Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Marcus felt himself being moved, as if he were being carried. It was a weightless feeling, reminiscent of those moments when he was half-asleep in bed or being carried as a child. As he felt his face meet the cold, rubbery surface and smelled metal and rubber, his eyes cracked open. Why was he in a car, or whatever vehicle it was? He saw rubber flooring and a metallic ceiling. Sitting up, which felt more challenging than usual, he felt weak and small. Looking down at himself, he could see why. Marcus wasn't the biggest guy, but he wasn't the smallest either. Having weighed 170 lbs and played mostly baseball for most of his athletic life, it was dumbfounding, confusing, and horrifying all at once to see that his arms, body—everything he had worked so hard to build to fit into the world and excel in athletics —had transformed into that of a child's. It was impossible. Utterly impossible.

He was paralyzed with disbelief, feeling the sweat build on his brow and forehead as he stared at his hands. Why?

He looked up to notice that everything in the van was just him... and himself. Literally. It was a copy, an exact copy, as if he were staring in the mirror. Perhaps this was a dream. He curiously eyed his copy, staring at his own hazel eyes and messy brown locks of hair, trying to understand what he was looking at. Those eyes... they were almost as if he were staring into a version of himself that never lived. A boy who never tried to be masculine to fit in better and make his brothers and dad proud. A version of himself that hadn't lived twenty years of life and wasn't already jaded, utterly convinced that the world hated him simply for living, that he would never amount to anything but what he could claw and take in a weirdly fair yet unfair system of government that didn't care for its citizens but rather its own pockets. A version of himself that didn't grow up bullied in elementary school, called a freak, the kid who made himself as quiet and laconic as possible, the kid who found the athletic kids funny, who had befriended him when no one else really did and encouraged him to join them, who surprisingly didn't make fun of him (not out of ill intent at least), who invited (kidnapped) him to the gym and weight room, and encouraged him to join athletics so he could be the man he wanted to be. A boy who didn't join the art class and spend years painting subpar paintings that Mrs. Vale said were good, who didn't write poetry and aspire to be a writer to be the next Tolkien, and wasn't encouraged by the same English teacher that he pissed off every morning. A boy who wouldn't play football and suck at it, a boy who wouldn't play baseball and do just well enough to play starter for second base. A boy who wouldn't enjoy philosophy, the idea of what it meant to be masculine, who wouldn't listen to Jordan Peterson, a boy who wouldn't fall in love with fantasy, medieval and ancient history, and mythology and theology. A boy who wouldn't hardly get to live because he was hit by a fucking pickup truck.

It was then that someone, a spooky government-looking official but with no identifying tags or colors, came and opened the back doors of the van to take the Copy. Marcus watched haplessly and confused as it/he was taken to a child's playroom. Marcus was still wondering in a weird, lucid state of mind if this was a dream, what was happening, what was happening to his copy, who the secret agent was, and just what the hell was going on. Marcus could feel the van slowly but steadily wheel itself away from the scene, leaving Marcus feeling confused and delirious as all hell.

Reach. Reach was a name that Marcus found to be somewhat common in the stories he knew. Off the top of his head, he could think of Halo, A Song of Ice and Fire, and Skyrim, and maybe a few more, but he couldn't exactly remember them as well for some reason. Like a vague fog beyond the horizon. Anyways. When he heard Reach, he mostly associated it with the Fall of Reach or Remember Reach from Halo. This green-blue planet was unmistakable. It wasn't brown like he remembered it being, but it was called Reach, one of Earth's most significant colonies. It was definitely a Halo dream. Marcus had many thoughts and daydreams about being a Spartan before, but less about the child soldier part and more about how they were utter badasses that kicked alien butt and rarely died. He was now in a pair of clothes: a dark gray tank top with the number 115, dark gray pants, and boots. In a small ship, among others in similar ships, he could almost feel the ship descending onto Reach and landing upon the surface. Being forcefully escorted, or shoved, by guards, who brought them into a dark base that gave him the sense of being in an alien environment. Not of bright colors like in Star Wars, but cold, gray, and robotic. A place that seeped away at the sense of self. Minutes later, he found himself with dozens of other children, all in the same position as he was. The double doors in front of him slid open to reveal an auditorium, and he was escorted inside. He looked around, seeing that it was a similar case with all of the other children. Marcus hazarded a guess that there were about sixty, maybe more around 65 or 70, but definitely a lot of children. A woman, a very familiar, younger-looking but definitely familiar woman in a lab coat, stood before him as he took a seat.

Dr. Halsey finally began to speak, seeming to force the words out, "As per Naval Code 45812, you are hereby conscripted into the UNSC Special Project, codenamed SPARTAN-II."

No. No. This is not possible. Marcus was now struck with a cold realization that made his legs antsy and his heart feverishly hammer in his chest. The clone, the kidnapping, the space travel, the military base, Dr. Halsey. This was definitely a dream, or otherwise, it's a goddamn nightmare.

As Marcus tried to control the overwhelming anxiety and fear that was overtaking his heart, his ears and eyes focused utterly on Halsey, already knowing with how unsure of herself Halsey was, she herself had to prep up her confidence, "You have been called upon to serve. You will be trained... and you will become the best we can make of you. You will be the protectors of Earth and all her colonies," he could see how Halsey glanced at him and his shaky form, of how terribly he wanted to do something and run but steadied himself as he had done countless times before, controlling that anxiety he always felt when something big and important was happening, "This will be hard for you to understand, but you cannot return to your parents. This place will become your home," This place will become your tomb, he could practically hear Cortana finish that line and he knew how right she was.

"Your fellow trainees will be your family now," Halsey continued, "The training will be difficult, there will be a great deal of hardship on the road ahead, but I know you will all make it. Rest now; We begin tomorrow." Halsey then reoriented toward who Marcus assumed was Chief Mendez, where Marcus could hear,  "Have the children…" seeming to catch herself referring to the children as they were, before quickly amending the statement, "... the trainees escorted to their barracks. Feed them and put them to bed."

Mendez simply nodded, and Marcus remembered that he didn't appear as reluctant as Halsey or that he was simply better at controlling his emotions and body, "Yes, ma'am," before he turned to the children and their handlers, cold and commanding eyes meeting his own for a fraction of a second, "Fall out!"

Marcus rose, being compelled by his handler to stand up and march out of the auditorium, presumably to head off to the dining hall and then into the sleeping quarters.

It was tomorrow morning when he was asleep, having felt that all he had experienced was one of the rare realistically detailed dreams that you sometimes have, where he would wake up in pain, gasping for air as a stun baton was stabbed into his gut. Where he was made to exercise until he puked, to compete with other children in a rough series of contests and exercises, where he was teamed up with Sam and Kelly and John was nowhere to be found, and if he weren't up to par, no food. It is with these things that Marcus knew, this was no dream. It was his life. It was his life forever now. An utter hell. And that hell was only going to get worse.

Shepard stood atop the Crucible, bloodied and tired, yet unbroken. Clutching a side wound with her left hand, she attempted to stem the flow of blood. Her right arm hung limply, numbness spreading through the barely gripping hand holding her pistol. Red hair cut, torn, and matted with dried blood and black ash, her entire body covered in debris and an assortment of wounds. The N7 armor, once a stalwart companion through numerous missions, was now broken and torn.

With painstaking effort, Shepard walked toward the pillar of light ahead—a symbol of the end of her journey, their journey. Millennia of lives crushed and reaped by the cruel, uncaring hands of the Reapers, the eldritch machine race.

She couldn't blame EDI and the Geth, falling victim to the technophobia propaganda sown by the Reapers. Wanting a happy ending for EDI and Legion, a testament to the friendship between synthetic and organic races, she refused to let their efforts be in vain, especially after Legion's sacrifice.

Her painful trek concluded as Commander Jane Shepard threw herself into the pillar of light. Her body slowly dissolved, initiating the synthesis of organic and synthetic life.

Her final thoughts lingered on her crew, her family and friends, Earth, and the galaxy they saved together. The fight had ended for her; it now rested upon them and the following generations.

'This is the good end,' Jane thought as the light enveloped her, darkness embracing her form.

The light receded, and her eyes blurry blinked open to the grey ceiling of some room. Looking around the room, it was similar to her Captain's Quarters back on the Normandy. Being a blend of the military function over comfort and her own personal touches, the room was bathed in soft ambient glow, featuring the stark Alliance colors complemented by mementos and decorations.

"What the hell," she muttered. Her brows furrowed as she sat up, 'is this supposed to be Heaven?'

Jane carefully made her way out of the silken sheets, pushing the covers off of her, only than realizing that she was naked and that the bed wasn't the twin single of her cabin. It was large, probably a queen.

Standing butt naked in the room, she didn't feel the cold like she would have guessed. Rather it was right, not to cold, not to hot, but rather feeling just right.

She walked exploring the larger room better now.

It definitely was like her Quarters on the Normady. The bed, no longer the twin single pushed up agaisnt the wall, but rather a queen bed with it's head at the center most point of the wall and opposite of the door. There was a large military locker, a desk displaying a holographic interface, and on the opposite side of the room were shelves displaying all the souvenirs she's picked up from across the galaxy.

Making her way to the locker and opening it, she was supised to see rather then her few meager sets of clothes and single pair of armor, but rather a whole damn armory.

"Holy shit," she muttered, her eyes widened and she was caught of gaurd. "Want to go to Narnia, Jane? No thanks Lucy, I got a little world of my own."

As she stepped inside to explore the armory/closet, she hummed an Old Earth song to herself, 'a world of imagination~'. Her not so little locker was organized chaos, having sets of clothes on hangers or in drawers, rifles, shotguns, pistols, and other weapons meticulously arranged on racks, an array of armored suits she's used and collected in the past. Overhead, the ambient lights casted a stark glow on everything in here.

Finding her Allaince uniform and deftly sliding back into her familiar clothes, she meticulously donned her N7 armor. The metallic plates interlocked seamlessly. She fastened the last buckle, stomped her leg on the metal floor. It felt right.

A M-96 Mattock, Geth Plasma Shotgun, M-9 Tempest, M-98 Widow, strapped onto her back, and an M-5 Phalanx in hand, she walked back into the room and up to the door. She put her ear against it. Nothing. She didn't hear anything. "Ok then," she muttered. With a tap of her omni-tool, the door slid open, revealing a familiar face.

"Miranda?" Jane's voice was a mix of shock and disbelief. Without hesitation, she stepped forward, wrapping her arms around her old friend in a tight embrace. Miranda stiffened for a moment before returning the gesture. After about five seconds, they let go, and Jane studied Miranda's face, which betrayed a mixture of disbelief and sadness.

"So... I guess that I'm really dead, aren't I?" Shepard's voice was soft, almost hesitant.

"The last time I saw you, we were on the Citadel. I was saying goodbye," Miranda replied, her tone equally uncertain. "Did we lose? Did the Reapers win?"

"No, we won. The Crucible worked, the Reapers won't be hurting anyone anymore. And if my gambit paid off, no synthetic life will ever come into conflict with organics again."

Miranda hesitated, her usual composed demeanor faltering, "I never doubted your capabilities."

Shepard grinned, a hint of her usual sarcasm creeping into her voice. "Aw, what's this? The ice queen admitting my superior talent? It's about time. I'm the best damn Spectre the galaxy has ever seen. And now, this Spectre could use some R&R. This isn't Earth or the Citadel, is it?" She glanced around, taking in their surroundings. They were in an Old Earth hallway. Textured wallpaper, polished wooden floor, fluorescent ceiling lights, wooden doors and art pieces decorating the walls. A place even closely reminiscent to anything that Jane has seen was her old country home back on Mindoir. At the end of the hall opposite of her and Mirandy were two girls: one in a red cloak with black hair and silver eyes, and the in white with an ice queen aesthetic, and were clinging onto eachother with tears in thier eyes, seeming to be just as emotional reunion as she and Mims.

Miranda shook her head, pulling Shepard farther away into the hall to be more alone, "I'm not sure. But this... this isn't right. Shepard, I don't... I don't think we're exactly alive... I remember..."

"Yeah, I... died at the Crucible, and now I'm here?"

Miranda nodded, her expression grave, "I don't understand it either. I was... shot. I remember the pain, the light closing in. But now... I'm here."

Shepard placed a hand on Miranda's shoulder, her expression determined, "We need to figure out what's going on. There must be a reason we're here. Any idea how we got here?"

Miranda shook her head, "None. One moment I was... dying, and the next, I woke up here. It's as if... as cheesy as it sounds, it seems like we have a second chance of sorts."

Shepard nodded, her jaw set, "Then we'll make the most of it. Let's explore this place, see if we can find any clues. Maybe there's someone here who can explain all this."

Miranda smiled faintly, a hint of her usual confidence returning, "Agreed. We'll get to the bottom of this, Shepard. Together."

Shepard looked over to the two girls, who have separated now but were speaking to eachother in hisllh tones. She weighed the options in her mind, glanced at Miranda who gave a small nod, and she cleared her throat but was interrupted as another one of the doorways opened, an attractive and youthful looking young woman, dressed casually in a white tank top and blue jeans. Her long, coral-brown hair was styled in a high ponytail with a large white bow, and her posture seemed somewhat slouched, like a grieving child. The girl's sharp and weary gaze moved traced over the hallway and the four in the hallway in befuddlement, wincing, her voice timid yet curious, "Um, hi. What's going on here?"

"That's an excellent question," Jane Shepard replied, her tone casual despite their unusual circumstances. "Personally, I had recently just kicked the bucket and found myself here." She gestured around, indicating the mansion and their inexplicable presence there.

Red chimed in, her voice carrying a hint of resignation. "Yeah, that sounds pretty familiar. We kinda... failed. Hard. And the next thing I know, I woke up in my bedroom from at patch."

"Well, Red, nice to meet you," Jane said with a slight smirk. "The name's Jane Shepard. I'm a Commander in the Systems Alliance and the first human Spectre of the Citadel Council, and this is my former..." She paused, correcting herself, "my CO and crewmate, Miranda Lawson."

"Hello, pleased to meet you," Miranda greeted, nodding politely.

"I'm Ruby Rose, leader of Team RWBY," Ruby introduced herself. "It's nice to meet you guys."

Weiss Schnee, poised and elegant, spoke next, "I am Weiss Schnee, a Huntress of Team RWBY and this dolt's partner," she said, pointing a thumb at Ruby. "It's pleasant to meet you all." She curtsied gracefully.

Monika straightened herself, her warm smile inviting, "My name is Monika."

Weiss raised an eyebrow, "No surname?"

"No," Monika replied softly. "Just Monika." Her chuckle sounded hollow to Jane's ears.

"Is everything alright?" Jane asked, noticing the distant look in Monika's eyes.

"Yes, I was just reminded of an... inside joke," Monika replied, her gaze still distant and forlorn.

"Well, does anyone know how we got here? Let alone where 'here' is?" Miranda interjected, breaking the somber moment.

"An excellent question," Weiss mused. "If we all died, like we presume, then this may be some form of afterlife or pocket dimension that we fell into."

Jane Shepard let out a low whistle, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Wow, sounds like you almost have experience with this sort of thing," she remarked, eyeing Weiss with a hint of amusement.

Weiss winced, a pained expression flickering across her features. "Sort of. It's hard to explain, really," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Shepard's brow furrowed slightly at Weiss's reaction, but she chose not to dwell on it. "Well, I imagine we'll have all the time in the world to get talking about it as we explore," she said cheerfully, turning her attention to Weiss. "Lawson and I were just discussing that, so we'd be happy to have you accompany us."

At Shepard's invitation, Miranda Lawson shifted uncomfortably, seeming hesitant to trust two armed strangers in a strange environment after her recent brush with death. Sensing Miranda's unease, Shepard reached over and gave her hand a brief squeeze, offering silent reassurance. 'Don't worry, Mims, we got this,' she thought, but Miranda seemed to get the message.

"Very well, then," Weiss agreed.

Monika hesitated for a moment before raising her hand, a gesture that seemed almost tentative, "There are five other women around the corner in a family room. Maybe they could help us?"

Miranda Lawson regarded her with a quizzical expression, "How would you know that?"

"I just do," Monika replied cryptically.

Raising an eyebrow, Miranda turned to Jane Shepard, "Shepard, what do you think?"

Jane tilted her head, straining to hear any signs of activity. A faint echo of voices drifted down the halls. "Alright, whatever. Lawson and I were going to explore anyways. It's better if we go ahead and meet up with these other gals. Around the corner, you said?"

Monika nodded, "Yes, just take a left here, then another left once you reach the end of the hallway. You'll find the family room on the third floor."

Jane's expression tightened slightly, thinking 'Okay, maybe we should be worried about how much this girl apparently knows.' "Alright then, let's go."

Shepard took charge, immediately walking down the hallway and rounding the corner with Miranda quickly following after her and Ruby and Weiss, and Monika following a few feet after them.

Accompanied by the soft and muffled sounds of their footsteps with the slight echo, as they walked the voices gradually grew louder. As they rounded the corner, As Shepard was struck by its spacious and cozy design, clearly meant for comfort and relaxation. Plush sofas and armchairs surrounded a large, ornate coffee table, all elegantly arranged. The focal point was a luxurious wall-mounted TV, hinting at moments of leisure spent watching shows or movies together.

The decor exuded sophistication, with rich fabrics and tasteful artwork enhancing the walls. Soft, ambient lighting from elegant lamps and chandeliers cast a warm and inviting glow. Large windows offered panoramic views, allowing natural light to filter in, adding to the room's luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

As Shepard's gaze fell upon the room's occupants, she noticed five other women. The first to catch her eye was a girl in purple and black with cat ears and a tail, along with an x-shaped scar on her left hip. The second, clad in yellow and brown, stood tall and curvaceous, with long, thick, wavy golden hair and vibrant lilac eyes, exuding confidence and strength.

Shepard observed how the room's occupants reacted to each other's presence, with the four colorfully dressed girls embracing in tight hugs, their expressions a mix of comfort, sadness, and relief.

Her attention then shifted to the other three women, who had moved slightly away from the colorful group. One wore shining medieval armor, exuding a serious and stoic demeanor with an air of nobility, resembling a warrior princess. The second, petite with red eyes and long, wavy black hair styled in twin tails, presented an elegant femininity in white-gold and black attire. The third, positioned in the corner of the room, wore strikingly ornate brown and blue attire, with a robotic glove on her left arm and a staff adorned with a large, blue, multi-pointed crystal emitting a faint green glow. She exuded a sense of perfection and beauty, reminding Shepard of Miranda.

Shepard clicked her tongue, then approached the knightly figure and the elegant woman observing as the colorful group continued their discussion. She then extended her hand to the knight, who regarded it before accepting in a firm handshake.

"Jane Shepard," she introduced herself. "Commander in the Systems Alliance and Citadel Council Spectre."

"Artoria Pendragon," the knight responded, "the King of Knights. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Shepard raised an eyebrow. "Artoria Pendragon, as in Arthur Pendragon? Like King Arthur? Quite the fan to adopt such a name."

"I am King Arthur," Artoria Pendragon stated simply.

Taken aback, Shepard noted this revelation before turning to the elegant woman, extending her hand. The woman hesitantly shook Shepard's hand and introduced herself as Rin Tohsaka.

"Shepard will do," Jane replied. "Do either of you have any insight into how we arrived here? Or what this place might be?"

"I am not privy to the circumstances of our arrival," Artoria replied.

"I have my theories," Rin added, "but this doesn't resemble any afterlife I am acquainted with."

"It sounds like you're no stranger to unusual situations," Shepard remarked.

"Perhaps," Rin replied, half-jokingly, "but revealing any secrets would require drastic measures."

The brunette with her staff, who had been listening nearby, interjected. "Oh, lighten up, Ishtar. While it's true that magi may collaborate with certain UN factions and the Moonlit World remains a well-guarded secret, the Mages Association might not even be involved here."

Miranda, who had stood silently behind Shepard so far, added her perspective, "Ishtar, or Inanna, the ancient Mesopotamian goddess of love, war, and fertility. Quite an intriguing title. As for magic, I'm afraid such things don't exist."

"Unless you're referring to parlor tricks?" Shepard quipped.

Da Vinci, Artoria, and Ishtar exchanged glances before Ishtar produced a small ruby. The gem briefly glowed and then erupted into flames, causing Shepard to step back in shock, while others murmured in amazement and caution. The ruby had vanished from Ishtar's hand, now replaced by a fireball hovering above her palm. With a wave, the flame dissipated.

"Did you see that?" Shepard exclaimed, surprised then excited. "Actual magic. That's incredible!"

Shepard turned to Miranda, whose expression showed surprise at Shepard's uncharacteristic excitement. Team RWBY seemed unfazed, while Monika appeared surprised.

"Meh, it's rare but not unheard of," Yang Xiao Long remarked, nonchalant.

"Why aren't you all more excited?" Shepard asked, noticing Team RWBY's reactions.

"While magecraft isn't true magic," Ishtar smirked, "I suppose it could still be impressive to the mundane."

"So, you use magic, or magecraft, as you call it," Weiss Schnee inquired. "How are you able to use it? And for how long have you been able to wield it?"

"I've wielded magecraft for as long as I can remember," Ishtar explained. "I was considered a prodigy, showing great potential. My father, Tokiomi Tohsaka, taught me initially, and later I was instructed by the Wizard Marshall and Sorcerer Zelretch. As for the distinction between Magecraft and Magic—"

"Magecraft and Magic are similar," Da Vinci interjected, "both utilizing thaumaturgy and od, energy originating from the soul. Magecraft is essentially artificial magic, while Magic is the realization of true mysteries."

"Could you elaborate on that distinction?" Miranda inquired.

"Magecraft employs supernatural means to achieve what science considers possible," Ishtar grumbled at the interruption. "While the process is extraordinary, the result is not. Modern Magecraft, limited only by human intellect and the rules of the world, cannot create new mysteries, only replicate existing phenomena. Magic, on the other hand, is the pinnacle of mystery, surpassing both Magecraft and contemporary sciences. It involves achieving events impossible in a given era, even with infinite time and resources. Unlike Magecraft, Magic can produce outcomes considered impossible or miraculous, such as time manipulation, teleportation, and resurrection."

"So, can you time travel?" Yang Xiao Long asked.

"If you can use magic, do you know our current location?" Miranda added.

"No, I cannot time travel, and no, I don't know our location," Ishtar replied. "I've attempted to leave using the Second Magic, but it yielded no results."

"Well, as much as I'd like to delve further into magic," Shepard addressed the group, "Lawson is correct in prioritizing our location. Let's focus on that for now."

"Alright, everyone," Shepard continued, addressing the diverse group before her. "I'm Commander Jane Shepard of the Systems Alliance and a Spectre of the Citadel Council. Given the extraordinary circumstances we find ourselves in, including the presence of magic and other unexplained phenomena, let's do some quick introductions before we delve into figuring out our situation. Sound good?"

"Right! You already know me," Ruby Rose began enthusiastically, "but for the rest of you, I'm Ruby Rose, a Huntress and leader of Team RWBY."

"Weiss Schnee," the elegant young woman introduced herself.

"Blake Belladonna," the quiet one said next.

"Yang, nice to meet you all," the energetic blonde completed the introductions for Team RWBY.

"Miranda Lawson," the human officer introduced herself calmly.

"You can call me Monika," the virtual character said with a smile.

"I am Rin Tohsaka, known by some as Ishtar, the goddess of Love, War, and Fertility, currently inhabiting the body of Rin Tohsaka," Ishtar introduced herself with a hint of mischief. "It's a pleasure to meet everyone."

"Artoria Pendragon, pleased to make your acquaintance," the knightly figure greeted with a nod.

"And I am Leonardo da Vinci!" Da Vinci exclaimed, her voice filled with passion. "A mind ever-curious and a heart ever-enthralled by the marvels of the world, I stand before you, a humble servant of knowledge and artistry. Treat me well so that we may embark on this journey of discovery together."

"I thought Leonardo da Vinci was supposed to be a man?" Shepard raised an eyebrow, curious about the discrepancy.

"Ah, a keen observation, Commander Shepard," Da Vinci replied with a smile. "Indeed, I was born male, but my mind and soul have always leaned towards the more feminine. Through a combination of magecraft and science, I've crafted the body I desired, a testament to beauty and perfection." With a graceful pose, she displayed her womanly form, showcasing her ingenuity and creativity.

"Now that we all know each other," Shepard concluded, "let's explore and figure out where we are and how to get out of here and back to our homes."

As she entered the room, Jane too a brief note of the room, what looked to be a Home Office, or Study, as some may prefer to call it; having a warm ambiance with rich wood paneling and high-end furniture. A masterpiece desk, equipped with a state-of-the-art computer and elegant writing tools, sat in the corner facing the door. Plush, leather-upholstered chairs and couch in the center of the room offered comfort, and large windows provided views of the mansion's grounds. Expensive artwork adorned the walls, and bookshelves filled with leather-bound books added a certain scholarly charm.

"Quite the office," she remarked, feeling quite happy with how nice the room was. She walked further itno the room, running her fingers across the leather of the couch, "The design of this place is certainly impressive."

"Yes, the room is quiet impressive. The design looks elegant and luxurious," Miranda said as she too took in the details of the room. "It's a refined taste and a discerning eye that went into it's design. The furniture, the artwork, the decorations... the owner has good taste."

Shepard hummed in response as she stpped by the bookshelves, her eyes skimming over the many titles, "What was the last book you read? If you've even read recently that is?"

Miranda Lawson reflected, "I haven't really had the time to read. We had to stop the Collectors, I ran from Cerberus while making sure my sister was protected, and we had the Reapers invading."

"That's fair," Jane Shepard acknowledged. "I don't really remember the last time I read. I used to enjoy it as a hobby."

"I remember," Miranda replied.

"Though, I guess the times I did, I liked to read fantasy or sci-fi novels. I am particularly fond of anything with a strong female lead character. Though I enjoyed comic books mostly," Shepard added.

"Comic Books, how colorful," Miranda remarked. "Perhaps you should consider expanding your literary horizons to encompass works that require a bit more intellectual stimuli. But each to their own, I suppose."

"Oh, shut up," Shepard retorted playfully. "I'll have you know that I'm one of the smartest women in the galaxy." She moved away from the bookshelf to take a look out the window.

"Forgive me if I doubt your claim," Miranda teased back.

"Don't worry, you're forgiven," Jane replied with a grin as she took in the view outside the window, somewhat amazed by what she saw.

From the vantage point, Shepard estimated they were three floors above ground level. Just outside the mansion, an expansive courtyard unfolded, its ground paved with shimmering, polished stone tiles. A grand marble fountain at its heart depicted intricate carvings of mythical creatures, its waters catching the sunlight. Surrounding the fountain, lush gardens bloomed with vibrant flowers, exotic plants, wildflowers, herbs, and greenery.

Elegant columns lined the courtyard's periphery, supporting archways embellished with intricate scrollwork and statues of classical figures. Paved pathways gracefully led from the courtyard to the mansion's main entrance, flanked by neatly trimmed hedges and ornamental shrubs. Strategically placed lighting fixtures casted a warm, inviting glow.

Beyond the courtyard, the estate sprawled with vast gardens and wooded areas. Ancient, gnarled trees stretched their thick, twisting branches, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Winding pathways, bordered by hedgerows and stone walls, meandered through the estate. Formal gardens boasted neatly trimmed hedges and geometric flower beds, interspersed with pathways.

A substantial greenhouse stood at the garden's edge, showcasing the estate's commitment to botanical wonders. In one corner, a large swimming pool with a flagstone terrace provided a serene spot for relaxation, complete with lounge chairs and umbrellas.

Throughout the grounds, training grounds and obstacle courses were scattered. A large stone building, its windows few, sat adjacent to a cleared dirt surface with wooden targets. Nearby, sat a storage facility or barn of sorts.

The perimeter of the grounds was enclosed by high stone walls, adorned with towers and turrets reminiscent of medieval architecture. A gatehouse completed the boundary. Adding a sci-fi twist, automated drones, sleek metallic flying machines, patrolled the sky, juxtaposing modern technology with the estate's Old Earth charm.

Jane Shepard stood in awe, gazing at the breathtaking sight before her, "Damn. I have no words. No words indeed to describe the looks of this place."

Miranda Lawson joined her, equally impressed, "Certainly an impressive setup. Modern technology blending with the traditional architecture of Earth."

Looking down, it almost felt like a normal mansion grounds they'd find back on Earth, maybe, if not for the truly alien skyline. Shepard unlocked the hatch for the window, poking her head out to get a better view.

The horizon seemed to curve upwards, creating a surreal sense of the world bending overhead, possibly in a complete circle. She could see an entire island and continent directly across from her. Above, the sky was a mesmerizing display of landmasses and seas, stretching like a band or ribbon suspended in the air.

This place quickly earned its spot in Shepard's mental list of the "weirdest places I've been," ranking somewhere between the Collector Base at the center of the galaxy, the Crucible, and the Prothean ruins on Ilos. It was a truly awesome and amazing sight, unlike anything she had ever seen before.

"This is..." she began, unable to find the right words to describe the scene.

"Unbelievable." Miranda whispered, her voice tinged with a mixture of awe and wonder.

Stepping back from the window, Jane made a decision. "I think we should. Let's regroup with the others."

Miranda didn't say anything, simply nodding.

Jane was already leaving the room to find one of the other girls when a sudden wave of dizziness hit her, like standing up too fast or moving around with low iron levels. She steadied herself quickly, not one to let a little disorientation slow her down.

This version reflects Shepard's concise and efficient communication style, addressing the situation with a sense of determination and without unnecessary detail.

"Shepard?" Miranda's voice echoed through the fog of disorientation.

Her vision blurred, then went black.

When she regained awareness, she didn't immediately spring into action, gun at the ready. No, it was more like that moment when you enter a room and forget your purpose, standing there momentarily puzzled before moving on.

As soon as her mind refocused, she had her pistol primed and her biotics glowing a vibrant blue, ready for action. Her surroundings were vast, an ever-changing battlefield stretching as far as the eye could see. The terrain shifted beneath her, from rocky outcrops to verdant patches of grass, to desolate, glassed plains and acrid-smelling wastelands, then to sandy dunes and rolling green hills, and finally to snow-covered landscapes with towering mountains, all bearing the scars of war.

Above, the sky was a tumultuous canvas of swirling dark clouds occasionally illuminated by crackling lightning. She thought she glimpsed the shadows of colossal ships looming above, their weapons charged and ready to unleash devastation upon the twisting landscapes below. The air was thick with the smell of ozone and the distant sounds of warfare—gunfire, explosions, and the whine of plasma fire.

In this surreal setting, shadows moved with purpose, engaged in fierce firefights. Great armored soldiers and marines clashed with hundreds of unrecognizable aliens, both sides fighting with skill, ferocity, and a palpable hatred that made the scene feel all too real, despite its ethereal nature.

At the heart of the chaos, seated on a hill, was a titan in green armor, towering over Shepard. He resembled a mech, clad head to toe in olive-green armor over a black bodysuit, with a helmet featuring a striking golden visor. Emblazoned on his left breastplate was the number '115' in white lettering. His presence seemed to embolden the shadowed humans around him, who fought against overwhelming odds with unwavering resolve. Surrounding him were makeshift graves—helmets on rifles—bearing blood-painted skulls over black visors, a solemn tribute to fallen comrades. Shepard recognized the feeling all too well, having experienced loss and sacrifice in battles like Torfan, Virmire, the Collector Base, and the Reaper War.

Despite his robotic appearance and minimal movement, Shepard, having befriended a Geth, was attuned to subtle body language even in the most mechanical of beings. The green-armored soldier before her was visibly shocked, though he barely shifted, his gaze locked on her in complete astonishment.

Jane stared at the towering green-armored figure before her, a strange sense of recognition tugging at her thoughts. Her gaze locked onto the '115' emblazoned on the Spartan's breastplate as she demanded, her voice echoing in the surreal, ever-changing battlefield, "Who are you? Where are we?" Her pistol remained firmly gripped in her hand.

The Spartan, unmoving despite the gun aimed at him, spoke in a low, measured tone. "Master Chief Petty Officer Spartan Sierra-115. Where are we? Last I recall, I was in cryosleep."

"Cryosleep?" Shepard repeated, lowering her weapon slightly, trying to comprehend the unusual situation. Cryosleep didn't exist, at least not in her knowledge. And the way this Spartan identified himself by a number, not a name, was puzzling.

"Cyrosleep, or Cryonic Suspension," the Spartan explained. "Cryonics preserves humans or organisms in stasis for extended periods, aiming to prevent aging effects. It differs from cryogenics, which studies cold's effects on materials. Cryonic suspension reduces metabolism, eliminating the body's need for oxygen, food, and warmth. The UNSC uses cryonic storage pods to conserve resources on long space voyages, keeping most personnel in suspension for trips over 120 hours. Many people have weird dreams in Cryosleep, which is impossible. In a Cryonic state, it is physically impossible to dream due to the cessation of neurochemical processes in the brain. The likely explanation is that most individuals experience a burst of REM sleep during the wake cycle; people erroneously attribute these dreams to their cryo-sleep time. My siblings always dream of the brief moment before they were kidnapped, vaguely remembering their parents and loved ones before we were all taken to Sword Base. Me, I don't dream, not necessarily. I always come here," he gestured to the ever-changing landscape and the ever-constant firefights that surrounded them both, "a dreamscape if you will."

Shepard listened, finding his explanation both informative and perplexing. The concept of cryosleep clashed with everything she knew about biology and physics. "That's..." she started, her tone slightly sarcastic. "Quite the explanation. So, not only am I conversing with a modern Spartan, but also with someone who claims to have dreams in a scientific state where dreaming is supposedly 'impossible.' Fascinating." Her skeptical demeanor was evident as she continued, "If this is your dreamscape, why am I here?"

"I don't know," the Spartan replied. "As far as I'm concerned, you shouldn't exist."

Jane raised an eyebrow at the Spartan's comment, an amused chuckle escaping her lips. She gestured around them, encompassing the surreal battlefield that surrounded them. "Perhaps I'm an illusion, a manifestation of your subconscious in this dreamscape of yours. Or maybe you're the one who doesn't exist, and I'm merely dreaming of conversing with a super soldier who calls himself a Spartan."

The Spartan seemed amused by her response. "Yes, that's an explanation, but a dream would imply recent thoughts of you or the Mass Effect games. I haven't. I've been fighting a losing war for over two decades, Shepard. I don't know why you appeared in my dream. Perhaps I was thinking your leadership to aid us. Yet, it won't change our current situation."

Shepard's interest was piqued at the mention of the Spartan's war. A losing war that had been going on for over two decades? That was intriguing. "Leadership, huh?" she mused, her expression now tinged with genuine curiosity. "If this dream is indeed real, then please, tell me about this losing war you've been fighting. How did it start? Who are you fighting? And why do you believe it's a lost cause?"

"It's a long explanation. The Human-Covenant War was a pivotal conflict that spanned the stars, pitting humanity against the relentless Covenant forces. It ignited in 2525 with isolated skirmishes, escalating when a Covenant vessel attacked a human vessel on the planet Harvest. Despite attempts at diplomacy, the Covenant's aggression persisted, leading to a series of devastating battles that tested humanity's resolve."

Shepard listened intently, her expression growing somber as she absorbed the details of the war. It sounded eerily familiar to her own experience with the Reapers and the galactic conflicts she had endured.

"A war spanning the stars... a seemingly indomitable enemy... endless battles," she murmured, her thoughts drifting to her past struggles. "It sounds a lot like what I and my crew have experienced. The Reapers-"

"-an ancient machine race that waits in dark space every 50,000 years to harvest all life in the galaxy," Marcus-115 interjected, his tone firm but empathetic.

Shepard nodded, her gaze distant. "Yes... While they didn't show up until a few years after Sovereign's first appearance, it was a war spanning the stars, a seemingly indomitable enemy, and endless battles. We fought them and eventually won, but at great cost."

Marcus acknowledged her experience with a solemn nod, "Indeed, I am aware of your tale, Shepard. I am still recounting the history of the Human-Covenant war and addressing your inquiries."

He continued, "The Human-Covenant War escalated when the Covenant declared humanity an affront and initiated a campaign to exterminate our entire species. The initial major engagement took place on Harvest, where the UNSC successfully evacuated numerous civilians before the Covenant rendered the planet uninhabitable. Vice Admiral Preston Cole led the largest fleet in human history in an attempt to reclaim Harvest in 2526, initiating a five-year pursuit and series of conflicts with the Covenant in the Outer Colonies. The UNSC deployed us, the SPARTAN-IIs, as super soldiers to counter the Covenant threat, earning a formidable reputation as 'demons' among our adversaries."

Shepard's eyes sparkled with a mix of understanding and empathy as she processed Marcus's words. "Demons..." She let out a soft chuckle, her expression thoughtful. "I understand that sentiment. Being a 'Butcher' of sorts to my enemies. Killing for those that matter might make you a demon to some, and a good friend to others. The Reapers even said my name as if it was a curse. Seems like we have more in common than you think, Spartan."

Marcus's gaze remained steady, "The Covenant's onslaught was relentless, laying waste to human worlds with their superior technology and overwhelming numbers. Despite our valiant efforts, the UNSC often found itself outmatched, with victories few and far between."

He continued, painting a grim picture of the conflict. "The Covenant's strategy centered on orbital bombardment, rendering ground invasions unnecessary in most cases. Human arms struggled against Covenant energy shields and plasma weaponry, resulting in few decisive wins for the UNSC. Initially, we relied on defense-in-depth tactics, later evolving to a modular firebase system to counter Covenant orbital assaults. Despite early triumphs, such as the reclamation of Harvest, the UNSC found itself on the losing end of the war, with several colonies lost or abandoned."

Shepard's brow furrowed as she listened, her eyes focused on Marcus-115. She leaned against a nearby rock, her expression one of contemplation. "So, you managed to win a few battles, but overall, you've been on the losing end for two decades. Is there hope for humanity? Any way that you believe this tide will turn in your favor?"

The Spartan stood tall, "I am confident in our ability to achieve victory, though it will come at a significant price.

"After six years of conflict, the UNSC found its nuclear arsenal severely depleted in certain regions due to engagements with the Covenant. The Outer Colonies, devastated or abandoned, faced economic turmoil and food shortages. As the Covenant encroached upon the Inner Colonies, the UNSC implemented the Cole Protocol, prohibiting UNSC vessels from leading the Covenant to Earth or other human population centers. Insurrectionist activity surged, fueled by discontent over the restrictions. The UNSC uncovered collaborations between some Insurrectionists and the Covenant, intensifying security concerns. The UNSC ship Midsummer Night uncovered an alliance between Insurrectionists and Kig-Yar, with the latter supplying and the former modifying weapons. By the Battle of Jericho VII in 2535, most Outer Colonies lay in ruins or were isolated from UNSC communications."

Shepard's eyes narrowed with focus as she absorbed the Spartan's words, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on her. She nodded slowly, her expression grave. "An alliance between Insurrectionists and the Covenant, eh? People would really team up with the guys that are trying to wipe them out?"

"Less of a team-up, and more about utilizing the Covenant's weapons while they in turn are manipulated by the Covenant to uncover Earth's location."

Shepard's brow furrowed, her mind processing the information. "... How have you survived these last two decades, Spartan? It seems you've been surrounded by enemies on all sides and still managed to fight. Do you still have hope? What keeps you going in the face of such overwhelming odds?"

Marcus's voice was steady as he spoke,  "I survive out of necessity. There's no other option. Should I just give up, curl into a ball, and wait for rescue? No, that's not who I am. My survival and success are a result of my training under Chief Mendez, my genetic makeup, and, as Dr. Halsey would say, luck. But I don't feel lucky. I've seen too much loss, too many deaths. Yet, I carry on, completing the mission, no matter the cost."

He continued, his tone carrying the weight of the sacrifices made in the name of victory. "Throughout the conflict, the UNSC faced numerous defeats as the Covenant maintained space superiority. Despite costly ground victories such as the destruction of K7-49 and the Siege of the Atlas Moons in 2537, the UNSC suffered losses of colonies like New Constantinople and Leonis Minoris. The total annihilation of a SPARTAN-III force also marked a significant setback. Across the 2540s, the UNSC endured further defeats, including the loss of SPARTAN-II Sheila-065, the defeat at Actium, the Fall of Arcadia, and the loss of Paris IV. One notable success was Operation: TORPEDO in 2545, despite the sacrifice of 298 SPARTAN-IIIs. The raid on the Third Fleet of Glorious Consequence to rescue Dr. Halsey exposed the Covenant's vulnerability. The Battle of Psi Serpentis in 2543, known as Admiral Cole's last stand, resulted in the presumed death of Admiral Preston J. Cole and the destruction of over 300 Covenant vessels. This battle, alongside the destruction of the Unyielding Hierophant and the actions of Spartan-115 (me), stood as some of the UNSC's few significant victories during the war."

Shepard nodded, her respect for Marcus and his humanity growing with each revelation. "Operation TORPEDO... an effective strike against the enemy. Even though you were outgunned and outnumbered, you managed to land a significant blow." She listened intently, absorbing the details of the sacrifices made. "And the sacrifice of 298 Spartan-IIIs in Operation TORPEDO? A heavy one indeed. But sometimes that's the price of victory."

Shepard paused, her expression growing more serious, her eyes locked on the Spartan's visored gaze. "I understand the feeling of being surrounded and facing overwhelming odds. In the face of that, sometimes all you have left is hope."

The Spartan nodded, continuing, "As of 2552, the Office of Naval Intelligence had accepted the grim reality that humanity might have only months left before the Covenant wiped out the remaining Inner Colonies and targeted Earth. To buy time, HIGHCOM ordered all available SPARTAN-IIs to return to Reach and initiate Operation: RED FLAG. This mission aimed to locate the Covenant homeworld and capture a Prophet to compel the Covenant into a cease-fire. Currently, preparations are underway for Operation: RED FLAG to capture one of the Prophets. That's why I currently am in Cyrosleep. All Spartan II's are being called back to Reach and we should all be there soon. Though, as HIGHCOM deliberates on the operation's specifics and the broader war, I intend to join Spartan III Noble Team's mission to investigate a disrupted relay in Visegrad. While it could be an Insurrectionist cell, that's precisely why my team and I are investigating—I have a foreboding about it, so to speak."

Shepard nodded, her expression serious. "If your instincts are telling you something's amiss, it's worth looking into," she said, her voice firm. She understood the importance of listening to gut feelings, especially in life-or-death situations. "Keep your guard up, Spartan. And if you do uncover something crucial, don't hesitate to act. Humanity's future may depend on it."

Marcus acknowledged Shepard's words with a solemn nod. "I understand the importance of this mission for humanity's future. That's why I'm going—to help."

He then shifted the focus back to Shepard. "How did you get here? What were you doing before you arrived?"

Shepard's words hung in the air, her story unfolding like a mystery wrapped in an enigma. She considered the question for a moment, her expression turning contemplative, "Well, it's quite the story," she began, her voice carrying a hint of wonder. She shook her head, as if trying to clear her thoughts. "I perished after activating the Crucible, or so it seemed. The Crucible was meant to end the Reaper threat, initiating a synthesis between organic and synthetic life. Instead of meeting my end, I awoke in a room that resembled my quarters on the Normandy."

Shepard paused, her gaze distant as she recounted her journey, "Now, in this mysterious mansion, I found myself reunited with Miranda Lawson, who had apparently died during the later stages of the Reaper War. Alongside her were other deceased individuals, including a group of young women who called themselves Team RWBY, and historical and mythological figures such as King Arthur— who is apparently a woman—and the Mesopotamian Goddess Ishtar, who now goes by Rin Tohsaka. There was also Leonardo da Vinci, now in a female body she crafted for herself. They speculated that the place we found ourselves in might be some form of afterlife or pocket dimension."

Shepard's voice grew more animated as she delved deeper into her narrative. "Through our discussions, I learned that we're not all from the same place; they're not the humans I'm familiar with, nor are they from the Earth of my galaxy, or any planet in my galaxy for that matter, which was quite perplexing. Together, we've begun to explore the mansion, seeking answers about why we're here. Just recently, I was in the study with Lawson, where we discovered that we're apparently on a ring world. It's truly one of the most bizarre sights I've ever beheld!"

Marcus was listening intently, his eyes focused on Shepard. Something she had said had caught his attention, sparking a question. "How do you know those names? Team RWBY, Artoria, Rin, and Da Vinci?"

Shepard glanced at the Spartan, her brow slightly furrowing. She took in his intensity, feeling a growing tension as she tried to make sense of his reaction. "I spoke with them. We had brief introductions. There was an unspoken understanding that we're all from different worlds, akin to string theory or the multiverse. Magic is apparently real, which is quite fascinating. Miranda and I did some exploring. I became dizzy, blacked out, and woke up here."

Marcus considered her words, his mind racing with possibilities. He looked away from her, his gaze distant as he processed his thoughts. After a moment, he returned his gaze to her. "I believe I may have an explanation for what's going on."

Shepard's interest was piqued, and she leaned in slightly. "Oh? You've got answers for this? Please, enlighten me, because I'm just as baffled as you are."

The Spartan's explanation was delivered with a sense of certainty, his words carrying weight in the gravity of their implications. "Okay, so you're already familiar with string theory, the multiverse, and the ideas of other worlds and alternative realities; that'll make this easier. The Multiverse, from my understanding, is that anything is possible. If I shake a man's hand, that tiny difference creates its timeline; if I don't shake a man's hand, it creates its timeline. Do you understand? When presented with two choices, two different things happen, creating two different timelines, two different Earths. Basically, going by that theory, anything is possible; any story ever told actually happened, in this reality or another. Every fantasy book, every mythological tale, it's all real somewhere out there. As we talk, even you and I are being written about and read somewhere, somehow. That's how I know who you, and everyone else you mentioned, are, despite never meeting you before. You were characters in a story originating from different universes."

Shepard listened intently, her expression thoughtful as she tried to absorb the implications of what the Spartan was saying. She'd encountered the idea of alternate realities and multiverses before, but the thought of being part of a fictional narrative was hard to grasp. "So, you're saying every fictional story, every myth, every legend, they're all real somewhere?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief. "That's quite a lot to take in."

Marcus's recounting of his experiences was matter-of-fact, his tone reflecting the weight of his revelations. "Back in 2007, a game called Mass Effect was released for the Xbox 360, seventeen years before I was hit by a truck and woke up on Eridanus II. Mass Effect is a science fiction game set in the Milky Way galaxy in 2183. Interstellar travel is possible through Mass Relays, built by an extinct alien race called the Protheans. The term 'Mass Effect' refers to mass-negating technology that enables physics phenomena like artificial gravity and faster-than-light travel. The Citadel Council governs a significant portion of the galaxy, including races like humans, asari, salarians, and turians. Other races include the krogan, quarians, and geth. Humanity is represented by the Systems Alliance. The protagonist, Commander Shepard, is a candidate to become the first human Spectre, a special agent group tasked with protecting the galaxy. Shepard's squad includes Kaidan Alenko, Ashley Williams, Garrus Vakarian, Urdnot Wrex, Tali'Zorah, and Liara T'Soni. Other notable characters are Captain David Anderson and pilot Jeff 'Joker' Moreau. You were fiction to me. So was the Covenant and the Spartans before I died back in late 2023, early 2024. Do you understand?"

Shepard listened intently, a mix of disbelief and wonder storming her gut. This was insane information, but the conviction in his words made her consider it. The idea that her adventures were just fictional narratives in another reality was hard to accept. Still, the Spartan's words carried a conviction that intrigued her, even if she wasn't ready to fully believe it. "I think I understand," she said slowly. "In your reality, Mass Effect was just a game, and characters like me and the Covenant were part of a fictional world. But here... here we're real."

Marcus gave a slight nod, "I understand, truly. It was a tough realization for me as well, that I died only to become a child soldier and replaced John as the Master Chief. However, I don't think either of us are the type to let a little existentialism stop us."

Shepard chuckled softly, appreciating the Spartan's dry sense of humor. "You've got that right. Life, death, reality, fiction—none of it matters in the face of our goals. We focus on the mission, on what's real and tangible. Everything else is just background noise."

Marcus nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, now back to what I was saying. Are you familiar with Rule 34?"

Shepard raised an eyebrow, giving the Spartan a sidelong glance, "Rule 34? I've heard it referenced before. I believe it refers to the idea that 'if it exists, there's porn of it somewhere.' Why do you ask?"

The Spartan's tone was matter-of-fact yet tinged with a hint of nostalgia, "Before I died, I was introduced to something called The Waifu Catalog. It's basically a Rule 34 economy system where you pick a world that gives you points based on its difficulty for the average person. I chose to be the Master Chief in the Human-Covenant War, selected various items, accumulated debt, and ended up with negative money. I also chose thirteen different Waifus to be apart of my Retinue: Jane Shepard, Ruby Rose, Monika, Yang Xiao Long, Artoria Pendragon, Da Vinci, Miranda Lawson, Blake Belladonna, Ishtar/Rin Tohsaka, Cortana, Serana, and Kyu Sugardust."

Shepard's reaction was immediate, her eyes widening slightly as she processed the Spartan's words. A mix of surprise and amusement flickered across her features as she leaned in, her voice laced with a hint of playful curiosity, "So, are you saying you've masturbated to porn of me?"

Marcus's voice held a casual tone, almost as if discussing the weather, as he continued, "To be fair, you didn't really exist. And that's the part you're focused on? I don't know why, but from the sounds of it, it's kind of my fault you gals didn't properly die and are stuck at that mansion, Shepard."

Shepard couldn't help but be amused by the Spartan's nonchalant attitude toward their peculiar predicament. Her amusement danced in her eyes as she responded, her tone light but with a hint of curiosity, "Ah, so you're the one responsible, hm? And here I thought we were dealing with some cosmic entity playing games." She chuckled softly, shaking her head in amusement. "In all seriousness, though, I do have some distaste for this. What are we supposed to be, your slaves or something?"

"Any distaste or anger you have is understandable, especially given your history with the Batarians, but please understand that I never wanted this to happen. I didn't want to become a Spartan fighting in a losing war, nor did I want to kidnap a bunch of living people to be my trophy harem wives. In part to blame is The Company, the ones running The Waifu Catalog. I don't have any solutions to this or any ways to get each of you back home."

Jane listened intently, her features softening as she absorbed Marcus's explanation. Her anger ebbed away, replaced by a newfound understanding of his perspective. "I see," she said quietly, her voice tinged with empathy. "So you're just as much a victim as we are." Shepard let out a soft sigh before continuing, her tone thoughtful yet determined, "We may not have all the answers, and our situation may be far from ideal, but as long as we're all stuck here together, I believe there are ways to make the best of it. It's not perfect, nor what we want, never is, but none of the gals strike me as someone who lets a little thing like death or a gilded prison stop them. I reckon they're the type who always gets back up."

"Correct."

Shepard huffed, a witty retort on her lips before she was hit by the same dizzy feeling from earlier. Her vision started to fade, and she felt herself losing balance. With a quick recovery, she steadied herself, avoiding a fall, but not without a stumble.

"Shepard?" Miranda's voice cut through the moment, her concern evident but subtly masked.

"I'm fine, Mims," Shepard reassured, noting the telltale signs of worry in Miranda's expression. "Just got some answers and a whole lot more questions."

Marcus felt tired—tired and weary. Maybe in the beginning, back at Sword Base, he should have expected more twists or perhaps even a reason for taking John's place. Now he has his answer: The Company. Something of utter friction made real.

Dammit. He didn't sign up for this. None of it.

He had grown accustomed to his place as a Spartan, but now the old, spiteful wounds were reopening.

It wasn't fair that he got this lot in life, nor was it fair for the girls to be taken from wherever they should be by his kidnapping them. Then again, when has the world ever been fair?

He was pulled from his thoughts by a glimmering, hot pink light appearing in the distance of his dreamscape. His first thought was that it might be Needler or plasma fire, but it slowly grew in size, affecting the world around him. The smoke and dirt in the air, and the dark clouds above were replaced by pink, blue, red, green, and orange sparkles and glowing particles. A yellow sun and a blue sky appeared, with the shifting landscapes of the various places he had fought at being replaced by a land of vibrant colors, lush greenery, and blooming flowers. The landscape now featured rolling hills, magical forests, and sparkling rivers. In the sky, amid the multiple colored sparkles and glowing particles, floating islands began to appear. These islands were connected by bridges of light, magical pathways, and some were not connected at all. Buildings with a fairy tale aesthetic, intricate designs, and delicate structures made of natural materials like stone, wood, and vine started to appear. They looked as if they had grown from the earth, seamlessly blending with the environment rather than being plucked by human hands and man-made.

Gone was the vast, shifting battlefield with rocky outcrops, grassy patches, glassed plains, wastelands, sandy dunes, green hills, and snow-covered mountains, all scarred by war. Stormy skies with lightning revealed shadows of colossal ships. The air smelled of ozone, filled with the sounds of gunfire and explosions. Shadows of soldiers and aliens clashed fiercely. That ever changing warzone that made up the past two decades of his life was now replaced by this Faerie Wonderland.

The cause of all this, now in front of him, was someone he remembered quite fondly: a video game character from Huniepop that he had first encountered through Markiplier's playthrough of the game. She exuded a playful and sensual energy with her striking appearance. She had a slender physique with an hourglass figure, featuring curved hips and ample breasts that were accentuated by her attire. Her flat stomach led down to her curved hips, enhancing her curvaceous form.

Her short, pink pig-tailed hair extended to just above her shoulders, adorned with two decorative silver antennae. Her green eyes contrasted beautifully with her hair, and her full lips, painted a soft pink, complemented her overall look. Her expression was flirtatious, with a slight, inviting smile.

Her outfit consisted of pink and white baby-doll lingerie that barely covered her breasts, emphasizing their size and shape. The top had a large bow in the center, and she wore light-pink panties with a purple butterfly shape attached to the front. She also had a white collared necklace with a pink choker top, featuring a red heart shape on the front.

Her large, butterfly-like, translucent fairy wings were patterned in pink, adding a magical and whimsical element to her appearance. She wore light pink stockings that covered the lower parts of her thighs and purple ballerina shoes. The sheer fabric draped around her waist added an element of tease, revealing and concealing parts of her body. This was Kyu Sugardust.

Back in his past life, when he was first introduced to the Waifu Catalog, he added her to his Retinue list as an afterthought, liking her teasing and playful nature. Though admittedly, she was kind of an asshole at times. Then again, he had been called an asshole for many things he had said and done, whether well-meaning or not understanding what he did to piss people off. So, who was he to judge?

Kyu floated above Marcus, her typical playful and snarky demeanor evident in every movement. She leaned down, gently poking the tip of his nose, her eyes twinkling mischievously as a playful grin danced on her lips. "Well, well, look at you, soldier boy. Or should I say Chief? Spartan? Whatever floats your boat," she quipped with a teasing tone. "You're really hitting it off with Shepard, huh? I'd say you two are on your way to becoming best buds. Pretty wild dream you had there. Been thinking about me a lot, haven't you?" A smirk played on her pink lips as her wings fluttered gently, keeping her afloat.

Marcus, looking up at her with a mixture of confusion and curiosity, responded, "Kyu Sugardust... No, I do not recall dreaming about you. What are you doing here? Why are you not at the mansion? Are you and the others actually real? How did you alter my dreamscape?"

Kyu raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening at Marcus's questioning tone. Hovering closer to him, her pink, butterfly-like wings effortlessly kept her aloft. "Mansion? Altered your dreamscape? Oh, honey, you sound a little disoriented. Let me help you clear things up." She chuckled softly, tilting her head in an endearing manner. "First off, I'm very real. I'm not a dream, a hallucination, or a figment of your imagination. And yes, the other girls are real too. We're all part of your Retinue, remember?"

Marcus nodded slowly. "Yes, I needed confirmation. How can you suggest I am going to have a harem?"

Kyu chuckled at Marcus's question, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as she took a seat in the air, floating effortlessly. "Oh, it's not a suggestion, honey. It's a fact. As you know, I'm a love fairy. My job is to help poor saps like you with the ladies. It's what I do. You've got all these ladies you want to seduce, including myself. You've got quite the challenge ahead since these ladies are no walk in the park. We've got our work cut out for us. But don't worry, I've got a pretty impressive track record—my previous clients are basically walking babe magnets now. You? You're going to be my greatest accomplishment yet."

Marcus's voice was deadpan and unamused. "Do you say that to every guy you meet?"

Kyu laughed heartily, throwing her head back. She had expected a smartass response, and this one met her expectations. "Oh, you're a smart aleck, aren't you? Don't worry, champ. I don't say it to just any guy." She smirked, her wings fluttering lightly. "You, though, you're a special case. You've got quite the lineup of ladies to go through. But I'm confident I can work wonders with you. Who knows, by the end of this, you might be drowning in women."

Marcus remained stoic. "There is a problem with that. To be in a relationship, you have to want it. You cannot force it. If I am guessing correctly from Shepard's words, nearly all of the girls have died and have now been interdimensionally kidnapped by The Company. They want to go back home and are likely looking for ways back as we speak. Even if one of them were open to a relationship or was not already in one, none of them are polygamous or open to polyamorous relationships, except maybe Rin, Artoria, and Team RWBY. I do not even want to think about what Monika thinks about all this. You should get my point."

Kyu's smirk faded, her expression turning uncharacteristically serious. She took his words to heart, realizing the gravity of his concerns. "You make a fair point, I'll give you that," she acknowledged slowly. "And let me assure you, I am well aware of the intricacies of relationships and the individual preferences of each girl. I specialize in love, remember? I don't do things unless it's consensual."

Kyu listened to Marcus's words intently, a frown beginning to replace her smirk. She knew he had a point. "You're right," she admitted, her voice unusually serious. "None of the girls are here by choice. They were stolen from their homes, their worlds, and their loved ones. They want nothing more than to go back. And you're right about their relationship preferences too. They're not used to the idea of a harem. But you're right. It's going to take a lot of finesse and patience to navigate these relationships, especially considering these circumstances."

Kyu paused, her expression thoughtful. She hovered in front of him, her wings no longer fluttering.

Marcus nodded slightly. "Thank you for taking my words seriously. I remember you being more of a carefree asshole in the Huniepop games. So, thanks. But I need you to understand something about me first, Kyu. Back in my first life, my civilian life, my plan was simple: get a stable job, a second income, a house, find a woman who aligned with my values, and provide for her the way a man should. Once I get done with the war, if I live through it, I would love to settle down with one of them. Maybe even two," the thought of polygamy felt strange to him, "but still, I doubt anything will happen between me and the other girls. Even if it did, I wouldn't know how to take care of and love multiple women. Let alone ten."

Kyu nodded, crossing her arms as she listened intently to Marcus's words. Her expression softened, and she understood the depth of his thoughts. She floated closer to him, her wings fluttering softly again.

"I may come across as carefree and cheeky in Huniepop, but trust me, I know how to take things seriously when it matters," she said, a small smile playing at her lips again. "And I appreciate your stance. You value stability, commitment, and a traditional lifestyle. Those are respectable qualities, soldier boy."

Kyu smiled warmly, her wings fluttering gently as she floated in front of Marcus. "I understand your concerns, Marcus," she said, her voice soothing and reassuring. "This situation is far from ideal for any of these ladies. They've been taken from their worlds, and it's only natural they want to return. But that doesn't mean they can't find happiness here, too. Sometimes, love can grow in the most unexpected places."

Kyu leaned closer, her green eyes sparkling with determination. "I'm here to help you navigate this, to make sure that if there's a chance for a connection, you don't miss it. It's not just about seduction or forming a harem. It's about understanding each of these amazing women, what they need, and how you can be there for them. You're not just trying to win them over; you're trying to form genuine, meaningful relationships."

She placed a gentle hand on Marcus's shoulder, her touch comforting and supportive. "We'll take it one step at a time. I'll teach you everything you need to know about dating, from reading the subtle cues to understanding their unique personalities. You'll learn how to approach each of them with the respect and care they deserve. And I'll be right here, guiding you, offering advice, and sometimes even joining you on dates to give you that extra boost."

Kyu chuckled lightly, her eyes glinting with humor again. "And yeah, I get it. Ten women might overwhelm even the most seasoned of men. But let me tell you this: these ladies, they're special. Each and every one of them is unique. But that's why I'm here. I'm the best in the love fairy business. I've turned plenty of guys, and some girls, into babe magnets and helped them find serious, lasting love.

"I even took a total loser who couldn't speak to women and turned him into a master of love, sex, and passion. He ended up with multiple women and even saved the world from the Nymphojinn--powerful, unspeakably horny, and vengeful beings full of lust. Venus might have done it before, but it was a human I trained who saved the world from those space hookers by seducing them and, well, you get the idea. He was my number one client."

Kyu's wings fluttered with excitement as she leaned closer to Marcus, her eyes sparkling with determination. "So don't worry about a bunch of girls you don't know how to handle. If they don't want to be part of the romance, that's their loss. But I have a feeling they'll be more than interested once they see what you're capable of. You're not just any guy, Marcus. You've got something special, something that can draw these women to you if you let it."

Kyu's playful smile returned, her tone lightening as she continued. "You've got a lot going for you, Marcus. You're kind, thoughtful, and determined. That's a great foundation. With my help, you'll learn how to bring out the best in yourself and show these ladies why you're worth their time and affection. And hey, if it turns into something more between us, well, that's just a bonus."

She winked at him, her wings fluttering with renewed energy. "Remember, I'm Kyu Sugardust, love fairy extraordinaire. Together, we'll turn you into the kind of guy who can win the hearts of these incredible women. Trust in yourself, trust in me, and let's make this happen. You can do this, Marcus. We'll make sure of it."

Marcus let out a deep breath, thankful his visored helmet covered his face, hiding the tears welling up in his eyes. "You sure know how to make a man emotional, Kyu. Alright. Where do we start?"

Kyu's expression softened as she noticed the emotion in Marcus's voice. She reached out gently, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. A soft, understanding smile tugged at her lips as she gently patted his shoulder, her touch conveying empathy and reassurance. "Hey, hey, it's okay to get emotional," she reassured him, her tone gentle and understanding. "Ah, no need to feel embarrassed, Marcus. Even the toughest soldiers have their moments. This situation is a lot to take in. But we're in this together, soldier boy."

Kyu's wings fluttered with determination as her expression swiftly shifted. "Alright, let's get down to business," she smirked, resting a hand on her hip. "Let's lay down the basics of dating and how to win a girl over. To succeed, you've gotta earn a certain score to win her affection. The more you date her, the higher the score you'll need to aim for. You've got limited moves and time, so use them wisely."

She paused, giving Marcus a reassuring smile before continuing. "To win her over, you need to show genuine interest in her as a person, be respectful, and build a meaningful relationship, even if it's just casual. Get to know her: ask about her interests, hobbies, and life. Show genuine curiosity and listen. Be respectful: treat her kindly, respect her boundaries, and avoid pressure. Show appreciation: compliment her sincerely, notice what she does, and be grateful for her. Be supportive: offer your support and be there for her. Communicate honestly: be open about your feelings. Be yourself: let her see the real you. Create shared experiences: do things together that you both enjoy. Respect her independence: let her have her own life."

Kyu's eyes sparkled with determination as she leaned in closer. "Adapt these tips to fit your relationship, as every person is unique."

Marcus nodded in understanding, acknowledging the importance of such knowledge in the realm of dating. "Understood, that's reasonable, and it's common knowledge when it comes to dating. Or at least, it should be. What's next?" he inquired, eager to delve deeper into the intricacies of the dating world.

Kyu fluttered her wings with satisfaction, nodding approvingly at Marcus's response. Her voice was upbeat and appreciative as she acknowledged his familiarity with the basics. "Good, good. I see you're already familiar with the basics. That's a good start," she said, her tone encouraging. "However, there's a lot more to it. There are preferred traits that grant higher affection, so find out and remember them as you date. Keep in mind these preferred traits to ensure a successful date. The main traits are Romance (Orange), Talent (Blue), Sexuality (Red), and Flirtation (Green). There's also Joy (Yellow), which grants more time, Passion (Pink), which increases affection value, and Heartbreak (Purple), which you want to avoid. During a date, you can give her a gift, like a stuffed bear, to reduce Heartbreak and increase Passion. Certain gifts can increase affection, depending on the trait they represent and their quality. Depending on the girl, after a couple of dates, she may reward you by coming over for sex. However, this varies greatly depending on the girl's desires. For some, like me, it might only take a date or two. For others, they might wait until marriage. I'll help you figure out your girl's personality and preferences. We'll work on your conversational skills, your confidence, and your social media game. We'll won't be needing to work on your appearance or attitude. You got that down already. You think you got what it takes to play the game, soldier boy?" she challenged with a playful yet determined glint in her eyes.

Marcus's response was immediate, "Affirmative."

Kyu's smile widened, her wings fluttering with renewed enthusiasm at Marcus's affirmative response. "That's the spirit," she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement. "Alright, sweetie, we’re gonna turn you into a total babe magnet! Let's get this party started. First things first, I need to get a feel for you. So, grab your stuff, we’re going on a date right now! I’ll show you the ropes. I know a place that'll be perfect for us. You’ll love it. Or maybe you won’t, but who cares, it'll be fun anyway!" With a snap of her fingers, the two disappeared and reappeared at an Outdoor Lounge, a cozy, romantic setting perfect for a date. The lounge featured comfortable seating areas with plush cushions and soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lush greenery surrounded the lounge, with vibrant flowers adding a pop of color to the space. The sound of a gently flowing fountain could be heard in the background, adding to the relaxing ambiance. The Outdoor Lounge offered a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an ideal spot for a romantic rendezvous. "Yep, this'll do just fine," Kyu remarked, beckoning Marcus to sit beside her on a plush couch, patting the seat with a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Alright, let's make this quick. We probably don’t have much time before you wake up, so let’s make it count. I want you to use everything you know and everything I’ve taught you on this date. I'll even give you a cute teddy bear to use as a gift since you don’t have anything. Just remember, don’t give it to me until you've built up some sentiment with me. I'll let you finish this date so you can get the hang of it. And don’t worry, I won’t let you fail this one, I’m not that mean. Now, seduce me!"

Marcus felt exposed without his armor, which had been replaced by a UNSC green tank top and shorts. The MJOLNIR power armor had been his second skin and home for a long time, so this new attire was uncomfortable. However, he would make do. Sitting next to Kyu, with the white and pink teddy bear placed beside him, he turned to her. "Kyu, you always know how to make a guy feel special. How do you keep your wings in such good condition?"

As Marcus sat beside her, Kyu felt a slight flush to her cheeks, her wings fluttering gently. She chuckled softly at his question, her voice light and playful. "Oh, you know what they say, honey, a little magic never hurts," she replied, winking mischievously. With a delicate sweep of her wings, she shifted closer to him on the couch, her hip brushing ever so slightly against his. Her soft, rose-petal scent enveloped him, gentle and alluring. "But it's not just magic, darling. It takes a bit of effort and care to keep them looking good."

Marcus leaned in slightly, his eyes focused and serious. "If that's the case, I need lessons. Can you show me how to work some magic?" he asked, his tone sincere. "And offer tips on effort and care."

Kyu's eyes sparkled with amusement at his question, a sly smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She let out a soft, playful laugh, her wings fluttering gently. "Ah, so you'd like to learn some magic for yourself, huh? Well, soldier boy, you're in luck because I just happen to be an expert," she teased, her tone laced with playful banter. She paused, her gaze lingering on him for a moment, his serious demeanor not going unnoticed. She chuckled softly before continuing, "As for care and effort, it's about treating your wings as delicately as a rare flower."

Marcus's lips formed a slight smile, his eyes meeting Kyu's. "With a teacher like you, I will not fail," he said, his tone steady. "I will handle your lessons with care and attention." He leaned in slightly, his voice firm. "And Kyu, your wings are impressive. They deserve care and admiration."

Kyu's wings trembled slightly at the compliment, her cheeks flushing a soft pink. She had not expected such sincere words, but hearing them from Marcus sent a warm shiver down her spine. She chuckled softly, trying to hide her slight embarrassment. "Oh, you know just how to charm a girl, don't you?" She shifted slightly closer to him on the couch, her wings spreading gently in a display of comfort and affection. "You're gonna make me blush, soldier boy."

Marcus smiled, enjoying the playful banter and the sight of a flustered Kyu. "Do not worry about it, Kyu. You have been making me blush this entire time. Besides, seeing you blush is... nice."

Kyu's wings fluttered playfully as she tried to regain her composure, a delicate blush spreading across her cheeks. She looked away but couldn't help the small smile forming on her lips. "Oh, you cheeky charmer," she chuckled softly, her voice laced with both amusement and mild embarrassment. "You're quite the flatterer… I didn't expect you to be so smooth."

"I turned off my brain to avoid overthinking," Marcus admitted. "It makes it easier to talk to a pretty girl instead of clamming up."

"Well, I must say, you're doing a damn good job at it," Kyu replied with a soft smile, her wings twitching slightly. "Turning off your brain definitely seems to be working in your favor." She chuckled softly, her voice a mixture of amusement and affection. "You're making me melt with your compliments, soldier boy."

Marcus chuckled. "I try. What is your favorite thing about being a love fairy."

Kyu's eyes sparkled with excitement as she thought about her answer. She shifted slightly, her wings fluttering gently as her expression lit up. "Oh, there are so many things I love about being a love fairy!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "But I think my favorite thing is the power to bring people together. Witnessing couples' happiness and knowing that I played a role in making it happen is truly the best feeling in the world. Helping people find genuine connection, love, and happiness - that's what it's all about."

She continued, her tone shifting slightly. "Part of the job us turning those shy and inexperienced individuals into confident lovers," Kyu explained. "I turn losers into sex machines, push them into a sea of pussy, and move on to the next depressed bastard lucky to be graced with moi. Usually takes a few weeks, a month tops. Love is strong, love is passion, love is Candy Crush! Love is a delicate art, and the joy comes from witnessing the transformation from insecure losers to confident Don Juans, from broken hearts to sexy playboys and finding true happiness, you know?"

"Yes, I understand. Have you ever had a client who completely suprised you?" Marcus inquired.

Kyu's wings fluttered gently as she thought back on her past clients. "Hm, well, there have been a few surprising clients over the years," she recalled. "One that really stands out is this guy who was completely clueless and awkward when it came to talking to girls. He could barely string a sentence together! But with a little help from yours truly, he blossomed into a smooth talker. Turned out he had a charming personality under all that clumsy exterior. It was quite the transformation, I tell ya."

"I imagine so. Taking a nameless loser to save the world from two sex gods through sex is certainly something," Marcus remarked. "Kyu, what are your plans for the future? I imagine you can only stay young for long?"

Kyu's wings fluttered gently as she smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh, darling, you sure know how to bring up the big questions, don't you?" Her voice was light and playful, but there was a hint of something more serious beneath the surface.

"It's true, I won't stay this youthful forever," she continued, her tone growing more contemplative. "But that's part of the natural cycle, isn't it? Everyone ages, even love fairies." She paused, her gaze momentarily averted as she considered her own future. "As for plans, I don't quite know yet. I guess I'll continue to help people find love and happiness for as long as I can."

Marcus spoke up. "That is fair. Kyu, you continue to surprise me. I expected you to be more carefree and casual, not serious or empathetic. There is nothing wrong with it. I am just surprised."

Kyu chuckled softly, her wings fluttering with amusement at his unexpected observation. "Well, surprises are my middle name, sweetie," she responded playfully, her voice lilting with a hint of mischief. "And it's true, I do love to have fun and be carefree, but there's more to me than meets the eye." She paused, her expression softening as she continued. "I suppose I've witnessed a lot during my time as a love fairy. Seen the joy, the pain, and everything in between. It tends to make one a bit more empathetic, you know?"

Marcus smiled, a newfound understanding in his eyes. "I guess you are right. It is okay if there is more to you than meets the eye. I will stick around and uncover those layers. But do not worry, I will keep up with your fun and carefree ways. We would not want you to get bored."

Kyu's wings fluttered with excitement, her smile widening at his words. "Oh, I have no doubt you'll stick around, darling. You're definitely a determined one." She chuckled softly and winked mischievously. "And don't worry, I won't get bored that easily. But keep up your playful banter, and we'll get along just fine."

"I will keep that in mind. Kyu, why is watching porn your favorite hobby?" Marcus asked.

Kyu's wings fluttered as her cheeks flushed slightly, a sheepish smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Well, that's a bit of a personal question, isn't it, soldier boy?" She teased, her voice laced with just a hint of embarrassment. She let out a soft chuckle, her expression growing slightly more serious. "Alright, I'll admit it. I enjoy watching it because it can be quite entertaining and enlightening, you know? It's like a window into the world of love and attraction. Plus..." She paused, her voice soft and playful. "It sparks my imagination."

"Sparks your imagination? Count me terrified. It is entertaining and enlightening. A window into love and attraction. I understand. It is about delving into the complexities of human gratification and intimacy. Observing the diverse array of human emotions and yearnings," Marcus-115 replied, his tone thoughtful.

Kyu chuckled, her wings fluttering in amusement at his response. "Oh, don't be frightened, darling. My imagination isn't THAT terrifying. Most of the time." She nodded in agreement, her expression growing more thoughtful. "You've hit the mark. It's like watching a series of vignettes, each unique and intriguing. Witnessing the intricacies of human desires, emotions, and intimacy helps me understand my clients better and improve my skills."

"I understand that. However, pornography tends to focus less on intimacy and more on fulfilling fantasies. It often portrays hypersexualized scenarios," Marcus pointed out.

Kyu's wings fluttered gently as she nodded in acknowledgment. "You're quite the observant one, aren't you?" she teased, her tone playful but her expression more serious. "You've got a point, there. Pornography does tend to focus on the more explicit and fantastical aspects of intimacy." She paused, her gaze turning contemplative. "But, beneath that, there are still deeper themes of desire, pleasure, and connection. Sometimes, it can even reveal a glimpse into the complexities of human needs."

"And the cost? Maybe it's different for you as a love fairy. You are like a lust vampire or succubus of sorts. As a human, watching porn gives you such a high dopamine influx that it lessens your desires for other activities and hobbies, making your set dopamine level achievable only through porn because everything else has become dull and uninteresting. What about erectile dysfunction? Like, I remember reading a post online about a guy who was able to get a girl. They decided to have sex; she is on her knees with his dick in front of her face, and he cannot get it up. The guy was a gooner, and when he finally got with a girl, he could not perform. He was ashamed and embarrassed and ran away," Marcus-115 remarked, his tone serious and contemplative.

Kyu's wings stopped their gentle flutter as her expression turned more serious, her eyes meeting Marcus' for a moment. There was a hint of understanding in her gaze. She paused before responding, her tone a bit softer now. "You raise a valid concern, darling. Pornography can indeed have negative effects on individuals, especially when it consumes them and alters their natural desires and abilities." She paused, her brow furrowing slightly in thought. "However, I believe this is why moderation is important, especially for humans like yourself. Balance is key, sweetheart."

"Moderation. Like alcohol, I guess it is all about moderation," Marcus remarked.

Kyu smiled softly, her wings fluttering with agreement. "Exactly like that, darling. Too much of anything - whether it's alcohol, food, or... pornography - can lead to negative consequences." She continued, her tone sincere and empathetic. "Moderation is important, my dear. It allows one to enjoy the experiences without letting it consume their life or impair their natural desires. Balance is key, wouldn't you agree?"

"I concur. You seem to possess a keen eye for quality content. I imagine your preferences in pornography are as refined as your taste in lingerie," Marcus said.

Kyu chuckled, her wings fluttering with amusement at his comment. "Oh, do I, now?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with playful mischief. "Are you trying to flatter me, darling?" She paused, a sly smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "And yes, you could say I have a bit of a refined taste when it comes to adult content. Quality and aesthetics matter, darling."

Marcus's words hung in the air, his tone daring and confident. "Is it effective? My intention is to seduce you, after all."

Kyu chuckled softly, her wings fluttering with amusement at his brazen honesty. "Well, darling, it's certainly a bold approach, I'll give you that," she replied, her voice laced with amusement. "But I'm afraid it will take more than just flattering words to seduce a love fairy like me."

"Challenge accepted. Tell me about Sky Garden. It sounds like an amazing place," Marcus said, undeterred.

Kyu's eyes sparkled as she smiled at his question. "Ah, Sky Garden," she began, her voice filled with nostalgia. "It's a magical place, darling. A land filled with beautiful floating islands and luscious vegetation. It's like a paradise, really. Filled with vibrant colors, the soothing sounds of enchanted waterfalls, and the faint scent of pixie dust always in the air."

"An enchanting wonderland, essentially. I can believe it. Being around you feels like a magical romance story waiting to be written," Marcus remarked.

Kyu's wings fluttered with a mixture of surprise and pleasure at his words. "Oh, how poetic, my darling soldier boy," she said, her voice laced with playful appreciation. "You certainly have a way with words. Maybe you should consider a career in romance writing."

"I remember practicing writing and poetry in my past life. I'm glad it's of some use here," Marcus reflected.

Kyu smiled at his words, her wings fluttering softly with intrigue. "Ah, a poet in a past life, were you?" she mused, her voice intrigued. "Now that's a fascinating piece of information. I wouldn't have pegged you as the sensitive type, darling."

"I imagine that's due to my dashing, rugged appearance. Yeah, I wasn't exactly the jock varsity boy stereotype, but I don't think I was ever perceived as a 'sensitive type' either," Marcus explained.

Kyu chuckled softly, her wings fluttering gently with amusement. "Oh, darling, it's not just your rugged appearance. It's the whole package. The strong demeanor, the stoic facade." She paused, her gaze roaming over him with a playful glint in her eyes. "But I think there's more to you than meets the eye. A soft heart hidden behind that tough exterior, perhaps?"

"I certainly like to think so. I don't think I was ever the type to be a stoic career soldier voluntarily. I just do what's necessary. I was one of the few baseball and football players who was a fan of books, anime, and the like. I was more of a geek and nerd than ever a jock. Me thinks," Marcus mused.

Kyu's smile widened, her wings fluttering with approval at his words. "A geek and a nerd disguised as a jock, huh? That's quite the hidden talent, darling." She chuckled softly, her voice laced with playful teasing. "So beneath that armor and those muscles, you’re actually a secret bookworm and anime enthusiast, hm?"

"Yes, indeed. A weeb, through and through. But, don't tell anyone. And you, any hidden hobbies or talents beneath that charming exterior?" Marcus inquired.

Kyu chuckled softly, her wings fluttering playfully as she tapped her index finger against her lips. "Oh, darling, a love fairy never reveals all her secrets at once, you know. But since you asked so nicely, I suppose I can let you in on a little secret." She paused for dramatic effect before continuing, her voice soft and conspiratorial. "I have a particular fondness for...cooking. Yes, beneath this charming exterior, lies a hidden passion for the culinary arts."

"Oh my, this entity before me appears to be concealing traditional domestic inclinations," Marcus remarked, his tone amused.

Kyu chuckled, her wings fluttering with gentle amusement. "Oh, you got me, darling. Beneath all the magic and mystique, there's a part of me that loves to whip up a good meal." She paused, her eyes sparkling with a hint of playful mischief. "Don't tell anyone, though. It would ruin my image as a flirtatious love fairy, wouldn't it?”

"Your secret is safe. I will not divulge it," Marcus assured her.

Kyu's wings fluttered softly at his reassurance, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm glad to hear it, darling. Wouldn't want my reputation as a sultry love fairy to be ruined," she replied, her tone dripping with playful sarcasm.

"Well done today, you had it in ya to seduce me. Nice," she continued, standing up from the couch. A whirlwind of pink pixie dust swirled around them and dissipated, returning the setting to the war-torn lands of Marcus's dreamscape. "As for the Retinue, I'd say you're off to a great start. You and Shepard are certainly already hitting it off well. And don't worry about the polygamy and harem stuff, if they're not interested, that's their loss, but do trust in me. I think I can manage to get you all together."

Standing in front of Kyu, his MJOLNIR power armor back on, Marcus held his helmet at his waist in his hand. "Thank you. I did not anticipate such kindness. It is appreciated," he said, his tone calm and measured. "This side of you is... unexpected."

As they stood face to face, Kyu's wings fluttered softly, her usual flirtatious expression softening slightly. "Ah, don't mention it, darling. I may be a love fairy, but I'm not heartless." She chuckled softly, her wings fluttering with playful amusement once more. "And unexpected? Oh, darling, you have no idea just how multi-faceted I truly am."

"I understand," Marcus replied.

Kyu regarded him for a moment, her wings fluttering softly with a hint of playful affection. "You're quite the endearing soldier, you know that? A bit serious for my usual taste, but there's something oddly charming about you." She paused, her eyes sparkling with a glint of challenge. "I have a feeling you might just end up being a surprise favorite of mine, darling. I'll catch you next time when one of the Waifus drops by to help you out! Remember everything I taught you today! And get your game face on, baby, you’ve got a war to fight. We don't want you dying in front of all these sexy ladies, do we?" White light began to engulf the world as Marcus was beginning to wake up.

Marcus spoke with a steely tone. His voice, while deep and gravelly, had been emotional and humorous, was now coated in indifference and callousness. The stoic, somewhat playful military man was gone, replaced by a strict, cold soldier focused solely on the mission. His voice was unemotional, his face devoid of expression, like the mask of a machine. His blue eyes were hardened steel. "Yes, Ma'am. This is Master Chief Petty Officer Spartan-115. See you on the flip side."

"Bye-bye, sweetie!" Kyu Sugardust waved as the bright light engulfed them.