The Gang of Five
Role Play => Random Role Play => Finished RP's => Topic started by: Serris on March 18, 2009, 05:46:53 PM
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Discussion is here (http://www.gangoffive.net/index.php?topic=4956). Please place all character profiles there.
Rule set:
You can play as the soldiers, experiments, scientists.
Scientists - have access to all areas of the base and thus access to the advanced weaponry but they are physically weak and have no combat related skills.
Soldiers - have access to small weaponry (small arms, grenades and the like) from the onset and have access to many combat related skills but have limited access to areas in the base.
Psi-Experiments - have psionic powers but have almost no access to areas in the base and are not too good with technology. They also have no combat related skills.
Cyber-Experiments - masters of technology and have a cybernetic enhancement. But have almost no access to various areas. No combat related skills.
Dragonstorm experiments - capable of using psionic powers and have a cybernetic enhancement. They are very limited in mental capabilities (capable of following orders and limited speech but that's about it). Dragonstorm experiments sport 1 psi and 1 cyber enhancement (up to 3 total in any combination). Note that they must have a weakness of some sort, no matter how small.
NOTE: Humans and Furries can be any faction.
NOTE: Allied scientists can start only with a pistol, improvised weapon or nothing.
NOTE: Any faction can use heavier weaponry (RPGs, grenades, etc.)
NOTE: Only soldiers can use armored vehicles and crew served weaponry.
NOTE: All Dragonstorm experiments are enemy aligned.
NOTE: Scientists, soldiers and cyber and psi experiments can be enemy aligned or allied.
NOTE: Allied scientists and soldiers can either start inside Pelvanida or outside (perhaps in a military base?)
NOTE: If you decide to use your old characters, they must start outside the base.
This is a mixed Human and anthro world.
You may have as many characters as you can control
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Introduction:
A mere two weeks after the terrorist assault at Nevada's top secret Pelvanida Complex, reports of a mysterious project "Dragonstorm" have surfaced in the local media. The government, fearing a massive public relations disaster, has ordered the personnel who helped fight off the terrorist assault to be fired from Pelvanida and banned from ever working with the government and promised a full investigation into the matter.
After about three months, the investigation has revealed the guilty: Dragonstorm scientists. They were convicted and sentenced for multiple counts of assault, kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment. Each received life in prison without parole.
But only a month had passed before the Dragonstorm scientists were released from prison and back at Pelvanida. "Insufficient evidence" was cited as the cause of their release, but many, especially the former Pelvanida staff had their suspicions.
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Aisha parked her car into an available spot and killed the engine. she readied her clearance pass, and patted the small 32. caliber she had been given by her father. Today was her first day on the base, which had seen heavy fighting and incurred heavy damage from the Dragonstorm afffair. Aisha had been hired to work with a Dr. Zaniasu..
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Hans was standing gaurd at the door and saw aisha walking up "I need to see your clearence before you can go any further,' he said.
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Aisha brought out her clearance pass. "Aisha Tennes, I'm here to see DR. Zaniusu, I've been assigned to him as an understudy.." She said..
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Hans looked at the clearence card before giving it back and said before opening the door and holding it open "welcome to Pelvanida ms Tennes'.
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"Thank you" Aisha said, , nodding as she walked through the dooor, and down a rubble-cluttered hallway. Here and there she could see gaping holes where insulation was visible. "Its going to take a lot of tax dollars to fix this place up.. " she thought..
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(OOC - All previous scientists from the original RP were fired to avoid attracting bad publicity. I'll work that in to the dialogue.)
One of the workers, an anthro Bison, who was pushing a cart filled with concrete rubble through the halls, looked at Aisha. "I hear you're looking for Dr. James Zanasiu?"
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Dr. Zanasiu had just arrived back at his suburban Las Vegas home. He parked his car and entered his house.
He looked at a newspaper on his front step. "This is yesterday's newspaper. Oh well, can't hurt to see what it is." he muttered.
He picked up the newspaper and headed into his house locking the door behind himself.
As Dr. Zanasiu brewed a cup of tea, he read today's newspaper. He chuckled to himself as he got to the entertainment section. There, he saw a ad for a movie based on the terrorist attack at Pelvanida months before. "Wow, the government tries to keep something secret and Hollywood wants to make a blockbuster film of it."
As he finished reading the rest of the newspaper he turned to the old newspaper he picked up on his front step. When he opened it, a small piece of white paper fell out.
Dr. Zanasiu picked up the piece of paper and read it. His mouth fell open at the contents. It was in Zachary's handwriting:
James, come to my house quickly. I'll tell you more.
Dr. Zanasiu shivered; Zachary was never so secretive unless something huge had happened.
He sighed, went up to this bedroom and grabbed his .45 pistol and holster and put it on.
He then went to his car, started it up and drove to Zachary's house.
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Zachary was sitting on his couch, facing him was a Cobalt Squad soldier.
"So did James receive your note?" the Cobalt soldier asked him.
"I placed it on his doorstep before he arrived home from work. He should have gotten it and knowing him, he takes anything very seriously." Zachary replied.
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(OOC: series does that go for all the surviving characters from the original RP?)
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(I'm guessing so)
"If you're looking for Zanisu, Miss, he no longer works here" Said a scientist, coming up to her. 'he was let go after the Dragonstorm business, him and all of those guys. I think it was to keep them quiet , and keep this place open. If they had talked this place would have been thrown down and left to revert to nature you catch my drift.." the scentist said..
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(OOC - Only the Pelvanida staff (scientists and guards). Hans was a terrorist in the previous RP; he is not affected by the decision to fire the scientists and guards. And you really can't fire the experiments.)
After a half hour drive, Dr. Zanasiu arrived at Zachary's house. The door was opened and he was quickly ushered into the house.
"Nice to see you James." Zachary said, shutting and locking the door behind him. "Head to the living room."
Dr. Zanasiu did as he was told and to his shock, he found a Cobalt soldier sitting on a couch.
"What are you doing here?" Dr. Zanasiu asked?
"We need to talk, it's about what you found in Pelvanida. I'll give a briefing, then we'll head over to Carson City Camp, where we are based." the Cobalt soldier replied.
Dr. Zanasiu sat down on a nearby recliner.
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Werner was sitting in a dinner drinking a cup of coffee after being fired he had got a job as chief of security at a Casino in Las Vegas. He took out his cell phone and called James.
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Dr. Zanasiu's cell phone rang. "Hello?"
Zachary gestured for him to put cell phone away.
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"Hello James? It's me Werner,' Werner said.
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"Werner? If you're free; come to Zachary's house immediately!" Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to Zachary. "It's Werner."
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Yes I am' aisha replied. "Where can I find him?' she asked the Bison..
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"I just got on break I'll be right there would it be alright if my dad comes too,' werner asked.
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"I'm not sure. I'll check." Dr. Zanasiu replied. He then turned to the Cobalt soldier. "Werner and Hans Donitz are coming here."
"Good. We'll need them." Zachary replied.
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Inside Pelvanida Complex, Dr. Keith Bailey was looking over the vast array of monitors.
"Hey, Dr. Bailey, what happened to the previous control room admin?" a technician asked.
Dr. Bailey sighed. "You mean Dr. Rudyard Shelton? He was deported but something didn't add up; he was cited for 'unauthorized access to classified materials' but yet he was not arrested. They simply just told him to pack his stuff and get the hell out."
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The Scientist who had first spoken to Aisha came up to her. "Names Micah Landon.. You need inside informatio I'm your man.." He whispered..
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As the group at James's house began talking, a soft knock on the door was heard...
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Hans had already got off work when he heard his cellphone ring "hello,' he said. "Dad it's me Werner I need you to get to James place,' werner said. "Alright I'm on my way,' hans replied hanging up his cell phone.
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(OOC - everyone is at Zachary's house)
Zachary heard a knocking on his door. He motioned to Dr. Zanasiu and the Cobalt soldier, who drew their pistols and followed Zachary.
Zachary opened the door. "Hello?"
The Cobalt soldier and Dr. Zanasiu had their pistols at the ready.
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Inside the Carson City Camp, the base commander, General Thomas Moby, a anthro Bulldog was brooding in his office.
"I need Dr. Zanasiu and all the staff involved at the terrorist attack at Pelvanida to be at this base." He radioed to the Cobalt Commander.
"Sir, they should be arriving soon, sir." the Cobalt Commander's voice replied.
"Thank you, Commander." Gen. Moby then cut off the transmission.
Gen. Moby sighed and looked at the newspaper on his desk. The headline was: Two children abducted by mysterious labcoat clad Cheetah
"I know I'm probably breaking every military protocol there is but it seems like I have no choice. Dragonstorm appears to be up and running. The president can't do anything because he's completely oblivious or doesn't give a damn. And worse is Pelvanida itself seems to have fallen off the map. "
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The Bison turned to Aisha. "I'm here just to clean up but rumor has it Dr. Zanasiu and a bunch of other scientists were fired for finding out about some kind of secret project." he whispered to her.
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Werner drove out to the gates of the facility 'I can't beleive you accecpted a job as a security agent here,' werner said. "Well it's a start,' hans said. 'James wants us to meet him at his place in carson city,' werner said. "Well lets get going then,' hans said as he and werner got into werner's car and drove off.
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(OOC - I thought Starfall's characters were knocking? I guess they can arrive later. Oh well, I'll work with what you did.)
"Werner? Hans? Come inside quickly!" Zachary said, ushering them inside.
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Great so I'm supposede to work for a guy..' aisha began.. before a human saergabt came up to them. 'Ms. Tennes, You will be working in therBiloogy lab here on base.. Come with me please.." He clicked his heels in trained military and bade her come with him. "Sergant Topper at your service ms. Tennes."
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"Actually, it was us who happened to be knocking."
Came a familiar voice, as Cale, Neku, and the others dropped down from the roof.
"Sorry about not being more obvious, but we're all supposed to be dead. You understand, right?"
Kagetora said calmly. He was rather a strange sight, wearing a suit and tie instead of his customary ninja attire. Hawkeye, too, looked out of place, with his mechanical eye hidden by his new hairstyle, and his other mechanical components hidden under a sport coat and slacks...
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"Good! Come in quickly!" Zachary said, ushering Cale, Kagetora, Neku and Hawkeye into his house and locking the door behind them.
"Nice to see you all again." the Cobalt soldier said.
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"Shall we start the briefing?" Zachary asked.
"Hans and Werner Donitz need to be here." the Cobalt soldier replied. He then turned to everyone present. "Listen up, once the Werner and Hans get here, I gill give a quick briefing on the situation. Once that is done, we will be heading over to Carson City Camp to meet with the base commander, General Thomas Moby."
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(OOC: should I edit my previous post?)
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(I'll bringing Aisha over to Carson City camop, along with a couple other characters..)
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(OOC - Nick, that's fine. F-22, you may want to edit your post.)
"Do not tell me this is about 'Dragonstorm'." Dr. Zanasiu said.
The Cobalt soldier nodded.
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Suddenly the phoine rang it was a strange number. In fact it Was Aisha'a father, trying to reach DR. Zaniusu..
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A car drove up outside DR. Zaniusus house and a pair of familer voices came from outside 'This it,' hans asked. "Yeah this is it,' werner said before they walked up to the door and werner knocked on the door.
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Zachary picked up the phone. "Hello?"
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Dr. Keith Bailey, an anthro Australian Monitor was monitoring the base's sensors when the Pelvanida Administrator's voice came over his radio. "Dr. Bailey, kill communications with the outside world."
"Pardon?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"Do not ask questions do it."
"This is against all protocol!"
The voice made a noise of disgust. "[censored] protocol! This is bigger than that."
"If you're trying to get me to help you hide that damned Dragonstorm experiment, forget it! I was willing to look the other way until I found out that you were kidnapping children for this! You can kiss my scaly ass!" Dr. Bailey spat.
Dr. Bailey got up and tried to exit the control room only to find out that the door was locked. "Open the door!"
Dr. Ian Branston, an anthro bay Thoroughbred chuckled. "So sorry, Dr. Bailey. But we can't let you leave the complex." Dr. Branston then disabled all of the base's external communications. He then radioed a security squad. "Sierra Tango Five, maintain the radio tower."
"So, you're...you're in on it too!?" Dr. Bailey spat, shaking with rage.
"Took you this long? Do you know a certain Keegan O'Neill?"
"He's in jail!"
"No he's not. But I can't tell you where he is."
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Dr. Zanasiu and the Cobalt Soldier drew their pistols and opened the door and found Hans and Werner outside.
The Cobalt Soldier quickly ushered them in. "Come in!" he whispered.
Dr. Zanasiu quickly bolted the door and closed all the curtains in the living room where everyone was gathered. "Okay, that's everyone."
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Hello, I am looking for DR. Zaniusu Is he there?' Came the reply...
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Zachary handed the phone to Dr. Zanasiu.
"This is Dr. Zanasiu." Dr. Zanasiu replied. "Who is this."
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Dr. Donald Tennens, at your service. i had hoped that me daughter, Aisha could study under you. She's newly graduated from Stanford, and I'd like her to learn from the best in the business..."Dr Tennens replied. "I know things have not... gone well for you and your colleagues over the past two months..but I am willing to personally hire you, on my own dime, to tutor Aisha for the next 3 years. 100000 a year, for 3 years... How does that sound, Dr.?"
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"I gotta bad feeling about what's going on at Pelvanida I just have a feeling that something bad is going on there,' hans said.
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"Dr. Tennens, I am very sorry but I am currently working with the pharmaceuticals company Krebs-Calvin and I have my hands full. I'll see if I can get her a position as an intern at Krebs-Calvin." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"What do you mean, Hans?" Zachary asked. He then pondered for a moment. "Now that you think about it, something is weird, we were banned from ever working with the government and fired from Pelvanida and we're relatively obscure, yet by all rights we should be heroes."
(OOC - random bio reference!)
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Red Lights started flashing across the baseAisha, suddenly, turned, and gragged Landon, and the Bison carrying a push broom along with her. "This is too heavy! Come on you two! Come with me!' Landom shrugged at the Bison. "Where do you plan to go?' He asked. "Carson City.." Aisha replied. "Dr. Zaniusu isn't here.. so I'm going there... and you guys are coming with me. Aisha said firmly..
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"Well since I was hired as a part time security agent there thought there are some areas that they didn't allow me into I could get you guys in there if you wanted to,' hans said.
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'Dr, I can make it VERY worth your while. I know you'd much rather be back on base.. well I can make it happen.. off the record of course.. came the reply. "Name your price.."
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Dr. Branston viewed one of the monitors and saw Aisha dragging off the Bison construction worker and Dr. Landon. He quickly radioed a security squad. "Sierra Tango 1! We have an assault or possible kidnapping in progress! Lock down all base exits!"
Dr. Bailey got to his feet, looked at the monitor, recognized Aisha and snatched the radio. "Cancel that call! There is no..."
Dr. Branston grabbed the radio back and pushed Dr. Bailey into a metal table. "There is kidnapping in progress! Dr. Landon is being kidnapped!"
Dr. Bailey recovered and tackled Dr. Branston, sending the radio clattering to the ground.
Dr. Branston punched Dr. Bailey who clawed him in an attempt to get back to his feet.
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"Wave your security passes" Aisha whispered to both the bison and Landon. "I'm sorry about this, but I need help.. and you were the cloest guys at hand..'
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Lucky us" Landon replied "You didn't have do this you know.. this could be viewed as a kidnapping.." "No it won't, I'm not holding you guys at gunpoint, or anything.. aisha replied.. "You guys are coming along freely.. freely..
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Landon pulled out his security pass to the guard at the door. "We're taking Miss Tennes, off base for a break..." He said to the guard. "Company guidelines though require that she be accompanied at all times, since she still is .. under training" Landon said..
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The Bison pulled out his contractor pass and showed it to the guard.
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Dr. Branston had managed to wrestle Dr. Bailey into a nearby closet but he received several deep scratches on his face in the process.
He then grabbed the radio and found out that it was broken thanks to the tumble it took. He looked at the monitor. He cursed as he saw that Dr. Landon, the Bison construction worker and Aisha were nowhere in sight.
"They got away. No matter. I'll have the whole base locked down." he muttered.
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Carry on" The guard replied, as Aisha, DR. Landon and the Bison walked out to Aisha's car. Dr. Landon, get in back. MR . Bison, the passenger seat is yours" Aisha sai, climbing in the driver's seat and starting the engine. "We need to get out of here.. I've got a bad feeling about whats going on here.. those red lights, well. they..
"
weren'r natural... they usually aren't turned on unless an attack is imminent or somethig of high importance is underway.. Landon said..nodding.
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What's your name?' Aisha asked the Bison. "I'm, Aisha Tennes, I'm pretty sure you know Dr. Landon.." She motioned back to the doctor, as she made her way to the gate, where they would have to show thier passes once more, then they'd be clear...
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The guards quickly waved them through "Just remember MIss Tennes to bring these guys back. they do have to clock out to go home" The guard smiled friendly as he waved them through. "Have a nice break.."he smiled, as he turned to attend to the next person leaving..
Aisha sighed a big sigh of relief as they put distance between themselve and the base.. "That was pretty hairy.." She looked apologetically at her two passengers. "I'm got some drinks and snacks in a cooler back there, guys, help yourselves..
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Do you have BBQ- flavored chips?' Landon asked. "Yeah I got those small "Pringle paks" or whatever they're called. Original, Sour Cream and onion, and BBQ" aisha nodded. "For Soda, I've got root beer, DR. Pepper, and regular coke.. It might be a bit warm, sorry if thats the case, forgot to get ice tioday.."
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The Bison looked out the window. "It doesn't seem like an attack is impending. What gives? And my name is Alfred Byford. And if there is something crazy going on in that base, what can I do? I'm not a soldier. I mean, being from a rural area, I grew up around firearms and have been target shooting but I've actually been in a war zone."
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"well Alfred, I've been taught from a early age thart heros come in all shapes and forms.." Aisha smiled, reaching back and handing him a soda with her free hand.." that, and fate has a way of guiding us to our destinies. Your destiny isn't to clean up rubble.." She said. "Isn't there something you REALLY wanted to do?
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what I'd REALLY want.. is a toasted meatball sub" Dr. Landon cracked, taking a few pringles and popping them in his mouth..
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Alfred accepted the soda and opened it. "Well, I've always been interested in the sciences but I just never got the opportunity to go to college."
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Dr. Zansasiu was still on the phone. "Erm. I would like to be working at Pelvanida but I'm not sure how that can be realized. Everyone who was involved in the previous attack was banned from ever working with the government."
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"So how have you all been doing,' hans asked everyone else in the room.
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"I'm teaching AP Biology at a private school." Zachary replied.
"I'm working as a researcher with Krebs-Calvin Pharmaceuticals." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
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"I've got connections inside the military. You will be brought, informally of course, back on base.. Ostenibly your job will be to train my daughter. In reality your job will be to investigate the Dragonstorm. I need not remind you that these are very powerful people we are dealing with here, people who can make things.. difficult.. with little effort on thier end.. Dr Tennes said. "So what do you say..
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I can get you into Stanford, if you want. I know a lot of people around campus, and my dad can pull some strings for you..." Aisha offered..
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Dr. Zanasiu thought a moment. "Dr. Tennes, I am at my friend's house with one of the Cobalt soldiers and the others who were previous involved at Pelvanida."
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Alford sighed. "Thanks. But what's going on there?"
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You mean back there? WEll, I'm not sure.. I just had a bad feeling,klike I had to get out' Aisha said slowly..
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All I want Dr. Zaniusu, is a yes or no, answer" Dr Tennes replied. "Do you want the job, or not?"
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Dr. Zanasiu took a deep breath. "Yes. I will accept that job. Um, can you come over to Zachary's house? We'll talk more about it here."
Zachary looked at Dr. Zanasiu. "Who's that?"
Dr. Zanasiu covered the mouthpiece of the phone and turned to Zachary. "Someone named 'Dr. Tennes'. He wants us to investigate 'Dragonstorm'."
"That's what the Gen. Moby wants as well." the Cobalt Soldier said.
Zachary sighed. "Well, we'll need to wait until everyone arrives."
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Certainly., I'll be there in 15 minutes" the phone on the other side went dead. Dr Tennes had hung up..
Fifteen minutes later a white SUV pulled up in the driveway.. a man in his late 40s , but dressed in very fine clothes, climbed out of the SUV and went to the front door. He rang the doorbell and stood erect at the door, waiting for the door to be answered..
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Cale, Hawkeye, Neku, Agtio, Slash, and Kagetora all stayed seated, each looking impassively at the door.
"Someone going to go get that?"
Cale finally asked drolly...
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"I'll get it." Dr. Zanasiu said. He opened the door. "Ah, you must be Dr. Tennes, please come in."
The Cobalt Soldier had his pistol drawn.
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Dr Tennes entered. "I'm not armed gentlemen" He said raising his hands and showing he wasn't armed. "I'm here to tell you what your mission will be..a very dangerous one, with severe risk to life and limb. If you are successful however, the rewards will be well worth the risk. Shutting down Dragonstorm will save the government hiundreds of billions of dollars, not to mention leaving Pandora's Box unopened. I will see to it, that all of you will be richly rewarded.." He said. "I was in the military when I was younger, rising to the rank of Admiral, and I still have connections there today, which is why I am able to do this.."
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The Cobalt Soldier put his pistol away. "Dr. Tennes, were you sent by Gen. Moby of the Carson City Camp? He has told us to find the personnel involved with the previous attack at Pelvanida and stop Dragonstorm by any means."
"So I guess that means were are on the same side?" Zachary said.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Dragonstorm is a disgrace to Pelvanida and the US Military. We cannot allow children to be kidnapped and used for experiments. I accept this mission." He then turned to the group, "Hans, Werner, Zachary, Cale, Hawkeye, Neku, Agtio, Slash, Kagetora, everyone, do you agree to this mission?"
Zachary nodded. "I accept."
The Cobalt soldier nodded. "I accept."
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"So Aisha, Dr. Landon, where are we going?" Alford asked, sipping from a bottle of water.
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Carson City base, My father will meet us there.." Aisha replied.
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No, I came here on my own. But I Know Gen Moby, I served with his father while in the military, he's a good and honorable man. Yes, this program is an abonimation, as bad as the Tuskagee experiements in the 30s. Meddling with nature, and using children as guinea pigs is digusting.. You must stop them at any costs.." Dr Tennes replied..
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"I have no problem with the other experiments there as they relied on informed consent and volunteers. But Dragonstorm is something that's... beyond disgusting." Zachary said.
"It's not like we can just walk into Pelvanida. And besides we're not armed." Dr. Zanasiu said.
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Alford looked out the window at the desolate Nevadian scrublands. "So what are we going to when we get there? I'm just a contractor; I didn't have clearance to enter the labs. "
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I'll take care of that' Aisha replied.. 'You'll get clearance, don't worry"
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That is why You'll have to arm yourselves, and disguise yourselves as well.." DR Tennes replied..
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"Armament is no problem. We can get all you need at the Carson City Camp." the Cobalt Soldier replied.
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"So how am I supposed to help this team?" Alford asked, taking a sip from his water bottle.
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You're a 300 pound Bison with razor sharp horn. You hit someone with those, they're not getting up.." Aisha said.. Failing that, how good are you at firing a gun?"
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"Well, I am accustomed to heavy labor and I am extremely strong, possibly even stronger than a Human Olympic weightlifter." Alford replied. "And as I have said, I grew up in a rural farming community and around firearms. Skeet shooting was particular favorite activity of mine but I have done various other firearms related activities. But we're going into a military base where the guards don't want us; skeet shooting is totally different."
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Dr. Zanasiu looked at Dr. Tennes. "Dr. Tennes, is Aisha Tennes coming here or are we meeting her somewhere else?"
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"We're in with you guys,' hans said. 'We can not allow dragonstorm to do this,' werner said.
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We're meeting her at the carson City base" Dr Tennes replied. "She has heard much of you..and would enjot learning under you.. your reputation precedes you, even at a young age.."
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"I guess we'd better get going then." Zachary said, getting to his feet.
"Cale, Hawkeye, Neku, Agtio, Slash, Kagetora, we'll have to disguise or hide you somehow until we reach Carson City Camp." Dr. Zanasiu said.
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Kagetora smirked.
"Like I need to disguise myself anymore? I feel like an idiot wearing a business suit. I think I'm set."
He said calmly.
Hawkeye nodded.
"The same for me. I'm pretty well disguised, too."
He laughed.
Cale flickered out of view.
"Set to go, James."
He stated with a chuckle.
Neku nodded.
"Me, Agito, and Slash will need some help. Especially those two."
He said, indicating Agito and Slash with his head...
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Zachary thought a moment. "Hmm. You could ride inside a cargo trailer or we could hide you in the bed of a pickup truck and cover you with a tarp."
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"Do what you think is best" Dr Tennes replied.
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"I personally think a cargo trailer is the most safe way to transport them. If we have them lie down in a pickup truck they could fall." Zachary said.
Dr. Zanasiu looked at Neku, Agito, and Slash. "Which mode of transport would you prefer?"
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"And where are we going to get a cargo trailer?" the Cobalt soldier asked.
"I rented one when I did some construction work on my house." Zachary replied.
"Do we have a vehicle capable of towing a cargo trailer?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"My SUV should be able to tow it."
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"That might just work,' hans said.
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"I'm going to hitch up the trailer. Agito, Slash, Neku, I will be driving slowly so you will not jostled excessively. There are straps you can use to steady yourselves in the trailer." Zachary said.
"Won't driving so slowly arouse suspicion?" the Cobalt Soldier asked.
Zachary shook his head. "Driving fast is more likely to arouse suspicion; bystanders will think I'm carrying concrete or lumber."
"Ah, so they'll think the trailer contains construction material?"
"Exactly!" Zachary then exited the house.
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Agito sighed.
"If it was anyone but you asking, Master James, I would refuse. But it is you, so...Alright."
He said, an irritated look on his face.
Neku chuckled.
"Sweet! Road Trip!"
He laughed...
Slash simply rolled his eyes and looked over at the group...
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'you'd best get going. good luck to all of you. These men are fascist scum, Mussolini would have hailed them as il fasciti.." Tennes replied. "
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Zachary entered the house. "Agito, Slash, Neku the trailer is ready."
Dr. Zanasiu looked at the group. "Everyone ready to roll? We might need to take your SUV."
"I'll drive." the Cobalt Soldier said.
Zachary shook his head. "Can you drive an SUV towing a a trailer?"
"Um, no."
"You can sit up with me in the front seat. You'll show me the way to Carson City Camp." Zachary said, exiting the house. The Cobalt Soldier followed.
Dr. Zanasiu went outside.
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"Exactly where is Carson City Camp?" Alford asked.
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Just outside of the Capital, a several hour drive" Aisha replied. "We'll drive through somewhere if you get hungry
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The chips and Soda should last us to the camp" came the doctor's reply from the back. "If not, I have money to buy food..
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"I just had lunch." Alford said.
-----------
Zachary started up the engine of his SUV. "Guys! We're ready to roll!"
The Cobalt Soldier jumped into the front passenger seat.
Dr. Zanasiu sat in the second row seats.
-
Aisha kept driving onward towards the horizon. "You can turn on the radio if you want. I don't care what music you listen to" She said to Alford.
-
"Werner! Hans! Are you ready to go?" Zachary asked.
------
Alford turned on the radio to a classical station. "So how can be sure that the soldiers at the Carson City Camp will believe us? I mean, they'll believe Dr. Landon but will they believe me?"
-
Absolutely, We'll vouch for you" Aisha said confidently. 'Oh the 1812 Overture! Turn it up please!' She said hhearing a favorite tune..
-
Alford nodded and turned the radio up.
-
"I prefer the Blue Danube Waltz" But thats just me " Landon said, cracking a grin, as the trio listened intently to the beautiful music
_
-
"Yeah we're ready,' hans said as werner and him got into their cars.
-
Alford laughed. "I prefer In the Hall of the Mountain King."
-----------
"Cale, Hawkeye, Kagetora, Neku, Agito, Slash! We're almost ready to roll!" Zachary said. "How far to Carson City Camp?" he asked, turning to the Cobalt Soldier.
"About a few hours drive, it's just outside Carson City and a lot closer than Pelvanida." the Cobalt Soldier responded.
-
"Right!"
Cale said, cloaking out and latching himself onto the roof of the vehicle...
"I hear you, James."
Kagetora said, hopping into the SUV...
"Understood!"
Hawkete responded, joining Kagetora in the back...
"Okay! Let's roll!"
Neku exclaimed, leaping into the trailer...
-
Good luck gentlemen. here is a check for your first payment" Dr Tennes said handing Dr. Zaniusu a check for $50, 000. "don't spend it all in one place.." He deadpanned.
-
Zachary got out of the SUV and closed and latched the trailer.
He then got back into the SUV and fasted his seat belt and pulled out of the driveway.
Dr. Zanasiu accepted the check. "Thank you Dr. Tennes. I'm not sure if we'll have time to spend it at all."
"I see we are embarking on our next great adventure." Zachary said.
They were now cruising down the side streets of the development and were heading for the main highway.
-
The group in Zachary's SUV was now on the main highway and heading out of Las Vegas.
Dr. Zanasiu picked a piece of hay off his pants. "Zach, is this yours?"
Zachary gave Dr. Zanasiu a strange look. "Yes, it is mine."
"You eat hay?"
"I'm completely vegan with some advantages; I can eat plant matter that Humans can't digest. And yes, I do eat hay, not my favorite dish but it is my brother's."
"You have a brother?"
Zachary nodded. "Let's not talk for now, I have to focus on driving." He readjusted his sunglasses. "Anybody want the radio on?"
-
Aisha, DR Landon and Alford were now more than halfway to the base. Mozart was now playing, they had listened to Brahms, Handel, and bach..
-
Zachary and his crew were already on the main highway out of Las Vegas.
"There's the Luxor Hotel." Dr. Zanasiu said, looking out the window. "Too bad we won't be doing any gambling."
"We will be." Zachary replied, "Gambling with our lives and the fate of Pelvanida. Radio on or no? I'm fine with any music."
Dr. Zanasiu shrugged "Why not? Try some hard rock."
Zachary nodded and turned on the radio. Blow me Away by Breaking Benjamin came on.
"You know, it would be ironic if Rock Anthem for Saving the World came on." Zachary said.
"Halo fan I see." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
Zachary nodded. "Yep."
------------
"Ahh. Mozart. Kind of a bit of dissonance that we're going to meet to Dr. Zanasiu and stop Dragonstorm. If Dies Irae came on, that would be appropriate." Alford said, looking out the window at the passing scrubland.
-
Or Beethovan?Dr landon said.. "Like his Operas..
-
"I like Beethoven but Wagner is my favorite." Alford replied, scratching his head. "Man, I am so nervous."
--------
"So Werner, Hans. How have you guys been?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
Kenny Loggin's Danger Zone now came on. Zachary sighed. "At least it played now and not while we're entering Pelvanida."
-
"We're doing good werner is now working security at a casino in vegas and i well I am currently un-employed though I did forge an ID a few days ago to get into Pelvanida and I got some info on the security,' hans said.
-
"We'll need that info. What else have you learned at Pelvanida?" Zachary asked.
-
Don't worry , We'll just explain things by sayying. you're a recent transfer from Pelvanida and you're starting your first day tommorow' Aisha said. They'll give you a securiity card, and a short debriefingm, just keep your composure.."
-
"Hang on I've got to get it up,' hans said getting a laptop out.
-
Alford took a breath. "Okay and what am I supposed to do once the rest of the group get in?"
-
You'll be accompanying me.. as a sort of Persional bodyguard' Aisha grinned.. "You follow me wherever I go.. I'll likely be sent to the labs .."
-
"Ahh, that will allow us to get to the bottom of Dragonstorm." Alford said, stroking his chin. "Now, what about the others?"
----------
"Got anything Hans?" Zachary asked. Dr. Online by Zeromancer was now playing. "Ah, geez! I hate this track!"
Dr. Zanasiu switched over to the electronic dance channel. Running Man by Brain Inc. was playing. "Better?"
Zachary nodded. "Yep? Anybody need to take a break?"
-
You mean DR zaniusu and the others? Well, Thats really out of my hands.."Aisha said.
-
"Oh, that could bet ugly. Hmm. Are those are the so called 'Heroes of Pelvanida' I overheard some of the scientists and guards talking about?" Alford asked, draining the rest of his water bottle.
-
Yes" Aisha said. "they helped to Uncover and Delay dragonstorm, but the program was not shut down, and if the reports of missing children are true, its been restarted .."
-
"Yeah I'm bringing it up,' hans said loading the page and giving to to james.
-
Dr. Zanasiu accepted the page and read over it. "Hmm. Looks like they added defensive turrets to the perimeter and upgraded the ones inside the base from .30 caliber to .50 caliber. It looks like the locks were upgraded too and the CO2 fire extinguishing system has been weaponized."
"What do you mean the 'CO2 fire extinguishing system has been weaponized'?" Zachary asked.
"That means that in the event of intruders, the CO2 fire extinguishing system can be used to suffocate them. It appears to be used in areas where gunfire would be unacceptable, like the reactor core and the labs." He then turned to Hawkeye and Kagetora. "Hawkeye, Kagetora, what do you make of this new intelligence?"
Sandstorm by Darude was now playing.
----------
One of the scientists, a thin Russian man, was working inside one of the labs. His supervising scientist, an anthro Doberman was preparing a syringe of the test nanomachines.
"Is the subject ready?" the man asked.
The head scientist nodded. "Yes. Connect the monitoring equipment and inject the nanomachines."
The man picked up the capped syringe and followed the supervisor. He entered another room where an unconscious 4 year old Human was strapped to an operating table.
The man's expression darkened. "Is this some kind of sick joke!? The subject is a child! We're not supposed to do this." He placed the syringe of nanomachines on a tray.
The head scientist grinned. "Yes we are."
"The admin will have a few things to say about this."
"Go on, he won't care." the head scientist replied.
"The public will! And the family of that boy will be very interested to know what happened to their son." The scientist headed for the lab's exit only to find it locked. "Open the door." The door did not open. "I said open the [censored] door!"
Dr. Branston's voice, cold and sneering, came on the intercom. "So sorry, but Pelvanida is under lockdown for security reasons. We can't have our staff walking out of the complex; it's not safe."
"You bastard! I'll expose this travesty of ethics even if it kills me."
Dr. Branston's icy laugh came over the intercom. "Go on, try it."
The head scientist reached inside his labcoat and pulled out a .45 caliber pistol and aimed it at his subordinate. "I dare you to leave." He gently fingered the trigger.
The man rushed past his supervisor and tried to head to the emergency exit. Just as soon as he opened it, the supervisor shot him in the back. He tried to run, but the supervisor chased him down the hallways and shot him to death.
Dr. Branston's voice came over the head scientist's radio. "Is the threat eliminated."
The head scientist placed his pistol back in his labcoat and radioed Dr. Branston. "Yes.
"Good, continue your work on Project R-4901."
The Doberman scientist headed back to his lab.
-
As the Doberman injected the unfortunate child, Aisha reached the outskirts of carson City.. "Only abnpout an hour to the base.." She said. Dr Landon was taking a nap in the back..
-
(Sorry I've been gone for a while. School trip. Did I miss anything important?)
Kagetora shook his head.
"It's at best, a double-edged sword..."
He said quietly.
"If we, or any of our allies has it, it's wonderful. But if someone out to get us has it, then it'll present a masice risk..."
Hawkeye added, looking at the page...
-
"Looks like we're almost there." the Cobalt Soldier said, looking out the window.
Dr. Zanasiu was looking over the paper. "Hmm. It looks like the control room commands all the defensive systems. And I have a feeling that they will be hostile to us since we uncovered Dragonstorm. I don't think we can just walk in."
Zachary nodded. "Looks like we'll have to find some other way in.
Dancing Galaxy by Astral Projection was playing.
----------
Alford yawned as he awoke from his nap. "So, let me get this straight, once we get inside Pelvanida, I'm supposed to be your guard? There is only one problem, I was already inside there as a contractor; they'll be suspicious if they see someone who looks like Alford Byford but claims he's assigned to protect Aisha."
-
Well, you're going to show your contractor pass, and that you've been hired to shadow me.. me being so innocent" Aisha smirked
-
"I've got an old friend of mine that owes me a favor he's a tank driver so I could get him to lend us a tank,' hans said.
-
"Let's not get a tank unless we have absolutely no choice. Besides, we can't fit a tank inside the complex." the Cobalt Soldier replied.
-
"Ah, we're approaching Carson City Camp!" the Cobalt Soldier said. He was looking at a large road sign that read, "Carson City Camp - 35 miles."
Zachary nodded and turned down the road. He switched the radio back to the hard rock station
At the same time the radio blared. "This is 101.3 LVHR, Las Vegas's hard rock station. Right now we have a special piece from the famous video game Halo. Now prepare yourselves for, Rock Anthem for Saving the World."
Zachary sighed. "Wow. That can't be a coincidence."
--------------
Alford looked out the window and saw a sign that read, Carson City Camp 50 miles. "We're almost there."
Mars, the Bringer of War was playing.
Alford chuckled. "How appropriate. Gustav Holst's Mars, the Bringer of War is playing. And we're going to be bringing a war to Pelvanida."
-
Coinicidence right. DR langston grinmned from the back seat. He had eaten most of the goodies in the cooler, and had takjen a nap for a good portion of the trip..
-
Neku sat up, grinning faintly.
"So, looks like it's just about time we started kicking butt again, huh?"
He said, flicking his arm and drawing the familiar prototype energy sword he had taken from Pelendavia. He had, of course modified it with some help from Hawkeye, allowing the blade to cut with much greater ease, and to draw it's power from his arm, giving it nearly-unlimited energy supplies. He smiled, feeling the comforting weight once again...
Cale uncloaked inside the back of the truck, smiling at the group.
"Looks that way, Neku. You two ready?"
He asked Slash and Agito, both of whom nodded.
"Always, Cale. It's been too long since we've seen action."
Slash said, grinning as best he could on each half of his face...
Agito flipped lightly in place.
"He's right...Let's...Oh, I can't hardly wait..."
He chuckled...
Kagetora cracked his neck slightly.
"Soon...We'll all return to the place it began..."
He said quietly, looking out the window.
Hawkeye looked at Kagetora.
"And this time...We're going to put an end to it, too."
He said, his cybernetic eye flashing red...
-
"It'll be an honor to fight side by side with all of you again,' hans said.
-
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "If I knew we were heading back, I wouldn't have turned in my Remington 870."
Zachary chuckled. "Look under the seats and the center console."
Dr. Zanasiu did just that. After a few moments he sat back up, beaming. "My shotgun!"
"Yep. I got it as a gift. I just didn't have time to give it to you."
Zachary looked at the approaching borders of Carson City Camp. "Well, in a few minutes we're going to be fighting the forces of evil. And what better song to do it to than Rock Anthem for Saving the World?"
Dr. Zanasiu looked at Dr. Tennes. "Dr. Tennes, we will be entering a very hostile area soon. This is your last chance to back out if you so desire. Also, can you use a weapon?"
---------------
Alford sighed as the borders of Carson City Camp came into view. "Aisha, do you have a gun or anything I can use as a weapon? If we're entering some place where they don't want us it would be prudent to have a means of defending oneself."
-
"I know the commander at carson' Dr Tennes replied. 'We'll have no problems there..They're concerned about what is happening at Pelvanida too.. And yes I know how to use a Weapon Gentlemen I was in the Military for more than 20 years"
_
We'll be able to get weapons at the base' Aisha said..
-
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "Good, you'll need it."
"Guys, we are approaching Carson City Camp." the Cobalt Soldier said.
The SUV drove up to the main gate of Carson City Camp and stopped.
A Cobalt soldier approached Zachary. "Sir, you cannot enter this base without permission from Gen. Moby. Please turn around and exit."
"I am Dr. James Zanasiu and I am currently here with my companions to discuss the Dragonstorm issue at Pelvanida." Dr. Zanasiu said, turning the radio off.
The Cobalt soldier outside frowned. "Hmm. Let me contact Gen. Moby." He went into the guard house and radioed Gen. Moby.
-
Your job Is to protect my daughter' Tennes said, climbing out and showing the soldier his badge of rank. The soldier quickly saluted him, and tennes walked into the base./..
-
The guard came out of his shack. "Proceed. Gen. Moby requests the presence of all of you, including the experiments who fought alongside you."
"Thank you sir." Zachary said. He started up the engine and drove into the base.
After a short drive, they arrived at the designated parking lot where a group of 6 guards greeted them.
Zachary parked the SUV and the trailer. "Guys! We're here!"
He went to the trailer and opened it. "Okay, time to get out and start our next mission!"
Dr. Zanasiu got out of the SUV. "Ah, it's nice to be able to stretch after a long drive."
------------------
At another section of Carson City Camp. A Doberman guard came out of his post with his rifle in hand as Alford and Aisha's car came into view..
"Halt! This is a US military base! You may not proceed further! Please turn around and exit!" he shouted.
-
"My father is expecting us here. he is Admiral Tennes" aisha explained..
-
"Identification please." the guard said. He radioed Gen. Moby. "General Moby, this is Post Delta. I have a woman who claims that Admiral Tennes is her father and that he is expecting her."
-
That is my daughter Aisha, and yes UI'm expecting her" Admiral Tennes replied..
-
Gen. Moby radioed back to the guard. "Post Delta, Admiral Tennes and his daughter are expected at the base. Verify her identity and grant her entry. Moby out."
The guard then ended the transmission and turned to Aisha. "Ma'am, I need to see some identification."
-
Aisha gave him her drivers license. 'these two are with me.. so just let them in.." She said
_ Dr Landon" Dr Landon said showing him his credentials.
-
The guard waved Dr. Landon and Aisha through but stopped Alford.
"Where are you going sir? This is a military base and off limits to the public." the guard said.
Alford showed him his contractor ID. "I was assigned to retrieve some materials from Carson City Camp."
"I don't remember being informed of this but I'll grant you entry. You are to stay with Ms. Tennes and Dr. Landon."
The guard then waved Alford through.
"Okay now what?" Alford asked.
----------------
"Neku, Agito, Kagetora, Slash, Cale, Hawkeye, Werner, Hans are you all coming or what?" Zachary asked.
The guards were growing somewhat impatient.
-
"Huh? Oh, sorry. Must've dozed off."
Neku said, hopping out of the trailer with Cale, Slash, and Agito...
"Coming, Coming..."
Kagetora said, stepping out of the truck, wearing his familiar Ninja attire. Hawkeye followed close behind, his hair swept back so that his mechanical features could be seen...
-
"Ah Lt. Hawkeye, nice to see you!" a Cassowary guard said, saluting him.
"We're ready to head to Gen. Moby." a Human guard added.
---------
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu followed the guards to Gen. Moby's headquarters.
"Greetings, Dr. Zanasiu, Mr. Johnson, Lt. Hawkeye, Kagetora, Cale, Neku, Agito, Slash." Gen. Moby said addressing them each in turn. Ge. Moby was a heavyset Bulldog with a dour face.
"Greetings General." Dr. Zanasiu said. "About our mission..."
"Dr. We need to wait until Werner, Hans and the passengers with Ms. Tennes arrive." Gen. Moby replied, cutting Dr. Zanasiu off.
-------------------
"I had to admit that lie was rather hard to come up with." Alford whispered to Aisha.
-
Mitigatinf circumstances will favor you if we pull this off. Saving world gets you MAJOR cred.." Aisha replied. "Any job you want, you'll get.. even mansaging a WNBA team" Aisga grinned.
-
Alfred grinned. "Well, now that you put it that way... Well, in any case, the adoration of the public and the satisfaction we get out of saving Pelvanida, hell possibly even the entire US is worth the enormous danger."
(OOC - Man, I forgot that Alfred was the Bison's original name!)
-
Werner and hans walked into the generals office "Sorry we're late,' hans said.
-
"That's all right." General Moby replied. "Please take a seat. We'll give 30 minutes for the rest of the group to arrive, then we'll start the briefing."
--------------
Alfred looked at Aisha. "Though I may be a contractor, I will do everything in my power to assist you and Dr. Zanasiu."
-
thank you, I know you'll help us in anyway you can..' Aisha replied making her way towards the office of geen. Moby.
-
Alfred knocked on the door of Gen. Moby.
After a few minutes, a guard opened the door.
"The General is busy." The door was then closed in Alfred's face.
He then turned to Aisha. "Aisha, can you try and get through to this guard?"
-
Aisha knocked on the door. "Hello" aisha said, showing her Id.' I'm Aisha Tennes, the Generakl is expecting me.." the guard looked at Alfred. "He's with me..'Very well, come in" the guard grumbled, opening the door and holding it open for them to enter.
-
Gen. Moby turned around at the door opening. He spotted Aisha and Dr. Landon. "Ah, you must be Ms. Tennes, please take a seat."
-
Thank you General' Aisha said. this is Dr Landon and Alfred" She motioned to her companions. She took a seat near the front, in all there were about 30 seats in all. "So what the situation? she asked.
-
Gen. Moby shook hands with Alfred and Dr. Landon. "Nice to meet you sirs. Please take a seat."
"Nice to meet you General." Alfred replied. He then took a seat near Aisha.
Gen. Moby then cleared his throat. "Well, Ms. Tennes as you know you are sitting here with the group who thwarted the terrorist assault on Pelvanida. Well, during that assault, they had stumbled upon 'Dragonstorm'. Though details of this project are few and far between, what has been gleaned is exceptionally troubling. In fact most of this information we gathered is thanks to Dr. Zanasiu."
A guard produced an enormous stack of papers from large cardboard box. The papers were then placed on Gen. Moby's desk.
Gen. Moby then picked up a ream of paper labeled "Dragonstorm Guide: K-462 (Instructions for Rapid Abduction)."
"Obviously, Pelvanida has zero tolerance for this kind of behavior." Gen. Moby handed the ream to Aisha. He then opened a small binder to reveal a very recent newspaper clipping. "This newspaper clipping is very recent and covers a rash of kidnappings, all following the same pattern, from around the Las Vegas area. Take a look at both of the articles."
"So what's our mission?" Zachary asked.
"Ah, Mr. Johnson. Your mission is simple but extremely dangerous: stop Dragonstorm at any costs. I don't care what you have to do to stop it; if the easiest way is to blow up the whole complex, do it." Gen. Moby replied.
"Wait, you're the one in command of all the military hardware and Pelvanida is government contracted, so why can't you simply order them to stop or simply destroy it with your troops?" Alfred asked.
Gen. Moby sighed. "The Pelvanida admin either doesn't know or doesn't give two [censored]s about the ethical violations. I can't send my troops to destroy the base either. That's just asking for trouble. The only option is to send the previous group who thwarted the attack at Pelvanida, their combination of facility layout and skills tested in actual combat is unique and vital to this operation."
Gen. Moby then scanned over everyone in the room. "Okay, who wishes to volunteer for this undertaking?"
"I do." Dr. Zanasiu said, standing up.
Alfred trembled but swallowed deeply. "I will offer any assistance needed." he declared, standing as he spoke.
Zachary stood as well. "We will stop this disgrace to scientists everywhere."
-
I'm in"' aisha said. "As am I' Dr andon said
_
Good luck Aishas' Admiral Tennes said, looking at his daighter. "I'm going to Washington to inform the president and joint Chiefs, and have them. shut down Pelvanida base, permanently. it won't be easy..By if suceed in stopping Dragonstorm, it would give us enough momentum to see it done..
-
General Moby looked around the room. "Any more volunteers? This is your last chance to back out."
-
"so what'ss the mission, exactly? How are we supposed to get on base without atracting a lot of attention. Alfred, Dr Landon and I barely got out of there..'
-
"We'll try sending you over as guards." Gen. Moby said. He then radioed Pelvanida only to get nothing but static in response.
He then turned to the rest of the group. "Guys, the situation has gotten worse. I can't get through to Pelvanida."
"That means... Oh hell no!" Alfred said.
Gen. Moby nodded. "Unfortunately, deception isn't an option. We'll have to sneak in through the emergency exit."
-
Great" aisha said.. "So whats our goal in this, exactly.. or is there one?" She sank in a seat..
-
"I'm sorry Ms. Tennes but I got off track. The goal is to stop Dragonstorm at any cost." Gen. Moby said.
-
So why don't you drop a bunker buster oon the base and flatten It?" Aisha said..
-
"There's nothing wrong with that...except Pelvanida is in American borders!" Gen. Moby said. He took a deep breath. "The public is not aware of the existence of Dragonstorm. If we bomb Pelvanida, we're going to be dealing with a lot of angry people, especially the families of those who died. We'll also have a lot of international fallout to deal with."
-
We'd have explain our reasoning.. we had good reason to suspect that a secret illegal testing program was based there, that was using human children as experiments.." aisha replied..
-
Gen. Moby sighed. "It's not that easy. Even if we were justified and we are, people still will have problems accepting it. Besides, the president seems to be either ignorant or even part of the plot."
-
If he is involved, then he's obviously not the change I voted for..'Aisha said. "People have already died because iof this program, General. .."
-
Gen. Moby sighed. "Okay, let's do it." He then radioed another military base. "Telson Air Force Base, this is Gen. Moby, Pelvanida Base has gone rogue. Request air strike at Pelvanida."
"General Moby, this is Commander Isien, request has been denied. Isien out."
Gen. Moby cut the transmission. "Unfortunately, I just gut rebuffed from Telson AFB. Looks like we're on our own."
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Well, I guess so."
Alfred too sighed. "I was hoping not to get involved but now I seems I must."
-
Well I think the base is bunker buster proof anyway.. so that ideas out.. looks like we;ll have to do this the hard way.."Aisha said..
-
"I'm with you." Alfred said.
"Okay, Hans, Werner, Hawkeye, Neku, Agito, Slash, Zachary, everyone ready?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Good luck." Gen. Moby said, saluting them.
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary saluted.
-
Good Luck" Admiral Tennes said, saluting them as well.. "Bring back my daufghter in one piece.."
-
"Yeah we're ready,' Hans and werner said.
-
General Moby nodded. "The armory is nearby. Only take small arms and some explosives."
-
"Alright I'll only take a three M-4 Assault rifles 3 H&K MP5 Sub Machine Guns and 4 Desert Eagles,' hans said.
-
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "I think I'll go with that shotgun Zach gave me."
Alfred sighed again. "As a former trapshooting enthusiast and a contractor. I'll take a shotgun."
General Moby's jaw dropped. "You're a contractor!? How'd you get in here?"
"I was, shall I say, 'escorted' by Ms. Tennes." Alfred replied.
-
"I'll take a gun.. whats available?' Aisha asked..
-
"Well, you'll have to see the armory for yourself." General Moby replied.
-
Aisha noddedIf you could l\kindly lead me there, I'll take a look. I've had training with firearms, of course" She added with a grin..
-
"We'll take you there." One of the guard said.
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary and Alford got up and ready to move out.
-
"You ready son,' Hans asked werner. "Yeah I'm ready to dad,' werner said.
-
Thank you' Aisha nodde as Dr landon got up and started following them..
-
The guard left the room with the group following.
After a few minutes, he arrived at a large warehouse like building. He showed the two armed guards outside the building his ID and they let him in.
"Okay, take any small arms, ammunition, grenades and armor you need. When you are done speak to me." the guard said.
-
Dr Landon stepped forward and grabbed a .45 caliber rifle.. "my father had a colt .45" he said.. "he was a great shot with it too..
-
Alfred grabbed a 12 gauge shotgun.
Dr. Zanasiu grabbed some shotgun shells and looked at Alfred strangely. "Aren't you a contractor?"
Alfred shrugged. "I am a trapshooting enthusiast; I've been trapshooting since I was 14."
"This isn't a shooting competition."
Zachary ignored the exchange between the two and grabbed an M-16 rifle.
-
Aisha grabbed a .38 caliber rifle"these guys won't know what hit them " She said stoically.. "how long will take it to get back to Pelvanida?"
-
"We cannot enter through the main entrance." Dr. Zanasiu said. "There is an emergency exit but it is in a very remote area. It will take us several hours to get there and we may need to force the door open."
"I can get a powered concrete saw with a diamond blade from my truck. It is outside Pelvanida. That will get us through the door no problem." Alfred replied, taking some shotgun shells.
-
"Well that's good,' hans said.
-
Allright, we'll sneak in through the back door then" Aisha replied, stocking up on ammo..after we get in, then what?'
-
"We try and find Dragonstorm labs, possibly recruit some other scientists or experiments to help us and we destroy all traces of Dragonstorm." Zachary said, slinging a bandioler over his shoulder.
-
Sounds simple enough.." Dr Landon said.. "But its not going to be simple.. is it?"
-
"Since Pelvanida dropped off the map. Something's up, something they don't want us to find out. And during the terrorist attack on Pelvanida, we stumbled upon Dragonstorm scientists and we were nearly killed by them. Dr. Shelton was severely beaten by one of the Dragonstorm scientists we captured and Guard Ivers was beaten by a certain Shire horse named Keegan O'Neill." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"James was taken hostage and nearly killed by some of these scientists. We should also consider the possibility that guards are in on it as well." Zachary added.
-
those guys mean buiness then, if they show no restraint about beating and killing thier prisoners.,..; Aisha said.."These are very dangerous people we are dealing with..they must be stopped.
-
"This kind of reminds me of the government of Germany 60 years ago,' hans said.
-
Or Russia 60 years ago.. that works too" Aisha replied, finishing arming herself..
-
"Yeah,' hans said in agreement.
-
so when do we start.. We may need to stop overnight in the desert, ot if we get inside, we;ll crash in a side room' Aisha said.
-
"I'd suggest we stop overnight in the desert. I need to get my tools. And we can plan." Alfred said.
"Alfred's construction tools can be used to force our way into the labs and even serve as weapons if we need them to." Zachary said. "Desert stopover, then?"
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred nodded.
"Also, I suggest that we forgo heavy armor as blending in with the staff would be better that outright invading. Chances are they'll think we're fellow workers." Alfred said. "Hans, you can hold my shotgun until we need it. I'll try and resume my contractor disguise."
-
Fine desert stopover it is.. the desert isn't that bad tempoerature-wise at night.."Aisha said "although its brutal during the day.."
-
"Alright,' hans said putting the shotgun in a bag along with the other weapons
-
"Good luck." General Moby said, saluting the group.
"Thank you." Dr. Zanasiu replied, returning the salute.
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary headed back to the SUV. Alfred waited for Aisha to lead him to their car.
-
"Thank you general,' hans said returning the salute.
-
Aisha copened the door and allowed Dr Landon to climb into the back..
_ She them climbed in. " alright guys, buckle in, its going to be a long drive where we're going.."
-
Alfred climbed into the backseat with Dr. Landon. "I'll drive my own truck once we stop by the entrance."
------------
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu went into the SUV and drove off.
Zachary turned on the radio. Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins was playing.
Dr. Zanasiu chuckled. "That's horrible."
-
Very well, whatever allows you to get in without attracting noticve' Alicia bnodded. " Good luck with it.. There are some insane people on that base, doing God-knows- what to little kids..
-
Alfred took a nap in the front seat.
----------------
"Hans, do you think this was a good idea, try to disguise ourselves as staff?" Zachary said.
-
"It seems like a good idea but I was thinking about going in through the areas not covered by the security camreas and cutting the power long enough for us to get in and disguise ourselves like base personal,' hans said.
-
"Also works but remember that the fusion reactor is in the basement and protected quite well by autoturrets and cameras. Also, few areas are not covered by cameras." Zachary said.
-
Uyeah this isn;'t like the Ocean's 11 movies.' Aisha said..
-
"I realise that but there are others ways to get into highly secure places,' hans said.
-
Please tell me.. I'm not well versed in bypassing highly sensitive security
-
"well there's going through the sewers, through the air vents or posing as higher ups back from leave,' hans said.
-
Dr. Zanasiu shrugged. "I'm fairly certain that Pelvanida air vents are deliberately sized too small to allow a Human sized being through. Posing as higher ups might work for some of us but for others, no. And Pelvanida has its own waste water processing system."
"It looks like going through the emergency exit is our best choice." Zachary said.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Yep."
-
'going through the back door seenms like our only plan then "Aisha shrugged Alright, lets do it.."
-
"Yes it does seem like the only way,' hans said.
-
Alfred woke up. "Dr. Landon, how much further to Pelvanida?"
-
:Go back to sleep" We haven't goione very far' Landon replied.. "I'll wake you whhen we get there.."
-
Alfred shrugged and fell back asleep.
---------------------------------
Inside Pelvanida, the guards had just finished demolishing the radio tower.
Dr. Branston looked through the monitors and grinned. "Good."
"Let me out of here!" Dr. Bailey shouted.
"Hmm. How about no." Dr. Branston replied.
Just then a Pelvanida guard, an anthro Cape Buffalo, entered the control room. "Dr. Branston! I have found terrible news: Alfred Byford, Dr. Landon, Hans Donitz and Dr. Tennes have been gone for several hours. Mr. Byford's pickup truck is still outside the base with its tools."
"I know." Dr. Branston replied. "The security cams showed Dr. Tennes grabbing Mr. Byford and Dr. Landon and forcibly taking them from the installation. Sadly, a computer error rendered me unable to pinpoint the location and send a team to respond. As for Donitz, it is possible that Dr. Tennes kidnapped or even killed him as well."
"Wait, are you seriously thinking that Dr. Tennes might have kidnapped or killed one of our highly trained security guards?" the guard asked.
Dr. Branston nodded. "Do not ever underestimate your foe. That is how Dr. James Zanasiu, Zachary Johnson, Sharon Varma, Professor Josephine Smithson and Dr. Rudyard Shelton with a handful of the surviving experiments and guards were able to stop one of the largest terrorist assaults in US history."
"Okay thanks for the history lesson, but what the hell do I do if I see them?" the guard replied. He had his arms crossed and he was frowning slightly.
"Arrest or kill Dr. Tennes and rescue Dr. Landon and Mr. Byford. Dr. Landon is a vital part of our research team. Mr. Byford is needed to help clean up and repair the complex; besides, we can't let an innocent bystander suffer at the hands of their captor." Dr. Branston replied.
The guard nodded, saluted and left the control room.
-
A scientist walked up to Dr. Branston "sir I've been doing some research and it seem that Hans Donitz was one of the terrorists that attacked this facility and he switched sides since he was working for the German government,' the scientist said.
-
"What! This has to be a mistake!" Dr. Branston exclaimed. "Dontiz is one of our best guards!" He then sighed. "This could be a hell of an international incident." He then turned to the scientist. "You are not to breathe a word of this finding to anyone else. Understood?"
-
(OOC: Sorry I'm late. Took me a while to get my chars ready. My three original chars from the other RP remains unchanged, but I have a few extras to add. Here they are:
Name: Aiko
Age: 24
Gender: Male
Species: Anthromorphic Akita
Faction: Soldiers
Specialties: Communications, Intelligence, Hacking
Personality: Optimistic, encouranging
Name: Feral Jones
Age: 38
Gender: Male
Species: Anthromorphic Panther
Faction: Soldiers
Specialties: Intelligence, Small Arms, Hand-to-Hand Combat
Personality: Stern, wry sense of humor, blunt
Name: Ariol
Age: Unknown (mid 20s - 30s)
Gender: Male
Species: Human
Faction: Dragonstorm?
Specialties: Assassination, Espionage, Explosives
Personality: Cold, ruthless
Name: X-278
Age: 2 (maturity of 18 years)
Gender: Male
Species: Anthromorphic Fennec Fox
Faction: Experiments
Specialties: Kinetic energy discharge (creates explosives out of nothing)
Personality: Isolated, very fearful of everyone
Name: Deathwind
Age: 6 (maturity unknown)
Gender: Male
Species: Anthromorphic Wasp
Faction: Dragonstorm
Specialties: High speed (flying), Strength (lifts up to 1 ton), Sonic boom (use of wings), poison sting
Personality: Cruel, merciless
Quite a cast of chars... I'll try to jump in at the right time.)
-
"It looks like we're here,' hans said pulling up to the gate.
-
We have to go around, off road..' Aisha said.. "We can't let ourselves be seen.. and I don't think they're gong to greet me all that warmly. I'll be ready to open fire on anypne who tries to detain me.."
-
"I need to get my truck." Alfred said.
"Sure thing." Zachary replied. He stopped the SUV and Alfred got out and walked to the entrance.
"Sir. This is a US military base, you cannot proceed further." the entrance guard, a wiry Latino man stated. Two other guards appeared from the shack.
Alfred showed his contractor pass. "I am Alfred Byford. My truck is parked inside and I need to retrieve it."
"Ah, Mr. Byford. Please come with us." the Latino guard said.
Alfred looked at the guard. "Pardon?"
"Please come with us." The Latino guard was getting irritated.
"Please explain what is going on!" Alfred demanded.
"Come with us or we will forcibly take you." The Latino guard pulled out a pair of disposable plastic handcuffs.
"I will come once you explain. I am here to retrieve my truck."
One of the other guards, an anthro Timber Wolf looked at the SUV that Alfred came out of with a pair of binoculars. "Hey! I see Dr. Tennes in that SUV Alfred came out of!"
The Latino guard looked at Alfred. "So you're not a kidnapping victim at all! You're part of the plot! You are under arrest!" He grabbed Alfred's left arm and tried to handcuff him.
Alfred grinned. "I was shall I say, ignorant of what was going on in Pelvanida but know that I know. Does the word 'Dragonstorm' mean anything?" He pulled his left arm free of the guard's grasp and he turned around and faced the guard.
"Dragonstorm!? You've been spying on us for Carson City Camp!? You'll pay!"
The guard flicked out his retractable baton and went after Alfred.
Alfred laughed. "Nope. I only found out after Dr. Tennes showed me."
"I knew it! You're working with Dr. Tennes!" the Latino shouted.
"I gladly am!" Alfred replied, staring down the enraged man. As the guard drew his arm back, Alfred charged in with startling speed and slammed his body, over 420 pounds of muscle, into the guard, sending him sprawling and causing him to drop the baton. Alfred picked up the baton and bent it in half.
"Now. May I get my truck?" He asked. He tossed the broken baton on the ground.
The Latino guard stood up clutching his ribs. "I'm taking you into custody: dead or alive!" the guard tried to draw his pistol but the pain of Alfred's powerful tackle slowed him down.
The guard almost had his pistol out when Alfred's massive fist crashed into the top of the guard's head in a brutal hammerfist. The impact sounded like wrecking ball battering a concrete wall.
The guard's eyes rolled back in his head and he immediately collapsed to the ground.
The other two guards rushed from the guard house with their pistols drawn.
"Get on the ground!" The Timber Wolf shouted.
Alfred obeyed.
-------------------
Zachary spotted the two guards handcuffing Alfred. "Okay guys! We've got two rogue Pelvanida guards. Let's rock and roll!"
"Not so fast. Perhaps they did have a legitimate reason to take Alfred into custody. Did you see how hard he hit that guard? Can anyone say major skull fracture? I wouldn't be surprised if he's dead." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Zachary shook his head. "Alfred left the door open. My hearing is more sensitive than a Human's sense of hearing. The guard clearly mentioned Dragonstorm."
"Okay then. Let's rock and roll!" Dr. Zanasiu said, grabbing the shotgun from between the driver and passenger seats. He quickly loaded the shotgun and waited for Hans, Werner and Aisha.
-
Aisha whipped out her gun.and fired off a shot. It hit on of the guards cuffing Alford in the side, knocking him backwards. "Uncuff Alford, or the next bullet is going in your head! We're shutting down Dragonstorm permanently, if it requires a high body count, well, it'll be worth it.. " Aisdha said, her tracer now locked onto the other guards forehead. "Take him out" She said to the others..
-
Dr. Zanasiu took cover behind the open door of the SUV with his shotgun at the ready. "Let Alfred go! Dragonstorm is a abomination that must be stopped and he is helping us!"
Zachary grabbed his rifle from under the seat, he too aimed at the other guard.
Alfred got to his feet and looked at the wounded Timber Wolf guard. "Lucky they decided to nick you with their shots." He picked the guard up with one hand. "Now give me your keys and weapons or I break you." He showed the Timber Wolf the body of the Latino guard.
The Timber Wolf bit Alfred in the hand. "Gah!" Alfred threw the Wolf to the ground. The Wolf tried to draw his pistol. "Shoot him!" Alfred shouted.
Alfred walked away, looking at the bitten hand. It was bleeding but it wasn't too serious.
Dr. Zanasiu fired at the Timber Wolf guard, striking him in the chest and downing him. Another shot to the chest killed him.
The last guard was trying to radio for backup. Zachary fired a short burst at the guard's feet. "Give us the radio or die!"
The final guard drew his pistol and aimed it squarely at Dr. Zanasiu.
-
Aisha shot the radio out of the guard hand, it fell to the ground and shattered into pieces.. "The next shot is going in your chest" Aisha snarled moving up towards the enterance..
-
Dr. Branston was watching the shootout unfold on the security cameras outside the front entrance. He quickly radioed some extra squadrons.
He then radioed the front guards. "2 extra squads are coming your way."
-------------------
The radio's speaker blared out Dr. Branston's message. The guard grinned. "Fine kill me. You're not getting inside. Reinforcements are coming."
Dr. Zanasiu looked at Aisha. "If reinforcements come, we cannot enter this way."
Alfred went past the barrier and headed into his truck. It was a large black 1 ton pickup truck with dual rear wheels and a heavy brush guard.
He opened the door and to his horror found a Pelvanida mechanic trying to start the truck.
"Get out of my truck!" Alfred shouted. When the mechanic ignored him, Alfred grabbed the mechanic and threw him out of the cab. He started the truck up and drove it through the gate of the entrance.
-
"We're getting in" Aisha replied. "Follow Alford.. and do as you please with the guard. If he surrenders.. fine.. if not.. do what you have to do" Aisha was no weakling, she was perfectly willing to use brute force to defeat her foes..
-
Hans grabbed a MG-34 from the back seat of his car and handed a M-4 two relvolvers and a KAR 98 to werner. "Did you want a tommy gun too,' he asked. "Yeah I'll take two of the 1928 models,' werner replied. He leaned out of the car to the others I've got more weapons in the back seat and the trunk if you want any,' hans said getting out of the car with a M-16 a AK47 a MG-34 six semi auto pistols and two revolvers on him as well as being drapped with various ammo clips for drapped in MG ammo and a box of ammo for the revolvers.
-
"Hans, forget about the massive armory we stashed in the trunk! We need to get to the emergency exit before the squads get here!" Zachary shouted.
A heavy mechanical whirring filled the air.
"Oh no! Guys! We need to move!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. As he spoke, a deadly GAU-19/A, rose from what seemed to be an oil barrel. Several more were in the process of deploying.
Zachary nodded and slammed the accelerator as hard as possible. Alfred also drove off in a cloud of dust.
The gatling guns began firing at the SUV they soon lost track of it in the cloud of dust kicked up by the two fleeing vehicles.
-
Aisha had climbed in the car just before it had driven off.. "Great.. that attack didn't go so well.. Oh welll. we're going to have to get in another way.."
-
"Enter through the emergency exit." Zachary said. He stuck his arm out the window and waved for Alfred to follow them.
"Hans, I'd give Alfred his shotgun back when we have time." Dr. Zanasiu said. "Our disguises aren't going to work any more."
-
Meanwhile, in an undisclosed location int Utah, a briefing is being conducted. Three of those attending are familiar. In fact, the three were survivors from the initial terrorist attack on the base: Victor "Vic" Summers, Professor Josephine "Dr Joe" Smithson, and Snow. During the battle, the trio were separated from the others when they fell upon the main force of the terrorists. With no way of regrouping with their team, they had to commondere a chopper and escape with their lives. Now they're going back...
Vic had been in hiding since they got word of some of the others surviving but permamently barred from the facility. But as he was found out by the special forces commity, he had to call Dr Joe and Snow in, for they were promised leniency for allegedly going "AWOL from a high security matter." Vic was to go, as he was trained to know the complete layout of the complex, even though there were possibilities of drastic changes in security. His personal agenda haunted him as he knew he left behind his teammates in dire trouble, and he plans not to repeat it...
Dr. Joe and Snow lived in Dr. Joe's home apartment after their escape. Dr. Joe was helping Snow live a more natural life in the outside world, and Snow was getting aquainted. As Snow now sits in the briefing room, she's not the normal person she used to be. Now sporting a custom black jacket w/ light blue flames, and a necklace of prayer beads which helps her to be more confident with her powers. Dr. Joe was next to go, as she is the only one capable of retrieving important experiment data that may have survived when most of the scientists were killed in the onslaught. Her personal thoughts reveal to her of some of the experiments that may have survived, and she'll hope to rescue them, too. Snow was promised legal citizenship if she comes to, but her mind was on the one she left behind...
Two new faces were also on this mission. Aiko, a technalogical whiz and communications expert, was needed to keep contact with the outside world and to put the odds of the facility control in their favor. And Feral Jones, team commander and seasoned veteran of many covert operation missions.
They prepare to make their plans of infiltrating the base, do their own individual part of the operation, and overall take down the Dragonstorm project. Soon, they will be moving out...
-
For several hours, the group drove through Nevada desert.
"I wonder if Dr. Joe, Snow and Vic are okay?" Dr. Zanasiu said.
"They didn't join us in the final battle there and when we tried to radio them, we got no response. We couldn't find them after the battle..." Zachary then swallowed.
"You're saying they died?"
Zachary nodded.
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Well, at least it was for a noble cause. We will never forget them."
-
"Yes I know the pain of loosing a comrade is great but the ones that are left will always lift your spirits again,' hans said.
-
"Agreed." Zachary said. "For now, let's do Vic, Dr. Joe and Snow proud by stopping Dragonstorm."
Dr. Zanasiu said nothing but stared out into the dusk.
-
With the briefing over, the group geared up for the move. Besides her armor, Dr Joe holstered a Desert Eagle handgun and strapped a backpack on, containing what she needs to gather information. Aiko prepped himself with two bags of computer gear, the same handgun, and a Calico M-960A submachine gun. Vic was the same, but with a full advanced medical bag for war. Feral armed himself with the same two weapons, plus a Heckler & Koch G11 rifle, and a bag full of "surprises." Snow simply strapped body armor and pulled her jacket over it.
Once done, the squad moved out into the darkness, and towards a Black Hawk helicopter revving up their propellers. Waiting for them in the chopper was the pilot, a dingo, the co-pilot, a human, and two armadillo side gunners each with Dillon Aero miniguns. As everyone jumped inside the chopper lifted from the ground and moved forward to their objective. Three other helicopters lifted off nearby and followed suit. Two of these were unmanned Fire Scouts, the other another Black Hawk with forward rockets and guns, to give a much-needed diversion while the heroes infiltrated the base. High above them, another unmanned aerial vehicle was keeping tabs on their advance.
The helicopters buzzed by in view of the heroes on the ground...
-
Zachary heard the throbbing of the helicopter rotors.
"Damn it! Pelvanida sent helos after us!" he shouted.
Dr. Zanasiu looked out the window. "Nope, they're going to Pelvanida. Can anyone say distraction?"
Zachary grinned. "Oh yeah!" He turned the SUV around right in the middle of the highway and sped towards Pelvanida.
Alfred did the same to his truck following the SUV.
--------------------
Dr. Branston was looking at the radar system. "Hey, who invited those helos?"
"No one." an Opossum guard replied.
Dr. Branston quickly tapped a few keys and had the GAU-19/A gatling guns prepare to target the incoming helos. "Well, those party crashers are going to get a nasty surprise."
Suddenly the GAU-19/A gatling guns roared to life as the helicopters passed within range.
-
The pilot turned his head slightly to Feral. "Enemy guns are homing in on us, sir!"
"You know what to do..." was Feral's reply.
The two Fire Scouts immediately gained speed and took the lead, followed by the second Black Hawk. The UVTOLs homed in on several of the gattling guns and fired their own rockets on them, incinerating them in flames. The Scouts then swooped low just above the ground as they weaved between the base's defenses and let loose their chain guns on anything and anyone in their path. The second Black Hawk began circling near the towers, the gunners raining cover fire and an on-board sniper picking off the tower guards.
As it happened, the main Black Hawk moved in on their target building, hovering just inches above the roof. The quartet leaped out and scrambled towards the nearest vent, ripped it open and dove inside, being careful to close the grate back up.
One Scout was unlucky to take gattling rounds in the tail, and slammed into a cargo truck near Dr Branston, exploding in a massive fire ball...
-
(OOC - Dr. Branston is inside the base.)
Zachary grinned and gunned the engine. The SUV's speedometer flew past 90 mph as he closed in on the gate.
Several Pelvanida guards with Stinger missile launchers had to leap out of the way as the SUV barreled past. Zachary slammed the SUV's brakes, jolting everyone to a stop.
"Go, go, go!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. He leapt out of the truck, grabbed his shotgun and and ran into the entrance. Zachary followed him.
Alfred's truck came crashing through the entrance a few minutes later. A small group of Stinger armed guards targeted one of the Black Hawks. Alfred swerved his truck into the group of guards, knocking them down. He then gunned the engine and dragged a few of those guards to their deaths. He slowed the truck down to 10 mph, leapt from the still moving vehicle and bolted towards the entrance.
Alfred ran into a guard somewhat deeper into the entrance. The guard initially took him to be a construction worker and let him pass.
Alfred then met Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary inside a large utility closet.
"Man, that intro we did...it was... like a [censored] action flick!" Zachary panted.
"You're telling me! I leapt out of a moving vehicle!" Alfred panted.
"Quiet. We're inside." Dr. Zanasiu whispered.
-
"Where's Hans, Werner, Aisha and Dr. Landon?" Dr. Zanasiu whispered.
Zachary put his fingers to his lips.
-
We're right here' Aisha said. " She had shot a guard in the head who had fired at her. Dr Landon came up behind her. his coat was singed. "Quite an enterance genlemen.. you do this often?" he saisd with a touch of mirth
-
(OOC: Oops. Sorry.)
The onslaught continued outside as the remaining umanned chopper gunned down a band of armed guards just as they ran out to halt the attack. But two defense guns finally hit their mark and the Fire Scout exploded in burning mass of wreckage.
The support chopper circled around too late as an anti-aircraft rocket smashed into the tail of the Black Hawk, causing the vehicle to spin violently away from the complex. The pilot somehow managed to maneuver the craft enough to land somewhat softly outside the perimeter, but most of the crew were badly injured from the crash. The main chopper sped from the drop zone before any of the control towers could spot them and hovered near the fallen chopper. The crew rushed as fast as they could into the Black Hawk, and the gunship sped away from the reinforcements...
----------
The quartet slid their way through the vents until they found themselves just above a closet to one of the regular laboratories. They checked for cameras and recording devices before dropping down into the dark room. Feral silently bolted the door to keep unwanted guests from falling in. Snow made a small blue flame from her paw to light the room for everyone to see. They're in...
----------
As the guards ran past to assess the damage and reinforce their defenses, a man in a long overcoat strided past towards the room where Dr Branston resides, lighting a cigarette as he walked. Ariol, a professional hitman to protect the interests of Project Dragonstorm had arrived only a half-hour before the attack began...
-
Dr. Zanasiu shook his head. "Nope. It's the first time I've done that."
Zachary shook his head. "There's no one out there." He turned to Aisha, Dr. Landon and Alfred. "Are you all armed? I've got my rifle, James has his shotgun."
Alfred shook his head. "My shotgun is the the back of the SUV or with Hans."
"Well, you may not need a weapon, seeing how well you fought barehanded."
"I'm not interested in getting into another fistfight."
-
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary and Alfred crept out of the closet and headed deeper into the complex. The flashing red lights and blaring klaxons died down as the helos no longer pounded the front of the base.
Dr. Zanasiu found a lab labeled 451-F and tried the door, only to find out that it was locked.
He sighed and entered a lab labeled 451-G, which was unlocked but occupied by a single African Gray Parrot scientist.
"Hello. Care to tell me who you are?" the African Grey asked, without turning away from his microscope
"We're construction workers." Alfred replied.
"Oh really, then why are two of you armed?" The Parrot turned towards them. Unbeknownst, to the group, one of his hands was reaching for the alarm button under his lab bench. He pressed it and groped around for his FN Five Seven pistol.
Those are my two guards."
The Parrot feigned a smile. "Why don't you take a seat?" he said, pointing with his free hand to a few free chairs in the back of the lab.
-------------------
"Sir." A Beaver technician said to Dr. Branston. "There appear to be 4 life signs in laboratory 451-F. But according to the records, that laboratory has been locked and was up for assignment since the last scientists who worked there, Dr. Johnson Zenarchis and Dr. Brian Cass were killed in an laboratory explosion over a year ago."
"Odd. I'll have a squad check it out." Dr. Branston replied. He then radioed a squad to check the aforementioned laboratory. He then noticed the blinking red dot in laboratory 451-G. He radioed another squad to that
lab.
-------------------
The squad leader of the 451-F squad unlocked the door to the vacant lab and readied his weapon, an M4 carbine with an attached tactical light. He threw in a flashbang and his squad rushed in, sweeping the lab.
"There's no one here." a Shire Horse soldier said.
"Try the closet." the squad leader, a rugged looking Border Collie said.
Three of his men went to the closet and tried to open it, only to find it was locked. "Odd. It's locked."
The squad leader handed him the key.
The Shire Horse inserted the key into the lock and turned it.
(OOC - it was mentioned that life signs sensors are everywhere in Pelvanida during the previous RP. )
-
Ariol reached the main room and entered, clearly hearing the last part of Dr Banston's orders. "Trouble with security again, Doc?" he said with a smug look. One look over at the security alarm lighting up nearby. "Looks like uninvited guests in 451-G, too..."
----------
As the guard turned the key, no one would be ready as the door exploded from the closet into the lab, taking anyone down with it. Almost immediately, Vic, Feral, & Aiko leaped from the ceiling above and tossed out their own flashbangs across the laboratory. The trio launched through the doorway and gunned in all directions...
Snow and Dr Joe were next to leave the closet, keeping low to avoid enemy fire...
-
(OOC - F-22 and Nick, I'm kinda waiting for you both.)
A few of guards were cut down by the surprise attack but the quickly took cover and returned fire.
-----------------------
"Ah, you must be Ariol." Dr. Branston said. "You may head down to 451-G and dispose of the intruders."
"Dr. Branston! The 451-F squad has run into trouble." a technician said.
Dr. Branston sighed and radioed another squad to assist.
---------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu, Alfred and Zachary took the scientist up on his offer.
"Something isn't right. He's too calm." Alfred whispered.
Dr. Zanasiu was hidden behind a cabinet.
Suddenly, the door opened and 7 guards, bearing either M4 carbines or Remington 870 shotguns, entered.
One of the guards, a Lion gestured to the group. "Drop your weapons and come with us."
In response, shotgun blast struck him in the chest.
Alfred took the opportunity to hide and Zachary took the opportunity to duck behind a nearby lab bench. He immediately opened fire. As Zachary fired, the guards scattered around the lab, seeking cover and returning fire.
The African Gray dove behind a lab bench and started firing in the direction where the shotgun blast came from.
-
Aisha and Dr Langston came, with guns blazing. two guards from wee-placed shots in the chest from Aisha. another was knoked outr colds by Dr Landon
-
Another shotgun blast from Dr. Zanasiu felled a guard trying to shoot Aisha. A quick burst of rifle fire from Zachary felled a guard who was trying to shoot Dr. Landon and wounded one who was trying to shoot Zachary.
Even Alfred did what he could, a well thrown fire extinguisher knocked out the African Gray scientist, who had nearly put a bullet in Zachary's head.
-
Nice shooting" Aisha commented as she took cover. there were only two guards left.. "Take the last couple out, then we need to head out.. shoot out any cameras you can find.' aisha said..
-
Dr. Zanasiu noticed a round camera in the middle of the lab. A quick shotgun blast turned the camera into unrecognizable pieces of plastic and metal.
"So do we search this lab for data and confiscate it or do we simply destroy whatever lab equipment we find?" Alfred asked from behind cover.
"I'm not sure if we'll see any paper data. I'd say trashing this lab would slow down Dragonstorm a lot. I'll bet they're still working on it even as we're shooting it out right now." Zachary replied, reloading his rifle. He then turned to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "Destroy or search the lab?"
--------------
The technician monitoring the life signs sensor in 451-G gasped as the monitor read "sensor malfunction". "Sir, the intruders in 451-G destroyed the sensor."
Dr. Branston grumbled. "451-G leader, what is your status?" he said into his portable radio.
-------------------
"Under attack! There's only two of us left!" the Dhole squad leader shouted. He stood up to fire two shotgun blasts at Alfred. He ducked back down as a shotgun blast rocked the lab bench. He watched as his last remaining squad member was killed by a shotgun blast to the head.
-
Aisha fired and killed the group leader. "Destroy the lab, of course! Setr back Dragonstorm as much as possible!" She said. 'We may need evidence to hand back to the FBI and Justice Department when all is said and done..."
-
Alfred, Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary came out from behind cover.
"Well Alfred take whatever weapon you want." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred shrugged and immediately grabbed a dead guard's Remington 870 shotgun. He searched every guard's bodies and came away with only 24 shells. "Looks like they were almost out of ammo." He reloaded his shotgun and looked around. He then turned to Aisha. "It's a bit ironic I came here to fix the place up and I end up trashing it." As he spoke, he blew up a computer with a shotgun blast, sending electronics flying. He was about to shoot a fumehood but Dr. Zanasiu stopped him.
"Let's not destroy anything that could get us sick or kill us. That means anything with the biohazard or radiation symbol, fumehoods, glove boxes, incubators and chemical storage are off limits. This applies to all the labs we sabotage. This particular lab has been used for cybernetics research so encountering any of those hazards is minimal." Dr. Zanasiu said. Having said that, he destroyed an EEG machine with a shotgun blast.
Zachary entered the utility closet and returned with a crowbar. He cut the lab X-ray machine's power and opened it up. He quickly cut all the wires inside and for good measure, smashed the emission window.
-
Aisha filed through a cabinets and stuffed the contewnts into her purse.. 'Luckily they put down on computer paper what they were doing .. the FBi will be interested in this.." she smiled. "Those we don't kill, will be in prison for life.."
-
Feral watched as the guards scattered, and homed his fire on the control next to the door they came in, taking away their chances of escape or reinforcements to arrive. Slowly, the guards started going down from the infiltrators' gunfire.
Aiko sent a wave of bullets underneath the desks, striking the legs of two guards. One fell further into cover, the other exposed himself to Vic's aim...
----------
"I don't get paid to do cleanup," Ariol remarked. "That would be your security's job...which is why the brass sent me here..."
-
"Well, what do you want to do?" Dr. Branston asked.
--------------
Alfred looked around at the destruction the group had wreaked on the lab: electronics were reduced to piles of metal and plastic; various pieces of scientific equipment were either smashed to pieces or shorted out; almost every cabinet was either smashed or riddled with bullets; the lights had been shot out; the sink was clogged and the water pipes broken, covering the lab's floor in a layer of water. The only thing intact was the fumehood.
"Well, let's head out." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"I'd say we fixed this lab up nicely." Alfred said with a grin, hefting his shotgun.
Zachary chuckled. "So what do you say we 'fix' some more labs?"
---------------------
The squad that arrived to reinforce squad 451-F found the door jammed shut.
"Sir! We can't open the door!" One of the guards said.
"Bastards must have jammed it shut." the squad leader, an Armadillo said. He pulled out a brick of C4 from his backpack."No matter." He quickly wired the door with C4 and motioning for his men to take cover behind crates, or even down nearby hallways.
He pushed the trigger on the detonator and the C4 blew the door to pieces with an earsplitting roar.
His men quickly took up defensive positions.
"We wait, shoot when they appear." the squad leader said.
-
Lets go, "fix"this place up.. by that, of course, I meab tear it to shreds.."Aisha said, walking out of the room..
-
"The reason I'm here is because the top brass are not at all pleased with the reaccuring problems here," Ariol replied. "Like what's going on right now. He's considering having Project Dragonstorm moved into more secured facilities. And he's even had a few new places just about ready to make it happen..." He paused to inhale another puff of smoke...
----------
Vic cursed under his breath as reinforcements managed to blow their way in after all. He spotted the camera on the ceiling above and put five rounds into it.
Feral turned to Snow, who crouched nearby. "Snow! Scorch these tangos out!"
Snow nodded and sent forth a strong wave of searing blue fire and sweeping it across the room from one end towards the main door, then lets loose a stronger blast through the door...
-
"We're working on the problems, Ariol." Dr. Branston said. "You are more than welcome to kill the intruders."
-----------------
Two of the guards were incinerated by the blast of fire but a guard threw a fragmentation grenade into the room.
The squad leader's uniform was singed by the intense heat from the flame but he was far enough that was not incinerated.
-----------------
"More guards." Alfred whispered, pointing to the squad next to the other door.
"Why is it so hot?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
Zachary pointed to the lab, where an intense jet of blue fire was issuing from.
-
"Lets head the other way then, " Aisha shrugged, and quietly, while they're occupied..
-
Zachary looked out. He was sweating from the intense jet of fire coming from the lab. "We can't get past them; the heat from that jet of fire coming from the lab is too intense. There's also a guard on the other side of the door. They're trying to flush out whatever is in that lab."
"So what do we do? Cause a distraction?" Alfred asked.
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "Nice thinking!" He turned to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "Any ideas for a distraction?"
-
"Got any grenades?' a smile grew on Aishas face.. " Just toss one at his feet.. they'll think it came from inside the lab.."
-
"Grenade!" Aiko shouted.
Everyone dove for cover as the little bomb exploded, sending bits of metal everywhere. A piece of shrapnel ricochet off the cold hard floor and struck Feral in his right thigh. Feral growled but clenched his teeth from the pain. The same guard pulled out another grenade and removed the pin, but did not have the second chance as Vic sprang back up and gunned him down. The grenade slipped out of the dead guard's hand.
"Fire in the hole!" Vic shouted and ducked again...
----------
"And prove the incompetency of your security?" Ariol was smug. "Why not send one of your experiments? They are supposed to be super soldiers, and we are expecting results from your work."
-
(OCC sorry for not posting I wasn't able to be on computer)
hans and werner who had gotton seperated from the group were now by one of the labs close to the others. A machine gun opened fire causing them to dive for coverbehind a wall. "M2 50. cal I can tell by the sound,' hans said.
-
The grenade exploded killing the rest of the guards.
----------------
The report of the grenade reached the ears of the group hiding in the adjacent lab.
Zachary looked out the lab door and noticed that the guards were dead and the jet of fire was gone.
"Okay, let's go check out that lab." he said, motioning for everyone to follow.
Zachary, Dr, Zanasiu and Alfred readied their weapons and headed into the hallway.
They then took positions opposite the door: Zachary on the left, Alfred on the right and Dr. Zanasiu, behind a large crate, diagonal to the lab door.
-----------------
Dr. Branston grinned and radioed the scientists. He turned to Ariol. "I'm currently seeing which experiment is ready."
Meanwhile, Dr. Bailey had managed to lift one of the closet ceiling tiles damaged in the previous terrorist attack. He pulled himself into the crawlspace and headed towards his old lab.
-
Aisha crouched next toZachary, and Dr Langston moved next to Alfred. "So whats the plan? Stealth, I presume..?" she asked.
-
Dr. Zanasiu shook his head. He pointed to Alfred and Aisha and himself then pointed inside. He pointed to Zachary and Dr. Landon and then pointed to their respective positions outside the door.
-
"After you" Aisha said shooting the door open..' Take out any cameras we don't want the Dragonstorm guys to know where we are or what we're doing .."
-
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred burst into the room sweeping around with the tactical lights on their shotguns.
"Odd, there's no gunfire." Alfred asked, looking around.
Dr. Zanasiu hit a light switch and noticed that the room appeared to be empty.
"Check behind all the tables." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred nodded.
-
Aisha walked in , her gun poised . " Nothings in here.. But take out the cameras just in case.."
-
But the room was far from empty...
Aiko appeared behind Alfred with his gun at his back, Feral tossed a desk in the path of the doorway as Aisha moved in and raised his gun at her head. Vic also sprang up with the laser sight at Zanasiu...and his jaw dropped. "Dr. Zanasiu?!"
Dr Joe, hearing this, popped up with a stunned look on her face. "Dr. Zanasiu? What're you doing here?!"
"You know them?" Aiko said, hesitant about lowering his gun...
-
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "We had arrived from Carson City Camp to dispose of Dragonstorm. These are my allies: Aisha Tennes and Alfred Byford." He then turned to the door. "It's all clear, we've met some friendlies!"
Zachary then came in. He looked around. "Dr. Joe, Vic!?"
Alfred relaxed slightly but did not lower his weapon. "You know them?"
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "I know two of them. Vic Summers and Professor Josephine Stephenson also known as Dr. Joe. They were with us when we helped secure the facility."
"Ah, so they're allies?"
-
Snow came up next to see the commotion and relaxed some. Vic, Aiko, and then Feral lowered their weapons.
"Sorry about that, Dr Zanasiu," Vic replied. "We never thought anyone else will be dropping by to help."
"Are you the only ones here?" Feral questioned.
----------
Ariol crossed his arms. "Good. After all of this is done, then we'll start talking about the move."
(OOC: Are the sub-levels still intact?)
-
(OOC - The sublevels are intact.)
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "I believe we are the only friendlies here. Unless, you want to try and recruit some other scientists or experiments."
----------------
The radio in the control room crackled. "Dr. Branston, this is Dr. Lin, we are sending you experiment A-35."
Dr. Branston looked at the status report for A-35 and grinned. "This will make an difficult foe. A-35 is both electrokinetic and magnetokinetic."
-----------------
Deeper inside the complex, two scientists, a Human and a Dingo were speaking to a tall, pale blue Iguana.
"Magneto, you are to confront the intruders. Kill them if you so desire." the Dingo said.
Magneto, the Iguana, nodded. "I understand."
"Go."
Magneto's body crackled with electricity, the silver jumpsuit he wore flashed with the reflected light of the electric arcs that leapt across his body. He then walked out of the lab, leaving an odor of ozone in his wake.
"You named him Magneto?!" the Human said.
The Dingo grinned. "Yep. A very fitting name, don't you think?"
-
"Too dangerous," Feral stated. "For now, we could only assume there are no other allies here. We have much to do here, and we can't afford to let our guard down."
----------
Ariol listened as one Dragonstorm experiment was released into the compound. By what this creature has for power, he thought, I'll probably be sick if they were stupid enough to name it after a certain Marvel character...
----------
In the lab adjacent to where the experiment was released, another Dragonstorm superweapon, A-14 aka Deathwind, was sitting in his cell. A couple twitches with his supersonic wings reveal to him that something big was happening just outside his steel prison...
----------
Meanwhile, the sub-levels, now quarantined from the rest of the complex, remained with a dark and eerie feel as the experimental rejects and creations of madness lurked in every shadow. One cell room remained locked during the initial war a year ago, within it a small and frightened creature...but also with a frightening and dangerous power... He cowers in the darkest corner of his room, his large ears picking up for even a pin drop outside...
-
Nice to meet you all' aisha said. " The more help we can get the bettereed to talk and run" She said gesturing to an open door on the other side of the lab..
-
Magneto walked through the steel and concrete hallways leaving a trail of ozone behind him.
---------------
"So, Vic have you found anything in this laboratory?" Dr. Zanasiu asked. "Erm, about the Bison, his name's Alfred Byford. He's a contractor hired to fix this place up. Aisha convinced him to join us." He then lowered his voice. "Should we keep him in our group or could he be a burden?"
Alfred looked around and noticed that most of the lab was riddled with bullet holes and scorch marks. "Well, do you guys want to see what's in this lab we can use?"
Zachary quickly shut the door leading into the hallway.
-------------------
Dr. Bailey listened carefully to ensure the lab below him was unoccupied He then crawled over to the camera and disconnected it. He then kicked out a ceiling tile and lowered himself into the darkened lab. He bolted the door and turned on the lights.
The lab was immaculate and the office nameplate read Dr. Keith Bailey. He entered the office and turned on the lights. It was cool and clean. He sat down in the chair and pondered his next move.
-
Sure, whatever wasn't blasted to bit.. we could break off the table legs and use them as weapons.."Aisha suggested..
-
"We have firearms." Zachary said simply. "Table legs are kind of useless. Even if we run of of ammo we can still use our firearms as clubs."
"Well then, let's fan out and ransack this place." Alfred said.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and opened the closet.
Alfred opened the door leading to the office. He suddenly found himself face to face with a Pelvanida guard. The guard was a bit surprised at the appearance of Alfred but before he could reach his rifle, Alfred shot him in the chest. "Guys! I found a guard in the office. There must be something there!"
-
' good work Alfred ' Dr Landon said reaching the guard quickly." Alfred's shot had done it work, the guard was gone.. "Lets see what he was guarding.."
-
Alfred nodded. "Hopefully those soldiers don't think I'm a burden to their operation. I heard what Dr. Zanasiu was saying about me." He opened the refrigerator and found nothing except for food and a Glock 18 pistol. "Who the hell keeps a pistol in the fridge?"
-
"Trying to keep the bullers cool? Dr Landford shrugged as they took the pistol, which was fulled loaded with ammo..
_
Don't worry Alfred, you're noit a burden, they'll find that out, like we already havce.."Aisha said smiling..
-
"He's helpful if he knows any new features to this place," Vic answered Dr Zanasiu.
"Aiko! See if you can somehow hack into the master control," Feral commanded. "Vic, help barricade these doors to seal this room. Dr Joe, check this place out for anything useful."
As instructed, Aiko set up his own little computer, using the wires that were left from the shot-up camera, and got to work. Vic grabbed the nearest desk and hauled it in front of one of the lab doors. Dr Joe and Snow began looking among the damage left behind by the fire fight.
Dr Joe then instinctively walked into the office that was just cleared and fished through a desk into some files. "It seems here that this lab was used for alloy weapon research," she pondered. She looked up at the pistol that was found in the fridge.
-
"He told me he has been hired to repair Pelvanida after the attacks. I'd assume that he was given clearance to go into the labs but it is unlikely that he knows about things like the gatling guns out front or the defensive turrets in sensitive parts of the base." Dr. Zanasiu said. "And he told me he's trapshooting enthusiast. Like that helps." Dr. Zanasiu added, rolling his eyes.
"Where's Hans and Werner?" Zachary asked.
"They should have been behind us." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"Well, then where are they?"
"Hans! Werner!" Dr. Zanasiu called, getting no response. His face paled. "Oh no! They're gone!"
------------------
Alfred opened the desk drawer and retrieved a folder dated from about 6 months ago. He read the words on the folder: "The Effects of Electrokinesis On Nanobot Assisted Healing In Pediatric Subjects."
He walked out of the office and handed the folder to Aisha. "Aisha, I found this folder in the desk. I have no idea what its about but all I know is that it involves children. For a study that is almost half a year old, there's little in it." He opened the folder. "The only thing in it is a list of names: Keegan O'Neill, Montgomery Hicks, Jason Hathaway and Jane Caldwell."
He turned to Dr. Joe. "You must be Dr. Joe, I am Alfred Byford. I am pleased to meet you." extending his right hand to her
-------------------
Zachary picked up one of the smaller lab tables and placed it in front the entrance that Vic had already barricaded.
-
Dr Joe looked up as Alfred introduced himself, and then took his hand in hers and shook it. "Same here, Dr Byford," she said. She looked down at the folders in his hands as she had heard the names he read out loud. "Those names you read... Some of them sounded like the scientists from Dragonstorm. We had our confrontations with them a year ago. I don't know what happened to them since... But whoever kept those files is also working on these files, and these are more recent."
As one door was successfully barricaded, Vic moved to the other door and helped Feral push another large table in front of it. He then turned to Dr Zanasiu. "Is there a way we can contact them?" he asked.
-
"It's 'Mr. Byford'. I am an employee of Irvine Construction; I don't work here. I am a simple construction worker, turned hero thanks to Ms. Tennes." He gestured to Aisha. "But back to those names I read off, I've overheard some of the researchers here talk about how some scientists were arrested and fired for and I quote 'gross violations of ethical codes'. I've even heard that the prestigious Equestrian Scientific Union got involved in this mess. Could it be the ESU had some hand in overturning some of these scientists' convictions?"
----------------
Dr. Zanasiu shook his head. "I'm afraid not. We also had what amounted to a small arsenal when we arrived but we lost it when we crashed through the gates."
"Perhaps we should take stock of our supplies." Zachary said, picking up a small table and wedging it against the other door.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Good idea."
-
'you're givng me too much credit Alfred, yoiu could have decided not to come.." Aisha said.. "Yes, you made the choice to come with.. any credit we get from this, you will claim a full share..' Dr langston said..
-
Alfred grinned. "Aisha, you literally dragged me and Dr. Landon from this base!"
-
That is true, but my instinctws were telling me to get out of there..So i brought yiou guys along" Aisha said..
-
Aiko had managed to hook up the system wires, but it was to a small black box rather than his laptop. "Give me one more minute," he said. "Then we'll be able to hack into the master computer."
Feral turned his head when he heard what Dr Zanasiu and Zachary said. "We could only spare a few weapons of our own," he replied. "This was meant to be a covert insertion, so we had to be light on everything..."
----------
Meanwhile, Ariol was strolling towards the armory, talking low on his cell phone. "I've just talked with him... And yes, the base security was breached again... He's just sent out an experiment to sanitize the facility... We'll find out the results of the project if the experiment succeeds..." He stopped at the vault as he passed a keycard through a scanner. The light turned green, and the door opened. "Yes sir... He's been told of the move... I'll sugar-coated it more for him after when I pick up my goodies..." Hanging up, he then walked through the door into the armory, closing it shut tight behind him...
-
Magneto walked through the hallways. He suddenly felt an unusual tingling sensation. "Hmm. Someone's trying to hack into the system." He then went over to a Ethernet port and stuck his fingers into the port. He closed his eyes as he read the data coming in.
"Hmm. Statistics, budgets, today's lunch, repair requests, and... wait, that's an odd signal. And I know where's it's coming from: lab 451-F." He removed his fingers from the Ethernet port and headed down the hallway.
-------------------
"We came with only one weapon and no armor. We were trying to disguise ourselves as employees." Zachary said.
"I guess, we'll need to steal weapons like we did last time." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
Feral looked around the bodies of those that came to kill them, and then began to take whatever weapons lying around and placing them on the tables. "You'll need to check them all to see if they still work." He suddenly paused as he reached down to pick up what used to a rifle, but now a smoldering mass of metal thanks to Snow's powers. "There are those that obviously don't work anymore..."
"Another thirty seconds then we'll send a cleaning virus to force all the systems to shut down," Aiko said eagerly as he set his laptop.
Snow's ears twitched as she felt something was wrong. <I sense something may be coming towards us...> she said telepathically to Vic and Dr Joe. <It's not good...>
Dr Joe dropped her file as she heard Snow and hovered at the doorway to the office.
"Heads up," Vic said in response to Snow's warning. "We got company..."
-
; Let me guess its one of those experiments Dragonstorm was working on.. just great " Aisha muttered..
-
"I'm not sure, but I hope it isn't" Dr. Zanasiu said readying his shotgun. He also looked around the room for anything that could be pressed into service as a weapon or a distraction.
Alfred and Zachary readied their weapons too.
---------------------
Magneto was now outside the lab. He tried the door only to found out that it jammed shut.
He gave the door a tug with his magentokinetic abilities and found out that it was indeed magnetic. He pointed at the door and concentrated, his body crackled with lightning as he did so. The powerful magnetic fields from his hands were slowly but steadily pulling the steel door out of the wall. The sounds of wrenching steel were heard through out the room.
----------------
"Damn it! It's coming!" Zachary whispered. He was crouched behind a heavy lab bench.
-
Everyone else took cover behind anything that was nearby.
"How's that thing coming in?!" Aiko was stunned as he hid behind a table near his workshop.
"It must have some kind of electromagnetic control!" Dr Joe replied from the office.
"Something tells me bullets won't stop it easily," Feral growled under his breath.
-
"If it is electrokinetic as well, shorting it out may incapacitate the experiment, giving us time to kill it or run away." Zachary said.
"How are we going to do that? Run up to it and jam a piece of metal into it?" Alfred asked.
"That may work but the electric current will flow through the piece of metal, through you and into the ground, killing you in the process."
Dr. Zanasiu thought a moment. "Remember when we shorted out Cale using saline? Even ordinary tap water contains enough solute to conduct a substantial current. Failing that, dissolve some sort of soluble salt in some water. Strong bases and acids will also work, in addition to causing tissue damage and being irritants, they are also strong electrolytes due to the free ions."
"Get to the point." Zachary grumbled. "No time for a lecture."
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Find something that's an acid or a base or something that has a salt."
"Wait, if he can control magnetic fields, could be trick him to attracting something dangerous, like a piece of steel?" Alfred asked.
-
"Great, and it's only 2 more months before I get my own electromagnetic coil gun..." Aiko muttered.
Aiko's words lingered in Dr Joe's mind as an idea popped up. "Hey guys!" she called out. "Take the metal tables and make a channel in front of the door! Its powers will make the tables magnetic! With that, we can use Alfred's idea of sending a sharp steel piece at it!"
"We'll make a railgun out of it with his powers!" Aiko responded with excitement.
-
"Technically, it's more of a coilgun." Dr. Zanasiu said "But it will work. And the projectile will only accelerate if the coils are magnetized and demagnetized in a pattern: one coil attracts the projectile, that coil turns off, next coil attracts the projectile and so on."
Zachary and Alfred each picked up one of the tables and aligned them perpendicular to the door. They repeated their actions until a channel aimed at the door was made with the steel tables.
Dr. Zanasiu looked at the heavily damaged steel door. "We don't have much time."
"What if this guy can control his powers at will? Like he can vary the strength of his magnetic fields or even turn them off?" Zachary asked.
"In that case we'll try and provoke him into using his powers then we'll throw a magnetic object at him."
Alfred went to the utility closet and removed a large crowbar and placed it in the middle of the channel.
-
Vic, Aiko, & Feral helped in creating the channel of tables, and then took up positions behind other desks set up for them and the others. Snow went to the office and stood next to Dr Joe, whom now is hidden from sight of the doorway.
"In order for him to keep us from shooting him, he'll have to use his powers up the channel to get the guns," Dr Joe stated over the noise of the screeching metal. "In theory, it should work!"
-
Magneto had now torn the door out of the wall. He magnetically held it in front of himself like a shield while his right hand was covered with a ball of electricity.
"Come out and play." he taunted.
Alfred popped up from behind a table and fired a single round at Magneto. "Come a little closer!" He the ducked behind a table.
He quickly moved the door to ward off the shotgun blast and sent a bolt of lightning soaring over the table.
Zachary also fired a short burst then ducked back down.
-
Before Feral even turned to call Snow for assistance, the former experiment joined the fray and sent forth a blast of fire at the Dragonstorm monster, aiming it low at his legs...
Feral & Aiko took the opportunity to send a lethal spray of gunfire at the experiment, most of which ricochet off the creature's only defense. Vic reached into his bag and took out an odd object, and then fitted it right on the muzzle of his gun...
-
Aisha joinee the fray unleashing a lorrent of bullets from her gun. the door was now riddled with bullet holes.. but she kept firing..
-
Magneto held the heavily damaged door in front of himself, blocking Snow's flamethrower attack. The door glowed red with the heat and started to soften. He fired a lightning bolt at Snow. A short burst from Zachary grazed him.
"Give me those guns!" Magneto shouted. He gestured and tried to soon everyone felt the powerful tug of Magneto on their weapons.
"Alfred! Go!" Zachary shouted.
Alfred grabbed the crowbar and aimed it like a rifle. As soon as he felt the pull of the intense magnetic field he let go, sending the crowbar hurtling towards Magneto.
-
Aisha struggled against the pull Magneto was exterting on her gub.. DR Landon called out to her. "Let him have it.." "I'm going to" as she saifd this she saw Alfred's release of the crowbar.. Inwardm, she grinned.. that was a good move..
-
Zachary's great strength was no match for Magneto's pull. He fired off a short burst and then let go of his rifle.
Alfred let go of his shotgun and threw a fire extinguisher at Magneto.
Magneto moved the door to deflect the rifle fire but he left part of body exposed and the and the crowbar crashed into his side, staggering him. He moved the door to deflect Zachary's rifle and used his other hand to magnetically deflect Alfred's shotgun by the fire extinguisher crashed into his head, dazing him.
-
Get him while he;s stunned!" Aisha said, opening fire with renewed vigor. the blow had weakened the pull on the gun long enough for her to gain control of it fully.
-
(Sorry about the long absence, guys. Could someone PM me about what I've missed?)
-
The lightning bolt grazed Snow's left shoulder and she fell to the side, a clear black mark of singed fur through her equally blackened jacket. Dr Joe quickly ran up to grab her and pull her behind a desk.
Aiko couldn't hold on to his gun as it slipped out of his grip. But he quickly drew his sidearm and started firing.
Vic held on long enough to put the object on his gun, and when the magnetic pull weakened, he raised his weapon and aimed. The object was a newly created door-breaching explosive designed to be fired from any assault rifle. "Fire in the hole!" he shouted, and fired...
-
As the bullet flew towards Magneto, A blast of electrical energy enveloped it, forming a glowing field around it.
"Heh...Sorry we're late, guys!"
"That we are. We were...rendered unconscious by the crash."
"...Apologies, everyone."
"My apologies for being late, sirs"
"Snow! Are you okay?"
"Did we miss the party?"
Standing nearby were Cale, Slash, Kagetora, Hawkeye, Neku, and Agito...
-
Actually, You're just in time DR Landon cracked. "Get overe here. and cover us, we're going out the other door.."
-
Alfred and Zachary, having used their guns to stun Magneto, started throwing everything they could reach at him. Chairs, tools, desks and even pencils went flying towards him.
The grenade struck the door, destroying his shield. His magnetic powers prevented most of the shrapnel from getting near him. The shrapnel was quickly accelerated to bullet like velocity by his powers and sent towards Aiko and Dr. Zanasiu. However the shockwave and heat staggered him.
Dr. Zanasiu ducked behind the table as the shrapnel flew towards him. He was lightly cut by the shrapnel though.
Magneto dove behind table as Aiko's burst of fire headed his way. In the process, he narrowly avoided geting hit with a heavy wooden chair thrown by Zachary.
-
Aisha reloaded her gun, with the last round of ammo, and kept firing. ' So whats the plan of escape!" She said.. looking at ZAchary.. I'm all ears!"
-
"Alright, guys! Let us have our shots!"
Cale yelled, facing the new experiment and forming his glass sword and shield...
"He's right. We should've been more careful getting out of that crash. Now, we'll make it up to you guys"
Slash said, small gashes forming in things close to him...
"Target identified. Dragonstorm: Magneto. We'll eliminate him."
Kagetora said, drawing his blades...
"Sir, you are officially relieved of combat!"
Hawkeye exclaimed, cannon arm ready...
"Let's party!"
Agito cackled, spikes shooting from the ends of his sleeves...
-
Aiko took shrapnel deep within his right arm, and yelped as he fell back. Vic jumped from his hiding position as Feral gave him cover. The human soldier sprinted to Aiko's aid and dragged him out of harm's way. It took only a matter of moments when Vic began to fix the Akita's bleeding arm.
"How is it, Doc?" Akita smirked.
"Superficial, 'patient,'" Vic replied. "Nothing worth kissing to make the pain go away."
"Avoid throwing something that he could catch and throw right back!" Dr Joe shouted.
"My fire should be enough..." Snow started.
"No need. We got more backup now. Neku! Over here!"
-
Dr Landon dove for cover as sharpnel ricoheted just above his head.. "Gah! Someone needs to kill that thing1" he yelled. "Before HE kills US!"
-
Magneto glared at the 4 newcomers. "I'll take those." he said, gesturing to Kagetora's blades and trying to pull them from his grasp.
"We'll let our allies cover for us. Then we'll meet by one of the labs." Zachary said. He stood up from behind cover to hurl a large wooden chair at Magneto.
Dr. Zanasiu quickly darted out the backdoor. "This way and hurry!"
Alfred nodded. He threw a wood stool at Magneto and followed Dr. Zanasiu.
Zachary quickly followed him.
-
Kagetora grinned under his mask.
"You want them? You can...Have them!"
He said, as Neku and Cale dodged in close to Magneto, both creating a field that overcharged the magnetic pull, sending both blades hurtling into Magneto's chest...
-
Aisha and Dr Landon quickly followed, ducking out of the room, and headed down a small flight of stairs. " which floor are the labs on?' Aisha asked as they moved onward..
-
Magneto barely had time to deflect both blades. Two deep cuts were left on his chest. At the same time, the throw stool caught him in the side of the head. He staggered a bit but quickly got back onto his feet. He gestured and one of the steel tables hovered in the air. He pointed to Kagetora and sent it hurtling towards him.
---------------
"There are labs in every floor." Dr. Zanasiu said.
The stairwell was well lit.
Suddenly, Alfred turned into a Doberman scientist and knocked him over.
"Pardon me sir." Alfred said.
"No problems." the scientist replied. He got back to his feet and headed up the stairs.
As soon as the scientist's footsteps faded away, Zachary spoke. "Do you think that scientist was a possible ally or did he just not recognize us?"
-
Who knosws?' Aisha shrugged. " Its not as if we can just go up to any scientist and start attacking them out of fear.."
-
Kagetora leapt off the table in midair, throwing a kick at Magneto's head as he reached for his swords. Cale quickly formed a glass knife, and taking advantage of Magneto's distracted state, stabbed int through the experiment's foot and into the floor, melding the dagger to the ground to hold Magneto...
-
Magneto screamed in pain and sent several powerful lightning bolts arcing around the room, aimed at all his attackers. He even energized Kagetora's swords.
------------------
"Our best bet is to go to the control room and hope that the admin there is friendly." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"If not, we'll need to fight our way into the control room." Alfred sighed. "Speaking of which, where is the armory? I lost my shotgun."
"There are guard posts scattered around the base. We can go in there to rearm and possibly plan."
Zachary opened a door. This was labeled "Floor 2"
"Well," he said, "there's a guard post up ahead and it's empty."
-
So we're on Floor 2.. So do we head down?' Dr Landon asked..
_ Given our greeting so far, I'll have to abnswer that no, the admin probably won't be friendly.." Aisha replied..
-
Vic shielded Aiko from the wild arcs of lightning, barely being hit himself as he patched his teammate up. Snow & Dr Joe hit the floor of the office as they escaped the experiment's wrath. Feral grabbed Aiko's lab & kit from the exposed table and ran back into the closet for cover.
----------
The armory vault reopened after a while, and Ariol stepped out. He had taken out some toys to play with, but for now they remain hidden under his coat. Casually, he lights another cigarette, and begins his trek to one of the Dragonstorm experiment labs...
-
"We'll scope out the labs here. Hopefully, we can find some allies or destroy some dome more Dragonstorm data." Zachary said.
"The guard post?" Alfred said.
"Right."
The group then moved towards the guard post. Dr. Zanasiu quickly destroyed a camera above the post before they entered it.
Zachary tried the door. "Locked." he said.
Alfred said nothing but simply smashed the window with a nearby piece of rubble. He reached in and opened the door.
"We're in."
He grabbed a Remington 870 shotgun for himself and an M4 carbine for Zachary.
------------------
In his lab, Dr. Bailey was trying to hack into the base computers to no avail. He swore as his attempts were repeatedly blocked.
-
Aisha noticed a number of files sitting on a nearby table. " lets load up.. and lets see whats in these fils " she said, giving one to Zachary. " See what you make of these..'
-
Zachary nodded and grabbed several magazines for his carbine. He nodded and opened the folder. His eyes widened as he read the name of the researcher mentioned in it, Kegan O'Neill. "What the?! I thought he was arrested!"
He dug through the papers. "That bastard! I knew those samples of cell growth accelerants were stolen!" he exclaimed.
He held up a piece of paper:
Pelvanida Incident Report: For Internal Use Only
Page 1 out of 4
Name: Zachary Johnson
Department: Biologics - Cellular engineering
Date Prepared: October 4, 2004
How long at this job: 1 year
Position/Title: Head Researcher of Advanced Healing
Location of Incident: Laboratory 316-R
Date/Time of incident: October 1, 2004 / 13:00
Principal Investigator/Supervisor: Ian Lycom
Overview of incident: theft of 5 eppendorf tubes containing an experimental cell growth accelerant.
Zachary leafed through the other papers. "The whole [censored] incident report is in here! That's why no action was ever taken!"
-
So I take it, these filers are important?' Aisha replied, seeing Zachary's reaction. " Did you blamed for a crime you didn't commit or something..?"
-
Zachary shook his head. "No, quite the opposite. I was working on a serum designed to accelerate cell growth in an effort to speed healing. Unfortunately, uncontrolled and accelerated cell growth equals cancer. For some reason, only equines, like myself and O'Neill were immune to the carcinogenic effect. I was in the process of attempting to make it compatible with all species when those samples were stolen. I made an incident report and for some reason, the entire matter was never spoken of again."
"We need to get moving." Dr. Zanasiu said. He grabbed a box of shotgun shells and divided them between Alfred and himself.
-
Aisha gathered upany others fieles she could find. " Read the others when we avcve a spare moment.. for now, we need to keep moving " Aisha said, grabbing a .45.
-
The group then filed out the guard post and passed by a completely sealed lab. The name on the door read Dr. Keith Bailey.
"So, you guys wanna enter?" Alfred asked. "We could get another ally or..."
"Get shot at." Zachary deadpanned.
Alfred frowned "Or we can 'fix' the lab."
"Well, any damage we do to Dragonstorm is good." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
Cale and Neku dodged the lightning arcs, absorbing what they could, as the team moved again. Kagetora lunged, slashing at Magneto with the now-glowing swords as Neku slashed low with his beam blade. Cale created a glass sword, attacking from behind, as Hawkeye swung his wings, edges razor-sharp...
-
I say we open it.. ' Dr Landon said, voicing his opinion..
_
Open it.. Dr Bailey may be able to help us..' aisha reasoned.
-
"Okay then..." Dr. Zanasiu said, pressing the intercom on the door. "This is Dr. James Zanasiu." he said into the intercom.
----------------------
Dr. Bailey listened to the intercom. "Who is Dr. Zanasiu?" he muttered. He then activated a camera and looked at the group gathered outside his door. He recognized Alfred, Aisha and Dr. Landon.
He spoke into the intercom. "Aisha, you may come in." he then unlocked the door.
----------------------
Magento roared in rage and everything in the room that was magnetic began flying at his attackers. Lightning also ferociously arced around the room, energizing every conductive surface. The attacks were beginning to take a toll on him as blood dripped from many deep wounds.
-
Thank you DR Bailey.." aisha said open entering " Can you help us? We're trying t get rid.. well of you know what.." She said this in case there were still working camera in this room..
-
Dr. Bailey stepped out of the office. "Well, Ms. Tennes nice of you to come back. Don't worry, I disabled all the cameras and sensors in this room. And I wager that these are your allies?"
-
indeed" aisha nodded. " This is dR Landon, and I'll let the others introduce themselves.."
-
Kagetora spun away, but then was hit by a lightning bolt, staggering in pain and dropping his left sword.
"Gah! This is getting dangerous! We need to finish this now!"
He said, dodging many more blasts...
"Right! Cale! Let's give him a boost that he won't soon forget!"
Neku yelled, slamming his blade into Magneto and unleashing a storm of electricity, creating a massive magnetic field as Cale added his strength...
-
Magneto fell to the ground, finally dying: the immense exertion and severe injuries overpowered his cybernetic body. "There...are...more." he said. With those words, he collapsed dead.
-----------------
"Dr. Bailey, I am Dr. Zanasiu." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"I am Zachary Johnson." Zachary added.
"I am Alfred Byford." Alfred said.
Dr. Bailey shook each of their hands in turn. "Well, as you can see I am Dr. Bailey. I used to work in the electronic warfare program. Radar jammers, cyberattacks, etc. I got promoted to control room operator. Unfortunately, I was assaulted and locked in a closet by Dr. Ian Branston, my assistant. Even though the control room is heavily guarded, it is vital that we control it."
"Well, I also have a question to ask, can you fight?" Zachary asked.
"I have claws but I am a terrible physical fighter. I can however fight very well in cyberspace." Dr. Bailey replied.
-
Vic had to drag Aiko from the fray into the office, where Snow and Dr Joe hid, and stayed there until the fight was over. Vic wasted no time as he patched up Snow's shoulder.
Dr Joe cautiously stepped out the office door to see the devastation that must have been dreamed of in the Dragonstorm scientists' sick minds...
Feral stepped from the closet to get a closer look at the fallen Dragonstorm weapon, and then moved the body with his foot so that he could the experiment's face. It was certainly dead...
----------
Deathwind's antennae twitched as he felt something in the atmosphere go quiet. Too peaceful for his enjoyment...
-
Aisha turned as the sounds of battle died away. " Either they got him, or he got them.." She said..
-
"We'd better go check." Zachary said.
"Agreed. We can't let that thing run free; it could kill us all." Alfred said. He was loading his shotgun as he was speaking.
"Dr. Bailey, stay near someone who is armed." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
Good idea' Dr landon agreed. " Lewts head back there.. hopefully, they got him.."he said, moving up the stairs..
-
Dr. Bailey stood by Alfred. "So Alfred, what bought you back here?"
"The desire to stop Dragonstorm and the fact that I was convinced to join and possibly for some excitement." Alfred replied.
Dr. Zanasiu opened the door and to his shock found the lab in complete and utter disarray: large gouges were cut in the floors, ceilings and walls from the ferocious electrical attacks; chairs were found embedded into the walls, anything electronic was either melted or battered into an unrecognizable pile. Magento was in the middle of the room, lying dead in a pool of his own blood.
"Neku, Agito, Slash, Vic, Feral, Snow, Dr. Joe, Hawkeye, Kagetora! Is everyone okay?" Zachary called.
Dr. Bailey looked at one of the tables embedded halfway into the wall. "Judging from the power this experiment had, there is a high possibility they sustained injuries, possibly even fatalities."
-
Lets drag that thing out of here. " Any of your guys ever performed an atutospy before? I what to know what that thing is made out of .." Aisha said..
-
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu shook their heads.
Dr. Bailey grimaced. "Nope. I autopsy computers, not living things."
-
"Some of us took a licking from this thing," Vic replied as helped Aiko up.
"It's minor," Aiko responded, gently testing his bandaged arm. He then went to grab his guns and holstered them.
"Same here," Snow answered.
Feral handed Aiko's computer to him. "Does this still work?"
Aiko fingered across the keys. "Yes sir."
"Good. Then we move as soon as possible to point B. We had a possibility we can't use one of the labs here to hack into the main computer."
-
Fine, I'll perform the auyopsy. I just need a knife, s some thread to sew im back up, and something to put his orgsand in.." aisha, had dabbled in becoming a mortician in college, but soon gave it up.. her father had decided it wasn't for her..
-
Dr. Bailey looked at the new arrivals. "Pardon me but who are you?" he asked.
"They're our allies." Alfred said. "I'll let them introduce themselves to you."
"Dr. Bailey, you said taking the control room would significantly help in this mission?" Zachary asked.
Dr. Bailey nodded. "Knowledge is a potent a weapon as a firearm."
"So where is the control room?"
"It's one floor down. However, ever since the terrorist attack, the control room has been significantly hardened. Autonomous gun turrets, heavy blast doors capable of resisting significant impact and armed guards."
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Pity Dr. Shelton isn't here to help us."
Dr. Bailey frowned. "Are you implying that I'm incompetent?!"
-
Neku and Cale stepped out of the room, Cale decloaking as he did so.
"Good to see you guys. We took care of this one, but it almost did us in. If there are more of these experiments, and they attack together..."
Cale shivered.
"He's right..."
Kagetora conceded, nodding and clutching his arm...
Neku walked over to Snow, hugging her.
Hawkeye looked at the corpse for a moment.
"There are definitely augmentations of a cybernetic type. Cranial, and endoskeletal, at the least"
He said, scanners whirring...
Slash and Agito slid in to look at the body.
"Do we need to get inside it?"
Slash asked, looking at the group...
-
"i want to see what it was made o=f.. what " additions' were made. This mat be only the first of many such experiments .. better that we have some idea of what we are up against.."
-
Alfred absorbed the info. "I'd wager that his bones were somehow reinforced, possibly with metal."
"How would you know?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"Simple, I threw a fire extinguisher, which was magnetically accelerated towards him. That impact should have broken his skull. Not stagger him and the fire extinguisher should not have bounced off his head like it would have bounced off my truck!"
-
His bones also might be simply thicker than normal' Aisha pointed out.. " We won't find out for sure until we go inside for a look see.."
-
Slash looked at the body, then focused, using his power to cut into the flesh, gradually opening the chest cavity...
-
Dr. Bailey looked at Aisha. "Aisha. how long do you expect this to take? We cannot continue without taking the control room."
-
It shouldn't take long. You guys can take the control room while I operate" Aisha replied..
-
Snow hugged Neku back while the rest of her team repacked themselves for another move.
"Snow, we'll have to start making our way to point B very soon," Dr Joe said.
"But can't Neku..."
"If he wants to come, then fine," Feral replied sternly. "He may be of help against any more of those superweapons we come across."
Snow looked up into Neku's eyes. "Neku?"
-
"So who's coming?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"I am." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"As we both are." Alfred and Zachary replied almost simultaneously.
------------
Dr. Branston received a radio transmission from the scientists who created Magneto. "Dr. Branston, Magneto's implanted radio tag shows his life signs have ceased."
"What!? Those intruders killed him?!" Dr. Branston demanded.
"Well, yes."
Dr. Branston swore into the microphone. "Use normal soldiers and experiments for now. Dragonstorm experiments are extremely valuable and we cannot waste them."
"Understood."
Dr. Branston cut the transmission and went over to the closet to milk Dr. Bailey for information.
He opened the closet door...and found nothing there.
-
Neku smiled, nuzzling Snow.
"Of course I'll come with, Snow. I don't wanna be away from you anymore."
He said, looking into her beautiful eyes...
Slash and Hawkeye looked up.
"We'll stay here, and help with the Autopsy of the Dragonstorm model."
Hawkeye said, nodding to the group...
Cale looked at the others.
"Is there anything else that we could maybe do to help, as a second team?"
He asked, indicating Agito and Kagetora...
-
Dr. Zanasiu thought a moment. "We do need an team to search for possible allies. Or to destroy Dragonstorm materials. Cale, Agito, Kagetora, would you mind doing that?"
"I'll join them." Alfred said.
-
Sounds like a plan..Slash and Hawkeye .. hold the body down while I examine the organs.. these things are huge.. much bigger than normal" Aisha said looking at magneto's interal orggans which were much larger than a normal creature of his species. " enlarged heart.. means he could run faster... st odd stuff on his lungs and liver.." Aisha murmured as she continuee examining him..
-
Dr. Zanasiu looked at his group. "Neku, Snow, Dr. Joe, Zach, Dr. Bailey, ready to head to the control room?"
Dr. Bailey nodded. "I'll lead the way."
"Stay close to someone, though." Zachary said.
"Ready?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
Dr. Bailey and Zachary nodded.
-
I'll stay here with Aisha, until she's finished with the autopsy" Dr Landon said..
-
Neku nodded his head, taking Snow's hand with a soft smile.
"I'm ready. Are you, Snow?"
He asked, smiling at her.
Cale looked at the group.
"Alright. Be safe everyone. Kagetora, Agito! Let's move!"
He said, and the three took off into the halls...
Hawkeye nodded at the anomalies on the lungs and liver of Magneto.
"Bio-Cybernetics. They enhance performance, but also drastically shorten life expectancy."
He said, fascinated...
-
Yes, but you add enough enhancements, you create an unstoppable machine of war. Once you achieve that, and unleash it, what happens to it after war's end isn't a concern to its creator... there are others like in on this base, some may be even worse.."
-
Alfred motioned to a lab with the nameplate of "Internal Cybernetics Research".
"So here it is. By the way my name is Alfred Byford. I don't believe we have met."
--------------
"Actually, I'll stay here and assist." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
Thank you, the more help I get the quicker this will be.. I just need to look at its brain.. and that should be it.." Aisgha replied..
-
Dr. Zanasiu used a nearby metal rod to tap one of Magento's exposed ribs. The sound was not unlike that of tapping a piece of metal or a ceramic vase. "Hey wait, his bones are enhanced! Apparently, they are either reinforced with metal or his bones are themselves some kind of ceramic-metal composite, not unlike those used in joint replacements only much tougher. It would be safe to assume that all of his bones were enhanced in this manner. This would make his bones nearly impossible to break."
-
"That would explain why he was so tough to kill' Aisha said, nice find DR. Zaniusu.. nice for the brian..' she said, working quickly, she cut away the top of the skull, and pulled out the brain..
-
Dr. Zanasiu pointed to a series of small wires leading from Magneto's brain. "Hmm. It looks these could connect to a stimulator of some kind. I'd wager there might be one in his amygdala; stimulating the amygdala can heighten aggression."
-
well he ceertainly was agressive.. He's almost a cyborg, really'Aisha replied, examing the wire which ran into the brain from the skull..
-
"From what Dr. Shelton and I gathered of these experiments. They combine the best of both worlds; the ability to use psionic powers coupled with cybernetic enhancements." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
-
And this was just the first of those that we met .. i'd bet anything, those Dragonstorm weirdos made more of him" Aisha said, putting the brain back in, and screwing the skull back on.. "Alright I'm finished with him..
-
Slash and Hawkeye nodded.
"This is definitely not good. Augmentations like that'll make these guys tough to stop. Tougher than I had thought..."
Slash said, shaking both halves of his head...
-
"They did." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
----------------
Alfred walked along the halls with Kagetora, Agito and Cale. "I'm not sure if I've ever introduced myself to you but I'm Alfred Byford."
A camera swiveled around to try and catch a glimpse of them but Alfred blasted it to scrap before it fully turned around.
-
How many?' Aisha asked. " If you don't know thats fine.."
-
"I cannot say." Dr. Zanasiu said. "But the information Dr. Shelton and I managed to dig up implies that this has been going on underneath the main research at Pelvanida for over 10 years. The ringleader appears to be a Human named Dr. Johnson Zenarchis; however, he was found stabbed to death by his assistant but before he died he was apparently able to kill his assailant, a Cassowary by the name of Dr. Brian Cass."
-
"A pleasure. My name is Kagetora. I'm an Ex-member of the Vigoorian Tac Nin squad."
Kagetora said, bowing his head faintly.
"I'm Cale. Renegade Pelendavia Experiment. Nice to meet you."
Cale added, as he waved at Alfred.
"I...am Agito...Renegade of Pelendavia..."
Agito stated, sliding up alongside the others...
-
"Nice to meet you all too." Alfred said. He noticed a lab door that was slightly ajar. "I'm going in."
Alfred gently pushed the door open and entered. Suddenly, there was brief exchange of gunfire and Alfred swearing.
"I'm okay!" Alfred shouted. Another gunshot was heard.
-
So you guys discovered all this, and the governmen t hasn't put a complete stop to it? Bureaucracy: Aisha muttered...
-
"If anything, the government had a hand in suppressing Dragonstorm." Dr. Zanasiu said bitterly. "That's why Dr. Shelton was deported to Europe, Zach, Werner and I were fired."
-
So they canned you to keep you from telling ? aisha had a klook of disgust on her face.. " supressing the information because it would reveal that millions of Uncle Sam's dollars wrere spent on deranged expreiments out of a Vincent Price film.."
-
"Very well," Feral said to Neku's answer. "Ok, back through the shafts. We're going down." As Aiko, Vic, and Dr Joe made their way back to the closet, Feral turned to Dr Zanasiu. "If you're going to take the control room, Doctor, then we can't help you. Our mission's taking us elsewhere."
-
"Where would that be?" Dr. Zanasiu asked. He then turned to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "Ready when you are."
-
Feral paused for the moment. This is confidential information, however... "Some of us are gathering data from other important projects in the complex before Dragonstorm was revealed, and then secure any exit routes if we survive. The rest of us...will be taking some gifts to the generator plants that's keeping this base running. A base defenses are only as good as the power that runs them. And...we're doing this via the sub-levels..."
-
"You do need to attack the backup generators as well. The main power source of the plant is a gigawatt class fusion reactor. Disabling it is easy and manually restarting it takes an entire day." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
"We don't plan on letting them have the chance to restart the plant," Feral replied. "but we don't have all the time in the world to discuss this. My team's going to the sub-levels. You coming along or are you taking the control room?"
-
We're ready.. Should we take magneto's body along, or cremate it at the soonest possible moment? Aisha asked.."
-
"I am taking the control room." Dr. Zanasiu replied. He then turned to Aisha. "Best we dispose of the body or store it somewhere. We can't take Magento's body with us. There is a possibility that it contains a tracking device."
-
Ariol re-enters the room to hear what Dr Branston has heard of the dead Dragonstorm experiment. This was not something the boss upstairs would like to hear... "Any idea that some of these intruders were experiments?"
----------
"Fine," Feral turned to see Snow and Neku. "Let's get moving."
-
Thats possible" Aisha reasoned. I'll Stick it in a closet somwhere when I get the chance.. For Now I'm taking him a long.."
-
Dr. Zanasiu handed Feral a key card. "This is the key card to the sublevel fusion reactor."
-
Feral nodded and took the key, then waited by the closet door for the couple.
"Ready?" Snow asked Neku.
-
Neku nodded.
"Ready."
He said, smiling at Snow.
-
Alfred had stumbled upon 2 Dragonstorm scientists and their two guards.
He had killed both one of the scientists but the remaining scientist and the 2 guards did not let him return fire.
"Kagetora and crew! Some help!" he shouted over the gunfire.
--------------------
Dr. Bailey then led Dr. Landon, Aisha Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary down the halls.
---------------------
Dr. Branston saw the approaching group on his computer monitors and he activated an autoturret.
---------------------
"Scatter!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted as the turret raked the hall with .50 caliber fire. He then dove behind a concrete pillar.
Dr. Bailey darted into an empty lab.
-
Dr Landon and Aisha drobve into the lab after DR Bailey.. Aisha winced, she had been nicked in the leg...
-
Dr. Zanasiu shot at the turret only to see it ward off the shotgun blast with no damage.
--------------
Dr. Bailey looked around the lab. It was an electronics lab with several computers around. "If I can hack into the system, I can disable the turret and camera." A small cut on his hand was bleeding but he ignored it.
He then booted up one of the computers.
-
Now with Neku alongside, the team crawled back up into the ventilation shafts, heading down the floors and taking routes that did not expose them to the guards. They soon reached the sub-levels, and as Feral kicked open the grate from the ceiling, he and Vic immediately scanned and took out all the cameras and sensors in the area.
Aiko was next out of the shafts. "3rd floor. Everybody out."
"Ssshh!" Dr Joe hissed him quiet.
----------
Ariol watched quietly at Dr Branston's work for control of the anarchy, when he noticed several more camera views go static. The screens were labeled for the sub-levels...
-
Dr. Branston looked at the staticed monitors. "Two squads down to Sublevels. Interference has occurred. " he radioed
"Roger that." the voice called back.
--------------------------
Some where deeper inside the complex, two squads of 7 soldiers of each rushed past, heading to the sublevels. All the soldiers were heavily armored in all black tactical vest and face concealing helmets. Most of them carried shotguns, rifles, SMGs and grenades but some carried sniper rifles and rocket launchers with a countermass system that allowed safe firing inside a confined space.
-
Ariol walked to the control system watching the sub-levels, and waited for the squads to reach the primary entrance to the floor...
----------
With what little light that was available, the team surveyed the halls. The cell doors were sealed shut, very little evidence of anyone within these rooms, but the mere aura around them was unwelcoming...
-
"Anytime now!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted over the gunfire.
--------------
Dr. Bailey had hacked into the system and he disabled the auto turret.
Suddenly, the turret stopped firing and retracted into the ceiling.
He then went over to Aisha. "How's the gash on your leg?"
-
Neku stopped for a moment.
"Hey guys...bad news. We're gonna be having company soon. They noticed our taking out the cams..."
He said, nervously...
_______________________________________________________________________
Kagetora stepped out from where Alfred was, rolling and firing a set of shots to wound the remaining enemies. Cale finished off one with an electric burst, as Akito dropped on the other's head, neatly decapitating him.
-
I'll be okay.. I'll just need .. to stay off it for awhile' Aisha said a grimace limping across the room..
-
Hawkeye stood next to her, offering Aisha his hand.
"Here. Let me help you, then."
He said, in a gentelmanly fashion...
-
Alfred killed the last scientist with a shotgun blast to the torso. He reloaded and looked around. "Thank you. Would it be wise to search this lab or shall we just obliterate it?"
-----------
Dr. Bailey looked at Hawkeye. "Oh and you are? By the way, I disabled the autoturrets in this hallway. The system thinks they ran out of ammo."
-
Thank you Aisha said taking Hawketes hand and leaning against him to relieve weight on the injured leg.. "We need to get this bandaged.."
-
"Then we'll have to take out more than just the cams," Feral replied. "Aiko, hack into the systems controlling this level, but don't do anything with it until I tell you."
Aiko begins to do so with a laptop and a small press pad next to one of the hall doors. "We're gonna lock them out, boss?"
"No. We're going to lock them in..."
"Isn't that a little harsh, Commander?" Dr Joe knew what he was planning.
"We have to get to the ventilation system on the other side of this floor. And I don't think we can handle a battalion every time we round a corner."
"But still, we can't simply let out these dangerous experiments out to keep the extermination squads off us. If the guards don't kill us, the experiments can!"
"Aren't we experiments dangerous?" Snow asked, sadly. "What makes us any better than the ones here?"
"Are we really going to sit here and listen to this?!" Aiko looked from his computer.
"Keep on what you're doing," Vic beat Feral to the line.
"The difference between you two and the ones down here," Dr Joe answered, "is that you both have the capability of understanding when to use your powers. You do it to protect yourself and others. But most of the ones here either do not have the ability to understand or don't care, and use their powers instinctively to kill as they please."
-
Dr. Bailey grabbed the first aid kit from the wall, donned a pair of gloves and rolled up Aisha's pant leg, revealing a long cut in her calf. "Aisha, I'm going to wash this out and bandage it." He then opened the first aid kit and pulled out a bottle of saline wash and some gauze.
-
(OOC - F-22 has dropped out of the RP. I am making his characters public domain. That is anyone can control them so as long as continuity is maintained.)
Zachary then entered the lab.
-----------------------
The autoturret shooting at Hans and Werner retracted into the ceiling.
"Must of ran out of ammo." Werner said.
"We should really attempt to find James and his crew."
With that said, they then headed down the halls.
-
"We're in, boss," Aiko said.
"Good," Feral replied. "Stay together, everyone. This is going to be chaos..."
The team waited for the arrival of the task force...
-
Dr. Bailey finished bandaging Aisha's leg. "There, I've finished bandaging your leg. See if you can stand."
Just then, Hans and Werner arrived in the lab.
"So what's going on?" Werner asked.
"Preparing to assault to control room." Zachary replied.
---------------------------
The two squad leaders met just at the entrance of the sublevels. After opening the door they headed down into the sublevels. Right where Feral and his squad were located.
-
Aisha slowly gt to her feet, wobbling slightly on her bandaged leg. "thanks, for your help..Now II just eed tie so I can let my injuries fully heal.."She said to Dr Bailey.
_ time is something we won't have much of if they send the full force of this base against us" Dr Landon said.
-
Hawkeye nodded.
"I've been noticing a lot of radio chatter recently. It would seem that Neku and the others have been noticed. Two specops teams are on them..."
He said, looking a little worried before turning to Aisha.
"Would you like any assistance, Doctor?"
He asked kindly...
_________________________________________________________________________
Neku nodded to Feral.
"They're getting close..."
He whispered, drawing his beam sword...
-
Dr. Bailey nodded. "This area is relatively safe. I don't hear anything."
------------------------------
Alfred opened a drawer inside the lab he had raided. He retrieved a stack of papers containing nothing but 1s and 0s. "What the hell is this, binary?" He then turned to his allies. "Anyone read binary?"
------------------------------
Outside Pelvanida at the Carson City Camp, two of the veterans of the first Pelvanida attack were chatting.
"Anybody heard of Dr. Rudy Shelton? The control room guy from the first Pelvanida attacks?" the first soldier asked.
"No. Word's on the base is that he got deported to Austria for unspecified reasons." the other soldier replied.
General Moby, who happened to be passing by them, turned towards the two men. "Did you two mention a Dr. Rudy Shelton?"
"Yes sir." the first soldier responded.
"That name seems familiar." General Moby replied.
"With due respect sir, it should be. He's one of the scientists who helped thwart the previous terrorist attack on Pelvanida."
"Then that means he'll prove to be an invaluable asset. I got his contact information through 'unorthodox channels'. I'll contact him."
The two soldiers saluted General Moby as they walked off.
General Moby then retreated to his office where he radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc, I've got great news. I've managed to arrange for an old friend of yours to assist, Doc Shelton. Moby out."
----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu beamed as he received the news. "Good news. General Moby's arranged for Dr. Shelton to come and assist us. Bad news, it could take a while for him to arrive."
Zachary grinned. "Well, he's a master at the control room."
Dr. Bailey grinned as well. "Well, at least I get some assistance."
(OOC - I don't know what country Dr. Shelton was deported to so I'll just say Austria.)
-
(OOC: Fine by me. I don't think it was ever specified. I can't wait to get back in on the action!)
-
Dr. Bailey booted up a computer and he had hacked into the system.
"What are you doing?" Zachary asked.
"Disabling the autoturrets in the control room area." Dr. Bailey responded, bringing up the main security control panel. He then entered another command and validated it with his password. The screen blinked "PASSWORD ACCEPTED" then "AUTOTURRET COMMAND OVERRIDE INITIATED".
Dr. Bailey then shut down the computer. "Done."
"That was fast." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"The autoturrets are designed with an override command that the control room administrator can use in case they malfunctioned and identified Pelvanida personnel as hostiles or something has taken control of the turrets. Activating it causes the turrets to cease functioning and they will not function nor obey the manual aiming system unless one heads to the machinery room and manually resets them using the Pelvanida keycard."
"Well, that's one roadblock out of our way." Werner said.
"Couldn't you have simply disabled all the autoturrets in the base?" Hans asked.
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "Doing that would arouse suspicion. While it is possible for a single segment of autoturrets to malfunction, the entire autoturret system of the base malfunctioning would immediately bring up red flags. And remember, we need to hurry; Dr. Branston could send his guards to manually reset the turrets at anytime."
-
Thank you Hawkeye" Aisha replied ;" just helpme hobble down to a seat, where i can rest.. thanks.."
_ So whats our next move dR Landon asked,...
-
Dr. Bailey helped Aisha into a chair.
"We are preparing to assault the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"We will need two guards here." Dr. Bailey said.
"Hawkeye, we'll need you on the assaulting team." Zachary said.
"I'll stay here." Zachary said.
"As I will too." Dr. Bailey said.
"Sorry Doc Bailey, but we'll need you to help set up the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
" aisha we can't afford for you to stay behind, not in your condition. We're going to get you looked at as soon as we get out of here" DR Landon said "Can you move?"
-
Hawkeye nodded at the directive to join the assault team, then nodded to Dr. Aisha.
"If you would like, I could...carry you with me."
He said, a small blush on the visible parts of his face...
Slash joined them.
"I'd request to be on the assault team, as well."
He said simply...
-
"Excellent! Permission is granted." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Zachary looked at Aisha and Hawkeye. "If you two are coming, then there is no need for me to stay at this lab."
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Indeed, if everyone in this room is coming, it might be dangerous for you to stay. For all we know, those soldiers can be coming right around the corner."
Dr. Bailey looked at his watch. "I don't know how long the turret override will last."
------------------
Alfred had finished destroying the lab. "Well, should we get moving?" He tucked some papers in his pockets.
------------------
Dr. Branston cursed as the autoturrets failed to respond. He radioed the guards to reset the turrets.
-
"Alright" Aisha said ignoring the blush on his face.."But act professional.."
-
"Hawkeye, Slash, Aisha and Dr. Landon, Zach, Hans Werner and I will be heading out first as recon." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Zachary picked up his rifle and followed Dr. Zanasiu out of the lab.
As they passed through the hallways the autoturrets failed to even notice them. Suddenly, Alfred appeared from one of the labs.
"Hey James, I stole some papers from a lab." Alfred said.
"Good. We'll look at them later. Care to help assault the control room?" Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred nodded and readied his shotgun. The group then continued down the hallway to the control room.
-
Aisha sat back and waited for the recon team to return. Once they did,m, they would head out.. and try to make thier way to the control room
-
Kagetora and Agito dropped out of a vent near the group, landing next to them.
"Did you say something about an assault on the Control Room?"
Kagetora asked, checking his sub-machine gun.
Agito spun around.
"Oh, I do hope so. That sounds so very fun!"
He chuckled manically...
-
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "We are assaulting the control room."
"Doesn't seem to be many guards around." Alfred said.
"Which means they could be resetting the turrets!" Dr. Bailey replied.
"He's right. These turrets can shrug off small arms fire and electric based attacks." Zachary said. "Agito, are your powers capable of damaging these armored turrets?"
-
Agito paused for a second.
"They are, yes...But can't cut from far-distance."
He said, eying the ceiling...
-
"We shouldn't need to destroy them as we disabled them via an override command. If we hurry we can make it to the control room before the guards have manually reset them." Dr. Bailey said as they were running towards the control room.
---------------------
Dr. Branston noticed the group heading towards him. He quickly summoned several squads of guards to guard the entrance and he closed the heavy security door leading to the control room. Some of the technicians also drew pistols from under the desks or from their labcoats.
"Sir, we have intercepted a transmission from Carson City camp. It seems they have managed to acquire an additional person." a Goat technician said.
Dr. Branston said nothing but proceeded to jam the frequency that he had intercepted.
-------------------
The guards took cover behind some debris left over from the first attack and waited for the group to arrive.
They spotted Dr. Zanasiu and fired, striking nothing but the ground. Dr. Zanasiu quickly darted behind the wall.
"They're already here!" he shouted.
"I'll get Aisha!" Zachary shouted.
"Go do that!" Dr. Zanasiu then fired a single round, followed by Alfred who also fired a single round. Both the rounds struck the same guard and killed him.
Zachary then ran down the hallway back to the lab. "Aisha, Hawkeye, Dr. Landon, James has encountered several guards outside the control room. His force is outnumbered."
-
As soon as the base's squads entered the sub-levels, Feral looked behind at the rest of the team. Vic and Dr Joe slipped on their infrared glasses. The others could naturally in the dark so they won't need such equipment. He gave a nod to Aiko...
Aiko pressed a button on his pad. The outer doors connecting the sub-level to the rest of the base quickly sealed shut, then the main lights into the halls went out, leaving only the dimly-lit emergency lights on in different areas. And last but not least, every cell door on the level slid open...
----------
The fennec fox experiment's heart pounded louder than before as the only thing keeping him from the rest of the world suddenly opened...
----------
Ariol left the control room again in the opposite direction of where the infiltrators were coming. He was on his cell phone again with his employer. This time, his "posse" is being prepared to be sent over to deal with the growing situation...
-
The first Squad leader, a Grey Wolf cursed as the lights dimmed. "Infrared glasses on!" he barked over the radio. He didn't bother as he could naturally see in low light.
The squad members who could not see as clearly in low light as he could quickly donned their infrared glasses.
"Alpha leader, there appears to be some experiments loose." a squad member radioed.
"Do not antagonize the experiments. Shoot only if they threaten our lives." Alpha leader replied through his headset radio.
The other squad leader, a wiry Human, looked around and he spotted Feral's team. "The doors appear to be closed."
"Try and open them." Alpha leader radioed.
The other squad leader went over to the control pad only to find out that the doors did not respond to his commands.
"No go. The intruders must have hacked the computer. I'll have to blast them." With that said, he removed several shaped charge blocks from his pack and began sticking them to the door, forming the outline of a door in explosive charges.
"Beta leader, Alpha squad will cover while you prepare for demolitions." Alpha leader said. Alpha squad then took defensive positions behind crates and other assorted objects.
As soon as Beta leader finished wiring the door with explosives he heard a scream followed by an eerie howl and several gunshots. He turned around to see a dead Alpha squad member crushed under a crate and a dead cybernetic Falcon with several wires and pipes exposed from several shotgun blasts to the torso.
-
"They've seen us! Flash bangs, now!" Feral commanded.
Several canisters came towards their opponents and explode into thick clouds of smoke throughout the hallway. As soon as Aiko was unplugged from the pad, the team quickly moved to another hallway around the squads towards their primary destination, treading lightly to watch out for the torment experiments being caged down here.
After some brief pauses from within the cells, the many experiments soon began to emerge...
-
The squads were quickly stunned by the noise of the flashbangs but they quickly recovered from it. Luckily, the helmets had electrically controlled viewplates underneath the ballistic visor that automatically darkened to prevent excess light from reaching the troopers' eyes, saving them from being blinded.
"Oh, holy [censored]!" an alpha soldier shouted as several of the experiments began to emerge.
"Run!" Beta leader shouted. He then ran through the destroyed doors followed by his squad.
Alpha leader fired at the oncoming experiments. "Beta leader, take your squad and chase the infiltrators! Alpha squad will hold them off!"
Several alpha soldiers threw grenades and fired at the oncoming experiments. One soldier was torn in half by psionic blade while a cyber experiment received a high explosive rocket that blew a large hole in its metallic torso but it still kept coming.
Beta leader nodded and ran down the hallways, his squad following. "They must be heading towards the fusion reactor!"
"Sir, the experiments!" a beta soldier shouted.
"Ignore them. Our focus is those infiltrators." He was barely able to see Dr. Joe and he fired off a quick burst, striking nothing but a wall near her.
-
Vic pulled Dr Joe ahead of him as he and Feral now took the rear, both pausing often to spray gunfire against the unit members. Aiko had to gun down an insect-like experiment that charged him.
"The way they come at us that quickly," Vic stated as he started running, "they must have eye protection."
"Which means they'll probably have heat-vision as well," Feral followed. "Smoke canisters won't work. How far are we?!"
"150 feet and closing! Hallyway's going to narrow before we're there!" Aiko answered.
"We gotta take these bastards out now if we can get to the reactor! Vic, keep suppressing them with fire!" As Feral was still moving, he took his backpack off to dig into a set of parts...
----------
His sensitive ears could easily pick up the sounds of screaming, and gunfire throughout the "outside world," paralyzing him even further with fear...
-
Some of the soldiers fell to the hail of gunfire but the heavy armor saved most of them.
One Alpha soldier fired a rocket at a large cybernetic Ostrich with a heavy machine gun fused to his right arm. The machine gun clicked empty; fortunately, the scientists had the foresight not to load the weapon nor allow him access to ammunition.
The rocket crashed into the Ostrich's left arm, which bore a heavy machete-like blade, tearing it off. Two quick shotgun blasts by from Alpha leader decapitated the Ostrich.
-----------------
Beta leader gunned down a Poodle experiment that seemingly appeared out of thin air with a burst of his SMG.
A Beta soldier loaded his rocket launcher with a new cartridge and fired in the direction of Feral's squad.
-
"Incoming!" Vic shouted.
Almost everyone in the team ducked for cover, except for Snow, whom instinctively turned and fired a concentrated ball of white fire at the rocket. Both projectiles exploded with extreme energy, and the former experiment was knocked back far from the shock wave...
----------
A deafening roar of an explosion caused X-278 to shield himself from the burst of light emanating from outside the doorway...
-
"Keep shooting! We're almost there." Beta leader shouted. He switched magazines for his SMG and continued firing at the group.
A Beta soldier shot a Wolf surrounded by an eerie green glow. The Wolf deflected the bullets into the ceiling but he could not react fast enough to avoid a shotgun blast from another Beta soldier. The Wolf crumpled to the floor.
------------------------
Alfred, Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary continued shooting at the guards. They had killed many of them but more were still coming.
"Anytime now, Aisha." Alfred muttered, crouching behind a crate to reload.
Dr. Bailey was ducked behind a crate, seemingly oblivious to the weapons fire.
----------------------
Dr. Branston cursed as he saw the infiltrators near the fusion core. He sighed and activated the autoturrets in the fusion core area.
----------------------
The turrets descended from armored hatches and took several seconds to switch to infrared targeting.
-
Neku saw Snow get thrown back, and he leapt into the air, catching her and turning to the soldiers.
"Hey! All you experiments! We're not going anywhere unless we team up to stop these guys! Whatd'ya say? How about we take these guys down?!"
He yelled, and almost all of the experiments let out a cheer, turning to face the soldiers coming at them. Neku himself leapt up, throwing his sword at one of the squad members as he launched an electric shot at another...
________________________________________________________________________
Hawkeye leaned out from cover, firing a shot at an oncoming soldier, stopping him dead.
"At this rate...we'll be overrun in approximately 6.3 minutes!"
He said worriedly, then turned back to Aisha.
"Is there anything I can do to assist?"
He asked.
Kagetora threw a small charge down the hall, incinerating a group of oncoming enemies, before opening fire with his machine gun again...
Cale threw another glass shard into the enemy ranks, lighting arcing around his hands.
"Damn! How many are there?"
He asked, irked...
Agito popped out of his hiding spot, slicing a soldier's head off, before ducking back into the ceiling...
-
"Keep firing!" Beta leader shouted. He gunned down a gold Lion experiment who tried to grab him.
A Beta soldier was killed by the electric bolt but another Beta soldier, diving behind a crate, barely dodged the thrown sword.
Two Beta soldiers fired rockets at the oncoming experiments, while Alpha leader threw a grenade in Neku's direction.
The autoturrets were able to take aim at the infiltrators and they opened fire.
-----------------------------------------------
A mechanical whirring sound was heard as the armored autoturrets lowered from the ceiling and began shooting.
"I thought you said that they'd be disabled!" Zachary shouted, popping out from cover to fire a short burst that killed a guard.
Alfred and Dr. Zanasiu stood up to shoot two different soldiers then duck back down before the turrets could shoot them.
Dr. Bailey was ducked behind the crate frantically working on the computer. "Come on... Ah yes! Let's rock and roll!"
Werner stood up to shoot a guard when the autoturrets suddenly turned around and began shooting at the guards, mowing down several of them in a hail of .50 caliber bullets. One of the soldiers managed to destroy a turret with a well aimed rocket. He loaded a new cartridge into the rocket launcher but before he could fire, Alfred shot him in the head.
---------------------
Dr. Branston stared at the computer screen in horror. "What the!? That bastard! He must have hacked the control system" He tried to disable the turrets to no avail.
-
Just keep fitring!" aisha cried, dropping to her knee and opening fire. " We can't let then ovberrun us! don't stop! no matter what!"
-
Snow was slightly dazed when Neku caught her, but she fully came to as Dr Joe ran to her side.
"You alright?!" Dr Joe asked.
"I think I am..."
The ladies took cover as Vic continued to fire at the enemy soldiers, now more careful not to hit the experiments. But now a system of gun turrets made their trip much more problematic.
"Shut down those damned turrets!!" Feral shouted as he seemed to modify his gun...
"The closest panel is in the open!" Aiko answered back. "I need lots of cover!"
"Snow! Doc! Vic! Distract those guns as long as possible if you can't take them out!"
Dr Joe drew her sidearm as she fired at the closest gun turret, her position now drawing its fire. Snow ducked to another crate to get a better aim at the turret, and sent out a wave of fire at it...
-
"Keep shooting!" Zachary shouted, swapping out an empty magazine.
Alfred reloaded and kept firing. He noticed that the guards were gradually thinning out. "We're pushing them back!"
Dr. Zanasiu said nothing but continued shooting.
Werner and Hans also kept up a steady stream of fire.
"There appears to be a blast door at the end! We'll need someway to breach it!" Werner shouted over the gunfire.
"That's where I come in." Dr. Bailey said. "I can force the doors to open, but I'll do that only once we kill all the guards outside."
"Also there may be guards inside and we can't discount the fact that the technicians inside may be armed." Dr. Zanasiu said, reloading.
Alfred stood up and shot a guard twice in the chest. He then ducked back down to avoid a shotgun blast.
------------------
Snow's blast of fire melted the turret's bearings, disabling it.
A nearby turret took aim at Snow and began firing.
The turret that Dr. Joe shot was unaffected by the heavy pistol rounds but it immediately took aim at Dr. Joe and began firing.
-
Aisha took out one of the last guards with a well-placed shot.. " we're nearly there.. once the last guard is done we make a run for the door1"
-
Neku saw the grenade as it was thrown at him, and he used his kinesis to stop it, flinging it back into a group of Beta squad troops. Behind him, a shadowy bat experiment unleashed a sonic wave to disable an autoturret, the shockwave cleanly tearing it from the ceiling.
"Here! Neku, try this out for size!"
The bat chuckled, as the turret fell, and Neku caught it, firing it to disable the turret aimed at Dr. Joe. But as he did so, a pair of shots caught him off guard, one lancing through his chest and the second, a shotgun blast, tearing off his left arm...
-
(OOC - I'm confused who's injured. The Bat or Neku?)
The grenade killed most of Beta Squad but the remaining troopers still continued shooting.
A pale gold Iguana fired a bolt of molten metal at the last Alpha trooper, burning through his heavy armor and killing him.
Alpha leader swore and opened fire with his SMG, riddling the Iguana with bullets.
The Iguana turned around and converted all the spent shell casings near him into a large bolt of molten metal which he fired at Alpha leader. He then crumpled to the ground.
Alpha leader dove out of the way of the bolt of molten metal, only to dive right into the path of an autoturret's stream of deadly .50 caliber bullets. The bullets tore through his armor and killed him.
"Idiot." Beta leader muttered. He motioned for his last two men, both armed with rockets to fire at Feral and his squad.
As the rockets were fired both men placed their now useless launchers aside and readied SMGs.
"We're Dragonstorm's last bastion." Beta leader said. Even though that wasn't exactly true.
-
(Neku got hurt. The bat's fine. You'll see why. :p )
Neku staggered, but with a force of will managed to stay upright long enough to stop the missiles and weakly fling them towards the soldiers, barely making it halfway across the distance before passing out, blood coating his chest and dripping from the stump where his arm had been...
-
The soldiers quickly dove out of the way of the rockets, which exploded, showering the area with shrapnel but not really harming the soldiers thanks to the fact that the troopers had taken cover behind some crates.
One of the Beta troopers took aim at the Bat and let loose a short burst with his SMG.
Beta leader was struck by one of the discarded launchers, which a wiry Human had telekinetically shot at him. His armor protected him but the blow was powerful enough to stagger him and break several ribs. He got up but the launcher struck him in the head, knocking him down. By sheer willpower, he was able to remain conscious and shoot the Human several times, severely wounding him. Another telekinetically thrown piece of metal knocked him unconscious.
-
The bat chuckled a little to himself, then unleashed a sonic burst, stopping the bullets with a wall of concussive force...
-
Vic sprang up to fire at the remaining soldiers as he ran to Neku. Aiko saw this and laid down cover fire for them as the human soldier dragged Neku behind another crate. Snow, whom has ducked just as the turret had fired on her, saw what happened to Neku and rushed to his side. Vic is getting set to work on Neku's injuries with his medical talents...
Feral had finished his work in time. His main gun was modified to fire larger rounds, some of which contained high explosive shells. Mainly meant for anti-armor, the commander felt it best for this situation. Getting into position, he aimed for the remaining soldiers and fired...
-
The burt at of explosive shells killed the last two Beta troopers, their heavy armor being no use against the direct impact of the explosive shells.
---------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred's shotguns both clicked empty and Zachary and killed two of the soldiers with his last magazine.
"Kagetora, Agito, Slash, everyone, it's up to you." Alfred said, putting his empty shotgun on the ground.
"Once the last guards are dead, we'll reload and then we'll take the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
Aisha put in a fresh round, and stumbled to her feet. " Once you guys give the al-clear.. we'll follow you.."
-
"Tangos down!" Feral shouted. "Are we clear!?"
"Negative!" was Aiko's response. "Two more of those turrets!"
"Neku's been hit hard!" Vic called in. "I'm trying to stabilize him now!"
"Keep on it!" Feral replied. "Aiko, make sure that this level remains cut off!" He re-aims at the remaining turrets and fires at the nearest one...
Dr Joe reloads her handgun as she stays covered behind her crate...
Snow was nearly in tears as she tries to reawaken Neku...
-
"I'm going to get more ammo, cover me." Alfred said.
---------------------
The turret's heavy armor was no match for the explosive tipped rounds and the turret exploded in a hail of shrapnel.
-
Aisha kept up a stream of fire, providing cover for her friend to reload. " Better hurry up Alfred, I'm starting to run low" aisha said, keeping up her rate of fire..
-
Alfred picked up his shotgun and dashed back to a nearby guard post. He entered and grabbed a box of shotgun shells and hastily reloaded as well as shoving the extra shells in his pockets. He also grabbed two magazines for Aisha's pistol.
"Aisha, take these!" Alfred said, sliding the two magazines to her.
He rolled several shells back to Dr. Zanasiu who picked them up and reloaded.
Alfred the fired on a guard trying to throw a grenade, killing him.
-
Aisha grabbed her rounds and quickly reloaded.. " Thanks alfred ! I owe you a big dinner!" she grinned"once we get out of here that is.."
-
Alfred grinned. "Not sure if I can even think about food now!" He took shot two other guards.
Dr. Zanasiu reloaded but before he could shoot the last guard, a burst of autoturret fire killed the guard.
"That's the last of them." Zachary said.
Dr. Bailey was working on the computer. "Give me a few minutes and I can override Branston's commands and force the door open."
----------------------------
Dr. Bailey cursed as he saw the guards outside dying. He grabbed a Sig-Saeur P-226 pistol and ran into the closet. There, he turned the hot and cold water faucets in the sink in a certain pattern. A hidden elevator rose from a large portion of the floor and he stepped into it. The elevator then sank into the floor with no trace of it ever having been present.
-
As soon as the enemies were dead, the bat ran over to Neku's side.
"N-Neku! Are you okay? Please...say something! Anything!"
He said, panic evident in his voice as he knelt...
-
"Done!" Dr. Bailey declared, typing in the last line.
The heavy steel doors groaned as they slid open.
"Odd, there's no one..." Dr. Zanasiu's words were cut short by a burst of pistol fire that narrowly missed his head.
He, Alfred and Zachary returned fire with the armed technicians, killing a few.
"Be careful! Though the computer casings are capable of withstanding moderate small arms fire, sustained fire will destroy them." Dr. Bailey shouted over the gunfire.
-
Far away and to the left, Pelvanida Base finally came into view for the two occupants of a military-grade helicopter.
"The base is in sight, Dr. Shelton," reported the pilot to the man next to him.
No answer. The pilot looked over. "Dr. Shelton?"
Shelton was snoring loudly in his seat, head tilted awkwardly to his side. The pilot shook him. "Dr. Shelton. You need to wake up, sir."
"Mmmrhuh?" Shelton blinked, and stretched. " 'Sup?"
"Pelvanida Base is in sight. You need to get ready for your aerial dropoff." The pilot focused on flying. "And you probably could use some caffeine too."
Shelton yawned. "Well, excuse me, after a 13 hour flight with no in-flight movie or salted peanuts? How much were they paying me again to do this?"
"Uh, nothing."
"Just checking. See if it changed since I last asked." Shelton peered down at the base. "Holy crap, how close are we?"
"Just getting in position for the aerial dropoff," the pilot steadied the copter.
"Um, I think we're way too close! You need to pull up!"
"Hey, I'm the pilot here!"
"And I used to work there! And they can totally hit us from this distance!"
-
A Boar technician spotted the helo on radar. "We've got party crashers! Altitude, about 90 meters. Range, about 100 meters!"
Two Human techicians returned Zachary's fire for a short moment before Alfred and Dr. Zanasiu killed them.
A Wolf technician in the back of the room locked onto the helo and ordered the perimoter defense turrets to open fire on it. He also radioed a squad of soldiers to be on standby near the entrance.
----------------------------
Outside Pelvanida, several of the .50 caliber Gatling guns roared to life as they shot at Shelton's helicopter, 100 meters away. API rounds streaked across the Nevandan sky in a deadly hail.
(OOC- API = armor piercing incendiary.)
-
"Jesus!" yelled the pilot, jerking the cyclic. Gunfire shredded the tail, shattered the windshield, and sent the copter spinning.
Shelton covered his head and cowered in his seat as the helicopter pinwheeled towards the roof of the base. Gunfire punched holes in the copter's frame.
The pilot pumped the pedals and pulled back on the collective lever. "I can slow our descent, but we're going to crash!"
(OOC: Should the copter land on the roof? I'd prefer that, but is it realistic for the roof to survive a copter crashing into it?)
-
Within minutes, Vic has patched up Neku's stump and other injuries, but the experiment is far from out of danger. He began work on an IV setup to put some blood back into him. He took a sample of Neku's blood and began to pinpoint his blood type. Hopefully a donor is in the vicinity...
Dr Joe knew what Vic is doing, and soon fiddles into her own computer and pulls up a database of all the base's regular experiments and those that reside in the sub-levels. Luckily, everyone is labeled with a blood type...
----------
Ariol was back outside when he hears gunfire from the base homing in on another intruder. This was not going to be a good night...
-
(OOC - Pelvanida base is mostly underground and it is established that the buildings are basically bunkers but I don't think the roof can survive a helo crash without severe damage. In fact, that could actually be used; the helo can crash into a computer lab near the control room, actually breaching the lab, and the group would hear it.)
--------------------------------
The soldiers outside Pelvanida watched as the turrets shot down the helicopter. They were standing near Alfred's wrecked truck.
"Hey wait! We'll have to head inside! It's gonna crash into the complex!" a Bear soldier shouted.
The team leader, a wiry Golden Retriever, nodded and ordered her squad inside.
--------------------------------
The Boar technician grinned momentarily as he watched the helicopter getting shot down. His grin quickly turned to horror as he watched the helo spiral towards the complex. He quickly radioed the squad leader.
"Delta squad! Helo crash is imminent near lab 428! Repeat helo crash imminent near lab 428!"
A bullet whizzed by his head. He drew his pistol and shot at Aisha, but Alfred quickly killed him with a load of buckshot to the head. The console was destroyed by Alfred's shotgun blast as well.
Soon, most of the technicians fled except for a few who took cover behind steel tables.
-
Ariol calmly jogged away from where the helicopter was expected to fall. "I need a team to converge on the chopper as soon as it crashes!" he picked up a radio from a dead soldier. "I want no survivors to escape! And get some troops back up in the damned control towers! Reinforcements will need all the cover they can get!"
-
Without further ado, the helicopter crashed into the roof of Pelvanida. The rotor, the tail section, the runners; everything got ripped off, with the cockpit being the only thing that didn't become instant twisted metal. And that includes the roof.
Smoke and fire flooded the adjacent labs, drowning out the sound of one man coughing, trying to extricate himself from the blackened wreckage.
-
The base's CO2 fire extinguishing system quickly put out the fires in the adjacent labs. Luckily, the scientists in the lab were on break.
--------------------
Dr. Branston was sitting inside the secret control room when he radioed Ariol. "Ariol, Delta squad is heading to the helo crash site, which appears to be in the vicinity of lab 428."
He then radioed Delta leader. "Delta leader, there is substantial smoke infiltration in that area as well as low O2 levels."
--------------------
Meanwhile, Delta leader had carefully routed her squad around the control room and waited a safe distance from lab 428. They had stopped by an emergency station to grab airpacks.
"Remember," she said, her voice muffled by the mask "we are to capture whoever is inside the helo. We kill only if they resist."
Two other gasmask clad squad members readied net launchers, which fired a net made from a high tensile strength polymer.
Delta leader pulled out a Taser from a hip holster. Across her back was an SMG.
Delta leader and her squad entered lab 428. The lab was in shambles and a wrecked helicopter was in the middle of the room. Dusky light illuminated the room.
She spotted Shelton in the wreckage and aimed her Taser at him. "You. Stop moving and come with us."
-
the sounds odf the the helicopter crash reached Aisha " Er guys, were we expecting any back-up? Because that sounded like a plane crash!"
-
"Good. I'll remain on the outside awaiting my 'clean up' to arrive..." Ariol responded. He clipped the radio on him and now waits quietly by the helipad..."
-
"Good god, I'm not dead. I think I just became religious," sighed Shelton, after checking himself and realizing he was covered only in minor scrapes and scratches.
He was slightly less enthused when his "rescuers" came for him. "I'm stuck!" he said, trying to free his legs from the space under the seat. "I can't move or come with you!"
-
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Yes... And that was Dr. Shelton!" He shot a technician who took aim at Alfred.
Alfred reloaded and killed the last technician. "Okay, we're clear!"
Dr. Bailey picked up his laptop and darted into the control room. He plugged it into a nearby outlet and placed it on a table while he grabbed a chair and pulled up next to one of the control panels.
He entered a few commands and examined the windows that popped up. "Okay, it appears that a helicopter was shot down and the crash appears to have been in lab 428-the computer lab. There appear to be several life signs but the crash wrecked the cameras so I can't see anything. Best bet is to check it out but be careful, O2 levels are low and there is smoke. There are some airpacks here. You'll need them."
"Will do." Zachary said. He then turned to Hans and Werner. "Hans, Werner, guard Bailey."
Hans and Werner, with their weapons at the ready, stood by Dr. Bailey.
"So who's coming?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
--------------------------------
Delta leader sighed. "Cut him free." she ordered.
Two of her soldiers returned with a pair of bolt cutters and an ax. They quickly cut Shelton loose.
Delta leader then aimed her Taser at Shelton. "Will you come with us willingly or do we have to Tase you?"
-
Shelton almost said, "Don't tase me, bro!" but decided this woman was not a person to mess around with. "Willingly! Definitely willingly!" he exclaimed, raising his hands in the air.
-
Delta leader radioed Dr. Branston. "Branston, we have caught the intruder."
She then marched Shelton out of the wrecked lab.
-------------------
Dr. Branston nodded as he listened to Delta leader. He then radioed Ariol.
"Ariol, the interloper has been captured." Dr. Branston said via radio.
-
Dr Landon, and Aisha made thier move, dfollowing the others into the control room"I'm coming with" Aisha voluntered" My leg is feeling better now.."
-
"That's one small fish caught," Ariol answered Dr Branston's message. "What's the good word on everything else inside?"
----------
Vic and Dr Joe compared notes on Neku's matching blood types, and a list of donors came up on Dr Joe's pad. "We have Snow on our list."
"Good," Vic replied as he dug back into his equipment. "But we still need a few more donors. Neku lost a lot of blood"
As Snow moved closer to get ready to donate some of her blood, Dr Joe fished through the list and a picture of the bat experiment came up. "X-194? Sorry, this list doesn't show another name if you have one."
-
"I believe the control room has been breached but it is irrelevant. The area we are in is a totally separate entity from the main base. In fact, we can use that to our advantage, let our enemies get overconfident and they'll pay dearly for it." Dr. Branston replied.
---------------------
Zachary, Alfred and Dr. Zanasiu reloaded all their weapons.
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, we are going to inspect lab 428. We'll need to take oxygen tanks as the lab is very smoky." Dr. Zanasiu said.
As he spoke, Zachary and Alfred grabbed some oxygen tanks from a nearby cabinet and slung them over their backs.
-
The bat smiled.
"You can call me Shade."
He said, smiling a little.
"And yeah, I'll be more than willing to give some blood to keep Neku alive."
He added...
-
Alfred handed two oxygen tanks with masks to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "We're heading out now." His mask was dangling from his neck.
Dr. Zanasiu adjusted his mask then took it off. "That helicopter may have been carrying Dr. Shelton and he may have been captured or injured."
-------------------
Delta leader marched Shelton to an empty but clean electronics lab where she handcuffed him to a heavy chair.
"Okay, first things first, what is your name?" Delta leader asked, a frown spreading across her canine features.
-
"Can I plead the fifth?" Shelton asked nervously, examining the handcuff.
(OOC: Feel free to torture Shelton, just don't do any permanent damage or bone breaking.)
-
"This is not a civilian court. You can't plead anything. What is your name?" Delta leader repeated. She pulled out her Taser and removed the cartridge and sent a electric arc crackling between the two electrodes and shoved it under Shelton's nose.
-
"Auuggh! Shelton! Rudyard Shelton!" he cried, jerking back, yet finding the chair fixed to the floor.
-
Delta leader grinned. "Very good. Mr. Shelton. Okay, what is your purpose in being here? I'm sure that you weren't some lost tourist as there's nothing to see here." She pulled the Taser back.
-
"I don't know, I got a call from somebody telling me that some friends of mine were in trouble at Pelvanida, and wouldn't I want to help my friends out?" Shelton babbled incoherently, staring at the taser, "I wanted safe passage back to America so I agreed, and the pilot crashed us into the base!" He stopped suddenly. "I really shouldn't be telling you any of this, should I?"
-
"Hmm. I'd assume your friends were the same ones who killed several guards, shot up the front of the base and broke into the complex? Sorry, I can't let you help some terrorists." Delta leader replied in an almost bored tone. She then suddenly grinned. "But your information is appreciated."
-
"Shade it is, then," Dr Joe replied.
Vic had hooked Snow up and slowly drew some blood to Neku, both were anxiously watching him for a response.
Feral keeps a sharp eye down the hall as he waits, while Aiko is busy breaking back into the computer.
----------
X-278 listened intently to the goings on outside the cell. The war has died, but now filling the air with talking...
----------
"Don't get too cocky, Doc," Ariol replied. "You mentioned all that before they made it this far into the base. I wouldn't be calling in favors if I had more confidence in what you say. At this point, Dragonstorm will have to be moved while we still have control of the base. Try to get in contact with the other scientists to prepare to move their projects. I had the honor of talking with our good employer, and he has some new bases in the ready."
(OOC: Good idea to have a deadline for the heroes? If there's a desire for another sequel, we could have some of the Dragonstorm projects slip away, and the team will have to seek out these new bases.)
-
Neku stirred, his eyes fluttering open weakly.
"Heh...Sorry to be such a pain, guys. Guess I should have been more careful, huh?"
He asked, trying to joke despite his present situation.
(OOC: Another sequel sounds good!)
-
"Understood." Dr. Branston replied. "however, I do have a last ditch plan if things get ugly. I'll show it to you."
He then got up and lead Ariol to a large room where an enormous gray cylinder, which was roughly the same size as 2 semi-trucks lay in the middle of the room. Multiple wires protruded from the cylinder and led to an armored box the size of an ATV.
"This is my last ditch plan; a 50 kiloton pure fusion bomb triggered by an explosively pumped flux compression generator. This bomb can obliterate all of Pelvanida and a good portion surrounding it if detonated. It takes two people to trigger this bomb and it detonates 30 minutes after both detonators are pressed. I have one of them; Dr. Johnson Zenarchis has the other." Dr. Branston explained. "So Ariol, what do you think?"
---------------------------
"Well, I'm done with you." Delta leader said to Shelton. "See you."
She then lead her squad out of the room and then she quickly jammed the door by locking it and destroying the electronic lock with a short burst of SMG fire.
-
Shelton whacked the wall with his fist. "Dammit!" he swore. "Here I come to help my friends out, and all I do is spill the beans to the first dog with a taser!"
Sliding the handcuff as far down the chair as he could, he felt the chair legs where they touched the ground. Tight screws kept the chair screwed firmly to the floor.
"All right, think..." he muttered. "I need someway to get these screws out..."
-
Ariol scratched his chin as he looked, then nodded. "Until now, I thought you were just another lab suit without true ingenuity. I like it. Just keep it as the last resort. The boys upstairs paid too much for all of this to go kablooey." His cell phone went off and he answered...
----------
Snow's eyes welled up with tears as Neku woke up, and reached across to hold his remaining claw in hers.
"Welcome back," Vic said, watching the blood transfer. "And yes, a little more caution goes a long way. We're almost ready to change donors. Ready, Shade?"
-
Shelton fished a quarter out of his pocket, and used it to unscrew the legs of the chair. Bunny-hopping over to the lab table, he reviewed the items laying on the table. "Now, how to get out of a pair of handcuffs..." he thought to himself.
-
"Ariol, have you disposed of the interlopers yet?" the voice on the phone replied. "We cannot afford further delays in movement or we risk public exposure."
Dr. Branston looked lovingly at the fusion bomb. "Don't worry, I promised Dr. Zenarchis only to use it only as a last resort."
As he spoke, two scientists in a powered robotic exoskeleton passed by; between them, they were carrying a large silver cylinder with wires and pipes protruding from it.
-
"As soon as my 'special' crew arrive, boss," Ariol replied calmly. "Then these gnats are as good as dead." He hung up immediately and started walking back the way he came, looking back once at Dr Branston before moving on. "And they said I was disturbed..." he muttered to himself...
-
First, he needed his handcuffs in front of him, not behind him.
This is gonna hurt, he thought wistfully to himself, tipping his chair backwards. He winced as his back crashed into the ground. Curse my relative tallness!
But from here, he could shimmy his legs and torso between his arms and end up with the chair (and handcuffs) in front of him. Coming to a standing-crouch, Shelton dragged the chair up and over to the table.
Some sort of experiment sat on the table. He didn't care what it was. Delivering it an awkward kick, he sent the materials scattering over the floor. Picking up a snapped wire, he released the latch on his handcuffs.
"Damn, I feel like MacGyver," Shelton muttered to himself, in awe at how far he'd gotten.
Other than the thin wire, the only surviving useful piece of the device was a small propane tank. Shelton pocketed it and turned to the door.
The guard had destroyed the lock, but the door could still be opened if he could stimulate the wires in the wall that led to the door lock. Shelton remembered where the lock was on the other side. He needed to burn through the wall, and it would be thinnest and weakest where the lock used to be.
Using the thin wires to pick the keyholes, he raided the cupboards, and used a battery and steel wool to light a fire, which he used with the propane burner to heat up the thin section of wall. When it was hot enough, he punched through with an aspirator.
Reaching through with his hand, he found the damaged ends of burnt wires. Using a rubber glove, he felt which wire seemed to come from where. He needed to stimulate the right one. Once he was sure he had it, he built up static electricity and touched the wire with the end of a sliver of metal. The spark shot though the metal and stimulated the door lock. The door slid open.
The hallway was deserted. Shelton waited for the security camera to look the other way, then darted into the next lab.
-
(OOC - The guard destroyed the lock before she left.)
(OOC - Nick, my characters are sort of stuck.)
Dr. Branston left the so called "bomb bunker" and headed back up to the surface via a secret passage in the male's bathroom closet, which closed behind him. He emerged from the closet, went into the stall and flushed the toilet and immediately walked out and washed his hands. A janitor mopping the floor glanced at him but otherwise ignored him.
-
There were two scientists in the lab. They looked up when Shelton entered the room.
"Get out!" yelled Shelton, appearing to be out of breath. "Get as far away from this part of the base as possible!"
The scientists took one look at his disheveled appearance and high-tailed it. Shelton locked the door behind them and checked the computer. Not logged in. They had been playing tetris.
Dammit, he thought to himself. That wouldn't happen if I were still control admin.
Unlike door locks, computers were connected to a main database, and the heads would be notified if a scientist logged in somehwere he wasn't supposed to be. Shelton couldn't use someone else's password because he didn't know who belonged in this section.
All right, no problem, he thought to himself, looking at the side door. Next lab, then.
-
Dr. Yuri Kerzach sighed as he replaced the cooling system on his prototype vehicle mounted laser.
I hope no one recognizes me. He thought as he disassembled the laser cannon. He held up his ID which read Dr. Steven Irving.
He had decided to seal his door and ignore the warning. "Hmm. Maybe it's James's crew breaking in. Nah." he muttered.
-
Shelton moved through three labs, until he reached the Electrical Engineering section. Good, he thought to himself. Dr. Kyle worked here.
Using Dr. Kyle's password, Shelton activated one of the computers and downloaded a map of the base. He printed it out.
Massive changes had been made to the layout after the base's reconstruction. The first thing he noticed was the blast wall, which curiously come down at an angle to the base, rather than cutting it exactly in half like they use to.
Why would the blast walls be put in like that? he wondered.
He noticed that due to the angle, the walls protect one extra lab. A lab which, he was pretty sure, didn't exist last time.
Looks like a place to check out.
Shelton had a clear shot from here to the new lab, if he took the emergency corridors. He quickly got moving.
-
Dr. Kerzach heard noises outside his lab. "Hmm. I'd better check it out. But what if it's terrorists?" He shook his head. "Bah! I took on terrorists last time and won."
He then grabbed a nearby portable radio and the nearest thing he could wield as a weapon, which happened to be his switchblade-like pocket knife.
Sealing the door behind him, he started wandering the halls. He entered and exited three labs and noticed that there was recent activity in all of them.
He then entered one of the emergency corridors, at the same time, he had his knife out in front of himself.
-
(OOC: Just read your post about the door lock, and found another way out. Probably some bad science in there, so sue me. I need to get him out of the room.)
Shelton continued on his way. He saw someone coming his way.
He looked both ways. There was nowhere to hide. And they'd definitely seen him by now.
He checked his inventory. An aspirator, a quarter, a propane tank, and a map. Nothing that readily came to mind as a weapon.
Guess it was time to pretend he was an authorized and respectable employee. Putting on his best poker face, he strode towards his opponent. "Hello? Who's there?"
-
"Hmm. That sounds like Shelton." Dr. Kerzach muttered. He was crouching behind a concrete pillar. He peeked out and noticed the man was unarmed.
He then revealed himself. "I am Dr. Steven Irving. What business do you have down here?" he asked. His knife was in plain view.
-
Steven Irving? Name's not ringing a bell.
"Well, Mr. Irving, not sure if you noticed, but some former Pelvanida employees are attacking the base, and I'm just trying to get to safety." He suddenly realized something. "And I know they're former Pelvanida employees because...uh...er....GET BACK!!!" he yelled, brandishing the propane tank.
-
"A propane tank?" Dr. Kerzach asked with a chuckle. "Wow, Shelton, you haven't changed much. You really need to choose better weapons."
-
"Oh, Kerzach, thank god it's you," Shelton wiped his brow. "I haven't really had much to choose from. I just escaped this room after getting tortured by Miss Cujo. What's happened to you?"
-
"I stole someone's identity and got a job here. I got a little curious after finding out about Dragonstorm during the last situation. I plan to find out more. As for Shannon Varma, I heard she assumed a new identity and is working in a Vegas strip club." Dr. Kerzach replied.
-
"You can come with me if you like," said Shelton, showing him the map. "I'm planning on checking out this new lab. The base seems to have rebuilt just to fit it in, so I'm assuming it's important."
(OOC: I'm planning on having this be the new Dragonstorm embryo hatching/priming site, unless we've established it's somewhere else already. It was going to be guarded by a Dragonstorm experiment, which Shelton plus or minus Kerzach would have to outwit rather than outfight to get past. Is this okay?)
-
"Why not?" Dr. Kerzach said. "It'll give me something to do."
---------------------
Meanwhile, Dr. Zanasiu and his group had arrived outside the helicopter crash site.
Alfred and Dr. Zanasiu quickly donned their masks before they entered the ruined lab.
"I don't see any survivors." Alfred said.
"Keep looking." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
-
"Cool," said Shelton. "At least one of us is armed now." He pointed down the hallway. "It's two corridors in the direction."
While they were hiking, Shelton asked, "Is there anything else you know about Pelvanida that I should be aware of? What's gone on since I was deported?"
-
"Quite a bit actually, They fixed all the damage. They upgraded autoturrets to .50 caliber. I heard they were building some new labs but for an unknown purpose. They upgraded security around the fusion reactor. And one thing that's really trivial but you may want to know, they've hired a bunch of new researchers and guards to replace the dead ones. I met one of them, Dr. Dyson Holmes. Works in the metallurgy department. Nice guy, but he's a bit hard to get to; he's almost never around. And one weird thing, I saw Hicks and Montgomery at the Double Helix. Oh, James and his crew have become somewhat of local legends." Dr. Kerzach replied.
-
"Really?" Shelton's eyes went wide. "Am I a local legend?"
-
Dr. Kerzach nodded. "Unfortunately, James's crew along with you are well known in the same sense that Bin Laden is." He then dropped his voice to a whisper. "Which I why I had to steal my coworker's identity to get a job here. I had to pay him a decent amount of cash. Hopefully, Rara Terra Smelting won't mind the fact that I just 'vanished' for a few days."
-
"Who?" Shelton peered down the corridor. "We're here."
A sign on the corner up ahead pointed to the left reading: Lab 101.
"Hmm. Let's check it--" Shelton turned the corner, and froze.
The hallway suddenly got very, very large, and a hulking Dragonstorm experiment stood in front of the doorway. It was coated in plates of armor, and when it saw Shelton giant claws extended from it's hands.
Shelton dove across the hallway into the adjacent lab, seconds ahead of the charging experiment. Slamming the door locks, he felt the entire lab shake as the experiment started beating the wall down.
"Dammit, dammit, dammit..." he repeated, pulling out drawers frantically. Nothing. All he had was what was in his possession now.
Cracks started appearing in the wall. The foundation was coming apart. Shelton had no chance of defeating it, but maybe he could distract it...
He released the valve on the propane tank and threw it through a hole in the wall, further down the hallway. Then he relit the battery with the steel wool, and threw it after the propane tank. The two ignited to form a momentary fireball.
The experiment lunged at the fireball, slashing the remains of the propane tank. Shelton took the opportunity to barrel in the other direction, into Lab 101.
-
Vic had unhooked Snow from the blood transfer and now needled Shade for the blood transfusion. Snow moved to Neku's other side to hold his hand.
Dr Joe read's Shade's full bio and scratches her head. "I don't get it. It says here that you ended up down here because of some 'scientific anomalies' that made you a danger to your doctor's projects. Is that true?"
----------
Meanwhile, two V-22 Ospreys are making their final approach to the base. Ariol found his way outside to await them...
-
"Who the hell created that?!" Dr. Kerzach shouted as he hastily followed Shelton into the lab. "And how the hell are we supposed to fight it!?"
Dr. Kerzach's pounding heart was overshadowed by the thunderous blows of the experiment that tried to smash its way into the lab.
-
The experiment continued it's attack on the entrance, but fortunately the walls were well built.
"I think we're safe for now," said Shelton. "We're not going anywhere soon, though."
He looked around the lab. "Oh my god."
Massive growth accelerator pods dotted the walls. Embryo cocoons filled all the tables. The room was dimly lit, and the air was warm and humid.
"This is where they grow the embryos, cultivate them through artificial selection, and accelerate them to fighting status," said Shelton slowly. "This is where they make Dragonstorm experiments."
-
As Ariol spotted the flashing lights of reinforcements, his phone buzzed, but not from an incoming call. Wired to the base's network, he could get immediate messages from the most important security systems. He looked down at his cell and cursed. An unauthorized access into the embryo chamber...
"Computer. Patch me in to Delta leader..."
-
Delta Leader's radio buzzed. "This is Delta Leader."
---------------------
Dr. Kerzach looked around the room. "I knew that we had embryo growth rooms. I mean, that's how some of these experiments were created. But one of the things that was drilled into our heads was that accelerated growth pods were totally illegal." He then took a deep breath. "So now what? Do we steal data or wreck the place?"
-
"First thing, yeah, we totally steal the data." Shelton found a computer and sat down. "Drat, it wants a password from a Dragonstorm scientist."
Shelton remembered something a jailed man once told him, regarding a secret project in Pelvanida that Dr. Bruce Tinner was involved in. Sorry, I’m not going to tell you any more. But you may find out on your own someday.
Shelton tried Tinner's password. It let him in.
"Score!" Shelton scanned as much as he could onto two flash drives, and pulled them out. He handed one to Kerzach and pocketed one himself. "If one of these can escape the base intact, we'll have enough proof to shut down Dragonstorm permanently and incarcerate everyone involved for life."
-
Dr. Kerzach stuck the flash drive into his pocket. "Actually, damaging this lab could set off either the CO2 fire extinguishing system or an explosive charge, possibly killing us or at the very least set off an alarm."
He then opened a drawer and retrieved a spiral bound notebook. "Hey! I recognize these scientists! Hicks, Montgomery, Kozlov and O'Neill!"
------------------------
At the same time, Hicks went into one of the elevators and rode it to the Dragonstorm embryo growth room. When he exited the elevator, it retracted seamlessly into the stainless steel floor. The only sign that it was an elevator was a scuff mark that looked vaguely like an "E". He was inside the utility closet and when he stepped out of the closet, he immediately spotted Kerzach and Shelton.
"You! How'd you get in here!?" he demanded.
-
"Won't be forgetting them any time soon," cringed Shelton. "I've still got back problems from that bear hitting me into a wall. His memory gives me motivation to get the rest of them locked up forever."
The ceiling shook. The experiment hadn't given up, and the hits were coming faster and harder. Shelton moved to the back of the room, near the growth acceleration pods.
He noticed one. "Hey, this one's almost done."
The experiment was an eagle or hawk-like raptor, with an outer coat made of metal. The talons were long and wicked, the eyes were focusing crystals for tactical high energy lasers, and the beak appeared to be made for drilling. Inner functions of the growth pod had already been activated, and metallic tentacles were already wiring to the neural network that replaces the brain.
Shelton ran to the computer and checked the status. "It is almost done. There's only a bit of coding to go. The part where they program its allegiances." He looked up suddenly. "You were wondering how we're going to get rid of that Dragonstorm experiment outside. You and me obviously can't fight it. What if we recruit this experiment onto our side?"
-
"Anything that works!" Dr. Kerzach replied.
Hicks then noticed Shelton standing near one of the growth pods. "Shelton! Get the [censored] away from those pods! We worked hard on those!" He then started moving towards Shelton.
-
"That experiment outside's going to work a number on all of us if you don't let me finish this!" Shelton yelled back. "Be a good little boy and maybe I won't program this hawk to attack you on sight!"
(OOC: Should I let the attacking experiment in now?)
-
(OOC - Yeah, you can do that. Remember that Dragonstorm experiments will not harm Dragonstorm affiliated personnel unless they've been reprogrammed.)
"Dragonstorm experiments recognize me as their creator. They will not harm me." Hicks replied. He then snatched a piece of iron pipe left over from construction. "But I will harm you if you don't get away from that pod!" He then brandished the pipe threateningly
Dr. Kerzach opened his knife and stared down Hicks. "Pick on someone who's armed."
-
With a deafening crash, the wall finally gave way, and the first Dragonstorm experiment kicked the rubble out of it's way, roaring angrily and extending its claws.
"Kerzach, take cover!" yelled Shelton, pulling the door of the pod open as the hawk slowly woke up.
The bird flapped into the air, parts creaking, and regarded the massive hulk of metal on front of it. It fired a lazer pulse from both eyes, which the monster's plating relfected inot the ceiling, further weakening the structural integrity of the room. The bird trilled angrily.
Shelton dove behind the growth pod as the bird shot towards the attacker.
(OOC: Feel free to take control of the bird or the attacking experiment during the battle, if you come up with anything interesting to add. I'm kinda drawing a blank on what type of battle they would have.)
-
Dr. Kerzach ran into the utility closet, with Hicks chasing him.
"You ruined both experiments!" Hicks shouted, waving the iron pipe.
"Well, it was either that or die." Dr. Kerzach countered.
----------------
The Hawk experiment sent twin pulses of high energy laser towards its experiment then leapt into the air and tried slashing it with its talons.
(OOC - feel free to take control of Hicks.)
-
The large experiment cried out as the sharp claws pinged off his armored plates. Slashing with his claws, he sent the bird spiraling into a wall.
Shelton made a half-hearted attempt to crawl for the utility closet, but a large piece of roof came down, forcing him to roll back to his original position.
The bird shook itself off and flew at the beast again, switching its beak into a titanium-piercing drill.
-
Shade looked up at the ceiling, his index finger in his mouth.
"Hm...Let's see...Oh, right. There were some...disputes with my creator over...certain facts about my personality, for one thing, and...there was the fact that I can neutralize certain bacterium, making some of the biological weapons he was developing useless, and probably most importantly, the fact that I still have kept my memory. Most don't."
He finally said, a small grin on his face...
-
The creature shrieked as the drill pierced its armor plating. The creature again slashed at the bird, its claws tearing at the bird's armor plates.
----------------------
Hicks then rushed at Dr. Kerzach with his pipe at the ready. Dr. Kerzach ducked under one of the swings but Hicks had somewhat of a reach advantage.
"Shelton! Get in the closet!" Dr. Kerzach shouted. He ducked under another swing and tried to stab Hicks. Unfortunately, he didn't dodge one of Hicks's swings in time. The pipe struck his wrist forcing to drop his knife. Hicks then kicked the knife out of the closet and continued attacking Dr. Kerzach.
-
"There's been an unauthorized breach in the embryo chamber," Ariol said, and paused when he got another automated message on his phone. "Two Dragonstorm experiments are... Secure the damn area! We'll be with you shortly!"
The transports began a vertical descent onto the tarmac...
-
"I am enroute." Delta leader replied. She and her squad were sitting in the soldiers' lounge. She then turned to her squad. "There has been a breach in the embryo chamber. Move out!"
She, followed by her 7 soldiers, then headed to the armory where they grabbed their weapons. Most of the troopers were armed with shotguns and SMGs but 2 were armed with grenade launchers that fired armor piercing HEAT rounds.
As soon as they were armed, they hastily made their way to the embryo room via the emergency passages.
-
"Not liking this, not liking this," Shelton nervously muttered to himself.
Kerzach had yelled at him to get to the closet, but the trajectory of the fighting experiments showed that he'd be trapped in the closet once he reached it. He decided to make for the door instead.
Rolling behind the next closest pod, Shelton crawled away from the two battling experiments. The door wasn't far away...
-
By this time, Delta squad had arrived at the embryo room.
"Too late." one of the soldiers said, looking at the hole in the wall.
"Never too late. These experiments are programmed not to attack us." Delta leader replied. "Now move in!"
Delta squad then filed into the room, some entered through the door others entered through the hole in the wall.
Delta leader sniffed the air a few times. "Wait! Shelton's here... Damn it! He's escaped and we didn't know!?"
"Shelton?" a Delta soldier asked.
"He's the man we captured from the helicopter crash. Find him and kill him!"
-------------------
In the meantime, Dr. Kerzach was trying to dodge the blows that Hicks was delivering. "Shelton! Some help!"
"He's not going to help!" Hicks taunted, swinging his pipe at Dr. Kerzach's head.
Dr. Kerzach narrowly dodged the hit.
-
Shelton hunkered down as plaster peppered the air around him. He hugged the back of the pod as he heard the leader call for his death.
No time. He had to get to Kerzach, but he didn't know if he had time.
Hell with it. Go!
Shelton leapt to his feet and sprinted for the closet where Hicks and Kerzach were. Sidestepping the lumbering monster experiment, who was weakening now that the hawk had formed a weak spot in the armor, Shelton rolled into the closet.
Hicks saw him and tried to push Kerzach out of the way. "Shelton! I've wanted to pound your head in since last time we met!"
"Yeah? Well keep waiting!" Shelton put his fingers in his mouth and let out a trill whistle.
The hawk immediately stopped fighting and swooped down to hover above Shelton's head.
Shelton grabbed one of the talons with both hands. "Kerzach, this may be a bit awkward and painful, but you need to grab the other talon!"
(OOC: I'm going to have the bird fly us onto the next floor through the hole in the ceiling. Is there anything you want to accomplish in this room before that?)
-
(OOC - Cool.)
Dr. Kerzach nodded and grabbed the talon of the experiment. "See you!" He then gave the middle finger to Hicks.
"You wait! That's not the last of me!" Hicks shouted. He then reached inside his labcoat and an elevator rose from the floor and he stepped inside and the elevator then retracted seamlessly into the stainless steel floor.
Delta Leader had tracked Shelton to the closet. She entered the closet and opened fire with her SMG, narrowly missing both Shelton and Dr. Kerzach.
"Go, go, go!" Dr. Kerzach shouted.
The Hawk experiment beeped and rose upwards with Shelton and Kerzach holding on.
By this time, two grenade launcher armed troopers followed Delta leader and fired at the experiment. One of the grenades struck the experiment's torso, injuring it but not stopping its upward flight, the other grenade destroyed a shelf full of blank computer disks.
Soon the experiment and its 2 passengers were out of sight.
-
"Jesus, that was close," Shelton panted, as the hawk dumped both of them on the next floor. He massaged his upper arm. "We need to get as far away from that lab as possible."
-
The Ospreys touched down, and their rear doors opened out. One transport carried a group of reinforcement soldiers, but Ariol's group, a motley band of assassins and hitmen, stepped off the second.
"The gang's all here..." Ariol muttered. "Now then. You obviously know you're here to kill some people. As soon as we stop off at the armory for some really nice toys, then we can begin the hunt. There will be some more transports with reinforcements to begin the extraction of Project Dragonstorm, so the least we can do is give them time to evacuate. But, knowing all of you, you're all overachievers, so don't let me down!"
(OOC: You guys can create the members of Ariol's crew, but keep it under 8.)
-
Delta squad left the lab.
"They're probably in the floor above." Delta leader said.
The squad then headed up a nearby stairwell.
----------------
"I've got this notebook from the lab." Dr. Kerzach said. "And my knife's gone. I'll get another one."
Dr. Kerzach then quickly ran into the office. Luckily, no one was inside. After rooting through the drawers he came back with a Leatherman tool and an assisted opening knife.
"Hmm. It's not the same as my small knife but it'll do." Dr. Kerzach said. He then opened the knife with one hand, revealing that the blade was almost 7 inches long. "I've also got a Leatherman tool in case we need it. On a more relevant note, where to now?"
-
Shelton checked his map. "If we want to get away from those soldiers, the best way to get them off our case is to seal the blast walls with them on the other side. Only way to do that is get to either the main control room or auxiliary control, near the sublevels. we should also make more copies of these flash drives and distribute them to any friendly personnel we meet."
-
"Well, there's no flash drives here. I checked the desks." Dr. Kerzach replied. "I'm going to see what's going on."
Dr. Kerzach then stuck his head outside the lab door and spotted Delta squad coming up the stairs at the far left of the hallway.
"Shelton, Delta squad's on this floor. See if you can hack into the system and turn the autoturrets on them."
-
"I need a passcode for someone who's supposed to work in this section!" Shelton said quickly, looking at the sign above the door, "High Energy Physics! Do you know the passcodes for anyone who works in High Energy Physics?"
-
Dr. Kerzach grinned. "That would be me. Username's SIrving. Password's 15KWYalG."
-
" so how do we ditch these guys/" aisha asked, coming up as Kerzach began tpying in his password.. "I take it they're not here for a bar-bq..
_ No, they re probably here to aid Dragonstorm" Dr Landon agreed.
-
(OOC - Erm I'm not sure how to work with this as I can't quite see how Aisha and Dr. Landon managed to meet these two without attracting Delta Squad's attention. But I'll try)
"Who are you?!" Dr. Kerzach demanded. He immediately whipped out his knife.
Dr. Zanasiu then entered the room. "Kerzach?! How'd you get here?" He then noticed the knife. "Yuri, those are our allies."
Dr. Kerzach put his knife away. "Sorry for the rude introduction but we narrowly escaped with our lives."
"Shelton! Nice to see you!" Zachary said.
Alfred also filed into the room. "So I take it that these two are reinforcements?"
Dr. Zanasiu nodded.
"How'd you evade Delta squad?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"Dr. Bailey screwed with their radios. He told them that their targets were in another lab." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
-------------------
Delta leader entered lab 341 only to encounter a Raven scientist who was working on some cell cultures.
Delta leader swore and headed out the door. "Damn it! Why can't Dr. Branston get his [censored] info right."
-
(OOC: I posted this before seeing Serris' post. This'll be making some massive revisions, ignore all of it.)
"James," exclaimed Shelton. "Sorry to scare you with that copter crash. The pilot was an idiot." He looked at all the people suddenly in the room. "What's up with all these new faces? Were you posting want-ads while I was gone?"
-
(sorry I'm a bit rusty in the this rp.. just trying to catch up)
Yeah, we had help in that" Aisha admitted. " So you guys know each other. Dr Aisha Tennes' ay your service" she put out her hand.. " Nice to meet all of you..' She smiled "Thidss is Dr Landon"
_ Nice to meet all of you" Dr Landon said..
-
Shelton shook Aisha's hand. "Bummer of a first impression, but I assure you normally I'm much more polite. Kinda. Not really."
He checked the computer scanner. "We seem to have the guards off our tail. That's good, but I don't think we should stay in one place for very long." He glanced back at Kerzach. "By the way, I forgot to mention, you're pretty good with a knife."
-
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "Sort of. Ms. Tennes and Dr. Landon have already introduced themselves to you. You recognize me and Zach. The big Bison next to me is Alfred Byford. He did construction work here."
"Hello." Alfred said.
Dr. Kerzach nodded. "I'm not much of a knife fighter. I do collect knives though."
-
Shelton shook Alfred's hand. "Please disregard the giant metallic eagle on my shoulder. He looks at you like that when he's deciding whether you're a friend or foe."
-
"Pleasure to meet you Mr... Pardon what was your name?" Alfred said, taking Shelton's hand.
"It's Dr. Shelton." Dr. Kerzach said.
"Right, pleasure to meet you Dr. Shelton." Alfred said.
Dr. Zanasiu thought a moment. "Anything significant?"
Dr. Kerzach nodded. "We encountered a Dragonstorm experiment and we recruited one. We also found the embryo room. Oh yeah, I almost got my head smashed by Hicks."
Dr. Zanasiu coughed. "What!? You recruited one of these experiments?!"
"The experiment is on Shelton's shoulder."
Dr. Zanasiu cautiously looked at the metallic Eagle which emitted a series of beeps in response.
-
well" Aisha looked at the Eagle, with a quiet awe. " Better to have some experiments on our side, then have them all against us.. Do you have a readout of the floors in this area of the base Dr. Kerzach?' She asked. " It would help to know where we arfrre.. and any escape routes.."
-
"I have a map," said Shelton, getting it out. "And don't worry; the experiment is absolutely programmed to be on our side. Remember the final step of the Dragonstorm pruning process was setting its undying loyalty to Dragonstorm? Well, I got in there before that and set it's loyalty to me and anyone allied with me," explained Shelton. "Me and Kerzach would both have died in the embryo lab if it weren't for Ridley."
-
Ridley is it" Nice to meet you ridley" Aisha said to the Eagle Experiment.. " What do you feed him? I imagine he has to eat?"
-
Dr. Kerzach shook his head. "We evacuated from my lab too quickly to get a readout."
---------------
Dr. Bailey then radioed Dr. Zanasiu.
"Doc Z, have you found anything?"
-----------------
Dr. Zanasiu then radioed Dr. Bailey back. "I have, I've found Dr. Shelton, and Dr. Kerzach." He then turned to Shelton. "We've got Dr. Bailey as mission control."
------------------
Dr. Bailey then looked at one of the monitors. It showed Delta Squad heading their way. "Doc Z, Delta Squad's headin' your way. You'd better move out or prepare for a shootout."
He then activated the autoturrets in the hallways.
------------------
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and turned to Shelton. "Shelton, Dr. Bailey says that
Delta Squad's heading our way."
-
Ridley cawed.
"It was a close call, between that and Steve, but I finally decided he was too charming to be named after my stepbrother." Shelton patted its head. "I have no clue about feeding. Hopefully this ordeal won't take that long, or I can just sic him on people I don't like."
Then he heard what James said.
"Then we should get moving," said Shelton quickly. "I've had first hand experience with their commander, and have no wishes to remeet her."
-
"We can always raid fridges and the cafeteria." Alfred replied. He was eating a large roasted mushroom sandwich.
"Where did you get that?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"The fridge in the office. You may want to check them out. I remember finding a gun in the fridge before."
-
"Oh, forgot to mention," said Shelton suddenly. He took the flash drive out of his pocket. "Me and Kerzach both have one of these. On each is the entire repository of knowledge from the embryo lab computers. There's enough on them to shut down Dragonstorm and everybody involved, so long as we can get out of the base with at least one."
-
' lead me there Alfred. I'm dying for a meatball sub, if they have one' Aisha said. "Save me a salad.. if find one " Dr Landon said.. " Hopefully with croutons..love themm" he licked his lips.. " shooting guards builds up an apetite.."
-
Alfred nodded and showed Aisha and Dr. Landon a large refrigerator in the office. "Help yourselves." he said.
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu followed. "Got anything in there?" Zachary asked.
"Shelton! Want some food? The fridge's in the back!" Dr. Zanasiu called.
"I'll keep an eye out." Dr. Kerzach said. He then quickly sealed the door.
-
Aisha and Dr Landon grabbed food from the fridge. Aisha groabned she saw there was no meatball sub, but instead she found a pair of baloney sadnwiches.."Better nothing " She complained, taking a bite out of the first one. "anyone hre like baloney
_ Just eat it Aisha. Beggars can't be choosers.."Dr landon said.. chewing on a sandwich..
-
Dr. Zanasiu swallowed a large bowl of cold vegetarian curry. "Ugh. I never want to eat that again but it's better than fighting on an empty stomach."
Zachary quickly gulped down a large head of lettuce.
"Should we simply kill Delta squad or just run? I mean we've got one of their experiments on our side?" Alfred asked.
"Let's avoid bloodshed if possible. If we kill Delta squad, it is possible that even more squads will come after us." Dr. Kerzach said, munching on a granola bar he had in his pocket.
-
Shelton checked the chip rack. "Typical. Still out of salt and vinegar chips."
He used his quarter to buy a gumball instead.
-
the last thing we need is to antogonize these guys any more than they already are' Dr Landon said. " They already wnt to kill us though.."
_Aisha had eaten half of the first baloney sandwich,.. "Yeah, we don't need to piss them off any more than they have too. ugh,.. I wonder how long these sandwiches were here.."
-
Delta squad by this time was converging on the lab where the group was hiding.
"Open up!" Delta leader shouted. A heavy thud shook the door.
"Damn it! They must have gotten one of those portable rams. And from how hard it's being swung, they must have a draft horse swinging it." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Let's move. We can't risk a shootout." Alfred said.
"The emergency exit!" Zachary said, pointing to the a door in the back of the lab.
-
Aisha stuffed the spare sandwich in her purse, and wolfed dowbn the last od f the sandwich she was eating. " Come on! She barked as she ran towards the exit..
-
"Damn, how much are they paying these guys?" breathed Shelton, sprinting into the emergency exit behind Aisha. "They just don't quit!
-
Alfred, Dr. Zanasiu, Dr. Kerzach and Zachary sprinted into the emergency exit.
"Do these guys stop?" Alfred asked.
---------------------------
At the same time, Delta squad had breached the lab only to find out that they had escaped.
Delta leader swore. "They must be heading down the emergency corridors. We'll cut them off."
-
"Guns at the ready guys, we may have to shoot our way out of this!' Aisha said as they continued to run..
-
"Um, I'm not armed." Dr. Kerzach said.
Alfred, Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary readied their weapons as Aisha spoke.
"If only we were running through the maintainence hallways." Dr. Bailey said.
"Why's that?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Sometimes, 55 gallon drums of lubricants for machinery are stored there and..."
"We can open one of those drums and create a huge slick of oil." Alfred finished.
"Exactly."
-
Hawkeye turned to face the door, then briefly nodded at Ridley.
"Nice to see another avian on the team. Pleasure."
He said, locking his cannons on the door...
Kagetora spun, unholstering his gun and facing the door.
"Sounds like they're close to breaching it..."
He said, unafraid...
-
They breach, open fire.." Aisha said.. we can't let them catch us.."
_
we need to hold them off long enough for us to escape...Dr :andon said..
-
Ridley beeped in response.
-------------------
Dr. Kerzach thought a moment. "Something like grease? Wait a minute, my last project required the use of high temperature grease!" He then reached inside his lab coat and pulled out a half full tube of high temperature grease. "And I've still got some! If I can cover even part of the hallway in grease we should have enough time to escape." He then turned to the group. "Aisha, Dr. Landon, James cover me!. He then opened the tube and began squeezing the grease in a zig-zagging pattern across the floor.
-------------------
The door finally caved inwards as a heavily built Percheron battered the door down. The Percheron tossed the ram aside and readied his SMG. Two shotgun wielding troopers filed in after him and began sweeping the room.
Delta leader and her remaining troopers were outside.
-
Aisha and Dr Landion immediately opened fire, cutting down the solidiers entering the room, with shots to the head and neck. " Go for the Percheron!' Dr Landon called out..
-
Dr. Kerzach tossed the tube of grease away. "We've got it. Run!"
The Percheron immediately opened fire on the group. Two other troopers tossed grenades towards the group.
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary and Alfred killed the two troopers, then bolted down the hallway.
------------------------
Delta leader and her remaining troopers waited outside the lab.
"I hear gunfire. Move in! Head for the emergency exit." She ordered.
The 5 remaining troopers filed into the room and ran for the exit, completely ignoring Hawkeye, Kagetora and Ridley.
-
Aisha and Dr KlAndon turned and began running after the others, aisha periodically returning fire. the grenades exploded behind them and ignited the hgrease, creating an inforno of several thousand degrees. the floor began to crack.. "Hurry, the floors going to collaspse from the heat!'Dt Landon shouted..
-
Shelton was at the head of those getting out of there. He realized Ridley had flown off his shoulder at the sight of Delta force. "Take care of Ridley!" he yelled back to Hawkeye. "His lasers for eyes might be useful!"
(OOC: You can play as Ridley, Starfall, if you ever want or need to.)
-
After Shade's donation was finished, Vic unhooked him and watched Neku's vital signs. "I personally suggest at least one more transfusion before we try to move you," he implied. "How do you feel right now? Besides one hand less for a piano?"
Feral, still keeping watch, looked over to Aiko. "You in, yet?"
"I'm tapping into the power sector where the fusion reactor is kept," Aiko replied. "I'll have the defenses there shut down to avoid another incident."
"I think there may be another experiment here that's a matching donor," Dr Joe said. "But...he may be more dangerous than he looks, according to these records..."
----------
The squad in the other transport wasted no time as they split and commandeered the bullet-ridden towers, most armed with launchers and sniper rifles...
Ariol and his group entered the facility and are making their way to the armory...
-
Delta squad stopped at least hundred meters before the wall of fire.
"Head out!" Delta leader shouted. She was panting heavily from the heat of the hot fire.
Delta squad then turned around and headed back for the lab.
------------
"Well, that worked as a distraction." Dr. Zanasiu said. He was breathing heavily and sweat poured down his face.
Suddenly Dr. Bailey's voice came over on the radio. "Doc Z, the sensors in that hallway you're in indicate that structural failure of a section of the floor is imminent as well as a fire."
"Yeah, I know about the fire." Dr. Zanasiu replied, "Dr. Kerzach used some grease to trip up our pursuers and a grenade lit the grease on fire."
"Just be aware that the section of the floor that shows the highest infrared signature is also the same area that is likely to fail. It's possible that the grenades weakened the floor. Bailey out."
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Okay, we can't use this hallway anymore because the area that caught fire is going to collapse. On the plus side, they can't chase us down this hallway anymore."
-
"The floor is gonna collapse!" exclaimed Shelton, getting on his tiptoes before realizing that would have no effect whatsoever. He hugged the wall instead. "Where, exactly?"
-
"I'd assume right where I accidentally set the fire." Dr. Kerzach said. By this time, the fire burned itself out.
"We'll need to get out before that happens!" Alfred said. He gestured to a stairwell that led upwards.
"Let's go!" Dr. Zanasiu said. He then entered the stairwell.
-
As Aisha and DR Bailey reached the stairwell the weakened floor gave way, one section fter another fell down into the floor belkow.. " Have to go any way from now on this place is impassible..
-
"Well, at least those troopers won't be coming after us for a bit." Dr. Kerzach said.
"Wait Shelton, aren't Pelvanida guards actually from a private company?" Dr. Zanasiu said. "That could explain why they're so competent; they're being paid to protect, now kill us."
-
(OOC: I'm confused regarding Dr. Bailey. First he radios us about the floors. Then he's in the room with us. Where is he?)
"Great, we're being hunted by psychotic Pinkertons," groaned Shelton. "You're right. Good news is, if we can convince them it's profitable enough, we could pay some of them off."
-
(OOC - Let me fix that. Dr. Bailey is still in the control room.)
"How could we pay them off when they're trying to shoot us?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"I'm not sure if we can make our way back to the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said. "Perhaps we should head to the cafeteria and see if they got any 'surprises' in there."
-
"Radio specific guards when they're alone?" Shelton shrugged. "I don't really know, I'm just saying the fact that they have no actual loyalty to their employer could be useful." He looked back down the hallway. "I hope Ridley's okay with Hawkeye."
-
"One problem with that idea." Alfred said, "We don't have anything to pay them off with."
Dr. Zanasiu facepalmed. "Damn it, I forgot. The most valuable things we have are our weapons."
-
"Does Pelvanida have a place where they store all their money, like a treasury or something?" asked Alfred.
-
(OOC - Werner's still in the control room)
"I guess we can steal money from the Double Helix Eatery or the base commissary or we can rob the other scientists here." Zachary offered.
"Well, I guess that could work. But let's start with simple thievery, then move up to muggings then we can run a prostitution ring? Good idea?" Dr. Kerzach said.
"I hope you were kidding about the prostitution ring." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"I was."
-
(OOC: Who's a character I can control other than Shelton who's in the room? I don't think it's something Shelton would say.)
-
(OOC - Alfred, the Bison construction worker, is now in the public domain.)
"Well, start with thievery." Dr. Kerzach said, gesturing to a stairwell that was labeled, "Pelvanida Cafeteria".
"Well, why not?" Dr. Zanasiu said. He then entered the stairwell, followed by Zachary.
-
"Pelvanida Cafetaria?" quoted Shelton, heading down the stairs. "What happened to 'Double Helix Eatery'? Was the name too creative for them?"
-
"Maybe the new management didn't like the old name?" Alfred said, following the group.
Dr. Zanasiu carefully opened the door and peered out. The emergency exit opened to the back of the kitchens. He noticed a Beagle in a lab coat walking down the hallways and entering the walk-in freezer. He could hear the sounds of cooking and the staff ordering their food. Luckily, there was no one else in the hallways. "Guys, come on."
Zachary and Dr. Kerzach gently pushed the door open and exited the stairwell.
-
" Great, we can order something to go, while we'ree being chased by mercenary guards' Aisha cracked.. 'I wonder what the soup of the day is.."
-
"Stay out of sight. I'm going to follow that Beagle in a lab coat I saw." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then crept out of the stairwell and headed to the walk-in freezer that the Beagle entered.
-
Fine' Aisha grumbled, as she scoured back under the stairway. " Wecould grab some aprons and disguise ourselves as waiters or dishwashers' Dr landon said..
-
Alfred nodded. "Hmm. I'll try that." He then handed Aisha his shotgun and exited the stairwell. He then entered a closet where he helped himself to an apron that fit him the best. He then got an apron that fit Aisha and handed it to her.
"Put this on. We'll try and pose as cooks and gather data from the scientists and guards here." Alfred said.
"What about me?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"Keep an eye out for trouble."
-----------------
Dr. Zanasiu entered the walk in freezer and immediately slipped on a patch of ice. As he staggered to his feet he noticed that a patch of ice seemed too square. He went up to the patch and brushed away some ice crystals revealing a keypad.
He shivered and exited the freezer.
-
Aisha put the apron on. " Good, then we can sneak some food while we cook.." Aisha said, as she nmade her way to the kitchen..
_
-
Sgt. Fred Clyco checked his watch as the G-wagon bumped its way along the roads to the military base. They passed through all the checkpoints without difficulty and eventually made it to Pelvanida's main parking lot.
His official mission was to protect the VIP who sat in the seat next to him, but unbeknownest to the other passangers it was he who carried the real cargo. A secret weapon developed by the Canadian Forces. The only clue about what it could be was that it was manufactured corporately and not by a government divsion so there was a label on the side of the case, "Applied Cryogenics". It must be very tempermental to have to be kept in a cold storage case like this.
The G-wagon stopped at the front gate to drop them off, it was just a transport so it wasn't staying.
-
There were 3 fully armed guards at the gate. One of which radioed in advance, and the nearest tower guards shifted position towards the gate. Another approached the passengers. "Identifications, please."
-
"I don't think I'd fool anybody in an apron," said Shelton, looking at himself. "I look like I've gone through a grease fire and a building implosion at the same time."
-
The driver showed his special clearence ID to the guard, good for just a drop off and no more. Only the VIP and his two soldier guards, Clyco included, had passes to stay for the duration.
-
(OOC - Caustizer, would you please create a character profile for your character? Place the profile here: Discussion page (http://www.gangoffive.net/index.php?topic=4956))
Dr. Zanasiu went up to Shelton. "Stay out of sight and keep an eye on the walk-in freezers. I followed a Beagle in a lab coat to the freezer and he seemingly vanished. On a side note, I found a keypad inside the freezer. Something's there and I want to get to the bottom of this." He went into the closet and changed from his trademark lab coat and pants to a set of blue coveralls. He then handed his shotgun to Zachary. "Hold this please."
Dr. Zanasiu then entered the closet and fetched a mop and a bucket and started mopping the floor.
Zachary nodded and accepted the shotgun. "I hope this works." He then turned to Shelton. "I guess once we gather data here and eat, we should head to the control room."
------------------------
Alfred entered the kitchen where he was stopped by another cook.
"Hey, who are you?" the cook asked.
"I'm Allen Harding. I'm the new chef here." Alfred replied.
"Where's your identification badge?"
"I have to wait until tomorrow to get one."
"Okay, carry on. Since you're the new chef here, you get to be the carrier. Your first job, get me some frozen carrots."
Alfred nodded and headed to where the freezers were located.
-----------------------------
Dr. Bailey looked at perimeter cameras and noticed a group of people being stopped by some guards. He radioed Dr. Zanasiu "Doc Z. there's a group of people outside the base. I think they're trying to get in or something."
-----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "I'll keep that in mind." He then continued mopping the floor.
-
The guard had inspected the the passes and checked them for clearance. After a few tense minutes, the guard returns with the passes. "You have been cleared to enter," the guard stated, "But we are currently in lock down, due to a security breach. We'll have to put you in a secured facility until we get word from Dr Branston. If you'll follow me..."
----------
The trip to the armory was brief, as the mercs knew what they wanted, and met back down where Dr Branston stood.
-
Aisha enyered the Kitchen. " I'm Leslie Mulvaney. I just trabsfeered as my iD hasn't been issued yet. I'll carry out any orders that are ready to be carried out.."
-
Shelton peered at the walk-in freezer. "Vanished?"
(OOC: You know, in my Schroedinger's story Shelton was told the password to the walk-in freezer and of the hidden lab's existence, though at the time he assumed Tinner made it up for the simulation. It doesn't have to happen now unless you want it to, but at some point we could use this to get into the lab.)
-
(OOC - It could happen now but they won't actually get to enter until a bit later.)
"Hello Ms. Mulvaney. You're in luck, we're in need of some extra hands on the deli line." the supervisor said.
Alfred returned from the freezer carrying a large crate of carrots. As he passed by a cook, he noticed that the cook was wearing a holster with a pistol in it. "Here are the carrots."
----------------------
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Yep. He vanished. We could go in there under the pretense of defrosting or cleaning the freezer and look around to see if there's any secret entrances."
----------------------
Dr. Branston looked at the mercenaries who returned with the weapons. "Excellent. I trust you had no trouble entering the AWTR?"
-
Alright, so whats on the menu for today?' Aisha ? Leslie said. " I'll move over the deli like ad start helping right awau. " This would give her time to study what the othervpeople in the kitchen were doing..
-
The driver pulled away as his job came to an end, obeying the guard the VIP and his two escorts followed him into the base.
Clyco kept his hand on his sidearm nervously... security lockdown could mean trouble.
-
"If you do," said Shelton, "Try 'glory' as the password."
"Why?"
"Something Dr. Tinner once said. I assumed at the time he had been making up the premise of a passageway in a freezer, but if he was right about that..."
-
Hawkeye stood on a low beam, watching as a team of guards walked under him.
"Heh. Sure fooled them easily, didn't we, Ridley?"
He asked the other experiment, grinning as best as he could.
Ridley nodded, then let out a short series of noises.
"Right. We should find the others."
Hawkeye said, translating the words...
-
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and entered the freezer with an ice scraper in his hands. He went to the keypad and noticed that it was numerical.
"Glory it is. Okay, I guess I treat like a cellphone." Dr. Zanasiu muttered. He then typed in "glory". The pad beeped and a section of the wall slid back, revealing an armored door. He then tried the armored door but it would not let him open it without a keycard. He then left the freezer and the wall slid back into place.
"Shelton, you were right. There is something there. I can't get in without a keycard."
------------------------
Alfred was frying some potatoes on the stove. As he was doing so, he overheard a fellow cook mention something about a "secret project that has been compromised."
-
"Damn," breathed Shelton. "Tinner was a part of Dragonstorm! I knew him from college! He should be the one with his name scratched from the alumni records, not me!"
-
"I'm not familiar with that man." Dr. Zanasiu said. "But is it possible he and Dr. Zenarchis were the ringleaders of Dragonstorm? Anyhow, I'm going to be 'cleaning' up the front of the cafeteria and spying. Stay with Zach and Dr. Landon, they'll keep an eye out for suspicious personnel."
-
Aisha meanwhile continued making deli sandwiches and moving down the line.. soon she had a large platter piled up.."if you;re hungry take a couple we usually just eat the extra ones' another waitress said to her..
-
"Shelton, what do you know about Tinner?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
-
"We both went to ETH Z¸rich, and stayed in the same dorm building. Most of us foreigners clicked really well together, but he was extremely arrogant and didn't take criticism well. He's got great mind for tech, I test ran a virtual reality simulator he created about a year ago. The simulation included a secret passageway in a walk-in freezer, which was why I thought of it. It's password was 'glory' as well." Shelton looked troubled. "I'd never think he was the kind of guy who'd participate in something like Dragonstorm. I mean, he was ambitious, but I thought he had morals."
-
"Let me guess, it was a simulated version of Pelvanida?"Dr. Zanasiu asked. "Know what happened to him after the test?"
Alfred moved the fried potatoes to the hot food line. When he did so he passed by Aisha."Aisha, got any interesting gossip?" he asked.
-
"That's the one. That was my first little taste of popularity, being involved in all that."
Shelton heard his next statement and smiled. "No. What happened?"
-
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "I don't know so I asked you."
-
"Oh. Oh, I get it." Shelton thought. "Well, the project was scrapped, even though he wanted to work more on it. And he had to stand before the board and explain why certain aspects of his simulator were designed less-than-honestly, but he got off with a warning. He's also avoided me ever since, but that's more of a personal thing. I was hoping you were going to say he finally got punished for his actions or something."
-
"I'll bet he's still here." Dr. Zanasiu said. "Once this place closes down, we'll head over to Bailey's place and ask him to dig up some data. Sound good?" He then looked at his watch. "And this place should be closing for lunch in about 30 minutes."
Zachary noticed a heavily built Shire horse in a cook's outfit heading towards Shelton and Dr. Zanasiu. "Shelton, get out of there! It looks like O'Neill's here."
Dr. Zanasiu heard Zachary and he pretended to be scraping ice off the freezer window.
-
noiot really Aisha said as she stacked more sandwiches.. " Apart from the usuyal waitress gossip.. whos dating whom that sort of thing. I was a wairess in college.."
-
"Dammit!" Shelton looked around. At the end of the wall, food stands separated the eating area from the back kitchens. Shelton vaulted over the nearest one, to the surprise of the cashier.
"Rudy, what--?"
"Sorry, Wayne!" Shelton crawled under the salad bar. "Please don't say anything!"
-
The Shire horse in the cook's outfit was indeed O'Neill. Though he was osteniably hired as a cook, he was actually working with Dragonstorm.
O'Neill passed over Dr. Zanasiu, presumably because he did not see his face.
He then exited the kitchen and entered the main eating area where he grabbed a plate and headed to the salad bar.
-----------------
Alfred noticed that several of the gathered scientists were looking at him and Aisha rather suspiciously. One of the scientists scribbled something down on a notepad and another reached for a pistol he kept inside his lab coat.
"Erm, may I have a roasted portabello sandwich on a ciabatta roll, with balsamic vinegar dressing." he said.
-
Wayne was confused, but straightened up and tried to put a nonchalant look on his face. "What would you like, sir?"
O'Neill stopped, his feet precariously close to Shelton's face. "Caesar salad. No croutons. Extra carrots."
"Right away!" Wayne got to work, accidentally dropping the salad ladle. It clattered right next to Shelton's ear, who almost kicked O'Neill in the shin from fright.
"Sorry!" Ignoring Shelton's scandalized expression, Wayne grabbed it and quickly finished the salad. "Have a nice day, sir!" He smiled, passing the salad over shakily.
O'Neill took his salad and silently walked to an empty table, far away.
Once O'Neill was safely away, Shelton exhaled, and started to crawl out of the salad bar. "Thanks," he said. "Tinnitis aside, I owe you one."
Wayne helped him to his feet. "Rudy, what are you doing here? You're supposed to be in Austria!"
"Long story," said Shelton. "I can't go into detail right now, but you can't tell anybody about this. How did you even recognize me?"
"You're on our card."
Shelton stopped. "What card?"
Wayne took of his right shoe and pressed a circular piece of tread on the sole. A secret slot slid out, and he showed Shelton a business card. Pictures of James, Shelton, Werner, and Dr. Joe were at each corner.
"Wayne Anthony, ADSA organizer" Shelton read. "What's ADSA?"
Wayne lowered his voice. "The Anti-Dragonstorm Alliance. Don't think you and your friends were the only ones who protested this project; a bunch of scientists have learned about it, and we've formed our own underground effort to expose Dragonstorm to the public."
"Really? This exists? Since when?"
"Since you were deported for no reason, and your friends fired. Some of us found that suspicious, and they're not exactly hiding the fact that Dragonstorm is back up. Scientists like O'Neil walk the hallways, and Lab 101 is off-limits to all but "classified" personnel. And by classified, I mean everyone who was released from prison and brought back to Pelvanida." Wayne's expression grew dark. "We're fighting back. And you could be a great help."
"Well, first of all, take this." Shelton gave Wayne the flash drive. "This has all the data from the Lab 101 network."
Wayne's eyes grew wide. "This is amazing! You don't know how important this is!"
He motioned towards the labs. "I can take you to our HQ. The others will want to meet you."
"Wait, first I should introduce you to my friends. They're here too." Shelton led Wayne over to James and Zachary.
Wayne shook their hands. "Wayne Anthony, assistant to Dr. Kyle. Dr. Zanasiu, Mr. Johnson, this is an honor."
He told them everything he said to Shelton.
-
Coming right up' Aisha said and began scrambling to rapidly make the sandwich. " I think we need to get out of here" She whispered . " i think they are growing suspicious, dfrom the looks I've been noticing.. then aloud, she produced the finished sandwich.. ' here you go' she gave a winning smile to alfred.
-
Alfred accepted the sandwich. "Thank you. Have a nice day!"
After he went to cashier and paid, a Poodle in a lab coat approached him.
"I haven't met you before, but in any case I'm Dr. Hans Jensen, biologics researcher. " the scientist asked.
"I'm Allen Harding, the newest cook. Nice to meet you." He then shook the scientist's hands.
"Well, Mr. Harding, pleasure to meet you. I hope you have a great day. Oh, one last thing, if you see a Bison named Alfred Byford, report him to security immediately. He's a big Bison in a flannel shirt and blue jeans. He's considered to be armed and dangerous."
The scientist walked away. Alfred sighed in relief, thankful that the apron covered most of his clothing.
As he sat down to eat his sandwich, another scientist approached him. "Hey, you'd better eat fast. The place is closing soon."
Alfred nodded and began eating.
-------------------------
O'Neill had eaten his salad, put away his plate and headed out of the cafeteria.
-------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary returned the greeting.
"Pleasure to meet you Mr. Anthony." Zachary replied. "And you may call me Zachary or Zach."
"Nice to meet you too, Mr. Anthony." Dr. Zanasiu replied. "You may call me James. On a side note, I am relieved. I had thought that all personnel were supportive of Dragonstorm or at the least ignorant of it."
Dr. Kerzach looked at his watch. "The cafeteria will be closing soon. We should stay here until the cafeteria closes for lunch."
"He's right. You can take us to HQ later. Then we'll plan." Dr. Zanasiu said.
-
(OOC: Drat! I didn't read your post carefully enough, Serris. I thought you meant O'Neill left the entire cafe, when you said he left the kitchen. I didn't read he headed for the salad bar. If you want to add the conversation between O'Neill and Wayne into that post, you totally can. Feel free to take control of Wayne for it, he's intended as a kinda public domain character.)
-
(OOC - I'm not going to have O'Neill interact with Wayne yet. Assume that O'Neill did not speak to Wayne.)
Alfred finished his sandwich as the staff began filing out of the cafeteria. He then placed his plate on the plate return area and went up to Aisha. "The cafeteria's closing." he whispered.
Dr. Kerzach looked at his watch. It read 15:30. He then looked into the kitchen and noticed that most of the cooks were gone. "Guys, the cafeteria's closed for lunch. Let's start heading out."
-
As the group exited the Cafeteria, a ceiling duct slowly slid away, and a group of figures dropped down. First was Kagetora, rolling quickly aside to clear the area for Slash, followed by Agito, then Cale. Last down were Hawkeye and Ridley.
"Sorry for the entrance. We've been keeping an eye on you guys, in case something went wrong."
Kagetora said calmly...
-
Wayne smiled and extended his hand. "Pleased to meet you. Unfortunately, I don't know any of your names except Mr. Hawkeye, as you weren't Pelvanida personnel and therefore no information was released. It is nevertheless an honor to meet all of you."
"Hawkeye, you appear to have bonded with Ridley," noted Shelton approvingly. "You can hold on to him if you like."
-
anita hung up her apron and hurried up ro the others ' good to see a friendly face' she chimed in' Aisha Tennes, my father is Admiral Tennes.. you may or matyy not have heard of him..'
-
"Admiral Tennes?" Wayne whistled slowly as he shook his head. "Are you here on official business? I can't believe they'd clear a mission like this."
-
Kagetora tipped his head respectfully.
"Kagetora Kurokaze. Ex-Vigoorian Tactical Ninja, now ally of these fine people."
He said.
"Cale. Pelendavia experiment, and I guess a friend of the fight against Dragonstorm."
Cale replied, hand extended.
"Name's Slash. Also a Pelendavia experiment, and one of the devils of Five floors deep."
Slash stated, both halves of his body nodding in unison.
"Agito...Devil of five floors deep...And enemy of Dragonstorm."
Agito intoned, body twitching as a form of greeting...
Hawkeye smiled.
"Yes, well...that's very kind of you, Shelton. Thanks."
He said, grinning happily...
-
"So where to now?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"I'd say we should head back to the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to everyone gathered. "Head to the control room or follow Mr. Anthony to HQ?"
-
Wayne shook Cale's proffered hand. "Ah, your name rings a bell. I admit I didn't expect to see you on our side. Teach me to trust Dragonstorm propaganda that says you backed the wrong horse."
"You're welcome," Shelton said to Hawkeye. "Maybe you can figure out how we're supposed to feed him."
In regards to James' question, Shelton said, "I think we should check in with ADSA as soon as possible. We should make allies whenever possible. Besides, having people on our team who aren't shot at on sight might be useful."
-
Cale looked away.
"Well, technically...they weren't lying. I wasn't always on the same side as everyone else..."
He said guiltily...
-
unofficial buniss, my offivcial story is training at carson city' Aisha replied. " My father wanyts dRagonstorm stopped at any cost. ' we suceed, the country will owe us a tremendous debt..'
-
Just then Dr. Zanasiu's radio beeped. "Doc Z. Where the hell have you been? You sacred the ever living crap out of us when you vanished for a few hours!"
"Sorry Doc B, we were eating lunch. But we found some new staff."
"Doc Z, orient the new staff and report back. Doc B out."
Dr. Zanasiu looked at the group. "Okay it is settled, head to ADSA HQ, then go to control room." He then took a deep breath. "Anthony is a high priority target, we must protect him at all costs." He then turned to Wayne. "Mr. Anthony, can you use a weapon?"
Zachary handed Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred back their shotguns, which they gratefully accepted.
-
"Better than most. I grew up on a farm," replied Wayne. "And Cale, at least you're on our team now."
He pointed deeper into the kitchen. "The quickest way to HQ is through the meat lockers in the kitchen. We'll have to wait a few minutes while the kitchen staff clears out, which doesn't take long. Until then, I can tell you briefly what we've learned about Dragonstorm."
-
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Okay, shoot."
The sounds of the kitchen staff cleaning up could be heard.
-
Wayne started. "Obviously we have loads of small clues we've pieced together, like new encrypted files from Lab 101 almost every day, hallway sightings of large groups of former prisoners, and a mysteriously large group of locked documents with titles initialed "DS", but currently none of the ADSA members have clearance into Lab 101, so we had very little actual proof.
"We do know that they have a meeting every day, usually around lunchtime, but the Dragonstorm members that attend the meeting cycle, so any one scientist usually meets about once every three days. Some of them we've managed to pin down further, for example, O'Neill goes to the meeting on Mondays and Thursdays. We know someone has taken the place of Dr. Zenarchis as leader of Dragonstorm, but they've done a good job of keeping their identity secret. We don't think they attend meetings.
"The Pelvanida board of directors knows about Dragonstorm. Of this we're certain. We're not certain if they're directly involved or just turning a blind eye, but they aren't ignorant. This makes us think Dragonstorm might be a government sanctioned project, but we aren't positive, and not all of us agree on that point.
"We have a number of intercepted documents, usually ones sent via the Internet, but like we said, the titles are random other than having "DS" initials, and the actual documents are jibberish. We think it's some kind of code, but it's not really something we can crack.
"Oh, and one final thing. When Marty, the head technician, did a massive rewiring of the electrical system, he accidentally discovered an extra gas pipe hidden at the end of the pipe room. It appears to lead to Lab 101, which makes us think they cremate the experiments that don't survive the cyber/psionic process."
-
Ridley turned to Hawkeye, communicating with the other cyber-experiment.
"Ridley says that they do cremate failed experiments, but...it's also used on experiments who resist the neural reprogramming. Meaning that they still feel the flames..."
Hawkeye said, sounding disgusted...
-
Dr. Kerzach, Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary all made faces of disgust at the information that Ridley revealed.
"All the more reason to stop this abomination." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred looked around and noticed that the lights in the cafeteria had been dimmed. "Guys, we're clear."
"Okay, then let's go. Mr. Anthony, lead the way." Zachary said.
-
Dr Joe fiddled with the pad until she found the cell number of the experiment X-278, and it was in the same hallway they're in. The door was opened, but there's no telling if the allegedly dangerous experiment was still inside. For a place originally meant for more project failures and isolation of uncooperative experiments, so far Shade had proved an exception. Perhaps there are several more experiments here that are as friendly.
Vic unhooked Shade from the blood transfer machine. "Neku? How you doing?"
----------
"No trouble at all," Ariol replied. "We also have about 3 hours before more planes come in to move Dragonstorm out. As soon as we find these intruders, we'll make a clean sweep of the base. Any idea where Delta squad is?"
----------
The guard radioed in, and soon two jeeps pulled up, one of which had a massive Browning 50-cal machine gun mounted on it. "This way, please," the guard gestured.
-
Neku chuckled.
"Heh...Feels like I've been on the inside of a drum..."
He said tiredly, looking at his arm...
-
"We're looking for one more donor right now. You think you can sprout a new arm with your lizard genetics?" Vic asked.
Dr Joe carefully walked to the cell doorway and looked inside. She had to look deeper into a dark corner to finally spot something within, shaking fearfully...
-
Wayne nodded. "Quietly now. There are no doors, and the kitchen echoes."
Wayne led the way into the eerily quiet kitchen. Dim light gleamed off the various metal utensils and polished surfaces dotting the walls and floor.
Behind the kitchen was a meat locker.
"Try not to touch the meat, please. Especially you," Wayne said to Shelton. "You'll contaminate it."
"Well, excuse me for surviving a copter crash," Shelton muttered, but gave the meat a wide berth.
Wayne stood in front of the west wall and knocked 'Shave and a Haircut' on it. "Nixon's original office was here," he explained, referring to the head chef, "but when the base underwent it's massive renovations, he staked out a new spot further from the meat locker. Complained about it always being so cool. We replaced the door with solid wall and made a secret entrance here so that others wouldn't know about the room still existing. According to maps it's just an extension of the meat locker."
The door clicked open, and Wayne ushered everyone in. "It's going to be a tight fit," he apologized in advance.
There were two men already in the room. One was a tall Bengal tiger, obviously a scientist. The other was a young man with blond hair and glasses.
"Dr. Bradley, and his assistant Riley," Wayne introduced.
-
"Pleasure to meet you. Dr. Bradley and Mr. Riley." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Zachary, Dr. Kerzach and Alfred introduced themselves.
Dr. Zanasiu's radio beeped. "Doc Z, there's some life signs heading towards you. And I think it may be another squad of hostiles."
Alfred sighed. "We'll need to conceal ourselves in this area until that squad leaves."
--------------------------
Dr. Branston looked at his monitor. He bought up a list of formed squads. He selected Delta squad and tapped Delta Leader's symbol, which was a gold delta symbol.
The screen shifted to a map near the cafeteria. "Ariol, Delta leader and her squad are near the cafeteria."
-
"Pleas--" Dr. Bradley started, but his assistant cut him off.
"Blimey, you're Dr. Zanasiu and his team!" Riley blurted out excitedly. "All the work we've done is thanks to you! We've also been working to stop--"
"I daresay they already know our name and purpose," interrupted Bradley patiently, "or they would not have willingly been brought here."
Wayne handed Bradley the flashdrive. "Dr. Shelton retrieved these files from the Lab 101 computers."
Bradley's eyebrows raised. "This may be the last surviving copy. The computers were destroyed in what was claimed to be a 'freak shortout.' "
"Oh, there was a freak, but it was of the flesh-and-titanium bone kind," added Shelton. "Me and Kerzach were there."
Riley had the files open and were reading them with wide eyes. "They're all in code! Just like everything we've already got!"
Wayne sighed. "Then we're back to square one. We still don't know how to translate their code."
"There'll probably be something that could help in the Dragonstorm lab," said Shelton. "Behind the freezer."
"You mean the one we can't get to?" said Alfred. "The entrance is still locked."
"We know the keypad code already. All we need is a security card. We just saw O'Neill leave the cafeteria. Maybe we could catch up with him and 'borrow' his."
-
Ridley, who was hovering in the air to minimize the space he took up, began beeping excitedly.
"Ridley says that there won't be a need to break in, or at least he doesn't think so. He recognizes the code. Apparently, it's actually the same code used in standardizing the Dragonstorm project's Neural nets. He should be able to translate at least some of the data, and failing that, access security doors like the one we need to get past."
Hawkeye said, translating for his new friend...
-
Wayne raised his eyebrows. "Awesome!" he said. "Since it's in code, we can't actually tell what's more important than something else, but if you want to start skimming, just let us know when you find anything useful."
Ridley slid out of the way, offering the seat in front of the computer.
-
Delta squad entered the darkened cafeteria, sweeping around with their gun lights.
Delta leader gestured for 3 of her men to examined the cafeteria while she took the remaining 4 men and headed for the kitchen.
----------------
Dr. Zanasiu's radio beeped. "Doc Z, the sensors show hostiles in the cafeteria, including the kitchen. Doc B out."
Dr. Zanasiu turned to Anthony. "Wayne, we'll need to seal the door. I've got word that hostiles are here. "
-
"Then I'll send 2 of my hunters to vice our 'guests' in," Ariol replied. "The rest of us will be heading down to sanitize the base before they reach the main reactor."
-
"They've done passes before, and never found us," said Wayne, but he looked nervous. "None of you were tracked, right?"
Dr. Bradley pulled the flashdrive out of the computer and gave it back to Shelton. "I'm ready to fight if I must," he said, unclipping a silver Desert Eagle from his belt.
Dr. Shelton retreated to the far side of the desk. "I'm not!"
-
I am' Aisha said, loading a fresh clip of bullets into her gun. "But if we can remain undetected thats fine..
-
"Delta squad has been following us but we lost them for a while." Zachary said.
"I wouldn't count on losing them again." Alfred said, readying his shotgun.
Dr. Zanasiu did the same shotguns and Dr. Kerzach flipped open his knife.
"Aisha and Dr. Landon, are you all prepared to fight if we need to?" Zachary asked.
--------------------
Dr. Branston nodded "I'll send Gamma squad as reinforcements. And I'll send over Metal Storm." He then radioed gamma squad and the scientists in charge of Metal Storm.
--------------------
Deeper in the hidden base Gamma squad, a large squad of 10 troopers, suited up for battle.
-
Aiko had finally tapped into the security guarding the main reactors, knocking out the cameras, sensors, and the defense turrets. "I hacked into the room," he said. "But it won't hold up forever, at least until we manually take the system down."
"Then we can't wait forever for our friend to get better," Feral replied. "Aiko and I will move in and take out the reactor. Vic, stay here and keep him stabilized."
At that, Feral and Aiko headed for the vents mapped to lead to the fusion reactor room...
Meanwhile, Dr Joe cautiously looked into the room at the experiment. "Hello?" No reply. "Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you. I'm Dr Joe. Are you known as X-278, or do you have another name?"
Several more moments of silence, when...
"...I...don't have a name..."
----------
Two of Ariol's trained assassins, one a cobra and the other a human female, began their way to the cafeteria from the other direction...
-
"Anyone have a spare gun?" asked Wayne.
"I have an aspirator," offered Shelton.
-
(OOC - Metal Storm is not a Dragonstorm experiment. He's an ordinary Dragonstorm aligned cyber experiment.)
The hidden door in the freezer slid open as the 10 heavily armed troopers filed through it. They immediately fanned out.
---------------------
Inside one of the secret base's lab, Metal Storm and his scientists were preparing him for battle.
Metal Storm, a powerfully built humanoid nodded as he heard the orders. Metal Storm looked like an ordinary Human, but he stood nearly 9 feet tall and was composed not of flesh, but gleaming metal. Indeed, the only organic part of him was his brain. He was once a Dragonstorm scientist who was fatally injured when one of his fellow scientists, who had discovered that his son had been kidnapped and later killed for Dragonstorm, hacked him to death with a fire ax.
He detached his left arm, a simple metallic Human configured arm with 5 fingers and swapped it for an arm that was nothing but custom built belt fed M249.
"Hey, Metal, aren't you going to use the arm I made for you?" one of his scientists asked.
"I think using the 30 mm round indoors is a bad idea." Metal Storm replied.
The scientist shrugged. "Suit yourself."
Metal Storm nodded. "Wait, do we have the so called Minigun here?"
The scientist nodded.
Metal Storm swapped out his new arm for his previous arm and he headed to the armory, there he grabbed his minigun and draped nearly 6000 rounds of ammunition in the form of disintegrating link belts over his shoulders.
He then headed out of the secret base.
---------------------
Dr. Bailey's eyes fell out of his head as he saw 12 red dots appear out of nowhere in the cafeteria. He hastily radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc Z, there are 12 new hostiles in the cafeteria. Add that to the 7 of Delta squad and you've got 19 hostiles coming at you."
-
I'm willing to fight, but against 19 enemies thats pushing our luck' aisha said, is there anyway out of here?"
another exit perhaps ' dr landon said.
-
Wayne shook his head. "This was an office. Offices only have one door."
"This one has two!" Shelton crossed to the wall where the original door used to be. "This used to be hollow, so it's weaker. We might have a chance to bust it down."
-
"It's better than running the gauntlet outside." Alfred said. "Does anyone have anything to break the weaker wall down?"
Dr. Kerzach held up his knife. "This is it."
"Wait, we have our out weapons! We can use them like hammers, just keep pounding the butts of our rifles and shotguns at the weak spot." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred shook his head. "With so many in a confined space, an accidental discharge can have deadly effects."
Dr. Kerzach sighed. "Well, here goes!" He then slammed his knife into the thin sheet metal of the wall that Shelton indicated. The knife easily pierced the metal.
-
try ans be as quiet as possible. we want this place to remain secret'Aisha said as she watched Kerzach work with the knife
-
Dr. Kerzach said nothing as he began cutting the metal with a rather loud tearing sound. After several minutes he had cut away the metal, which Alfred and Zachary carefully placed aside.
Dr. Kerzach then swore softly as he realized that he had encountered a layer of drywall.
"Well, I guess we have to smash our way through." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"With what?" Zachary asked.
Dr. Zanasiu, Dr. Kerzach and Zachary looked at Alfred.
-
So did Shelton, after a beat.
-
"What do you want me to do?" Alfred asked.
-------------------
Metal Storm had now entered the cafeteria. He encountered Gamma squad and paired up with them.
-------------------
Dr. Bailey noticed another dot appear on the radar but it registered very weak life signs. He quickly radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc Z, I've got another life sign in the cafeteria. It's very weak, so it's probably a cyber experiment." He then activated the camera in the cafeteria and zoomed in on Metal Storm.
"Doc Z, I have a visual. It is a cyber experiment. It's armed with a M134 Minigun. You'll need heavy weaponry to take it down. Doc B out."
-------------------
Dr. Zanasiu sighed as he listened to the transmission. "Well, we've now got a cyber experiment after us. And we'd better hope it passes over us or we can get away."
-
"It isn't rocket science!" Shelton snapped nervously at Alfred.
"If Alfred doesn't want to beat the door down I can," offered Bradley, flexing his biceps.
Wayne looked at the door. "Seriously, anyone have a spare weapon? At all?"
-
Alfred nodded. "All right, I'll try."
He then delivered a powerful kick to the drywall, his workboot shod feet propelled by his inhumanly strong muscles shattered the drywall like it was made of paper. "That was easy."
Zachary also joined in, the metallic clanging of his horseshoe shod feet battering down the drywall echoed around the room.
Dr. Zanasiu looked at Wayne. "Sorry, we only have one weapon. WE can get you another one soon."
-
Clyco and his charge, along with the other bodyguard were making their way into the deeper parts of the base when suddenly the wall in front of them caved open.
In panic the VIP hid, while Clyco and the other guard drew their side arms. He made sure he was using his free arm, as the other was bound by the case he was carrying.
"Who is it...identify yourselves!" hollered the other guard, while Clyco checked his clip to make sure he had ammo in case of a confrontation.
-
Shelton flattened himself against the wall. "They've got us! Hide!"
"We'd all be dead by now if they were the enemy!" retorted Wayne. "Quiet!"
He stepped forward, hands in the air. "I'm unarmed," he said. "We're just scientists. We were trapped in the room and just wanted to leave. I'm Wayne Anthony, assistant to Dr. Kyle. Who are you?"
-
Alfred and Zachary looked at the two guards. "We mean you no harm. We merely had to escape as we were stuck in a room."
Dr. Zanasiu and Dr. Kerzach, hidden in the back kept their weapons at the ready.
-
Feral and Aiko crawled through the vents until they reached the fusion reactor, pausing long enough to look for anyone home...
----------
Ariol's band started to make their way down, and soon three members took a different route...
----------
"Would you like a name?" Dr Joe asked.
"I...don't know..." the experiment replied.
"It says here that Professor Wong was the scientist who was taking care of you."
"He...put me down here to be safe..."
"From who?"
"I don't know..."
-
Aisha came up tothe two guards.. "sorry about smashing the wall down.. but we needed to get out..
-
"I am Alfred Byford, a construction worker." Alfred replied.
"I am Zachary Johnson, laboratory assistant." Zachary replied.
-
"Stand down... their friendlies," said the other guard. Clyco obeyed, and the VIP they had been escorting stood up to address the newcomers.
"We were told to deliver our cargo to Section 482-b in the subliminals of the base, but apart from the front guards this place has been nearly deserted. If I may ask what is going on here?" The nameless VIP asked.
-
Dr. Zanasiu stepped forward. He lowered his shotgun as he did so. "We are actually the reason the base is in lockdown. We were contracted by Carson City Camp to find and destroy a series of illegal experiments. You are welcome to join us."
Dr. Kerzach still had his knife at the ready. He then turned to Shelton. "I'm not sure if I can trust these two." he whispered.
-
(OOC: There are three... two guards and an as yet unnamed VIP. Fred Clyco is just one of the guards)
"We are here at the beheadest of our government to deliver an important package - not to clean up your people's messes," Insisted the VIP, who brushed off his fancy suit.
"If the experiments in this base, what ever they may be, are running lose in the halls then I question if our charge is safe in your hands. Clyco, Cardon they aren't a threat let us move on."
"Yessir," responded Clyco, and he holstered his sidearm along with the other bodyguard. He bid the scientists a small salute as the escort team continued into the depths of the base.
-
Alfred frowned. "So they are working with Dragonstorm?"
"We don't know yet." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to the escort team. "Wait, the guards may think you are with us and they may decide to capture or kill you!" he called after them.
"Forget about them. We'd better head back to the control room." Zachary said.
-
Aisha frowned at the smugness of the VIp. " That arrogance will get those three killed.. oh well, best be on our way.. where to next guys?' She asked.
-
"I'd suggest we head to the control room and appraise Dr. Bailey of our efforts." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"We'd better get moving. Wayne, coming with us?" Zachary asked.
-
Where is the Control room?' Aisha asked. trying to stifle a yawn... :and where are we ging to get some sleep?'
-
"We can sleep in the control room." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"The control room is on the first floor." Zachary then looked at a wall map. "And we're on basement floor 3."
"I guess it's through the maintainence hallways."
"Well, let's get moving before those soldiers find us."
The group then headed down one a nearby maintainence hallway that was empty and they rode a freight elevator to the first floor where they made their way back to the control room.
"So how have things been?" Werner asked. Hans was taking a nap in a chair.
"Pretty exciting. We got chased by guards, the usual." Dr. Kerzach replied.
Zachary yawned. "I'm getting sleepy."
Dr. Zanasiu did the same. "I think my parasympathetic nervous system is in control now."
Dr. Bailey activated the auto turrets. "You can now take a nap if you need."
-
"Finally, I get to meet the esteemed Dr. Bailey," Shelton smiled broadly and shook his hand. "Rudy Shelton, former control room admin. I admit I'm surprised they picked you to replace me. Dr. Kyle had been my back-up while I was still employed."
"They trust him almost as little as they now trust you," added in Wayne.
Shelton nodded. "Ah." He lowered his voice for Bailey, "Hey, do you use the secret compartment behind the printer?"
-
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu were sleeping in two nearby chairs.
"Pleasure to meet you." Dr. Bailey replied. He then lowered his voice. "Dr. Branston replaced you and I replaced Dr. Kyle. I tried to expose Dragonstorm and Dr. Branston locked me in a closet. Also, what's with the printer compartment?"
Alfred was standing guard.
-
Storage perhaps? Aisha said settling into a corner.. DR Landon moved next to the printer.. " We've made some progress, but we still have nio idea how many experiments there are, or what Dragonstorm is trying to create next.."
-
"The only way we can do that is to decode the data in these memory sticks or steal some more data or force a Dragonstorm scientist to divulge their secrets. Neither of those options is easy but decoding is the safest and kidnapping is the most dangerous. I mean, none of us are really soldiers." Dr. Kerzach said.
"True." Dr. Bailey commented. "But we don't need to be soldiers to defend or steal data."
-
Shelton pushed the printer aside to show a hole carved out of the wall. Some stale snacks stood behind it. "I don't how you've lived this long without a place to hide food. Hope you aren't one of those sticklers for rules." Shelton tried a crisp and quickly spat it out.
"And I always vote whichever option keeps me furthest from harm's way. Some of those Dragonstorm scientists can really hold their own, such as the brown bear types," he grimaced.
-
"I did not know that even existed." Dr. Bailey said. "Perhaps we can hide notes in there?"
"Good idea." Dr. Kerzach said.
"Well, none of us are cryptologists so stealing data is the best bet." Werner said.
"We'll need to take a few people who are armed to fend off unwanted attention." Hans said.
"I am happy to come along." Alfred said.
Hans nodded. "Okay, Alfred, you me and Werner will come along. We'll also need a scientist. Dr. Kerzach, Shelton?"
-----------------------------------
Dr. Branston noticed Sgt. Clyco and the two men heading deeper into the sublevels. He radioed the tower guards. "You said a certain person was supposed to be guarded right?"
"Affirmative." the voice replied.
"He is wandering around the base with his two guards and he seems to be heading to the sublevels."
"We can't let him get killed or captured by those terrorists!"
Dr. Branston saluted the console and radioed Gamma Squad. "Gamma Leader, our visitors have gotten lost. Please find them and escort them to the the safe room."
He then switched frequencies. "Gamma Squad is on the way."
He then turned to Ariol. "Were we expecting these visitors?"
------------------------------------
Meanwhile, Delta squad, Metal Storm and Gamma Squad swept the cafeteria, finding no signs of anyone.
Suddenly Metal Storm got a transmission. He nodded and turned to everyone else. "We're heading to the fusion reactor. Security has been compromised."
Gamma leader suddenly received a transmission. "I'm en route." He then turned to Metal Storm. "Sorry I can't follow you but I've got to ensure some visitors are safe." He then rallied his squad and took them out of the cafeteria.
Metal Storm nodded and hefted his Minigun. "No matter, still got lots of firepower right here."
The soldiers began heading to the fusion reactor via the maintainence hallways.
-
"I can go," said Shelton. "I'm better at hacking than I am fighting."
-
"I'll take command of this small group for a moment. Aisha, Bailey, Landon, we're going to steal some data. We'll be back soon." Dr. Kerzach said.
"You're coming?" Alfred asked.
Dr. Kerzach grinned. "Yep, it's a perfect ratio. Two computer hackers, three fighters."
Hans and Werner picked up their stolen rifles and stood by Shelton and Dr. Kerzach.
"Ready to roll?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
Dr. Bailey saluted them.
-
Shelton smiled and saluted Bailey back. "Nice meeting you. Take good care of the control room, and she won't let you down."
-
Dr. Kerzach stuck his memory stick into the compartment behind the printer. "Can't risk having that found."
He then grabbed portable radios from a nearby rack and handed them to Shelton, Werner, Hans, Alfred and kept one for himself.
"Okay let's head out." Dr. Kerzach said.
"Good luck." Dr. Bailey said.
Dr. Kerzach then exited the control room with his group. The .50 caliber machine gun turrets slowly swiveled as they looked for threats.
-
"I hate those things," Shelton muttered, glancing at the turret. "Wouldn't knockout gas or something work as well?"
-
Corporal Stern parachuted from the transport plane out into the dirt just outside the compound. In the distance he saw several figures, but could not make out what they were at this range. Loading his sidearm, he proceeded into the fray.
-
"Sir, we've got a paratrooper in here!" one of the tower guards radioed Dr. Branston.
"Alert him that there's been a terrorist assault. But be careful, he might be one of those terrorists." Dr. Branston replied via radio.
The tower guard nodded and gestured for two of his men to intercept the figure.
The two guards headed across the desert to confront the new arrival.
----------------------------
"Not if they're wearing gas masks or stole the airpacks from the emergency cabinets." Dr. Kerzach replied.
"Hey, here's a lab we can check out. Of course, once we take what we need, we'll need to destroy the lab." Alfred said. He was pointing to a lab with the name Dr. Theodore Rawlson on the plate.
Alfred carefully pushed the door open. He and Werner swept around the room and gestured everyone to come in when he saw no threats.
"I'll stand guard." Hans said.
-
"Rawlson. Name doesn't ring a bell. Anyone know who that is? He new or something?" asked Shelton, rummaging through the drawers.
-
Stern approached the two guards and greeted them "Corporal Thomas Stern, reporting for duty. Command sent me in as reinforcements. I am a specialist in firearms and explosives. What is the situation?"
-
(OOC - I hope everyone's okay with this plot twist.)
"Greetings Corporal Stern." The soldier said, saluting him. "But let's get right down to business. There has been a terrorist attack. Pelvanida's security squads are attempting to deal with the issue at hand but they are being stretched thin. You are to report to the control room and undergo a briefing. Your mission will be made clear by the control room administrator."
----------------------------
Dr. Kerzach pulled out a lab report from a drawer. The lab report bore the title "Toxicity of Lanthanide Containing Alloys In Pediatric Psions" on the front. Underneath the title were the names of the scientists who worked on it.
"Shelton, I've got something!" He held up the lab report. "It looks like Dr. Dyson Holmes partnered with Drs. Rawlinson, Tsang, Furokawa and Fellingham." Dr. Kerzach said, reading off the cover. "And I know Dr. Holmes."
(OOC - there's a chemistry joke in here.)
-
"Understood. Corporal Stern out." And with that, he proceeded to the control room with all haste...
-
The "guards" who greeted Corporal Stern nodded.
"I hope the control room's under Doc S's control." the first guard muttered.
"We'd better get back before our disguise is busted." the second guard replied.
With that said, the two guards headed back to the tower.
-
"Hmm." Shelton skimmed through the report. "Interesting stuff. Is there anything useful in here? What do you know about Dr. Holmes?"
-
Things were pretty tense as Clyco, Cardon, and their escortee finally made it down to the required level. The door stood in front of them that needed to be opened. It was numbered Sub 66. The VIP flipped his card, but nothing happened. Flipping it again, the VIP swore.
"God dammit, what does one have to do to get proper clearance." he tossed the card on the ground next to Clyco in frustration. The soldier picked it up and put it in his pocket, for it was the key to his suitcase if he needed to get it off his arm quickly.
"Control we are having an access issue down in Sub 66... it won't acknowledge our clearance," Cardon spoke into his radio. There was nothing but static.
"Clyco, go find a terminal and find out what the hell is going on," Cardon ordered the younger soldier. Clyco obeyed to the best of his ability, and opened a door into a storage room.
"Nothing here sir," he told the VIP
"Keep looking, we haven't got all day," the VIP replied as he checked his watch. Clyco moved into the storage room as ordered. Behind the VIP the door opened, "Finally..." he moaned. But it wasn't control that opened it.
Out from the experimental storage room stepped out a strange cybernetic man, covered entirely with shiny metal. The sight was so impressive that the VIP just stopped and stared.
"Move back, move back!" insisted Cardon, but he didn't listen.
"You are a threat to Dragonstorm," the cyborg addressed coldly, "you must be terminated,"
"What?" asked the VIP in bewilderment. The cyborg grabbed him by the neck and broke it, killing him instantly. Cardon opened fire immeadiately with his side arm, aiming for the head and chest, but it was to no effect.
Cardon ran out of ammo and dropped his gun. The veteran soldier turned to run, but was gunned down in a hail of bullets as the cyborg targetted him with an arm mounted machine gun.
Clyco saw what happened and panicked. What was going on? He tried to duck under a table but he was too late. The Cyborg opened the door and scanned the room. It spotted Clyco lying on the ground and alive, but judged him to not be a threat to waste ammo on.
With a thudd the door closed leaving Clyco alone in the dark.
-
The corporal arrived at the control center, and found the administrator. "Corporal Stern here. What's the situation?"
-
"Greetings Corporal Stern. I am Dr. Keith Bailey. Every one you see here has been contracted by Carson City Camp to destroy a series of illegal experiments known only as 'Dragonstorm'." Dr. Bailey said.
Just then several beeps alerted Dr. Bailey to a serious issue." He turned to the monitor, which showed an experiment killing the VIP and a guard but leaving Clyco unharmed. He went up to Dr. Zanasiu and shook him awake.
"What is it?" Dr. Zanasiu asked irritably.
"A soldier just ran afoul of an experiment in the sublevels. And judging from the audio feed; it seems like that experiment was a Dragonstorm experiment." Dr. Bailey said.
Dr. Zanasiu's eyes widened. He quickly awoke Zachary, Dr. Landon and Aisha. "We've got a problem in the sublevels. The men we met from before just got [censored] over!"
Dr. Bailey then turned to Corporal Stern. "Would you mind accompanying these scientists to the site of the disturbance, corporal?"
---------------------------
Dr. Kerzach shrugged. "All I know about Dr. Holmes is that he worked in the metallurgy department. He's very hard to approach as he seems to appear and disappear at will. Not to mention he doesn't like talking. All I know about his appearance is that he is a tall, elderly man, nearly a foot taller than I am, with salt and pepper hair."
He then entered the office and in the process knocked over the desk lamp. He was surprised to find a memory stick hidden inside the base of the now broken lamp. He pocketed the memory stick.
He then exited the office and turned to Shelton. "Shelton, there's a computer in the office if you want to use it. On a side note, I found a memory stick hidden inside a desk lamp." He then chuckled. "Looks like my clumsiness helped. Had I not accidentally knocked it over I would have never found it."
-
"I'd be happy to assist; it's my duty after all." Stern replied, drawing his firearm. "Let's proceed to the site, gentlemen. Lead the way!"
-
Shelton sat at the computer and saw it wasn't yet logged in. "Dang. I can't log in until we get more passwords, or we reach Tinner's department. Or we find a computer that's already logged in. Hold on to that memory stick; I'm curious what Rawlson had to hide."
-
"Aisha, Dr. Landon stay here to guard Dr. Bailey." Dr. Zanasiu said.
With that said, he and Zachary headed out of the control room and headed towards the sublevels.
----------------
Dr. Kerzach proceeded to open every drawer and cabinet he could find in the office. He found nothing.
"Shelton, have you thoroughly searched the lab? If you have, we'll need to destroy it. We need to slow down Dragonstorm as much as possible."
-
Will do' Dr Bailey said and Aisha nodded in agreement.. they stood beside dR Bailey..
" so the guy we met was killed.. as bas this sounds, i knew he was asking for trouble' Aisha said..
-
"How are we supposed to do that?" Shelton asked. "But yeah, I'm done searching."
-
(OOC - Nick, I assume you mean Dr. Bradley. But I think Dr. Bradley is inside the ADSA headquarters.)
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "The only man left alive is one of the soldiers."
----------------------------
Dr. Kerzach flipped open his knife. "Go into the closet, grab something like a pipe or a crowbar and smash everything you see. Except things that could harm us."
He then went up to Alfred, Werner and Hans. "We're done searching but we need help doing demolitions."
Alfred nodded and headed in. He took aim at a small electric furnace and shot a few holes in the outside casing.
Dr. Kerzach hastily mixed up a batch of epoxy glue and began covering the floor outlets with the compound.
-----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and his group arrived at the entrance to the sublevels.
"Well, here we are." Dr. Zanasiu said. He checked his shotgun and his lab coat pockets. He had enough ammo for a while.
Zachary did the same.
Dr. Zanasiu then opened the door to the sublevels using his ID card. The heavy steel door slowly slid back, revealing a well lit white room with a staircase and a freight elevator.
"So which route do you want?" Zachary asked.
-
Amazed that he was still alive, Clyco rose from the ground and assessed the situation. He was in the sublevels of a restricted base with next to no clearance and a crazy cyborg was on the loose killing everyone it deemed "a threat" - things couldn't get any worse.
The entire mission was comprimised, he wouldn't be surprised if this "Dragonstorm" whoever they were had instituted the deal with the Canadian military purely to get their hands on whatever weapon they were bringing in.
It didn't matter now... if he had to explain himself to his superiors he would gladly do so, for now whatever it was was more useful in his hands then the enemy's.
With a small click Clyco swiped the access card on the suitcase he was carrying, unbolting the latches and unclipping it from his arm. It was nice to get that cold metal off his flesh.
With a slight bit of hesitation, the Srgt. unscrewed the secondary locks and opened the case.
-
(OOC: It isn't really established whether Bradley came with us to the control room or stayed behind. He could really be wherever at this point.)
"How could I say no to a crowbar?" Shelton grinned, crossing to the closet. "Gordon Freeman, reporting for--"
He flung it open. There was a variety of tools, but the spot where the crowbar should be was empty.
Grumbling slightly, Shelton grabbed a ball peen hammer. "I hate Rawlson very much right now. Guess I can take it out on his computer."
(OOC: Are we ever going to meet Rawlson? Cause it'd be funny if he grabbed the crowbar for self-defense before leaving.)
-
(OOC - Our group will encounter Rawlson for a brief moment soon. I'm not going to spoil much about the second encounter but I'll say it involves Delta Squad.)
Alfred shot up a very expensive electron microscope, then shot a computer.
Dr. Kerzach chuckled. "I see you've played Half Life, Shelton. I remember having tournaments with my friends. I just didn't think I'd be doing something like that for real." He shut off the water supply and disconnected the pipes in the sink. "We'll flood the lab later."
He then took some samples of an unusually shiny metal. "Hmm. Amorphous metal. Extremely tough but has this one flaw." He then dropped the small disks on the ground; the disks shattered like glass.
---------------------
"Stairs, it's easy to get ambushed when you're stepping out of an elevator." Dr. Zanasiu said.
He opened the door to the well lit stairwell and entered.
"Corporal Stern, be very careful around these experiments. They are extremely dangerous if provoked... and it doesn't take much to provoke some of them." Zachary said.
----------------------
Dr. Bailey kept a close eye on all the monitors. "Dr. Landon, I was wondering, how the hell did Dragonstorm remain off the computer systems for so long. I mean people would notice supplies and stuff missing, wouldn't they?"
-
"I was inspired to learn more about Half-Life after the running joke that one of my fellow scientists at the Large Hadron Collider was Gordon Freeman," explained Shelton. "It was pretty funny at the time."
(OOC: Here's (http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/terrible-news-gordon-freeman-spotted-near-large-hadron-collider/) the article if you don't already know about it.)
-
Finding no one around, Feral and Aiko slips into the room and sprinted to the main control panel. The Akita began to hack into the system, while Feral began his own work of rigging explosives around the massive room...
----------
While Dr Joe continued talking with the frightened experiment, Vic kept a close eye on Neku's vital signs. So far, there were no reinforcements, as the sub-level doors remained sealed to trap the extermination squads that were after them. "Hey Shade," he said. "You think there are anyone else here that may help us?"
(OOC: Clyco's already in the sub-levels?)
-
"Understood" Stern said to Zachary. "Might I ask what your position is in this installation?" he asked Zack.
-
(OOC - Yes, Clyco is the only survivor of an attack in the sublevels.)
"I'm an assistant to Dr. James Zanasiu." Zachary replied.
Dr. Zanasiu spotted a plate that read level 6. "We're here."
He then opened the door. The lights were off. He quickly turned on the light at the end of his shotgun. "There's no light."
Zachary did the same with his rifle.
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary carefully entered the floor. It was eerily silent.
---------------------------
Alfred and Dr. Kerzach were still destroying the lab.
Alfred activated a hydraluic press and quickly drained the hydroluic fluid.
Dr. Kerzach drained the water from a water jet cutter and ran the pump until it seized.
-
Corporal Stern drew his rifle, which was his main firearm... and kept those he was escorting in his sight... not only was it too quiet... it was as if the room was cleared to give ambushers a clear shot at whoever entered... had they stepped right into a trap?
-
"It's quiet, too quiet." Zachary muttered.
Dr. Zanasiu swept the room with his light. It showed the remnants of an intense battle: bullet casings strewn about, bodies of both experiments and Pelvanida guards.
"Hmm. Didn't Feral say he was taking a team down to the fusion reactor?" Zachary asked out loud.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "He did. These must be the troopers sent to kill him. And looking at this place it looks like they must have sent more than one."
-
Shelton smashed a Bunsen burner on his fifth swing, then watched Alfred take down the entire hydraulic press. "Show off..." he panted.
-
(OOC - Can I have the group get captured by Delta squad soon?)
Dr. Kerzach drained the water from a laser cutter's cooling system and ran the pump until it seized. He unplugged the laser cutter, removed the laser assembly, opened the casing and removed the flash lamp which he promptly tossed into another hydraulic press. He then turned the press on and let run. He then turned it off, depressurized the system and cut the hydraulic lines with his knife. He watched as the fluid began to leak out.
Alfred then proceeded to destroy the last remaining piece of equipment, a rockwell hardness tester by shooting it several times. He quickly reloaded his shotgun and shot out all but one light. "I think we're done here."
"Shelton, I disconnected the pipes. If you want me to do so, I can flood the lab." Dr. Kerzach said.
-
Suddenly, Snow's ears twitched and her gaze turned away from Neku down the halls. Something has just entered the sub-levels...
Vic looked up to notice her expression change and shouldered his submachine gun. Quietly, he moved to where Dr Joe is at and tapped her on the shoulder. Dr Joe knew this and slipped inside the room for shielding. The young experiment looked over at Dr Joe with fearful yellow eyes...
As Snow moved Neku behind a pile of crates, Vic moved forward and stared down the hall, waiting...
-
(OOC: If there's nothing else they need to find. I'm game!)
"Fire, or I guess water, away." said Shelton, setting the hammer down and massaging his cramped hand. " What now? I think we should try to find some way to get into that lab behind the cafeteria freezer."
-
Clyco could see why this gun needed such an elaborate cooling system, it was quite the monster.
Overall it was about the same size as an ordinary rifle, but it sported a futuristic sighting system and non-conventional ammunition packs. The Srgt. couldn't help but feel the power as he hefted the experimental rifle to his shoulder and took aim at a nearby storage crate for practice. He wondered what it fired.
Loading one of the ammo cartrages and clicking the sight bar into place Clyco readied the weapon for use, but was only halfway through his normal checklist when he heard footsteps outside the door...
they sounded human.
-
Zachary with Dr. Zanasiu behind him opened one of the closets only to come face to face with Sgt. Clyco.
"Sgt. Clyco? What happened?" Zachary asked.
"Corporal Stern, we've found our victim." Dr. Zanasiu called.
--------------------------
Alfred held up a key card. "This what you need? I found it taped inside the maintainence panel of the hydraulic press. I don't know why anyone would place a key card in a place you need a screwdriver to get at."
Dr. Kerzach turned the water on and a rapidly growing puddle formed under the sink. "Now we leave." He then turned to Alfred. "Nice find!"
"Hey guys! A squad's heading towards us and..." Hans began. Two gunshots were heard then silence.
At this point, Delta squad entered the room. One of the troopers spotted Alfred and fired a net at him. Alfred was entangled in the net and he tried to rip the net apart to no avail.
Two troopers immediately handcuffed Alfred and dragged him to his feet.
Delta Leader walked in, SMG at the ready.
"Well, if it isn't Shelton and his friends. Enjoying some vandalism?" she said. The remaining troopers filed in and leveled their weapons and Shelton and Dr. Kerzach.
"Well, aren't you the looker?" Dr. Kerzach said. He was staring at her face, hidden by the combat helmet.
"Silence." Delta leader replied.
Two troopers then handcuffed Dr. Kerzach and Shelton. "You and all your friends are coming with us."
Hans and Werner were outside the door, their weapons had been confiscated and they were handcuffed.
Delta leader picked up Alfred's shotgun. She along with the rest of the troopers lead the group out of the lab at gunpoint.
-
Two of the guards rifled through Shelton and Kerzach's pockets, taking any equipment they found.
Shelton's guard came away with an aspirator and a flash drive. "What's on this flash drive?" the guard demanded.
Shelton glared back. "My grandma's secret recipes. They're a family heirloom."
"Don't make me hit you," snarled the guard. He took the flash drive to Delta Leader. "Found this on the human one. He won't say what's on it."
-
What is taking those guys so long' Aisha grumbled as she and dr landon waited, unaware that many of their team had just been captured.. this was a bad break for them, as it put pressure on aisham dr landon, zaniusu and the others not to suffer the sane fate..
-
"We'll find out when we take them to the prison." Delta Leader replied, pocketing the flash drive.
Dr. Kerzach's guard pocketed the knife and Leatherman tool he found on him.
The guards of Alfred, Werner, and Hans stripped them of their weapons and ammunition.
After a few minutes, Delta leader marched the group over to a utility closet in the male's restroom.
"A bathroom closet?" Dr. Kerzach spat. "Real secure."
Delta Leader put her SMG to Dr. Kerzach's head. "Shut up or I kill you."
She then headed over to the utility sink and turned the hot and cold water faucets on in a pattern, the sound of water striking the sink produced a distinct rhythm. Soon a beep was heard and the wall next to the sink, which was blank save for a binder containing the MSDS of the cleaning solutions, swung outwards. The short well-lit hallway lead to a large freight elevator.
"Go in." Delta Leader said coldly.
"Holy [censored]." Alfred said. "I knew about this."
"Shut up and move!" Delta leader shouted.
The guards then forced the entire group into the freight elevator, which was the size of a small room.
Delta leader pushed a button and the elevator door closed and it began to descend.
------------------------
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "I don't know. They don't have radios. Or if they took them from a lab, I don't know which scientist the radios are assigned to."
-
Corporal Stern continued escorting his group... when suddenly, he saw a flash of light... the reflection of the sun against... a firearm?!
"Everyone, get down!" he yelled.
-
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary immediately dropped prone. "Who is it?"
-
Still, it shouldn't be taking them this long..' Aisha said.. 'what if they've been caught.. or.. worse..'
-
"Back off... I've got a big gun and I'm not afraid to use it," called out Clyco as a group of stranged barged into his closet. They could be friendly, but with all the crap he'd seen so far it paid to be careful.
"Primary Target set," called out a computerized voice from his gun, "secondary targets assimilated and compensated," on the tac screen he could see crosshairs appeared on all three of the strangers, and two of them were on the ground behind the wall... all he had to do was pull the trigger to get all three of them,
"Idenify yourselves!" Srgt. Clyco added.
-
"I am Dr. James Zanasiu." James called out. He was still prone.
"I am Zachary Johnson." Zachary replied. "Is this Sgt. Clyco?" He too was still prone.
--------------------------------
Dr. Bailey gulped. "If they've been caught... I don't know what to say. They're on their own if that happens. Luckily, Hans, Werner and Alfred are quite tough characters. I'm sure they'll make it out alive."
--------------------------------
The elevator stopped and Delta squad marched the group to a cell block. There she placed Shelton and Kerzach in one cell, Hans and Werner in another and Alfred in another.
"Have a nice day." Delta leader said sarcastically. She took her squad and left.
There were only two guards in the cell block and both appeared to be unarmed.
Dr. Kerzach examined the prison. It was solid stainless steel with just a simple metal toilet and sink installed. The locks were a simple key mechanism.
-
"At least they didn't torture us this time," Shelton muttered to Kerzach under his breath. He looked around. "I got out of one of these before. Problem is, I was in a laboratory. Not much to work with this time."
-
"This is Srgt Clyco,my escort force is KIA and my mission is compromised," the soldier lowered his weapon, and like that the targetting device disengaged. This gun was pretty high tech - he was sure to get bashed back home if they found out he was using it.
"Protocol doesn't cover situations like this, so I am inclined to offer my aid to you people, provided you tell me more about what the hell is going on here,"
-
Dr. Zanasiu got back to his feet. "The base is in lockdown due to us. As I stated before, we were contracted by Carson City Camp to destroy a series of illegal experiments known only as Dragonstorm. In addition, various security squads are after us as well." He then radioed Dr. Bailey. "Doc B, this is Doc Z, we have found our missing person."
"Roger that. Doc B out."
"That was Dr. Bailey, our command source if you will. We'll introduce you to him and he'll orient you to everything that's going on."
-----------------------
Dr. Bailey then turned to Aisha. "James has found our missing person."
-----------------------
Dr. Kerzach looked at the toilet. "If we can cause some sort of serious disturbance then the guards will have to investigate. We can subdue them and take their keys." he whispered
He then looked under the sink and noticed that a bolt was loose. "See if there are any loose screws or anything we can use." he whispered. "All we've got is a metal bed frame with a mattress, a metal toilet and a metal sink."
-
tell them that alfred and the others are missing and presumed captured' Aisha said. " Tell them to get here as fast as possible.."
-
"So some of your security teams are against us too?" Clyco asked, "I'd say going anywhere in this place is dangerous at the moment... especially for just a casual meeting."
Clyco stood in salute,
"But if you insist I shalt obey."
And the soldier followed the scientists out of the bloody corridor.
-
Most of the team back near the cells are able to hear talking across the sub-levels, but none were close enough to even recognize the voices let alone see. Vic continued to wait and watch...
----------
The two assassins reached the main door to the fusion room. The human tried the access panel, but it doesn't even blink. The door was hacked to prevent normal entrance. But no matter.
While the human pulled out her automatic handguns, the Cobra positioned himself across the door, and began to pull the door from its heavy iron hinges with all the muscles in his body...
----------
The sudden sound of screeching metal reached the ears of Feral and Aiko, and the Panther had to halt on his job to grab his rifle. "Keep at the computer!" he hissed. "This place needs to go down..."
----------
Ariol suddenly appears before Delta Squad. He had left the rest of his unit to the sub-levels. "I take it you found someone?"
-
Delta Leader nodded. "We captured several people who were in the process of destroying Dr. Rawlson's lab."
------------------
Dr. Bailey nodded and radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc Z, the others are missing and are presumed to be captured, report to the control room immediately."
-------------------
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and turned to his group. "So of our team members have been captured. We need to return to the control room as fast as possible."
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary then made their way towards the stairs.
-
(OOC:Still working on the Escape-the-cell problem. Asking some friends who are ETR aficionados. Do have any specific solutions in mind?)
-
(OOC - I was thinking of Shelton and Kerzach causing some kind of serious disturbance like a fight or a flood, then subduing the guard and stealing the keys.)
Dr. Kerzach was busy removing loose bolts from the toilet and sink.
He slid the bolts behind the bed so that the guards wouldn't see them.
Alfred in the meantime was hurling profanities and threats at the two guards.
-
' I just hope the guys are alright" Aisha said, sitting down in an open chair. ' they're on thier own, we don't even know where they are, so a rescue mission would likely be fruitness at best, counterproductive at worst.."
-
"I'm thinking a flood will do it," Shelton muttered, "though it sounds like you've already thought of that. If we can get the mattress soaked, it'll be a great thing to hit the guards with, since neither of us are strong enough to punch them out."
-
"You do realize that as a Cassowary, I have talons? Though, I don't think I can pierce their armor." Dr. Kerzach muttered. "But let's get a flood started."
He took the toilet paper and shoved as much as possible down the drain, making sure to clog the overflow drain as well. He then shoved the remainder of the toilet paper down the toilet. He turned on the faucets on the sink. Soon the sink began to overflow.
"Shelton the mattress!" He whispered. Dr. Kerzach then hastily grabbed the loose bolts and threw them in his lab coat.
-
Silently thanking Alfred for keeping the guards distracted, Shelton immersed the mattress in the pool of water slowly forming in the cell floor. When it was full, he lugged it back onto the bed with a grunt. "I certainly wouldn't want to get hit by this. We'll both need to swing it to get enough force, and even then we'll need to be fast to get their weapons before they recover."
-
Corporal Stern continued his escort. They had all been caught off-guard once... luckily, it was nothing dangerous... but they couldn't keep counting on such luck... had that been a group of enemies, they could ALL be KIA.
-
Dr. Kerzach drew a bolt from his pocket an hurled it at one of the guards.
The guard immediately turned around and headed over to Dr. Kerzach and Shelton.
"You got a lot of nerve you ugly bird!" he guard shouted.
"Well, I did that because there's a problem, the cell's flooded!"
The guard called the other guard over.
Dr. Kerzach stood by a corner of the bed and winked at Shelton.
-
"I'll call Delta leader," said the second guard, taking out his radio.
"What, you aren't smart enough to figure it out yourself?" retorted Shelton. "They obviously don't set the bar very high for getting into security corps."
The guard put the radio down. "You know what, that's the second time you've shown lip to me! I've had it!"
"Woah, let's calm down!" exclaimed the first guard. "I know how to fix--"
"Yeah, listen to your pal, John McClane," interrupted Shelton, "Cause I'd kick your ass if you entered this cell."
The second guard angrily unlocked the cell door, flung it open, and stomped in.
In a split second, Shelton realized the first guard was slightly smarter and wasn't going to follow. Oh well.
"Now! Heave!" he yelled, swinging his side of the mattress with all his might.
(OOC: Kerzach can grab the knocked out guard's weapon and kill/hold hostage the remaining guard.)
-
"Zachery! You mind telling me where it is I am escorting you to?" Corporal Stern queried. "If we keep wandering around like this, there's no telling what might happen to us."
-
"We're heading to the control room." Zachary replied as the group was climbing up the stairs.
Soon, they left the sublevel entrance and hastily made their way back to the control room.
"We're back." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Good." Dr. Bailey said. He then activated the .50 caliber machine gun turrets.
"What happened?" Zachary asked.
"Most of our team has been captured. We'll need you to stay here in case the other troopers are looking for you." Dr. Bailey said.
--------------------------
Dr. Kerzach did the same with his end of the mattress.
The second guard had removed his can of pepper spray and brandished it. "I'm going to... Oh sh..." He was unable to finish his sentence before them sodden mattress landed on top of him.
The first guard, who remained outside the cell, pulled out his radio but Dr. Kerzach seized the can of pepper spray dropped by the second guard and pepper sprayed him.
While the guard was screaming in agony, Dr. Kerzach pushed him inside the cell. He quickly grabbed the keys inside the lock on the outside of the door.
"Shelton, I've got the keys!" Dr. Kerzach called.
-
Shelton grabbed both of the guard's radios, getting a slap to the face and a kick to the side for his effort. He stumbled out of the cell. "Lock 'em up!" he yelled. "They won't be contacting anybody soon!"
-
Dr. Kerzach quickly locked the cell door and hastily freed Alfred, Hans and Werner.
"You know, I think we're actually inside the Dragonstorm base." Dr. Kerzach said.
"I think we are too but we need to get out of here." Alfred said.
"Agreed." Hans said.
Werner peeked outside the hallway. It was empty. "We're clear!"
Dr. Kerzach, Alfred, Werner and Hans quickly darted down the hall.
-
As he approached the control room with the rest, Corporal Stern noticed the smell of ozone... as if there had been a firefight or an explosion not too far away. "Did anything happen here?"
-
"...they're gone..."
Dr Joe looked to see that the experiment did speak. It must be his super sensitive ears. "You know who they are? Or what they said?"
The Fennec fox shifted positions to face her. "I don't know..."
"Don't worry. At least we're safe now."
----------
The Cobra assassin continued to slowly open the bolted door to get inside. The human readies herself for when they enter...
----------
"Live prisoners will be too much of a hassle with these do-gooders running around," Ariol replied. "You'll have to go back and kill them."
-
Shelton followed the others. "We don't want to search around for a translator or maybe unencrypted information?" he asked. "This is our best chance yet to find some good stuff on Dragonstorm."
(OOC: I remember Mirumoto mentioned sometime back that Dragonstorm is somehow leaving the base in thirty minutes. That might be a good thing for our heroes to find out.)
-
(OOC: It was either 30 minutes or 3 hours when transports will come to remove Dragonstorm.)
-
Srgt. Clyco entered the control room behind Zachary, Dr. Zanasiu, and Corpral Stern.
As the machine gun turrets activated he finally felt safe - and sat down in an empty operator's seat. He clicked open the magazine of his experiemental rifle, which he still didn't know anything about, and set about trying to figure out what it was good for.
Half way through disassembly Clyco was amazed that nobody in the room had asked him about it yet.
-
Dr. Bradley saddled up next to him. "Say, that looks pretty expensive. I work in Experimental Weaponry, and I can tell a prototype when I see it. What is that?"
-
With a final click Clyco reassembled the rifle, and looked up to answer,
"Well actually I'm not entirely sure about..."
"I am a Pisces Model IV Spectrum Rifle, one of four prototypes, and my database shows that I am currently registered with the US Army Corps experimental weapons division selection #17."
The Srgt. was amazed as the gun answered the question for him. He knew it had an automated response system inside from the earlier targetting of the doctor and his group, but he didn't know it was an AI.
Clyco shrugged at Dr. Bradley, there was nothing else he could add.
-
(OOC - It was 3 hours.)
Delta Leader nodded. "I'm on it."
She then rushed to the cell block only to find all but 1 cell open, that 1 cell flooded and with 2 guards in it.
Delta leader immediately freed the two guards.
"What the hell happened?!" she demanded.
"The two scientists in this cell ambushed us and escaped." the first guard said. His eyes were still closed.
She turned to the other guard. "Lead him to the infirmary." She then turned to her squad. "Find and kill them."
She and her squad then moved out of the cell block.
--------------------------------
Dr. Bailey nodded. "There was in fact a firefight between us and the previous control admin, Dr. Branston, and his technicians."
--------------------------------
"We're totally unarmed. There's a very good chance that the scientists here are armed." Dr. Kerzach said.
"I hear footsteps." Alfred said.
"We'll have to steal some weapons then." Hans replied.
-
Dr. Bradley was impressed. "Pisces AI, please register Dr. Fenton Bradley, US Military Base Pelvanida, Experimental Weaponry senior scientist. If security clearance is sufficient, please disclose unit specifications and capabilities."
__________________________________
"Keep that pepper spray handy until then," Shelton said, making sure to keep Kerzach between him and the footsteps.
-
Dr. Kerzach shook the can. "It's almost empty; I used quite a bit on that guard."
Alfred simply flexed his muscles.
Hans nodded. "I am trained in close quarters battle techniques."
The footsteps faded away and Werner looked outside. "Let's get moving."
The group then darted down to another hallway. Near the hallway was a sealed door. Everyone was crouched behind some empty 55 gallon drums of lubricant.
"Think that's the armory but we need some way to get in." Dr. Kerzach said.
As he spoke a wiry Ostrich, quite obviously a Dragonstorm scientist, walked down the halls. As he passed the maintainence hallway, Dr. Kerzach leapt from behind the drums and pepper sprayed the scientist, causing him to collapse to the ground in agony. Dr. Kerzach quickly gagged the scientist with his hands. "Hans, some help?"
Hans came out and strangled the scientist before his screaming could alert anyone else.
Dr. Kerzach took the man's ID card and opened the armory. Inside were a multitude of weapons.
"Wow." Alfred said. He grabbed his favorite weapon, a Remington 870 shotgun and an ammo pouch which he filled with shells.
Hans and Werner grabbed H&K MP7 submachine guns and several magazines of ammo.
"You'll need a weapon." Werner said to Dr. Kerzach.
"I can't shoot." Dr. Kerzach said.
Werner handed a Beretta Px4 Storm pistol and several magazines to Shelton. "For you."
Alfred, Werner and Hans were busy loading their weapons.
"What about the dead scientist?" Werner asked.
"Shove him in one of those barrels." Alfred replied.
-
"You don't know me well enough yet?" Shelton put on a chest holster and hid the pistol under his coat. "I'm not endangering any lives by firing this thing, but I will hold onto it in case one of you needs a swap-out later during a firefight."
(OOC: If you ever need Shelton's pistol, just ask for it and then you can write that he silently passes it over.)
-
Dr. Kerzach nodded. "You don't need to fire it. If you need to, you can threaten a scientist or a worker with the pistol. If things get ugly, Hans, Werner or Alfred will step in."
-
(OOC: Oh. I don't know my weaponry names very well, and assumed it was a rifle. You can change it back; a pistol actually makes more sense to give to a scientist. Don't the rules say a scientist can't carry heavy arms?)
-
(OOC - Rifles are considered small arms. I removed the rule about scientists not being able to use heavy weapons because I had Zachary <classed as a scientist> using a bazooka then an RPG in the original RP. I will indeed change it back to a pistol.)
-
(OOC: You'll need to change Kerzach's line about intimidation too. Hmm. Maybe somebody will underestimate Shelton in the future, thinking he's unarmed...)
"Yeah, and then the worker or scientist shoots me," said Shelton. "But I admit I do feel a little better with, if nothing else, a hard object to club people with."
-
(OOC - Hey, a reference to Schroedinger's Prisoner's where Shelton pistol-whips Zanasiu.)
"I doubt the janitors, mechanics or cooks are armed." Dr. Kerzach said, "But it isn't uncommon for scientists to carry pistols, even before the terrorist attack. Hell, I knew some scientists who kept shotguns or rifles in a closet in their lab."
-
So whats the plan? Sit here and wait// or do we do sonething to help" Aisha said, getting bored with just suiiting around.
-
The door finally opened wide enough for the human to angle a small mirror into the fusion reactor room...only to have the mirror shot out of her hand by a heavy bullet round. She cursed and reached for a grenade, pulling the pin and tossing it through the crack...
Aiko and Feral immediately took cover as the grenade bounced twice before exploding. Thankfully, it was not close enough to the generators or Aiko's equipment.
"What was that for?!" the Cobra hissed. "You could have killed us if it had hit a generator!"
"Well see if you don't get pissed if someone nearly blown your damn hand off!"
"Vic, Snow," Feral called in via radio. "I need someone down here to give some cover!"
----------
"Neku's still in critical, Commander," Vic replied as he got back to the experiments. "Snow and Shade could be able to help you out."
"...Send Shade. His powers are less hazardous in the power room."
-
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "We can't go searching for them. We could walk right into an ambush."
"Wait, there's one place they could be if they were captured. I found a passage in the freezer that could only be opened with a keycard." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Dr. Bailey grinned. "So all we need to do is find a scientist, steal their keycard, enter through the passageway and free the group?"
Dr. Zanasiu nodded.
Dr. Bailey immediately bought up a map of the cafeteria. "If there is a passage behind the freezer. You're totally on your own. The sensors and map don't show anything other than a solid wall."
"It's a risk we'll have to take. " Zachary said.
-
Shelton made sure the pistol was secure and not readily visible underneath his coat. "Where now?" he asked. "It'd be a shame if we left without taking advantage of how far we've penetrated their defenses. Plus with all this firepower we could probably take anything that comes our way."
-
(OOC - Anyone can take Dr. Gallo for the fight vs. Dr. Kerzach)
Alfred and Hans had finished stuffing the dead scientist into the drum. The group then continued down the hallway.
"I'd say go for a lab." Dr. Kerzach said as soon as they were finished disposing of the dead scientist.
After a few minutes of walking through the rather empty halls; Dr. Kerzach noticed a name plate on a door. It read "Dr. Bradley Gallo".
He gently pushed the door open. There was no response. Alfred, Werner and Hans swept the room with their SMGs. The room was totally empty.
"Alfred, Werner, Hans. Stand guard." Dr. Kerzach said. "Shelton, see if the main lab has some data. I'll take the office."
Alfred, Werner and Hans did as they were told.
Meanwhile, Dr. Kerzach entered the office. He gulped as he realized that the door automatically shut behind him. He then started rooting through the desk drawer. All that he found was writing utensils, paper clips and other assorted office materials.
Unfortunately, he got a very rude surprise when he opened the tall cabinet and a tall dark brown Sussex Chicken suddenly exploded from the cabinet, knocking Dr. Kerzach to the ground and pinning him.
"Get out of my lab, Kerzach!" the Chicken shouted.
"Why should I? You're the one running illegal experiments, Gallo!" Dr. Kerzach countered. "And how the hell do you know my name?!"
"Simple, Hicks told me about you!" Dr. Gallo replied.
Dr. Kerzach said nothing but instead pecked Dr. Gallo in the face, drawing blood and forcing Dr. Gallo to release him.
Dr. Kerzach then leapt to his feet and tried to open the door but Dr. Gallo tackled him and began punching him.
Dr. Kerzach took several punches to the face before he managed to knee Dr. Gallo in the stomach, allowing him to peck Dr. Gallo several times forcing him to let go.
Dr. Kerzach said nothing but leapt at Dr. Gallo, his deadly claws slashing. Dr. Gallo managed to avoid getting stabbed by Dr. Kerzach's claws by quickly leaping backwards. However it was not enough fully avoid his claws: the front of Dr. Gallo's lab coat received two long gashes. Dr. Gallo then grabbed Dr. Kerzach.
"Think you're the only one with talons?" Dr. Gallo taunted. He then scraped his spur, which he had capped with a metal knife, down Dr. Kerzach's leg.
Luckily, Dr. Kerzach only suffered a light gash running down the entire length of his leg and the fact that his pant leg was almost cut in half. He then got loose by elbowing Dr. Gallo in the stomach repeatedly.
-
"Searching... core clearance granted, welcome Dr. Bradley," The AI addressed the doctor, "fingerprint verification is required for activation sequence."
Clyco got up and relucantly handed the Spectrum Gun to the doctor. He had been hoping for the chance to try it out, but it looked like he had got his hopes up for nothing. The Doctor would surely insist it be returned to it's proper place.
-
Bradley's eyes lit up as he took the weapon. "Very nice," he said, examining the outer casing. "This prototype will revolutionize military technology. . . Pisces, under my authorization, please clear Sgt... what was your name again?" he asked the man who had brought the gun.
-----------------------------
"Excellent," grinned Shelton, as he saw the lab computer was already logged in. "Time to get some good stuff. Wish they'd let me keep that flash drive."
He quickly discerned the security clearance of whoever was logged into the computer, and checked out the highest level of documents they were cleared for.
"Mm. Hmm. Mmmm..." he murmured to himself, scanning all the data he could find. "Looks like Lab 101 is less of a lab than a mobile home."
He got up to go find Kerzach and tell him what he'd just discovered, when a flashing tab caught his eye.
It was an appointment reminder. Shelton opened it, to see what it said.
"Operation Exodus, Phase One. Five minutes ago..."
He quickly checked out Operation Exodus. It required massive security clearance, but luckily this person was registered as a tower.
A tower. . .
Shelton immediately leapt up and ran to get Kerzach. "Kerzach!" he yelled. "They're moving--" He broke off as he entered the lab to see the two scientists facing off.
-
"...Clyco," the sergeant added.
"Negative, my database contains no entity of such identification. Further authorization is needed for activation." The Pisces replied.
Clyco was pissed off now. He had carried this gun for hundreds of miles to escort it to the site, only to have it reject him by name. Clearly this wasn't like Doom or Duke Nukem where you could just pick up a big gun and start blasting away at the aliens. This was real life, and unfortunately real life had rules.
"Could I see it please Dr. Bradly," the Canadian Srgt. asked. He had an idea.
-
Right, then we'll just have to wait and hope.. " Aisha said, starting to eat h\the second baloney sandwich she had stored away..
-
Dr. Kerzach turned to Shelton. "Get more data! I've got this under control!" He ducked a punch from Dr. Gallo and slammed into him, knocking him into the bookshelf.
He then grabbed the stunned Dr. Gallo by the collar.
"What is Operation Exodus?" Dr. Kerzach demanded.
"Your friend found out! Ask him!" Dr. Gallo replied. He then pecked Dr. Kerzach's hands, drawing blood and forcing him to let go. "Oh, I forgot, you're busy dealing with me!"
Dr. Kerzach said nothing but kicked at Dr. Gallo. Unfortunately, Dr. Gallo managed to grab his foot and twist it, forcing him to the ground. Dr. Gallo then quickly sat on Dr. Kerzach and removed the knife that capped his spur and held it to his throat. "Any last requests?"
Dr. Kerzach used one hand to try and fend off Dr. Gallo's knife hand while his other hand groped around for something to use as a weapon. He eventually grabbed a steel letter opener, which had been knocked down from the desk during the brawl, and plunged it into Dr. Gallo's chest. Dr. Gallo's eyes widened and his grip began to weaken. Dr. Kerzach pushed the dying scientist off of him and stumbled out of the office.
"Gallo's...dead." Dr. Kerzach panted. His clothing was torn and his feathers were matted with blood, both his own and Dr. Gallo's. In addition, his beak and face were bloody as well. He then began washing up in the sink.
-----------------
Dr. Bradley handed the gun over.
-
"Holy crap, what are you, a Green Beret?" Shelton stammered. "Remind me to never switch sides with you in the room!"
"What's all this about Operation Exodus?" asked Werner, as he and the others entered the room.
"Oh, right." Shelton explained. "Dragonstorm, as we know, is based in Lab 101. Since Kerzach and I breached Lab 101, they've realized that we pose an actual threat to the project. That's why when Lab 101 was built, it was designed with wheels and whatnot, so it could split off from the rest of base. What's happening right now is everything Dragonstorm related is being shipped to Lab 101, which will be seperated from the base and towed to safety. And Phase One has already started."
-
Dr. Kerzach had finished washing up and retreated into a back closet to change into Dr. Gallo's spare clothing. He tossed his tattered and bloody clothes in a back corner. He then winked at Shelton. "When a pissed off rooster's holding a knife to your throat, you can do some pretty crazy things."
"So that's why this area's so deserted!" Werner said.
"Wait if Lab 101 is basically a giant trailer, couldn't we just destroy the towing vehicle and strand Lab 101 here? Then we call in the US military and have the evidence just staring them in the face?" Alfred proposed.
"How do we know what's doing the towing? And what if that part is self propelled?" Werner countered. "We can't simply blow up every semi cab heading into Pelvanida."
"I think we should worry about that later and figure out how to get out." Dr. Kerzach said. He then spotted a flash drive near Dr. Gallo's body. He returned to the room, grabbed the flash drive and went back to the group.
Dr. Kerzach examined the flash drive. It had the name "B. Gallo" engraved on the side. "I got Gallo's flash drive. We'll look at it when we return."
-
"You know," said Shelton. "The guy logged into the Dragonstorm computer was heading to Lab 101 as a tower. I have the necessary paperwork and code words on his computer. We could change into worker outfits, and pretend to be working for Dragonstorm. Easy way to get in."
"I think they'd recognize us." said Werner.
"Not me," Shelton grinned. "My face has been covered in ash since they saw me. Plus my lab coat has hidden my body proportions. Just give me a razor, a sink, a new uniform and some Clark Kents and I'll be a new man."
(OOC: A 'car chase' of sorts might be cool, with our heroes chasing after it in stolen vehicles. I'd want Shelton to get into Lab 101 first.)
-
Stern looked around the lab. Asking anyone who was there with him, he spoke "Does anyone need an armed escort? I've been left in this lab with little else to do... and the situation clearly isn't resolved. If there is another mission to fulfill, I am formally requesting it now."
-
Dr. Zanasiu spoke. "I'm going to explore the passageway behind the freezer. Who's coming?"
"I am." Zachary said, grabbing his rifle.
"Sorry, I have to work with this new gun." Dr. Bradley said.
Dr. Bailey nodded. "Okay but keep in mind that I can't help you once you're back there. I should still be able to keep in radio contact with you."
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary checked their radios.
"Wait, did you say that the door is locked?" Zachary said.
Dr. Zanasiu facepalmed. "Damn it! I forgot! Scratch that. We'll first need to find a Dragonstorm scientist and get the keycard from them, by force if needed."
"Aisha, Dr. Tennes, Corporal Stern, Sgt. Clyco, one of you will need to stay behind to guard Dr. Bailey." Zachary said.
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "I'll be fine. I've got .50 caliber machine gun autoturrets and heavy blast doors to protect me." He then looked at the autoturret monitor.
-
I'm Comming with ' Aisha said ' Dr landon got up as well " I'm coming too, I feel useless just sitting around here.."
-
Shelton checked out the restroom connected to the laboratory. "Looks good," he said. "Nothing resembling a razor, though."
"I can do it," said Hans, twirling his knife.
Shelton's face paled. "That's okay, Hans. Really--"
"What are you afraid of? This was how we shaved when we were holed in caves in the Nevadan desert. You saw I had no facial hair at Pelvanida."
"Well, okay..."
Shelton and Hans exited into the bathroom, spare uniform folded on Shelton's arm. Ten minutes later, Hans and someone unrecognizable from Dr. Shelton came out.
The grey uniform fit well, and without the ash and unkempt beard, Shelton looked totally different. The sunglasses completed the picture.
"Great," said Shelton, reading the printout from the computer. "I've got until I reach Lab 101 to memorize everything on this page." He looked up. "You guys coming with, or are you gonna provide outside back up?"
-
Corporal Stern too up his position behind the doctor, and drew his firearm, ready to defend...
-
Dr. Zanasiu left the control room and Dr. Bailey locked down the control room.
--------------------
"The halls are really empty. There's no one here." Zachary said.
"There has to be something going on." Dr. Zanasiu said. "Which means getting that keycard just got harder."
---------------------
"I'll come." Dr. Kerzach said.
"I'll come as well." Alfred said.
Dr. Kerzach looked at himself. He noticed that the stolen lab coat even had Dr. Gallo's name embroidered on it. "Hmm. All I need is a pair of goggles or something to conceal my face." he said.
Alfred tossed Dr. Kerzach a pair of safety glasses that looked like mirrored sunglasses.
Dr. Kerzach quickly donned them. He also found two of Gallo's spur-knives in a drawer, which quickly taped onto his feet using surgical tape.
Alfred donned a grey jumpsuit and a combat helmet he found in a closet. He then put on a pair of mirrored safety glasses that obscured his eyes.
Dr. Kerzach then turned to Shelton. "I think Alfred and I may have some problems with our disguises."
Alfred nodded. "That's the advantage that Humans have over anthros, you can change your appearances very easily. But I'll have to hope that the helmet, goggles and jumpsuit do the trick."
Dr. Kerzach then looked at Shelton. "You'd better hope Delta Leader doesn't sniff you out."
Alfred hefted his shotgun. "If she does, the last thing she'll smell is gunpowder."
-
"I just need thirty more seconds before I can shut the power down!" Aiko said over the screaming metal of the door.
"Make sure it's down before they get in!" Feral shouted.
The Cobra was nearly half-way done with removing the door wide enough for them to get through. The woman stood ready with smoke grenades...
----------
Ariol's cell goes off as he travels to meet with his party, now split into two more teams to search the base. The call was from the transports. 2 hours till landing...
(OOC: Something happened to Starfall?)
-
"We're going to stay out of sight, but know we've got your back. We'll keep an eye on Lab 101 and try to cut any cables or whatnot. Be sure to radio us if need be," said Werner, and Hans nodded akin.
Shelton nodded. "Thanks."
"We're glad to know you're covering us," Alfred agreed.
Shelton waved his hand at a passage. "This way," he said, and led the way towards Lab 101.
Their route took them past the room with the crashed copter. Shelton held them up, digging through the cockpit.
"What are you looking for?" asked Alfred.
"Aha!" Shelton dug a radio-flashlight out of the wreckage. "I've been missing this thing." He checked to make sure it still worked, and clipped it to his utility belt. "I guess I'm glad it was never around to get confiscated. Now we can keep going."
(OOC: What's the two hours for? whast ahpppens in two hours?"
-
(OOC - I assume Starfall is busy.)
(OOC - The 2 hours are when the transports land to take the Dragonstorm experiments away.)
Alfred looked around the halls. "It's really quiet. "
"We'd better hustle to Lab 101 or they'll leave without us." Dr. Kerzach whispered.
Just then two scientists wearing powered armor passed by the group. The two scientists were carrying a large silver pod with wires and tubes protruding from it between them.
They nodded to the gathered group and continued on their way. Soon the mechanical whirring and stomping of the exoskeletons faded away.
"We'd better get moving." Hans said.
Hans, Dr. Kerzach, Werner and Alfred made their way closer to Lab 101 when a familiar shape caught their eyes.
"[censored]! It's Delta Leader!" Werner whispered.
-
"Act natural!" hissed Shelton, even though he was cursing inside. He snapped off a salute. "Dr. Storke, clearance level omega, reporting to towing duty! Codeword: 'glorious!'"
-
Delta Leader frowned. "Hmm. I don't recall a Dr. Storke. I'll call cont..." She then sniffed the air. "Dr. Storke, could you come with me? I need to speak to you in private."
-
"Yessir! Ma'am! Yes ma'am!" Shelton quickly marched into the vacant laboratory. He turned around.
-
Delta Leader aimed her SMG at Shelton. "Well, Dr. Storke, or should I say Shelton? Do you have any last requests before I shoot?"
She activated her helmet mounted radio. "The group outside are intruders. Kill them."
----------------------
The remaining troopers of Delta Squad readied their weapons.
"Get to cover!" Hans shouted. He dove behind a crate that had yet to be moved.
Alfred did the same, diving into an empty lab.
Werner followed Alfred.
Alfred, Werner and Hans fired at the troopers.
-
Shelton cowered into a ball. "Well, I'm not a big fan of death..."
Suddenly a plethora of shots rang out, randomly hitting Delta Leader and most of the wall behind her.
Shelton slowly got up, finished emptying the clip, and stood over the fallen Delta Leader, hidden pistol clutched in both hands. "...but you left me no choice. And I am out of time."
Hearing the fire from the original room, Shelton took an alternate exit and raced towards Lab 101.
-
Dr. Kerzach, crouched beside Hans and Werner, heard the gunshots. "Do you think Shelton..." A few bullets flew overhead.
Werner shook his head. "The guy can't shoot for [censored]." He was reloading his SMG.
Hans shot one of the troopers multiple times in the chest then ducked behind the crate. "You never know. Even someone who is relatively harmless can become extremely dangerous if their life are in danger. Remember that not less than an hour ago, Dr. Kerzach killed someone with a letter opener."
Alfred reloaded his shotgun from the safety of his lab and then shot a trooper square in the head. He ducked back into the lab before they could return fire.
-
Lab 101 was in sight. Shelton increased the pace.
A survayor saw him coming. "What the hell's happening over there?" he demanded. "Where's Delta Force?"
"They've been ambushed," Shelton panted. "I barely got away!"
The man checked the roster. "And you are...?"
"Storke," Shelton panted.
"Jesus, man, you're like fifteen minutes late!" The surveyor cocked his head. "And I thought you were some kinda large bird..."
"Well, that happens with a name like Storke, you know?" Shelton grinned feebly. "But I'm here now, codeword's 'glorious'..."
"Um, Storke's not your name, it's your codename..." the man mentioned suspiciously.
"Oh, well, uh...you know what?" Shelton whipped him across the face with the pistol. He quickly looked around. Everything was so hectic; nobody seemed to have noticed him do that. Shelton grabbed the checklist and marked Storke present, then he finished his run to Lab 101.
-
Clyco took apart the gun piece by piece using a screwdriver. He intended to investigate a bit about how it worked, and the only way to do that when it wouldn't grant him clearance was the old fashioned way.
All around the control room was frantic, reacting to a developing situation that seemed to revolve around place marked "Lab 101".
If Clyco was obligated to, he would have gone down there to fight himself, but as it was he wasn't risking his life for a cause he didn't fully understand yet. It was better to simply wait for word from his superiors back home, and act on the orders once they were given.
Unless of course things went to hell in the control room - but with the gun turrets guarding the doors it didn't look like that was going to happen anytime soon.
-
As Alfred, Werner and Hans killed the last of the troopers, Dr. Kerzach bolted for Lab 101.
He entered the lab and a supervisor stopped him. "Who are you?"
"Dr. Ross. Codeword, glorious." Dr. Kerzach said.
The supervisor nodded and checked off Ross on his clipboard. He then radioed Dr. Branston. "The last scientists are loaded."
------------------------------
Dr. Branston who was inside the Dragonstorm base received the transmission. He grabbed a portable radio and took the secret elevator to Lab 101. He then radioed Ariol.
"Ariol, I am in Lab 101. The key scientists and experiments are in Lab 101. We are preparing for extraction." Dr. Branston said. He then sat down at a console and sealed the lab. The heavy steel doors slid shut and the click of the electronic locks engaging could be heard.
------------------------------
Alfred, Werner and Hans got up and looked for Shelton and Dr. Kerzach.
"Shelton, Kerzach? Where are you?" Alfred asked.
Hans entered the lab where he saw Shelton being taken into. All that was in there was the bullet riddled body of Delta Leader. "Shelton's alive but he's gone."
Alfred and Werner searched all the nearby labs.
"Kerzach's gone too." Alfred said, poking his head out of a lab.
--------------------------
At the same time, Zachary's group was searching the area.
Zachary noticed Alfred, Werner and Hans. He poked his head inside a lab where Dr. Zanasiu was searching. "Guys, Alfred, Werner and Hans are alive!"
Dr. Zanasiu grinned. "Hey Aisha, Dr. Landon! They made it!"
-
Ariol received Dr Branston's message and then radioed one of his groups to move to Lab 101...
----------
Three of the assassins, one human, one Doberman, and one Cougar, got Ariol's call and started their way towards the lab...
----------
Ariol watched the timer as it hit the single digit numbers before grabbing his gun and taking cover behind the console.
Feral waited with his rifle on the collapsing door.
The Cobra was nearly finished ripping the door out of the way, his human counterpart eager to jump inside for the kill.
The timer reaches the final seconds of the countdown: 5...4...3...2...1...
(OCC: I'll leave the magic to Serris.)
-
As the timer counted down, several explosions ripped through the reactor silo. The explosions shattered the fusion reactor's powerful magnets and scored its armor plating. Without a means to confine the plasma, it became too cool to sustain a fusion reaction. The backup diesel generators were also reduced to piles of scrap metal.
---------------------------
The lights in Lab 101 flickered for a moment, then completely died.
"Switching over to secondary fusion reactor!" Dr. Branston called. He flipped a clear plastic cover and pushed a button that allowed Lab 101 to connect to the Dragonstorm base's fusion reactor.
---------------------------
Dr. Bailey cursed as the lights died. He grabbed his radio and radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc Z, the power's dead. Get back to the control room! We can't risk you getting caught off guard. Not to mention I need protecting! The autoturrets don't work!"
----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu picked up the radio and listened to the transmission. He nodded and turned on a flashlight mounted at the muzzle of his weapon. Zachary followed.
"Should be ignore him?" Dr. Zanasiu asked, putting the radio away. He then turned to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "Do you wish to continue searching for a way to the passage in the freezer or head back to control?"
-
Aiko and Feral escaped as the explosions ripped across the reactors, Aiko's tail barely singed as he was the last through the vents back to the sub-level holding cells...
----------
The assassins ducked from the opening of the damaged door to escape the extreme heat of the explosions. "Damn! They meant to take out the base's power!" shouted the human.
"They wouldn't still be in there if they survived!" the Cobra growled. "We must get back to the rendezvous!"
----------
The lights in the holding cell finally died as the echoes of the explosion reached them. Dr Joe and Vic set on their tactical lights, and Snow emits a blue flame from her hand.
The young experiment shuddered by the turn of events, afraid to even move...
----------
The three assassins reached the lab's entrance when the lights died. They had to turn on their tactical lights to keep watch...
-
Wayne took out his phone and started pressing buttons.
"What are you doing?" asked Bradley.
"Calling the other members of ADSA," replied Wayne. "It looks like things are boiling over, and it's time to come out of the shadows and play an active role in helping Dr. Zanasiu's team stop Dragonstorm."
-
"Shelton, what are we going to do here? I can't seem to find any sort of engine room or drivetrain." Dr. Kerzach whispered.
He noticed that many of the scientists were looking at their watches.
"Any time now." A Black man in a lab coat said.
-
"I can't see anything," Shelton whispered back. "Between these sunglasses and the lights going out, I'm pretty worthless. But I don't want to chance taking them off."
He realized his hand was wet. Blood was dripping off the pistol. He quickly dropped it. "Kerzach," he whispered, "I killed Delta Leader. I didn't want to, but she didn't give me a choice. Even then, there wasn't much in that room I didn't hit."
-
"Well, I didn't want to kill Dr. Gallo but it was either that or have my throat slit." Dr. Kerzach whispered back. "In times like that, either you or your opponent dies and I'm glad it's Delta leader who died."
----------------------..
Dr. Bailey looked at Wayne. "The other members of ADSA, how can they help us in this mess? The power's out, James and his group are missing, Dr. Kerzach and Shelton are missing, the only thing that could make things worse is a full scale invasion."
-
Shelton nodded silently. "My instinct is to run from danger," he whispered. "I'm not the type to stand and fight like you or James. I didn't even think I could hit her. It took a whole clip." He flicked his flashlight on and shined it throughout the room.
"Turn that off!" snapped the man. Shelton quickly did so.
______________________________________________________
"They're scientists, and they're currently scattered all over Pelvanida Base," responded Wayne. "And now they're on the lookout for anything suspicious, and if they spot any signs of Dragonstorm, they'll alert the rest of us and do everything in their power to hinder them."
-
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, have you made your decisions yet?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"James and I are heading back to control with Alfred, Werner and Hans. We'll tell Dr. Bailey about the situation, then we'll try and get in to the lab. Granted, since Pelvanida is basically empty, we may not be able to find a scientist to kidnap." Zachary said.
-
Several squads of guards were sweeping Pelvanida for the escaped prisoners.
Two of the squads headed straight for the control room.
-------------------------------------
Dr. Bailey was looking around the room. Suddenly, he noticed several red dots heading towards the control room. "We've got company!" He then switched to the external camera. "Damn it! They're Pelvanida guards and they're after us."
Dr. Bailey immediately sealed the blast doors and activated the autoturrets. "Clyco, Stern. We've got hostiles!"
--------------------------------------
-
(OOC: Nick's been through here a few times, and I don't think he's seen your request. When is Lab 101 going to start exiting?
Also, do you need an ASDA member to radio in the position of a Dragonstorm member?)
"Lemme at them, I wanna fight!" exclaimed Riley. "I'll defend us! You using that?" he asked Clyco, pointing at the weapon.
-
(OOC - That will be great. Kenjiro's in control of the transports.)
"Those aren't scientists." Dr. Bailey said. "They're Pelvanida guards. I've scanned as many labs as I could, most of them are empty. The only lab I haven't scanned is the one that breaks the symmetry of the blast wall in the sublevels. For some reason, I can't get in there."
-
(OOC: Sorry for not posting more! I've been busy.)
"Do you need me to open the doors?" Coroporal Stern asked. "I am skilled with setting charges and blowing open barriers."
-
(OOC - It's okay.)
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "I intentionally closed the doors to this control room to stave off the troopers invading. And I have no idea what's in that lab. For all I know, it could be hiding an entire enemy platoon."
Suddenly the sound of several .50 caliber machine guns firing ripped through the air.
-
At a completely different lab, relatively close to James' team's position, head technician Martin Ng had recieved the call from Wayne. He was sneaking his way from the electrician's closet to a nearby lab.
The electrician's closet showed that many of the labs had shut down, but one lab curiously hadn't. That, coupled with Wayne's call, fueled Ng's suspicion.
It was Lab 23. The number glinted in the dim light being given off from the emergency lights.
Marty had managed to make it the entire way without encountering anybody. The base was practically abandoned. Something was going down.
The door was locked, but as head technician, he had keys to every lab in the base. fishing his giant key ring out of his pocket, he undid the lock and peered in.
Hicks was in the room, with a lemming scientist. Marty knew Hicks was working with Dragonstorm.
"Dammit, Jeston, we need these files erased!" Hicks snapped. "Everybody but us has made it to Lab 101!"
"I know!" snapped Jeston, "But something's different! A bunch of our files, the ones Shelton stole, their signal's coming from the kitchen computers! I need to hack into the kitchen network before I can delete the files!"
"Well, do it faster!" Hicks stormed in to an adjacent lab.
Marty realized he'd discovered something serious. If these were the last Dragonstorm scientists in the base, Wayne needed to know.
He slipped his radio out of his pocket, but a noise behind him caused him to keep it hidden, but on.
Hicks appeared behind him, leering in the dim hallway. "Think you could spy on us, eh?"
A sudden, exploding pain in Marty's abdomen. Hicks had stabbed him. Marty stumbled backwards, falling to the floor of the lab.
Hicks crossed his arms as Marty's vision faded. "Any last words?"
Marty rolled his head to the side, laying it on the radio under his coat. "Lab 23..." he murmured, and then grew still. . .
______________________________________________________--
"James!" Wayne quickly radioed. "Something's up in Lab 23! And hurry, one of my men may be in danger!"
-
(OOC: Is Rawlson still gpoing to appear? Cause I'd kinda wanted Jeston to be Rawlson, but I didn't know if you had plans for the character.
Also, Marty's keys might be a useful item to have in the future.
Also also, feel free to kill off Jeston. Or do whatever you like to him. Public domain.)
-
James received the transmission. "Go, go, go! We've got a situation in Lab 23 and it's critical; the guy sounded like he was dying or something!" He quickly bolted from the room.
"Sorry, for leaving you here but we can't wait for your response." Zachary said as he bolted from the room.
Hans and Werner entered the room. "We'll guard you two."
Meanwhile, Alfred followed James and Zachary.
-
(OOC - Yes, Rawlson will appear and it will be discovered that his real name is Jeston. Rawlson is a fictional scientist that Jeston used to acquire resources.)
-
(OOC: Make sure Jeston has a crowbar!)
-
Aisha and DR Landon raced after James and Zachary.. and tried to keep sight of them.. " So what gloing on in LAb 23? Did you send someone in to check it out? Aisha called out as she rann down the hallway after them..
-
"Dunno, an ADSA member alerted me about it, so it has to be serious." James called.
Hans and Werner were easily keeping up with them. Zachary and James were at the head of the group.
---------------------
Hicks had heard the group running outside the lab. He crouched in a dimly lit section of the lab with his knife at the ready.
---------------------
"We're here." Zachary said, gesturing to a slightly ajar door that read "Lab 23" but the scientists' nameplates were removed..
Alfred pushed the door open with the muzzle of his shotgun and he noticed the body of Marty in a pool of his own blood. "Holy [censored]!"
"What is it?" James asked. He carefully peeked into the lab. "Oh no! This must be the guy who radioed us."
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, come in. Hans, Werner, Zach guard the door." James said.
-
Aisha , with Dr Landon close behind her entered. One look at Marty told him all he needed to know.. "He's dead" Landon said sadly, going over and checking for a pulse all the same. He found none after waiting for a minute and moved away. 'So things are getting very serious then.."
-
Zachary got up and went up to the computer, passing by Hicks but not noticing him. He examined the computer. "Oh no, they're trying to erase Dragonstorm records! I think this means they're moving and in the process, they're trying to destroy all traces of it!"
-----------------------
James entered the office where he found Jeston sitting at a chair. "Pardon me but may I see your keycard?"
Jeston reached for the crowbar behind him. "Anything for the esteemed Dr. Zanasiu..." he immediately leapt to his feet and swung the crowbar at James, barely missing his head.
James tried to aim but Jeston was too quick, forcing James to block the crowbar with his shotgun. Though it saved his arm from being broken, the shotgun's firing mechanism was no longer functional after the powerful blow.
-----------------------
Alfred turned around noticed that Hicks was behind Zachary. "Zach behind you!"
Zachary turned around to see Hicks with a large knife standing behind him. "Aisha, someone..." Before Zachary could finish, Hicks held the knife to his throat.
(OOC - Don't kill Hicks. You can kill Jeston/Rawlson)
-
Suddenly the consoles died and the autoturrets ceased firing. "Well, all we can hope is that the blast doors hold until the power is back on. The backup batteries are drained." Dr. Bailey said grimly.
-
Aisha pulled out her gun. "Put the knife away or I'll shoot!" She snarled. "I won't miss! Put the knife away, and move away from Zachary or I will shoot!" She held the gun firm.. Aisha would shoot, and had a high chance of taking Hicks out..
-
Hans and Werner trained their SMGs on Hicks.
"Put the knife down." Hans demanded.
Hicks shifted so Zachary's body was in the line of fire.
----------------------------
-
Dr. Zanasiu blocked another blow and struck Jeston in the ribs with his now useless shotgun.
Jeston heard some of his ribs crack but he didn't seem to let up.
"Why do you persist in..." A shotgun blast cut Jeston's words off. Two more quickly followed, killing him.
In the doorway stood Alfred. "Well, I see this is one of our esteemed scientists." he deadpanned.
(OOC - LB&T, I'll let you do The Reveal about Jeston/Rawlson. You can use Alfred for this.)
----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu noticed the hostage situation outside the office. He grabbed Jeston's Glock 18 pistol which was sitting in the open on his desk. He quickly loaded it and cocked it.
He then exited the office and trained the pistol on Hicks. The office was almost behind Hicks.
"Hicks! Drop the knife!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. "I have a gun and you are surrounded!"
Hicks sighed and dropped the knife.
-
(OOC: Clyco is currently on standby in the control room for orders from his superiors, let me know when you want the Tank Platoon to arrive)
"I'd like to give this a shot on my own thank you," replied Clyco to Baily, getting to the floor to dodge the machinegun fire. The Irony, things HAD gone to hell in the control room.
-
"Looks like I shouldn't have put my Desert Eagle away," said Bradley, redrawing it and pointing it at the door. "That sounded like Martin over the phone. I hope he's all right."
_______________________________________________________
Alfred looked suspiciously at the crowbar. "Hmm, last time I checked a crowbar's an uncommon weapon for a scientist to carry around. . ."
He suddenly remembered trashing Rawlson's office, and Shelton complaining about the crowbar missing from the tool closet. "I wonder..."
Alfred checked the computer to see who was logged in. The name wasn't Jeston. "Jeston was Rawlson!" he exclaimed to himself. "He must have known ASDA was on to him being a member of Dragonstorm, so he made a dummy account to acquire resources and send information unchecked! There must be high-up officials involved in Dragonstorm is he could get an entire lab assigned to a nonexistant scientist!"
Alfred headed into the other room to tell the others.
(OOC: don't forget to pick up Marty's keys. Since that way James and co. have access to the cafe and all the labs in the base, even though the base is in lockdown.)
-
Dr Landon went over and rifled through Marty's pockets revealing a wallet and a ring of keys..
_
Aisha kept her gun trained on Hicks. 'You make one false move Hicks, and you're dead. If my bullets don't get you, Hans and Werner will! Get down on the ground, and put your hands behind your head.."
-
"Got anything Dr. Landon?" Zachary asked.
"Everyone, I have found something important!" Alfred said.
"What is it?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Shelton, Kerzach, Hans, Werner and I had searched and destroyed a lab assigned to someone named Dr. Theodore Rawlson. Guess what? "Dr. Theodore Rawlson" doesn't exist and he never did. Rawlson is a fictional scientist created by someone named Dr. Nicholas Jeston. I suspect that Dr. Jeston may have known that the ADSA was onto him and he was forced to create a new identity. This new identity would have allowed him to send and receive data without suspicion as well as acquire equipment and materials to proceed with his experiments. But this also raises the specter that high ranking Pelvanida Base officials are involved in Dragonstorm because assigning an entire lab to a nonexistent scientist is something that cannot be easily done without going through the proper channels."
Dr. Zanasiu gulped. "How many more of these fake scientists do you suspect?"
"I don't know but I'm willing to bet every member of Dragonstorm has fictional scientist at their beck and call."
Hans swore. "I knew it! That lab looked too perfect...like a movie set or something!"
-------------------------------
Hicks obeyed Aisha's command. "Kill me. It's too late for you to stop Dragonstorm. Dragonstorm's key personnel are already on board and they will be moving out soon." He then chuckled. "I dare you to follow them."
-------------------------------
Suddenly, the blast doors buckled as powerful explosive charge detonated.
Dr. Bailey swore and felt around for a weapon. He grabbed a Sig-Sauer P229 pistol that was by the body of a dead technician.
Another explosion and the blast doors caved inward, admitting several troopers who swept around the room. Spotting Dr. Bailey, they fired, just barely nicking him.
Several more troopers fired using the remains of the blast door as cover.
-
Riley was hit in the side, and fell, wincing. Bradley ducked behind a swivel chair and returned fire. "Clyco! Have you gotten the AI to allow you access yet?" yelled Bradley, reloading.
-
'Great so all this time they were posing under cover of false scentists... great .. just great.. this is not going very well for us.." Aisha muttered turning to Alfred
_
I found a set of keys , and his wallet.. but I think they keys are more important.." Landon said.
-
"Can I see those keys?" Corporal Stern asked. "I believe I have seen doors with locks that fit."
-
(OOC - I thought Corporal Stern was in the control room, not with the group?)
"We'll take the keys and the wallet. We'll have to enter the cafeteria's hidden passage." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Hans and Werner frisked Hicks and came away with a key card. "I think this may be the key card that unlocks that alleged secret passageway in the freezer." Hans said. Alfred then grabbed Hicks and literally threw him in a closet, which he then barricaded with a heavy steel desk.
Suddenly, Dr. Zanasiu's radio beeped. "The control room's under attack. I think this is their desperate last gamble before they head out."
"Hans, Werner and I'll take the control room." Zachary said. "You, Alfred, Aisha and Dr. Landon head to that passage"
"Let's get moving then." Dr. Zanasiu said, tossing his now useless shotgun in a corner.
----------------------
Two guards fell to Bradley's well aimed shots.
Dr. Bailey was ducked behind a console. He put his radio away, took aim at a guard and opened fire. Most of the rounds struck the steel blast door but enough hit their mark. He checked the magazine and noticed that he emptied it. He fumbled with another magazine he found, trying to reload.
-
Landon Tossed the keys to Zaniusu just as the radio went off. " Lead the way, Zaniusu" aisha said, follwing after him at a quick pace, with Landon close behind..
-
Dr. Zanasiu caught the keys and stuck them in his lab coat. He with his group proceeded down the hallways. The lights were off but the tactical light on Alfred's shotgun was sufficient.
"Pelvanida's normally not this quiet? Is it?" Alfred asked. "The halls are eerily empty."
"No. Even at 0300 hours, there is activity and many scientists and guards are present." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
The group arrived at the cafeteria without incident. Along the way, Dr. Zanasiu had stopped by a guard outpost to get a shotgun and some shells. Dr. Zanasiu unlocked the double doors leading to the darkened cafeteria.
"Straight to the freezer but first sweep around." Alfred whispered.
-
(OOC: He followed them.)
"I'll provide cover" the corporal said, drawing his rifle.
-
(OOC - I assume Corporal Stern left before the troops invaded the control room?)
"Thank you. Corporal." Dr. Zanasiu said. "Perhaps you've met my other allies?" He along with Alfred were sweeping the cafeteria for any sign of hostiles.
-
Meanwhile, back at Lab 101 the atmosphere was extremely tense.
"Can I ask what exactly is going on?" asked Shelton, looking around the dark lab. The only light came from the sparking of severed wires and panels.
"You mean you don't already know?" asked the man suspiciously, stepping forward and staring at him.
Shelton's face paled, but it wasn't visible in the dim light. "Not like that," he added hastily. "I just mean, why haven't we headed off yet?"
"There's a final assault to retake the control room. If it's successful, we might not have to initiate Operation Exodus." The man leaned over, his face inches from Shelton's. "Until then, I suggest you keep absoulutely silent."
-
"Has all the data been erased?" Dr. Kerzach asked. "I mean, we can't let the data fall into enemy hands."
A wiry Asian man looked at Dr. Kerzach. "All the scientists were supposed to have erased the data before we boarded." he replied
"Erm, I think I forgot to erase a little bit." Dr. Kerzach said.
The Asian man shrugged. "Too bad. They'll trace the data to you and you'll get your ass arrested. Each scientist only carries a bit of the data. That is to avoid having the whole project discovered. Yes, some scientists have their lives totally ruined but it is for the greater good."
Dr. Kerzach gulped but at the same time he nodded his head.
-
lead the wAy alfred, we need to hurry, time is not on our side.. these wackoes to moving quickly in thier plans, and we need to stop them.." Aisha said..
-
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred made their way to the freezer. Most of the food was still frozen and Dr. Zanasiu had to search for the keypad.
Dr. Zanasiu typed in "glory" but not surprisingly the keypad failed to respond. "Damn it! I forgot the power's out!"
"Aisha's right, we don't have much time. The entrance is at the back right?" Alfred asked.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Corporal Stern, we'll need you to blast away the back wall."
-
"I'm feeling less secure about this plan by the minute," Shelton whispered to Kerzach as soon as both men had lost interest in them. "I hope the control room people know about this attack."
He checked his radio. Something was still preventing communications out of Lab 101.
-------------------------------
Bradley reloaded again. Bullets were whizzing past his head, as he was currently the most dangerous target in the room.
Wayne was against the far wall, the Pelvanida guards shooting through the door right next to him. "Someone needs to get Riley to safety!" he yelled. Riley was still laying in the center of the room, unconscious.
"I fear we can't hold them for much longer," Bradley predicted gravely. "This room will be lost in a matter of seconds."
(Cautizer? Might be a good time for Clyco's weapon to start helping.)
-
Dr. Bailey crawled out from the behind a seriously damaged console and dragged Riley to safety. He opened fire, expending the entire magazine but not hitting anything except a guard's arm, causing him to drop his weapon.
"I guess this it, our last stand." Dr. Bailey said grimly. He groped around for another fallen pistol, this one a Glock 18.
-----------------------
Dr. Kerzach nodded. "It's pretty hard not to notice a platoon of troopers heading your way." Dr. Kerzach whispered back.
-
Stern got out several charges from his pack, and got ready to blow the wall.
"Alright everyone, get back! There's going to be quite a blast!" The corporal exclaimed, backing off from the wall.
-
(OOC: Sorry it took me a while to get back on. Did some important volunteer work over the weekend.)
Far off in the starlit desert, a convoy of vehicles quickly trudged their way towards the base: A wide-load armored truck, 3 transports carrying troops, and 4 heavily armored fast-moving vehicles. Above, two attack helicopters kept in close proximity as they neared their destination...
----------
As Aiko checked his tail, Feral regrouped with Vic, Neku, Snow, and Shade. "So much for 'temporarily' disabling the power..."
"I still have an external power source to hack into what we want," Aiko replied. "This mission's still a go!"
"Not if we wait around here any longer. Is he ready to go yet?"
"He still needs one more blood transfusion to get going any sooner," Vic replied. "Dr Joe's talking with another candidate."
"Well, we're going to need you along for our part of the mission. Dr. Joe and the others can stay here for the time being."
"Yes, sir."
"Let's go. The others may be running blind up there in the dark."
The three soldiers reached another vent system and are making their way up...
----------
The two assassins at the generator left to regroup with the others, until noises nearby led them towards the control room...
----------
Three other assassins checking the area around Lab 101 began to make their way back to their post...
----------
The three final assassins searching the base began to make their way towards the cafeteria...
-
Some soldiers advanced past the door, reaching Wayne. They beat him down, then turned on the remainders.
Bradley ran out of ammo. He pocketed the pistol and slid his belt out, holding it like a whip. "It's up to you, Messrs. Clyco and Bailey. I've been reduced to self defense, once they reach me."
-
Dr. Bailey emptied his pistol and finding no more magazines for it, tossed it aside. He grabbed yet another fallen pistol. "I'm terrible shot but this is all I can do!" He then started shooting, striking a trooper in the head.
--------------------------------
The charges detonated as the group took cover behind the masses of frozen food. As the smoke cleared, a large stairwell was revealed.
"Who built this!?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Probably the same person who put a little angle in the blast wall." Alfred replied.
"Well, Corporal Stern, Dr. Landon, Aisha, Alfred, ready to go?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
Alfred nodded. "Let's do this!"
--------------------------------
Hans, Werner and Zachary arrived at the control room. All they could see were several Pelvanida troopers shooting at Dr. Bailey and some other allies in the control room.
They took up defensive positions in nearby hallways and behind crates and opened fire.
-
Lead the way" Aisha said starting down the stairs without any hesistantion" Landon followed close behind her " We must hurry guys.."
-
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred soon followed.
"Who puts a stairwell in a freezer?" Alfred asked out loud.
"These people." Dr. Zanasiu replied, illuminating a sign in the darkened stairwell. The sign read "Project Headquarters".
"Wait, we're in the Dragonstorm base?"
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and continued down the stairs with Alfred following.
They soon arrived at the main entrance but the door was ajar and the lights out.
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred swept the area with their shotguns.
"This place is completely deserted." Dr. Zanasiu said
"Should we split up?" Alfred asked.
"Normally, I'd say no but since we need to cover ground fast, I'll have to say yes." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to Aisha and Dr. Landon. "We're going to split up."
-
(OOC: Cautizer? Is Clyco going to fire the prototype weapon, or do you have plans for it later?)
Dr. Bradley was hit in the shoulder. He ducked behind the chair and rolled underneath the computer terminal, out of the fight.
A group of the Pelvanida guards turned their attention to Zachary's team. One of them threw a grenade, which Werner caught and returned. It sailed through a window and exploded outside, but Werner's rifle was shot out of his hands during his brief moment of exposure. He drew his Berettas. "These guys are good," he said.
-
Just then, the human and the Cobra hitmen appeared on the scene by the control room, behind where Zachary, Hans, and Werner took up positions. The woman drew a pair of automatic pistols equipped with laser sights and silencers, and the Cobra pulled out a semi-automatic shotgun. A volley of hot metal volleyed towards the three...
---------
The three assassins at the cafeteria, two humans, and an ape, stopped as they heard noises nearby in the cooler. Drawing their guns, they took positions outside the kitchen. One human radioed in. "We got rats in the kitchen. Anyone in Dragonstorm be ready for intruders..."
----------
Vic, Aiko, and Feral reached into a hallway of laboratory rooms several floors up, checking for unwelcome greeters.
"These labs have computers in them," Aiko implied
"Thank you, Captain Obvious," Feral responded. "Can you hack into any of them for Dragonstorm?"
"I can try. However, chances are very slim that Dragonstorm could easily be accessed through these base computers. We'll need to find one that's affiliated with Dragonstorm."
"Well, we'll start looking. These Dragonstorm quacks could simply be able to mingle with the rest of the base, so they should have something in one of these rooms."
The soldiers began making a quiet sweep of each dark room...
-
Zachary ducked down to reload, the shots missing him.
Hans and Werner ducked down a nearby hallway as soon as they heard the shooting. They spotted the two assassins and returned fire in earnest.
"Zach! We've got more!" Hans shouted, firing off a short burst at the two attackers.
Zachary finished reloading and shot at the guards. A grenade landed at his feet and he threw it out a window, where it detonated, spewing hot shrapnel on the Nevadan desert.
"I'll deal with the guards!" Zachary shouted, shooting a guard in the stomach. He looked at his pockets. "Great. I've got 2 more magazines."
---------------------------------------
The few remaining scientists in the Dragonstorm labs received the transmission. They grabbed various firearms that they had hidden in their labs, sealed the doors and waited.
One of the scientists, a husky Asian man, grabbed a hidden Remington 870 shotgun in his closet. His assistant, a Komodo Dragon, grabbed a Glock 18 pistol and loaded it.
"This is it. The last stand." The man said, cocking his shotgun.
"It is not the last stand. Dragonstorm will live. As long as Lab 101 and its personnel and experiments make it out intact, nothing else matters." The Komodo Dragon replied
"Then why are you armed?"
"I'd prefer to try and keep Dragonstorm at Pelvanida. It's going to be hard to establish a new base elsewhere. And if we manage to retake the control room, Dragonstorm can stay."
---------------------------------------
Dr. Branston radioed Ariol. "Ariol, what is the estimated time that the transports will arrive?" He looked at his watch. "I've got 22:30."
---------------------------------------
Dr. Bailey swore as a bullet grazed his gun arm and other one struck his leg. He quickly crawled underneath a wrecked console and quickly began to try and stem the bleeding in his leg. "Sgt. Clyco, you're out only hope." he muttered.
---------------------------------------
In one of the labs that Aiko, Vic and Feral were searching, four scientists, a Lemur, an Ostrich, two Humans, were huddled in the back office with their weapons at the ready.
The Lemur peeked his head out and noticed the darkened forms of three soldiers.
"Those guys don't look like Pelvanida guards." The Lemur muttered.
"Well, only one way to find out." one of the Humans said.
He along with the others snuck out of the office and leveled their weapons at the three soldiers.
"Identify yourselves!" the Lemur roared.
(OOC - These are actually ADSA <Anti Dragonstorm Alliance> members but the soldiers don't know that yet. )
-
Keep a loook out.. theeres got to be someone hee' aisha said, looking around.. "We need to keep moving.."
-
Dr. Zanasiu's group arrived at two seperate hallways.
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, take the right. Alfred and I will take the left. " Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Assume everyone here is Dragonstorm aligned." Alfred said. "If they show hostility, shoot them immediately. We can't risk someone getting shot."
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred then headed down the left hallway.
-
Aisha nodded and turned down the right hallway. She had her gun in front of her.. in the ready position.. this hallway was deserted
-
Coroporal Stern saw a figure ahead of him... wielding a gun! Pulling out his own rifle with all the speed he could muster, he removed the safety and opened fire!
-
(OOC - Who did Corporal Stern go with?)
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred entered a darkened lab.
Suddenly, Alfred's light caught the glint of a gun barrel. He opened fire, killing the attacker.
Dr. Zanasiu went up to the corpse and examined it. "He's a Dragonstorm guard not a scientist."
Alfred shrugged as he reloaded his shotgun. "Guard, scientist, janitor or mechanic. Anyone here could be a threat."
-
(All my characters are either incapacitated or isolated, so I guess I won't be posting much. Where's Cautizer? I've seen him on the forum several times.)
-
(OOC - I sent Caustizer a PM reminding him about the RP and the fact that the discussion thread has been updated a bit.)
Dr. Kerzach looked around nervously.
"Where are we headed?" he asked a nearby scientist.
The scientist shrugged. "Dr. Branston never told us. All he said is that we could be passing through Vegas."
Dr. Kerzach thanked the scientist.
"Shelton, there's no way the group can stop them. They're driving through Vegas on purpose. They're basically using the people in Vegas as living shields." Dr. Kerzach whispered.
-
"Not much we can do about it," whispered Shelton back. "We shut down or stop the Lab somehow, and there's no telling what these madmen would do to the bystanders to keep Dragonstorm secret. I'm more worried about us. How are we going to get back to Pelvanida?"
(OOC: Just because Shleton wants to go back doesnb't mean they're going to. Maybe the idea to keep the facade going for informational purposes hasn't occured to him.)
-
"We'll have to hitchhike or hope the others can find us. Failing that, we'll have to basically reboot our lives. Possibly as fake Dragonstorm personnel." Dr. Kerzach whispered back.
-
"Easy for you to say, Dr. Irving," Shelton replied sarcastically. Then he realized exactly what Kerzach meant. "I really don't like that idea. . ." he groaned, looking around. "We'd be an invaluble help to defeating them though. Assuming of course we don't get caught and brutally executed."
-
"Enemy targets detected, beam lock initiating," called out the Piscies amidst the gunfire. Clyco had his sidearm out, and was taking potshots at the traitor guards. It surprised him that the gun was talking about "seeking" targets when it was on the ground next to him, behind a control panel acting as cover.
"Well, looks like it's just me left. Better give this thing a shot or I'm done for," Clyco thought. As his pistol ran out of suppression ammo, he reached for the Spectrum Rifle and cocked the loader.
"Friendly armant detected, beam lock complete, fire when ready."
Not taking a chance, Clyco slipped the rifle overtop of the panel and blindfired into the hostiles. Two things happened at once. First was an aweful screech and thunderous crack, and the second were screams of terror as three of the five assialants were eliminated in the blink of an eye.
The Experimental Spectrum Rifle worked by locking on several targets and calibrating a beam of prismatic light (also called "heavy light") to bounce between targets striking all locked on assialants at once. The beam that Clyco fired passed through the first guard, reflecting off his internal organs (giving severe internal burns) onto the second and subsequentially the third.
The biggest drawback of the weapon revealed itself however.
"Power core depleted, recharging"
Clyco looked at the timer, and it was well over 10 minutes. No wonder this thing was not standard issue - 1 shot was useless in a battle situation. As it turned out he didn't need to fire again.
"Holy @#&@^$," one of the traitor guards hollered, "were dead, let's get outta here!"
The two guards fled, covering their escape with a hail of pointless rapid fire.
Clyco breathed a sigh of relief... the gunfight was over for the time being.
-
Dr. Bailey crawled out of the rubble. "They're gone." He grimaced as he realized that he could not stand.
------------------------------
Zachary shot one of the fleeing guards. "What happened?" He then smelled something burnt. He entered the control room and, steppinf over the smoking corpse of a rogue guard.
"Everyone okay?" he asked. "And what was that weapon? It sounded like nothing else I've ever heard before."
"Zach, some help?" Dr. Bailey asked.
Zachary rolled an office chair near a console and lifted Dr. Bailey onto it.
"Okay, since power's out we're limited only to communications with portable radios. And most of the base's electronics don't work." Dr. Bailey said. He then radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Doc Z, this is Doc B, where are you? The situation in the control room has been resolved. Doc B out."
Dr. Zanasiu's voice crackled over the radio. "Doc B, this is Doc Z, Aisha, Dr. Landon, Alfred and I are in the Dragonstorm base. It's mostly empty. Doc Z out."
--------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred searched the remaining labs finding them completely deserted. The twin hallways eventually connected back together.
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred ran into Aisha and Dr. Landon.
"So you guys find anything?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"All we found was a dead scientist named Dr. Gallo. It looks like someone stabbed him with a letter opener." Alfred replied.
-
All We found was a coupte of notebooiks with notes in them' Aisha said handing them over.."You can look through them when we have time..Come on, we need to get out of here..'
-
"It's called a Spectrum Rifle and by the looks of things it's not useful for the next 8 minutes and 12 seconds," answered Clyco.
-
"Looks like Hans, Werner and I are the only ones who can actually shoot for now." Zachary said. "I don't think we'll need to worry about much about attacks now."
-----------------------------
"Yeah, we'd better get moving." Alfred said. He and Dr. Zanasiu made their way out of the Dragonstorm base.
When they were inside the freezer. Alfred looked around outside the window. "We're clear, let's go!"
Alfred and Dr. Zanasiu, with their guns at the ready left the freezer and proceeded to exit the kitchen.
-----------------------------
"It...was our..." The Asian man gasped before he died. He had been shot by Dr. Landon
"Our...sacrifice...." the Komodo Dragon choked out. He had had been shot by Aisha.
-----------------------------
"Keep cool and we'll be fine." Dr. Kerzach whispered back.
-----------------------------
Dr. Branston, at his console, examined the control room via the security cameras. The entire squad of troopers he sent to retake the control room had been killed. He then examined the security cam archive. His jaw dropped as the footage showed the last 5 troopers being burned alive by some kind of laser beam. He then radioed Ariol. "Ariol, we'll need to execute Operation Exodus. The squads have failed to retake the control room."
He then activated the PA system in Lab 101. "All personnel prepare for evacuation. Operation Exodus is go." he said.
-------------------------------
Dr. Kerzach gulped as he heard the announcement. "This is it. We're rolling out." he whispered to Shelton.
-
"Right, 'cause I'm always cool under pressure," Shelton whispered nervously. He jerked his head around at the sudden beginnings of movement. "If I start hyper-ventilating, hit me."
--------------------------------
Dr. Bradley crawled out from under the terminal and got to his feet. "I must have missed something," he said. "I was sure we'd all be dead by now."
--------------------------------
Back at Lab 101, the report came through. "This is PFC Reynolds. We almost had them, sir," the surviving guard radioed. "Then the final man fired this deep-cooking laser, I've never seen anything like it. It fried Hooker, and both--"
"Get to the point!" snapped the man at Lab 101, though he already know what the man was going to say.
". . .We didn't retake the control room," the man finished. He sounded afraid. Returning to base--"
"No, you're not," the man at Lab 101 interrupted. "You can stay behind and explain your failure to your executors!" He turned to Dr. Branston. "Let's get out of here."
(OOC: Whoops, you posted while I was writing. Want me to just delete the part where he talks to Branston?)
-
(OOC - Your new post is fine.)
Dr. Branston nodded. "Ariol's transports should be arriving soon." He pulled out a small switch from his pocket. "This triggers a 50 kiloton pure fusion bomb in the Dragonstorm base. Dr. Zenarchis has the other trigger."
Dr. Zenarchis, a tall man with penetrating brown eyes, pulled out the other switch. "If both triggers are pressed, a 30 minute countdown starts. The bomb is powerful enough to destroy Pelvanida Base and all of the evidence. But I would rather avoid using the bomb as there is no way to cover such a massive blast."
(OOC - The "Dr. Zenarchis" from the previous RP is actually another dead scientist with Zenarchis's ID planted on him.)
-
"Doctor who?" gasped Shelton. "He's dead!"
-
Ariol looked down at his watch. "It should be less than an hour," he called back in. "My team will hold off these bastards until then."
----------
Vic, Aiko, and Feral turned at the shout behind them, their weapons at the ready, especially Feral's big rifle.
"These are scientists," Aiko whispered. "They Dragonstorm?"
"Don't know," Vic replied. "The Dragonstorm scientists were violent then..."
"Unless you want some incendiary rounds in you, pal," Feral snarled, "you better drop that weapon!"
----------
The two assassins had escaped as the organic weapon made short work of several guards in one trigger pull. "This is Siren!" the woman called in. "Those do-gooders have an organic weapon with them!"
----------
Deathwind, who has been waiting quietly throughout the 3-ring circus, noticed the scientists outside were arming themselves. Finally, he thought, it's time he truly hones his talents...
----------
"Get to the armory for better firepower," Ariol responded to Siren's message. "But help clean out the filth in the secret facilities by the cafeteria. The control room's an acceptable loss without power."
-
"Incendiary rounds? Pelvanida guards aren't issued incendiary weapons." the Ostrich said.
"Must be allied soldiers then." the Lemur said. "We are not Dragonstorm personnel. We are in fact members of the Anti Dragonstorm Alliance. We were in the process of gathering data when you arrived."
------------------------------
Hans and Werner entered the control room. "Is everyone okay?"
"Fine!" Zachary called.
"Got shot in the leg but I'll live. Any medics here?" Dr. Bailey said.
------------------------------
"Good." Dr. Branston radioed back.
------------------------------
The scientist turned to Shelton. "Ah, I can see Dr. Zenarchis's ruse worked. He faked his death so people would think that Dragonstorm died with him."
-
"Anti Dragonstorm Alliance?" Aiko responded. "Never heard of them! Did you, Vic?"
"Not when I was here before," Vic replied. "But maybe Dr Zanasiu managed to get some scientists here to help out?"
"Don't know," Feral replied grimly, watching the armed scientists. "But you better put down your weapons just the same, and hand out your ID's..."
----------
The convoy would have already had the base in sight, but there were no lights emanating from the facility. All the armed personnel cocked their weapons back for a fight...
-
The scientists lowered their weapons and handed over their IDs.
"Dr. Zanasiu, you say?" the Lemur said. He pulled out a card with small portraits of of James, Shelton, Werner, and Dr. Joe at each corner from his shoe and handed it to Feral.
"Look, [censored] has hit the fan and reports are circulating that all Dragonstorm personnel are being evacuated from the base as we speak. We can provide valuable data for you as well as additional firepower if need be." the Ostrich said.
-
Aisha looked at DR Landon. "I'll help tend to DrBailey..
As he said this Aisha heard footsteps.. "Hold on I'm going to check it out.." Shhe burst from the room and noticed the last surviving attacker : Hey! Drop yiour weapon.. and I'll spare you!' She called out.." Aiming and hitting a area above the mans head.
-
Reynolds dropped his weapon and put his hands behind his head. "It doesn't matter," he said. "Even if you don't kill me, the person who's coming will."
(OOC: I'm referring to Deathwind, who from MK's post sounds like he's about to attack then control room? Do I have that right? If not, I can change Reynolds' line to refer to the death penalty.)
---------------------------------
Shelton was speechless. He turned to Kerzach. "That's the second time Zenarchis has totally appeared where he had no right to. Can anything be taken at face value with these people?"
-
"You join us.. and we'll see to it, that.. you get out of here alive" Aisha said.. "What is your name?' he asked as she picked up his gun..
-
"Christopher Reynolds, Private First Class, Pelvanida Security Force," Reynolds replied. "I'll tell you what you want to know, if it'll help lessen my sentence once I go to jail for aiding an illegal project."
-
Zachary dragged a battered metal first aid kit out from under the rubble and handed it to Aisha.
Hans and Werner grabbed Reynolds and escorted him to a corner where they kept their weapons trained on him.
"I can't guarantee anything, but if you cooperate, I will try to lessen your sentence." Hans said. "First off, how many people you know are working with Dragonstorm?"
-----------------------------------
Two of the "guards" in the towers spotted the convoy through their night vision goggles. "Operation Exodus must be online!"
One of the guards pulled out a radio. "Bradley, Operation Exodus is..." Suddenly, a powerful blow knocked the radio from his hands.
He reached for his sidearm but two bullets to the head killed him.
His companion, a tough looking Female Hyena, drew her sidearm and shot one of the assailants before she too was gunned down.
The surviving assailant radioed the Lab 101 control room. "Control 2, this is Sgt. Barnes, my partner and I have caught two impostors and we have dealt with them. Unfortunately, my partner was killed. Sgt. Barnes out."
-----------------------------------
The Ostrich pulled out his radio as it beeped. All he heard was "Bradley, Operation Exodus is..." then several gunshots. He then turned to the soldiers. "The Pelvanida Guards have killed two ADSA operatives. And I think Operation Exodus is starting."
"Operation Exodus is the evacuation, by truck, of key Dragonstorm personnel and experiments. It's hinted that an entire lab is to be lifted from Pelvanida and placed on a truck but we're not exactly sure." the Lemur replied. "And judging from that we'll need all the help we can get to stop it."
-----------------------------------
In another tower four other guards spotted the convoy. They radioed Dr. Branston.
"Dr. Branston, this is Tower Four. Convoy is in sight. Tower Four out." the guard radioed.
-----------------------------------
Dr. Branston nodded. He pressed a button on the console that disconnected the lab from the rest of the base. The rumble of machinery and the low thuds of locks disengaging echoed through the lab.
"Ariol, this is Branston, Lab 101 has been disengaged and ready for lifting. At your command, I will disconnect the power link and allow your men to load the lab onto the truck and hook up the trailer generator to the lab. Branston out." Dr. Branston radioed. He then grabbed the intercom.
"This is Dr. Branston, all locks have been disengaged and the convoy is in sight. When Ariol gives the word, the lab will be lifted by crane onto the truck. You will feel the lab being lifted but stay calm."
"Good work." the technician replied to Sgt. Barnes's transmission.
----------------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred entered the control room.
"What took so long?" Zachary asked.
"We had to shoot it out with some of Dragonstorm's troops. We were trying to hold them off so Aisha and Dr. Landon could get to the control room. Luckily Corporal Stern, was there to assist us. We owe him our lives." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
Alfred nodded. "Had it not been for him we would have died when our supply of shotshells vanished. But because of him, we're alive."
"But we still have no ammo." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
(OOC - I had Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred kill the assassins sent after them in the cafeteria. This was a way to justify how Dr. Landon and Aisha got to the control room.)
(OOC - Can I assume Corporal Stern helped Dr. Zanasiu and Alfred kill the assassins?)
-
"Something's happening with an Operation Exodus," reported Bradley, holding the radio to his ear. "But I didn't hear what."
"What's Operation Exodus?" asked Hans.
Bradley shook his head. "I don't know. And I don't need first aid," he added quickly as Hans withdrew some morphine and approached him. "The shoulder 's not bothering me. Focus your attention on Bailey and Riley."
"You've been shot," said Hans. "You're losing a lot of blood."
Meanwhile, Reynolds looked at James. "You must be Dr. Zanasiu. I don't know of any guards that stayed in the same room as you and came out alive.
"If you want specific names, I've heard rumors about Dr. Jeston and Dr. O'Neill, and when Delta Leader talks about who gives her our orders, it sounds like she's talking about Dr. Branston, but other than that, us guards are largely kept out of the loop. I can't even tell you what Dragonstorm is about.
"But if you mean numbers of personnel, it sounds like around 50 scientists were involved from the get-go, though lately that number has gotten much smaller from fatalities. There are also many lesser individuals involved, like assistants and guards like me, but we do little more than serve a function for the scientists. We aren't involved in the policy-making or whatever happens to the missing experiments."
-
Dr. Zanasiu narrowed his eyes. "Dr. O'Neill? I had an ugly encounter with someone of that name when Pelvanida was attacked by terrorists. Is his first name Keegan and is he a Shire draft horse?" he asked.
"I killed Dr. Jeston. I would have liked to take him alive but I had no choice after he attacked James with a crowbar." Alfred replied.
Dr. Bailey heard snatches of the conversation between PFC Reynolds and his interrogators. "Wait..." he winced as pain shot through his injured leg. "Dr. Ian Branston was my assistant. He beat me up and threw me in a closet when I threatened to leave the base and expose Dragonstorm."
Werner's face darkened. "Sounds like this Dr. Branston guy is one of the ringleaders."
Dr. Zanasiu h eld a hand to his forehead in thought. "Wait, I remember that during the terrorist assault a few months back, I found a DVD in a lab. I can't remember the circumstances or exactly what's on it but I remember this name, Dr. Johnson Zenarchis and I think he was high ranking Dragonstorm scientist or something."
Zachary nodded. "We found him, dead, in a lab. Looked like one of his assistants stabbed him to death or something."
-
"Really?" Reynolds furrowed his brow. "About an hour ago, every member of our squadron had been been given an option: Half of us were to stage an assault on the control room, and half of us were to escort Dr. Zenarchis to Lab 101. And yes, the O'Neill I'm thinking of was indeed a Shire Draft Horse."
-
"I should have clarified. We found Dr. Zenarchis dead several months ago during the terrorist attack." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"That's the same O'Neill!" Zachary exclaimed.
"What is this Operation Exodus?" Dr. Bradley asked.
-
"It's the plan to evacuate Dragonstorm in case the project is threatened. Basically one of the labs in the base is designed to detach itself from the base and be transported to safety. I was just informed that due to my failure Operation Exodus is leaving without me," Reynolds replied bitterly.
-
"Which lab is it?" Zachary asked.
"Is there a drive train or something we can destroy to strand the lab?" Hans asked. He managed to successfully staunch the flow of blood from Bradley's shoulder.
"How close are the escorts?" Alfred asked.
Dr. Zanasiu swore. "We'd better get moving. We'll have to find this lab and strand it here. The only problem is we need to find which lab it is and that takes time we don't have."
-
"It's the new lab, added during the recent remodeling," said Reynolds. "And you're too late; I'm sure the Lab is disengaged and being loaded onto the transports as we speak. It'll be heading out by the time you reach it."
-
well, the information you've given us will help you at trial, should there even be a trial.." aisha said to reynolds..'right now the priority is stopping that lab if thats at all possible.. if not then we need to get out of here.. and warn the country than there is a very dangerous group afoot oin this country..
-
"We'll have to head to the main hanger. The only problem is, I have no idea how to drive an armored vehicle." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Shouldn't we head to the AWTR?" Zachary said.
"Not sure if we have time. It's pretty far from the main hanger. However, the laser and magnetic weapons will provide a major boost to our firepower." Hans replied.
Alfred shook his head. "Installing the new weapons on the vehicles will take far too long. However, when I was doing construction work in the hanger, I noticed that some of the armored vehicles had some rather bizarre looking turrets. Those vehicles might be test platforms for those new weapons."
"Clyco, Stern any chance of getting the US military to help intercept them?" Dr. Bailey asked.
(OOC - Caustizer, you can start the beginnings of the joint US/Canadian invasion, just don't have them arrive until Lab 101 is loaded and headed out (That will be Kenjiro's posts).)
-
"Yes. I think we have an excellent chance. There is an aircraft carrier not far from here. It was the ship that carried the plane I parachuted out of. If we contact US forces immediately, they should be able to scramble something in that direction." Corporal Stern replied.
-
Dr. Bailey found an undamaged console. "Unfortunately, the power's out."
Hans was looking through broken window with a pair of night vision binoculars. "Even if we could restore the power, we can't contact anyone. It looks like they blew up the radio towers before they left."
Dr. Zanasiu sighed. "Bastards thought of everything. And these portable radios aren't powerful enough to contact them."
Zachary returned with a container of shotshells. "Thought you and Alfred could use some ammo."
"Thanks." Alfred said. He began reloading his weapon and filling his pockets with shells. Dr. Zanasiu did the same.
"With the radio tower gone, we'll have no choice but to return to Carson City Camp and get reinforcements that way." Zachary said.
"It's a drive of several hours to Carson City Camp and back. By PFC Reynold's information, they are getting to leave very soon. We have to pursue them ourselves." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to everyone in the room. "Any other ideas besides a car chase?"
-
We need to get going ' Reynolds you are coming with us.. If you help us stop them. it will mitigate any help you gave them.."Aisha said.. putting an extra round of ammo into her pocket.."
-
"Do you trust me with a weapon?" Reynolds asked curiously, raising one eyebrow.
(OOC: I forgot to say, Reynolds is added to the public domain.)
-
we have no choice but to trust you' Aisha said..tossing a gun to him.."besides, if you report back to dragonstorm it will be the last thing you'll ever do, they'll likely kill you on the spot..."
-
"To be 100 percent blunt, no." Dr. Bailey said.
"No time to be picky." Alfred said.
"He can help in other ways. I still don't trust him." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Clyco, Stern, I assume you have experience driving armored vehicles?" Zachary asked.
"What?"
Zachary nodded. "Lab 101's escorts are probably armed. The armored vehicles will probably have the best chance of surviving."
"Yeah, but we've got..." Dr. Zanasiu counted all the soldiers in the room. "Four who can drive such vehicles. And I assume that we'll need one to serve as a gunner."
"We can always take the armored Humvees. They drive similar to an ordinary car but we'll still need a gunner."
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "That means we have 4 Humvees with gunners."
"I think taking at least one heavier vehicle like a Stryker might be needed." Zachary added.
"I guess that means we'll have to take weapons and swipe some Pelvanida employees' personal vehicles?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
Zachary nodded. "If it comes down to it, we'll have to. Granted it will take a lot of time; we'll have to root through all the labs and try to find which key belongs to which car."
"I wonder if our vehicles are still functional?" Alfred asked.
"Probably not." Zachary replied.
-
so which car will me and Aisha be in?" DR Landon asked. ' just out of curiousity , mind you.. Am I right in guessing we'll be in a civilian vehicle?'
-
Reynolds removed the bullets from his gun and gave it to Dr. Zanasiu. "Here. I won't travel armed until everyone in the group trusts me with ammunition." He strapped the gun to his back. "Maybe if I'm lucky I can bluff somebody with this."
-
Dr. Zanasiu pocketed the cartridges. He then turned to Dr. Landon. "You both may have to be driving armored Humvees. As will Zachary and myself. Clyco, Stern and Reynolds may have to man the turrets or drive one of the Stryker vehicles. We'll need at least 1 Stryker."
"We should try and contact Dr. Joe and her team." Zachary said.
"Good idea. Vic, Feral and Akio will be invaluable. If they come we can use more Strykers.
Bradley radioed all ADSA members. "All ADSA members, report to the main control room."
---------------------------
The four scientists with Vic and his team received the transmission.
The two Humans turned to the soldiers. "The leader of ADSA has ordered that we report to the main control room. You are welcome to follow us."
(OOC - I'll let anyone create and control the ADSA group members. Keep the number under 6. There's already 4 confronting Vic's team.)
-
Stern indeed had experience driving armored vehicles. In his earlier days in the service, he used to drive a humvee.
"Just point me in the direction I need to go. I'll drive whatever it is you need me to." the corporal replied.
-
Reynolds nodded. "All Pelvanida guards are trained in driving all forms of military vehicles, including 6x6, tracked and heavy armor. We are also trained in mounted weapons use."
"Good. That's one way you can help us. You can help drive one of the Strykers. Sorry but I don't entirely trust you with the position of gunner." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"Understood. As soon as the ADSA members and Dr. Joe and Vic's team get here, we'll head to the main hanger." Zachary said
-
Clyco just nodded and saluted.
At this point he was knee deep in this operation, so he really had no choice but to play along. At least he had a secret weapon, one that was almost done charging up again.
Apart from that, a car chase could be really interesting.
(OOC: So when do I send in the tanks?)
-
(OOC - Caustizer, you can start dropping hints like Clyco receiving a radio message or something similar or you can show what's going on back at a Canadian military base. Once Kenjiro loads the Lab 101 and the convoy starts rolling out, you can start having the tanks and infantry platoons start converging on Pelvanida.)
"We'll also need Hawkeye, Kagetora, Cale, Ridley, Agito and Slash." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"We'll have to move without them. We have no way to contact them and we last saw them in the cafeteria. They could be anywhere, hunting down Dragonstorm personnel or whatnot. We have no time to go searching for them." Zachary replied.
At this point, a thin Ostrich in a lab coat who had strapped on some stolen body armor and armed with an M16 with the underbarrel grenade launcher entered the lab.
"Hello. I am one of the ADSA members that Dr. Bradley requested." the Ostrich said.
"Guys, this is Dr. Arnold Greene." Dr. Bradley said.
"Pleased to meet you Dr. Greene." Dr. Zanasiu said, shaking his hand.
"And you must be Dr. Zanasiu." Dr. Greene replied.
"Indeed I am. However, call me James." Dr. Zanasiu then gestured to his allies. "These are my allies: Dr. Landon, Aisha Tennes, Zachary Johnson, Alfred Byford, Dr. Bailey, Corporal Stern and Sgt. Clyco."
Dr. Greene then introduced himself to all the mentioned people.
(OOC - As I previously stated, all ADSA members are public domain.)
-
Aisha nodded to Dr Greene. " Hoe long have you been part of ADSA?' she asked.. giving him a look over..
-
"I was one of the first members. ADSA isn't that old. It was founded only after the terrorist assault." Dr. Greene replied.
-
"You might want to sit down," one scientist whispered to Kerzach. "Things are about to get rough."
-
Dr. Branston radioed Ariol again. "Ariol, this is Branston, I have intercepted a radio transmission from the control room. They are trying to recruit all the ADSA scientists from the base. They may be mounting a last ditch assault. Branston out." He then cut the transmission. "This is it. Time to start rolling out." he muttered. Dr. Branston then tapped several buttons on the console.
As he did so, several deep metallic clicks and rumbles indicated that the latch points had been deployed. A large green sign that read "fuel cell active" lit up in his control panel.
Dr. Branston then did the final, irreversible act, pressing a covered red button that triggered the explosive bolts that broke away the power cable and severed the lab's attachments to the rest of Pelvanida Base.
He radioed Ariol again. "Ariol, this is Branston, Lab 101 is ready to be evacuated. Latch points are deployed and the lab has been separated from Pelvanida. Branston out."
Dr. Branston then spoke into the PA system. "Lights will be cut to conserve electricity." He cut the lights in the lab.
----------------------------------
Dr. Kerzach sat down as the scientist indicated. He gulped as he heard the explosive bolts detonate. "Shelton, this is it. No turning back." he whispered to Shelton.
----------------------------------
A man in an odd combination of a chef's outfit and an armored vest walked into the control room. He was armed with a Mossberg 500 shotgun and a large cybernetic Falcon was flying behind him.
"Ah, nice to see you Nixon." Dr. Bradley said. He then turned to the others. "This is Dean Nixon, Double Helix Eatery chef."
"The Falcon's name is Ridley or so Lt. Hawkeye said." Nixon said.
"Where's Hawkeye?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Dunno. Hawkeye entrusted Ridley to me. Said he was going to take his crew and hunt down Dragonstorm personnel. Haven't seen 'em since."
(OOC - Kenjiro, you can start moving Lab 101.)
-
(OOC - Kenjiro, if you want me to change this, say so.)
The convoy headed into the grounds of Pelvanida. The base's defensive turrets were retracted and there were no lights to be seen anywhere.
The truck drove to the designated area and with the help of a built in crane, lifted Lab 101 onto its bed. The men quickly secured it to the bed.
"We're done, let's move out." the truck driver said.
Soon the convoy began to make its way out of the base. In all the process took about 6 minutes.
---------------------------
As soon as the lab was lifted onto the truck and the convoy began to move out of the base, the gathered scientists cheered.
Dr. Kerzach was partially asleep when the lab was being lifted but the cheering of the scientists around him woke him up.
"Erm, what's the cheering about?" Dr. Kerzach asked groggily.
"If you weren't asleep, you would have known! In any case, we're moving out! Lab 101 is now heading out of Pelvanida." the scientist said. She then turned around and went out of earshot.
"Oh, [censored]!" Dr. Kerzach whispered to Shelton. "We're totally [censored]!"
------------------------------
"Hey! I hear a truck engine or several!" Zachary said. "And they're coming from the front of the base."
Dr. Bradley blanched. He grabbed his radio. "All ADSA members, disregard what I said previously! Meet by the main hanger!"
"This is it. Move out!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted.
"Any time to go to the armory?" Hans asked.
"Hell no!"
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, Dr. Greene, Nixon, Clyco, Stern, Zachary, Alfred, Hans, Werner this is it, our finest hour!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. "To the main hanger!"
Dr. Zanasiu, Dr. Greene, PFC Reynolds, Nixon (with Ridley), Alfred, Hans, Werner and Zachary bolted from the control room and took off at a run towards the main hanger.
"Good luck." Dr. Bradley said.
-
(OOC: The convoy part is fine.)
The three assassins by Lab 101 jumped into the convoy to keep watch over the operation.
Ariol instead headed for the armory to meet up with the remaining team. He gets word from Dr Branston that the Lab was ready to go. "Head on out, then," he replied. "There are a few more experiments that need 'liberating' before we depart." There were some experiments trapped in the original facility that may now be overrun by their unwelcome guests...
----------
Deathwind watched from afar in his cell, as the invaders entered the facility. He cursed in his mind that he remained trapped in this room, waiting to be killed like a fish in a barrel. He must think of something soon...
----------
Another explosion from the generator room was felt by the soldiers. "That sounded very close to the sub-levels," Vic said.
Soon after, Dr Joe, Snow, and the young experiment appeared behind them.
"What happened?"
"The sub-levels started to cave in," Dr Joe replied, and then looked to the armed scientists. "You did check them, did you?"
"They're clear," Feral replied. "Apparently they're part of an 'anti-Dragonstorm' team in the base. Anyway, have you ADSA members got a hold on any useful data?"
"Even better," Aiko added. "You have a computer we can use to hack the database?"
-
(OOC: Sorry if my posts aren't as long here as in some of my other RPs... I've been busy lately.)
Stern was ready to mount a turret on any vehicle. He had experience with these kinds of weapon system since the war back in '01...
-
"This flash drive contains everything we've intercepted and some data that we've pulled out of the databanks. None of us are cryptographers so we can't decipher anything. However if we need more data, there is a small lab outside the sublevels with a few computers." the Ostrich, replied handing a flash drive to Feral. "By the way, I'm Dr. Allan Falco. And these are my partners, Dr. John Volkowitz, Dr. Klaus Ostermann and Dr. Erik Bjurling." he said, gesturing to the two Humans then the Lemur.
"Oh, that's worrying." Dr. Ostermann said. He then turned to the others. "The convey has arrived and it seems like they took Lab 101 with them. We just got orders to head to the main hanger."
Dr. Falco shook his head. "Take Volkowitz to the main hanger. I and Bjurling will accompany the soldiers."
Dr. Ostermann and Dr. Volkowitz bolted from the lab and took off at a run to the main hanger.
------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary hopped into two separate Humvees and started them. Hans manned the powerful experimental laser turret on Dr. Zanasiu's Humvee.
Alfred and Hans were in the process of starting the generator to power the massive doors.
PFC Reynolds got into a Stryker assault vehicle and started the engine.
Alfred and Werner soon got the generator started and the doors gradually slid open.
Werner got into the last Humvee and started the engine.
Alfred ran outside into the night air and grabbed the nearest vehicle, a large pickup truck. He chuckled as he noticed that they left the door unlocked and the keys hidden inside. He soon started the truck.
-
Stern climbed into the stryker and took up the turret. "Ready when you are, Reynolds."
-
Ariol and his two remaining assassins made their way across the cafeteria and into the secret facility, finding many of the dead across the floor, three of them his hitmen. Without hesitation, he went to some of the holding cells, which remained untouched by the fight.
There were three Dragonstorm experiments: Deathwind, a human, and an Alligator.
"I hear this hell will soon cease to exist..." Deathwind buzzed when his cell was opened.
"In due time," Ariol replied. He then sprinted into a nearby office, in which a suitcase contained much needed data for the continued Dragonstorm.
Now, they must reach a vehicle to escape...
----------
Just then, Feral's radio began to call. "Black Widow, Black Widow, this is Echo Base. Over."
"Black Widow, Black Widow to Echo Base. We hear you loud and clear. Over."
"Black Widow, you are ordered to evacuate the base immediately. Black Hawks en route to pick you up. Over."
"Copy that, Echo Base. Require added choppers to pick up friendlies. Repeat, we have friendlies that will need more Black Hawks. Over."
"Roger that, Black Widow. Choppers will be in in 0030 hours. Echo Base out."
"Black Widow out." Feral put his radio away. "Vic, you and the others get to the choppers first. Aiko and I will get to that computer for more info. There's got to be a reason we were called out of here."
"Yes sir," Vic replied.
-
Aisha and dR Landon ran as quicjkly as they could after the others. "You don't mind giving us a lift Alfred?" Aisha asked she caught to him climbing into the pickup truck.. Dr landon jumped in and climbed into the back seat. "Just get in Aisha and close the door.." Landon said. Aisha climbed in and closed the door behind her. she quickly buckled herself in.. lets get moving..'
-
"Not at all." Alfred replied.
"Wait for us!" Dr. Greene called. He and Nixon, slowed down by their armor bolted from the hanger. Ridley, beeping excitedly, was following them.
Nixon, and Dr. Greene climbed into the bed of the pickup truck. Ridley flew above the truck and beeped even more frantically.
"Let's rock and roll!" Alfred shouted. He mashed the horn on the truck.
Dr. Zanasiu, PFC Reynolds, Zachary, Hans and Werner drove out of the hanger as soon as they heard the horn.
The powerful beams of the vehicles' lights slashed the night.
Dr. Zanasiu's Humvee took the lead and drove down the road out of the base. The other vehicles followed.
Soon, the Pelvanida convoy was driving down the desolate highway. The lights of the Dragonstorm convoy could be seen in the distance.
--------------------------
Dr. Volkowitz and Dr. Ostermann, armed with a Sig-Sauer P226 pistol and a Remington 870 shotgun respectively, entered the main hanger.
"Damn it! They left without us!" Dr. Volkowitz said.
"We'll take my car." Dr. Ostermann said.
The two scientists entered the parking lot and got into Dr. Ostermann's car, a silver BMW 7 series sedan.
"Bradley, this is Ostermann, the pursuers left without us. We are driving a BMW 7 series sedan. Ostermann out." Dr. Ostermann radioed.
"Ostermann, this is Bradley, follow them and hurry!" the radio crackled.
Dr. Volkowitz started the car and sped out of the parking lot.
------------------------
"Zanasiu, this is Bradley, tell your team not to shoot at a silver BMW sedan that's coming up behind you. They're the two ADSA members sent to help you. Bradley out." the Humvee's radio blared.
Dr. Zanasiu activated the radio. "Everyone, this is Zanasiu, do not shoot at a silver BMW sedan coming behind us. Repeat, do not shoot at a silver BMW sedan coming behind us!"
Hans then shouted the message out.
Dr. Greene tapped on the back window of the truck, which Alfred rolled down. "Don't shoot the silver BMW coming behind us. It's and ADSA vehicle."
"Gotcha." Alfred replied.
-
"Dammit, I can't pretend to be a stork for the rest of my life..." Shelton noticed Kerzach was sitting down. "Hey, why are you--?" He was interrupted as underneath Lab 101 they hit a bump. He was the only scientist in the lab to sprawl to the floor.
The others nearby got a good chuckle as he staggered to his feet. "That's why we all sat down," smiled the man to Kerzach's left. "There are going to be many more where that came from."
Shelton looked around. "Then where's a chair?"
He clicked his light on briefly, and discovered there weren't any left. Scowling, he made to sit cross-legged, and collapsed due to another bump.
-
Luckily, most of the other scientists were asleep and none of them noticed Shelton's comment about pretending to be a Stork.
Dr. Kerzach was jolted awake by a bump. "Ugh! Damn it! These roads are terrible!"
He then turned to the scientist to his left. "So where are we heading exactly?"
Another bump jolted the lab.
"Dunno. But I've heard that we'll be heading through downtown Vegas. We can't really route a way around Vegas, ya know." the scientist replied.
"Hmm. Maybe I can get off and gamble there." Dr. Kerzach replied.
The man shook his head. "We're not getting off this lab. If you need to use the bathroom, there's two at the end of the lab."
Dr. Kerzach got up from the seat and went to the bathroom. He locked the door and proceeded to use the facilities. When he was done, examined the walls. He noticed that they were relatively thin steel and that he could penetrate them with his knife, if he still had it.
He left the bathroom and sat back down. The scientist who he had spoke with previously was now asleep.
Dr. Kerzach then turned to Shelton. "Shelton, the walls in the bathroom are real thin. If we can find something to penetrate the walls, we may be able to cripple the lab by either cutting or tearing out the wiring." he whispered.
(OOC - They won't actually do that. Have Shelton justify a reason for it.)
-
"I'm not sure if that's a good idea. For one, if we're going fast enough for the bumps to knock me over, I think it's too fast to bail out of a moving convoy," Shelton cautioned.
-
Before Feral and Aiko departed, the Panther passed his rifle to Dr Joe, who looked back at him with a confused look, but then slung it over her shoulder and followed Vic and the others to the exterior of the base...
----------
As the Dragonstorm experiments and mercenaries make their own way out, Ariol's cell phone goes off. A quick look at caller ID informs him of who it is. "Come in, Fly Swatter," he answered.
"We are less than half-an-hour from the base," replied the caller. "We'll be there to pick you up. Also, there's a group of choppers coming from another direction, and not to forget some vehicles trailing behind Exodus. You want us to shoot them from existence before then?"
"Do it. I want as little rebel survivors as possible. We'll be on top when you get back."
"Fly Swatter out..."
----------
Fly Swatter happens to be four fully-armed Cayuse helicopters in formation from the south. Two soon peeled off to give chase behind Exodus, while the other moved to intercept the other chopper squad...
----------
Feral's pick-up, a team of four Black Hawks, including the lead from the insertion attack, quickly make speed to their rendezvous point.
"Echo 2. Unidentified aircraft on radar. Two count fast-moving copters. Closing distance on our position."
"Echo 1. No other support in extraction. Bogeys may be hostile. Echo 2 and 4, move to intercept and confirm."
"Echo 2. Roger that."
Two Black Hawks broke away from the group...
-
Dr. Bjurling and Dr. Falco followed Vic and his team.
-------------------
"Ah [censored]!" Dr. Ostermann shouted as he spotted the search light of the 2 helos in the distance. Dr. Volkowitz then mashed the accelerator and drove up to Dr. Zanasiu's Humvee and gestured for him to roll down the window.
"2 choppers are chasing us!" Dr. Ostermann shouted. Dr. Volkowitz slowed down until he was in the middle of the pack.
Dr. Zanasiu then radioed PFC Reynolds and Sgt. Stern. "Stern, Reynolds! Two choppers are trailing us in the distance. If they approach, shoot them!" He then shouted behind him. "You too Hans!"
(OOC - Can I assume Clyco took a turret on one of the Humvees?)
-
"Step on the gas Alfred.. GUys get ready to take out those copters. they hit us.. we're all dead' Aisha said..' so don't miss..' aisha said as the truck continued down the road at a good clip.. for a truck...
-
"If they lasted this long, they must be as good as soldiers. Fire rockets to get them off course!"
The Cayuse choppers sped up on the vehicles and launched a volley of small rockets at them...
----------
The team broke through the roof of one of the buildings, scanning the area for danger...
----------
Feral and Aiko had reached the computer and began to hack into the Dragonstorm database. It was soon that they came across some encrypted information set up by someone very high up in the pecking order.
"Can you crack it?"
"In about three minutes..."
-
"Evade!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted as the rockets exploded around them.
The vehicles wildly swerved around the explosions.
Hans tried his best to lock onto one of the Cayuse helos. Eventually he managed to get a lock and he let the system automatically fire the powerful laser cannon.
Dr. Ostermann, Dr. Greene and Nixon opened fire on the helos with their firearms.
Alfred, tried his best to weave the large truck around the explosion.
-
Aisha clung to the front of the truck as they evaded the helicopter missles..'don't stop..' she fairly yelled..
-
"Take my shotgun!" Alfred shouted, as he weaved around the exploding rockets. He then noticed a sign that read "Las Vegas: 300 miles."
"They wouldn't." Alfred muttered. "Dragonstorm's heading through Vegas!" he shouted.
Dr. Greene was hit in the leg with shrapnel but he and Nixon continued shooting.
Ridley flew at the helicopters, flared his wings and beeped aggressively
-
Oh God.. They're using the residents of Vegas as human shields!' Aisha exclaimed. "We have to catch up to them, and shoot out the tires of the vehicle..."she said desperation seeping in.. she grabbed the shot , Stuck it out the window, and began firing at the copter..
-
"At this time." Alfred looked at the truck's clock. It read 12:05 AM. "Oh, [censored]! There's lots of people on the street at this time!" He then pushed the accelerator as far as possible. The truck's speedometer topped out at 100 miles per hour. The roar of the diesel engine was deafening. He soon zoomed past the Humvees and the Stryker.
Luckily, the truck had a radio system installed, which Alfred took advantage of. "James, this is Alfred, they're heading through Vegas. We must stop them before they get to Vegas. If we don't we could have a lot of dead civilians."
The Humvees and Stryker vehicles did the same. Unfortunately, the armored vehicles were nowhere as fast as the unarmored truck. But they still topped out at their maximum speed.
------------------------------
While Dr. Volkowitz and Dr. Ostermann were shooting at one of the helos, the other managed to directly strike the sedan with a rocket, destroying it in a ball of fire.
------------------------------
Dr. Branston activated the exterior cameras on the base and grinned as he saw a fireball erupt in the distance. "That's one pursuer down."
-
The rifle blast homed in on one of the small choppers, incinerating it in a huge fireball. The remaining chopper swerved to escape the debris, but continued the chase. It next fires its high-caliber machine guns at the trailing car, often pelting into the vehicle. It too decides to lock-on a missile at it...
----------
Ariol and the others reached the hangar themselves, and they later uncover a small helicopter underneath a tarp. One of the hitmen gets in to start the motor...
----------
The two groups of combat helicopters quickly closed the distance and flew past each other. Both sides knew the other is hostile, and they began their dance of war in the twilight sky...
----------
"Boss, I think I got something..." Aiko's eyes widened
"What is it?"
"It looks like a procedure for self-destruction if the project is breached... Why does it talk about a bomb?"
-
Hans waited for the beep that signaled that the laser was ready to fire again. He saw the trail of fire that signaled a missile launch. "James! I think we've got a launch!"
Almost immediately, the laser automatically locked onto the missile and destroyed it, pelting the vehicles with a hail of flaming debris.
"What the hell!?" Hans shouted. "I didn't order it to do that!"
"Be glad." James replied. "It saved our asses."
-------------------
The Stryker's armor was, fortunately, tough enough to withstand the deadly .50 caliber rounds.
--------------------
Dr. Greene fired a grenade at the remaining helo but the grenade did not clear the distance and harmlessly exploded on the ground below the helo.
"Forget about that! Use it on the ground escorts! And we're in the front of the group, you nearly blew up one of our allies!" Nixon said, reloading his shotgun.
Dr. Greene loaded another grenade into the launcher but he fired a burst of .223 rounds at the helo.
----------------------
"Aisha! We're getting close!" Alfred shouted. He could make out the outlines of the escort vehicles in the distance.
-
Several rounds hit the armor near Corporal Stern. "Damn... this is not good. Those rounds are getting close to me... how long can the armor hold out?" thought the soldier.
"Are we near to our destination?" Stern said, rightly anxious to get out of his current position.
-
"What the hell is going on?" asked Shelton. "Why is there shooting?"
"Our enemy has followed us from Pelvanida and is in pursuit. Don't worry; our air escorts and convoy are more than enough to destroy them. Already one enemy truck has been incinerated!"
Shelton blanched. "Someone's been killed!" he gasped to Kerzach, then lowered his voice to a whisper. "James and the others are in serious danger. Is there anything we can do?"
-
He then turned to the nearest scientist. "Excuse me but is this lab armed? I'm concerned that they may break through our defenses."
The scientist grinned. "It is indeed. Two 20 mm autocannons have been installed. They are underneath hidden panels in the side of the lab and will deploy at Dr. Branston's orders."
Dr. Kerzach then turned to Shelton. "We'll need to find those autocannons and disable them. We can't cripple the power supply because there's a good chance we'll get electrocuted and we'll be discovered and killed."
-
Shelton nodded. "Lead the way. I think I can do that."
-
Luckily, most of the scientists were asleep.
Dr. Kerzach got up and headed to the bathroom, which were at the back of the lab, the farthest from the truck's cab. He gestured for Shelton to follow.
-
Aisha continued firing at the Pursuing hElicopter, one hitting the windshield and cracking it.. but the windshield was thick enough that that bullet did not go through..
-
Dr. Greene stitched the windshield of the attacking helicopter but all he did was crack parts of the windshield
"Damn it! This must be armored glass!" Dr. Greene shouted.
Nixon shot at helicopter but the armored glass was able to withstand the shotgun blast.
"If only I had slugs. I may be able to smash through the windshield." Nixon said.
Ridley beeped angrily and some lights on his body flashed red. He then began trying to tear through the helicopter's windshield with his beak.
-
Aisha continued firing... until her ammo began to to run low.. "Aim for the fuel tanks! She yelled..'
-
His turret out of ammunition, Coropoal Stern was forced to use his sidearm to continue the conflict. "Is there any chance we can GET OUT OF HERE?!" A rare outburst to be sure, but given the circumstances, he had his reasons...
-
"I would if they weren't armored!" Nixon yelled back. He was running low on ammo as well.
"Any way we can shake them?" Dr. Greene yelled back.
"Guys, we're getting closer to Vegas! But we're also catching up!" Alfred shouted as he spotted a sign that read "Las Vega: 220 miles" He also noticed that the outlines of the escort vehicles and Lab 101 were visible in the distance.
----------------------
"I'm going as fast as I can! The Stryker can't go faster than 65 mph!" PFC Reynolds shouted. He then radioed Dr. Zanasiu. "Zanasiu! Do something about that [censored] helo!"
"On it." Dr. Zanasiu's voice replied.
----------------------
The beep of the laser turret indicated that it was fully charged.
Hans almost locked the turret onto the helo but he noticed Ridley tearing at the helo's airframe and windshield. "James, one of our friendlies is attacking the helo. I can't fire."
James swore and radioed PFC Reynolds. "We can't fire; a friendly is attacking the helo."
An outburst of profanities came through the radio.
----------------------
"Corporal Stern, Zanasiu reports that a friendly is attacking the helicopter. He cannot fire." PFC Reynolds said.
-
Aisha ducked back inside. " Drat.. I only have a few bullets left' She complained, tossing the shotgun aside ' We did a good job though on the glass, it's cracked probably halfway though.."
-
(OOC - I assume you meant Alfred's shotgun. The only rifleman on board is Nixon.)
"Well, we probably ruined their aim." Dr. Greene said, flattening down on the truck bed.
Nixon looked up and spotted Ridley tearing at the helo's airframe. "Ridley will probably bring the helo down for us." A piece of the helo's airframe fell off, narrowly missing the truck.
"Conserve ammo!" Alfred shouted.
"We are!" Nixon shouted back.
-
DR Landon meanwhile was crouched down behind the back seat.. just keep driving Alfred" He said " we can't afford to stop..
-
The situation was bad... no bullets left in his gun now. "Out of ammo! Repeat! Ability to return fire has been compromised on my front!" Stern shouted.
-
"I thought we weren't going to do the D. B. Cooper bail," Shelton nervously whispered, forgetting nobody could hear them in the bathroom. "Don't we need to shut down the turrets?"
-
"I have feeling that the turrets are in the back. We're in the back right now." Dr. Kerzach said. He gently untaped one of the stolen spur knives, placed it on the sink and got to work tapping the walls until he heard the steel ring with a hollow wound.
"Shelton, flush the toilet." Dr. Kerzach said, picking up the spur knife. "I'm going to cut the wall."
----------------------------
Alfred radioed everyone. "Conserve ammo for the other escorts." He then spotted the lights of Vegas in the distance. "We'll be entering Vegas soon! There's a good chance we'll have to chase them through there."
-
Shelton pulled the toilet handle. "Ah, I see what you're doing. I think."
-
Dr. Kerzach used the noise of the toilet flushing and the tank refilling to tear through the thin sheet steel with the spur knife. He peeled away the sheet steel until he came to another layer of sheet steel and a gap between two studs through which he and Shelton could squeeze through. He then cut through the other layer of sheet steel with the spur knife.
"We're through. I can see the machinery room of the autocannon. It's a tight fit though." Dr. Kerzach said.
-
the outline of Vegas could now be clearly seen as the truck continued trying to catch up to the convoy, which it gradually did.. they were now less than 100 miles away from the city. "We have to go faster, , if possible . id 100 the fastest this thing can go?" Aisha asked Alfred..
-
"Who should go first?" Shelton made some measurements by eye. "You look taller and wider than me. I'll head in first."
He squeezed his way through the wall, with much difficulty. "I'm not positive you can fit in here. You might. Tell me if you need help."
-
"I can't go any faster." Alfred replied. "We went through half a tank already."
--------------------
Zachary cursed as he realized that his Humvee was almost out of fuel. He then radioed everyone. "I've got to get fuel."
He then exited the highway and droveinto a truck stop.
--------------------
Dr. Kerzach ducked his head and squeezed into the machinery room.
"Find something that looks like it could be for the autocannon." Dr. Kerzach said.
-
"We need ammo, too! I've got nothing left to shoot!" Coporal Stern exclaimed.
-
"The flies have formidable weapons," the trailing helo called in. "Call off the attack against the enemy choppers. Exodus must escape..."
----------
The two fighting Cayuse copters got the message and quickly pulled away, sending off a trail of flares to ward off any missile attacks as they moved to meet up with their remaining comrade.
"What was that about?" Echo 4 asked.
"They're going in the same direction as that convoy," Echo 2 replied. "Pursue them. We must keep them away from the base as possible."
"Roger that."
Both Black Hawks moved in formation to chase down the enemy bogeys...
----------
As the chopper was being towed out, Ariol caught the sound of helicopters reaching the base, but it was too deep to be a Cayuse. He turned to two of the assassins, both of whom knew what he was thinking. They pulled out anti-armor sniper rifles and departed to the roofs...
----------
"Sounds like they have a last ditch effort to keep anyone from taking down Dragonstorm. And...they have at least two more facilities set up for operations. Save that and get to the roof. Our pick-up must be close now."
----------
As soon as he saw the choppers inbound, Vic tossed several flares across the roof, giving off a light brighter than all the fires about the base yet to have been put out...
-
"Oh, so 100 is the top speed of his vehicle, obh well. keep driving, until you can find a gas station..there should be some in Vegas.." Aisha replied, sitting back against the seat.
-
Ridley had now torn a hole in the side of the remaining helicopter. He entered the helo, perched on the control column, flared his wings and beeped aggressively at the two terrified soldiers.
---------------------------
He drove to the truck stop and bought a AR-15 rifle and an entire ammunition can of .223 ammunition. The clerk didn't charge him as soon as he showed his Pelvanida ID and declared it was for official business. He placed the weapons in his Humvee and drove to an empty fuel pump. He soon filled the tanks of his Humvee and paid for the fuel using a wad of cash he had swiped from a dead Dragonstorm scientist previously. He immediately drove off without bothering to get the change.
"Stern, this is Zachary. I have an AR-15 and ammo for you." Zachary said. He spotted the lights of the pursuing convoy in the distance and pushed the accelerator to the floor. He groaned as he realized that the speedometer would only go up to 60 miles per hour.
--------------------------
Alfred spotted the edge of Vegas. "Great, we're in Vegas."
Dr. Greene spotted an ad for the Luxor Hotel. "Yep, We're in Vegas."
"Damn it! Now we got to contend with traffic, innocent civilians and enemy weapons fire!" Nixon shouted.
-
"Lets keep going.. We may to have slow down to avoid getting pulled over by the LVPD... which the Dragonstorm guys aren't concerned about that.."
-
"The Dragonstorm guys will probably just shoot anyone who tries to stop them." Dr. Greene replied.
"Do you really think the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police is going to pull over a Humvee with a guy manning the gun turret?" Alfred asked. "Or an 8 wheeled armored vehicle? Or a truck with that has 4 armed scientists all with official ID?"
"Don't take that chance. Slow down." Nixon said.
Alfred radioed everyone. "Obey the speed limit! We can't waste time getting caught!"
He slowed the truck down from 75 mph to 40 mph but it was too late; he saw the red and blue flashing lights of a police car in the rearview mirror. "Ah, [censored]!" He could also see the lights of the other convoy vehicles behind him, they too were slowing down.
-
Most of the pedestrians were running as fast away as they could from the oncoming vehicles, but one bystander whipped out a pistol and fired before the Humvees raced past him. The bullet whizzed by Hans.
"What the--? What the hell's up with that guy!?!?" he stammered, ducking.
"Welcome to Vegas."
___________________________________________________
"Well," reasoned Shelton, "Since they've got to be on the outside of the vehicle..." he squeezed his way between pipes and hoisted himself off the ground. "It's up here," he said. "They've got it stationed on top of Lab 101. I can reach it."
-
Dr. Kerzach heard someone pounding on the bathroom door. He quickly squeezed through the opening, flushed the toilet and squeezed back through the opening.
"Shelton, I hear sirens. I think the police are chasing them. Of course, that means they are probably chasing our guys as well." Dr. Kerzach said. "Of course, I doubt the guys will stop for the police. Man, it takes gonads of silicon carbide to flagrantly disobey the police and chase some rogue scientists. Luckily, everyone here's that badass."
-----------------------------
Hans spotted the flashing red and blue lights of a police car in front of them. He squinted and saw a Bison and two men arguing with a police officer.
"They got Alfred!" Hans shouted
Dr. Zanasiu nodded and radioed everyone. "Alfred has been caught. Do not stop! Repeat, Do not stop!"
He then noticed his fuel on the Humvee running low. He pulled into a gas station and filled the diesel tank.
"Shouldn't we be continuing the chase?" Hans asked.
"Can't chase if we've got no fuel." Dr. Zanasiu replied. He noticed a police car, lights flashing turn into the gas station. "Oh [censored]!" He hopped back into the Humvee and drove off without paying for the fuel.
"Get back here!" the manager shouted. He pulled out a pistol and brandished. "Get back here or I shoot!"
Hans swiveled the laser turret towards the man as Dr. Zanasiu drove off
-----------------------------
Zachary was now at the city limits of Vegas. He wisely slowed down to the speed limit. Unfortunately, he heard the wail of sirens.
"Damn it! I don't have time for this [censored]!" He shouted. He continued driving, ignoring the sirens.
He then heard a bullet ping off his Humvee's armor. He looked out the window and noticed a random bystander shooting at him.
-
"Not counting whoever was in that truck that already got blown up," Shelton reminded him. "However brave they are, they're going to look like Tiananmen Square if we don't disable the autocannon. What should I do first?"
-
(OCC: Yes Clyco is on one of the humvee turrets)
This was exactly what Clyco didn't want to get caught up in - a car chase involving tons of shooting and violence for reasons beyond his comprehension. He was having a lot of fun though... just like a game of Doom he used to play back home.
Command was gonna burn him for this.
-
"Find something that looks like it could be the mechanism for opening the hatch and destroy it. Don't bother trying to break the ammunition feeding system. Neither of us know enough about weapons to do something like that and 20 mm ammunition are explosive rounds." Dr. Kerzach said.
-----------------------
PFC Reynolds was refueling his Stryker vehicle at a Vegas gas station. He didn't bother to pay because managed to bluff his way out of paying using his Pelvanida ID and an excuse of "official" business.
"Corporal, I wonder why the police haven't stopped us. Everyone else is reporting problems with the police." PFC Reynolds said.
-----------------------
"Clyco! Try to ward off the police! Do not kill unless you have to." Zachary shouted.
He noticed two police cars trying to deploy a spike strip. He quickly swerved around the spike strip, crossing the median and heading into oncoming traffic. He then returned to his side of the highway and drove into the gas station where PFC Reynolds was refueling his vehicle.
Zachary leapt from the vehicle, handed the AR-15 and ammunition canister to PFC Reynolds, who placed them inside. "For Stern." Zachary said.
Zachary then leapt back inside the Humvee, and sped off. The wail of sirens could be heard as they chased him.
-
Aisha got out of the car. " Holding out her official military ID " Look, Officer, we are on official government business, we have been hired to track down a rogue group of sciebtists who possess WMDs and who are willing to sell them to the highest bidder..We have been tasked to stop them at any cost..
-
Shelton put his flashlight in his mouth, shined around the hatch area, located what looked like the opening mechanism, and slid an integral piece out. It was oily, and he dropped it on accident. "Whoops. That thing's not getting fixed anytime soon."
He climbed back down. "Done. Now we should get back before anyone notices we're missing."
(OOC: I'm wondering if anything should happen to the folk in the main lab that would make Shelton and Kerzach lucky for not being there.)
-
The police officer examined the ID and satisfied, let Aisha go.
He then asked for Alfred's ID. Alfred showed him the Contractor ID he was issued. The police officer shrugged but let him go nonetheless.
Dr. Greene and Nixon showed the officer their IDs and he let them go as well.
Soon the radio blared out this message: "Attention all units, be on the lookout for two Humvees. We are in pursuit of them."
"Wait, that must be James and Zachary." Alfred said. He then turned to the police officer. "Officer, those two Humvees are with us."
"All right, I'm still a little suspicious but your IDs are official so I have to let you go." the officer said. "And sorry sir, but I cannot do anything about those two Humvees, as we do not know their identities."
Alfred got back in the truck and sped off. He then radioed everyone else. "Stop for the police and tell them that you're on government business!"
"Too late! They're [censored] shooting at us!" Zachary shouted.
Alfred gulped. "Well, that's problem."
Alfred was now driving through the Vegas strip, he spotted a wrecked police car on the side and several dead pedestrians as well buildings pocked with bullet holes. "Ooh, looks like the Dragonstorm convoy went this way."
---------------------------
"Nice." Dr. Kerzach said. "And yeah, I think they are getting suspicious. A lot of people were pounding on the door."
Dr. Kerzach then squeezed his way out of the passageway. "Shelton, try and cover that hole as best you can."
(OOC - Dunno. I'd assume that police and possibly bystanders have shot at the lab but the lab is armored so nothing much will really happen.)
-
(OOC: yeah, bummer. Oh well.)
"What exactly are we going to tell them if they ask why both of us were in the bathroom for so long?" asked Shelton, wedging the removed chunk of sheet-metal wall as good as he could. "I mean, I'm all for the new identity, but I doubt they'll believe we were so inspired by the Exodus that we declared our love for each other."
-
Aisha kept on the lookout. ' better pick-up the pace Alfred, that little chat with the cops probably cost us 15 minutes which we'll now have to make up.. and we can't exactly start shooting at them.."
-
"I'll come out of the bathroom first. Then you come out after several minutes. Or perhaps see if you can get out through the machinery room." Dr. Kerzach said. He then exited the bathroom and returned to his seat.
-------------------------
Luckily, the streets were deserted after the Dragonstorm convoy went down that path and Alfred was able to push the truck to its top speed of 100 mph. There were a few police officers present but they ignored the truck.
"I wonder if Zach and everyone else can identify themselves to the cops without getting arrested or shot? I mean it's pretty obvious they really pissed off the cops." Alfred said.
In the distance were the taillights of the Dragonstorm convoy and they grew closer.
------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu cursed as he heard bullets ping off the armored Humvee.
He could see Alfred's truck in the distance.
-----------------------
Zachary was driving around in a relatively bad part of Vegas. He managed to lose the police but he himself was lost. He began to head towards the Vegas strip when someone pointed a shotgun at the Humvee. He immediately ran the man over and continued going towards the Vegas strip.
"Probably a carjacker." he muttered.
-
Shelton made to lay low, then heard, "Oh, thank god. Excuse me," and realized someone else was about to enter the bathroom. Hoping Kerzach could stall for him, Shelton slid the sheet metal out of the way and squeezed into the machine room, just ahead of the upcoming occupant. No time to put the sheet metal back.
The scientist poked his head into the machine room, curious. After a few seconds of not seeing much, he shrugged and his head disappered.
The second the head was gone, Shelton crawled out of the machine room corner, dropping the sheet metal he'd hid behind. Using the pipes to climb over the sight zone of the bathroom hole, Shelton reached the other end of the machine room.
Here there was an entrance to the main lab; the old secret elevator shaft, which had been cleared and sealed. A series of rungs led up to the top of the lab.
I wonder if I'd get radio reception up there, he thought. I could contact James and see who had been in the destroyed truck, or if I could help them out somehow.
Making sure not to look down (for the bottom of the elevator shaft was open to the road speeding below him), Shelton grabbed the rungs and started up to the roof of the lab.
-
Yeah they did, but that can't be helped.. just keep driving Al, you're doing a good job.." Aisha said. " Does anyone like Sudoku,?' Dr Labndon said ' I bought a book of soduku puzzles at the last gas stop while Alfred was gettinbng gas..
-
"How can you even think of Soduku now?" Dr. Greene said.
Nixon ducked under a glass beer bottle thrown at him. "Wow. Nice city."
"Locals are probably pissed off because Dragonstorm killed a few of them." Alfred replied.
Suddenly, Werner's Humvee darted from a side street and joined the chase. Since there was not enough room for the two vehicles, Werner resorted to driving on the curb. Most of the pedestrians ran but a few threw debris or even shot at the vehicles.
"Alfred, this is Werner, the radio blared. Dr. Zanasiu and Hans are in deep [censored]. Over"
"Werner, this is Alfred, what the hell happened? Over."
"Alfred, this is Werner, Hans just cut a LVMPD SWAT truck in half with his Humvee's laser cannon. "
"Wait, Hans did what!?" Alfred shouted over the radio.
"The truck tried to ram him off the road. Werner out."
Alfred swore repeatedly. "Great, thanks to Hans' [censored] idiotic maneuver. The cops are now going to try and kill James and Hans."
-
Yep, Hans isn't exactly known for being bright" Aisha shook her head..
_
Well more sudoku for me..' Dr Landon shrugged as he worked on his puzzle..
-
Shelton reached the top of the ladder. Wrapping his arm around the top rung, he poked his head over the roof of the lab.
Wind whipping through his head, he saw the chaos of Las Vegas running in fright from the oncoming convoy. Some brave citizens were even taking potshots at the lab, but nothing penetrated the armor, and whoever was driving seemed to like aiming for shooters.
Shelton poked his head back down. He grabbed the radio/flashlight with his free hand. He had reception, and a cramp in both legs.
He tried every channel one by one. "Reciever, this is Shelton, please respond. Reciever, this is Shelton, please respond. Reciever, this is Shelton--"
"Shelton!" Bradley's voice came on over the radio. "Where the hell have you been! Get up here to the control room, I have to fill you in on what's happened."
"Uh, can't do that, sorry. Kerzach and I are in Lab 101--"
"What‽ You're where?"
"Just patch me through to James!"
There was silence. Then Bradley said. "Patching. Wait two seconds before speaking."
Shelton pressed the radio closer to limit the wind interference. "James! This is Shelton! Do you hear me?"
-
"Damned would be heroes!" Dr. Branston shouted. One lucky shot had managed to destroy a camera. He activated both autocannons. He noticed that one refused to deploy. He then spoke into the PA system. "Someone check the left autocannon! The [censored] thing won't deploy."
Keegan O'Neill got up from his seat and headed to the rear to check the autocannons.
-------------------------
"This is James." Dr. Zanasiu said. "And Shelton, where the hell are you?! It sounds like you're inside a [censored] wind tunnel!"
A jolt shook the Humvee as a police cruiser foolishly rammed it. A police helicopter flew overheard trying to give the sniper a clear shot at Hans. A bullet struck near his head.
"Back off!" Hans shouted, swiveling the turret at the helicopter. Another shot struck near his head. Hans then fired the turret and cut off part of the helicopter's landing gear. The helicopter retreated.
Dr. Zanasiu heard the sound of the laser turret recharging itself for another shot. "Hans! Stop shooting at the police! This wouldn't have happened if you hadn't cut the SWAT truck in two!"
"Says the guy who stole $800 worth of diesel fuel." Hans countered.
-
"I'm on Lab 101!" Shelton yelled back. "And Kerzach's in it! We're disguised as Dragonstorm scientists!"
-
"You're in there!?" Dr. Zanasiu replied. "Anything major going on in there? Right now, the cops are after Hans, Zachary and myself. In particular Hans, because he decided to cut a SWAT truck in half and cut off part of a police helicopter's landing gear."
----------------
O'Neill entered the closet where the machinery for the left autocannon was located. He examined it and noticed that the part that opened the hatch was missing.
His ears swiveled as he heard someone talking. He headed towards the source of the speech, right to where the old elevator shaft was located.
-
(OOC: do you want him to tell James about the bomb?)
"Well, I hope you get away, 'cause they won't be happy to find out the one terrorist they didn't lock up went on a shooting spree!" Shelton stretched his legs. "James! We recieved word that a truck was destroyed! Who was in it?"
-
"I think it may have been one of the ADSA members Bradley sent to help us." Dr. Zanasiu replied. He swerved around a spike strip, demolishing a street sign in the process. He then radioed everyone else. "Shelton and Kerzach are alive! They're inside Lab 101."
-----------------
O'Neill drew his pistol and peered inside the elevator shaft and spotted a pair of legs. His ears also swiveled as Shelton spoke.
"Hey, who are you talking to!" O'Neill shouted up the elevator shaft.
(OOC - Yes, it makes sense that Shelton would know first about it because he's there while Aiko, Feral and everyone else have to dig through the computer banks and break encryption.)
-
Aisha Continued keeping an eye in front of them as they slowly gained ground on the dragonstorm vehicles.. ' when we get close enough, i'm shooting out thier tires' She said to Alfred. " Just get me close enough for a good look.."
-
Shelton's blood ran cold. "Got to go!" he hissed, And looked around wildly. There was nowhere to hide. Unless...
This elevator shaft opened into the road. If Shelton could get the person to climb up after him, maybe he could knock him into the road.
Holding onto the top rung like a vice, Shelton crawled onto the roof of the lab. Luckily wires and pipes stuck out of the roof of the lab, and he pressed his feet against two secure ones, keeping him from sliding off the lab and getting crushed by the following convoy.
He clipped his radio to his belt. That left his hand free, which he curled into a fist and cocked, aimed right at the elevator opening.
C'mon..., he thought to himself. Show your face, I dare you...
(OOC: Were you planning on Shelton doing something else? I can't let him respond to O'Neill, since Oneill knows his voice. I'm thinking Oneill uses the last of his composure to get himself back into the machine room, and Shelton can follow and knock him out with the flashlight. Or O'Neill can fall to his death, whichever works.)
-
(OOC - I want O'Neill to survive into the next RP. Shelton can disarm him <perhaps by knocking his pistol onto the road?> and O'Neill will wisely retreat into the machinery room, there he expects to fight Shelton. Shelton can then either knock him out or lock him in the machinery room or both. Obviously, Shelton will not fight O'Neill hand to hand.)
(OOC - Remember that there are other armed vehicles in the convoy.)
"I can see them!" Alfred shouted. "Aisha, everyone, get ready to start shooting!"
Almost at the same time, a gatling gun popped up from one of the escorting SUVs and began firing.
"Oh [censored]!" Alfred shouted, jerking the truck to dodge the gunfire.
Dr. Greene fired a grenade at the SUV. The jerking threw his aim off and the grenade missed the turret and landed on the sidewalk. Dr. Greene reloaded and fired again, this time, the grenade landed on the hood of the SUV and killed the driver and immobilized the SUV.
"Nice shooting!" Nixon said. He shot an armed man stumbling out of the wrecked SUV.
------------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary managed to find the convoy but they were behind everyone else.
------------------------------
PFC Reynolds had finally managed to fill the tanks of the Stryker vehicle. He sped out of the gas station, following the trail of destruction wrought by the chase.
------------------------------
Keegan swore as he got no response. He holstered his pistol, grabbed the rungs of the ladder and climbed up to the roof, when he got to the top, he held on with one hand and blindly aimed his pistol around the roof. "Show yourself!"
-
(OOC: did you mean to put something where that quotation mark is? and how do I get Shelton to fight O'Neill without O'Neill getting a good look? Seems Shelton would need to gt rid of O'Neill before O'Neill has time to register what his attacker looks like,)
-
(OOC - Shelton can knock O'Neill off the ladder but O'Neill can catch himself before he falls onto the road. O'Neill will then retreat into the machinery room)
-
Shelton lunged forward, knocking the pistol out of O'Neill's hand, where it skittered along the rooftop and fell onto the road below.
O'Neill let out a cry before his assailant punched him in the hand holding the rung, causing him to fall backwards and hit the elevator shaft. As he slid down, he managed to push off with his legs and come to a crash in the machinery room, preventing his own death by asphalt.
He started to get to his knees, rubbing his eyes, when the attacker leapt down from the rungs and smashed something heavy into his face. O'Neill hit the ground and stayed there.
Shelton, panting heavily, put the flashlight back on his belt. "That was for the salad incident." He checked O'Neill's pulse. He was unconscious, but alive.
Shelton wanted nothing more than to evacuate the crime scene, but instead climbed back up the rungs until he had radio reception. Then he radioed James again.
"James! Sorry about that! I'm okay! but I've got something important to tell you! There's a 50 kilo fusion bomb located back at Pelvanida, with a timer of thirty minutes! I'm guessing Branston's going to activate it once this lab is safely away, but everyone in Pelvanida, Carson City, Las Vegas, they'll either die or suffer serious side effects! And I have no clue how much time's left!"
-
"What!?" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. "You're telling me there's a [censored] bomb at Pelvanida?!" He then radioed everyone on the team. "Everyone, this is James, Shelton has reported that a bomb is at Pelvanida, he has no idea when the bomb will be set off. Decide whether we should break off the chase and return to Pelvanida or try and catch Lab 101 and see if we can stop the detonation."
--------------------------
Dr. Branston tried to activate the left autocannon. He swore as it failed to activate.
"Someone check the autocannon out! And see if Keegan's all right." Dr. Branston ordered over the PA system.
-------------------------
Dr. Kerzach got out of his seat. He entered the machinery room and closed the door behind himself. "Shelton, are you there?"
-
A Bomb! Turn around Alfred!' Aisha said.."If that bomb goes off, vegas will be downwind from it.. can we get back there in 30 minutes?"
-
"If we follow Lab 101, we'll escape the blast radius and survive to fight another day," said Hans. "Plus if leave we'd be abandoning Shelton."
______________________________
Shelton climbed back into the machine room. "Kerzach, we need to get out of here. I warned James about the bomb, but O'Neill discovered me and I had to knock him out. He didn't get a good look at me, but it won't matter if they find us here."
-
James nodded. "Pelvanida's mostly empty anyways. I hate to say it but we won't make it back in 30 minutes. Besides, it doesn't feel right to leave Shelton here."
---------------------
Alfred shook his head. "It's..." He looked at the clock. "0232. It took us over 4 hours to get from Pelvanida to the heart of Vegas. We can't make it back. And there's the risk that we could get caught in the blast zone."
---------------------------
PFC Reynolds shook his head. "James, we cannot make it back to Pelvanida in time. I'm sorry but we'll have to sacrifice it."
---------------------------
Zachary and Werner radioed in simultaneously. "James, we must sacrifice Pelvanida. There is no way we can make it back in time."
---------------------------
James sighed and radioed Shelton. "Shelton, we can't make it back to Pelvanida. At best, the bomb detonates while we're several hundred miles from it and turns Pelvanida into a smoking crater. At worst, we're inside the blast zone and we get fatally irradiated or incinerated."
---------------------------
"[censored]!" Dr. Kerzach muttered. "How the hell can we jump out of a lab when it's going like 60+ miles per hour?"
Suddenly, the lab began to slow down and something glass was heard breaking against the side of the lab as well as gunfire.
"We can ditch now!"
---------------------------
Dr. Branston radioed the truck driver. "What the hell is going on?!"
"The LVMPD organized a [censored] posse! Now we've got armed civilians and cops to deal with." The driver radioed back.
Dr. Branston radioed the driver back. "I don't give a [censored] who they are! If they won't move, kill them!"
He then remaining autocannon and the exterior cameras. He saw the armed escorts shooting it out with the armed civilians and police. He also noticed another group of armed civilians and police coming from the right side. One of the civilians hurled a molotov cocktail which burst against the side of the lab.
Dr. Branston grinned and proceeded to mow down the mob with a short bursts of explosive shells.
-----------------------------
"What the hell?" Alfred asked. He saw the posse engaging the Dragonstorm convoy but the convoy's escorts were making short work of the posse, even though a molotov cocktail set one of the armed SUVS on fire.
(OOC - Pure fusion bombs don't produce fallout. They only produce short lived neutrons. However, it is justifiable that the characters act like there will be fallout as they automatically assume it is a huge fission bomb or a "traditional" fusion bomb <uses a fission bomb as a trigger>.)
-
Aisha pulled her gun aimed for the whells and fired there was loud bang as obne of her bullets found its mark in the right back tire of the nearby armored tank..
-
(OOC:Wait, really? I thought the whole point was to leave Shelton and Kerzach there. Then they serve as inside agents when James and co. find Lab 101 in the third RP. and Pelvanida is going to explode?)
-
(OOC - The roof will be set on fire and it is a 10+ foot drop to pavement. Shelton and Kerzach will remain in Lab 101.)
(OOC - The characters think Pelvanida's going to explode but Dr. Branston and Dr. Zenarchis have not triggered the countdown yet.)
A molotov cocktail landed on the roof of the lab, setting it on fire.
More gunfire could be heard.
"On second thought. Let's not ditch." Dr. Kerzach said.
-----------------
The armored SUV swiveled its gatling gun and shot at Alfred's truck. Suddenly, half the gatling gun fell off.
Behind Alfred's truck was Dr. Zanasiu's laser armed Humvee.
-
"Talk about a rock and a hard place," groaned Shelton, looking at the speeding road outside and the approaching people inside. "We could escape through the bathroom, but we won't be in any position to help James and the others."
-
Aisha ducked in as the SUV fired at them.. "Don't stop Aldfred, we're not letting them get away...' She grinned as Zanuisu's lasr sliced through the gun, rendering it useless.
-
"Not to mention we'll get shot. You hear the gunfire outside?" Dr. Kerzach said. "If we ditch, the crowd will think we're Dragonstorm scientists and they'll try to kill us."
------------------------------
The convoy soon made short work of the posse. Even the police officers chasing Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu retreated.
------------------------------
"We're rolling!" The truck driver called out through the radio.
"Good. Who do those pests think they are? Rambo?" Dr. Branston replied via radio.
The convoy soon continued on its path though the city.
--------------------------
Nixon shot a man who tried to throw a molotov cocktail into the bed.
Dr. Greene was forced to grenade a bunch of armed civilians when they shot at Alfred's truck.
"Hey, the fountains of the Bellagio Hotel." Alfred said, spotting the famed fountains, uninterrupted by the fierce battle that played out in front of it."
"No time to enjoy the sights." Dr. Greene said, reloading his grenade launcher.
"I'm very low on ammo. Any chance we can stop by a gun store?" Nixon asked.
-
Shelton looked at O'Neill. "Should we bring him into the bathroom? That way whoever's coming won't find him, but I don't know what we'll do after that."
-
We Stop, They might get away" Aisha said " Conserve your ammo as best you can, if they get away, I'm going to have to explain to my father how we failed to stop them.."
-
"Why not?" Dr. Kerzach said. He then picked up O'Neill's legs. "Damn it! This guy's heavy."
---------------------
"Not to mention we'll see a rash of kidnappings in any city or town near where they set up their lab." Dr. Greene said. "You do know that we have found documents that hint at Dragonstorm kidnapping children to turn into these creatures. For all we know Ridley may once have been a Hawk boy, kidnapped and turned into a weapon of war."
Nixon sniffled slightly. "I know, I just feel guilty that we've been using him. I mean, we were using the weapons we despised. But anyways, is there a chance we can rehabilitate the rescued Dragonstorm experiments or do we have to destroy them?"
Dr. Greene shook his head. "Destroying them is the humane thing. They have no free will, they are little more than living robots."
Alfred said nothing but continued driving.
-
And what if they don't want to be destroyed? they can still serve a purpose.. we can try and bring them back to what they once were" Aisha said fiercely..
-
Shelton grabbed the other leg. Together, they dragged him through the hole in the bathroom.
"Shh!" hissed Shelton, standing flat against the wall out of sight of the hole as the door to the machinery room swung open.
-
Dr. Greene shook his head. "This process is irreversible. The few documents that we have deciphered state that their brain is actually removed and replaced in the process."
--------------
"Keegan! Are you all right?" the man asked.
Dr. Kerzach realized that he could not mimic Keegan's voice because of Keegan's light Irish brogue did not match with his own New Jersey accent. He pressed himself against the bathroom door.
-
(OOC: I didn;t actually have any plan for whoever comez through that door. I assumed you had something planned. Feel free to control whoever comes to check the autocannon.)
The idea to mimic O'Neill's voice never even occured to Shelton. He was busy being very, very quiet.
-
"What do you mean, Greene?" Corporal Stern asked. "What exactly did they do? This is a very major violation of the Geneva convention."
-
"Dragonstorm scientists have been engaged in kidnapping children for their experiments. The deciphered documents we have state that the brain of the subjects are removed and replaced with an artificial neural net. This leaves them with severely limited to nonexistent capacity for higher thought processes. They are little more than robots." Dr. Greene said.
"If anything, this is less 'illegal' than what Dragonstorm is doing! Yes, we had to kill some civilians but they attacked us first, even when we showed our weapons and threatened to fire." Nixon countered.
-----------------------
The man looked around and not finding Keegan, turned around and closed the door behind himself.
"Shelton, the coast is clear." Dr. Kerzach whispered.
-
"It's worse than I feared" Stern replied. "We had intelligence suggesting this, but we didn't believe it. When these thugs are brought to justice, there will be hell to pay. The trial for these criminals will rival that of Nuremberg..."
-
"Where now?" asked Shelton. "Back to the main room, or see if we can do more to help James and his team?"
-
"If we do this right, there won't even be a trial!" Dr. Greene said bitterly, clutching his rifle.
"Seeing what these guys have done, I'm all for just simply lining them up against a wall and shooting them." Alfred replied.
"Remember that even though the Nazis' crimes were known, we still treated them to a fair trial." Nixon said.
"[censored] fair trial in this case!" Dr. Greene spat. "We're chasing them and we've almost got them. I say we simply catch them and shoot them."
----------------------
"We'd better get back to the main room. They may get suspicious on why we were in the bathroom for a few hours." Dr. Kerzach said. He then exited the machinery room.
-
"We're not exactly doing so awesome at that whole catching part," reminded Nixon, ducking as a grenade bounced off the top of the car and landed on the pavement behind them, exploding. "Has any of our artillery penetrated the armor around Lab 101?"
-
Dr. Greene fired a grenade at Lab 101, he managed to mangle the autoturret but the explosion did nothing else. He then stitched the lab with his rifle, doing nothing but dent the armor in some places.
"Damn it!" Dr. Greene said. "We'll need need a cannon or missiles to take it down."
A grenade thrown from a convoy vehicle landed in the bed. Nixon hastily threw it over the side, where it blew up a newspaper box. Nixon shot one of the tires on the truck, to no effect.
"Guys, aiming for the tires on the truck doesn't work. They're using a new airless tire." Nixon said.
-
"Then shoot the gas tank!" Corporal Stern told Nixon. "It isn't invincible, even with run-flat tires."
Recalling the earlier comment on the Nazis... Stern didn't want to break any rules on international law in killing captured prisoners... but he was tempted to in the case of these monsters.
-
Shelton nodded. "I'll go first this time." He exited the bathroom and calmly walked back to his seat. Or at least, the spot of ground he'd christened his seat.
"Hey, Ian, when are we gonna blow that base up?" asked one of the scientists.
"Quiet," snapped the Black man. "When the commander makes his decision, you will all know. Trust us."
Shelton had forgotten about the bomb momentarily. He'd been so focused on warning James, he hadn't realized that saving Pelvanida was the more important goal. He started thinking of what he and Kerzach could do to stop the bomb themselves.
-
"I've worked with large trucks like these and the fuel tanks are in the front." Nixon said.
Alfred sped the truck up until they were right next to the fuel tank. "Go for it!"
Nixon loaded the last round in his shotgun and shot a hole in the fuel tank. Diesel fuel began to pour from the fist sized hole.
"Nice!" Dr. Greene said. He aimed at the truck and shot at the window only to find out that it was armored glass and the shots did not penetrate it. He shot at the engine compartment but it too was armored.
Suddenly, the truck tried to ram Alfred off the road. Alfred was forced to slow down to avoid getting forced into streetlight.
---------------------------
An alarm suddenly sounded in the lab.
Dr. Branston checked the console and noticed that one of the fuel tanks was leaking. He quickly pumped the remaining fuel in the internal tank in front of the lab.
"What was that?" a scientist asked.
"Fuel leak, bastards must have shot out one of the auxiluary tanks." the Black man replied.
"Shelton, how can we stop the bomb? We can't hijack the truck." Dr. Kerzach asked.
-
AIsha took aim and fired. her bullet rattled throughg the hole Nixon had made. it blew a hole in a secomd auxillary tank, and burst out through the other side with a huge bang.. " Just keep it close so i can get another good shot.. I'm taking out the driver" Aisha said..'These bastards are not going to surrender willingly, we'll end up likely having to shoot them.. which is fine by me.."
-
"Listen, I've been thinking," Shelton started, taking advantage of the rampant whispering that broke out after the second tank got shot. "Neither you nor I know a thing about explosives, so I don't want to even attempt to go there. But we know a thing about timers. If we can find the timer and shut it down, we'll have effectively rendered the bomb useless."
-
Alarms rang through the lab.
Dr. Branston pumped the remaining fuel into the internal tank and silenced the alarm. "Both auxilary tanks are gone."
------------------------
"Aisha, the truck's armored. We couldn't damage the engine or the driver's compartment with our weapons." Dr. Greene said. He fired a grenade at the truck only to have it roll off the hood and detonate underneath the cab with no visible effect.
"Looks like the external fuel tanks are the only unarmored parts." Nixon said.
Alfred kept the pickup truck close to the lab. Suddenly, he felt a huge jolt; the truck had actually rammed him.
"Hang on!" Alfred grunted, wrestling with the steering wheel. It was no use, he slowed down but ended up crashing the pickup truck through a cafe, much to the shock of the horrified patrons.
Alfred, Dr. Greene and Nixon grabbed their weapons and got out of the wrecked pickup truck.
Dr. Greene looked at the Humvees chasing after the lab. "Damn it! We have no vehicle now!"
Nixon heard the deep growl of a powerful engine and he spotted a Lamborghini Gallardo idling in front of a posh looking hotel. He winked. "Yes we do now!"
He went up the Lambo and leaned on the car. "Sir, may I borrow this vehicle?"
"Get lost! And buy your own [censored] car!" the driver, a German Shepherd in a nice suit, snarled.
Nixon aimed his shotgun at the driver. "I asked nicely. But I'm not going to be nice now. Get out of the car!"
The driver, raised his hands and exited the Gallardo. Nixon got into the car and drove to where the Nixon, Dr. Landon, Aisha and Alfred were standing.
"There's only one seat left." Nixon said.
Alfred shrugged. "Nice ride but a bit impractical." He spotted a skinny Throughbred horse unlocking a convertible. "Excuse me."
He then ran over to the Thoroughbred. "Excuse me sir, but I'm with a group of soldiers and we need to commandeer this vehicle."
The Throughbred said nothing but got in the vehicle and prepared to start the engine. He barely got the key in the ignition when Alfred seized him and threw him onto the pavement and drove off with the convertible.
He drove it to where Aisha, Dr. Landon and Dr. Greene were.
"Got another ride." Alfred said.
"What about the Lambo I 'borrowed'?" Nixon asked.
"Keep it. It's the fastest and most agile vehicle we've got."
-----------------------
Dr. Branston grinned as he looked at the exterior cameras showing the driver of the lab ramming one of the pursuing vehicles. He then activated the PA system. "Folks, I'd say we're almost there. Our helpful driver has just sent one of the pursuing vehicles through a cafe window. They're pretty much done for,"
-
Aisha Whipped out her checkbook and quickly wrote out a check. " Heres 300 grabd " She said tossing the check to the horse, who was racinf after them. Aisha and Dr Landion climbed in... as the horse picked up the check, the car sped away. 'wow' the horse murmured to himself as he walked away with the check. " they just gave me 5 times what I paid for for the car.. "
_
'lets hope this car goes faster than 100' Aisha said putting her checkbook away.."
-
"If we're almost there, then we're almost out of time," whispered Shelton, as the surrounding scientists cheered. "We need to get Branston away from--"
He was interrupted by a screech from the bathroom. "O'Neill's been hurt!" yelled a Deer scientist, leaping out of the bathroom. "He's in here!"
-
(OOC: The invaders of Pelvada is now in the public domain, feel free to initiate the tank invasion when you choose)
-
(OOC: You can initiate the invasion, Cautizer, cause I bet you really wanted to. Just once it starts let us control random soldiers.)
-
The two remaining Cayuse helicopters entered Las Vegas city limits, catching up with the pursuit without the hassle of armed civilians in their way....
The pursuing Black Hawks halted as they neared the city. They could not jeopardize any civilian lives with a fire fight in the city. They quickly radioed in to whatever precinct or National Guard in their frequency of the hostile choppers and then left to rejoin the extraction...
----------
Meanwhile, the other two Black Hawks landed near the team on the roof, just as Feral and Aiko joined them. However, two trenchcoated men with anti-armor rifles set themselves up on an adjacent roof...
Vic ran next to Feral. "You got what we came for?" he shouted over the noise.
"Yes, and we have to get out of here! There's a bomb set up to blow this base apart!."
They were only feet from the copter when a loud shot was heard, and the windshield of the copter shattered, pelting the pilot with shards of glass. Feral was the first to find the snipers, and pushed Aiko and Vic to the ground...and the second sniper's bullet punctured the base of his neck...
Snow screamed, and Dr Joe too sighted the snipers, raised the rifle that feral had given her, and fired. Her incendiary round sliced through the air to strike the scope of one of the snipers and exploded, tossing what's left of the hitman backwards.
The second assassin turned and tried to run, but was riddled with holes by one of the Black Hawk's mounted guns, and fell lifeless to the ground...
No one saw a helicopter leave the hangar and shot off towards the Mexican border, containing the assassin leader and Dragonstorm experiments left behind by Dr Branston...
The pilot only had some cuts from the windshield, but he was still fit to fly. "We gotta go now!"
Aiko and Vic picked up Feral and dragged him to the other Black Hawk for much needed room to try and save his life. X-278 pressed himself next to Snow with the fear of what he saw, but held out his hand to Dr Joe, who set the rifle down on the floor of the chopper to hold the young fox's paw.
The Black Hawks began to ascend into the night sky away from this hell. Vic hurried to pull out all the stops to save his commander...
-
Where'S the main gas line on that SUV? Aisha asked " We've taken out the auxillary tanks.. wheres the main one? We take that one out , we've got them..!"
-
Alfred pushed the accelerator to the floor and watched as the accelerator of the convertible climbed past 140 miles per hour, eventually topping out at 160.
Alfred glanced at the GPS unit. "Wait, we're heading north?"
-----------------------
"I don't know." Nixon said.
"Probably inside the armored lab." Dr. Greene said.
-----------------------
Dr. Branston radioed Ariol. "Ariol, we're heading up north. Are you taking the remaining experiments to the southern base? When you're ready, I'll set the bomb off."
"Dr. Branston, O'Neill's been hurt! He's in the bathroom." a Macaw scientist said, sticking his head into the control room. Dr .Branston and the technicians got up and headed to the bathroom leaving the control room empty.
Dr. Kerzach, sitting opposite the control room, glanced at Shelton. "We're clear." he whispered.
-
Yes keep your foot to the gas" Aisha said as she noticed the Armored SUV coming closer and closer.. "I just hope that .. what the " a cruise missile fired from a blackhawk flying over head struck the backend of the armored suv, tearing off a piece of the back of the SUV. Debris hung off the end, and fell off on the road. 'My God! That almost hit us!Dr Landon said from the back.."was that helicopter aoiming at them, or us?'
-
The Black Hawk turned its guns on the convertible and started shooting at it. The agile convertible weaved around the shots. Nixon's Lamborghini attracted the attention of one of the armored SUVs, which deployed a gatling gun and tried to shoot it but the Lambo was far too agile and fast for the gunner to hit.
"Now we know!" Dr. Greene deadpanned.
Hans, who was in the distance behind them, tried his best to lock onto the Black Hawk. He managed to get a lock and he fired, cutting the cockpit in two and killing the pilot. The helo crashed next to the road in a huge fireball.
Werner, Zachary, Dr. Zanasiu and PFC Reynolds were following behind the two sports cars. But since their vehicles were much slower they were farther off in the distance.
-------------------------
Dr. Falco radioed Bradley and Dr. Bailey. "Bradley and Bailey, this is Falco, get a vehicle and haul ass away from the base! There's a bomb in the base. Falco out."
"Where exactly are we flying to?" Dr. Bjurling asked.
-------------------------
Dr. Bailey listened to the transmission on his portable radio. "Yeah. I got shot in the leg. And I'm stuck in a [censored] office chair."
"And I got shot in the shoulder. Can't drive with one arm" Dr. Bradley replied.
Dr. Bailey thought a moment. "Bradley, see if you can push me to the parking lot. I have my keys."
(OOC - Kenjiro, are you planning to participate in the final battle of the RP or is this your way of ending your participation in the RP?)
-
Shelton led the way into the room. "give me one second," he said.
After decidedly more than one second, he admitted, "This won't be as easy as I thought. Basically, the way it's wired, if we turn the timer off, it'll just explode the second they pull the trigger."
(OOC:Is this where Kerzach suggests they crash the truck? I have an answer ready.)
-
Aisha could see into the back of the SUV.. the strike had killed a number of scientsts.. there were a couple of bodies that were visible .. she shuddered.. "that could have been us.' she said as the car swerved ti avoid another round of gunfire..
-
(OOC - They technically can't crash the truck because it is not controlled from the console but this is where Dr. Kerzach suggests sabotage.)
Dr. Kerzach looked at the control panel and grinned. "I'll bet we can do some serious damage with this panel. Maybe short out some vital systems, dump the fuel, stuff like that." He then looked at the timer. "Maybe we can set it to its maximum time. If we do that, James and his crew may have enough time to get back to Pelvanida and disable the power supply. Remember that I overheard them say it's a pure fusion bomb set off by an explosively pumped flux compression generator. These require a capacitor bank to deliver the required current to set off the generator. If James and his crew either cut the power or destroy the capacitor bank, then no mushroom cloud."
-
"Way ahead of you on the timer," Shelton said, finishing with a flourish. "9 hours and fifty-nine minutes. That's the best I can do, especially when Branston can return at any time."
Just as he said it, he saw Branston emerging from the bathroom and extricating himself from the crowd. Shelton rushed out of the control room as fast as possible.
"Hey, Ian. How bad is he?" Shelton asked quizzically, moving so Branston would look away from the control room.
-
"He's sleeping in the crew quarters right now. The odd part is that the injury on him doesn't look like it was caused by falling debris and it doesn't seem like he tripped and hit his head on anything." Dr. Branston replied.
Dr. Kerzach left the control room and sat in his chair.
-
"Odd," nodded Shelton, contining to his seat.
Once Dr. Branston had reentered the control room, Shelton leaned over to Kerzach. The other scientists were chatting about O'Neill, and Shelton silently passed the radio/flashlight to Kerzach. "One of us needs to tell James the new information about the bomb. Take this to the roof and contact James using the frequency it's currently set to. I'll keep the scientists near the door talking about O'Neill."
(OOC: Just doing this so the conversation can go fast, since you control both characters. Also, if James talks about leaving them on Lab 101, I think Kerzach would be more willing than Shelton to accept this and say Pelvanida is more important.)
-
Dr. Kerzach nodded and scaled the elevator shaft. He entered the top and braced himself against the remnants of the structural supports. He held onto one of the supports with his free hand and used his other hand to radio Dr. Zanasiu.
"James, this is Yuri, come in." Dr. Kerzach called over the roar of the wind.
"Yuri, this is James, I hear you loud and clear." James replied via the radio.
"James, Shelton and I fixed the timer. There are 9 hours and 45 minutes before the bomb goes off. It doesn't look like they triggered it yet. Kerzach out.
---------------------
Dr. Zanasiu radioed everyone on the team. "Everyone, this is James, Shelton and Kerzach have reset the bomb's timer. If we hurry, we'll have nearly 3 hours to find and disarm the bomb. We'll need everyone to save Pelvanida and the innocents that are still there."
--------------------
Alfred was barely able to hear Dr. Kerzach speak over the wind but he made out the words, "bomb" and "9 hours".
"Aisha, we've got enough time to disarm the bomb." Alfred said.
-------------------
Dr. Zenarchis, who was sitting next to Dr. Branston, pulled out his radio and the the bomb trigger from a pocket. Dr. Branston pulled out his bomb trigger. "Ariol, are all the experiments and scientists evacuated? Branston and I both have our triggers out. We await your command."
-
then turn around and head back" Aisha said.. "We'll catch up to them later..if that bomb goes off, millions will be affected and thousands will die..
-
Alfred, and Nixon made a completely illegal U-turn in the middle of the highway and headed back to Pelvanida.
-------------------
Dr. Zanasiu spotted Alfred and Nixon's vehicles heading in the opposite direction.
"Well, I guess they decided to disarm the bomb." He then radioed everyone. "Everyone, this is James, we are returning to Pelvanida. Repeat we are returning to Pelvanida!"
He along with the other vehicles behind him made totally illegal U turns in the middle of the highway and drove back towards Pelvanida.
-
' step on in Alfred if you go at top speed we should be there in a couple hours.." aisha said.. looking out as they raced out into the suburbs heade towards pelvanida.
-
Dr. Kerzach watched as the convoy broke off and headed back to Pelvanida. He put the radio away and reentered the lab.
when he did so, a Lemur scientist confronted him. "And what have you been doing, Gallo?" she demanded.
Dr. Kerzach didn't flinch. "I was inspecting the armor on the roof."
The scientist, satisfied, walked away from Dr. Kerzach.
He then went up to Shelton. "Shelton, " he whispered, handing the radio back. "James and his crew are heading back to Pelvanida. We're on our own now."
-
"That took less than a minute. Glad they spent some time agonizing about having to leave us to the wolves," Shelton commented sarcastically. He looked around. "We'll be out of the city perimeter in minutes. If you need me, I'll be calculating our odds of survival in the days ahead."
-
"Don't be so mad; I'm pretty sure they had their reasons." Dr. KErzach said.
------------------------------
"Almost out of fuel." Alfred said.
"Same here." Nixon replied. He was driving next to them.
Alfred and Nixon pulled into a gas station and hastily refueled. As soon as they were done, they drove off without paying but the cashier stopped protesting as soon as he saw Dr. Greene's military ID.
---------------------------------
"Shouldn't we head back for Kerzach and Shelton?" Hans asked.
Dr. Zanasiu shook his head. "There is only enough time to either save Shelton or Pelvanida."
"Can't we split up?"
"No. We'll need everyone we can get to find and disarm the bomb. Taking down the convoy requires everyone as well. For now, the bomb takes higher priority."
"Why?"
"There are still probably several hundred scientists and other staff in the base who do not know of the bomb, thanks to the power being cut. They'll all die if we don't disarm the bomb. It's a tough choice, sacrifice 2 or sacrifice hundreds. I would rather be responsible for two deaths than hundreds of deaths."
"But, James, you know two of those you are leaving on the convoy." Hans protested.
"Hans, I have made up my mind. I will not change it." He noticed that the fuel was nearly empty. "Great."
He pulled into a truck stop with the others following. He got out and along with the other Humvees and the Stryker, proceeded to refuel.
---------------------------------
Dr. Kerzach went to the small kitchen in the back of the lab. He helped himself to a bowl of vegan chili, which he hastily gulped down and made a tuna fish sandwich for Shelton. He then noticed a list of suppliers left on the dining table. He stuck the list into his pocket and returned to his seat.
He handed the sandwich to Shelton and began reading the suppliers list.
His eyes widened as he noticed one of the on the list names: Rara Terra Smelting.
"Shelton! I worked for one of their suppliers!" Dr. Kerzach whispered.
-
"Yeah, I still don't know who that is," asked Shelton, the re-mentioning of this unknown Smelting character causing him to momentarily forget the situation and future he was currently looking at. "She run a cold cut joint or something?"
-
"Rara Terra Smelting isn't a person." Dr. Kerzach said. "It's a metal refining corporation. True to their name they specialize in lanthanide refining. I'd assume that Dragonstorm gets their lanthanide or rare earth elements from them. And since lanthanides are mostly used in the electronics industry, I'd assume that they are a key component of raw materials for the cybernetics division."
-
You guys should at least stop and pay them" Aisha said. "theres only so many times that flashing a military badge will work.. the next time we refuel, I'll charge it..it won't take very long" She said. While they had filled the tank, she had gotten some drinks and snacks.."Who wants some pretzel sticks..?"
-
(OOC: In the latest helo battle, did you guys mean the Cayuse being taken out? The Black Hawks moved away when they neared the city.)
"We're moving to sight 4 as we speak," Ariol replied. "Leave nothing behind..."
(OOC: My good guys in general have in some ways left the action. I'll stick around if any of my chars are still needed for the story.)
-
(OOC - Yeah, the Cayuse helo was shot down.)
Dr. Branston nodded and pressed the trigger.
Dr. Zenarchis did the same. "Bomb is now primed. In 30 minutes, all of Pelvanida will be a smoldering crater."
Dr. Branston radioed Ariol. "Excellent. Bomb is now activated."
------------------------------------
Dr. Bailey and Dr. Bradley had barely made it out to the parking lot. The first hints of sunrise began to shine through the base's armored windows.
"We're not going to make it." Dr. Bradley said, panting.
Dr. Bailey looked out a window at the parking lot, seemingly miles away. "Well, I guess this it. We'll die with Dragonstorm. Zanasiu, Clyco, Stern, Landon, Tennes, Johnson... never forget." He then closed his eyes and waited for the explosion.
Dr. Bradley looked at a pistol left by the body of a Dragonstorm scientist. He picked up the pistol and held it to his temple. "Wait, what the hell am I doing?! I'll find and disarm that bomb even if it kills me!"
Dr. Bradley then headed back into the base, leaving Dr. Bailey to await the nuclear blast.
(OOC - The final act will probably be the misguided battle.)
-
(sounds good)
Aisha looked forward as they approached the enterance to the base. they had covered the ground in less than 3 hours at 150 miles an hour " Nice driving Alfred, now lets go deactivate that bomb..' Aisha said.. getting out of the car..
-
Alfred, Dr. Greene and Nixon leapt from their vehicles and ran into the base.
"The others are driving much slower than us so, it'll take some time for them to get here." Dr. Greene said.
------------------
The other vehicles had refueled and paid for the fuel.
"Can't this thing go any faster?!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted.
"No. Humvees have a top speed of 60 miles per hour." Hans replied.
"Great, it'll take us like 4-6 hours to get to Pelvanida."
-
Yes..' aisha stopped as she saw DR Bailey. "Dr Bailey! Kerzach and Shelton have managed to extend the timer on the bomb! We have a few hours to search the base and deactivate it! Can you help us?"
-
"I can't walk, the power's out. There's nothing I can do." Dr. Bailey replied, sighing as he did so.
Alfred looked at Dr. Bailey. "Bailey, nothing is impossible. I was a mere construction worker before. Now, I have successfully driven my allies through a withering hail of fire and got them here alive. There is no such thing as impossible!"
Dr. Bailey clenched his fists. "Let's do this! First, wheel me into the control room."
Alfred and Dr. Greene did so.
When they entered the control room. Dr. Greene grabbed a set of portable radios and handed them to everyone.
"I'll keep in contact with you all through the radio. Try searching in areas like the waste storage rooms or the waste treatment rooms. Be extremely careful though, both types of rooms house toxic chemicals and biohazardous materials." Dr. Bailey said.
"I'll check the contractors' storeroom." Alfred said.
"We'll check the pipe rooms." Nixon and Dr. Greene said simultaneously.
-
"Aaand...gone!"
The Dragonstorm scientists gave a cheer as the convoy exited Las Vegas territory. Dragonstorm had escaped, to fight another day.
"Thrilled," yawned Shelton, putting his hands together exactly once as improvised applause erupted around the lab. "Well, sightseeing's over, and I haven't slept since my last flight, so if nobody minds I'm going to crawl into the corner and put off being knackered."
-
I'm going with you' DR Landon said to Alfred. "I assume all the enemy forces are gone?
_
Theres still the experiements" Aisha replied " We have to free them.."
-
Dr. Kerzach yawned and applauded as he looked at his watch: 0430. "I'm going to sleep too. I literally haven't slept for nearly an entire day."
He went into the kitchen, put his head on the dining room table and fell asleep.
Dr. Branston looked at his watch. "Only 10 seconds until Pelvanida goes boom." He then sighed. "We made it after an intense building battle and a car chase worthy of Hollywood. There's no stopping us now." As he drifted off to sleep, he did not noticed the intercepted radio transmission: "This is Fort Tessect, we are acknowledging your request for a ground invasion of Pelvanida."
Dr. Zenarchis was sleeping in his chair.
----------------------------------
Alfred nodded. "I would assume the enemy scientists evacuated. One would hope the allied ones did too. But nevertheless, keep your weapons handy."
Alfred then headed down the deserted hallways. The only light came from the tactical light on his shotgun.
Dr. Bailey shook his head. "Dragonstorm probably took their experiments. The allied scientists probably evacuated the experiments with them... either that or they killed them and possibly themselves, thinking that they would never be able to outrun the explosion."
-
Well, we need to search the premises for the bomb.. what is it made out iof/ " Aisha asked. Are there any heat signatures it might give off?"
-
Alfred shook his head. "They never said what it was, but it is probably a large nuclear bomb, either fusion or fission. There's no way you can give a 50 megaton blast with ordinary explosives."
He entered a guard shack to replenish his supply of shotshells. He then turned to a room labeled "Contractor Storeroom".
He gently pushed the door open with the muzzle of his shotgun. Inside the room were two dead Rhino construction workers. Both appear to have shot themselves.
Alfred ignored the bodies and began rummaging through all the supplies.
-
Dr lAndon bent down to lok at the rhinos, but it was a cursory examination. a blood trickling from a hole in their heads. " Yes they committed suicide..' he said gravely as Aisha begun searching though thier pockets gfor any useful items.. " all she out wit h were a pair of wallets, contained ids credit card and 187 in cash between them, and a pair of sWiss Army knives.
-
"Any idea why?" Alfred asked, breaking down a locked door with a fire ax he found.
-
Possibly because they thought they had failed to stopp DRagonstorm" Dr Landon said. "These Rhinos have been dead for around 6 hours, they committed suicide while we were on that merry little chase through Vegas.. and I'd be surprised if they were the only such bodies we find.."
-
"They were construction workers. I don't see how they would know about Dragonstorm unless... yikes!" Alfred said, finally breaking through the door. He examined the room, there room was filled with nothing except sacks of cement. The body of a Raven scientist had been tossed in a corner along with a length of bloody rebar and a bloodstained lump of concrete.
"Aisha, Dr. Landon, help me move these sacks of cement." Alfred said. He picked up a 100 pound sack and tossed it aside like it weighed nothing.
-
Dr Landon grunted as he tossed the bag of cement aside, then helped Aisha throw another bag of cement. " Well this fellow was definitely mUrdered" Aisha said as they cleared another bag.. there was at least 30 bags of cement in the room..
-
Alfred tossed another bag of cement aside, then another. "I'm going to look at the scientist."
Alfred examined the Raven's body. The head was so badly battered that Alfred couldn't identify anything. He emptied out the pockets and went through all the contents. His eyes widened as he noticed the man had two ID cards: one labeled "Dr. Kevin Corvin" and another with the name "Dr. Robert Vaide". "This man's a Dragonstorm scientist! He's got 2 ID cards!"
Alfred then got back to work tossing the bags of cement aside. He noticed the outline of a door.
-
i wonder where that door leads' Asiha said, helping to clear some more bags
DR Landom examined the body ' Death was from blunt force trauma, either a blow to the head or from a fall from a considerable height.."
-
Alfred had finally cleared the bags of cement away.
"Dr. Landon, I bet the two construction workers found out he was a Dragonstorm scientist and beat him to death, probably with the piece of rebar and the lump of concrete sitting in the corner." Alfred said. He then picked up his ax and began hacking away at the door. The ax easily sheared through the thin metal.
-
(OOC: Why the lack of posts in this RP?)
-
(OOC - The bomb has to be found and disabled then Caustizer has to initiate the invasion.)
Alfred had finally through the door, it lead to a staircase descending down.
"Aisha! Dr. Landon! I've found another entrance to the Dragonstorm base!" He then radioed Dr. Bailey. "Dr. Bailey this is Alfred. Aisha, Dr. Landon and myself are preparing to enter what we think is the entrance to the Dragonstorm base. Over"
"You may find the bomb there as it has the best chance of evading detection. Enter it but use caution. Dr. Bailey out." Dr. Bailey replied via the radio.
Alfred took a deep breath and readied his shotgun. "Aisha, Dr. Landon, I'm going in." he said, walking down the darkened staircase.
-------------------
Werner, Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary and PFC Reynolds peeled into the nearly empty parking lot after 3 more hours, making the trip for them a total of 6 hours. They immediately leapt from their vehicles and ran into the control room.
"Dr. Bailey, we're here!" Dr. Zanasiu panted. "And why's the parking lot so empty?"
"Good. We're searching the base for the bomb." Dr. Bailey replied. He handed them all portable radios. He then winked. "As for why the parking lot's empty; Dr. Bradley radioed all the remaining ADSA members to evacuate everyone including the experiments."
Zachary scowled. "Why didn't you tell us that?! We could have caught Lab 101!"
"You were out of radio range. Besides, do know what the implications of a nuclear detonation, even fallout free, in the US? Do you guys WANT to cause a massive panic!?" Dr. Bailey scolded.
"Sorry. We'll break into teams of 2 to search." Zachary said.
"Sounds good." Hans said.
"Let's get moving! We've only got like 3 hours!" Dr. Zanasiu ordered.
The groups then headed out of the control room.
Dr. Bailey's radio crackled. "Bailey, this is Nixon, the pipe rooms are all clean as are the waste processing center and waste storage rooms. We are now checking the reactor silo."
"Come on. Pelvanida's fate is in your hands."
-
Whatevr happened to ridley?' Aisha asked they went down the stairs.. "The last I saw him he was keeping a helicopter busy.."
-
"I think the chopper may have blown up with him inside." Alfred said, sweeping the shotgun in front of himself. "Nevertheless, we owe our lives to him."
-
I'm sorry to hear that' Aisha said somberly.. "yet another reason why we should bring those Dragonstorm scum to justice! For Ridley, and the others who gave their lives in the effort to stop them..
-
(OOC: You should probably let Cautizer know we're waiting on him; I don't think he checks this RP regularly and his last post implied he was very busy in real life.)
-
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Hans and Werner, entered the cafeteria and began sweeping the entire kitchen and cafeteria.
---------------------------
Alfred noticed a door that said "fusion reactor".
"Wait, I thought Pelvanida's sole power source was an armored gigawatt class fusion reactor? Which I remember was destroyed." Alfred said.
He looked at the electronic lock on the door, which glowed a steady red color. "And this lock is active, which means... the Dragonstorm base is not affected by infrastructure attacks! We'll have to force our way in!"
-
"Isn't there a way to override the system?" Aisha asked, gazing at the lock. "There usually is a control panel nearby...that controls these types of systems..
-
"There should be. I'll go check it out." Alfred said. He then disappeared down the hallway.
-------------------------
Alfred entered the now deserted control room. He noticed that the consoles were still on but not locked down. He sat down at one and tapped the screen. Soon a status bar that read, "Reactor silo lock: open" flashed.
He got up and ran back to the group.
-------------------------
The door beeped and the light on the key card reader turned green.
"Aisha, manually slide the door open. There's a handhold on the side. It's in case the power or the motor fails." Alfred radioed.
Another minute later, and Alfred returned.
---------------------
Dr. Zanasiu's group men in the middle of the cafeteria, which was lit only by the tactical lights of their weapons.
"The cafeteria's empty." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"So's the kitchen." Zachary said.
"The Dragonstorm base." Hans added.
"That'll be our next target. We head there." Dr. Zanasiu ordered.
The group then entered the freezer, which was still cold despite the power being out for several hours. They then bolted down the staircase and entered the secret base.
"Where to now?" Hans asked.
"Find the power plant." Werner said.
-
The Americans had made it very clear that Pelvada was their installation, and that if it was to be taken it would be with their own troops. So it went that a column of 13 Abrahams Tanks tracked down the main entrance road, smashing their way through the gate and arming their cannons for active combat. Behind them a column of Bradley APCs emerged and disgorged squads of trained special forces. Their mission was to take back the research facility by force.
...
Colonel Rivende was dissapointed at the position his division had ended up in. The Americans had gone ahead without the Canadians, so for sure there was no way his 34th C4 Leopard Squadron would be there in time to get into any action.
The six tanks under his command - one of which he was now riding in - had admittedly got off a bit late due to some minor repair issues at Carson City base, and so was just making their way slowly along the side of the highway to Las Vegas, the City of Lights. The Colonel had been told to go around the city, but he had decided against it for the sake of speed. After all what American would object to having a column of tanks run through his nieghbourhood? They might get a chance to show some bystanders that Canada was still a country...
"Be advised all military and police forces in the Las Vegas area," blared out the radio in the military emergency frequency, "Vital property of the US Military has been stolen as is now enroute out of the city... request immeadiate intercept by all available units."
"Hell yeah, might actually get a chance to fire this old girl eh Colonel?" hooted the driver as he banged the side of the gun loader with his fist.
"Keep your hands on the wheel private, we ain't in this yet." responded the Colonel as he popped open the top hatch and drew out his binoculars.
"This is Adam Delta Charlie we have spotted a possible bogey coming right at us down the highway - she's a big one," same Lt. Carl from the first tank in the column. Rivende turned to check it out from the opening in the turret.
"Sweet roller, pull up your socks ladies cause this one's about to get ugly."
Sure enough the truck bearing Lab 101 was barreling down the road, directly in front of the column of tanks. Following proceedure, 3 of their number turned out and blocked both lanes on the road. There was a hydraulic wine as turrets unlocked and rotated into position.
It was party time.
-
Aisha managed to open the door now the security had been turned off. " Ok, its open, now lets search this area..Aisha said leaving the door open enough so they could squeeze through..
-
Alfred pulled the door open further and squeezed his way into reactor silo.
"I know that nuclear fusion requires magnets or lasers so the easiest way to disable them is to find the lasers or magnets and destroy them." Alfred said.
----------------------
The Ostrich sitting next to the Human driver was scanning the road ahead with binoculars.
"[censored]! We've got a blockade of tanks!" the Ostrich sitting next to the driver shouted.
The driver immediately drove off the road and tried to swerved around the tanks.
Dr. Branston woke up from the jerking. "What the hell is going on!?" he demanded.
"Sir, we've just swerved around some tanks; they're behind us!" the driver radioed.
"Gah! Someone fix the [censored] autocannon!" Dr. Branston shouted into the intercom.
Montgomery leapt out of his bunk and entered the autocannon machine room. There he found a piece that had fallen out of the autocannon hatch. He placed it back into its place, washed his hands and went back to sleep.
Dr. Branston then activated the autocannon.
A Parakeet armed with an RPG stood up from a hatch that opened on one of the SUVs and fired at the nearest tank. The backblast scorched some paint on another armored SUV but did nothing else.
---------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and his group eventually made their way to the bomb room.
"I think that's the bomb." Hans said, pointing to an enormous metal cylinder in the middle of the room.
"So how do we deactivate it?" Werner asked.
"Well, if it's a pure fusion bomb, we'll need to cut the power or wreck the capacitor bank as Dr. Kerzach said." Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Is this it?" Zachary asked, pointing to a large armored box.
"Might be. See if you can open it."
Zachary tried to lift the lid off but he found out it was welded in place. "It's welded shut."
"Shoot it and see what happens." Hans replied.
"Let's not shoot strange objects." Zachary replied.
"keep looking." Dr. Zanasiu ordered.
-
Easirer said then done. We can'rt exactly just shoot them, as that may have unintended consequences.." Aisha said, waving a flasahlight arounfd the room, there were signs of recebt activity in this room. Some one was here recently.." She said softly..
-
"Must have been the guys who evacuated." Alfred replied. He the spotted a control panel. "We can shut off the fusion reactor here."
Alfred then ran over to the console. "[censored]! They've locked it! And we need an authorized fingerprint to unlock it!"
-
Can't we hack it so it shows the last person who used it..?' Aisha asked.. We can then use their prints on file to open it.."
-
(OOC: Two things, (A) How many vehicles are there in Dragonstorm's convoy and (B) How expendable are they? Do you intend the Lab to escape or to be halted right here in the highway?)
To Rivende's surprise the truck in the lead barreled off into the dirt, blowing past Lt. Carl's tank with surprising speed. The suspension creaked and groaned under the strain, as unlike it's occupants the vehicle was not superhuman and was not designed for offroad.
The escort SUVs swerved to follow the same path, and one of them shot a rocket as it passed.
"Holy cow these guys got RPG's," commented the gunner in Carl's tank.
"Free fire, free fire... let em have it boys," blared Rivende. It was time to pull out the stops.
Lt. Marner's Tank, who was just behind Lt. Carl's rotated the turret at a nearby SUV and fired.
(EDIT: This is what the situation looks like on the road atm.
Lt. Carl's Tank is 'I'
Lt. Marner's Tank is 'II'
Colonel Rivende's Tank is 'III')
(http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/7923/tankzanddragons.jpg)
-
(OOC - There are 8 vehicles in the convoy, including the truck. All the escort SUVs except 1 can be destroyed. The truck and the single convoy vehicle are supposed to escape.)
Dr. Kerzach was jolted awake from the bumps as the truck drove over the desert.
"What the hell is going on?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"We're being chased by some tanks." a scientist replied.
--------------------
The SUV sped up significantly, flying ahead of the other escorts. The tank shell exploded in the desert pelting the vehicles with dirt and shrapnel.
The hatches on 4 of the SUVs opened and a soldier each fired an RPG at the tanks, then they closed the hatch to reload.
---------------------
"Do we have time to do that?" Alfred said. "Or we could try and manually cut off the hydrogen feed."
-
Shelton continued to sleep in the corner, one of only a few personnel able to do so.
-
"Hey commander we got smoke in the hold, repeat, smoke in the hold and it's getting thicker," blared Lt. Carl as his tank's right side outer armour was stripped by a barrage of RPG rockets.
"Like to give these bastards a taste of long tom," commented the gunner in Lt. Marner's tank, blocking up the radio with pointless banter. He was talking about the gun on his tank that was a few inches longer then everyone elses (due to an assembly oversight) .
"I see one, two, three, at least four bogies and they're all coming right at us Colonel," stated Lt. Dervus, whose tank was right next to Rivende's own.
"Take those bastards down!" commanded Lt. Rivende.
Carl's tank had halted and smoke was coming out of the hatches, the turret rotated slightly but didn't do anything telling.
"Sir we gotta get out we can't breathe in here," begged Lt. Carl.
Marner's gunner targeted an incoming SUV, and with a brilliant flash of light and a massive concussive blast 'long tom' annialated the vehicle with a single shot. A following SCV screetched to get around the carcus of the one in front and barreled into a ditch, cracking the front windshield.
The truck bearing Lab 101 rammed it into overdrive and rocked on the suspension as it got back onto the road and attempted to squeeze through the gap in Rivende's and Dervus' tanks. As it approached Rivende activated the machine gun on the hatch and poured ammo into the front windshield.
There was another explosion as an RPG fired, this time at Marner's tank. The gunner answered by firing another shot with 'long tom' cleaning out the SUV with a white hot penetrating shot. The front of the convoy was in chaos with blood and burning oil covering the street. The sounds of both light and heavy gunfire filled the air.
-
The truck driver simply ignored the machine gun fire as the heavily armored truck could stand up to repeated 23 mm autocannon fire.
3 more armored SUVs joined the remaining one. 3 of the 4 SUVs opened their hatches and a soldier bearing an RPG fired. All of them aimed at the nearest tank: Dervus's The 4th one revealed a gatling gun which stitched Rivende's tank.
The driver and gunner of the SUV in the ditch climbed out of the wrecked vehicle. The gunner fired an RPG at Marner's tank before climbing back into the ditch for cover.
----------------------
Dr. Branston cursed as gunfire erupted around the lab. He blasted a siren throughout the lab. "All personnel, prepare for battle stations!"
Several of the scientists got out from their bunks and headed to the armory near the bathrooms.
At the same time, the autocannon on the lab targeted one of the tanks and fired at it.
-
(http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/8720/tankzanddragons2.jpg)
(I - Lt. Carl's burning Tank
II - Lt. Marner's 'Long Tom' Tank
III - Colonel Rivende's Tank
IV - Lt. Dervus' Tank
V - Lt. Lain's Tank
VI - Lt. Unbel's Tank (with a broken gun))
(OOC: I have a good idea for the SUV that will escape, when I disable it don't touch it and let me handle the getting away of the Dragonstorm backup disks.)
"Sweet mother these guys just don't give up do they... it's like they're animals," Marner remarked over the radio, without realizing the irony in the statement.
The RPG from the ditch bounced off the front armour of Marner's Tank and reflected up into the gun burrel, ripping off the 'long tom' in a spectacular explosion of gunpowder and raw steel.
The gunner in the SUV with the gatling gun noticed Lt. Carl and his crew emerging and swiftly gunned them down through the haze of smoke. His screams reached Rivende through the comms, and so the colonel had to tune out the channel to cut it off.
"Those [censored]ing bastards, I'm gonna rip them a new [censored]hole!" cried Dervus over the radio and a moment later his gunner fired the cannon point blank at a passing SUV, the shell passing through the rear windows and screaming out the otherside to explode in the sand. The suction of the shell passing through the car caused the driver to lose control, and the SUV rolled over half a dozen times in a shower of glass.
Rivende ducked back into the hole cursing and swearing as the truck bearing Lab 101 screamed by unscathed his machinegun fire. The tank shook villianously as his own gunner opened fire, erasing another SUV from existance at point blank.
One of the remaining two SUVs swerved and smashed directly into the front of Dervus' Tank, throwing off his gunner's aim momentarily causing the cannon shot to miss.
"Lain, Unbel take down that truck!" screamed Rivende into the radio. Unsurprisingly only Lt. Lain responded.
"Yes sir commencing engagement,"
Lain's tank was not equiped with a standard 90mm cannon but with a smaller 40mm autocannon. His gunner opened fire on the truck as the roof gun fired back, rocking the tank from side to side with the impact. The cannon shells did absolutely nothing, and the truck moved right on past him.
Unbel's tank had a broken gun, so there was no way he could help. The rookie tank commander watched helplessly as Lab 101 drove right by.
Seeing he was cornered, the SUV with the Gatling Gun came to a stop on the dirty ground, and flashed his lights in submission.
"Sir, I think that one's giving up." stated the gunner in Rivende's Tank.
"All units hold your fire, this one's over." Rivende stated over the radio.
(OOC: At this point there are the Dragonstorm in the ditch, the surrendered vehicle, and the vehicle that smashed into Dervus' Tank still alive. Rivende's crews will now attempt to take prisoners - please don't touch the surrendered SUV I have an interesting scene planned for the Dragonstorm Backup Disks)
-
(OOC: Sorry that Corporal Stern hasn't been active much lately; real-life concerns have been cutting into my time here...)
-
The SUV that rammed Dervus's tank quickly reversed as the hatch opened and a Pigeon fired his RPG at the tank.
The engine on the SUV then died forcing the driver and gunner to bail. They jumped into a nearby ditch. There, the gunner of the other wrecked SUV fired his last rocket at Col. Rivende's tank.
"Got any more rockets?" the Cheetah driver shouted over the weapons fire.
The gunner, a wiry Human, gestured towards the wrecked SUV.
"This is [censored] insane!" the Cheetah said, opening the SUV's door and scrambling in to retrieve the last case of rockets.
--------------------
Dr. Branston continued ordering the roof autocannon to fire at the tanks as the truck drove off.
"Damage assessment." Dr. Branston ordered.
"Well, it looks like the enemy's cannon ripped some holes in the top part of the lab but the only damage it did was tear through some wires that power the lights. Basically, no lights in the kitchen or the bathrooms." the technician replied.
---------------------
One of the scientists grabbed Dr. Shelton and shook him. "Damn it Storke! Are you [censored] deaf!? Dr. Branston's going to rip you a new [censored]hole if he finds out that you've been ignoring his order!"
---------------------
Dr. Kerzach went to the bathroom, which now had no lights, and splashed cold water on his face to wake himself up.
"At least we'll be rescued. Oh [censored]! No we won't?!" Dr. Kerzach muttered to himself as he was washing his face.
"[censored]!" Dr. Kerzach shouted, accidentally bumping his shin on the toilet on his way out.
----------------------------
The armed scientists, mostly carrying small arms rushed to every room, including the kitchen. It
A Bull scientist, carrying an anti tank missile system headed to the back of the lab where there was an armored shutter covering what seemed to be a window.
----------------------------
"All personnel are at battle stations." the technician replied.
"Good." Dr. Branston said. He then triggered the PA system. "Gunports will now be unlocked, fire at will."
----------------------------
The Bull slammed a red button beneath him and the shutter slid back, revealing the tanks chasing the lab. The Rhino locked onto one of the tanks, fired and closed the shutter to reload
Luckily for him and the personnel behind him, the rocket system he had was Pelvanida's FGM-172 PICADOR anti-tank rocket and the only thing ejected from the rear of the launcher was a mass of shredded plastic.
The scientist unhooked the spent launch tube, threw it aside and snapped on a fresh launch tube.
Two more scientists, a large man and an Elephant, took positions behind two other armored shutters. They were armed with the same weapon as the Bull.
(OOC - The scientist's weapon is a fictional hybrid of the MATADOR anti armor rocket (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MATADOR_%28weapon%29) and the FGM-148 Javelin anti tank missile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FGM-148_Javelin). It uses the MATADOR's countermass system to have no backblast and uses the Javelin's reusable command launch unit. Each rocket and its countermass system are self contained disposable units.)
-
Shelton was thoroughly disoriented. "I thought we'd got away?" he muttered thickly.
"It sound like it?" the scientist dragged Shelton to the elephant's launch shutter. "Now get to it!"
Shelton had no idea what he was supposed to do. He watched the other guy, who seemed to be setting up fresh launch tubes for the bull and throwing the spent ones out of the lab. Shelton quickly started imitating him for the elephant.
-
"Aisha, hacking the system would take too long. If we can find the manual cutoff switch for the hydrogen feed, we can instantly stop the reactor." Alfred replied.
-
Alright.. Aisha said.. "But my courses didn';t cover shutting off reactors unfortunateky, so we're going to have to go on blind faith here.. the manual cutoff switch should be.. ahh" She noticed a large swiitch behinmnd a glass panel. The wording above the panel read " manual reactor shutdown. in case of emergency.. break glass.." "I think this is it" Aisha said, excitement creping into her voice..
-
Alfred slammed his elbow into the glass as hard as possible. The glass was a safety glass so he was not cut. He then pulled the lever back and noticed that a wall mounted meter showing the amount of power coming from the reactor soon decreased into the red zone then died.
"Power's out. Now that bomb can't detonate." Alfred said. He then radioed Dr. Bailey. "Dr. Bailey, this is Alfred, the power has been cut. Over."
"Alfred this is Bailey return topside and... Hey, nice to see reinforcements but you're too late they... Hey, I'm Pelvanida's control room admin! What the [censored] are you doing?! Alfred, Aisha, Zanasiu..." The transmission then degenerated into unintelligible shouting then cut off with a burst of static.
"Oh [censored]! Bailey's just been assaulted by someone. We've got to move!"
------------------
Dr. Branston decided to see if he could contact a small battery powered beacon at Pelvanida. To his horror he was able to. With a sense of growing horror, he checked the bomb's telemetry data, which was non existent.
"[censored]! The bomb malfunctioned!" Dr. Branston shouted.
"Well, it's too late. We're already out almost at the Nevada border." the technician said.
(OOC - The misguided invasion has started with the special forces troopers subduing Dr. Bailey.)
-
" Ok, we neeed to get out of here' Aisha replied. DR landon nodded.. "I think that night be the Army.. just a guess but I don't think they liked that little Vegas spectacle.. so they're clsamping down on us.."
_
You don't think.. They blame US for it?' Aisha asked they began to climb the stairs. "I'm afraid so.."Landon replied..
-
The bomb malfunctioned! thought Shelton excitedly. Leave it to James!
I should find Kerzach and let him know.
Shelton turned to head back for the main room when one of the dispelled plastic balls shot into his head. He slid into a wall, unconscious.
"Dammit!" swore the elephant. "Get another loader in here!"
(OOC:When I said I'm taking a break from RP'ing, I mean it!)
-
(are you refering to me or Serris LBT?
-
(I'm referring to me. Or if you mean who I was talking to, kinda everyone. Noone in particular.)
-
(RPIng is addicting LOL Taking a break is easier said than done..)
-
(OOC -Yeah, RPing is quite addictive.)
"I would rather the LVMPD got involved." Alfred replied, dashing up the stairs.
They soon met with Nixon, Dr. Greene, Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Hans, Werner and PFC Reynolds in a large hallway leading to the control room.
"I'm guessing you heard." Hans said.
"No [censored]!" Alfred replied.
"No time to talk; we need to move!" Dr. Zanasiu said, breaking into a run.
The rest of the group ran after him.
They hid behind some debris and spied on the control room. There Dr. Bailey was surrounded by 5 black clad and armored special forces troopers. From their armor, it appeared that most of them were canine but at least one was a Human.
-------------------------
"Unhand me!" Dr. Bailey shouted. He was handcuffed to a chair and the armored Human and an armored canine pointed their weapons, H&K G11 rifles, at him.
"We have been ordered to take back control of Pelvanida." the squad leader, an armored canine said. His helmet and armor made it impossible to determine what kind of canine he was.
"By who!?" Dr. Bailey demanded.
"That is classified." the squad leader replied.
-------------------------
Zachary's sensitive hearing let him hear snatches of the conversation.
"Guys," Zachary whispered, "they're US special forces troopers."
"I vote we negotiate." Dr. Zanasiu whispered.
-
Oh Crap.. we're in SERIOUS trouble if they sent in special forces.." Aisha whispered. "If we try and fight , they'll blow up the base with bunker busters! And Negotiating sounds like a plan.. but will they believe us?
_ They seem to think we're responsible for all that has happened
Dr Landon said..
-
Dr. Zanasiu handed his shotgun to Zachary.
"Zach, stay out of sight. Hans, Aisha, Alfred and myself will attempt to negotiate." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Alfred and Hans handed their weapons over to Zachary.
Dr. Zanasiu then approached the troopers.
Two of the troopers immediately aimed their weapons at him.
"I am not armed." Dr. Zanasiu said, displaying his hands.
"Who are you?" the Human trooper demanded, keeping his rifle level with Dr. Zanasiu's face.
"I am Dr. James Zanasiu, a biologist for Pelvanida." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"Really? Rather unseemly for a biologist to level most of the Vegas downtown area and kill a number of civilians." the trooper replied.
"I can explain that. We were sent back to Pelvanida by General Jake Moby of Carson City Camp under orders to find and destroy a series of illegal experiments known as 'Dragonstorm'. Unfortunately, before we were able to destroy Dragonstorm, the main lab for the project broke off of Pelvanida and fled. We were then forced to chase the lab through Vegas. We tried to avoid collateral damage but we had to fight off their armed escorts as well. Unfortunately, we were forced to turn back because an inside source in the mobile lab alerted us to a bomb at Pelvanida. We managed to disarm the bomb so there is no danger." Dr. Zanasiu explained.
The leader, who had been listening in, nodded his head. "He's lyin', take 'em in!"
Two troopers immediately threw Dr. Zanasiu to the ground and tried to handcuff him.
"Damn it! I'm telling the truth! Go ask anyone behind me!" Dr. Zanasiu grunted.
-
Dr Landon spoke up " Hi is telling the truth gentlemen.. we have been trying to stop Dragonstorm, but woth only some sucess..they have been doing experiments on children that they have kidnapped from the surrounding area among other things..
-
One of the passengers of the crashed SUV dove back inside to search for more rockets, which proved to be a bad move. Dervus' tank was still advancing forward, and crushed the wrecked SUV under it's treads with a squeel of bending metal.
...
There was a horrible scream over the intercom as Unbel's tank exploded in a thick crimson fireball. The tank had been struck by AT from the rear, and it had filled the inside with white hot lead. There was no way anyone was getting out of there alive.
Though Unbel's tank was nothing more then carred rubble, his sacrifice was not in vain for Lt. Lain's tank had wheeled around and was commencing full pursuit. As quick as the Leopard was, the truck was faster and was getting away.
"Did you see that [censored] they torched UB's ride into dust, where the hell did they get AT?" spoke up Lain's driver. The gunner turned his quad autocannon turret towards the back of Lab 101.
"Hold it gunner, those hatches are at least 50 proof. Wait for it..." Lt. Lain commanded.
The truck was getting farther away, despite the throttle being to the max. The gunner was getting ichy.
"Wait it Max, if you let one off they ain't going to open the hatches!"
Just as the truck was almost out of range, one of the three rear hatches popped open to reveal another terrorist with a missile. Strangely, from what he was wearing it looked like he had the face of an elephant.
"Fire god dammit," yelled Lain.
A barrage of explosive shells burst of out of the autocannon, and the gunner's aim was true. Although many shots simply exploded on the armour plating three of them entered through the exposed hatch, detonating instantly upon hitting the scientist's flesh. The explosive percussions blew him apart, and scattered white-hot shards of shrapnel all through the gun bay in the rear of the van. The other two shooters were instantly killed, and the entire gun bay was shredded up inside.
The gunner kept shooting, even as the truck ducked out of range, until the clip was dry. The driver let up on the throttle a bit, and looked like he was going to be sick. He had ever been in live combat before, and watching living humans be torn apart by ammo was disgusting.
...
Colonel Rivende turned on the outside speakerphone, and addressed the survivors, even as another rocket bounced off the hull of the tank and sent it rocking from side to side.
"Attention suspected terrorists, you are outnumbered and outgunned. Put your weapons down and your hands above your head!"
...
In the single stopped SUV, the four passengers (two humans, a wolf man, and a deer) all laughed in amusement. They were waiting until their "captors" approached to make their move. The deer reached into the back and withdrew a combat shotgun, and started clicking in the shells.
-
"What the hell was that?" Dr. Zenarchis yelled. Everyone in the main compartment had ducked and covered when the fireworks shot in.
Some assistants charged into the gunner bay. They dragged Shelton out. "Autocannon fire. Only survivor was the guy already on the ground."
"Who is it?"
The assistants checked. "Can't tell. Face and clothes are cut up pretty bad."
"Is he badly injured?"
"Nothing that won't heal, but he is unconscious."
"Get him with the others," the Black man ordered. "It doesn't matter. The enemy isn't giving pursuit. Idiots are going for the SUV with the backup files; they won't know what hit them."
-
As soon as the truck got out of range, Dr. Branston spoke into the intercom.
"Damage assessment!" he ordered.
"Well, the rear gunnery station is completely ruined, except for the hatches, which are now closed. We have three dead and three ruined PICADOR missile launchers. The autocannon is empty." a Falcon technician said.
Dr. Branston spoke into the intercom. "Reload the autocannon."
-----------------------
O'Neill grabbed Dr. Kerzach, who was sitting in the kitchen amid a pile of spent brass. "Gallo! Reload the autocannon!"
"Why bother? The tanks are out of range." Dr. Kerzach asked.
"Do as I say!" O'Neill demanded.
Dr. Kerzach then got up and headed to the bathrooms, there an Ocelot was waiting. "Where's the ammunition canister!?" he demanded.
"Don't you have it!?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
"You [censored] idiot! Go get it from the hall closet!"
Dr. Kerzach entered the hall closet. The sound of weapons fire tore through the air. He found a hand truck and used it to load a large canister of 20 mm ammunition. He the wheeled the canister back to the Ocelot, who opened one of the armored shutters and tossed the empty canister out. He then fed the belt into the cannon and reactivated it.
He, along with Dr. Kerzach left the room.
"Are the experiments okay?" Dr. Kerzach asked.
The Black man nodded. "They are indeed, the experiments are at the front of the trailer along with the crew rooms and the vitals of the lab itself. The rear holds the autocannons, kitchen, bathrooms and some closets.
-----------------------
As soon as the control panel's red light on the single remaining autocannon turned off, Dr. Branston activated it.
"Sir, the hostiles are out of sight and we do not believe they can hit us." the Falcon said.
Dr. Branston thought a moment and retracted the autocannon. "We don't want to attract unwanted attention with it."
-----------------------
The Pigeon flipped the middle finger at one of the tanks as he loaded his last rocket and fired. "I'm out of rockets!" he shouted.
"Hide and keep your sidearm ready." the Parakeet whispered.
They then ducked down into the ditch and waited with their pistols out.
-
(OOC: Lain's tank is a mile behind the Dragonstorm Lab truck (due to the truck being much faster then a heavy tank) and he has stopped pursuing. The Lab has escaped... so theres no way they can still be firing missiles and autocannons at each other still (sorry if I didn't make this clear enough))
"I repeat, lay down your weapons and come quietly. We have you outnumbered and outgunned!" Rivende blared through the outside horn.
Dervus backed up his tank, driving over the crushed husk of the SUV again.
Marner was following orders and had ceased fire, but was already considering blowing the two bogeys in the ditch to dust for taking out the tank on his flank.
"This is your last warning!"
"I don't thing their coming quietly sir... that one down there just flipped me the bird." called up the driver of Rivende's tank.
Ironically the guy who flipped him the bird had the head of a pigeon.
...
-
(OOC - There is a discussion (http://www.gangoffive.net/index.php?topic=4956&view=findpost&p=9147377) about what will initiate the firefight. I am leaning towards using both ideas mentioned but I need to know if everyone is okay with that plan. I am indeed going through with the firefight.)
"Please listen to him. " Alfred said. "Dr. Zanasiu and Dr. Bailey are innocent of any wrongdoing. In fact, this entire group here has been attempting to stop Dragonstorm, a series of illegal and unethical experiments."
"How do we know that you didn't pull this out of your ass just to escape?" a trooper demanded.
"We are not making this up. Please understand, we came back here to disarm a bomb that we have discovered." Hans said
"A bomb you say?"
The squad leader radioed for reinforcements.
-
i am the daughter of Admiral Tennes, if you need confirmation of our intention you can ask him' Aisha said.. 'if you guys detain us and dragonstorm wreaks havoc on the country, you folks will feel some major heat for not stopping them..
-
(OOC - Caustizer prefers to leave the Canadian Tanks out of the invasion.)
Hicks, who had broken out of the closet he was locked in, watched the scene in the control room from a distance. He grinned and ducked into a bathroom to radio Dr. Branston.
"Dr. Branston, this is Hicks, US special forces are here. Over"
"Hicks, go to bathroom and wash your hands. Out"
Hicks put the radio away went to the handicapped stall, stood on the toilet and pushed a ceiling tile where he retrieved a small metal capsule.
He opened the capsule and read the piece of paper in it.
Operation Pyrite
He replaced the card and the capsule and left the bathroom and made his way to the control room.
He then approached the troopers, who aimed their weapons at him.
"Gentleman," Hicks said, "I am not armed nor do I have a quarrel with you. Have these 'guests' mentioned something about a bomb?"
"They have." the squad leader replied.
"Well, they were the ones to plant the bomb, which is a pure fusion bomb. They smuggled it into Pelvanida during construction and they activated it. Luckily, Dr. Jurgen Gruen, PFC Jason Dover and myself were able to disarm it. Sadly, Dr. Gruen and PFC Dover were killed by their guards." Hicks said.
"Hmm. Why should we trust you?" the squad leader asked, glaring at Hicks.
Suddenly, the squad leader's radio went off.
"H...hello? Who's there." the voice on the radio said.
"This is Sgt. Gary Noleson. Identify yourself!" Sgt. Noleson said into the radio.
"This is Dr. Christopher O'Donnell. I am calling from Carson City Camp and General Moby has authorized use of this channel. I am alerting you to the fact that a Dr. James Zanasiu has seized control of the base with a group of his fellow scientists. They have killed all the guards and they have taken the whole facility. I am one of the lucky ones to escape. O'Donnell out."
At this point, another squad walked into the control room.
"Orders?" the Human trooper asked.
"Take 'em down." Sgt. Noleson said, raising his rifle and firing a warning shot at Dr. Landon's feet. "Come quietly or we will use lethal force."
Zachary looked at the scene in horror. "[censored]! They're actually buying that crap?" he whispered.
-
"Then I supose theres no use negotiating with youm if you;'re going to believe a load of bs like this man has just fed you" Aisha said. "i thought special forces were smarter than that.. apparently i was mistaken.. As for You" She Turned toward Hicks and fired one shot, it struck Hicks just below the left knee with devastating impact. "thats for being a llying, backstabbing weasel!" Before she could fire again, Dr Landon Dragged her behind cover.
-
The special forces troopers stood shocked for a moment and immediately opened fire on the group. Bullets pinged around Alfred, Aisha and Dr. Landon.
Alfred was grazed by a bullet as he dove for cover.
"Hey what about me and Dr. Bailey?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"You're coming with us!" a canine trooper said, shooting at Hans, who was behind cover.
Dr. Bailey glared at Sgt. Noleson. "You are [censored] idiots! Cease firing as that was a completely false transmission!"
Sgt. Noleson looked at Dr. Bailey. "Explain why the frequency is from Carson City Camp?"
"What? But they would never...Maybe someone faked it."
"That is an encrypted military frequency, faking it is very difficult."
"Carson City Camp? They sent us here!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted.
-------------------
"[censored]! They're shooting now!" Zachary whispered.
He grabbed his rifle and took cover in a lab with Dr. Greene and Nixon.
"Are those special forces troopers?" Nixon asked.
Dr. Greene nodded. "Unfortunately, thanks to either a terrible mix up or faked radio transmission, they see Dr. Zanasiu and his group as hostiles. And from what I saw negotiations went to hell so we are left with no choice but..."
Nixon gulped. "Are you saying we must kill them?"
Dr. Greene nodded.
-
"Try and call your dad" Dr Landon said to Aisha "Have him talk to them.. Aisha whipped out her phone and began dialing..
-
PFC Reynolds was hiding in the closet of one of the labs.
Alfred quickly darted to a nearby lab as bullets began chipping away at the rubble he was using for cover.
Hans darted from one lab to another in an attempt to avoid getting shot.
Zachary dove into a nearby lab, then routed around to another one and fired, striking one of the troopers square in the head. He slid Alfred and Hans's weapons to them.
Dr. Greene and Nixon were moving around constantly, appearing from one lab to fire a shot, then moving to another lab.
-
Aisha hung up her phone.. upon reflection. "I don't think calling him will do much good at this point..its too late for negotiation, especially with these simpletons.."
-
"Have you considered that Dragonstorm may be working with these guys?" Dr. Zanasiu shouted. I wouldn't put it above them to bribe an entire military base."
"Shut up!" the squad leader shouted.
"[censored] you!" Alfred spat, firing a single shot that killed a trooper then darting to another lab.
-
" You guys are maaking a huge mistake! When this is over, you boys are going to be reamed by Congress for your stupidity! If you survive, that is!' Aisha shot back. "and theres no guarantee of that..either.."
-
"Sgt. Noleson, no one is going to believe that Pelvanida went rogue. Instead, they'll think an entire armored division and several squads of special forces troopers went completely berserk and trashed Pelvanida." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"That's what you think! Dr. Johnson Zenarchis has prepared a press release to deal with that." Sgt. Noleson said.
"Dr. Who?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"Dr. Zenarchis was one of the ringleaders of Dragonstorm. He was murdered several months ago. He couldn't have prepared a press release."
(OOC - Yes, the special forces are Dragonstorm personnel. They tricked an entire base into joining them. This will be factored into the sequel.)
-
( Interesting the plot thickens)
Better stop insulting them Aisha. thats not helping our course " Dr Landon said, ducking more gunfire as the special forces continued firing at them..
-
"You must have killed him!" Sgt. Noleson said. He fired at Hans, who had killed another trooper.
Alfred reloaded, darted to another lab via the shared storerooms and shot another trooper. He then darted to another lab to fire off a shot, this one missed.
Zachary slid Dr. Landon and Aisha their weapons as he popped out of a lab to shoot a trooper trying to throw a grenade in one of the labs. He the darted to another lab, again via the shared storerooms.
-
Aisha struck a trooper trying to throw a grenade..
-
Alfred, Werner, Hans, Zachary Dr. Greene and Nixon killed the rest of the troopers after many minutes of firing and darting from lab to lab.
Sgt. Noleson tried to radio for reinforcements but Alfred walked up to him with his shotgun pointed directly at his head. Even though Sgt. Noleson was large by Human standards, Alfred towered over him.
Alfred then plucked the radio from his hands and hurled it at the wall. "Sgt. Noleson, may I ask why you are working with Dragonstorm?" he asked in calm but deadly voice.
Zachary fetched a pair of bolt cutters and used them to free Dr. Zanasiu and Dr. Bailey.
"This is [censored] crazy! Dragonstorm bribed an entire [censored] base?!" Dr. Bailey yelled.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "Hey, look at what happened here. They seized control of Pelvanida. If they can do that, what's to prevent them from seizing other bases?"
Dr. Greene decided to check on Hicks. "Guys, Hicks is dead."
"We'll need to head to Carson City Camp to stop this madness. General Moby needs to know that someone in Dragonstorm is hijacking the Carson City Camp radio." Zachary said.
-
"Was it the pay? " Aisha hissed. 'Because last I checked, what you did was treason. You'll be headed for a firing squad after the court martial. the army doesn't like traitors.' She aimed her gun at Sgt. Noleson's head..
-
Reynolds stepped forward and stared Noleson straight in the eyes. "Of all the people in this room, you and I are the most alike. When I look at you, I see what I could have become if I had stayed in the corps long enough to become a seargent. As the only two surviving Dragonstorm captees, I'll be standing next to you in court, but I'll never stand with you."
(OOC: wow, I do suck at giving this RPing up. Again, last post, I swear.)
-
(Don't fight it LBT . embrace it :)
' Reynolds here will be spared because of his cooperation. " Dr Landon said.' you on the other hand, theres not much hope for..
-
(OOC - LB&T, I assume that you will be participating in the 3rd installment along with the planning for it?)
"You are making a mistake. Dragonstorm is the next military breakthrough. No longer would we have to rely on volunteers or on a draft. We can cut training costs. We no longer have to worry about veterans returning home from wars with PTSD, lost limbs and other illnesses and injuries."
Alfred, scowling, picked up Sgt. Noleson with one hand and lifted him off his feet. "You sack of [censored]! You want to replace our brave men and women in uniform with these...monstrosities!" he hissed.
He then dropped him back to the ground.
Sgt. Noleson then turned to Dr. Zanasiu. "Do you really think you can get past the tanks that are present?"
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "I do." He then turned to the group. "I'm going to try running the gauntlet and getting to Carson City Camp to stop this madness. As for the rest of you, head to the AWTR and the garages in the back. You will need the weapons there to stand a chance."
Alfred then tied Sgt. Noleson up with some loose wires and gagged him with a piece of his own uniform. He then placed him in closet, which he then barricaded with a mass of rubble.
Dr. Zanasiu picked up a some car keys off a dead technician. "Wish me luck." he said, walking towards the parking lot.
-
" good Luck" Aisha called as she and Dr Landon started heading towards the garage. "Which would be beter. Gun ammo or missiles?' She asked as they continued moving..
(congrarts on 4000 Serris!)
-
Dr. Zanasiu leapt into the car the key belonged to. It was red Chevy Corvette. He started the engine and drove out. To his horror, several tanks were busy patrolling the parking lots and empty spaces. Since it was broad daylight, he simply had to rely on sheer speed and maneuverability to evade the tanks.
He spotted his chance and floored the accelerator. The Corvette almost flew out of the parking lot but the tanks noticed and started firing their coaxial machine guns at him. Dr. Zanasiu was forced to weave in between the bursts of machine gun fire. Several of the bullets pierced the back windows and the trunk but he was unharmed. He soon sped out of range.
----------------------
Zachary and his group entered the AWTR.
"Okay, everyone, grab a weapon and power cells." Zachary said. As he spoke he grabbed a laser rifle and shoved several power cells in his pockets.
Alfred grabbed a gauss rifle that bore a striking resemblance to his shotgun, save for the detachable box magazine and a butt loaded power cell. He also grabbed several of the cylindrical power cells and loaded several magazines with the gauss darts.
-
aishsa grabbed an gauss and filled her pockets with bullets. dr landon chose a laser rifle with telescope..
-
(OOC: Yeah, I'll be in the third RP and will help plan for it, but, like I said, since Lab 101 needs to be discovered before Shelton will actually appear, it may be some time before I'll be posting in the RP. Which I actually like, gives me time to get my study deficit lowered.)
-
(OOC - Those weapons are not likely to be found in the AWTR. The Advanced Weapons Testing Range is more likely to hold things like laser rifles, gauss weapons and other stuff like that.)
Werner grabbed another laser rifle and shoved some power cells in his pocket.
Hans grabbed a .30 caliber gauss rifle with a scope. He too began loading the gauss darts into the magazine. The gauss darts he was using were larger than the ones that Alfred's weapon used but both of them had fins for stability.
-
(fixed it- wasn't sure what AWTR stood for..)
_
You folks ready?' Dr Landon asked, fiddling with his weapon..
-
Zachary got into a Humvee. Hans manned the remote controlled laser turret on it.
Alfred got into a Humvee with Dr. Greene who was busy loading railgun slugs into it.
"Do you know how to use this railgun?" Alfred asked.
Dr. Greene nodded. "I developed the weapon. I better know how."
Nixon leapt into another Humvee, PFC Reynolds manned the electrically remote laser system.
"We're ready! Get into a vehicle!" Alfred said. The Humvee's speaker system made sure everyone in the AWTR heard it.
Werner was trying to start the generator to open the doors. He then spotted some special forces troopers running in at the farthest point of the AWTR. "Guys! They're coming!" he said.
-
Dr Landon and Aisha buckled themselved into the middle seat of the humvee " Put your foot doan and lets get out of here.." Aisha said clutching her weapon tightly in her hands..
-
(OOC - which Humvee did they take?)
Werner got the generator started and the doors slowly slid open. He then leapt into Zachary's Humvee.
"Shouldn't we just simply haul ass to Carson City Camp and let them take the base?" PFC Reynolds asked.
"No! We've driven Dragonstorm out of Pelvanida, we do not want them taking it back!" Nixon replied.
The radio in the Humvees broadcast their argument to all of them.
The special forces troopers then began firing.
"Go, go, go!" Zachary shouted, heading out of the garage. Hans leaned out the window and killed the three troopers shooting at them. His laser rifle easily burned through their heavy armor.
-
We'll say the Humvee Alfred Aisha and Dr Landon are in is blue and the one Nixon is in is black, and the other one is red)
-
"So what do we do? Try and wipe out the invaders now, haul ass to Carson City Camp, get reinforcements then wipe out the invaders. Or do we just let the invaders have Pelvanida?" Alfred asked, driving the Humvee out of the garage.
-
We try and protect Pelvanida of course.. but we do need reinforments" Dr Landon said...; we get them then head back here and clear it of special forces then we go after Dragonstorm..
-
Alfred stepped on the gas and the Humvees darted from the garage.
Two tanks tried to stop them but Dr. Greene's quick aim with the railgun disabled one of them and Hans's powerful laser cannon burned through the armor of the other one and set it on fire.
The convoy then headed through the broken fence left by the tanks and off into the distance. At this point, two more Humvees darted from the garage and gave chase.
-
(OOC: I will post the next bit tommarow when I am done class)
-
(OOC: I'm back!)
Corporal Stern looked out of the back of the vehicle he was in and saw more humvees pursuing him.
"Great! Just great!" he thought to himself. "We've got more enemies approaching, and I STILL don't have any ammo!"
-
"There should be a shotgun and some ammo in the back." Zachary said.
Hans waited for the turret to recharge and he fired. The bouncing of the vehicle caused the beam to miss. He then heard the sound of machine gun fire pinging off his vehicle.
----------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu stopped at a gas station to get fuel and breakfast.
He noticed someone eying his dirty lab coat. He paid for the goods and drove off.
-
Meanwhile, the helicopter team landed back in Utah, where medical teams and escorts stood by. Feral never survived the trip, even with Vic's expertise. Two soldiers with a stretcher came to take the commander's body from the Black Hawk, and handed Vic a towel for his blood-soaked hands as he and Aiko got off the chopper.
The passengers from the other Black Hawk knew immediately what had happened, with Snow's telepathic powers. Everyone joined in the base to be treated for injuries...and for the Dragonstorm data to be analyzed...
-
Aisha hopped into the Humvee carrying hot sausage busuits for herself Dr Landon, Alfred along with soft pretzels and hot coffee. "Hope you guys like decaf they were out of regular' She said the group had stopped at a gas station to refill the tank, and Aisha had used the bathroom, and gotten some breakfast for them.
-
Alfred walked out of the gas station with a large mug of decaf coffee and a heavy whole wheat bagel. "Man, it seems everyone's talking about that Vegas escapade. Even when I using the bathroom they were still talking about it." he said.
Dr. Greene followed Alfred. Dr. Greene was carrying a bag of pita bread and some hummus. He had also used the bathroom and washed his face.
-------------------------
Outside, Zachary and Nixon were refueling their vehicles at the same time.
Hans returned with two bagel with cream cheese and two mugs of hot green tea. He handed one bagel to Werner and proceeded to eat the other one.
Zachary returned with a bowl of hot minstrone soup for himself and bagels with cream cheese for for Corporal Stern and Sgt. Clyco. He was also carrying a tray of hot tea.
-
Dr landon took a sausage Biscuit from Aisha, he had bought a large bag of sour cream and onion chips, a number of hot dogs and a local paper. the paper's headline read "Terror in Vegas- Sin City under Attack." A picture showed the burning wreckage of a tank. "well, folks . this has likely gone global,.."
-
"This is my kind of place," thought Clyco as he treked along the Pelvada Advanced Weapons testing range firing line. There were so many unique and bizzare weapons here it was like he had landed in the soliders toy box!
The Prism Cannon was fun when it annialated all the targets in a single bolt, but the 10 minute reload time seriously hampered the fun he could have with it.
Bored, Clyco set it down and picked up a Spaz Shotgun off the wall. He had always wanted one of these - a rapid fire shotgun.
He was sure the personel wouldn't mind him giving it a shot, seeing as most of them were obsessing themsevles over the whole Dragonstorm thing.
-
Alfred shook his head as he took a bite out of the bagel. "Great. Now we can't ever stop Dragonstorm."
Dr. Greene shook his head. "We have come this far. We will not let something like this stop us."
-------------------
"Hey, Sgt. Clyco. I've got the breakfast...." Zachary said. No response. "Clyco? Where are you?" His face then paled at what he realized.
He activated the radio. "Guys, we left Sgt. Clyco at Pelvanida!"
-------------------
Alfred nearly choked on the bagel as he heard Zachary speak. "We WHAT?!" he shouted. "You have got to be [censored] kidding me!"
"We can't go back for him." Dr. Greene said.
"We must." Alfred countered.
"Listen, we lost the 2 Humvees chasing us. We don't want to run the risk of running into them and the tanks at the base and incurring the wrath of the squads of special forces troopers without support."
-------------------
Nixon and PFC Reynolds were eating some minstrone soup.
-------------------
A squad of special forces troopers entered the AWTR and spotted Sgt. Clyco. They did not open fire but they cautiously approached him.
"Sir, please identify yourself." one of the troopers said, lowering his weapon. The others did not lower their weapons but kept them ready.
-
Clyco was busy clearing out a jam in the side chamber of the automatic shotgun when the special forces approached him.
"Sir, please identify yourself," asserted one of the mysterious group.
How they were dressed implied that they weren't Pelvada guards but in fact part of an outside force. He had best keep it cool, just in case these guys were 'Dragonstorm' like the others he had fought earlier. As soon as he turned in their direction they aimed a bunch of high class firearms at him... this was going to be tricky.
"Fredrick Clyco, Srgt. First class in the Canadian Military," mumbled Clyco, as he still had the hammer for the shotgun trigger in his mouth from what he was doing when they arrived, annoyed the Srgt. pulled it from his lips,
"I was sent here to drop off a highly classifed experiemental weapon, but got caught up in whatever is going on here. I don't suppose you guys are here to take me back home?"
-
"We were called to this base thanks to a hostage who escaped Dr. Zanasiu's men. As you are probably aware of, Dr. Zanasiu and a group of his fellow scientists seized control of Pelvanida. Unfortunately, Sgt. Clyco I cannot allow you to leave until we rescue the other hostages and kill Dr. Zanasiu and his men."
--------------------------------
"Aisha! Sgt. Clyco got left behind at Pelvanida." Alfred said. "Should we turn around and help him or continue?"
-
"Thanks, Zack. I got the ammo now. Did... we leave someone behind?" Corporal Stern asked Zackery.
-
"Alright" responded Clyco,
"Don't think my government is going to be too happy about this, but hey good foriegn relations aren't your number one priority are they? So, are you planning on leaving me down here then?"
-
Zachary nodded. "Sgt. Clyco was behind, perhaps we overlooked him in the rush to leave. Luckily, there is a chance that "
-------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu entered another gas station to refuel. He normally obeyed the speed limits but this time he felt that the faster he got to Carson City, the better. In addition, the roads were as usual, nearly deserted.
He was pumping fuel into his car when he saw a group of people pointing and whispering at his Corvette and him. He paid them no heed until one of them, a wiry Dhole went up to him.
"So what happened to your car?" he asked.
"Nothing." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"Nothing? It looks like someone used it for target practice." the Dhole replied with a chuckle.
Dr. Zanasiu looked at the Corvette, both back windows had been completely shot out and the back doors and trunk were riddled with bullet holes. "I'll get it fixed later."
At this point, the vehicle's tank was completely filled and he paid, taking the change and literally shoving it in the cup holder.
He looked at himself in the rear-view mirror. His lab coat and pants were caked in grease, dirt, soot and blood. His face was about as bad, he had grease, blood and soot all over his face and hair.
He then drove off and reentered the highway. After driving several minutes, tiredness was overtook him and he decided to pull off the road and take a nap.
-
Aisha shook her head. "I don't think we can afford to go back , we barely escaped our pursuers last time. Lets just hope he got out and is on his way here .. Zachary does Cyclo have a communicator on him?If he does try contacting it" She said. "But be discreet. say you're his father or something.."
-
It was still dark when Ariol's chopper reached 'Base 4' in California. It was a supertanker modified to hold many of Dragonstorm's work, although not it's primary base of operations, and keep them hidden from prying eyes. Loyal soldiers and mercenaries guarded the ship and docks as the chopper landed on the helipad.
Ariol was calm, but it has not been a happy day...
----------
As Snow and Aiko were being treated for injuries, Dr Joe and X-278 sat quietly in the mess hall while Vic waited at the doorway. Dragonstorm itself has escaped capture, their team leader now lies in a morgue, and Dr Zanasiu's group is still being hunted by the Army as if they were terrorists.
So far, his trips to Pelvanida has not been good...
-
(OOC - Zachary is in a different Humvee but I will assume that Aisha used the radio system.)
"As far as I know, Sgt. Clyco has no communications equipment and if he does, we don't know what frequency to use. And there is a good chance that if we screw it up those troopers will find us." Zachary replied via the radio.
Alfred overheard the whole conversation. "The faster we get to Carson City, the better."
The next 45 or so minutes were uneventful until the lead Humvee, which happened to be the one that Zachary was driving noticed a red bullet riddled Corvette on the side of the road.
"Hey! It's James!" Zachary shouted over the radio. "He's on the side of the road!"
-------------------------
"Not at all. Once we secure this base and kill or arrest Dr. Zanasiu and his men, we will arrange for your travel home." the squad leader said. "Of course, you can hasten the process by helping us."
"Isn't that against Dra..." one of troopers said before the squad leader silenced him.
"I am not going to make him part of the squad. I just want some information." the Squad Leader then turned to Sgt. Clyco. "Sgt. Clyco, you will permitted to accompany us on our sweep of the base if you so desire. You may also decide not to accompany us but you will be guarded. In either case, you must surrender all your weapons. Am I clear?"
-
Pull over Alfred' Dr. landon said, pointing at the bullet ridden Corvette. "I think he needs a ride..'
-
"Of course captain," responded Clyco, "I think i'll stay, though it would be nice if you stopped pointing those guns at me, those things are dangerous."
Clyco stepped over the the gun lockers, and opened them up revealing row on row of various class weapons and munitions.
"On the subject of me handing over my weapons, go ahead, take as many as you can carry. Might not want the piece of garbage I'm working on though... Spaz really needs increase the mechanical reliability of their trigger mechanisms."
-
Alfred pulled off the road. The other Humvees followed him.
He then leapt from the vehicle and pounded on the Corvette's window.
James awoke from the pounding. "Who the hell are you?" he asked groggily.
"It's Alfred, Aisha and Dr. Landon. We saw your car on the side of the road."
"I was taking a nap." Dr. Zanasiu replied. "I've been up for the past 24+ hours."
"We've all been." Alfred replied. "I do need less sleep than a Human but even I have my limits. Right now, I am running on strong black coffee."
"How much farther to Carson City?"
Alfred looked at a nearby sign. "About 300 miles. We're getting closer."
------------------------
The Squad Leader ordered the troopers to lower their weapons but keep them ready.
Two of the troopers guarding Sgt. Clyco lowered their weapons.
"One last question, then we'll leave you with two of the guards here. Have you seen Dr. Zanasiu or any of his men?" the Squad Leader asked.
-
"I'd help you out, but I've only been here a day and a half," responded Clyco, "I don't know anyone here enough to say for certain."
Seeing that they weren't going to take the weapons, Clyco closed the doors and went back to attempting to repair his shotgun.
-
"Dr. Zanasiu, is somewhat skinny, black haired man. He's roughly 5'7" and he's usually wearing a lab coat and tan pants. He has grey eyes and he's roughly 25-27 years old." the Squad Leader said.
-
"Haven't seen him, sorry." responded Clyco.
He was too busy for this, if these guys really wanted Dr. Z they could find him themselves.
-
"Thank you." The Squad Leader replied. He then took his men and left the AWTR. Two of the men were left behind to guard Sgt. Clyco.
-
(OOC: Who are the guards he left behind?)
Clyco was glad they were leaving him in peace, he had half expected to be arrested or detained. For once, he felt good being a dignitary from another nation but it seemed to protect him from a logical standpoint.
Ignoring the guards for the moment, he went back to repairing the Spaz that had quit on him. A few clicks and a lock and the hammer was back in place. Time to see if his repair job was suffice.
"Hey, since this is a testing range, do you mind if I take a shot or two to see if I put it back together correctly?" Clyco asked of the nearest guard. Down range another plastic target rolled into position.
-
(OOC - They are just there and are mostly "decoration". Um, what about the disabled SUV in the desert?)
One of the guards, a Human nodded. "You may do so but we will need to accompany you."
Just behind Sgt. Clyco on a catwalk above the testing range, a Chameleon sniper phased into view for a few moments. He then later seemed to melt into the wall behind the catwalk.
-
(OOC: I have something really bad-ass planned for them, but first I want to finish up Clyco's bit. Best not switch back and forth too much)
"Right-o," replied Clyco with disregard, like they we his friends instead of armed guards, "The close-range targets are just in the back, follow me."
Srgt. Clyco heaved the Shotgun onto his shoulder so the barrel was pointing towards the roof, and picked up an unopened cartrage of shotgun shells he left on the table.
The group of them came to a steel door, the entrance to the range.
"Hang on a second..." Clyco pulled the VIP's card out of his pocket and scanned it on a keypad. The door locks disengaged, and the door creaked open at the Sergeant's light push.
The atmosphere was cool and quiet... but once the firing started the concrete walls of the room kept the sound inside making it quite deafening.
As they entered, one of the guards had the courtesy to close the door behind him.
...
"So, where you guys from?" asked Clyco as he opened up the case and started loading shells into the chamber.
Behind him one of the guards sat on the bench, while the other remained right next to him at the stand.
Another plastic target lowered from the roof, this one much closer then the one in the previous room.
-
(OOC - You did noticed the OOC I made a while back that stated that these troopers <unknown to the characters> are Dragonstorm personnel? I was planning for the Chameleon sniper to take out the guards watching Clyco, introduce himself, explain what happened and take him back to Carson City Camp.)
"We're from Fort Tessect." the Human guard replied. "Sent over to eliminate Dr. Zanasiu and secure Pelvanida."
"I have a feeling something's up." The German Shepherd guard replied. "I mean, this entire base is empty and we haven't found any hostages. Do you think we've been lured into an ambush?"
The Human guard shook his head. Suddenly, his radio beeped. He listened to it and shook his head.
"Just came in. Some of the tank drivers reported shooting at a Corvette hurtling from Pelvanida. They said it looked like Dr. Zanasiu was at the wheel. Also two tanks were reported destroyed by some Humvees, apparently with stolen weaponry." the Human said, putting his radio back.
"He escaped with his men!?" the German Shepherd said.
"Sounds like it but Carson City Sheriff's Office, Carson Camp and the Nevada Highway Patrol have been alerted."
----------------------
The Chameleon sniper swore as the guards and Clyco retreated into the testing chamber. He could not shoot them as he could not see them.
"Let's hope Dr. Z and his gang get to Carson City and speak to General Moby before these guys wreck Pelvanida or worse." he muttered.
(OOC - The Chameleon sniper is from Carson City Camp and an ally of Dr. Zanasiu.)
-
(OOC: But Carson City base is on Dragonstorm's side right?)
"Well it sounds like you guys are in a pretty messy situation, eh?" asked Clyco rhetorically as he finished loading the shells and clicked the hammer into place, taking the safety off.
"From my experience, the thing about ambushes is they tend to happen when you least expect them."
On that note Srgt. Clyco turned on a dime and shot at one of the guards point blank, blasting him right in the chest. Before the other guard could register what had just happened, Clyco loosed three close range shots at him, ripping him to shreds and spattering blood everywhere.
One thing Clyco liked about Spaz guns, they never ever broke.
The guard nearest to him was still breathing. Clyco pulled out his sidearm, and cocked it.
"One lesson you Dragonstorm guys should have learned already, never confront your enemy next to a gun locker. This one's for Sam Cardon."
And Clyco shot him twice in the face.
...
-
(OOC - Carson City Camp is an allied base. Ft. Tessect is an enemy base. Dr. Zanasiu is taking his men to Carson City Camp to try retake Pelvanida.)
Dr. Zanasiu and his group were now closer to Carson City. The convoy was spearheaded by a Humvee and the Corvette was in the middle, protected by the other Humvees.
"Just a few more miles." Dr. Zanasiu said. The sign he passed read Carson City Camp: 50 miles.
--------------------------
Alfred was sipping his black coffee as he drove the rear guard Humvee. "Let's hope we don't have to engage in a massive firefight."
--------------------------
"Corporal Stern, you are aware that we may need to leave the state of Nevada or even the entire country because of this fiasco, right?" Zachary asked. He was driving the Humvee at the head.
-
(OOC: It would be very interesting if this convoy encountered the platoon of tanks that battled the Dragonstorm convoy)
-
(OOC - They will but the tanks and their crew will be encountered at Carson City Camp, not on the road.)
Two other special forces troopers entered the AWTR but the Chameleon sniper quickly shot them through the head, leaving large spatters of blood on the doorway. To the now dead snipers, it looked like they had been shot from nowhere as the AWTR seemed to be empty.
-
Aisha continued looking ahead as the miles flew by. ' i'm going to have a lot to tell my dad..' she said sadly. "Dragonstorm was much further along than we suspected, ands its going to take a long time to catch up with them and eliminate them.."
-
"We're in even deeper [censored] now. Because of the special forces incident." Alfred said, sighing. "To be honest, this whole situation overwhelmed me; I mean in a few days I go from construction worker to action hero."
"Guys, we're at Carson City Camp." the radio crackled
------------------------
As Zachary drove his Humvee into the entrance, several guards surrounded him and ordered him out.
Zachary showed the guard his identification and let him through. Dr. Zanasiu did the same.
"Aisha, we're next." Alfred whispered as he pulled up to the gate.
"State your business!" a guard ordered.
------------------------
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary parked their vehicles and rushed into General Moby's office.
"General Moby, sir. We've..." Dr. Zanasiu began.
"I know." General Moby replied. "It's as I feared; Dragonstorm has allies everywhere. Luckily I have contacted Ft. Tessect and they have rectified the situation and are ordering their troops to withdraw from Pelvanida under penalty of treason. Also, we have found strange signals that match our frequency. We will need to wait until your allies arrive then we can discuss everything."
-
Aisha pulled out her military ID. "we're here to see the general,on very important business." dr Landon shopwed the guard his credentials..
-
The guard let Aisha, Dr. Landon and Alfred through.
Alfred parked his Humvee and entered Gen. Moby's office.
Dr. Zanasiu, Dr. Bailey, Zachary, Nixon, Dr. Greene and PFC Reynolds were already present.
"Okay now that everyone's here. Let's start the briefing shall we?" Gen. Moby said.
-
well, its really bad General. Worse than we thought" Aisha said. "Dragonstorm is now a serious national security threat.. and they need to be weeded out.."
_ Yes, thwy managed to eludeour pursuit of them.. you saw the carnage in Vegas.. they was Dragonstorm cutting their way through the city, and us trying to keep up.." Dr Landon said..
-
General Moby nodded. "I have been in contact with Ft. Tessect. They are ordering their troops to withdraw from Pelvanida under penalty of treason. So far it seems that they are complying but there are some there who we suspect are under Dragonstorm's payroll."
"General, if I may interrupt. I noticed that there are some Canadian tanks present." Dr. Greene said.
"About that Dr. Greene, they claimed to have engaged what they think is a Dragonstorm convoy outside Las Vegas. They are being questioned about it." General Moby responded. "In addition, we intercepted this transmission, which was broadcast on the same frequency as our radios."
He then pulled out a magnetic reel to reel recorder from under his desk and played it.
Soon this was heard throughout the briefing room: "This is Dr. Christopher O'Donnell. I am calling from Carson City Camp and General Moby has authorized use of this channel. I am alerting you to the fact that a Dr. James Zanasiu has seized control of the base with a group of his fellow scientists. They have killed all the guards and they have taken the whole facility. I am one of the lucky ones to escape. O'Donnell out."
"See the obvious problem there?" General Moby asked. "We NEVER allow use of our channel by anyone other than US military personnel."
-
Meanwhile, Vic was called in to his superior's office for a report. His commander, a Raccoon Dog with a rank of Major, was waiting.
"You requested for me, sir?" Vic saluted.
"I have, Lieutenant. Your group did quite a bit of progress to expose Dragonstorm. The data you've acquired revealed much of their operations, their projects, and even a few more facilities they're using as backup if Pelvanida is discovered. Now is the time we started planning for strikes against these bases, and that will need more soldiers for the mission. Also...because that Pelvanida we know is out of business, it would be unlikely we'll need Professor Smithson and the experiments for the immediate future..."
"So...how do I fit into the mission? The reason I was needed last time was because I too know my way around the base."
"You also have experience against these Dragonstorm abominations, and even though Commander Jones died of mortal wounds, you still have an excellent record as a combat medic. You and Sergeant Aiko are still needed for these missions. Your friend Snow might still be useful, if she wants to of course. She may now be a legal citizen, but she's no soldier."
"I'll speak of it further with her. We had left some friends back before, and..."
"Dr Zainasiu and his company? New 'Dragonstorm' terrorists? We know they aren't whom they are claimed to be by the military, but as of now, our hands are tied. We can only help them by destroying Dragonstorm. Hopefully your friend will think more on helping complete the mission as well as finding her boyfriend..."
"Yes, sir..."
"Stick around, Lieutenant. I may need to talk to you again soon. Dismissed."
The two saluted, and Vic walked out of the office back to the mess hall...
-
"Any questions?" General Moby said.
"Just one. Are we getting any reinforcements?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
General Moby shook his head. "I will be sending Cobalt Squad but nothing else."
"Cobalt Squad?" Alfred asked.
"They're the squad who helped us secure Pelvanida during the terrorist attack a few months back." Dr. Zanasiu replied. "We can trust them."
"Dismissed." General Moby said.
-
One thing General, please contact my father and give us an update on our progress." Aisha said " he promised to pay you" She said turning to Dr Zaniusu and the others. " "and He will. So I'm giving you an option. You can take the money now, or you can defer it until after we stop dragonstorm for good.. What will it be.. Alfred, You'll get paid as well, since you've been such a big help.."She added looking at her friends.
-
"I'd rather not take it now. It would prove a hinderance in our operations to stop Dragonstorm." Alfred said.
"Same here." Dr. Zanasiu said
"We may need to take some as we will probably have to be living out of our Humvees and hotels. I mean, Dragonstorm's basically slandered us, big time. And until we clean this mess up, we'd better stay the hell out of Nevada." Dr. Greene said.
"So where can we go?" Nixon asked.
"Dragonstorm's convoy was heading north. So we'd best head to Oregon and Washington state." Zachary said.
General Moby made a gesture for everyone to be silent as he dialed Dr. Tenne's number. He then put Dr. Tennes on speakerphone.
"Hello, this is General Moby. I have some terrible news to report. Dragonstorm has escaped and they have seized control of Pelvanida. We are mounting an operation to retake Pelvanida. Your daughter and Dr. Zanasiu are safe but due to either a mix up or false transmission they got tagged as being part of Dragonstorm."
"I hope Shelton and Dr. Kerzach are okay." Dr. Zanasiu muttered.
-
The Admiral responded " General, pull whatever strings you have to, to make sure they stay safe. This news is bad, although judging by my contacts, not surprising. They are now a full-fledged national security threat.. Gentlemen, you have suceeded somewhat.. they are now more out in the open, they wouldn't have tried to slander you if you weren't gettingh close. Yes they mamnaged to escape, but now we are going to go after them. I'm going obver to the White House later this afternoon to present a briefing to the president. including info I've obtained from contacts and from the information you've given me.. those allied with Dragonstorm will be exposed in time.. they will face the consequences, and they will be severe. For now, go after them.. and once they are dealt with, not only will your names be cleared , your compensation will be greatly augmented. Good luck to all of you.. Tennnes out."
-
Dr. Zanasiu gulped. "I guess we'd better head back to Pelvanida."
"Yeah, let's get moving." Dr. Greene said.
He along with Alfred, Zachary and Nixon got up and headed out the door.
"Good luck." General Moby said. At this moment, a fax came through. He read the fax.
"Ft. Tessect's troops are leaving Pelvanida. You are to assume that anyone remaining there is a rogue and you may use lethal force." General Moby read
Dr. Zanasiu and PFC Reynolds got up and headed out the door to their vehicles.
-------------
Alfred then spotted a squad of 5 soldiers near the Humvee. Two of the soldiers carried Mossberg 500 shotguns and the rest carried M4 carbines.
"Are you Cobalt Squad?" Alfred asked.
The squad leader, a short but muscular Human nodded. "This is Cobalt Squad and I am known as Cobalt Leader."
Zachary grinned as she spotted Cobalt Leader. "So I guess we meet again?"
Cobalt Leader nodded. "Too bad it had to be at this time."
-
I'll tell them" aisha said "Its shoot on sight, right?' Aisha had remained behind to the gather he things, now she headed back outside where she meet up with the Others ' We have been authorized to use lethal force. Shoot on sight' She said to the others. ' anyone remaining at Pelvanida is considered an enemy.."
Dr landon climbed into the back seat. "Lets go after these scum!"
-
Alfred got into Aisha and Dr. Landon's Humvee and started the engine.
Dr. Zanasiu got into "his" Corvette.
Werner got into the laser Humvee where Hans was the gunner.
Zachary got into the laser Humvee where PFC Reynolds was the gunner.
Nixon got into the railgun Humvee where Dr. Greene was serving as the gunner.
The Cobalt squad got into their own armored vehicle: A Stryker infantry fighting vehicle.
The IFV drove out of Carson City Camp with the Humvees and the Corvette following.
-----------------
"Wait, why didn't General Moby tell us about what the Canadian tank pilots know?" Alfred asked.
-
Because he just got that information as we were leaving ' Aisha replied. ' Had I not stopped to get my things in order, we woouldn't know about the authorization of lethal force.."
-
"Good point." Alfred replied. At this point they were out on the highway and several cars were present but they quickly yielded to the large IFV and convoy of Humvees.
He then briefly turned around and noticed that his shotgun was still in place.
He then turned on the public address system and to his surprise Sabaton's Primo Victoria began blasting from the speaker system.
Alfred quickly turned off the radio. "Erm guys, should we put this track back on or no?
(OOC - listen to Primo Victoria here: Primo Victoria (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZm4zseMok0))
-
"Turn that track off!" Corporal Stern exclaimed. "I can hardly stand it!"
-
Try and find something.. a little more.. uplifting" Aisha said " I like being in a positive moood, whenever possible..
-
Alfred shrugged and turned the radio off. "That's what was in the CD player. It seems appropriate though."
-
Several hours had passed and it was nearing dusk. The convoy was almost at Pelvanida's gates.
Cobalt Leader noticed that several tanks and armored personnel carriers were leaving Pelvanida but quite a few tanks were still present. He then radioed everyone.
-----------------
The radio in Alfred's Humvee crackled.
"This is Cobalt Leader, the forces are leaving Pelvanida but we've still got a few hostiles present. Cobalt Leader out."
"Well, I guess our task just got easier."
-
Lets hope so, but given our experiences so far, nothing has been easy.." Aisha said.
-
A loud explosion thundered outside Alfred's Humvee as an explosive shell narrowly missed him. They were now inside Pelvanida and the few tanks that were remaining were attacking them.
"They're firing!" Nixon's voice shouted through the radio.
The tank that had fired at him was struck by the railgun projectile of Nixon's Humvee. The projectile had actually wedged itself in the turret rendering it useless.
However, the coaxial machine guns were still active and they proceeded to riddle Zachary's Humvee with bullets.
------------------
"Do something!" Dr. Bailey shouted as bullets pinged off the Humvee.
PFC Reynolds aimed at the offending tank and fired his laser cannon.
The invisible beam burned through the tank's armor, igniting the ammunition.
Zachary then sped up and drove past the burning tank. His Humvee ran out of fuel and he - carrying Dr. Bailey - and PFC Reynolds ditched and ran into the base via an opening that had been blasted into the wall by a stray tank round.
------------------
"There's another one!" Nixon shouted, pointing to another tank that was trying to hit Zachary's Humvee.
"Damn it! I can't fire that fast! The railgun needs to build up power!" Dr. Greene shouted.
Another tank burst into flame as Hans fired his laser cannon.
---------------------
Dr. Zanasiu's Corvette finally died after being riddled with machine gun fire. He grabbed his shotgun and bolted for the entrance of the complex. He had several bleeding cuts on his face but he was otherwise unhurt.
---------------------
The Cobalt Squad's Stryker was hit by an armor piercing HEAT shell. Cobalt Squad bailed just as the Stryker's fuel went up in flames.
They took cover behind some rocks and waited for a chance to get into the complex.
---------------------
"[censored]!" Nixon shouted as a tank shot out the tires with its coaxial machine guns.
Unfortunately for Nixon, the crippled Humvee provided a perfect target for one of the tanks, which nailed the Humvee with a direct hit from an explosive shell. The Humvee burst into flame as the fuel ignited.
---------------------
Alfred's Humvee blew a tire as it was struck with shrapnel from a near miss. The Humvee skidded into a guard post near the main entrance. Nearby was Dr. Zanasiu's wrecked Corvette.
"Aisha! We've got to get moving!" Alfred shouted, grabbing his shotgun, leaping out of the Humvee and bolting into the building.
Outside, some more tanks began to converge on the scene.
(OOC - Assume Dr. Bailey's in Zachary's Humvee.)
-
Aisha swore as she and Dr Landon dashed from the wrecked Humvee. " So whats the plan? She yelled as she ran after Alfred and into the building, which shook from the reverbations of the battle outside. Dr landon follwed cklose behind, he had been nicked by a stray bullet but he was ignoring the pain for now.."
-
Dr. Zanasiu had met up with Zachary and PFC Reynolds in the wrecked lab.
"Man, I wish the tank drivers had left too." Zachary said, wiping sweat from his brow.
"Hey can get a weapon or no? Because I think these guys now want to kill me."
"Still don't trust you." Dr. Zanasiu said.
PFC Reynolds sighed. He then move his hand and felt a pistol under a desk. He carefully slid the pistol out and tucked into his sleeve.
----------------------
Cobalt Squad found their chance to bolt into the building as Hans and Werner destroyed one of the tanks then ditched the Humvee and ran into the building.
Cobalt Squad soon met up with Aisha, Dr. Landon and Alfred.
"Well, we can only move in." Alfred said, readying his shotgun.
A sound from a nearby lab caught a Cobalt trooper's attention.
"Cover me." he said, readying his shotgun.
Alfred nodded and followed the trooper.
-
Aisha held her gun at the ready as she folloed closely behing Alfred and the Cobalt trooper. " jUst be on your guard.. We don't know how many are still lurking around here.." She whispered.
-
Dr. Zanasiu heard footsteps coming into the room and he readied his shotgun. As soon as he saw the figure, he shot at it but missed.
"Doc! What the hell do you think you are doing!?" the figure shouted.
"Cobalt Leader?" Dr. Zanasiu asked.
"Yes and you almost took my head off!" Cobalt Leader shouted.
"Well, I can't see too well when the lights are mostly shot out and when there's dust everywhere!"
Alfred and the rest of the Cobalt Squad filed in with their weapons drawn.
"Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Reynolds, that you?" Alfred asked, keeping his shotgun ready.
"Yep. We're all here. Can't find Hans and Werner though." Zachary replied.
"Best we move deeper. No one's here." Dr. Zanasiu said, heading out the door with Zachary and PFC Reynolds following.
-------------------------------
The Chameleon sniper shot some more of the rogue special forces troopers as they entered the AWTR. Unfortunately, by this time some of them began to figure out where he was, even though he moved around the catwalks constantly, and started firing at where they thought he was. A lucky shot destroyed his active camo system but he was protected from serious injury thanks to his armor. The damage to his active camo system forced him to "decloak". He killed the last trooper, slung his rifle across his back and drew his pistol. He then got down from the catwalk and bolted into the testing range.
He noticed the smell of blood in the air and spotted some dead soldiers.
(OOC - Caustizer, now is the perfect time for Sgt. Clyco and the Chameleon sniper to meet each other.)
-
(OOC: The door to the testing range was locked and required keycard access to get in, but luckily the door opens just as he approaches it)
Srgt. Clyco heard the shooting outside, so he knew he had an ally somewhere in this mess. As a trained soldier, he wasn't about to take any chances though. Clicking open the gun cabnets he pulled out two MP5's, his favourite medium range sub-machinegun. With quarters as close as they were, the rapid fire would be most useful.
Loading and priming both magazines, and grabbing as much spare ammo as he could, Clyco carefully creaked open the door. Someone was there alright, and they were running quite quickly towards the now open door.
At that moment the Srgt. kicked open the door, and raised both his weapons up to chest level.
"I wouldn't take another step if I were you... unless you were planning on giving me your ass."
It was a Duke Nukem quote - Clyco loved Duke Nukem.
-
The Chameleon sniper immediately froze in his tracks and he lowered his pistol.
"I am Specialist Leon Jackson from Carson City Camp. Are you Sgt. Fredrick Clyco?" he asked.
-
"Depends if your here to take me home or not," Clyco answered as he lowered his firearms. He wasn't sure about this guy, but the clear amount of bodies on the floor attested to his allegience.
-
"I assume you are Sgt. Clyco. In any case, I am here to take you back to Carson City Camp. General Moby has some questions to ask of you regarding a Canadian tank platoon that is at Carson City for repairs. We will make arrangements for you to return home." Spc. Jackson said.
-
"Your general can ask me what he wants, but I can't guarentee I know the answer. I'm just an upper class foot soldier on escort duty, I wasn't aware that the Canadian Government had any tanks here," responded Clyco.
Srgt. Clyco was getting suspicious of this mysterious helper... could it be that he was with Dragonstorm too and that they were trying to get some answers out of him?
-
Dr. Bailey had found a piece of scrap metal to use as a crutch.
"Aisha, you, Dr. Landon, Werner and PFC Reynolds check the labs. Dr. Zanasiu, myself and Cobalt Squad will look for Werner and Hans." Zachary said.
"And what about me?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"You'll have to help Aisha's group."
-
alright, but how should we contact you if we find anything?' aisha asked , sighing" alright. Dr. Bailey, stick close to us..if you can.."
-
"Well, I still have my radio." Alfred said, pulling it out of his pocket.
"As do I." Dr. Bailey said.
"If anyone's missing a radio, swipe one from either a lab or a dead soldier." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Okay, James and I are heading out." Zachary said.
He and James then exited the lab.
-
leasd the way Alfed' Dr landon said, giving his friend a look.. "its dark in here, so everyone needs to watch their step.."
-
While the team recuperated, there was much action going on in the control room of the base. Somehow the thermal bomb had not detonated, and Dragonstorm may be trying to take the base again. News was reached that a covert squadron has re-entered Pelvanida.
One commander is trying to get in touch with the team inside. "Crimson Base to Cobalt Squadron Leader. Come in..."
-
Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary had entered one of the labs. The lab had a gaping hole blasted in the back from a stray tank round.
Zachary and Dr. Zanasiu swept around with their tactical lights while Cobalt Squad kept watch.
Cobalt Leader suddenly got a transmission. "Crimson Base, this is Cobalt Leader."
-----------------
Alfred nodded. "I can hear better than Humans; I'll lead."
He then walked down the darkened hallways of Pelvanida, relying only on his shotgun's tactical light.
-
" warn us if there are any steps ahead of us, I don't want to stumble in the dark " aisha said softly..
-
Alfred and his group were now inside the large main hanger of Pelvanida. The hanger was dark as the lights were off and the doors sealed. He heard some chatter from above.
He shone his tactical light on the catwalk above them and spotted the glint of a rifle scope. He pushed Aisha out of the way as a rifle bullet struck a crate behind her head.
Alfred dove behind a large diesel engine as a bullet pinged off the engine.
-
Aisha quickly got to her feet. He nodded as a way of thanking Alfred for his quick thinkiong and joined him in firing back at the sniper , who had JUST missed hitting her..
-
"Crimson Base to Cobalt Leader. Can you give us your position and situation in Pelvanida. Last reports have said a thermo-weapon bomb was located in the base."
-
"We are searching for Hans and Werner Donitz. The base appears to be almost deserted as of now but we ran into some tanks outside. As for the bomb..." Cobalt Leader replied.
"The bomb's been deactivated. Alfred and Aisha cut the power." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"The bomb has been deactivated. As for position, we are inside a lab but due to damage sustained, we are unable to determine which lab." Cobalt Leader continued.
----------------
Alfred fired a shotgun blast at the mysterious sniper. He did not hit anyone.
"Aisha, Dr. Landon shoot at the catwalks I'm going to try and flush him out." Alfred said.
-
(OOC: Sorry for not being here more! I've got the LSAT to take and have no fewer than three projects for school, homework, finals coming up, and some other stuff!)
Corporal Stern asked Alfred for directions.
"Any orders? Need me to do anything?"
-
Alfred spotted movement and fired his shotgun; unfortunately, that was his last shell. He then threw the shotgun aside and readied his gauss rifle.
"There are snipers on the catwalks. We'll need to lay suppressive fire, then we'll head up to the catwalks and neutralize them." Alfred said. "As for my rifle, I have no idea how to use this new gauss rifle. At close range, I can do fine but sniping, no way."
-
"Understood" Stern replied, loading his semiautomatic. "Go ahead, Alfred. I'll cover you. I can do sniping if I have to."
-
"Aisha! Dr. Landon! We're moving now! " Alfred said, dashing from behind the engine and scrambling up the ladder to the catwalks.
-------------------------
Hans and Werner were hiding inside a deserted lab. They had stumbled upon some of the rogue special forces troopers who proceeded to attack them.
Hans said nothing as he swapped out the drained power cell on his laser rifle.
Werner fired off a burst of gauss rounds that took out a trooper trying to throw a grenade.
-
" We'll cover you" Dr landon said firing a volley of bullets at the catwalk before reaching the Ladder. As he climbed up, Aisha provided cover until he was nearly at the top., then she began climbing. the sound of bullets pinging off of metal reverberated through the room.
-
Alfred made it to the top of the ladder. He readied his rifle and shot the spotter for the sniper nearest him. The sniper fumbled for his pistol but Alfred quickly shot him in the head. The gauss slug actually flew through the catwalk and struck a crate underneath.
He then squinted and saw the spotter for the other sniper standing with pistol in hand above the ladder.
"Aisha! There's someone waiting for you at the top of the ladder!" he shouted.
The spotter turned around and spotted Alfred. However, this caused him to take his eyes off the ladder.
-
Aisha aimed her rifdle and fired off a shot, hitting the sniper in the stomach, and causing him to pitch forward into space, as he fell, he let forth a blood curdling scream as he fell to his death. Aisha winced as he splattered into the floor below. turning her head from the revolting sight, she turned ahead to reach the top of the ladder, climbing off she saw another sniper running away from alfred towards the far end of the catwalk. " Get Him! She called put, " thayts the last of the snipers!"
-
Alfred fired off a few shots most of them missed but one lucky shot hit the sniper in the leg, dropping him.
"He's down!" Alfred shouted.
He then ran to the far end of the catwalk where the sniper was crumpled on the ground. The sniper tried to draw a pistol but the shock and blood loss was weakening him.
"What do you want?" the man asked, his voice trempling at seeing the hulking figure of Alfred.
"Information." Alfred replied. He then kicked the pistol off the catwalk.
"What more could I tell you?"
"Where are the rest of the troops?"
-------------
Dr. Bailey had not moved an inch from the bin of scrap metal he had taken cover behind when the shooting started.
-
"Tell us, and we're treat your injuries, which are serious, but if you don't coperate, the blood loss will probably kill you' Aisha said bitterly, " How many of you are there?'
-
"Crimson Base to Cobalt Leader. The US Armed Forces have reportedly withdrawn from the base. There should be no military presence there. We'll have recon over the base in 5 minutes, and air strike wings are mobilizing to launch in a few moments. Is there anything you need until then?"
-
Tell us.. it will be better for you, if you do. I'm a dr and i can treat your wounds' Dr landon said..
-
"Crimson Base, this is Cobalt Leader. We are in no need of anything as of now. Shall we prepare for evacuation?" Cobalt Leader responded. He then turned to Dr. Zanasiu.
"Crimson Base is sending some air support in 5 minutes." he said to Dr. Zanasiu.
Dr. Zanasiu nodded. "We may need it."
--------------------------
The wounded sniper shuddered. "There are about 100 soldiers left here. They are the ones who are willing to risk their lives to ensure that you do not find Dragonstorm. The others were duped into coming here. As for where the other Dragonstorm bases are. All I will tell you is..." The sniper took one last ragged breath and grew still.
Alfred nodded. "Looks like we have to purge this base."
-------------------------
Hans and Werner had finally killed the rogue special forces troopers after an intense gun battle. Shrapnel had left multiple cuts on their faces but they ignored it.
They then darted out of the lab and passed by the lab that Cobalt Squad, Dr. Zanasiu and Zachary were in.
Zachary spotted them and waved them inside. They obeyed him and entered the lab.
-
dr landon gave each of them a sloemn look.. ' we must find the rest of those soldiers, and get out of here.."
_ Yeah, theres about 100, if what he said is true' Alicia said..
-
Alfred climbed down from the catwalk.
"We done?" Dr. Bailey asked.
Alfred nodded. "Let's get moving."
Alfred then left the hanger and entered the hallways, which were strangely empty.
"Alfred, come here." Zachary called to him from a lab.
Alfred entered the lab at Zachary's request.
"So any news?" Zachary asked.
"We got ambushed by snipers in the main hanger." Dr. Bailey responded.
"Also, we learned that there are 100 soldiers or so still present. We're horribly outnumbered." Alfred added.
"Actually, we may have to evacuate soon." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Why?"
"Crimson Base is sending air support. They'll arrive in 5 or so minutes. Cobalt Leader is asking if evacuation is advised."
"Will probably be. They're probably going to bomb Pelvanida to hell." Hans replied, holding a paper towel to a cut on his forehead.
"Where to now?" PFC Reynolds asked.
"The AWTR is probably a good idea. For all we know, those traitorous bastards could be swiping all of our prototypes." Zachary replied.
-
we need to move out then.. lead the way Alfred.. I sense iour jorney has only begun" Aisha said
-
"Cobalt Squad, meet up with us at the AWTR." Dr. Zanasiu said.
He and the rest of the group headed down the deserted hallways to the AWTR.
When they arrived, they noticed that the doors to the outside testing range were still open, letting in ample light.
There were also several bodies on the ground near the entrance.
Dr. Zanasiu carefully examined the dead bodies. They were all the same rogue special forces soldiers that attacked them. Each had been killed with a single shot to the head.
Hans examined one of the dead soldiers. "Looks like the work of a sniper."
Werner looked at the catwalks above the AWTR. "A group should search the catwalks for the sniper. Another group should sweep the AWTR."
"I'll go on the catwalks." Zachary said.
"I'll follow." Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"I'll go with James and Zach." Hans replied.
Werner looked around. "I guess that leaves Aisha, Dr. Landon, Dr. Bailey, Alfred and myself to sweep the ground floor."
Dr. Bailey hobbled behind an armored gun locker that was set near the entrance. "I'll stay behind some cover thank you very much."
Dr. Zanasiu shrugged. "Whatever, get moving we don't have much time."
Dr. Zanasiu, Hans and Zachary slung their weapons across their backs and climbed up the ladders leading to the catwalks.
Werner looked around and spotted a partially closed door.
"We'll need to check in there." he said.
-
"Crimson Base to Cobalt Leader. Air strike will be armed with deep-penetration and air burst munitions. Evacuation is greatly advised no later than 20 minutes."
----------
A squadron of seven F-117 Nighthawks began to taxi towards the end of tarmac...
-
" Acknowledged. Cobalt Leader out." Cobalt Leader said. He then radioed everyone else. "Everyone, this is Cobalt Leader. I was just informed that Crimson Base is preparing to bomb Pelvanida. We should start preparing to leave."
He then ran to the AWTR.
----------------------------
Werner pushed the door open and spotted Sgt. Clyco and an unknown Chameleon soldier.
"You! Step away from Clyco!" Werner demanded, aiming his weapon at the soldier.
The Chameleon did so. "Werner Donitz I see."
"How do you know my name?"
"General Moby has told me about you and your allies. I was told I may encounter you. In any case, I am Specialist Leon Jackson of Carson City Camp."
-----------------------
Dr. Zanasiu, Hans and Zachary climbed down from the catwalks.
"Nothing up there." Hans said. His radio then beeped. He picked it up and listened. he then turned to everyone else. "Guys, Crimson Base is preparing an airstrike on Pelvanida. We should quickly sweep for friendlies and get out."
"Not sure if we have time." Zachary said. "I heard the transmission; we've got 20 minutes until they get here. Since we need to be away from the base when the bombing starts, we've got 10 minutes tops."
"Aisha! Alfred! Dr. Landon! I hope you heard what was said over the radio!" Dr. Zanasiu shouted.
-
"Who the hell is this?" demanded Clyco as he raised his shotgun even with the newcomer's, resulting in a standoff of sorts.
"Is this Werner Donitz one of your friends Camo-man?"
-
Spc. Jackson nodded. "He came with Dr. Zanasiu and his group to try and destroy the project known as Dragonstorm. I was sent over guard the AWTR."
-----------
Alfred nodded. "Heard ya, James!"
-----------
Dr. Zanasiu then heard voices coming from one of the testing chambers. He entered and spotted Sgt. Clyco in a standoff with Werner. An unknown Chameleon soldier was also present.
"Sgt. Clyco!" Dr. Zanasiu said, "We have to leave this base in 10 minutes or so. We've received Crimson Base is planning an air strike on Pelvanida."
-----------
Cobalt Squad also entered the room. They looked around and noticed the dead soldiers.
"Did we miss anything?" a Couger Cobalt soldier asked.
Another Cobalt soldier, a tall Human shook his head. "Doesn't look like it."
-
"As you say," responded Clyco as he lowered his gun.
"I'm glad I'm finally getting my ticket out of this mess.
-
Two by two (then one more), the Nighthawks launched into formation towards Pelvanida...
----------
"Crimson Base to Cobalt Leader. Air strike has launched. We only have 5 minutes to call off the strike if needed. Radar-jamming systems will initiate before attack. Do you wish to abort?"
-
"Negative. Cobalt Leader out." Cobalt Leader then cut the transmission. He then turned to everyone else. "Let's go. We've got 10 minutes tops before they bomb the place."
"Sgt. Clyco, we are preparing to leave the base." Werner said.
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Alfred, Hans, Spc. Jackson and the Cobalt Squad then left the AWTR and headed to the main parking lot at the front of the complex.
-
lets head out' Aishas said, as she followed Alfred towards the parking lot. "I'll admit, I'll be glad to be back on the road after those wackoes' she said refering to Dragonstorm.
- It will be awhile before we catch up to them" Dr Landon said. " They have a big head start.. " 'We're going to catch them, Dr Landon, we have to' Aisha said in reply.
-
Alfred saw the tanks in the distance. "We've got to move quick. We can't damage the tanks at all."
He then found a large pickup truck with dual rear wheels and a heavy brushguard on it. It bore the words "Irvine Construction" on its side.
He got in and grinned as he discovered that the keys were in the ignition. "Aisha! Dr. Landon! Get in!"
Cobalt Squad broke into a large van apparently was used to for delivering food. The keys were still inside.
"This should hold the rest of us." Cobalt Leader said.
Dr. Zanasiu, Hans, Werner and Zachary got into the van.
-
Aisha and Dr Landon clambered into the back seat. "Floor it Alfred" Aisha said buckling herself in. Dr Landon soon did the same " we need to make a run for it!"he said.
-
Alfred started the engine and pushed the accelerator as far as it would go. The truck roared to life as it slowly, but surely got moving. It soon drove out of the parking lot and headed down the road.
The van followed.
Soon, both vehicles were headed out of Pelvanida and back to Carson City Camp.
(OOC - Caustizer, can I assume Sgt. Clyco entered the delivery van? And what about the disabled Dragonstorm vehicle on the road?)
-
(OOC: Yes Sergeant Clyco did enter the van, and lets assume that the single Dragonstorm Jeep got away. I had originally planned to have them gun down the tank commander and escape, but thanks to University commitments I haven't had the time to machine the post)
-
(OOC - Yeah. They could have killed the tank commander and escaped "behind the scenes".)
Alfred turned the radio on and to his chagrin, Danger Zone began playing. He quickly turned it off.
"I guess now's not an appropriate time for that music?" he joked.
-------------------
"So now what do I do?" Dr. Bailey asked.
"Well since, we're going to be on the run. We'll have to either rely on the money Dr. Zanasiu is getting from Admiral Tennes or we'll need to get jobs." Zachary replied.
"What types of jobs?"
"Menial labor. We can't risk doing anything that could draw attention to ourselves, especially any work in the scientific, military or law enforcement fields." Dr. Zanasiu said.
Hans said nothing, as he was watching the road. Not surprisingly, all he could see in the rear view mirror was Alfred's truck.
Werner was taking a nap in the front seat.
Dr. Bradley was looking out the windshield.
-
The air squadron neared the base in formation.
"Crimson Hawk 1 to Crimson Base. Air strike ready to initiate..."
"Crimson Base to Crimson Hawk 1. All is clear and air strike initiation is green..."
"Crimson Hawk 1 confirmed. Strike initiating... All units, prepare to strike on my command... Enemy jamming engaged..."
Although hidden by the night sky and from radar, the squadron is soon heard by the roar of their engines as they flew by the heroes...
-
Alfred yawned and pulled into the a truck stop. "We really should nap for a bit before we continue. And refuel as well." He looked at the clock. "Even though it's only 6:00 at night."
He then reclined his seat and fell asleep.
------------------------
The sound of the stealth bombers was heard overhead as the group headed down the road.
"If we keep this up we'll get to Carson City by morning," Hans said, yawning. He almost involuntarily closed his eyes and drifted into the opposite lane.
He then woke and and corrected his mistake, waking everyone up.
"Hans! I think we should be taking a break for now!." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"You're right," Hans replied. He then pulled into the same truck stop as Alfred and turned the engine off.
-
"Crimson Leader to all units. Launching munnitions in three...two...one...fire."
The bomb bay on all planes have opened, then whatever guided bombs they were carrying dropped from the jets and begin to steer their way towards specific targets.
"Munnitions away..."
----------
Vic, Aiko, & Snow watched the strike on screen from way in the back of the control room...
-
I'll go pick up some supplies. we're going to be the road for awhile.. best stock upnow. snacks, drinks, potaato chips pretzels. .. you name it" Aishha said climbing oyt ogf the car.
-
Cobalt Squad was napping in the back of the van. Dr. Zanasiu was refueling the delivery van.
Zachary, Hans and Werner got out of the van and followed Aisha into the truck stop. The interior was well lit and looked rather clean. The tile floors and cinderblock walls were all painted a muted shade of yellow. A resturaunt and a store were near the entrance. Both appeared to be rather busy.
"Maybe we should wash up?" Zachary suggested. "My clothes are unbelievably nasty and say nothing of my fur."
"Yeah, the 'homeless bum/scientist' look isn't really appealing," Dr. Zanasiu replied. He then lowered his voice to a whisper. "And we don't want to attract attention."
As he was talking, two truckers, one a Black Bear and the other a Human were staring at them.
--------------------------
Explosions echoed across the Nevada desert as the bombs fell on Pelvanida.
The underground facilities were destroyed by the deep penetration munitions and all the surviving surface structures were leveled by the airburst munitions.
In mere moments, Pelvanida was no more. All that was left were scattered fires, craters and wreckage.
--------------------------
The explosions were heard at the truck stop roughly 200 miles or so away from Pelvanida.
-
"Crimson Leader to Crimson Base. Pelvanida has been destroyed. Repeat. Pelvanida is destroyed."
"Crimson Base to Crimson Leader. Has the thermoberic weapon detonated?"
"Negative. There is no secondary explosion by the underground weapon. Crimson Squadron returning to base..."
----------
"It's really over," Aiko said as he watched.
Vic shook his head. "It's only Round 2, and we'll only be moving to a new playing field..."
-
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Hans and Werner filed into the bathrooms to shower.
"Wow. This bathroom looks like something from a hotel." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Luckily, we got this entire bathroom to ourselves," Zachary said, placing a quarter into the slot and opening the door to a shower stall.
The others did the same. Soon the sound of running water was heard.
-----------------------
Alfred woke up and drove the truck over to the fuel pumps. He climbed out of the cab and began refueling the vehicle.
-
that sound means that Pelvanida is no more.." Dr Landon said to Alfred, as Aisha came up carrying 3 bags filled with snacks.. three LARGE bags.. "Well, guys, nothing more to do but begin the search.. there's no reason to go back to Pelvanida..'
-
"Yeah, we're pretty close to Carson City Camp." Alfred said. He then stretched. "Well, it looks like my construction work is done... Wait, I could use my vehicle to see if I could get a job in either construction or logging up in Oregon or Washington. I'll bet that Dragonstorm is hiding out in the forests. If anyone is likely to stumble upon them, it would be loggers."
-----------------------
Dr. Zanasiu, Zachary, Hans and Werner came out of the bathrooms and headed to the store.
"Well, what should we get?" Zachary asked.
"We should really get some snacks. We can't cook in our vehicles so we'll have to eat at diners," Dr. Zanasiu replied.
"Do we have money?"
"Yes."
The group then dispersed around the store and got the snacks they wanted.
"We're going to be eating dinner at Carson City."
-
As soon as the radar & transmission jamming was lifted...
"Crimson Base to Cobalt Leader. Please respond..."
-
Cobalt Leader was sleeping in the delivery van when his radio went off. He grabbed the radio.
"Crimson Base, this is Cobalt Leader. We are currently at," he looked outside the window, "Chaparral Truck Stop. We are also en route to Carson City Camp."
---------------------
Zachary, Hans, Werner and Dr. Zanasiu finished buying their snacks. They mostly consisted of tortilla chips, roasted nuts and kettle chips.
They left the store and placed their food inside the van.
"Okay, we're ready to roll out," Dr. Zanasiu said.
"Finally," PFC. Reynolds said.
"Don't be too pleased. We're not taking you with us. We're turning you over to Carson City Camp to face charges," Zachary said.
"You know, " Hans said, scratching his head " shouldn't we have taken that Sgt. Noleson, the rogue special forces leader?"
"We should have but Alfred blocked the closet he was locked in with a few hundred pounds of rubble. Besides, he would have probably gotten the death penalty so we saved the US military some trouble."
-------------------------
"Are you all ready to roll?" Alfred asked.
-
"Understood, Cobalt Leader. Your commanding officer at Carson City Camp should have all the information extracted from Dragonstorm's database. Stay well. Crimson Base out..."
-
Let's head out' Aisha said, tossing the food bags to Dr Landon. Aisha climbed into the passwenger seat and buckled herself in. " The sooner we get goimg, the less of a lead Dragonstorm has on us.
-
Dr. Zanasiu climbed into the back of the delivery van. "Anybody want to drive?" he asked groggily.
"I'll drive," Zachary said.
Dr. Zanasiu tossed Zachary the keys as he got into the driver's seat. Next to Zachary sat Hans.
"Okay, we all ready to roll?" Zachary asked.
There was no response. Zachary then started the truck's engine and pulled out of the parking lot.
-----------------------
Alfred looked at the clock: 9:50 PM. He was also looking at the map. "If we don't stop, we should arrive at Carson City by 3:00 or 4:00 AM," he said. He then started the engine and followed the delivery truck.
-----------------------
"So how long to Carson City?" Hans asked. They were now entering the highway, which was almost deserted save for a car in the distance.
"I'd wager maybe five or six hours." Zachary responded.
Werner, Dr. Zanasiu were sleeping in the back where all the weapons and food were stored. Cobalt Squad had their weapons at hand in case of an attack.
-
Drive as far as you can, if you need to take a nap, I'll drive for a bit if necessary' Aisha replied looking ahead at the road in front of them They still had a long way to go, and many challenges lay ahead of them.
-
(OOC - The ending post.)
The rest of the drive was uneventful.
At roughly 3:35 AM, the two vehicles pulled up to the guard post at Carson City Camp.
Everyone in the vehicles showed their IDs and the guards waved them through. Except for PFC. Reynolds, the guards simply handcuffed him and led him away.
One of the guards, a lanky Coyote yawned as she radioed Gen. Moby.
"General Moby this is Theta Post. Dr. Zanasiu and his team are heading in. We have also apprehended a certain 'PFC Christopher Reynolds'. Theta Post out," she said into the radio.
----------------------
Zachary and Alfred parked their vehicles and got out. The base was rather well lit but it was still mostly empty save for a few patrolling soldiers.
The group then entered Gen. Moby's office. There, they were surrounded by stacks of paper on Gen. Moby's desk.
"General Moby, Pelvanida has been..." Dr. Zanasiu said.
"I know, Crimson Base has destroyed Pelvanida. Though I hoped we would not have to do that, we were left with no choice," General Moby replied with a sigh.
"So what is our next course of action?" Hans asked.
"I have arranged for Sgt. Clyco's return to Canada and PFC. Reynolds will be tried by a military tribunal. As for you, I want you to continue following that convoy that was heading north. We have intel that suggests a base of operations may be set in either Washington or Oregon," General Moby then took a sip of water, "And one other thing, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police and the Nevada State Troopers will be after you and they will try to arrest you. I can try and get you free but it may take a long time. My recommendation to you is leave Nevada as soon as possible and do not return until the entire debacle is over. I will provide you with an unmarked van. Good luck."
"Understood." Dr. Zanasiu said. He then turned to everybody else in the room. "Let's go."
The entire group left the office and headed out to the parking lot.
Alfred got into his truck and started the engine.
Dr. Zanasiu got into a plain looking white van and started the engine.
Both vehicles then pulled out of the base and headed north. Soon, they will be trading the desert heat of Nevada for the temperate rainforest of Oregon and Washington.