure to listen to them..."
"Actually you might want to right now, just in case"
"Okay, will do"

<bzzt> *click whirr...
*in some part of the base, lots of noise is transparent, seagulls flying by, and some of the DD members talking near the outside walls.
But a discussion is happening nearby. The tape picks up audio from Kaz and Ocelot.
"Grr, why did you both let her out of her cage! She is the enemy!" Kaz barks
"Sir, I won't lie, I saw the determination in her eyes. She wants to work with him" Ocelot responds
"No buts about it, she is a prisoner of war, and we should treat her rightly so" Kaz again raises a flag.
"Kaz, you need to chill out, out there she has his back, and he has hers. I can read that from her expressions whenever she sees the man." Ocelot replies with determination.
"She is not one of us, nor ever will be" Kaz again interweaves his words
"I don't see you out there fighitng by Snake's side. Who are you bullshitting!?" Ocelot barks back
"Calling my shit!? What are you, a spy?"Kaz says with a sneer
"Fuck you, you know what you did to us. You are in contempt as much as any outsider" Ocelot is unwavered to find out what makes Kaz so darn angry.
"I did nothing, but I am here as a leader. I found my reason to live"
"You told him to leave the lady behind that day. Why?"
"She is an outsider, not to be trusted" Kaz is unwavered in any emotion, like a blank chalkboard.
"You and her have history don't you? I've heard things, bad blood. It makes sense why she made her choice" Ocelot calms down
"We are on the same side, stop treating everyone like your enemy" Ocelot cracks
<bzzt> tape stops

"Sorry Snake, Kaz and I are not getting along too well. But we do our best not to bite each other's head off. I am glad you have Quiet with you. I would not want to imagine what Kaz would do if she were here" Ocelot concludes after the voice data stops playing.
"I was wondering what was going on, thanks for the heads up" Venom responds.

"I will hold the fort till you both get back, Pequod knows different spots for pickup or dropoff, whenever you are ready" Ocelot continues. "Be careful out there, both of you"

"We will" Venom clicks on the IDroid com buttons.
Quiet never felt good vibes from Kaz. He was so volatile towards anyone, even a person they called a friend. She knew of Kaz's transgressions, but he has changed so much even back then before the hospital incident. There was something not quite right with him. But she dared not to ask Venom anything, out of respect. Because she already knew the answer.

<Flashback to sometime ago - Before GZ>
Kazuhira Miller's trainee camp - on a busy morning. It was like any other day, but with the exception of a helicopter interrupting the usual routine. The chopper was marked with FOX on both sides, and a Fox Emblem right beside it. Unannounced, so who gave them this location? As the unknown bird was getting flagged down, out stepped several guests.

The man known as Skull Face, and his entourage, world leaders from the USA, London, France, Germany, Africa, Japan, and South America. This group was rarely seen outside of their homelands. But a reason brought them together, and Kaz was the unlikely scapegoat.
As Quiet happened to be among the trainees at the time.

A group of 30 students taken under his wing, to train in new styles of combat. New to some, but to others a refresher course. Quiet was part of the group by choice (thanks to co-ersion from Eva's compliments of her stature). Or most likely Eva would pull something on Kaz for not co-operating, you never mess with a lady. Period.

However, even back then she never felt comfy around Kaz's demeanor. But this group that entered their training space was beyond foreign. World leaders working together for some cause, or was it all a ruse. Eva worked a gameplan with Quiet beforehand "investigate anything that does not feel right to you, just don't get caught".

Getting her surroundings memorized, each area was a section all its own, with the headmaster office being as big as a fast food restaurant. (with all the trimmings)
It couldn't  be a taste test, even that weird guy with a hat, and mask covering his face. Moving closer, she tried to get enough concentration to hear what was going on. (thankfully nothing was in the way)

Skull Face "well friends, allies, and former enemies, we gathered here today to unveil something special. I give you the language barrier to end all confusion around the world. This will translate every word to emulate what happened to the "Tower of Babel" But know this, we built this upon a dream. Which to change the world.

*With the world leaders gathered, they felt a bit skeptical, some asking questions as foreign dignitaries would. But what's weird none of them had a translator sitting beside them. Like what's shown on tv, radio or on paper. They always have another person beside them. Not just security dogs.

Skull Face "for those with technical questions, my partner here will elaborate all of your skepticism, go ahead old man"
Code Talker coughs to clear his throat, "As my partner explained, this is the future for the world. A missing link to what humanity lost many eons ago. We have found an answer to communication. But it came at great cost."
Skull Face, "what are you doing!? this is not part of..
Code Talker, "this man, this monster forced me to lie to you people. To hide truth in secrecy, no this is not meant to help humanity, but to destroy....
Skull Face, "security escort this man out!"
Kaz was standing by, near the whole ordeal.. but what was he doing beside this creepy dude.

Kaz grabs Skull Face by the collar, "what is going on!? Cipher was meant to advertise a treaty today. What the old man said!? Was it true? Or are you pulling me down to hell again?!
Skull Face responds in kind, "tch.. no it was all part of the plan you see, all of these leaders have been implemented with those "bugs" as we would call them"
Code Talker from afar "you bastards! this was not meant to be part of us! we repsect nature not abuse it! un-hand me!"
Skull Face signals "silennce!" shut him up, now"
Several of the security members have items at the ready, and the old man goes to sleep after being stuck with a dart.
Skull Face reprises "nothing to worry, in due time the world will be one"
**but the audience is not amused.. they go in a panic and start fighting one another

Quiet grabs her radio <bzzt> "uh team something bad is going down, meet me at the headmaster office ASAP!" "Shit what now.. Looking around the area, the security team has the entire group on hold, seperating everyone involved in the dogpile. After the radio call, the other students joined in with Quiet, making a move to help out.

Words are thrown, fists are flying. But Skull Face and Kaz barely bat an eye. Until the room is silent. Skull Face gives a signal of some kind. And shadows come falling out of the sky.
Experimental camo? They wore gear, but it wasn't from a unit she was familiar with. At the second of this nightmare, she dashes to Kaz. "What is going on!? Stop this!"
"Its out of my hands lady! Get off me!" Kaz tries to get Quiet's hands away from his shirt.
"Not till you explain what you're involved in. Oh and Eva says hi"
"Mother.." Kaz stops short of a word. Quiet takes his glasses, and breaks them in half.
"That's what she told me to tell you" she looks at him with determined eyes
"Bah! I knew it something felt off. Alright you got me!"Kaz turns away.

In the meantime, the other students corral the world leaders out of harms way. Thankfully no one was badly injured, just bruised egos. Only now having to deal with a new team of baddies. Skull Face somehow disappeared. "Anyone got eyes on that weird guy?!" "nuts!"
As one disappeares, the others make their move. A group of unknown entities focus on the world leaders with laser sights. But something stops them. "Enough!"
It came from Kaz.. "Stand down, no bloodshed will be made today"
"Quiet, how could you!? gr..." Kaz shakes his fist in frustration.

On the away team, they moved all of the foreign dignitaries to a safe place till the commotion dies down.
"This is not over! Team leader one go get her!"
"Yes sir"  and vanishes

After the team recovers some breath, the entity races past obstacles and tries to find a certain someone. Pushing anyone in the way, and covering a vast distance, the shadow seems to zip and vanish into thin air. But its form is female, swift like a ninja, but just as precise. Zipping through the atmosphere as if blink and you might miss.

Several vehicles with staff arrived, corralling the foreign leaders to a safer location. But this female hunter wasn't going after them, but Quiet. Trying to find something use a weapon, she grabs a baton from the security squad. "Come on, where are you!?"
"Right here sweetie, long time no see" a shrilly voice out of nowhere appears behind her.
Quiet turns around, then the shadow leaps over her. And lands on the ground. "I am in front of you, and you can't see..."
"But i can feel around me" Quiet listens to the heartbeat in her opponents chest.  "Gotcha!"
With the baton ready, she knocks her enemy down with a blow to the knees. Then a whack on the back, then her head. "How!? *thud..

"Uh boss, the lady went silent. What do you suggest?"
"Do I really need to spell it out for you? Go!"
The other "ghost' is on standby, watching and makes their move.
Throws a punch, but it misses, Quiet slides underneath her pursuer, and delivers a blow to the crotch. And down they tumble.

Kaz on the radio "Gah how many of you does it take to pin down one woman!?" "useless!"
Quiet picks up the radio <bzzt> "hey mr. sunshine, why not be here, we can dance"
Kaz, "Grr.. I have had it with this"
With the rest of the "ghost" squad standing down. Kaz makes a move to Quiet's position.
"So its like this, after the months you've been here. And now you make a move on your instructor. How thoughtful!" Kaz barks at Quiet from a close distance.
"Been waiting for your lies to end, buddy"
A wind blows.. no one says a thing, no heart beat. Its just her vs Kaz.
With a swift motion, he comes in swingin, a left and right, then a kick. Misses but hits a few boxes nearby. Quiet ducks, leaps to a wall and runs across. Kaz keeps his eyes open for what she does next. She darts her body at Kaz, pinning him down, he pushes back, she has a hold on him by the shoulder, he kicks her off. She backflips, then moves in, Kaz guards with both arms blocking his body. To the lower extremities, she delivers a blow to his knees, he doesn't flinch.
Kaz is like a statue, taking so many blows, yet holding together. No weakspots. Kaz makes a move blocking another kick, or move with a fist. Locking Quiet in a precarious position, like a spider. Neither of them could budge. Quiet tries to break his hold, by shifting her right arm to a lower position, he notices and blocks again, holding her hand in mid-punch.

Everything stands still. "Enough!" "we can't keep this up any longer" / "you first pretty boy!"
"I am working for someone else' / "Seriously how are you triple secret agent man?!
"Draw!" / "ok, but next time" / "wait next time?" / *THWACK!

Sometime later... Quiet wakes up in some weird room. There is no one else here, but Kaz and her. "uhh where am I?" / "well lady, interrogation" / I didn't know this place existed" / "it does not, we're not at the training center anymore/

Kaz interjects with the weary lady, "so how did you find out about me?"
Quiet responds, "instinct, what happened out there?"
Kaz "I ask the questions, you answer. Got me?" "Who do you work for?"
Quiet "no one, i joined this session with honors from a regarded source"
Kaz "a source, Eva I am guessing"
Quiet "see you are getting answers, and I didn't have to get shot with truth serum" "oh wait, that tingly feeling in the back of my mouth.. ick"
Kaz "haha, I knew something about you was different. You are not afraid of anything, are you?"
Quiet "hmm nah not that I think about it no"
Kaz "oh you will be, because i am taking you into the XOF ranks. And you will do what I tell you, no questions"
Quiet "is that an offer or an order?"
Kaz "consider it your ticket, a pass to live under my eyes"
Quiet "I'm touched, you like me"
Kaz "no its.. just that you remind me of someone"
Quiet "Big Boss huh?"
Kaz responds with a look on his face "where did you hear that name?"
Quiet "Eva, of course."
Kaz "I forgot they had history back in the day, so much going it clouds my mind sometimes"
Quiet asks "so about those "ghosts" why were you giving them orders?"
Kaz responds "Skull Face gave those to me for keeping an eye out"
Quiet responds "a deal with a devil.. jeez you've changed. Eva told me lots about your past too."
Kaz "she does know alot about all of us former partners. But not everything, I am on the other end of the spectrum. The world is not ready"
Quiet looks forlorn "I don't like the sound of this"
"Once you are part of XOF, you will understand. So I want you to be my eyes from now on. We are going after him."
Quiet raises an eyebrow, "er wait, who? and can i get untied?"
Kaz lowers down to her eye level, as Quiet is tied to a chair. "mm no"
"See you at nightfall"
Quiet undoes the knot after Kaz leaves the room. Problem is, there are no doors. But a welcoming committee. "yay a private escort, but you don't seem friendly".

But before the mission... "gear up!"


"Sunrise, Moonlit Night"
<during the mission of taking down big boss by a certain XOF party>
The Man on Fire's assault takes down the chopper that Quiet rappelled from. Had she been on it still, crispy or grilled. Yikes that doesn't sound good. But being there time, her role to play was written in stone. (or Kaz) by order of Skull Face. Hard to know who to trust. However, Quiet wasn't in control of her faculties  Being drugged on the trip, her body was filled with adrenaline and other types of inhibitors that permitted an outside entity to take control of her. (like a puppet on strings)
It is when she grabs hold of Big Boss (or so she thinks), she realizes her mistake. And then the other man tossing objects grabs her attention, and she tries to fight back. Only to get burned.
Escape lead elsewhere.. maybe it was fate after all.

It is then she wakes up, it is sunrise. Right beside the legend known as "Big Boss", now going by Venom Snake. They were resting after a crazy day before. Learning that an old foe has risen, and others right beside them. Plus the "ghosts" she fought back then, also came back to haunt her, but now with more members.

Thinking over her memories, the parasite was right. When she slept more came flooding back. It felt like she was there, feeling every blow, hit, or movement. Hoping she didn't yell or scream. But it seems like all is well, Snake is a light sleeper?

Quiet digs in the goodie bag, trying to find strike flint + the coffee. Getting a morning fire started, she pours some fresh ground coffee beans into the pot. Let's it set, and Snake wakes up. "Hmm coffee, thank you.." "I noticed your reaciton to those "ghosts' last time. You know something, I wish you could be honest with me in words."
Quiet sets the coffee pot down, and writes in the notepad. <scribble>
*I fought them once before, and Kaz
Pfft** Snake spits out some of his coffee. "You did what?!"
*Kaz can't be trusted
Snake looks sheepish, like he ate bad fruit.
*In the past, he worked with XOF, a part of Cipher
Snake again looks sick. "Any more bad news I should know?"
**Those "ghosts" were people I once knew long ago. Now they are monsters
Snake takes another sip of coffee to warm his soul.
'So.. hm that's not good"
**nope, i am so sorry
"No I am for putting you through this all over again. Somehow, someway, we will get Huey out of that place. We will get before nightfall, then sneak our way in. Cardboard box style!"
Quiet looked at Snake a bit surprised. And starts to laugh.
" I am serious!" *Quiet still rolling.

Operation Box (yup here we go)
Snake had a few just in case. And he hands one to Quiet. The art of becoming one with the box is a sacred one. Plus finding a supply spot to be carried with the delivery. So the amazing duo grabbed their gear and moved towards a supply pickup site. Thankfully it wasn't far away, and does deliveries every few hours. But they found the magic hour just in time!
To the box! And with that, they became one with the box. Eventually a truck came, and picked them both up, and ventured toward the mysterious base of evil. **to help, they had to remain silent, being one with the box is utter patience.

As the journey near its end, Quiet smelled someting oddly familiar. Snake began to speak in hush volume,"Hamburgers!?" I know I smell it too" "shhh" *must resist..

Upon arrival, the two brave souls snag a burger before battle!
"My my this is delish, I wonder if Kaz knows about.."
*<scribble> yup its his recipe, Skull stole it
"I will have my revenge!" *Kaz says from far away...
"Did you hear that?"
*<scribble> nope.
(narrator) ahem where were we.. oh yeah. Um excuse me, are you two done?
*they both nod. Okay.

Back to the task at hand, the two brave souls ventured inside the base, lightly guarded.
"okay that is weird, where is everyone?" Snake ponders, checking all the rooms out.
Quiet darts ahead, and looks around if anyone is hiding. <bzzt> Click
"You too huh? Hm, where could they all be?"
Snake sneaks on, near the power box. No shadows casted, no ones home.
Until Quiet radios in.. <bzzt> click click
"Huh? Hmm looking over, Quiet is nearby the big wall with a tiny door.
"its alice in wonderland.." Snake thinks it over..

Running ahead, the pair meetup near the oddly given spot. A door on the side of a huge wall. Going on in.. a set of vehicles humm along going by.
<this scene would be the intro to Hellbound> or aka "Rescue Huey"
Afterwards, Skull and his entourage leave the spot. And move along.
Quiet looks at Snake, Snake looks at Quiet. He gives her the "signal" she darts ahead.
Getting intel by asking nicely, and knocking a few heads in later.

It appears Skull ordered from baddies are us. There are tons more goons to deal with. Snake moves in, to get a relay of the land, while Quiet spots several more. (and they have night vision goggles) "Oh joy." Moving in the shadows, thankfully the lights are not working tonight. Zipping by this goon squad was easy till. A chopper lands on the building across from Quiet's position. <bzzt> click click
Snake reacts "!" "crap not more.." "Quiet, do your thing, make em all sleepy, I will get a few on my way"
And 1,2, 3, nighty night. Snake moves in on a few with some tranq shots.
"yay I love this, and no one gets hurt" "oh yeah, gotta take care of that base"
**note that base referred to as that really tough spot where they have to outrun several bipedal gears, possibly more goons, oh and lots of lights, and Huey in that lab... <lets fast forward> or not.. Snake steals a Jeep, Quiet hops in.. vrrom off they go. Okay now fast forward.

With more rugged terrain, the night could not get worse. It starts to rain. Quiet moves on ahead, zipping past a few guards, without too much trouble. And waits for Snake to make a move. Snake looks over the vast area, hoping that he doesn't get a chill. All thoughts aside, trudging on, the pair take a few well placed zzz shots on unsuspecting characters. Once enough are down, a path is made, running as fast as he can, Snake moves at a blur of speed. Quiet watches carefully from high. Until a spotlight is turned on, moving to her direction. leaving that spot behind, she moves on ahead past some buildings with crates nearby. Looking over, she knocks a few guards out of Snake's way. But Snake runs into a few, slows down and finds cover.

"Hey what was that?!" / "C'mon let's go check it out!"
"Is that a box? / "Uh sir, there is a box walking around. What do we do?"
"What is with you nincompoops! Boxes don't walk!"
"huh?"
*meanwhile Quiet finds herself giggling

Sneaking away, Snake gets close enough to the lab, leaving his box behind. "You were my friend till the end lil buddy." Keeping a close eye, Quiet signals Snake with a thumbs up, she will provide cover fire when he gets out.
<since this is a part of the scene with dialog from Huey about the deal he made etc..>
<does Snake hop in the bipedal metal gear!? hey why not?>
Quiet watches the bizarre metal gear chicken leave the lab. Looking at the path they might take, several guards are distracted by something.
<bzzt> click click click
Snake "3 clicks!? uh Huey we gotta run man!"
Huey "this thing is suffocating me, just hurry!" (that cloth on his head)
In the far distance, Quiet heard the menacing cry of some creature. Not normal. It sounded like.
Snake "a Metal Gear!?"
Huey "yes Saleanthropus, the project I've been working, but its active!? how? It wasn't ready yet!"
Moving on, the bipedal mini-gear trudged through the vast area. Thankfully it wasn't too overly occupied. Quiet quickly dispatched any leftover goons that were on stand by.

Once the path was clear, Quiet moved on ahead from Snake's field of vision. Close enough to get picked up by..
<bzzt>  Ocelot buzzes in"Hey Snake! I called in the chopper ahead of time, just in case!"
<bzzt> This is Pequod I'm at the LZ! Ready for pickup!"
Snake talks the plan over with Huey, "how do we stop that thing?"
Huey "I don't know its armor its tough, but it has canisters on the back which provide it mobility, if those are destroyed it may cease to function"
Snake "thank for the info, we might need it"
But before they can board <insert next scene here where Skull Face's best laid plans, along with Sale (guided by the 3rd Son) make a grand entrance, and exit)
<and of course, with a bit of hide n' seek, that moment plays out, and the gang makes their getaway>
*But there is more to what happens after they get Huey out of harms way...
"That machine, it was made to be just like Peace Walker, a deterrent. I wish that they gave me more time. It was not meant to be active yet" Huey continues.
"What happens now?" Snake asks its creator
"I don't know, there was not enough room for a pilot, I learned the hard way by..."
<bzzt> Uh boss, Kaz is on the horn. "just a sec", "you wait here"
Kaz "I heard you have Huey, bring him back here, we're due for a reunion"
Snake "Why do I get the feeling there's more to this story?" "Quiet?"
Quiet writes down a few words <there is more, and you're not going to like it>
On the flight home.. Huey goes silent.
But before they give the scientist over to grumpy Kaz. "Huey, you make me a promise that we will get to the bottom of this" Snake says with hope.

=Sometime later= after Huey's interrogation
Snake walks in, "Huey, why?"
Huey, "he made me do it, that man Skull Face"
Snake looks at him forlorn. "Skull has done many horrible things. But we are gonna fight to make this a better world, and stop monsters like him from being created"
Huey responds "how? he's already got his fingers in so many pies"
Snake "Diamond Dogs we can do anything"
Huey looks at Snake with more faith "I want to believe, but Kaz is.."
Snake just shakes his head "I know"
(in the meantime during Snake's moments in the interrogation area, he left the radio on for Quiet to listen in) hoping she might catch something else going on
On the way back to Quiet's HQ, Snake checks in. "So did you hear it?"
Quiet writes down <everything, but Huey seems sincere>
"I hope so too, I want believe and trust in him"
"Been here so long, kinda forget who to turn to at times like this"
Quiet knows that all too well and sighs.
"Hey chin up, you're on our team now. Remember? The past is just that, the past."
They both look up the moon.. it feels like a calm night for once.