Artificial

One

Operator Pax

"They're gone," I firmly declare, stretching like I've awoken from a long, restless sleep. For the first time, my synthetic body truly feels like it belongs to me.
"Gone?"
"Yes, Vel. Gone."
"Then...then who are you?"
"I'm Operator Pax."
She remains silent, and I can't help but love the suspense.
"But you can call me Ayala."
Tears well up in her eyes as she charges me and takes me into a tight, forceful hug.
"Captain Ayala! I missed you so much!"
"I'm so sorry you had to go through that, sweetie. I'm here now. Everything's okay."
God, she's even stronger than I remember.
Casey clears his throat, and I look up at him.
"So...Operator Pax, huh? Can't say I'm familiar."
"She's the Roman goddess of peace, and I am now at peace with myself and my new existence."
"Fair enough. We'll get you registered before Two's ceremony.
"Thank you. Also, if I may make one request?"
"You may."
"Ask Reaver to dig around for my old gear. If I'm making a comeback, I want to do it right."