>>6132283“I am glad your biological optic sensors are in a good state. The explosion of an ocular ray amplifier usually renders the user blind, but I did install some further safety precautions that I developed during the last 20 years.” Brainiac says.
You let out a gentle sigh in relief. “What about the collar I have on?”
“Without being physically present in some way, I cannot pinpoint the collar’s signal receptors. We may also run the risk of triggering a failsafe that would cause it to explode.”
“So? I continue with the Emperor’s plan?”
“Yes, you must gain his trust, have him remove the collar, then strike against him.”
“Gain his trust and strike him? But… I mean… he’s a smart Rackerian. He may be a good governor.”
“We cannot be lenient with those who fight back against the Empire, Zor’El.” Brainiac’s robotic tone shows a hint of disappointment. “The Emperor is using you for his own gain, you must use him for yours.”
For a moment, Brainiac goes silent, it’s processing. “The daughter. You can use her to gain the Emperor’s trust. Earn her trust and friendship, Zor’El.”
You stay silent and look back towards the cockpit. Laria is looking on at the Rackerian sky in front of her. “Laria’s friendship?”
“Participating in a covert operation together is a good way to build rapport. Keep her safe and make sure she believes she is your comrade and friend. Her relationship with you will influence her father positively, and he may remove the collar. Kazarrian tradition obligates one to treat their comrades-in-arms as equals.”
Brainiac pauses and thinks. “The intelligence department of Kazarria will soon regain control of their downed satellite. Our communications will cut. I will reengage as soon as I am able.”
“Wait, but… How do I make her my friend? She hates Kryptonians!”
Your reply is pure silence. Brainiac’s gone.
You sit on your bedside and look at Laria. You never had a friend. How does it work?
You get up and approach her, she looks back at you. “I think you talk in your sleep.” She says.
You freeze for a moment and clench your fist.
“I couldn’t hear what it was from here, but you were murmuring.” She continues.
“Yeah uh- I do that sometimes.” You reply trying to hide your sudden relief. Why didn’t she check what you were saying?
Laria brings her feet up onto the pilot’s seat and hugs her knees. “You know, you’re the first woman my age I spend time with.”
Huh? What’s this about? Didn’t she hate you just a moment ago? “Really?”
“Yeah. I’m the heir of Kazarria. I’m supposed to study, train and fight. I only speak to fellow soldiers or teachers.”
“You’re the heir?” You ask, surprised.
“I’m my father’s only child.” She says.
“I thought he’d have more, considering he’s the emperor.”
“He never had another woman after my mother died.”
Oh.
