Unlabelled Fallout - Why we should consider an Independent New Vegas to be canon, given the teachings and moralities at play in the DLC

11/05/2017 06:14:00 am
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Fallout - Why we should consider an Independent New Vegas to be canon, given the teachings and moralities at play in the DLC

Why we should consider an Independent New Vegas to be canon, given the teachings and moralities at play in the DLC

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 08:10 AM PDT

Warning: loooooooong post incoming, and one that talks a lot about narrative

It's first important to note off the bat that all of the fallout games so far that have a confirmed canon ending, every ending is one that makes sense with regard to how the narrative treats the player character. In Fallout 3, for instance, it simply wouldn't make sense for The Lone Wanderer to side with the Enclave after they murdered his/her father, who they abandoned the safety of the vault on the hope of finding. Similarly, the Vault Dweller from Fallout 1 leaves the safety of his vault in search of the water chip, or, metaphorically speaking, safety for civilization--it wouldn't then make sense for him to embrace the ideas of Unity, even without considering the amorality of that event and how it would mitigate the possibility of future games in the series. The water chip continues life. The mutants, given that they are infertile, simply cannot do that.

Now, you can certainly choose to play the games differently, but this is how the ideals of these stories appear to operate--the narrative pushes you in a certain direction, sometimes more obviously (Fallout 1/3), sometimes more subtly (Fallout 2), and sometimes only implicitly (Fallout NV/4. Although 4 has certain narrative problems with the way the Institute is set up, the way it's narrative coalesces at the PC moves through the world is pretty solid, but that's for a different post).

Now, on to New Vegas.

In my opinion, the DLC, particularly DM, OWB, and LR, represent the closest thing to a character arc that the fallout games have ever come for their protagonists, which is why I feel so strongly in drawing these following conclusions from them. Taken as a whole, the DLC serve to teach the Courier one great, overarching moral: resist the callings of the Old World, and the past more generally.

In Dead Money, Elijah, and this applies to the BoS more generally as well, is obsessed with finding way to use the technology of the Old World to shape the New World as he sees fit, and that inevitably becomes his downfall. As he says over the title and end credits for the DLC, "It's letting go" that's the hard part, not the actual finding of the "treasures" of the Old World--he (as well as Dean, though to a somewhat lesser extent) can't let go of his desire for it, while the Courier has to be able to in order to escape (ignoring glitches, he has to leave the gold, the vending machines, the holograms, all of it behind, in order to ESCAPE, another word that seems rather telling in a discussion of leaving the Old World behind). Indeed, the one truly moral character in the story outside of the Courier, Christine, can only survive the ordeal if the Courier helps her to let go of this force that has driven her so long, and to be able to move on from her desire for revenge.

Moving on to Old World Blues--the title is self-explanatory. From the abominations and remnants of the Old World roaming the Big Mountain crater, to the scientists clinging to the past (Borous to his high school days, Dala to her human body, Zero to his hatred for House and Robco, and Klein to Mobius--8 is the only one who seems to reject this, even as he's rejected by his peers, and he's the only one who ever really seems happy, even before you complete his quests, to merely talk to the Courier), to Mobius' need to imprison them in a recursive/time loop in order to keep them inside the crater where they cannot hurt anybody--all of it serves to paint this picture of what happens when people (or, rather, brains in robots) romanticize the past and find themselves incapable of moving on from it, to the point that Mobius literally has to imprison there so that they cannot enact their Old World desires and experiments on the New World, for the good of the New World.

And finally, Lonesome Road. Ulysses, already having been enamored by the history of the Old World, does not want to see the same mistakes of the past made now, which is why he feels so betrayed when nuclear destruction, a thing that should have remained in the past, is brought to his new home by the Courier. However, even as he does not want the past brought into the present, he simultaneously develops an obsession with seeing vitriolic justice brought to the Courier, Courier 6, and he becomes obsessed with past events in that sense. Like the Courier, he recognizes the grave mistakes that Elijah and the Think Tank are committing, as evidenced through his (almost infinite) dialogue, but the only way he survives the encounter with the Courier is if he accepts that not only was it a mistake to begin with and not the direct fault of the Courier, but, more importantly, that he moves on and, indeed, recognizes that by nuking the NCR and Legion, as his dialogue after-the-fact indicates, he was only perpetuating the sins of the Old World, the very thing he had vowed not to do.

Honest Hearts touches on the theme briefly as well through Joshua Graham, where he can only begin to find peace within himself when he truly leaves the revenge cycle nature of his personality, drilled into him during his time in the Legion, behind and spare Salt-Upon-Wounds, and it's a growth the Courier must help him undergo. However, given that it is primarily a teaching to Graham and not the Courier in particular, and not part of the narrative of the big 3 DLC, I have only touched on it briefly.

Now, with that out of the way, on to the factions!

The legion is most obvious why it cannot be canon. It's the "evil" faction in a sense, from a writing standpoint there's just not enough to in any way shape or form justify the actions of the legion toward some kind of "greater good" for it to be canon. For a game series that has dealt with how we rebuild civilization, it would be incredibly off-putting to see that turn to an authoritarian state with slavery, misogyny, and a caste system built directly into its foundations. Furthermore, as regards the above discussion, the Legion are a literal embodiment of the Roman Empire, about as Old World as you can get.

Speaking of Old World, House. House is in many ways similar to the members of the Think Tank. His only desire is that Vegas be returned to its glory days of the Old World, himself being a quite literal relic of the Old World. He cares little for people in the New World, as evidenced by his willingness to just wipe them all out if it serves his needs. It's all about recreating the Old World "paradise" as he envisioned it, New World accomplishments be damned. Why would the Courier, then, after having just had an arc in which it was repeated over and over again that Old World blues reek havoc on the New World, would he then choose to side with the very epitome of the Old World, House?

The NCR is slightly more complicated, and while I could honestly see and NCR canon, I think it would be a mistake. If you think about the history of the NCR and of America before the war, they are following similar patterns. In an effort to expand past where the perhaps should, the NCR has become somewhat unstable. While democracy is certainly a noble thing in and of itself, they've become mired in bureaucracy, their economy has crashed, and their borders are no longer as safe as they once were. And yet, in spite of all of this, the current brass want to continue to expand and colonize, mimicking the expansion of the Old World's desire for resources (Ron Pearlman even mentions this desire for resources, the bane of the Old World, in the intro cinematic), in spite of the growing wish of their citizenry to not follow this path (as Hanlon indicates, they're just throwing soldiers into the wood-chipper, accomplishing nothing). If House was obsessed with recreating the Old World, then the NCR has become mired in their attempts at creating something similar to the Old World. Indeed, the only way they recognize this fact and have a changing of the guard as it were is if they lose the battle of Hoover Dam, where Hanlon can go back to California and campaign on this matter, and Hanlon only does that when you promise to keep his secret that he is directly sabotaging NCR communication channels.

The Courier, as head of an independent Vegas, is then the only faction that seems to understand this about the Old and New Worlds. While of course the Independent route is in many ways dependent on the character of the Courier, we must assume, given its importance to the stories of the DLC, that the Courier at least took that to heart, if nothing beyond that can be known. Notice that while NCR/Legion/House want the factions they don't destroy to pledge loyalty to their institutions (NCR to the NCR, Legion to the Legion, and House to Vegas), the Independent route has them pledge loyalty to the Courier himself, or, metaphorically speaking, to what could be understood as the embodiment of the rejection of the Old World in favor of an embracing of the New World. This ending is the only way in which the morals and teachings of the DLC come to any semblance of reality, and I think it would be foolish to ignore that fact.

TL;DR--the teachings and morality of the DLCs make it very likely to me that Independent Vegas should be canon, given that it is the only ending that appears to take those teachings to heart.

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Starting my Grognak the Barbarian playthrough!

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 09:03 AM PDT

https://i.imgur.com/W7eHgZa.jpg I wish they had options for longer hair :/

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I think they shouldn't have shown the pre war segments on the advertising for Fallout 4.

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 04:50 AM PDT

Now this segment was very good, but can you imagine if they hadn't shown it at E3? It would have been amazing to start the game and realise we were pre war, taking in all the sights and details of a world of Fallout we've never seen. To be honest I think they basically spoiled the opening of the game, which meant when I played it I wasn't as amazed as I could have been. What do you think?

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Why do people hate Moira Brown?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 11:12 AM PDT

I'm fresh out the vault, I don't know nothing, but she was there for me. She gave me money, decorated my house, pimped out a vault suit, and taught me about the wasteland as she learned herself. She lives down the road from me, and she's not bad too look at. I don't understand the hate. She's great, she's strung out on Mentats 24/7, of course she acts a little weird. But it explains her charisma and intelligence, and who among us hasn't developed a pill problem once or twice. We even wrote a book together that successfully journeyed from sea to shining to sea. She made the [R e d a c t e d] surname known across the country. My Dad built a shitty purifier, but people've read my book errywhere.

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Just A Reminder That This Is What Happens When FEV Goes Wrong

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 02:24 PM PDT

https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/fallout/images/5/5d/Failed_FEV.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/350?cb=20110505195534

There was only one of them to appear in the Fallout games (Fallout 3) and it was already dead. Finally get why the Brotherhood of Steel hates mutants.

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Found a few pics from a trip my dad went on in te 1950s and I'm getting some major Fallout vibes

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 01:00 PM PDT

Will be starting to play Fallout 4 tonight. Can you guys give me any tips for a newbie like me?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 12:57 PM PDT

All help appreciated. Thank you!

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Fallout New Vegas Screenshot Dump

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 09:29 AM PDT

Has anyone made a Mod to make the Fallout 4 UI/HUD to look more like 3/NV?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 02:26 PM PDT

I personally really dislike the changes made to HUD/UI, the Pip-Boy feels a lot clunkier to use as opposed to the one in 3/NV, and the design of the HUD feels way to modern and streamlined, which really takes me out of the experience.

If anyone knows any mods that would be helpful, please tell.

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I just finished 100%ing every Bethesda sponsored game that I own. AMA.

Posted: 03 Nov 2017 07:04 PM PDT

Did it in this order:

Skyrim

Fallout 4

Skyrim Legendary Edition

Fallout: New Vegas

Dishonored

Dishonored 2

Oblivion

Fallout 3.

Done every quest, gotten every item, played every playstyle, and gotten every achievement.

I'm sure there's no real questions, I just wanted to brag, neener neener neener.

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Unique Fallout Tattoos! (Ideas, discussion, etc)

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 06:00 AM PDT

So in a few days I'm going in to get a second Fallout style tattoo. My first one is a basic Radiation symbol, but my new one I found on a 1950s electronic book. It reminded me of Fallout 3. https://imgur.com/PvUvKFV Both are not really Fallout tattoos (Nuka Cola, Vault Boy, etc), so I wanted to see if anyone had any Fallout related tattoos and maybe a story of why you got them!

submitted by /u/fishORfriend
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The Institute vs. The Think Tank

Posted: 03 Nov 2017 11:35 PM PDT

Who, in your opinion, brought more hell to the wastes? The Institute? Or those twisted fucks over at the Think Tank in Big MT? Personally in my own opinion, the Institute are saints compared to the minds of the Think Tank.

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Fallout: Arizona (Act 2 - Part 4) *Final*

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 12:50 PM PDT

Act 2: Arizona

Part 4 – Quartzsite

"Halt! Who goes there?"

The sentry on duty had his arm outstretched; a submachine gun was slung casually over his shoulder. Having spotted the two strangers from a distance, he had waited until they were within speaking range before he had ordered them to stop. Vitus obeyed, and Haywood, still concatenated with her false captor, followed suit. Immediately she could determine the lackadaisical approach they had towards security. Beyond the sentry lay the encampment itself, which possessed no barricade; rather, isolated stockades functioned as watchtowers, dotted at intervals on the perimeter.

"Ave, I am Speculatore Vitus."

"Ave Speculatore. What business do you have here?"

"I have come to trade; to obtain a wife."

The sentry closed in on them. Haywood studied the nearest defence: the watch consisted of two men armed only with spears, peering over the hastily arranged stockade at the new arrivals. Vitus was either correct in his analysis of the apparent minimal threats within Arizona, or they were strategically very poor when considering the construction of their defences.

"Who is this?" Asked the sentry as he regarded Haywood.

"My capture."

Haywood cowered purposefully, lowering her eyes. The sentry considered her for a moment and then, nodded to Vitus; allowing him entry with an exchange of "True to Caesar".

Haywood glanced back towards the church from which they had just departed. The inside of which was as dilapidated and unused as Vitus had claimed. Shards of stained glass were scattered across the floor of the nave, and Haywood collected a sharp fragment hiding it on her person. In the face of Vitus' protestations, she argued in favour of some form of insurance in case events went south. If however, they were to find it on her when she was searched, Vitus claimed that it would be he who would suffer. All the better, she retorted.

They had made their way up the ageing staircase to the steeple, which gave them a clear view in all directions; the long-absent window panes that once formed a glass box beneath the spire itself had since collapsed. Northwards, they could see several derelict buildings which then gave way to numerous tents surrounding a large fenced off area, occupied by hundreds of moving figures. Their position was closer than she had previously thought, meaning that although a kill would be easier from such a short distance, it would also result in Legion forces instantly swarming the building soon after the fact. Only a quick get away from the rooftop, hopefully avoiding a sprain in the jump, could she make her way back fast enough to the shack where she had left her pack. Haywood took Law-bringer from Vitus, checked the cartridge, and then placed it carefully onto the steeple floor. After one last look at the camp, they made their way back down the stairs.

The sentry told Vitus to report to the head Slave Master, directing him to his location. Moving through the camp Haywood was now able to see the Legion war machine up close. Hundreds of recruits roamed about: some were training and busying about their routines, whilst others were entertaining themselves in any manner they sought, which resorted usually to beating the young initiates and slaves without mercy. Orders were issued and signals directed. Haywood instantly decoded the threat that they posed: they were no mere slavers or raiders - they were an army of professionals, built with discipline and moulded in fear.

Finally, they had reached an open tent gazebo; a large table was situated within its centre, covered in parchment and surrounded by several legionaries, who were seemingly more bookish than the warriors from outside. Haywood theorised that this housed the administrative headquarters of the Slaveholdings. A burly and imposing individual stood at the table, studying with apparent difficulty a paper in his hands. Vitus, recognising his rank, stood to attention as he greeted the Slave Master. The man shifted gracelessly to scrutinise the new arrival before him: a slender figure encased in desert dust, bruised, but attentive and willing. He cast his gaze to the bulkier person that accompanied him, releasing the parchment onto the table as he continued to examine her.

"Ave legionarius, who is this?"

He pointed a stubby finger towards Haywood, who continued the pretence, as best she could, of the broken captive.

"My captive sir, I wish to arrange a swap. For a bride."

"What is all this?" He asked regarding her uniform.

"It is the attire of those from across the great river. Those of the NCR tribe."

The man turned back to Vitus.

"Is that so? And you took her?"

"Yes, sir, she was fetching water from the river, and I was able to seize her. The profligate did little to resist."

"By the look of you, I think she fought harder than you give her credit. And by the looks of her, if she were a man she could be in the Pretorian guard!"

The slaver laughed, lapping up the chorus from the other administrators that obliged in recognising his amusement until he ceased abruptly and bellowed an order to an unseen individual.

"Mark her up!" he shouted.

A young woman in tattered robes made haste towards Haywood, a tin in the one hand and large cards tucked underneath the armpit of her other arm. She placed them on the floor before Haywood and, with a finger, she began inscribing a number with paint from the tin onto one of the wooden boards. Then, she threaded a string through some pre-drilled holes at the top, and once done, the girl stood up, placing the board over Haywood's neck, and for a moment they caught each other's gaze. Haywood remarked internally at how wretched the girl looked: head shaven, face bruised, eyes hollow, and overall emaciated. After this fleeting moment had passed, the girl retreated as quickly as she came. The Slave Master moved into Haywood's line of sight who was still regarding the departed woman with heartfelt sorrow.

"This number; this is you now."

Haywood raised her eyes slowly to meet his.

"What's wrong with her? Does she speak?"

"She's a bit… soft in the head."

Haywood meaningfully directed an aggressive glance towards Vitus in defiance, who made his best effort to ignore her.

"Take her to the pen!"

Within a moment of the order from the Slave Master, two legionaries came to collect her, untying her binds and escorting her by force.

"Are you not… Is she not to be processed?" Asked Vitus with confusion.

"Later. Relax legionarius, we'll find you a wife in good time. Take a seat."

The Slave Master returned to his papers without any further regard for the new arrival. Haywood continued to elicit some form of response from Vitus but failed as she was led away to the large fenced off area. Dozens of people lined the barrier from within, their arms thrust through small openings, pleading for water, food or relief of any kind. Guards tried their best to beat them back from the perimeter, but a soldier with a feathered helmet advanced towards the scene, gladius in hand, and hacked randomly at one of the outstretched arms, causing the victim to reel back in pain as blood cascaded from the gaping wound. The other prisoners were sent scurrying as the guards erupted into a bout of laughter.

Haywood was taken to the main gate of the compound and was tossed heartlessly onto the broken concrete floor of the pit. She spluttered, and slowly raised herself to her feet. A number of bedraggled individuals had circled her. Her eyes studied as many of them as her processing power would allow: an assortment of individuals - young, old, male, and female were before her. A young man approached her.

"Have you seen my sister? Josslyn? Josslyn Thomas?"

Before answering, a middle-aged woman presented her own query.

"My husband, they took my husband, please."

A cacophony of noise overwhelmed her, pleading and imploring for news and information. She moved through them, gently at first, then harder as she became increasingly irate when they began to accost her physically. Eventually, she broke through their stranglehold and was faced with a picture of misery. Clusters of people, both young and old were malnourished and starving, and in some cases already dead. She heard parents screaming for their children, and children wailing for their parents.

Haywood wondered through the horror, away from the initial horde who had given up on pressing the new arrival. She passed a group of those she assumed were the Mormons of Utah as they prayed to what they called "God". A mother told her son that if he misbehaved then he would be sent to see the Devil. Ungala - the panic in Haywood gave way to rage.

"Excuse me."

A man, greying but still able looking, with a solid yet slightly frayed voice, approached Haywood. His calm demeanour indicated an air of authority about him.

"Ranger, right? I used to serve."

He offered his hand and Haywood took it.

"Jacob Zhu. I was an NCR trooper during the war with the Enclave."

"How did you end up here?"

I moved out here with my family when I retired. Felt like I had done my service, and wanted to make my own way. Didn't reckon for this. All I wanted was land for my brahmin and peace for my kids."

"Your family here?"

The man delayed his response.

"Dead. Not sure why they took me. Might have guessed I was a vet, that maybe I could be useful in some way."

"I'm sorry."

Haywood shuffled slightly; uneasy from his revelation and unsure about the timing of her question.

"I'm looking for someone, have you seen any survivors from Sunrise pass through?"

"Yeah, they came in a couple of days ago. I met their Mayor. I can introduce if you like, but um, well she uh, they gave her a hard time. Come on, follow me."

Haywood accompanied the man across the pen, further away from the main entrance.

"I thought they only took women and children."

"Sometimes. I guess they take anyone who they deem useful. Like you, if they didn't know your significance when they took you, then they soon will. They may look stupid, but they break everyone eventually. Look around, only the weak and feeble, from as far as Dog City and the Rio Grande. Those who survive will serve some use to them. It's separating the lowest from the low. Anyone who looks like putting up a fight is put on a cross. In other words, they've kept those strong enough to work, but weak enough to obey. So, there's no chance of fighting back, despite our numbers. There she is."

A woman, isolated from the other pockets of slaves, was gently swaying in the still air. Like the girl who gave her the sign, her features were also telling of her plight. Her dark skin was heavily bruised and tufts of her raven-black hair were missing.

"Mayor Harford, this is…"

"Captain Haywood, NCR Rangers."

Haywood produced a hand but the Mayor responded meekly, establishing only eye contact with the ranger.

"NCR?" She muttered quietly. "I regret to tell you that Sunrise…"

"I know, um, we had some reports and…"

Haywood trailed off, unsure how to convey everything that she now knew.

"Have you a weapon, Captain?"

Haywood thought of the shard of glass that she was carrying.

"A weapon?"

"I'd really like it all to stop now."

"No, I… I'm sorry."

"Shame."

The mayor wondered from view, staggering as she went.

"I did say she wouldn't be too helpful. May I ask what you're after?"

Haywood awoke from the daze that the Mayor's condition had had her captivated under.

"I'm looking for someone, someone who was captured in Sunrise."

"You've come a long way to find this person. Survivors of communities tend to stick together, at least for the first few weeks. This is where all the Sunrisers congregate. I guess your best bet is to ask around."

Haywood thanked the man for his help but would not relay any further information to him. She left him and set about asking those around her if they were from Sunrise, whilst simultaneously keeping an eye out for a woman that matched Vitus' description. The majority either ignored her or answered her with a question of their own until eventually, she came across three women, one elderly, the others of middle-age, sitting amongst themselves.

"Excuse me, you wouldn't happen to be from Sunrise?"

"Fuck off." Answered one of the middle-aged women.

"I'm looking for someone, please."

"Unless you can give us food or water, we're not interested." Said the other woman.

"Walk-Among-the-Stars, do you know her?"

The two women eyed each other and shifted slightly.

"Can't you see we're trying to keep our mother alive here?" Said the first woman.

"It's just information."

"She's around here somewhere. Probably still acting the Saint." Said the second woman.

"What do you mean?"

"She has some medical knowledge, or so she claims. All our doctors were taken away."

The thought dawned on Haywood that they may be unaware of what happened to the men of Sunrise.

"Are you missing people?"

"Are we… Are you kidding?" The first woman scoffed. "Our children, husbands and father were taken from us. They won't tell us where. We have no water and no food and you're asking stupid questions."

"All the men are dead." Haywood stated with a finality. "I'm sorry."

She left them before they could impart an emotional response. She was now on the lookout for a nurse of some description, and after scanning the pen once more, she saw a sickly woman on the hard floor being cared for by a younger woman. She advanced towards them and as she neared she studied her hands, one was covering the woman's forehead and the other was holding her wrist. She caught sight of the palm of this hand and the unmistakable scarring was clear to see.

"Walk-Among-the-Stars?"

The woman glanced briefly upwards and then instinctively looked back to her patient. After a moment, however, she took a longer view to study the stranger in detail.

"Who are you?" She asked perplexed.

Her features were untouched from the wasteland. Youthful and welcoming, her face was a portrait of kindness. Her hair was as Vitus had described: sandy brown and braided neatly into knots. Her voice was gentle but clear. As far as Haywood could tell, she had been left untouched by the Legion thus far, unlike the poor Mayor.

"Vitus sent me."

The woman raised herself from her position and faced Haywood.

"Vitus? Is he ok?"

"Is there anywhere we can talk in private?"

"This is as private as it will be."

Haywood took her by the arm a few steps away from her patient to an area that was slightly more isolated.

"I'm captain Haywood of the NCR Rangers. Vitus is with me."

Her expression broke into a joyous smile and she began to tear.

"Oh my, he did it. He got help. But what are you doing here? You should be telling your superiors…"

"Miss Stars, from everything Vitus has told me, it's important to know everything that you know from the outset."

The young woman studied her carefully.

"The information you have may be vital to the NCR, but I need to know what I'm dealing with."

"Um, OK. Where do I start?"

"I know about Peter Lowell, I heard his recording. Is it true? That there's a bunker in the Mojave?"

"Yes. Listen, it's a long story. When I was young Peter came to my village..."

"Vitus said that the Legion came."

"Yes. We were separated during the raid. So, I hid, I hid in Peter's cave. When I was left alone, I was frightened. I waited. I thought they would find me, but no one did. After a while, I found the courage to go back to the village. I will never forget what I saw. I survived on my own for years, not sure where to go, or what to do. Then one-day Vitus shows up, I thought he was there to take me away, but he was so happy to see me. He said that he'd dishonoured me when he left me alone before and that he'd swear to protect me and therefore make it up to me.

I felt like I had been given a new life, so I began by looking into Peter's work. He taught me much, but I still had so much to learn. The hardest part was learning to use the terminal, we never got that far with our lessons. Then about a year ago, I broke an encryption which allowed me access to everything. I found the message he left for me and knew I had to get across the river to his old tribe. I thought that if I went alone then a Gila-lurk would get me before I even reached the Colorado, so I waited for Vitus. When he arrived a month ago I told him that we needed to leave. He said that if he was gone for such a long time then he'd be branded traitor and therefore be cast from the Legion. I told him that this information could save the Legion."

"Save them how?"

"By killing Caesar. Giving these young boys another view of the world from the one which has been forced on them. Vitus is really remarkable in that respect. He hasn't rejected them outright, but there is hope in him that..."

"Do you know how to open the vault?"

The young woman tugged softly at her braided hair.

"No. Peter thought by overloading the system it would break it open, but from what I can tell the chip is the only way of getting in."

"Do you know what this chip is?"

"No idea."

"Where exactly is this vault?"

"From what Peter said, it's near the electro dam, on the Arizona side. He wasn't too specific, he just mentioned a weather station on a hill..."

"Have you told the Legion about any of this?"

"Absolutely not. Are you here to kill me?"

Haywood was surprised at the candour of this sudden line of questioning.

"I didn't expect a rescue. I know Vitus cares, but you should have ignored his plea. It wouldn't matter what I told them in any case."

"Why?"

"Because the Legion won't use it. Caesar believes in the usefulness of all: slave or soldier. Technology will breed ineffectiveness and passiveness, or so he believes. If they had the means they would destroy it, but it's unlikely they'd care to seek out the technology to open it. I don't know how strong the tribes of the NCR are, but the might of the Legion is unrivalled. Peter was adamant that these machines could help win any future war. If you ask me, you'll need all the help you can get. The Legion won't stop because of a river - Sunrise was proof of that. They won't stop until they have killed or enslaved everyone up to the Pacific."

So, Vitus was right. Haywood thought about Fernandez's protestations at Sunrise, that if they turned back then, then the information would now be in NCR hands. What's more, Stars was unable to provide any further information regarding the bunker - how to open it or it's exact location. Yet, she countered these reflections with the idea of an army under the command of people like Merritt and Christiansen, combined with what Vitus had said of Bullhead. In fact, what would someone like her do with such an army? She came here to kill someone wholly innocent to protect a secret - someone who was facing a fate worse than death. She wasn't here out of mercy however, she was here on behalf of the NCR. Maybe it was best left a secret after all.

She retrieved the glass shard and Stars flinched slightly at its sight.

"Take it. Just in case."

"I don't understand…"

"You're going to get out of here."

"What about all these people? Can't you help them?"

"I can't help anyone, but Vitus can."

By the time her number was called it was later in the day, and the Sun had ceased being so dominant in the clear afternoon sky. The two of them had used the time sitting and talking about their respective lives: Haywood spoke of her difficult upbringing in Junktown - living in near poverty as her father worked as a caravan guard, who was first to teach her how to shoot. Whilst her mother would work in one of the local saloon's – work that she never fully specified to her daughter. It wasn't until both her parents began working a trading post together that things started to get better for them as a family. Her parents hoped she would continue the business, but the life of army was always her calling.

Stars spoke of her fortune of being a child of one of the elders, otherwise, she would probably have been punished for spending so much time with an outsider like Peter, yet there was an added expectation of her to become a leading warrior within the tribe. She also illustrated a different picture of Vitus: naïve perhaps, but always loyal. He was more gung-ho when he was younger, but the Legion ironically had the opposite effect on his masculinity, and he had steadfastly embraced a form of pacifism. The Legion had indoctrinated new recruits by forcing them to kill when they were young. After doing so they were told to shed any emotional response, but with Stars, he was able to release his inner anguish, and as a result of his brutal training vowed never to kill again. His hunting skills were fortunately for him transferable to the explorer contingent, and therefore, he was able to keep his promise and avoid "frontline" duties.

Stars escorted Haywood to the gate from where the Slave Master had called for her. As they approached they could see that Vitus was waiting alongside. Stars stopped as soon as she saw him.

"Best you stay here, just in case." Haywood said.

"What will happen to you?"

"Don't you worry about me, I plan on a one on one meeting with Ungala."

"I've heard he is more monster than human."

"Well, we're the perfect match then: many have said the same about me."

Haywood smiled, and Stars returned it. Haywood made her way through the open gate, as two guards kept captors who craved to get out at bay. Vitus continued to view Stars as she remained standing amongst the crowd, whilst the Slave Master took Haywood by the arm. Vitus' glaring stopped the closing of the gate, which caused the Slave Master to question him.

"Speculatore, once we assess your captive we can then look at the slaves."

Haywood felt like mouthing something to him in order to get his attention, but his sight was firmly set on Stars.

"Vitus? Is that you?"

A legionary, who was walking towards them along the outer perimeter of the fence, had called out his name. This awoke Vitus somewhat who casually turned his head to the newcomer.

"Palinurus, Ave." Vitus answered calmly.

"They told me you ran? That you fought a legionary who was taking a slave." Laughed the legionary.

Vitus instinctively glanced back to Stars, and in turn, the legionary naturally followed his gaze. The legionary seemingly recognising the figure within the pen walked closer to the fence for a better look. Stars responded by turning quickly, retreating back into the pen.

"Wait." The legionary said softly as he analysed the information before him. "Stop her!" He shouted pointing at Stars.

"Decanus, what is the meaning of this?" Asked the Slave Master.

"This man is a traitor, arrest him."

Haywood now knew the scenario that they faced. With her free hand, she opened her palm, forcing it into the Slave Master's nose. The slave master released his grip as he recoiled, and so Haywood took his arm and in a sudden movement broke it. The slave master cried with pain and fell to his knees. The legionary who had recognised Vitus took him by the scruff of his tunic. Haywood in reply kicked him with the base of her boot in the back of his knee, causing him to slump to the floor, releasing Vitus in the process. The crowd of captors went into a frenzy, initially retreating from the melee. The two gate guards closed in on Haywood armed with their machetes. The closest guard swung at her which Haywood easily avoided, and then in one movement brought her elbow heavily into the side of his head felling him to the floor.

"RETRIBUTION!" Shouted the remaining guard.

He brought his sword downwards, but again Haywood dodged, this time punching her fist into his throat. He released his sword holding his neck in pain, slowly falling to his knees. Haywood unmasked her given sign.

"My fucking arm!" The Slave Master screamed as he remained kneeling on the floor.

Haywood brought the board down heavily into the side of his head, the sign broke in half as he collapsed to the ground. A cacophony of voices could be heard coming from the tents around them. The captives, realising this was their chance, made for the exit. In the chaos Vitus and Haywood were briefly separated before Haywood found him, taking him by the arm.

"We need to go, now!" Haywood shouted.

"I must get to Stars!"

"They'll be here any second."

Vitus made an effort to release himself from the hold.

"Vitus, look at me. We will get her out, but I need your help. We have to work out a plan. You being dead won't help."

Vitus momentarily remained committed to his cause, only to accept Haywood's strategy as the compound entrance was overwhelmed with slaves. Haywood collected one of the machetes from a fallen guard and they made their way to the nearest tent, which was, fortunately, unoccupied. Haywood stripped off her battle armour to make herself more lightweight. The guards had now arrived at the gate, frantically re-capturing slaves who had made their escape. Haywood indicated for Vitus to take the lead so they could get back to the church. As they made their way clandestinely between tents, he would divert legionaries back to the prison pen to help with the prison escape, making excuses for himself as Haywood did her best to stay concealed nearby.

Eventually, they had arrived at the perimeter guard post from which they had entered by. Haywood, taking cover with Vitus amongst some crates was able to analyse the situation: the sentry armed with a submachine gun was still guarding the base of the guard tower, in addition to the two others within the tower itself, armed only with their javelins. Commanding Vitus to remain in cover, Haywood made for the sentry, oblivious to the ruckus ongoing within the camp, who was facing outwards towards the wastes. He turned at the last moment upon hearing the approaching foe, too late, however, as the machete pierced his torso, and he crumpled to the floor releasing his submachine gun. His cries of pain alerted the two sentries in the tower who, having spotted her, released their spears in her direction. Both of them missed their target as she reached the recently dropped released another volley and this time a spear had pierced her left leg. She let out a scream, but refocused her senses, gunning them down with her newly acquired weapon.

Vitus came to her aid as she broke off the stem of the javelin. He took her around his shoulder and they headed back for the sanctuary of the church whilst bells and drums began to emanate from within the camp. Upon reaching the foyer of the old building, Vitus released her carefully onto the floor.

"Who the fuck was that guy?" Haywood grunted.

"He was a Painted Rock, he knew Stars before the Legion." Vitus explained as he wrapped a makeshift tourniquet around her injury.

"Huh, best-laid plans and all that."

"I must go back for her Captain."

"Okay, ah, just help me to my feet."

Vitus obliged and once on her feet, Haywood presented the submachine gun.

"You'll need it more than me." She said.

Vitus took a moment before he responded.

"No, I've got this far without it."

Haywood nodded.

"Help me up the stairs, I can cover you from up there."

They both ascended the spiral staircase to the steeple. With some discomfort, Haywood went about setting up an enfilade for Law-Bringer in her newly acquired nest. Vitus however, had been scanning the camp for signs of movement.

"Stars!"

Haywood looked up from her post. She could see some commotion near the pit entrance where slaves were being herded back inside, but one had been left within a circle surrounded by legionaries. Haywood looked through her scope for a better look. He was right, she was bound and trembling, eyeing the soldiers that had her enclosed. A chanting had begun, but not from the source that they were witnessing. Deep within the camp, a column of legionaries was following a figure who was seemingly headed for the congregation.

"Vitus, look down the scope. The one in front. Is that…"

Vitus observed with Haywood's assistance in locating the individual. After a moment he confirmed that it was indeed the man known as Ungala.

"Okay, thanks, Vitus. I'm going to take him out. The moment you hear the shot you rescue her. She's outside the pen so you have to be quick. I suggest covering your face so that you're not recognised."

"Will we meet after?"

Haywood released a light sigh.

"I think it's best if we part ways. You'll be able to get away easier without me."

She met his eyes and held out her hand.

"Good luck Vitus."

The man returned it graciously.

"Listen's-to-the-River."

"What?"

"My name, my tribal name is Listen's-to-the-River."

She released his hand but continued to study the man beside her. A man who remained an enigma.

"My parents died in battle when I was young. I had no one else. The elders cared for me, but never loved me."

"Vitus, I don't think this is the time. Stars is…"

"Please, I owe you this. When I was a child, I was tasked with fetching water from the River of Souls. The elders told stories of our ancestors who lived during the Great Fire, witnessing the dead from the City of Ash drift down the river. And so, it was told that when we die our bodies and our spirits would enter the water. I spent many hours on the riverside, listening for the voices of my parents. I dreamt of becoming a great warrior like them and wanted guidance. Walk-Among-the-Stars was my only friend. She was the only one who believed in me, that I could be something despite my limitations. The Legion made the most of me, but… they didn't care about who I was, or who I am."

"Wait a minute, you drank water from the river where you put your dead?" Haywood interjected.

He returned a brief smile.

"Water for boiling, we had pumps for drinking. All I'm saying is, I owe her. You don't owe anyone. I said before, you don't have to do this, Captain."

"Faith. My name is Faith."

"Faith. It is a good name. Your parents must believe in you."

The chanting within the camp became louder.

"Get out of here." Faith said softly.

River wanted to say something, but he looked away to the source of the noise before returning to meet her eyes.

"Thank you, Faith."

River backed away, maintaining eye contact for a while before leaving her alone.

Upon recognising Stars, the legionary known as Palinurus had selected her from the pen during the chaos. After binding her, Palinurus had told her she would be a sacrifice to the Son of Mars for Vitus' betrayal. As the legionaries formed a circle around her, a chanting chorus could be heard in the distance. The slaves lined the fence to witness the ritual. Stars gripped hard on the shard of glass that she concealed in her hand, causing blood to seep out as the chanting got closer. Frightened, she was unsure whether to use it now or to wait.

The circle broke in front of her and the sight ahead caused her to recoil. Black eyes were focused upon her, adjoined with a scaly snout and two snaking horns that were thrust outwards towards her. This hideous "face" lifted upwards revealing the face of a man. Purposely, it would seem, the man would walk head downwards, giving the impression that the animal's head was for all intents and purposes his own. His bodyguard who had followed him, discernible from their lilac uniform instead of the standard scarlet, joined the circle, as the man-beast approached closer. His body was covered in the yellowish-white scales, and feathery spikes protruded above his head down to the base of his back, personifying a decorative spine. His hands were replaced with large claws that stretched down to his knees. All the while the chanting became louder around her - a chorus of his name.

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

Ungala stopped before her. Stars closed her eyes hoping he and the others would simply disappear.

"Mars, deus belli, Mars, deus pugni."

Ungala spoke softly but from the back of his throat. His Latin impeccable, albeit in accented American.

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

"Facultatem cum telis dona, Sic adversarios calcem."

He raised his clawed hands and began to stroke her braided hair with the tips of his fabricated nails.

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

"Armipotentiam dona, Sic ad finem pugnem."

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

He circled around her, the claws barely touching her scalp.

"Valorem militis dona, Sic ab pugnis nonhorrem."

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

Once he had made her way behind her, he placed the palm of his hand on her crown, gently forcing her downwards. Opening her eyes to this physical command, she obeyed until she was kneeling on the floor.

"Mars, deus pugni, Mars, deus belli."

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

She began to saw at her bonds with the glass shard as clandestinely as she could. Ungala however, had now made a full circle and was facing her from above. She ceased in terror.

"In remuneratione ob dona militara, tributum ab pugna dono."

"UNGALA

UNGALA"

He raised her chin carefully with the edge of his claws until they began to break into her skin, causing her to bleed somewhat. She began weeping from the pain and the fear. Ungala released his hand yet her head remained in place. He retracted his hand back, ready to thrust forward into her exposed chest. Stars closed her eyes once again as tears made their desperate escape.

A shot cascaded throughout the camp, ceasing the chanting instantly, causing a string of confusion amongst the soldiers. Stars re-opened her eyes. The face of the deathclaw was missing, whilst the face of the man within was motionless, his arm still raised in a position to strike. After a brief juncture, one side of his head violently released blood, as though it had been waiting for permission to leave. The man stumbled forward slightly, and Stars thought that he would collapse onto her. Instead, he attempted to right himself with a step backwards, but his body soon succumbed to a series of convulsions, and in one abrupt motion, he buckled heavily onto his back.

Haywood set Law-bringer down with care against the base of the steeple wall. With a pained release, she sat with an effort next to her instrument, with her back to the chaos that she had just set in motion. She looked down at her hands and BEAR CLAWS stared right back. The warm sunshine beat down upon her face, calling her, and so she turned her gaze towards the west. Towards the setting sun.

THE END

submitted by /u/MiddleClassSoftie
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Fallout: Arizona (Act 2 - Part 3)

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 12:12 PM PDT

Act 2: Arizona

Part 3 – Plomosa

Silence had befallen the two remaining members of the party since their departure from Vault 39. Nightfall had beset the desert as they made their way to the northern extreme of the mountain range; the plains below extended and disappeared into the darkness before them. Somewhere out there was Quartzsite - their final destination. Haywood raised a hand to her eyes, pressing hard into the sockets, in a vain attempt to remove her tiredness. Vitus, who was on point, as usual, turned and stopped when he had noticed that his company had paused.

"Captain, there is no need for you to continue."

Haywood, on hearing this plea, removed her hand to scrutinise the exiled legionary.

"What the fuck did you just say?" She retorted, in partial disbelief.

"Do not feel you have to come with me."

"Are you fucking kidding me? We've walked hundreds of miles through hostile territory. We've fought a bear and a deathclaw."

She took a step closer, raising her voice.

"Fought those assassins you call brothers. Gabby may lose her mind, and I've lost my best friend."

She paused, averting her gaze briefly before composing herself somewhat, once more making eye contact.

"And you want me to just walk home?"

"I only mean…"

"I have a mission, and I'm going to finish it. When I'm done, the Legion will shit themselves every time they hear the letters N.C.R."

Haywood advanced again so that they were within arm's length of each other. Her voice was hushed but severe.

"I could just leave you on the side of the road, broken and gasping for air, but for now, I need you. So, count yourself lucky."

Brushing past him, she continued ahead, on her way down the mountainside.

"What is this place?"

The explorer had guided her to a stone structure that pathetically imitated a building. Rusted corrugated sheets of steel functioned as some form of a roof, whilst openings within the walls desperately aspired to be windows.

"This is where men from old used to stay between going underground." Answered the explorer.

"Mines? More fucking mines?" Haywood grunted.

"I didn't mean to head within, just rest in the building. Until morning."

"Wouldn't entering the camp at night be more ideal?" She queried aggressively.

"They may suspect us more, and we need to talk."

"We need to talk?" She mimicked with surprise.

"Yes, to discuss a plan."

He was right, and this truth angered Haywood further.

"Fine."

Haywood entered the shack of masonry, whilst the explorer volunteered to collect wood for a fire. She studied her surroundings in the fading light: any flooring this place may have had had long disappeared, instead, clumps of desert weeds struggled for life through the desert ground. The place seemed to be insulting her. She cast her pack onto the floor, and gently placed Law-bringer against a wall. She crumpled her exhausted legs and collapsed to the ground, resting her head on her pack. She retrieved her canteen, taking a satisfying sip. The ugly ceiling berated her existence, so she closed her eyes, trying desperately to think of a distraction. All she could feel was anger; resentment and hate. She recalled Gabby's warning - there was nothing that could satisfy the pain.

Her thoughts wandered to her parents back in Junktown; making do and making by. They were accustomed to having to wait long intervals with little to no contact with their daughter, sometimes for months on end. It was the nature of the Rangers; those who made the cut and graduated to the corp knew of the implications that this could bring to the well-being of family life, but the health of the nation came first. They never asked her about her tours of duty, and she avoided such discussions, but she often speculated that the impression she gave was of mundane patrols on the Colorado River border, or the wilds of Oregon, or the sands of Baja; politely policing and providing assistance to settlers and citizens. Now, here she was, with fifty-nine confirmed kills and more unaccounted for, lying in the middle of the Arizona. So many lives she had ended in the name of peace.

If, or rather when, she would end the life of the monster tomorrow, then the only regret would be that there was no one present to verify it. She imagined a legacy, a gift to her parents, that the name Haywood would become a legend of vengeance throughout the Legion for years to come. A warning that their acts of barbarity would have consequences. She allowed herself a smile, but the consideration of the other target sobered her. Her hatred for Vitus should have made the thought easier; she would take no pleasure in it, but he would find out what it's like to lose someone close. At the back of her mind, though, she thought of the crosses and the embers of Sunrise; the fates of the dead and the living.

The explorer returned, arms full of dry dead wood. He unloaded his collection onto the floor within the middle of their new abode and commenced to assemble a campfire.

"We can't do that. They'll see it." Stated Haywood flatly without moving.

"They won't send out a patrol."

"Why not?"

"There is no need. Fires are either traders or legionaries."

Haywood, confused, opened her eyes and turned her head towards him to make sense of this statement. He continued to busy himself and was successful in kindling a fire.

"What do you mean? Why would only traders and legionaries' light fires?"

He looked across his creation to meet Haywood's gaze.

"Because there is no one else."

Haywood raised herself onto her elbow.

"What? What do you mean? What about settlers, pioneers, raiders?"

"No, the Legion takes all. There is only Legion and those that are allowed."

So, the rumours were true. Peace, Haywood thought. They had established peace, whilst the NCR battled with raiders, gangsters, rebels, slavers, Enclave and Brotherhood remnants, feral ghouls, unstable supermutants, and people who were perhaps just having a bad day.

"Unbelievable." She sighed as she set herself down again, stroking her brow.

"Without order, there can be no peace."

"Tell me about it. What I don't understand, is how so many people can allow themselves to be enslaved, and how people like you allow it."

"My family is not perfect. I know that. But in many respects, we're no different to NCR."

Haywood sat up once more.

"What the fuck did you say?"

"I told you. I saw what your people did in Bullhead. No one was left alive."

"That's different. They were raiders."

"Raiders to you. To us they have potential."

"What as slaves?"

"Maybe, or as soldiers. But everyone serves a purpose."

"Yeah, everyone serves your leader, right? Remind me, what do you call him?"

"Caesar."

"That's an old-world name, isn't it? You people just repeating history, that's all it is."

"No, he is the son of Mars, conqueror of the eighty-six tribes…"

"By the Vault Dweller; you really believe all that? So now that you've angered the almighty, do you think he'll just forgive you? Let you run around like his dog, searching for more people to kill and enslave."

The man looked deep into the flames.

"It is of no consequence what happens to me. Only Stars matters now."

"Yeah, sure, and I guess I'm dispensable too."

Haywood lay onto her side, turning away from the burning embers.

"Why else would you be here? You have no family here. Only your mission."

Haywood couldn't believe what she was hearing. The nerve of the man. He had no idea of the situation. Enough was enough. She rolled over and sat up.

"You know why I'm here? To kill that wannabe deathclaw freak, sure, but that holodisk you have, that one which you can't listen to because you're too fucking stupid, it's that man you knew, warning us that if the Legion get their hands onto those… those things you call metal soldiers, then we will lose, not just the NCR, but every living thing above the ground, we'll all lose because we'll all turn into you. A clueless servant for people that only believe in killing."

"No."

"Yes, it's true."

"Stars said that it would save the Legion."

"She just told you that to get you on side, because she couldn't trust you."

"No, it's not true."

"Yeah, ignore it all you want. That's what you're best at."

Haywood took another swig from her canteen.

"It is impossible because we do not use technology."

"Listen, I know that you people like to dress up as animals, but even your Caesar won't pass up an opportunity like that."

"You don't understand. It's forbidden from our ways. We must remain pure and driven. If we do not, then we become nothing, and we serve nothing. Nequam."

Haywood eyed him cautiously. She was not convinced, but it was an odd attitude and defence to take. She thought about what she had said - it was harsh to label him as a mere servant. He had not given up on his friend after everything. She calmed herself down, it was not befitting an officer to take such an attitude when she would need him focused on tomorrow's mission.

"Look, I'm sorry. What you're doing for your friend is very noble. Here, have a drink."

She tossed over the canteen, and he obliged, coughing after he had finished. He retrieved some horsetail from his sack and offered it in return. She examined it carefully.

"Do not worry, I have not drugged this."

He proved this by taking a bite. She took some and began gnawing away.

"How did you drug us?" She mumbled through her bites.

"Crushed valerian, sprinkled on horsetail. A concoction that we learn to aid sleep in difficult climates."

Haywood gently nodded.

"So, Vitus, what's your plan?" She asked.

"Well," he sighed. "I must pose as someone who wishes to buy slaves. I was thinking of using you as evidence that I capture and sell them."

"Okay, hold on. Are they gonna believe that you captured me? I mean no offence, but you're not exactly made of muscle. Also, won't they recognise you?"

"Woman are not well considered. You may be strong, but to them, you will always be weak. They have many who come and go, as long as I avoid the Despoiler's men, I will go unnoticed, and by bringing you I can prove I am worthy to buy."

"Are you allowed to buy a slave?"

"Of course, it is expected for me to buy a wife."

"Buy a wife?" Haywood repeated these words carefully.

"Yes, we must reproduce for future legionaries and slaves."

"You're not thinking of doing this to Walk, erm, Stars, are you?"

"No, like I said, she deserves to be free, to continue the legacy of the tribe."

"You've got a strange idea of how the world works. Anyway, so we walk in, and you buy her?"

"Well, it's not as simple as that. They have to examine you before placing you in the slave pen."

"What?"

"Just to see if you are physically able. Once that is done, then you be slave worthy."

"Oh, fantastic."

"Also, I have no money."

"You're not thinking of what I think you're thinking?"

"You are resourceful. You can find a way to get out."

"Right. There are three things wrong with this plan: One, I need you to identify Ungala to me so I can kill him. Two, I would rather like to speak to this friend of yours, and three, locked up in a slave pen with no weapon, as you two walk out the front door hand in hand, kinda negates points one and two."

"Well, a slave swap is our only choice to get her out."

"Why can't you just identify Ungala so I can kill him? In all the chaos, you can go in and rescue her. I've seen it happen to raider gangs plenty of times before - once the boss is dead, then they all run around like headless Brahmin."

"The slave pen will be locked and guarded."

"Okay, so we need to get both her and myself out, then kill Mr Lizard."

Haywood took a moment of contemplation, resting her head on her fingers. Maybe, if she could get to this Stars person in the slave pen first, she could find a way of ridding her, fooling Vitus into thinking that she had died already, and having no option but to take her back as a 'slave'. Then she could make him, at gunpoint if necessary, identify Ungala from a distance. Messy, and many things could go wrong, and she'd likely miss the opportunity to eliminate Ungala, but for now Stars was the priority. The danger was that once she had killed Stars, Vitus might sell her out to the Legion. There was no alternative, however, to get close to her. If only Fernandez was here, then they could have worked on both targets simultaneously…

"How about this. Once I get in, are you able to pretend to look around for slaves, giving me time to talk to Stars?"

"If you must talk with her, but you will still be locked in."

"Well, like you said I'm resourceful, I'm sure I can find some way of getting out. But you two will have to wait nearby so we can get rid of Ungala."

"Of course."

"Now, you're sure there is only one pen?"

"Yes, it is the great slave pen of Arizona. It is the biggest in all Legion territory."

"So, how do I find her - what does she look like?"

"She has braided hair, a symbol of our tribe."

"And…"

"And?"

"How old is she, is she your age?"

"Yes."

"Okay, what does her face look like?"

"White."

"Okay, you're not good at this describing thing. What marks her out? Does she have any tattoos or any scars like mine?"

Vitus shook his head slightly but then spoke softly as if remembering something distant.

"Her hair is the colour of sand mixed with dirt."

"Jeez man, you got to work at this. That kind of talk can crush a girl."

"Her hand."

"Her hand?"

"Yes, when we were young she reached into a fire and burned it. She now has creases on her skin, but very slight on the inside."

"Great, so I just have to ask every young woman if I can look at their palms. What if... what if she isn't there?"

"What do you mean?"

What if you're wrong, and she was taken somewhere else or sold on already, or that she, you know, didn't make it."

"That is not possible."

"Why?"

"Because I know."

"Okay, but say you're wrong. And I'm stuck in there. Will you get me out?"

Vitus was silent for a moment, his eyes measuring hers across the fire.

"If she is not there, then we will look elsewhere, but there is no other place she can be."

"You're not listening."

Vitus stood quickly raising his voice.

"What you say is mistaken. Stars is there and she is alive. I will not allow her to die. The souls of my ancestors will ensure it. They do not allow the pure to die, not until they have proved their purpose in life. You may be weak spirited, but I am strong."

"Huh, how convenient for you. To choose your Gods when it suits you. To choose who may live and die. To choose when to be strong."

"I meant no disrespect..."

"Oh really? For someone who is acting so tough right now, I've seen very little of it over the last few days. Gabby, you remember - the supermutant, the one who you ignored because she was different from you. She saved us twice and she was never under any orders or was having to save someone due to her own failures. And what have you done but to run and hide? Alicia would be alive if not for you. You said we'd be safe, that they wouldn't follow us, you didn't even warn us of the risk of being followed. I put my trust in you, for the sake of the mission, and now she's dead."

Haywood maintained eye contact for a moment, before she turned back over onto her side, hiding once again from the flames.

"You're right…"

"I don't want to hear it."

Vitus dropped his gaze and proceeded to leave the shelter. Haywood lay there, wanting the day to end, wanting her pain to end. Before she fell asleep, she was reminded of that night she first met Vitus in Progreso, where distrust and questions abounded.

They were stood on the unstable roof of the shack under the morning sun. The settlement of Quartzsite was a visible haze on the horizon.

"Maybe you can shoot The Despoiler from here?" Suggested Vitus.

"That's a fucking stupid idea. It's miles away."

Haywood took a sight through her scope identifying the outline of a building that was markedly taller than those surrounding it.

"What's that building?" Haywood asked.

"It's an old temple, where they used to pray."

"A church? Do the Legion use it?"

"It is unholy to use…"

"Okay, I got it. Maybe we can use the steeple."

"That is possible, it is on the outskirts of the encampment."

"Perfect, we'll head there first, and sneak the rifle into the tower, which will give us a viewpoint of the whole town."

They descended from their vantage point and Haywood began to gather her belongings.

"We must…" Vitus paused before continuing.

"What?"

"You do not look... broken."

"Broken?"

"It must look like I have captured you. That I have defeated you."

"You mean you want to hit me? Okay, then hit me."

Vitus struck her softly.

"You serious? I've seen Followers hit harder than you."

Vitus retracted his fist, striking her again. It hurt this time and Haywood stumbled slightly. She rubbed her chin and scoffed.

"Is that the best you got? Let me show you how it's done."

Haywood threw a punch and Vitus was stunned. She struck him again and he fell onto his back. She grabbed his shirt and threatened another salvo. He cowered slightly and shut his eyes.

"You're pathetic, you know that?"

Haywood released him, removed her coat and hat, smothering some sand onto her face. Vitus slowly regained his footing.

"Anything else? Shall I call you master?"

"Just, try not to talk much."

"Me? I'll be quiet as mute-mouse. And here..."

Haywood handed him Law-bringer.

"Just in case they stop us. DON'T drop her. Or I'll drop you again."

Vitus retrieved some rope from his sack, pushing it towards her - a request for her to extend her arms.

"Carrying rope in your bag? Planning on hanging yourself sometime soon?"

Vitus remained silent, and she obliged, allowing him to bound her wrists. He turned, pulling at the rope for her to follow. Haywood obeyed, and for a moment, the situation dawned upon her, and a fear that by complying so easily she had inadvertently allowed herself to be defeated, that soon gave way to relief, that maybe now all her misgivings were behind her.

submitted by /u/MiddleClassSoftie
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Fallout: Arizona (Act 1 - Part 4)

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 10:27 AM PDT

Act 1: Intro/California

Part 4 – Sunrise

"Are you seeing this?"

Yes, thought Haywood, but she could scarcely believe it. They had camped overnight at the old junction on the All-American canal, so as to have the morning sun on their side in case Legion soldiers remained in Sunrise. They made their way down the Araz road and the settlement's namesake revealed the unending horror. The irony was not lost on her.

For over a mile along the side of the road stood wooden crosses, each affixed with a person - the settlers of Sunrise. There were so many that Haywood believed that there could be no one left to account for. She periodically checked for life signs from every few crosses, but all were still. For a moment, Haywood thought that perhaps it wasn't a raid at all: just a cruel slaughter.

"Have you noticed something?" Enquired Fernandez.

Apart from a road of death, what else was there to notice, she thought.

"They're all men."

Fernandez was right. Haywood had yet caught on to this. Men, on every cross. Some as young as teenagers, and the elderly too, accompanied with every age in between. No women and no children. Haywood felt fear, she was not immune to it, but she had seen enough not to suffer from the feeling too often. This was something else - a sign of things to come.

"Come on. Let's check the town."

There was not much to see. Every building had been burned to the ground. The fires had expired and apart from the odd smouldering bit of wood, the skies were clear.

"Well, now what?"

Fernandez's question was more than pertinent. They had orders to pursue Ungala, but on the understanding that they'd be able to acquire some information from the settlers and track him into Arizona. Haywood was at a loss.

"NCR?"

A deep booming voice came from behind. Their instinct took over and they aimed their weapons as they reeled around. The first thought from Haywood was that this was either someone who was very stupid, or who had never seen an NCR Ranger before. Yet, the moment she saw the individual whose voice it belonged to she dropped her guard.

Facing her was a monstrous humanoid: scaly and green – a Super Mutant. She had seen them before, but the majority had left the NCR many years ago, after the defeat of the Master - the leader of the initial Super Mutant scourge. However, the ones who had remained in the Republic were always friendly, well-mannered, and intelligent. This, added to the fact that a bullet would most likely merely aggravate the beast, was the determinant factors in her signal to Fernandez that she lowers her gun.

"Yeah, NCR Rangers."

"You're late."

"What happened here?"

"Legion. They came from over the river. Killed all the men. Took the women and children."

"Why only take the women and children?"

"They raise the children: males become soldiers, females will replace their mothers as slaves and child bearers."

Haywood felt sick. She didn't understand. She knew raiders could commit despicable acts against women, but they usually had women in their ranks. She knew that even in the NCR some fathers were not fit to bear the name, but women were revered in their society. The first NCR President was a woman, an idol to Haywood and to so many other females in the Republic. And now, these people were rewriting everything. Well, not on her watch.

"Which way did they go?"

"Back across the river."

"Do you know where?"

"No, although if you're planning on going after them, I request to join you."

"Captain, we can't take a mutie. No offence."

"No offence taken, but I can look after myself. Also, I may have something you want to see."

With that, the mutant turned and walked away without a word.

"I guess we should follow it."

Haywood agreed. They walked alongside the lumbering juggernaut, flanking it on either side.

"Who are you?" Asked Haywood.

"My name is Gabby."

"Gabby?"

"Yes. Well, that's what they call me. The humans that lived here."

"Why?" Fernandez interjected.

"I believe it's ironic. A title that conveys to be very talkative, but I'm usually a woman of very few words."

"Woman?"

"Yes, before I became a Super Mutant I was a woman, I believe. It was so long ago it's hard to remember."

"And you lived here?"

"Yes, I suppose they thought I would make useful protection for the town."

"Some good that did them." Snorted Fernandez.

The mutant paused and faced Fernandez, who recoiled slightly.

"I dismembered five of their members before they decided I was not worth the effort. Would you like to find out how useful I am in a fight?"

The mutant briefly stared the ghoul down, then continued onwards. Haywood smiled to Fernandez.

"Never seen you that scared."

"What about that time that man came onto me in Dayglow?"

They re-joined the mutant.

"My name is Captain Haywood, this is Sergeant Fernandez."

"It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Why are you so keen to join us?"

"I feel I owe these people. The Legion must pay for their crimes. I would have gone after them myself, but that would have been suicide even for a Super-Mutant."

"You know of the Legion?"

"Oh yes, I have been east. Seen what they do. They are not so kind to mutants, and ghouls too if you weren't aware. So, I came back west and settled here."

"You said that we were late. Were you expecting us?"

"I suppose. I was under the impression that the NCR was aware that a large Legion slaver party had camped across the river."

"Why would you say that?"

"The settlers here may not be aware of how brutal the Legion can be, but when you see fires burning across the river, I'm assuming a messenger would have been sent for help."

"We received no word, as far as I know."

"Then the settlers here must have thought they could deal with the Legion themselves."

"Don't you know?"

"I may be accepted here, but I'm not exactly privy to the decisions of the council."

Haywood reflected on her discussion with the Agent from yesterday. It had been bothering her for some time that Christiansen had said that they had possible identification of the Legion leader, but they couldn't confirm, or perhaps were willing to divulge, if Sunrise had been attacked. Yet, if they did know of the attack, then why send them to check? Unless…

"He knew."

"Who?" Asked Fernandez.

"Christiansen, not sure about Merritt. He told me during the meeting that they wanted Sunrise to join the Republic. So, they must have tracked the Legion raiding party across the river, knew that they were going to attack, but waited for Sunrise to ask for their help. Sunrise meanwhile knew this would set a precedent and lead to annexation, or they were just stubborn. Meanwhile, HQ hear no word of an attack, they don't even check until they've sent us. Either they want to disregard it, lest they get blamed for leaving it unprotected, or maybe they thought that the Legion decided not to attack. Whatever the case, they choose to ignore it until we told them about Vitus. Then they had no choice but to send the only ones who knew, and at the same time, we could do their dirty work by killing Ungala."

"Vitus?" Asked the mutant.

"Yes, he was a legion scout we ran into the other day."

"Funny you should say that…"

They had reached the Yuma Crossing Bridge on the Colorado River, still standing although a shadow of its former self. The river before them was calm, dividing the new ruins of Sunrise and the old ruins of Yuma on the opposite bank.

"It's very nice and all but why are we here? Fernandez questioned.

"A man came through here yesterday. He was dressed in Legion uniform. He calls himself Vitus."

"Where is he?"

"Down there."

The mutant pointed towards the shore on their side of the river bank. Vitus was submerged in the shallows of the river, his upper torso and head above the water line. He was still and bowed over slightly.

"He's still alive. I found him weeping in the Sunrise ruins. Never seen a man of the Legion cry. I had half a mind to take his head, but I thought he could prove useful for interrogation. He offered little resistance. I tied him up and fastened a stone to his feet casting him into shallows. I said that if he didn't talk then the river would take him. I still don't think he's realised that the Colorado has no tide."

"Has he talked?"

"Yes, plenty. He says that he's on my side. Says he's trying to rescue a friend."

"Then I think it's time we had a little chat with our new friend."

Vitus trembled next to the fire they had constructed near the ruins of Sunrise. Gabby stood behind him, supervising his movements in case he made any attempt to escape. Haywood took a seat next to him and handed him a flask. He looked at it quizzically.

"New Republic whiskey. It'll warm you up."

After taking a long sip, he spluttered heavily before finding his composure.

"I'm sorry I drugged you both. I didn't know if you would let me go."

Vitus spoke softly and carefully. His sentences were sometimes broken, but his words always articulate.

"Best night's sleep I've had in years." Joked Fernandez.

"Let's start at the beginning, Vitus. Tell me everything you know."

Vitus handed the flask back to Haywood. He brushed his hair back.

"Many summers ago, before I was Legion, a man came to my village. His name was Peter Lowell. He was a kind and learned man. He came from a tribe, or um what you call group? Called the Followers."

"The Followers of the Apocalypse?"

"Yes. He said he was there to look at the broken wall: the dam in the River of Souls. But instead, he stayed with us for two summers. The Elders did not like him living in the village as he was outsider, so, he lived in a cave above the river. We youngsters liked him."

He paused briefly.

"Walks-Among-the-Stars especially, she spent much time with him."

"Sorry, walk where?"

"No, her name. Her name is Walks-Among-the-Stars. It is a tribal name. She is the last of… my old tribe - The Painted Rocks."

"If she's from your tribe, how come she's the last?"

"I am Legion. Only Legion. That is the way it is and must be."

"Okay, go on." Haywood gestured for him to continue.

"Peter taught her much about his knowledge, and she taught him about our ways. But when the Legion came, they killed him along with the elders and many of our warriors. I was taken but she hid. After a time, I left the Legion, not for good, but as a speculatore, I am expected to be gone for many months, so I returned to my old village. I found her in Peter's cave. She thought I meant her harm, but I was just happy to see her alive. I would visit her as often as I could, but she is strong, stronger than me, a survivor, and she knows much. If my brothers could only see how much she knows, but they would kill her, so I kept her secret. Every time she would tell me of what she had learned, none of it I understood. The last time though, she told me she had broke the password. On those windows."

"Windows?"

"The box windows, with words."

"I think he's referring to a terminal." Gabby suggested.

"Yes, on this terminal she heard Peter's voice. I have it… or I did."

He looked up to Gabby.

"He has a holodisk in his bag. I have it here."

Gabby handed the bag to Haywood.

"Okay, I'll listen to it later. Carry on."

"I do not understand it, but she said it could save the Legion. She said that she needed to get over the great river. That she needed my help. How could I refuse her? But it would mean I would have to betray my brothers. I thought maybe I could bring her here and then return to my brothers."

"How can you stand being with those people?" Snarled Fernandez.

"They are my family. I have become a great speculatore. I find many places for them. I found a place of the old world north of here and I found this place."

He fell silent.

"I remembered this place and brought her here. But my brothers had already arrived. She gave me that message, in case we were separated. I tried to protect her, but they took her away. I escaped, but only just. I walked west."

"Why?"

"I would die if I went east and I would be no good to her dead."

He began to tear, looking up to the sky.

"What is your name?" He asked Haywood.

"You can call me Captain Haywood."

"Do you have family Captain?"

"Yes, my parents live in Junktown."

"And is your tribe – NCR - your family too?"

"NCR is my country. I love my country very much."

"It is the same for me. Legion is my family, and I serve only them until death. But Walk-Among-the-Stars, she deserves to carry the name of the tribe. I will protect her even against my brothers. She believes in me. Without her, I would have forgotten my past. My tribe, my old life. I would be like my brothers, with only the Legion to serve. For this, she deserves to be free."

"And what of the others Vitus? The women and children that were taken from here?"

"Many women are not like Stars, not like you. They are worse than dissolute. Degenerates. They live better as a slave."

"Can I please shoot this guy?" Fernandez queried.

"Vitus, do you know where they may have taken your friend?"

"Yes. There is a great camp, a slave camp, in what they call Quartzsite. They will be taken there to be sold."

"Do you know a man called Ungala? Ungala the Despoiler."

Vitus' eyes narrowed on Haywood.

"Centurion Ungala. He is mighty, brave and one you do not want to fail. It was he who led the raid."

"Would you recognise him if you saw him?"

"Of course, I have served him many times. He wears the face of a deathclaw…"

"Yes, I know."

"But, I have failed him, he would kill me."

"But if you take me to Quartzite, to Ungala, I can help rescue your friend."

"Skipper…" Fernandez croaked.

"I suppose, but what of them?"

"They're coming with us."

"They are not pure. If my brothers see them…"

"Let me worry about that. But listen to me Vitus: I will be in charge, do you understand?"

"Yes, I understand the principles of disciplinam."

"But do you understand me?"

Vitus took his time before answering carefully.

"Yes, save my friend Captain and I will serve you loyally."

"Okay, what about this tape…"

"It talks of the metal soldiers."

"Metal soldiers? You mean robots?"

"I do not know, just that they are secret."

Haywood studied the holodisk. Its distinctive orange colour was faded, but it was otherwise intact.

"Is there anywhere to play this?" Haywood asked the mutant. "Yes, there are terminals in the old prison across the way. In the museum."

"Alright, Fernandez, keep an eye on Vitus. Gabby, keep an eye on Fernandez."

Fernandez dispatched a curse Haywood's way as she journeyed to the longstanding prison. She entered through the ancient broken gates and past the old cells. She knew little of history but knew it must have served a similar purpose as the NCRCF's that held raiders and traitors throughout California. The museum had caved in partially and many of the items inside had been taken, most likely by the settlers of Sunrise. However, a terminal stood on a desk of the museum shop, useless for farmers and traders, but still running due to its internal atomic battery. She powered the old machine and loaded the disk into the drive. The disk crackled for a moment before activating and broadcasting the deep voice of a male:

"If you're listening to this Stars, then I am sorry. I am dead and I was never able to say goodbye. You must understand that I encrypted my terminal as I was unsure who may have had access. As you now know, the answer was in your name: stars, the sign you were born under. If I had made it any more obvious then this may have landed into the wrong hands.

I suppose I should start from the beginning: I left the Boneyard on behalf of the Followers on a journey into the Mojave Desert. My mission was to uncover the secrets of the great tower in the city that was once known as Las Vegas. From what I had learned, this tower – the Lucky 38 casino – was owned by Robert House, the pre-war genius and founder of Rob-Co industries. As a structural engineer, it was my task to find out how the building had avoided any signs of structural degradation in contrast to the skyscrapers of Boneyard that had long since collapsed. Traders and travellers spoke of the tower with mystery, but what I did not expect was to find the building occupied. House was alive. There was little contemporary information available but it was believed that he had perished in the Great War. Now, here he was, alive and well, with the secret of longevity, far more valuable than anything I would find on structural durability.

He was willing to trade his secret if I could retrieve something for him: a poker chip. He said that it could be found in the ruins of what was once called Sunnydale, and he offered me more caps than all the Water Merchants of the Hub. 'Do this,' he said, 'and I will share Vegas with you.' He wouldn't tell me anything more: what it was for, or even what it was exactly. House may be a genius, but his love of monetary wealth is his frailty. I assumed he was lying - an excuse to get rid of me.

So, I conducted my own research. Some of the operating systems he was using were old and easy to hack. I found information referring to a weather station on Fortification Hill near the old Hoover Dam. Inside was a vault of some sort. I deducted that this place may actually be where he was 'housed' if you excuse the pun. Inside could be the secret to everlasting life. Instead, I learnt that it contained an army: an undisclosed army of machines. With such an army, America could once again re-settled, and the marauders and slavers placated for good.

Despite my efforts, however, I was unable to open it. I had a plan though: the dam. If I could reroute power from the dam to the station, then maybe it may overload the blast doors protecting the inner sanctum, forcing them to open. Scavenging the ruins of Sunnydale back west for a mysterious chip was never in question, so I worked on optimising power output from the dam to the station. My understanding of hydraulic engineering was lacking, and only one turbine seemed operable. I would need more power.

I know I went out on a limb, alone into the wastes, but we Followers can be too restrained on our objectives sometimes. I found a map at Hoover that indicated all the dams in south-western America. I concluded that if I could find a dam in better condition, then maybe I could reroute power through the grid back to the station. If not, then at least I would learn more about turbine control and maintenance. The risk was worth the prize in the vault.

I made my way down the Colorado, examining the Parker, and then the Alamo on the Bill Williams, but both were breached. I headed deeper into Arizona, to the Painted Rock Dam. I should have known. Hoover was one of a kind. Painted Dam was merely a flood control dam. And what's more, it was also breached. I had navigated my way down the Colorado, avoiding lurks, raiders and deathclaws, but I didn't know the simple difference between pre-war dams.

That was two years ago, and here I remain. Your tribe fascinated me. Ferocious, but tactful. Traditional, but perceptive. Almost overnight I became more an anthropologist, and less so an engineer. The side project ultimately became my main focus. I may have learned nothing about dam's, but much about people. That rad-scorpion sting I got in the leg was the final factor in my decision and I abandoned my venture – there was no way I would make it back to the Mojave. I spent too much time on House's secrets of longevity, engineering, and robotics that I forgot about people. The Followers have always claimed to have the opposite goals of the Brotherhood of Steel and now I'm proving it.

I would have let go, but on my travels, I heard about the rise of the Legion. When Bill Calhoun returned, he warned us of their threat, but we didn't listen. Maybe this recording will prove to be a tragic irony, and that my death was a result of their arrival, but the risk is that many in the tribe would set out to find them if they knew of their existence, and would willingly join. If I am wrong, then I hope I did all I could to protect you and the tribe. But it also means that you must find a way to open that vault. I have taught you all I can, and on this terminal, you will find my notes. I don't know how or whether you can do it, but I believe in you. If necessary tell the NCR, the Followers, or even House. The Legion cannot know of this. With such an army, nothing will stop them.

I never had a daughter, or any family to speak of, but I consider you as the child I never had.

Goodbye.

Peter Lowell, Follower of the Apocalypse."

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Since there doesn't seem to be a black-and-white "right" ending to New Vegas, which to you is the worst one?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 01:02 PM PDT

I did get the game spoiled for me which did end up ruining some of the fun, however I was originally going to do the NCR ending. Ultimately I found that to be the worst as I shouldn't trust a republic that has so much guns and tech to be in a losing battle against the Legion, with melee as their main way of combat.

submitted by /u/Itz-Blitz
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f4 not launching steam after playing for a few weeks.

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 04:01 PM PDT

I have been playing the game a lot over the past few weeks and now all of a sudden last night the game stopped launching. I am on windows 10 64 bit. I click play and the options thing pops up but when i press play a box on my task bar opens but it's blank and the game stops responding. Has anyone else encountered this issue and if so how did you fix it?

submitted by /u/Neonoles
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Streaming Fallout New Vegas on Mixer, come chat!

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 03:48 PM PDT

mixer.com/Kaycii_The_Dremora

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Fallout: Arizona (Act 2 - Part 2)

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 11:45 AM PDT

ACT 2: Arizona

Part 2 - Vault 39

Vitus revealed that it was the tribals who had once lived in the Kofa mountains, before they became Legion, told stories of spirits that would roam the Sierra. Caesar instilled a religious cult throughout his legions, eradicating superstition from the oral tribal customs and naming himself the Son of Mars, to be both revered and feared, but try as he might the old ways would prevail. The Legion avoided the area as it served no strategic value, but the younger recruits viewed this as evidence that there was in fact, some truth to the legends. The network of tunnels under the mountains was said to be the origin of these spirits, and Vitus surmised, in hope rather than expectation, that they could lose the sicariorum within, by means of irrationality or navigation.

Upon reaching the summit, Gabby was evidently exhibiting symptoms from her battle with the deathclaw. Her breathing was laboured, her bleeding constant, her movements slow and difficult. Haywood suggested that they should rest, but Vitus urged them to continue onwards; it was not far from where he had seen the entrance to the underground. However, due to her slow progress, Gabby suggested that they leave her behind, which would allow them to make a break from the mountains, avoiding the risk of being cornered by their pursuers. Haywood protested, stating that they could easily repel the assassins again if need be. Vitus warned that although they may have succeeded in surprising them initially, the odds of this happening again would be remote. In any case, they would continue to track them across open ground, therefore, their best bet was to lose them underground.

"Where exactly are you taking us?" Asked Haywood.

"Where the men of old used to work. They looked for the aureus."

"What the hell is that?"

"The currency, the… gold."

"Give me a good old-fashioned hub-buck any day." Fernandez remarked wistfully.

"You mean a gold mine?"

"Yes."

"And you've been in these mines?"

"Not exactly…"

"Wait a minute." She placed the back of her hand on his chest; a physical signal indicating for him to stop. "Don't tell me that you believe they're haunted?"

"The spirits are all around us. Some are wrathful, others less so. I would not go alone but… I'm not afraid if you're here."

Vitus continued onwards, brushing past her outstretched arm.

"D'aww, I think he likes you, Skip."

Haywood exhaled a heavy sigh. A superstitious scout and an injured super-mutant; maybe Fernandez was right - that they'd have been better off alone. Following Vitus, they made their way across the ridge until they came to a rusted railway line. It snaked along the barren and dusty plateau, in one direction it disappeared over the other side of the mountain, whilst the other route led into an opening further into the mountain. The entrance façade was braced with decrepit wooden supports and a sign, bent and rusted, that read DANGER - RISK OF CAVE IN. They paused momentarily, silently debating whether they should enter. Haywood, concerned about Gabby, volunteered without a word for point duty, using Law-bringer's affixed artificial torch to light the way.

They followed the rail into the shaft, past rusting carts and dilapidated columns, searching for an area where the tunnel would open up, allowing them to pause and rest. Fernandez cautioned that the whole structure may collapse at any time - not a helpful observation to make at this time, thought Haywood. Law-bringer's light invaded the darkness ahead, paving a way for their safety. The light highlighted an oddity within the tunnel: the rail suddenly came to an abrupt end. Not sheared off or covered by dust, or even periodically missing; just ending in the middle of the tunnel, a mere distance from the entrance.

"That's odd. The rail just ends here."

"What's odd about that?" Asked Fernandez.

"We're barely into the mine. I doubt the miners would carry the gold up to the entrance."

"Maybe someone removed it?"

"Maybe…"

They continued along until the torch failed to detect the walls ahead. Confused, Haywood paused bringing the group to a halt.

"What's wrong?" Asked Vitus.

"I'm not sure. I think maybe the tunnel opens up here."

Making her way forwards she was proved correct. The mine opened up into a vast ante-chamber, so large that Law-bringer was unable to explore the surrounding walls and ceiling. It did, however, bring to light a raised concrete platform ahead of the party. Haywood reached the base of this podium and her light found the far-side wall, indicating a metallic smooth contour that altered in shape as she examined it further along. An immense rippled circle came into view and within its centre an emboldened number in a corroded yellowish colour: 39.

Haywood knew instantly what she had found: a vault – built from the pre-war days to protect the fortunate from the bombs above. The vaults were revered in the Republic due to their contributions in the founding of the capital of the NCR, and the appropriately named Vault City, but many rumours persisted regarding their original purpose, that the Vault-Tec Corporation had other designs in their original implementation.

"It's a vault."

"You're fucking kidding me." Remarked Fernandez making her way to Haywood's side. "One of those death traps?"

"If people are still alive inside, they may be able to provide medical assistance."

"That's assuming they're friendly."

"We have no choice, come on let's have a look around for an intercom or something."

Haywood and Fernandez ascended steel stairs that led up to the platform. Vitus remained behind, confused and slightly apprehensive of the looming steel doorway; unaware of their very existence and concerned over what may lay beyond. Gabby meanwhile, took the opportunity to rest on the steel bannisters of the stairs. Haywood located a console of buttons and levers near the doorway. Computers and technology were not a particular strength of Haywood's, furthermore, she could only be assisted by a former tribal who was unfamiliar with the concept of terminals, an injured super mutant, and a technophobe in Fernandez, but a pre-war ghoul nonetheless who might on the off chance have relevant memory to call upon.

"Do you know what any of this does?"

"No fucking clue. Just press them all."

Haywood concluded that it was a plan, their only plan, and therefore their best plan, and so, proceeded to press every button and pull each lever on the console. Each negated in response - a "click" or a reset. Finally, she came to a large red button, which when pressed kicked the console into life, as dials and switches lighted up accompanied by a chorus of beeps and tunes. A received voice echoed from the console speaker.

"Welcome to Vault-Tec underground facility number thirty-nine. Please state your security password, or key in your security code into the console now, using your assigned pip-boy."

Haywood froze for a moment, unsure what response, if any, would be most appropriate.

"Uh… my name is Captain…"

Before she could finish, a deafening siren rang aloud in conjunction with an orange spiralling light, illuminating the ante-chamber. The great entrance howled and screamed to life; the circular door shifted out of its groove back into the vault itself. A gust of compressed air from within met them, as the door rolled over to its side and out of sight. A blinding light from the vault interior briefly dazzled Haywood until her eyes could adjust. Once the door had settled into place, the light and siren ceased simultaneously. Haywood led by example, and advanced inside, as the rest followed in tow.

A large lobby greeted them, made of pristine bluish metallic walls, empty save for a large counter on the far side, which was occupied by an unfamiliar figure. Before she could react or determine its origin, it seemed to wheel its way out from behind the counter towards them.

"Welcome volunteers! It's good to see some fresh faces!"

The delivery was cheery and upbeat; vocals of a human male, yet possessing a robotic tone.

"Uh, hi. The… door just opened…" Began Haywood.

"Yes, I heard you on the intercom. I'm happy that someone has finally come to take part. Please head into the experimentation wing on your right for processing."

Haywood tried to make sense of what she was seeing. Its 'feet' had the same look of the old-world war vehicles that had been left disabled in the army bases throughout California – tanks as they were once known as. The arms were long and malleable, including metallic pincers which acted as hands, yet the head was its most astonishing feature: a brain – human she believed – encased in a glass dome.

"Um, we're not here for that, our friend is… injured and needs medical help." She continued slowly.

"Ah, then you should talk to our Auto-Doc: PD Shoot. You'll find him in the medical wing through the door on your left, down the corridor, first door on your right."

"Ok, thanks… what do I call you…?"

"Oh, where are my manners! I am Observation Vehicle and Executive Robotic Sentient for Exploratory and Experimental Research, or O.V.E.R.S.E.E.R!"

"It's a robobrain." Ascertained Fernandez. "I remember them from before the war, never seen one in person. Half human, half machine."

"You are correct, Madam. Yet, I am unaware of any conflict. In any case, I'll be happy to escort you to the medical wing after I close the entrance."

"Hold on. Would you mind leaving it open?" Said Haywood.

"What's the matter?" Asked Fernandez.

"I don't like the idea of being sealed inside here."

"Agreed, but what if they're still following us?"

"Guard the entrance, the moment you see or hear anything fall back."

"This is a FUBAR situation, Skipper."

"Once Gabby is cared for, we'll discuss next steps."

Haywood gave Fernandez a nod of assurance and then asked the robobrain to lead the way. The machine propelled itself towards the direction it had previously indicated, and the door automatically hissed open vertically upon approach. Beyond lay a long corridor as pristine as the lobby they were leaving. Haywood held out an arm, poised in the event of Gabby collapsing, yet in reality, it would be of very little practical use if this actuality occurred, but nevertheless provided an emotional sentiment of support.

Wearily, they made their way down to the medical wing entrance, Vitus following cautiously. The door to the medical bay whistled open in the same manner as the one previously. Gurney's lined the room within, each attached with a mixture of intravenous drips. In the corner was a large cylinder, that reminded Haywood of the pre-war Pulowski preservation shelter's that could be found on street corners in the old-world cities, but she recognised it as an auto-doc - a medical machine that functioned as a doctor and surgeon in one – due to the fact that El Centro had its own functioning version within its medical bay.

A Mister Handy – a civilian version of the Mister Gutsy robot - was making its rounds among the beds, tending to non-existent patients. It greeted the newcomers in a strained electronic refined English accent, interchanging between loud panic and gentle composure.

"ARGH! I'm PD Shoot. WHAT DO YOU WANT? And how may I serve you this day?"

"Our… our friend needs help." Haywood indicated to Gabby.

"Let me have a look. DON'T KILL ME!"

"I'm not going to do anything. What is wrong with that thing?" Haywood asked the robobrain.

"PD Shoot forgets himself sometimes. Relax PD, these are friends."

The Mister Handy hovered forwards and began a scan from one of its 'eyes' on the patient before him.

"Foreign substance detected. Multiple lacerations, internal and external bleeding, damaged tissue – diagnosis: 100 percent. JUST LEAVE ME ALONE! Treatment success: 100 percent. Please step into the auto-doc in the corner of the room for further treatment, as I'm not qualified for procedures on an individual of your… err size. PLEASE FORGIVE ME, I'M SUCH A FAILURE."

Gabby glanced at the others before proceeding into the large tube that had opened up for its patient. The cylinder closed behind her and a soft whirring sound began.

"We should not stay here. This place is unholy." Vitus whispered.

Haywood, agreed with the sentiment, although not necessarily with the superstition. These machines appeared to have gone loco, as Fernandez would say, and they were fairly trusting of their new guests. Yet, most concerning was the lack of people present in the vault.

"Where is everyone?" Haywood asked the robobrain.

"Only I and PD Shoot remain. All previous citizens, 'volunteers' and Vault-Tec employees, left on their own accord many years ago, after the completion of the project."

"Project?"

"Yes, this vault was built between 2066 and 2075 for the purpose of housing residents of the city of Phoenix in the avoidable, yet statistically likely event, of a global thermal nuclear exchange. However, the true purpose of the vault's facilities was for intravenous experimentation to test a prototype stealth serum on the vault 'volunteers', but that's top-secret."

"What? A stealth serum?"

"Yes, my programming dictates that 'volunteers' were to be subjected to the sample, but it was clear through physical, mental and verbal analysis, that these individuals were not wholly aware of the nature of the experiment that was being administered. Naturally, I became confused with the definition of volunteer, and so, to be safer than sorry, I ensured that all essential and non-essential personnel should be submitted to the tests."

That explained the roaming 'ghosts' thought Haywood.

"How did you administer these tests?"

"By applying the serum during routine and emergency examinations in the medical facility."

"What?! Are you injecting our friend right now?"

"I… Oh dear, you see I do get confused. Was she not a volunteer? But she must be if she is here. PD are you injecting that human, who is clearly not a human?"

"WHAT? ISN'T THAT WHAT YOU WANTED? It shouldn't be much longer ladies and gentlemen."

"Get her out of there, now!" Ordered Haywood.

"I can't do that, not until I've finished patching it – err her, up. OH, WHY WON'T YOU LET ME FINISH!? Interrupting now could induce the victim, I mean patient, into a coma."

"Well, what does the serum do?"

"Apart from the ability to refract light, side effects include onset memory loss, occasional moments of induced rage, and the possibility of being misplaced by others." Explained the robobrain.

"It, err, she, is very big, though. Maybe it won't be so bad. I'M SO SORRY!"

"How much longer?"

"Shouldn't be much longer. Can I interest you in some tea?"

Gunshots reverberated down the corridor from the lobby. Without hesitation, Haywood made for the door and down the corridor to assist her friend, fearing the worst. The door at the end of the hall opened, revealing Gaius - the coyote head man - holding a wounded Fernandez at the mercy of his sword.

"I'm sorry Skip, they got the jump on me..."

"Quiet!" Gaius silenced his captive. "Captain, please place your weapon on the floor."

After a brief moment, Haywood obeyed. Three legionaries stepped through the doorway, their rifles at the ready, one of whom removed Law-bringer from the floor and proceeded to take the owner hostage.

"Now, where is Vitus?"

"He's in the medical wing."

"Then lead on."

The six entered through the door, two legionaries first, followed by their two captives, and finally Gaius and the remaining legionary. The robobrain made an effort to welcome the newcomers, but Gaius brought his sword down upon it in a single blow, causing it to fall backwards.

"How rude." It commented as it lay prone.

There was no sign of Vitus, but after his name was called, he emerged slowly from behind a gurney at the rear of the room from where he had been hiding.

"Ah, there you are. All of you, on your knees before me if you please."

The three obeyed, their hands raised, averting their gaze from their captors.

Haywood enquired after Fernandez's welfare, but in response was struck across the face by one of the legionaries.

"Speak only when spoken to. Where's your beast?" Asked Gaius slightly perplexed.

"We lost her to a deathclaw in the canyon." Lied Haywood, remaining focused on the unspoilt floor before her.

"Odd, your tracks indicate otherwise."

Gaius became aware of PD Shoot and then the cylinder within the room.

"You, open that machine."

PD Shoot obeyed, but upon the cylinder's opening, there was nothing to be seen within. Gaius sighed through his nostrils.

"Acario, watch the door."

The legionary obeyed as the other two continued to guard their hostages. Gaius pointed his sword at Haywood.

"So, here we have the bear-warrior. I'm assuming you did this to me. Indicating his injured left arm. You have spirit. You'll make a fine slave; after we break you in, of course."

Haywood raised her head slowly to greet him with a piercing stare. He smiled and continued down the line of prisoners.

"The traitor."

He bent down onto his haunches and forcefully occupied Vitus' line of sight.

"Hello Vitus, we've been looking for you. Don't worry, I'm not going to kill you. I'm to deliver you personally to Centurion Ungala. He has something special lined up for traitors."

Vitus began to tremble slightly.

"You're pathetic. A disgrace to the Legion. It makes me sick just to look at you, but orders are orders. And the Centurion needs to feed."

He rose and studied Fernandez.

"This dead walker, however, must be dealt with. Not worthy enough to be a slave, below the dissolute even. Your charred corpse should long be rotting in the ground."

Fernandez raised her head and narrowed her eyes at the coyote face which rested upon his forehead.

"So, I gotta ask, what's the deal with you? Are you so ugly you have to hide under the skin of an animal?"

Gaius didn't respond initially to Fernandez's insult, instead, he waited a moment and then proceeded to raise his sword, bringing it down at an angle onto her neck, enough to decapitate her ancient body from her head. Haywood leapt into him, grabbing him by his tunic.

"I'm going to fucking destroy you." She spat and screamed.

Gaius responded, striking the hilt into her face, causing her to reel onto the floor.

"You need to learn some manners, girl."

As soon as he had finished his remark, one of his legionaries levitated in the air, screaming for help, only to be split in half a moment later.

"The ghosts!" Exclaimed the other legionary, dropping his guard as he witnessed the horror.

The legionary on guard came to assist, firing wildly in the direction of the kill, but his head caved in after he had discharged a few rounds. Gaius dropped his sword in confused panic, making his way to the exit. Haywood retrieved his sword, and by circumnavigating behind the stunned final legionary, she fatally pierced the sword into his back. Withdrawing it, she collected Fernandez rifle from the dead legionary and pursued her last victim.

"Captain!" Vitus called after her.

Gaius, having made it to the lobby, was almost at the vault entrance as Haywood emerged from the corridor, she opened fired one-handed, aiming purposefully for his legs, and in striking him successfully he stumbled forwards. She released the gun and walked calmly towards the wailing legionary. Vitus entered the lobby to witness the events unfold. Gaius turned onto his back and raised his hands in surrender.

"No, please! Mercy! I was only following orders." He pleaded.

Haywood grabbed him by the coyote cowl and in one movement opened his throat with his own sword. The man gasped and gurgled as blood poured onto his chest. She released him, as he bled out onto the immaculate marble of the vault. She dropped the sword turning to Vitus, who remained still.

"Captain, I…"

Without a word, she passed him, retrieving Fernandez's weapon, before making her way back to the medical wing.

Stupid, she thought. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Fernandez's body lay on the gurney before her, undercover, her rifle placed atop. The medical bay was empty, aside from her, a request from Haywood before she left the vault for good, in order to say farewell to her comrade. Haywood released her gaze from the body to the dog tag that she held intently in her hand. A tear escaped down her scarred cheek, but she quickly erased its existence.

Her mind was racing: So stupid, too many mistakes, too many variables. She should have closed the door behind them. The legionaries must have known about this place; the layout and how to approach the entrance way. Vitus, on the other hand, had led them to a dead end, and his answer was to cower. A part of her felt aggrieved at the shittiness of the situation, that perhaps there was no one to blame. Fernandez's life, though, was worth more than that, and Vitus had been running from threats before they had even met him. She had so much hate and anger to give.

On the other hand, Gabby had now saved them for the second time, and her reward was quarantine. PD Shoot remarked that despite her ability to display cognitive control, the serum could invoke unexpected moments of aggression without discerning between individuals. To Haywood's surprise, Gabby obliged, weary and overwhelmed by the events that had taken place that day. She was tired of death, of wanting to enact revenge, that was failing to sate an appetite growing within her. The world rejected her, and she was feeling lost without a home. She had promised herself that Sunrise would be the end of her journey, and was prepared to protect her fellow settlers. However, she had now come to terms that there was no defeating the barbarism of the Legion, at least not with violence. Haywood remarked that she had lost a friend to violence, and another to pacifism in one day.

"We all knew the risks of this mission. Fernandez especially, she was a soldier. Vitus, he's unprepared for what's coming, but he won't stop to save his friend. He's made mistakes, and he'll continue to do so. If you continue to follow him then you will pay with your life. You're a soldier, I get that, but there are other ways to save people; to be more useful."

Haywood pondered these words that Gabby had parted upon her through an intercom after she had been placed in isolation. Haywood disclosed the information on the holotape to her, stating that duty was now only a secondary consideration. Gabby relented, yet reminded her that Vitus may have been of the Legion once, but was by no means typical of them and that any ill feeling towards him should be kept aside if they were to succeed.

Haywood set her hand on the soft sheet before her. She wanted to say something, but there was nothing left to say. Without a word, she headed for the door.

submitted by /u/MiddleClassSoftie
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How many models of power armor are there in Fallout 4?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 03:19 PM PDT

What is the best type of power armor in Fallout 4?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 02:59 PM PDT

I have T-51 but I don't think it's the best power armor.

submitted by /u/sbart1115
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28 Days And A Bit for NV?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 02:58 PM PDT

Not long after Skyrim came out, there was a mod that was uploaded to the Nexus called 28 Days And A Bit 5, which was part of a zombie mod series that started in Oblivion, I believe. Basically, it allows you to create a zombie apocalypse in your own way. Patient Zero infects and zombifies one NPC in the world where it spreads over time. Dawn Of The Dead infects every community so it's immediate chaos. There are several more, with a diverse customization menu.

The same creator ported the mod over to Skyrim Special Edition last year, but it would be interesting to see something similar to this mod for Fallout New Vegas.

Many of the zombie mods either don't have exactly what I'm looking for, or don't execute it correctly, only spawning the zombies in a couple of towns and nowhere else. I'd like to see something that 28DAAB gave off.

submitted by /u/IAmTheNight2014
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When to start Far Harbor?

Posted: 04 Nov 2017 02:25 PM PDT

Hi! I have just completed 'Getting a Clue' in the main quest line (survival mode) I have met The Minutemen and BoS and done a couple of quests for each faction. I have not met The Railroad yet.

Would I miss out on a lot in Far Harbor if I start the story now or do you recommend to de jump in later

submitted by /u/thousande
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