Project: Hero 2

[scikaiju]

All appeared quiet in a forest preserve located in Indiana. But in the middle of the normally busy tourist season the woods were abnormally quiet. It was so quiet even the animals were silent. The only sign of life inside the forest was the occasional patrol car and the park ranger inside the look out towers. Outside the forest a military encampment was set up, ready to strike if the call came. Inside one particular watch tower two forest rangers were looking out. The older one was looking at the military parked outside of his forest afraid of what their weapons would do to the environment. The younger one was looking in the other direction almost transfixed. “I’m telling you I saw the Cy-Jet head fly over and land in the woods,†the younger one told his superior.

“It’s none of our business,†the older one said. “We were told our only job was to watch out for any unauthorized personal trying to hide out while they handle it. Whatever ‘it’ is.†He looked back to where the young man was looking with a look of disgust mixed with a little worry. “Just as long as that idiot keeps it away from us I’ll be perfectly fine with looking for people who aren’t there.â€

“What are you talking about Jeff, Cyberone’s a hero. How many times has he saved the city?â€

“And how much destruction did he cause along the way?â€, the older one snapped. “Now there’s more of those armored idiots out there. Before long you won’t be able to walk the street without having to worry about getting zapped.â€

The younger one dismissed it as the paranoid ranting of an old man. Jeff was from an older time as far as he was concerned growing up during the cold war and such. He on the other hand he was part of the newer generation and knew things changed forever after that first invasion. They needed guys like Cyberone and the new guys, he wasn’t blinded to that fact. Yeah there was some property damage but you had that in any war. He read enough history to know that much.

An explosion in the forest rocked their stations as instinct caused them to hold on. “What in the hell does that idiot think he’s doing?â€, the old man demanded. A tree looked like it was falling over as he was speaking.

“I think he found it,†the younger one answered, straining his eyes trying to see what was going on, totally forgetting about the binoculars hanging around his neck.

The old man, seeing how engrossed his partner was, slipped out and down the staircase a little. “I can’t believe I’m about to call another one in,†he muttered as he pulled out his cell phone. Hesitating a bit he reached into the same pocket and pulled out a piece of paper with a number on it. Dialing the number he waited for a response.

It didn’t take long for him to get one. “Watchdog hotline….â€

-----
By that fallen tree Cyberone was currently engaged with another armored foe. With a blue and black color scheme he seemed to be able to take all Cyberone could give him. Which annoyed the hell out of him. Picking up a log he swung away and it splintered on impact. The air around his armored opponent shimmered briefly as he stepped back a bit. Cyberone dropped what was left of the log popping the lasers in his forearm and blasted him again. Again his opponent shimmered as he took the shots. “Damn it,†he said keying in a secure comm. channel, “isn’t that shield losing power yet?â€

Back at the Eagle Corp. control room various technicians were scrambling as they monitored the battle. Captain Smith looked to his left at the blue skinned alien with a rebreather over his mouth going over the sensor readings as he tried to ignore the rest. At his side Jennifer Wells was busy going over the data as well, getting her strawberry blond hair out of her eyes. “The protective shield around him should have started losing power long ago,†Zac said after a bit. “By my calculation it should be under fifty percent by now.â€

“That’s a pretty strong fifty percent,†Smith muttered. “What kind of power source does that thing have?â€

“I would assume alien,†Hammond, the CEO of Eagle Corp, said from the back of the room.

“I am currently unaware of a species that has created a battery that could emit this type of energy that was small enough to fit in this particular armor,†Zac informed him.

“Maybe you should become aware!â€, Cyberone said as he ducked while a tree was being hurled at him.

“That power has to becoming from somewhere,†Jennifer said. Hitting a different comm. button she spoke into her headset, “Shadow have you found anything yet?â€

“Trees, trees and Glory Boy getting his butt kicked,†Shadow responded. The static field created by the belt he was wearing would keep the other guys’ sensors from reading him. Still he kept out of the way of the battle as best he could. He may know Cyberones’ every weakness but right now he was no match for the other one. “I’m not seeing any wires so it can’t be an outside power source. I think Glory Boy might have finally met his match.â€

“You want to bet Anderson,†Cyberone said cutting into the line. Another round of lasers just made him shimmer again. “I’m about to Final Laser his ass.â€

“Negative Cyberone,†Smith quickly cut in. “If the Final Laser doesn’t have any effect then you’ll be at a disadvantage from the power loss.â€

“Fuck,†was Cyberone only response.

Shadow was getting ready to fire a few round out of frustration himself. There had to be something he wasn’t seeing. His foot hit something and he looked down. Expecting a fallen tree limb he saw a green colored cable instead. It wasn’t attached to anything but why was it here? Putting a hand to the side of his visor he said, “Jennifer are you sure there no power station out here?â€

“Positive but I’ll check the records again,†she said. A quick check later she relied, “Like I said there no power station in the immediate area.â€

“Hold off on that no outside source theory,†he said as he followed the cable. Cyberone started pounding away at the field with his fist trying to keep the other guy rocked. He may not have had any visible weapons but with that field he didn’t need any. Shadow quickly found a satellite dish at the edge of the clearing attached to the cable. The fact it was there was strange enough but Shadow quickly realized it was moving slightly as well. Then he realized it was moving more or less when the other guy got out of its range. Testing out a hunch Shadow grabbed the dish and twisted it away form the fight. For a brief moment one of Cyberones’ fist connected with the other one face without the shimmer effect. A small chunk of his armor flew off from the impact

“Finally!â€, Cyberone celebrated. “Who’s the daddy now bitch?!â€. Shadow let go of the dish and it quickly zeroed in on the battle. Another punch bounced off the returned field. “Are you fucking kidding me?!â€

“Scratch what I said earlier,†Shadow said. “There is an outside energy source. There’s using a dish to transmit it and I’m betting there’s a receiver somewhere on his armor.â€

Hammond ran to Smith station and grabbed a microphone, “What are you waiting for? Take out the dish.â€

“Not yet,†Shadow said looking deeper into the woods.

“This is insubordination!â€, Hammond yelled.

“Somebody is feeding him that extra energy,†Smith calmly told him. “Shadow takes the dish out now and we could lose the other one. Brett can hold on long enough for Ryan to track him or them down. We can get them all at once instead of them cutting and run.â€

“And if they do that we could face this all over again,†Jennifer added. “And we might not be able to find the dish next time or they could find another way to deliver it.â€

“Would you stop being a back seat driver Hammond,†Cyberone said.

“I think hell’s starting to freeze over,†Shadow commented as he followed the cable. “I’m starting to like you Ryder.â€

“Hey it’s only natural, everybody adores me,†Cyberone commented while fired off a few more lasers.

“Well I lost that feeling pretty quick,†Shadow said.

“Well at least they’re not cussing at each other,†Jennifer said to nobody in particular.

“The day ain’t over yet darling,†Cyberone joked.

“Anderson better hope he’s right about this?â€, Hammond told Smith. “If the CBR-1 armor gets damaged because of this I’m holding you personally responsible Smith.â€

If the Captain had a response Shadow didn’t hear it. Just about everything was drowned out as a jet plane sounded like it was going to land right on top of them. Shadow looked up, as did the Cyberone and his sparring partner. Back at the watch tower the two forest rangers were staring in their direction, the younger pointing at the newcomer. With some over sized boots housing those miniature jet engines an individual clad in green and gray armor, with what looked like a weapon rack on his back, hovered over them. “I don’t think Ryder going to be fighting alone anymore,†Shadow commented.

“Who in the hell invited War Dog?â€, complained Cyberone. Back it the control center Hammond sent any aid he could get a hold of to find out just that.

A Gatling gun slid out from his weapon rack and under his right arm. Gripping the trigger he yelled, “Eat it scum bag!†Depleted uranium shells ate up the earth around Cyberone and his opponent. Cyberone quickly ran out of the firing radius as the other armored individual stood there and took the assault.

“Watch it you moron!†Cyberone yelled at him. “We’re supposed to be on the same side!â€

War Dog visible flinched as he let up on the assault, “Sorry.†Noticing the after effect around the enemy armor he stated, “Hey he’s got a force field.â€

“Thank you Captain Obvious,†Cyberone snapped. While he was concentrating on War Dog his opponent ran in and backhanded him. Cyberone crashed into a tree feeling the impact. “That was cheap,†he grunted getting to his feet.

War Dog landed repeating the word, “Sorry.â€

Shadow kept the response that came to mind to himself as he kept on tracing the cable. But he would have enjoyed seeing this guy give Ryder an aneurysm a year ago. OK he still would have enjoyed it but he had something to track. Slowing his pace he found a guard walking around by the cable not really paying attention to his surroundings. Sneaking up on his he placed a hand over his mouth and placed his right fist on his lower back and hit the trigger on his palm. The taser built into the glove shocked him for a bit before he lost consciousness. Shadow gently placed him on the ground and kept on going. After a few more yards he found a shack with an advanced looking power generator tucked away under the heavy tree cover of the canopy above them. “I found the outside power source,†he announced. Touching the visor again his vision zoomed in on a window. Several humans were arguing with each other inside. Probably about that sudden power drain a few moments ago. Then a little surprise walked past the window. “I got a group of humans with a Rigilian working with them.â€

“I knew there had to be an alien involved some how,†Hammond said looking he scored a personal victory.

“Shadow are you sure?â€, Jennifer asked.

“Short, gray, red eyes,†Shadow said. “That’s how Zac described them right.â€

“Friend Ryan is correct,†Zac confirmed.

“Now I’m cutting the cable,†Shadow said. Reaching behind him he slid one of the vibroblades out of its holder. Squeezing the handle a low hum filled the air right before he sliced the cable. Like he thought the cabin occupants started going crazy when they couldn’t figure out why the suit protective field just went down.

Cyberone noticed the field shimmer again for no apparent reason this time around. He also noticed how surprised the guy inside the armor acted as he looked himself over. Aiming the forearms laser he fired off a couple of volleys. All the shots impacted the armor. “It’s about time.†He kept the pressuring on his opponent started backing up as the lasers started frying his armor. “What are you waiting for Junior, let him have it!â€

“Right,†War Dog said. He rearmed the Gatling gun and fired away. The shells quickly ate away at the armor until he fell to the ground.â€

“Whoa don’t kill him kid!â€, Cyberone said trying to pull War Dog back.

“What?â€, he looked surprised at what he done. “Oh crap, my bad.â€

“What are you in high school?â€. The other guy started moving, but not to get up but to back away. Cyberone went up to him and pulled off the helmet. The guy inside didn’t put up a fight. In fact he tried to hide behind Cyberone as he stared wide eyed at War Dog.

“Keep that guy away from me,†he said pulling Cyberone in front of him. “He tried to fucking kill me.â€

Again War Dog said, “Sorry.â€

“Never tell the bad guys you’re sorry,†Cyberone admonished him. War Dog said it again. Inside the helmet Cyberone wore a stunned look, “How old are you?â€.

Shadow was about to make his move to get inside, at most he had to capture the Rigilain. He held up as several vans suddenly showed up. Four men in gold and blue armor piled out of each one. “Fucking A, the Corp.†Shadow relayed what he was seeing as they raided the cabin. The Corp quickly found the group he was watching. A few grabbed the humans and forced them to the ground. He saw the Rigilian press it’s back up against the window. It turned as if trying to escape. The window was shot up as bullets went flying through the alien. He had to duck behind the tree for cover. Looking back he saw it flopped against the window sill and hang there. Inside Shadow saw one of the Corp eject a clip from his rifle. A few more came outside and trashed the generator. Shadow backed up and stepped on a twig. Pressing against the tree he cursed his lack of focus as they turned around in his direction.

“What was that,†one of them said. He scanned the forest and saw nothing. He took a step foreword as if he was going to investigate further. Shadow held on to the vibroblade.

“Negative,†the other one said. “Orders were to take out the alien and his generator.â€

“What about the armor?â€

“It’s a lost cause, the hot bloods have got it now.†They went back to the others as they herded the humans into one of the vans. Shadow watched them leave wondering about that hot bloods comment.

-----
Cyberone pushed the guy he was fighting foreword. He’d go back for the Cy-Jet after they delivered this bozo to the military. Besides he was hoping to be able to lose War Dog in the shuffle. They guy wouldn’t stop talking. “I idolized you for a long time, did you know that? I have a news recording of all your victories. Like the time you took out that spaceship single handedly.â€

“The air force helped,†Cyberone reminded him.

“But they couldn’t have done anything if you didn’t figure the field frequency for the shield every time they changed it.â€

“True,†Cyberone readily agreed. “Even they tell me the planet would be up **** creek by now without me around.â€

“Oh God just shot me now,†their prisoner muttered.

“Hey,†Cyberone pushed him foreword, “no talking from the peanut gallery.â€

“So why didn’t you do that with this guy?â€

Cyberone tripped up a bit but quickly caught himself, “Damn root,†he lied to save face. Why didn’t he think of doing that? Thankfully Jen was listening in and gave him a quick cover story. “The bullets on the Cy-Jet have that function. Nobody thought we needed it on the one on one level.†War Dog started to say something else but Cyberone quickly cut him off, “Captain I have something for you. I didn’t have time to get him gift wrapped.â€

“It’s Major,†he corrected him. Cyberone didn’t pay any attention to him as he kept on walking the prisoner to some MPs. War Dog gave him a quick salute that Major returned, although a bit surprised. “Get that crap off of him and throw him into one of the trucks.â€

“It should come off easy enough,†Cyberone joked. “Junior here almost turned it into Swiss cheese. He left a whole trail on the way here.â€

“Yeah I kinda over did it,†War Dog sheepishly said as he started to rub the back of his helmet. This time the Major and Cyberone both looked at him strangely.

“Ah… this guy a friend of your Ryder?â€, the Major asked.

“Like I would ever hang out with the likes of him.â€

“Holy cown call him by his last name,†War Dog almost tripped over his over sized boots trying to get to the Major. “That is so cool.†Before anybody could say anything a reporter some how got through and yelled out for Cyberone. A few more joined him and came at them. War Dog took a step back, “Oh geez.â€

“Relax kid,†Cyberone told him, “it’s all part of the job.†That was the strange thing about this kid, he show up and do the job but he would never stay around long enough to take any of the credit. He could never figure that out. “Come on one picture isn’t going to hurt. Strike a pose of the nice camera people.†War Dog put his fist on his hips and stuck his chest out a bit. “A little too comic book.†War Dog dropped his hands and just stood there. Cyberone stepped in front of him a bit and put his fists on his hips. War Dog turned his head to look at him just as the cameramen took the picture.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
A red light flashed to life on top of the studio camera. The gentle man in front of it took a second to readjust himself in his seat before speaking, “Welcome back to Smartline. For those of you just tuning in our guest for this very special interview is Eagle Corporation C.E.O. Frank Hammond.†Hammond nodded a bit as the host turned in his seat toward him. “Now before we went to commercial we were just starting to talk about the new comers to the game, for the lack of a better term, you started with the Cyberone program. What are your feelings on the matter?â€

“Well Trevor,†he started, “we’re grateful for the help quite honestly. Cyberone can’t be everywhere as you know. Even with the aid of the military our resources can be spread a little thin at times. But in the end experience helps a lot which is something Cyberone has in spades at this point in time.â€

“And several figures have tried to match the success you’ve had with the Cyberone program. With some varying degrees of success. Can I get your impressions of two of the more prominent ones? Masterson’s War Dog and Heartland Technologies Corp.â€

“I’ve known Steve Masterson for a while. We’ve been rivals for a few years now so I expected him to jump on the bandwagon, so to speak. As for War Dog, I have to repeat Brett’s impression of him. He seems like a good intentioned person but seems a little reckless.†Hammond chuckled a bit, “Of course they said the same thing about Cyberone and look what happened there. So there’s some hope for him.â€

“And the Corp?†the host asked.

Hammond crossed his arms and thought about it for a bit. “Honestly I never even heard of Heartland Technologies before their Corp showed up. The fact they were able to mass produce so many suits of armor almost over night without anybody noticing… I’m impressed. As for the Corp themselves…,†he had a somewhat disgusted look on his face. “I not sure where they’re getting their wearers from but some of their tactics leave a little to be desired in my opinion. Now in any battle there going to be some civilian casualties. That’s a lesson we learned early on, no matter how well you prepare for the conflict. But these Corp members, they don’t seem to care. Not that I can tell.â€

The host turned his head to the side and put a finger to his earpiece while he talked. Looking at somebody off camera he went, “Are you sure?†Turning his attention back to his guest he said, “I apologize for the interruption Mr. Hammond and I assure you this was not planned in any way. But we have the head of Heartland Technologies on the line and he is demanding airtime.â€

Hammond visibly bristled for a moment, “No problem at all Trevor. I was an up and comer once myself. I know how hard it is to get yourself noticed. Let him have his time.â€

After a few moments to patch the call into the system a stage hand gave the thumbs up. On the television monitor a picture of a blond haired blue eye male in a smart business suit appeared. “Hello, am I talking to Thomas Richard Harrison?â€

“Yes you are,†he replied, he sounded almost emotionless. “I must thank Frank Hammond’s ‘generosity’ in sharing his spotlight. I know how much he and those working for him love to be in it.â€

The host coughed, “I’m assuming you wanted to add something to Mr. Hammond statement about your company. Perhaps you can give us some insight about how you choose the individuals for you armor program.â€

“My men are soldiers simple as that,†Harrison answered. “And they act like soldiers when in battle. Hammond should be familiar with the concept. His own Brett Ryder was in the army himself before he started wearing his armor.†He added as a shot, “Before the limelight watered him down that is.â€

“Cyberone is a lot of things,†Hammond told him, “but watered down is not one of them.â€

“Then why do I see his face just about every where,†Harrison shot back. “Action figures, lunch boxes, bed sheets. How do you sleep at night marketing a machine of war to little children? Especially one that damages their home and workplace of their parents every times he takes on an alien threat.â€

“Eagle Corp. takes our responsibility to the public very seriously,†Hammond said keeping his voice even. “Half the profit of those things you’ve mention goes into rebuilding what was destroyed or damaged. And we help with the placement of those who lost there homes. What has Heartland Technologies done after the Corp leaves an area?â€

“How many law suits did it take for you to part with half of the profits Hammond,†Harrison taunted.

“Now listen here,†Hammond voice started rising.

The host quickly cut in before it could go any further, “I do believe our time is up. I like to thank Frank Hammond for going on. I also like to thank Thomas Richard Harrison for calling in and keeping the production staff on its toes. And I would like to thank all of you for watching Smartline tonight. Tune in again tomorrow night were we will be talking about all the events that have transpired in the past week. Thank you and good night.â€

-----
“Who does that son of bitch think he is?â€, Hammond bellowed. He was still smarting about Harrison stealing some of his air time the night before. Everybody else in the board room just sat there and let him get it out of his system. They‘ve seen it enough now to know better than to try to reason with him. Especially since the, to use his words, “imitators†started coming out of the woodworks and cutting into the company’s profit margin. “Trying to grab some attention for himself by attacking me. Of all the nerve.â€

A dark haired man sitting at the end of the conference table wearing jeans and a t-shirt said, “You’re the one who agreed to let him on.†Jennifer looked at him like he had a death wish. Wearing some designer clothes a blond haired man with his feet on the table stifled a smirk.

“Shut up Anderson,†Hammond snapped.

“You just had to go for it didn’t you?â€, the blond man said. He just shrugged his shoulder in response.

“Ryan does have a point,†Hammond assistant Martha spoke up. “You had to have known he would have chosen that opportunity to throw some mud at the Cyberone program.†She put a report down on the table, “In fact his war machine comment alone started the protest at how Brett handles the situation he’s in again.â€

Dropping his feet to the floor he Brett said, “Again with the soccer moms. I swear to God, Nerf makes what’s basically a sniper rifle and a bazooka and they focus on me. They haven’t even touched War Dog yet and he’s got weapon out the ass.â€

“I thought you loved being the center of attention Glory Boy,†Ryan teased.

“I thought you loved being the center of attention,†Brett repeated in a mocking tone.

“Boys,†Jennifer quickly admonished them. She had been on the job as their program manager for a year and a half now, and yet this was still the hardest part of the job. At least she was able to stop them from trying to beat the crap out of each other every other week, so her job was a little easier. Turning her attention back to Hammond she asked, “What do we know about this War Dog anyway? I’ve been having a hard time getting any type of info on him.â€

“Masterson’s company was one of our competitors when the Pentagon was taking bids to build battle armor for the troops,†Martha answered for him. “His company War Dog armor was his answer to the CBR-1.†She pulled up an image and an old schematic of the armor. “His big selling points were the suit flight capabilities and the weapon rack on the back. They touted how customizable the weapon rack was, that it could be fitted with mission specific weaponry. As I recall it was quickly disqualified as a candidate when the jet boots failed on a regular basis. They were giving a chance to reoffer the armor if they could fix that particular problem but that was the last we heard of it until recently.â€

“It doesn’t look like it’s a problem any more,†Ryan commented.

“I still like to know how he walks in those things,†Brett thought more or less out loud.

“But we still don’t know who he is,†Jennifer said. “They’re more secretive of that than they are the armor schematics. I didn’t even see the armor during that news conference this morning where he was pretty much taking credit for War Dog getting in the final shot.â€

“He assisted in the take down,†Brett quickly said.

“Right,†Hammond agreed. “Like I said last night Brett has the most experience in these matters so naturally he was directing the battle.†Ryan rolled his eyes but held his tongue. “But it still doesn’t explain why they’re keeping War Dog identity a secret. I can’t find a board member over there who’s willing to talk.â€

“Then you’re not looking in the right place,†Captain Smith said as he entered the conference room, “or asking the right people. Martha could you put this in the projector for me?â€, he handed her an plain envelope and headed for the screen. “I’d been here sooner but I had a meeting with a colleague who had a small hand in the War Dog build.†After a few moments he announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, meet the pilot for the War Dog armor.†An image flashed up showing a personal file, confidential plastered over it.

“Holy **** he is still in high school,†Ryan exclaimed as he sat up right. The image had a photo of a young man with circled rimmed glasses. Everybody had to admit he looked a bit young.

“Junior college actually,†Smith corrected him, “according to everything I was able to find on him. This is one Ricky Taylor. He was originally employed as an intern for Masterson’s, actually I believe he was a gopher for the science lab where they were constructing the armor. Much like us they held various test to find somebody suitable to be the test pilot. From what my contact was able to tell me after hours he would sneak in and run the test on himself for kicks, until he was caught. He was initially fired until they saw his test results. Masterson personally rehired him to be the pilot for the armor.â€

“Any idea why he shying away from the lime light?â€, Hammond asked.

“Apparently he’s uncomfortable,†he answered. “From what my contact is telling me he using some of his connections to get into the various hot spots around the city, but outside of that he not drawing any attention to himself.â€

Ryan leaned in a bit to read what he could of the file, “Looks like he’s a small town boy in the big city.â€

“Well that explains a lot,†Brett snorted.

“Haven’t been to a lot of small towns have you?â€, Ryan asked.

“Why would I?â€, Brett asked actually looking confused. Ryan opened his mouth but Jen coughed. Ryan shook his head and leaned back in his chair.

Instead he asked, “How about these Corp guys? You have contacts in there?â€

Smith shook his head in the negative, “For some reason Zac took an interest in them. I think he said something about the armor design looking familiar.â€

“So Heartland Tech has an alien working for them too?â€, Ryan speculated.

“Everybody wants to get in on our action,†Brett said with a smile.

“It’s a possibility,†Smith said to Ryan. “I’m more than willing to differ to Zac’s judgment in this case. If that is the case we might have to do a little more checking into Heartland Technology.â€

“We better find out something soon,†Hammond said. “Nobody pops up over night like they did. Nobody I know of can find a record of them anywhere that’s older than a couple of months. From what I can tell that armor looks advanced and advanced is expensive. The money had to have come from somewhere.†For once everybody agreed with him.

-----
Jennifer put up some files she was reading. It had been a long day so far and it wasn’t even lunch yet. At times she still couldn’t believe she had this job. Of course when she first hired she had no idea about the programs little secret, Ryan. It was a huge shock but she quickly got over it and readjusted quite nicely in her opinion. There were times she wanted to tell somebody random in the streets what she knew, but that wouldn’t have been fair to either Ryan or Brett. It took her a long time to get them where they are now and she wasn’t about to blow it.

Hearing a knock she looked up to see Brett let himself into her office. That was something else she quickly gotten used to. Standing in front of her desk with a smile on his face he asked, “Hey Jen, anything new since this morning.â€

Knowing where this was going she quickly took the conversation somewhere else. “The Tonight Show called again. They still want you on as the first guest for the new show.â€

“Yeah Hammond told me a bit ago, he’s apparently playing hardball. It does get a bit boring you know.†She didn’t but she just nodded. He sat on the edge of her desk. And here it comes. “You know I’m more or less free tonight and I have permanent reservation to the hottest restaurant in town. And I really don’t like eating alone.â€

She had to smile, “Do you have any idea how many times you’ve brought that up.â€

“I’m going to keep bringing it up until you say yes.†She laughed a bit as she headed for the door. Brett went with her. Walking beside her he asked, “I don’t get it, you were interested when you first got here. You even went to one of my dinner parties. Tell me one reason why we can’t have dinner tonight. You and I would make a great coupleâ€

“Well,†she began, “there is that new rule forbidding coworkers from dating or seeing each other socially. I believe it’s called the ‘Ryder rule’.â€

“Oh come on,†he protested. “One woman took one thing I said the wrong way and she blew it all out of proportion. I’m telling you her lawyer brother put her up to it. I never trusted him but would anybody listen to me?â€

“Sorry Brett but the rules are the rules,†she said. Pressing the call button on the closest elevator she told him, “I’m sure we would have had a wonderful time. But we do have to keep up appearances, we don’t want people to think you’re trying to get around the rules. Think of your image.†The doors opened and she got in.

“You’re breaking my heart here, you know that?†he said as the elevators door closed. Blowing out a breath she hit button to a floor four levels below her and waited until she could get out. Walking the hallways she reached a door to an empty office. Trying hard to look like she wasn’t looking around to see if anybody was watching her Jennifer entered the office and quickly closed the door behind her.

“You’re late.†She jumped despite knowing he’d be there. Ryan leaned against the wall with his arms crossed wearing a smirk on his face.

“I hate it when you do that,†she told him.

“Just making sure my sneaking skills are up to snuff,†he said. Walking up to her he put his hands on her hips on pulled her close. “As the program manager you should be worried about things like that.â€

“Oh it’s on the list,†she said wrapping her arms around his neck, “it’s just not a high priority at the moment.†He leaned his head down and kissed her and she ate it up. She had been looking forward to this the whole day. He backed her up to the desk, picked her up sat her on top of it. As he started kissing her neck she said, “I would have been her sooner but Brett cornered me in my office. I had to think fast to get way from him. I swear there are times I don’t think he can take a hint.â€

Ryan pulled away a little and held up a finger, “Could we not talk about Ryder right now.â€

“I’m sorry,†she cooed. She wrapped her legs around him to pull him closer, “You’d rather be thinking ‘ride her’ right about now.â€

“That was a little dirty.†He started smiling as she started to lie down on the desk, “I think I like it.â€

-----
Zac knew there was a meeting happening right about now, but he had to take this call. Ever since this Corp showed up he had been tracking down any image he could find of them. There was something about the armor design that nagged at him. He went so far as to send those images back to his home planet. He walked around his room impatiently waiting for a response. On his desk a special computer came to life and he quickly sat in front of it. In a few moments another of his species was looking at him. “Greetings Friend Sta.â€

Waiting a few moments for the message to be delivered Sta eventually replied, “Greetings Friend Zac.â€

“Did the armor images I sent you correspond with any known species in our database?â€

“A little too well,†Sta answered. “Several species use a similar design.â€

Almost afraid to ask Zac went, “Are any of them currently around Earth.â€

“A few,†his compatriot replied. “Without further data it is hard to discover which one may have made contact with the humans.â€

“Friend Ryan did mention to me recently that he overheard one of them say ‘the hot bloods’ the last time he saw them.â€

Sta looked a little stunned, “Really? It could mean a cold blooded species is involved.†He watched as the delayed image of Sta went over something. “If this report is correct the Scazarians might be the ones responsible. Several of their ships have been seen in that sector recently.â€

Zac brow furrowed in confusion, “That makes no sense. The Scarzarians are a war like species who view every other race to be below them. Why would they help the humans?â€

Sta shook his head, “Unknown at this time. This is all speculation given the current data. Did Ryan Anderson say he overheard anything else?â€

“Not to me,†Zac answered, “but I have the report for the mission right here.†He read it until he found something, “According to this one of the individual in the Corp armor mention that their mission was to eliminate the Rigilian agent and his equipment.â€

“Interesting,†Sta replied. “Again this is just speculation, but if the Scarzarians are involved they may be trying to eliminate any potential threat before their conquest can begin. Allying themselves with a human organization in secret under the pretense of being helpful. If this is the case I suggest that you should be careful Friend Zac. If they recognize any on our technology in the CBR-1 armor they may target you and the humans you work with.â€

“I am aware of that Friend Sta but I am thankful for your concern. Although to be honest I hope your speculation is wrong.â€

“As do I Friend Zac. Headquarters out.â€

“Earth station out.†The image faded away and Zac was alone with his thoughts, and his fears.

-----
Brett sat in his private booth at that restaurant he tried to convince Jen to come to, he wasn’t alone though. He ended up calling this model he knew and had her invite some of her friends come join him. And to be honest he was enjoying their company, and he already had an idea for a couple for them later tonight. But for some reason he couldn’t get his mind off of Jen. He didn’t see what the problem was. He nailed a couple of secretaries after the stupid rule went into effect and his image didn’t suffer for it. Brett was starting to think she wasn’t the type to mix business with pleasure, her loss then. But damn if that didn’t make him want her more. Maybe she’d agree to a business dinner or something if she was so worried about his image.

“What’s wrong baby?†his model friend spoke up. “You’ve hardly said anything all night.â€

“Nothing important babe,†He said returning his attention to her and the others. “Just some stupid stuff back at the office, you know how it is. Nothing to worry your pretty little heads over.â€

“Is there another invasion coming?â€, on asked looking a little nervous.

“If there was one coming I wouldn’t be here,†he assured her. Zac was saying something earlier about some Scar-somethings but wasn’t sure if it was them or not. It wasn’t like he couldn’t handle it if they did come. “I’d be back at Eagle Corp. getting suited up as we speak.â€

“Does that take long?â€

“Oh, we got it down to a science by now,†Brett said. “We’re breaking our previous record every time I suit up, and that includes me putting on the under suit.â€

“Which leaves hardly anything to the imagination,†his model friend smirked. Pictures of him in the under suit got leaked after he been on the job for a few months. Hammond had a **** fit that same day.

Smiling slyly he said, “Is it my fault it highlights some of my best physical features.†He reached over to put an arm around her. She snuggled in to be closer to him. Their waiter walked by and left a bottle of Champaign, complements of the house of course. Brett sighed inside, Jen didn’t know what she was missing.

He looked over at the entrance just as some commotion was starting. He saw a young kid in circle rimmed glasses having some words with the host. “Excuse me a second babe,†he said as he got out of the booth. He greeted some people he knew briefly as he made his way over.

“I’m sorry sir,†the host said with a bit of attitude, “but we do not have a reservation for a Ricky Taylor.â€

“Why don’t you check again,†Ricky said. He was calm but there was some irritation in his eyes. “I made the reservation weeks ago.â€

The host looked down and right back up at him, “I’m sorry sir but I’m not seeing, perhaps it was for another night.â€

“You barely looked at the page,†Ricky protested.

“Sir you are making a scene.â€

“Peter,†Brett quickly got involved and stood next to the host, “why are you detaining my guest?â€

The host looked surprised, “He’s your guest Mr. Ryder?â€

“Of course he is, I know he said he made his own reservation but he is in my dinner party.â€

“My dearest apologies Mr. Taylor,†Peter said as he quickly ushered him inside the dining room. “If you had just said you were with Mr. Ryder I would have escorted you to his table immediately.â€

“It’s ok Peter,†Brett said and stuffed a tip into his pocket, “You’re a busy man I’ll show him where it is. Come on Ricky the ladies are this way.â€

After a few feet in Ricky asked, “Why are you doing this?â€

“Because I hear you’re a real dog in a war,†Brett said with a knowing grin. Ricky stopped and quickly tried to deny everything. Brett simply said, “I work with the military, they know everything man. Besides you look like a guy who enjoys a good time, I know some ladies right over there,†he pointed toward his table, “who definitely know how to have a good time.â€

“You sure it won’t be too comic book,†Ricky said with a bit of an edge. He was still a little miffed about their previous encounter.

“Just a little friendly ribbing between competitors,†Brett quickly told him. “No harm no foul.â€

“Do you really see us as competitors?â€, Ricky asked looking a little awed.

“Well we’re not enemies and we’re not friends yet so what else are we?â€, Brett asked. “But who said we can’t enjoy a little friendly dinner with some lovely ladies.â€

“You called me a moron,†he reminded him.

“It was in the heat of the battle,†Brett explained it away. “You know how it is, emotions are running high and you’re just running on instinct. God you would not believe how many times I called the things I’ve been fighting a fucktard.†Brett had to drag him to the table as the got closer. The kid went red faced almost immediately as soon as he saw them. “Ladies, let me introduce my good friend Ricky Taylor, I think you gals know him as War Dog.â€

“What are you doing?†he hissed, panic flashing in his eyes.

“Hey you got to c out of that armor sometime,†Brett told him. “Come on sit. Eat, drink and be merry as they say.â€

A couple of the ladies gravitated toward Ricky, who looked really uncomfortable. Brett was going to make this kid loosen up if it killed him, the kid not him of course. “So your War Dog?â€, one of them asked.

“Ye… yeah,†he stammered.

“That is so awesome. Do you have any war stories like Brett does?â€

“I… I haven’t been out that long,†he said.

“The kids just being modest,†Brett said. “We’ve all seen him in action on the news. He’s pretty good. Not as good as me of course but he’s still pretty good.†Ricky blushed even more. “Come on kid tells what it’s like from your perspective.â€

“Honestly, I don’t know how you do it,†Ricky told him. “I’ve seen you in action so many times that when I first got out there I was nervous as hell. Even now I’m not sure how you make it look so easy.â€

“I got a really good support staff,†Brett told him. “I couldn’t do half the stuff I do with them backing me up. The suit is great an all, but I’m still human. As hard as it is to believe.â€

“And you have those army guys backing you up,†his model friend said.

“All part of the support staff babe,†he said. Ricky just nodded silently. Brett was trying to figure out how many drinks it was going to take before the kid really let loose. Honestly the kid looked like he’d be a fun drunk once you got a few into him.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
In a very stark office consisting of nothing more than a desk and some chairs, Thomas Richard Harrison sat behind it watching the news on the wall monitor while slowly twisting the ring on his finger. The only bit of decoration was the birdcage right beside him. His assistant stood behind him waiting, occasionally glancing at her painted fingernails out of boredom. After the news report was over the screen faded to black. Harrison reached into the birdcage and gently took a hold of the canary inside it. “Progress report,†he demanded.

“The security offers have been sent out, just like you requested,†she answered. “So far only two have actually hired us. Mid…â€

“I don’t care who hired us,†Harrison said. He got up and gently started stroking the canary’s yellow head. “The fact they did is enough. Although I suppose I have to make… what the word I’m looking for?â€

“Nice,†she responded, “I believe.â€

“Yes,†he almost hissed. “I have to play ‘nice’ with them now. How revolting.†The canary chirped happily in his hands as he walked around the room. “But I suppose I have too, I gain the trust of the initial clients then more will follow. I believe word of mouth is the correct phrase.â€

“Perhaps,†his assistant said. “Unfortunately Hammond does have a point, the Corp are a little violent for our own good. I had to hire an outside law firm to take care of the lawsuits that popped up against us already.â€

“Lawsuits,†Harrison spat. “The word makes me sick.â€

“It is the way of this particular world I’m afraid.â€

“Don’t remind me,†Harrison looked at her. “Inform the troops to tone down the violence if they can. The fewer human casualties the better I suppose.†Showing a little emotion by smirking a little he added, “I was young once myself. I know those urges are a little hard to suppress when you’re in the thick of it.â€

“And you were magnificent.†His assistant said. “If I may be so bold.â€

“You and only you my dear,†he told her. “What you been able to get on the CBR-1 armor?â€

“Nothing I’m afraid. Our best computer hackers say their security system is out of this world. They’ve never seen an encryption program this complex.â€

“I bet it is,†Harrison smirked again stroking the bird. “I knew there was something fishy about that organization the moment I laid eyes on it. World Inc. has a secret there are guarding with their lives. Why else would they distract people by outing their pilot and glorifying him like they have?â€

“They’re also extremely picky about who they hire and let in,†she said. “We tried several times to get a spy inside the corporation. Every time they found something they didn’t like and sent our man on his way.â€

“Of course,†Harrison said. “With whatever secret they are trying to keep they are not going to hire anybody off the street. No, anybody can see the wrong thing and talk. They’re careful, I can almost respect that. But I want that secret discovered and I want it neutralized.†With one twist he turned the canary head around and killed it. He popped it in his mouth while it was still warm and swallowed it whole, twisting his head a bit to get it down.

“You still kill your food,†his assistant smiled. Anybody else would be dead the moment those words came out of their mouth. But she had been loyal to him for years so he let her get away with most things.

“I never liked how they struggle on the way down,†he told her. “It’s a very unpleasant feeling and somewhat undignified, especially at my age.â€

-----
The morning test went as usual. Brett still tried to get Jennifer to go out with him, despite Hammond telling him to lay low after the spin control he and his assistants did all morning after Brett decided to out War Dog to a couple of his lady “friendsâ€. “Just helping him get the exposure I know he wants,†was his only explanation. Actually it was one of the few times anybody seen Hammond chew him out in front of everybody. It was a good thing Ryan wasn’t there though he’d be looking for some popcorn. But Brett wasn’t fazed at the tongue lashing. In fact he acted like nothing happened at all.

Despite the fact he was sore he missed it Ryan was staying on schedule. He finished off the last few rounds of the weapon test on the range before taking off his ear protection. As usual he was right on the money. Taking a closer look at the target as it come toward them she remarked, “That one of your best scores on the firing range.â€

“I think that deserves a little reward, don’t you?â€, he said.

Knowing where he was going Jennifer told him, “This place has no locks and somebody could walk in.â€

“I was talking about a kiss,†Ryan said. “Where’s your mind at?â€

“The same place yours was until I made you think fast,†she told him. Ryan sighed a bit. It was harder than he thought it was going be to keep their relationship quiet for as long as they have. They had to be careful how they addressed and acted around each other when in public, and not make it look too fake in the process. It wasn’t until they were alone that either of them felt really comfortable. She hated it too but it was the price they had to pay to keep it a secret. “But I can make you dinner tonight and we can go from there.â€

“That’s a start,†Ryan grinned. Just like Jennifer warned him of the doors opened and somebody walked into the testing range. Of course it had to be glory boy. “What are you doing down here Ryder?â€

“I wanted to see how the lower half did things,†Brett told him. “I personally can’t see why the lovely lady here spends so much time around you when I’m around to brighten things up.â€

Several retorts came to mind. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Jennifer do a slight hand slashing motion, her cue to drop it. Ryan had a better idea than get into it verbally with Ryder. “It’s a good thing you’re here, I was about to do the last test for a new weapon I got. Is the special target ready?â€

Almost dropping the pad she was holding Jennifer said, “I don’t think now is…â€

“Drop the target.†Ryan held up one of his gun and ejected the clip. Picking one up with some red tipped bullets he slammed it in the gun. Jennifer sighed loudly and hit a button on the wall. At the far end of the range a gray metal slab dropped from the ceiling.

Brett looked at it with mild surprise, “Isn’t that the stuff my armor made out of?â€

Keeping his eyes on Brett Ryan pointed the gun at the slab and fired three times. Brett recoiled in shock as three holes now decorated the slab hanging in the range. Then Ryan answered, “Yes.â€

Composing himself a bit Brett asked, “You have a bullet that can pierce my armor?†Ryan only answer was a wide grin. “My god how many fucking ways to you need?â€

“As many as it takes Glory Boy,†Ryan told him without missing a beat.

“Hammond had the development of that bullet green lighted a couple of weeks ago,†Jennifer informed him. “Right after the Corp started to get a little too big according to him. He wants to be ready in case we have to take them on, or they come after us.â€

“I didn’t realize he was that worried about them,†Brett said. “Besides it’s nothing I can’t handle if it comes to that. That first bunch of bozos were basically armored too and I ran them off no problem.â€

“Again with the first attack,†Ryan muttered.

“Don’t hate because I’m that damn good,†Brett said. Shoving his hands into his pocket and walking away he said, “Just because you assist in my takedowns doesn’t mean you can let it go your head.â€

“What!â€, Ryan started to go after him but Jennifer quickly got in front of him. After they were alone again he calmed down a bit, “I think I like him better when he called me the hack.â€

“Well you did deserve that last shot,†Jennifer told him. “What in the hell possessed you to show him the bullet?â€

“He was going to find out sooner or later,†Ryan said. “Besides this way I can see his reaction first hand.†He knew it was a mistake to show he enjoyed that but he did it any way.

“Just when I think I’m making some headway,†Jennifer said. “Well I’ll still make you dinner,†she said as she left herself, “but I’m not too sure about the other stuff now.â€

Alone Ryan spoke to himself,†You just had to let it show, didn’t you?â€. He was still going to blame this on Glory Boy though.

-----
The orbital sensor net got a hit as a ship entered the atmosphere. Ground stations quickly located the craft as they tried to predict where it was going to land. They watched as a smaller craft separated from it and headed for the planet as the larger one exited back into space. They scrambled the jets as they realized the smaller crafts destination. Where they all seem to go for some reason… Chicago. Eagle Corp. got the call despite the fact they were tracking things themselves. The experience Hammond was bragging about kicked in almost immediately as everyone went to where they were assigned to in these situations. In his locker room Ryan was suited up and grabbing his gear as he holstered his guns, vibroblades and some throwing knives. A couple of floors above him Ryan was dressed in his dark blue under suit of his armor as he stood between the poles. The ceiling above him opened up and various gray pieces of his armor were lowered into position. “Neural receptors are green,†a tech announced.

“Proceeding with armor attachment,†announced another. The armor started to cover his feet, shins and leg, “Lower armor in position and green.†Brett reached into the metal gloves as the rest surrounded his arms, “Arm armor and weaponry in position and green.†The chest pieces were next, “Torso armor in position and green.†His helmet opened a bit as it lowered over his head and closed back up, â€Head armor and sensors are green†A few seconds later she announced, “Life support, computer and weapon systems are green. The CBR-1 is ready to activate.â€

“Activating now,†the armor hissed slightly as it sealed itself shut. Cyberone exited through a side door and into the adjoining hanger where the Cy-Jet was housed. The hanger door opened as he got on the Cy-Jet. “The area is clear. You have permission to launch the CY-Jet.â€

“Acknowledged,†Cyberone announced. “Cy-Jet is launching. Let’s see those posers top this one.†The Cy-Jet shot out of the hanger and toward the predicted landing site. On the street below Shadow came out of an alley a couple of blacks away from the Eagle Corp. building from a secret entrance and headed for the same place.

The craft was a four legged walker type of vehicle witch lumbered down the street as it gun bays took aim at the building surrounding it like the proverbial fish in barrel. A swiveling turret on it’s back doing the most damage so far. Cyberone put the Cy-Jet in hover as he realized he wasn’t the first one here. “How did War Dog get here so fast?â€

“Masterson’s company a half a block away from the target area,†Hammond explained over the link. “I’d be surprised if War Dog wasn’t out there now.â€

“Try and find out what their equip time is, I suddenly want to beat it,†Cyberone told them. Switching on the helmet external speaker he shouted, “Hey Dog need some help?†He looked up at him at the same time the walker fired a round his direction. War Dog went flying backwards and into a parked delivery truck as part of the crowd went scrambling out of the way. Above it all Cyberone flinched a bit inside his helmet but he still snickered a bit when he said, “My bad.â€

War Dog got behind the delivery truck as the turret lasers and a couple of the front lasers continued to pound on it, “Thanks a lot!â€

“Don’t get your underoos in bunch junior,†Cyberone told him. The turret started to target him and he quickly have to maneuver the Cy-Jet out of the way. “Hey, we’re trying to have a conversation here!†He dodged and weaved in between the blast as War Dog came out from behind cover. A bazooka looking weapon rested itself on his shoulder. He took aim and fired as a shell exploded against it’s hull. The walker started firing at him again as Cyberone circled the area. He started firing to give War Dog a chance to get back under cover. Broadcasting over several channel and hoping one of them where War Dogs channel he asked, “Ricky how many of those shells do you have.â€

“I was packed with four,†War Dog replied, “so three now.†Lowering the bazooka a bit the shell ejected out of the chamber. Holding it straight up a new was loaded. “Can you give me a little room to get off another shot?â€

“Aim for an ankle or a knee,†Cyberone commanded.

“Why? Shouldn’t I take out a power junction or something?â€

“Those things are shielded out the wazoo. Trust me I know first hand… WHOA!†a large barrage came at him, a few scorching the Cy-Jet hull. “Look we take out a limb that thing loses mobility and possibly the fucking turret losing some of its’ firing range. It’s a good thing.â€

Close by and out of sight Shadow commented, “Glory Boy’s actually thinking out there? I don’t believe it.†He looked up at rooftops and saw a glint off of something. Then it quickly disappeared in the next moment. “This is Shadow, I think I found something I’m going to investigate.â€

“Acknowledged Shadow,†Jennifer replied.

Locating a fire escape he keyed into the private channel before climbing up it, “I know one of you will figure this out sooner or later but that thing seems to have a hard time hitting a moving aerial target.â€

“I knew you were good for something Anderson.†He swung around and fired back at the walker, “War Dog get air born!â€

“You told me to take out the legs!â€

“I’m calling an audible! Get in the air we can take out the turret from above.†Keeping the walker attention he gave War Dog the time to activate the jet boots and get in the air. Cyberone dove in and pulled away while War Dog barely moved form where he was. “What are you doing? Move around so you’re harder to hit.â€

“I’m trying to minimize the property damage.â€

“I was never that naive,†he muttered. “That thing causing property damage with every step. A little more is not going to hurt.â€

“If you say so,†War Dog sounded unsure. In his earpiece Masterson was screaming something else at him. He switched over to the Gatling gun thinking he would have to worry less about the recoil and opened fire. The turret quickly zeroed in on him. “Uh-oh.â€

Behind the walker Cyberone got in position and locked onto the turret. Behind him tree panels opened up, one directly behind and two under him, and three emitter rose out of their compartment. The nose of the Cy-Jet opened up revealing a crystal panel. The emitters charged up and War Dog saw what was coming and got out of there as the turret keeping its’ guns on him. “Firing Tri-laser,†Cyberone announced. The emitters each shot a beam into the panel which magnified the energy and unleashed it at the turret. It exploded on impact as the top section of the walker started sparking as well as various other areas. War Dog landed a few yards away and Cyberone landed the Cy-Jet by him. Getting out he announced, “Now that’s how you do it junior.â€

“Why didn’t you just hit the walker with it?â€

Again Jen gave him a fast answer, “Because we want to take them alive if possible. There’s a real big push on finding out why we’re getting attacked so much.†Looking at the still standing walker he muttered to himself, “Now how exactly are supposed to get them out of there?â€

Above them on the rooftops a green skinned individual leaned over slightly, an alien sniper rifle in his hands. He had Cyberone helmet zeroed in his sight. Their duty was to take the city off guard and get the armored heroes’ attention. But he was given an extra special assignment. It was his duty to eliminate the one that foiled their first invasion, the one the human filth called Cyberone. They had lost honor because of this particular human and he took great joy in accepting the assignment. Taking a moment to enjoy this he said in broken English, “Die… Cy… ber…one.†He was close to pulling the trigger went he felt something metal against the back of his head.

“I know he’s a dick but I can’t let you do that,†A human voice said. He quickly turned around to catch the human by surprise. He saw a glimpse of a human dressed in black right before his face was smashed into the roof and the human kneeled on top of him. “Why do they always try that? I located a Lizarian on the rooftops and apprehended him. Chances are there are more in the vehicle.â€

“Acknowledged Shadow,†Jennifer said. “We’re letting the proper channels know now.â€

“The Lizarians again?â€, Smith commented. “How many times have they tried to start crap so far?â€

“This would make the third time Captain Smith,†Zac answered. “This is troubling to say the least. My government had them sign a peace treaty to not invade this planet again the last time. I must get this to them immediately.â€

“You do that Zac, and you might want to tell them to expect some prisoners to take off our hands as proof.â€

The walker still had enough power to move foreword slowly and a couple of the side gun bays in the rear were unaffected by the previous surge when the turret went up. Cyberone and War Dog backed up. Rearming the bazooka War Dog fired all three remaining shells at a knee junction. It hampered the walker but it was still moving foreword. “I thought you said that would work!â€

“I didn’t tell you to waste them all on the same knee!†Cyberone snapped back. He was getting frustrated that should have worked. Who was putting the armor on this thing any way? “Alright time to crack this fucker open.†Putting his arms up to his chest and fist pointed to the sky he started to reroute all available power. Four panels on his gauntlets opened up and arcs of energy started to flow between them. Swinging his arm around and to his side he targeted the cockpit of the walker. With a yell he pointed his arms foreword as the energy crackled as it became a huge laser beam emitting from his arms. It hit the cockpit dead center and went out the back of the roof. Cyberone arms dropped as the armor power temporarily drained to the red levels before slowly stabilizing. The walker stopped as smoked poured from it the new opening. A door by the hole opened up and a Lizarian came out with his hands over his head. War Dog quickly covered him with the Gatling gun. Cyberone turned toward the remaining crowd and just said pumped his fist, “Who’s the heroes?â€

“Did he just say ‘who’s the heroes?’,†Shadow asked. “How much drinking did he do before this?â€

The crowd erupted in some cheers as Cyberone went back to War Dog. “The Final Laser,†he said almost sounding excited. “That was so freaking cool.â€

“It is pretty cool isn’t it?†He popped his forearm laser, even though he only had enough power for a handful of shots until he could get a recharge. Without any resistance they came out one by one. “Now all we have to do is secure these guys until the boys in green get here.†Over the private channel Shadow gave him a heads up that the Corp vans were coming. The crowd had to move a bit to avoid getting hit as they screeched to a halt. The Corp jumped out of the van with their weapons drawn toward the Lizarians. “You’re a little late for the party guys,†Cyberone joked. They didn’t lower their weapons.

“We have orders to eliminate the alien threat and their vehicle,†the one in the apparent lead told him. “Now step out the way.â€

“No can do,†Cyberone told him. “These guys just became prisoners of the United States military and their vehicle is now officially government property. So you just can’t off them in the middle of the streetâ€

“We’ll see about that,†he said dangerously. “Prepare to open fire!â€, he ordered. Almost as one he and his men aimed at the Lizarians. Cyberone aimed both gauntlet lasers at them as War Dog swung his Gatling gun toward the Corp.

“I guess you guys never heard of due process?â€, War Dog commented.

Harrison spoke into their helmets, “Stand down. We don’t need this confrontation now. Besides they did the job they were hired for.â€

“Rodger,†the leader replied. “Return to headquarters.†The slowly backed off and reentered their vans and drove off sending the crowd running for cover again.

Cyberone kept his sensors on them just in case they tried anything. “We got to get these guys under cover fast just in case.â€

“We can use my support truck for the moment,†War Dog said pointing down the street. A green and blue colored trailer came down the street and toward them. “We can guard them in there no problem. If you think it’s a good idea that is?â€

“You got a support truck?â€, Cyberone said in disbelief as he walked toward the oncoming vehicle. “I want a support truck.â€

“You have an entire building supporting you Glory Boy,†Shadow reminded him.

“That’s not the point.â€

Jen cut into the line, “Well maybe if you’re good Santa Hammond will get you one for Christmas.â€

“Please don’t give him any ideas,†Smith told her while he glanced back at Hammond, who had that look in his eye. “I got Generals tearing me a new one just about weekly about the program budget as it is.â€

Turning down the comm. chatter in his ear Cyberone looked around and saw a couple of extra police officers in the area trying to keep back the crowd. “Hey you guys give us a hand getting these green guys into that truck coming up.†A couple of them looked apprehensive as the came foreword with their guns drawn. “Easy guys they’re not going to bit. I don’t think,†he said while looking at the Lizarians. “You got some extra muzzles handy right?â€

“Alright you posers into the truck,†War Dog ordered the would be invaders. With their hands on their heads they were patted down by the police and the crew in the truck before being herded in. The techs guided them in as far inside as they could and not have them be in the way or near any equipment. As the police kept their guns on the aliens a tech said it was time to get the suit off. He was apprehensive at first but eventually said, “Well if you can’t trust to cops who can you trust?†He stepped into a wall harness as the techs went to work. The weapon rack was removed first then the mechanical arms started removing the rest of the armor slowly.

After the last Lizarian was in and the police finally had the crowd under control, and after signing a few autographs, Cyberone popped in and gave out a low whistle. “This is nice,†he commented. Squeezing by one of the tech he continued, “A little cramped but definitely nice.â€

“Yeaher wasn’t designed to fit this many people,†Ricky said stepping out of the harness wearing a white under suit. On of the support crew handed him his glasses that he gratefully took. “Ah that’s better, the vision enhancement in the helmet always gives me a headache.â€

“Oh I know, I was going through a bottle of aspirin a day before the finally got the neural net tweaked perfectly.†Taking off the helmet he took a better look around. “You and me got to celebrate tonight man. It’s pretty much mandatory after something like this.â€

“I don’t think so,†A video screen came to life showing an older gentleman. “You ruined War Dog enough of as it is.â€

“Hey Masterson,†Brett waved at him. “Just trying to show the kid a good time. You can’t keep him looked up in the stuffy ass building of yours all the time. He’s got to get out and meet people. Which remind me, my babe was telling me Trish, that the model that was all over you the other night, really wants to see you again.â€

“Really,†Ricky said getting excited.

“Why don’t you mind your own business you son of a …*â€, Brett reached up and turned the monitor off then turned his attention back toward Ricky.

“You and me on a double date we could really show this town how to party. All before your curfew of course.†Ricky shot him a nasty look but he agreed.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
Hammond sat in an exclusive gentleman club in a room set aside for CEOs. On the wall there was a television dedicated to each of the news network and the occasional sporting event. Hammond paid no attention to it as he, like others, read that mornings paper. Others in the room were looking at their stock performances occasionally giving out a moan while other smiled to themselves as their profits went up. Hammond didn’t really bother with the stock prices, Martha was kind enough to do that for him. No this was one of the few times he actually had to relax before going to the office and being assaulted by all the little aggravations his position held. And the number grew slightly after Wells had some people agreeing with her position that Anderson was just as important as Brett in the Cyberone program. He had never heard anything so naïve. But with her in charge of the program Anderson did become a little more docile. He was still damn annoying at times though.

Out of the corner of his eye he say somebody walk to his table. Looking up he saw Steve Masterson put his briefcase on the table and sit down next to him. “Have a seat,†Hammond told him. Folding up the paper he continued, “I should be a little annoyed at the intrusion Steve but it has been a long time since we sat down and chewed the fat.â€

“I’m not here to exchange pleasantries Frank,†he informed him.

“If this is about the other night Brett assured me he gave your pilots’ handlers a couple of hangover remedies he personally uses.â€

“This isn’t about your private ‘celebrity’ trying to ruin my armor program,†he was working hard to keep his temper under control. “Do you have any idea how hard we worked to keep Taylor’s identity a secret? I didn’t want him blinded by the lime light or sidetracked. But I have it on good authority your army liaison was the one looking so I won’t hold you responsible for that.†He leaned foreword a bit, “But everybody here knows your program has a secret of it’s own. Now personally I don’t care what it is. But you better believe me the moment I find out what it is the very next moment I’m on the phone to the media.â€

Hammond wasn’t impressed, “It’s a little early in the morning for idle threats isn’t it?â€

“That’s not why I’m here,†reaching into the briefcase he threw an envelope onto the table. “I’m assuming you received one of these?â€

Hammond looked it over, it was from Heartland Technologies. “I believe I did. I threw it in the trash the moment I looked at the envelope, I didn’t see a need to bother with it.â€

“Perhaps you should have read the letter inside,†Masterson told him. With a little urging he looked at the letter still inside. He skimmed most of it but a particular line caught his attention.

With a raised eyebrow he read out loud, “If your little War Dog program doesn’t work out I am more than willing to hire out the Corp as a suitable security replacement. I’ll admit the kid has a huge set on him.â€

“I’d imagine the letter you threw out said the same thing.â€

“So he hiring out his project out as a security force?â€, Hammond asked. “That set’s bigger than I thought.â€

“I did some asking around, he already has some takers. He had a couple clients but after our boys took down that walker the other day his cliental jumped up a bit. Trevor was telling me Harrison was using that and your line on Smartline as part of his sale pitch. The one where you said Cyberone couldn’t be everywhere.â€

“Basic propaganda, take something said and twist it to your advantage,†Hammond commented. “Harrison is smart I will give him that. Were any more of these been sent out ?†Masterson nodded. “How many takers do you think he has?â€

“I’m not sure, but I know of at least four that are thinking it over. I don’t know about you but I got a bad feeling about this.â€

“I had a bad feeing since Harrison showed up. We still can’t find anything on him that older than a couple of months. Even our government contacts are stumped when it comes to him and his company.â€

“I wonder what he’s hiding?â€, Masterson wondered out loud. Hammond was wondering it himself.

-----
Captain Smith exited the elevator and into an enclosed room. He entered the adjoin door and closed it behind it. Grabbing a rebreather off the wall he put it on as the door sealed with a hiss. Waiting patiently as the air was exchanged with the one on the other side of the second door the light eventually went green. Passing the occasional tech person in the nearly empty halls he found Zac in one of the labs. He was currently examining one of the pieces of the Captain was able to acquire from the walker. “Have you heard from your government yet Zac?â€

“Yes I have Captain Smith,†he answered putting down a probe. “The Lizarian government is claiming the ones we have captured are mercenaries and are not part of a new campaign against Earth by them.â€

“Is there any way we can shoot some holes in that particular statement?â€, Smith asked.

“My government is unofficially looking into the matter further,†Zac told him. Smith heart sank a little, if the politicians on his planet were anything like the ones here it would be a long while before they heard anything. “But I fear their claim may be true,†he said suddenly.

“That’s not something I want to hear Zac.â€

“My apologies Captain Smith. But the evidence I have seen support the supports their claim.†Smith asked him to elaborate and Zac obliged. “Well the vehicle they used was my first suspicion that something wasn’t right. I was caught off guard when Friend Ryan and Brett Ryder announced they had captured Lizarians because they are not known to use this type of vehicle.â€

“That doesn’t mean they couldn’t have designed one of their own,†Smith countered.

“True,†Zac agreed. “However, testing these pieces you were able to get for me and reading the reports from your government from their experiments on the walker say this isn’t of Lizarian design. Your Dr. Hubertt was able to determine by the power source alone that a different species created the walker based on the few Lizarian vehicles he was able to study.â€

“They could have acquired it in some way in order to throw us off their sent during the first few hours.â€

“It is in the realm of possibilities Captain Smith,†Zac agreed. “But from my experience the Lizarians have a very strict code of combat and would not stoop to such deceptions. Only those who think outside that particular norm or mercenaries would actually use outsider vehicles and weapons.â€

Looking up at the ceiling for a bit Smith breathed out as he said, “I’m not sure what would be worse, a rouge group of Lizarians or a group of mercenaries working for somebody else.†He was almost afraid to ask but he had to have all the facts he could get. Or at least the ones Zac could give him. “This technology you studied, is it similar to the ones used by these Scarzarians you mentioned.â€

Zac was hesitant to answer. He hated to give out speculation in a report but he learned the humans would be more than willing to accept it face to face. “From what I have seen yes. Scarzarian technology is extremely hard to get a hold of. They are somewhat isolationist in nature but they have contacted other species when the need demanded.â€

“And invaded other planets to when need demanded too I’d bet,†Smith said. Zac nodded in answer. Dropping into a chair Smith asked, “Do you have any idea how these guys slipped past out sensor net? Or is it possible they’re direction things from afar?â€

“I would assume from afar,†Zac said, “but I am unsure from where though. There is no subspace transceiver in this system. So they would have to be close as to have as little lag in their transmission as possible. Of course ideally they would be planet side or in low orbit for maximum efficiency but I don’t see how that is… possible.†Zac looked thoughtful for a moment then he immediately went to his computer.

“Zac what’s wrong?â€, Smith got up and tried to look over his shoulder. The alien was going through reports so fast he couldn’t keep up.

“Just a hunch as you humans call it,†Zac said never losing a step. “One that I hope that is wrong. I remember reading a few months ago about a meteor shower. I remember reading something that I considered strange in the reports.†After a few more moments he found what he was looking for. “Here it is, scientists from your planet were studying several pieces of meteorites that crash landed in some farmland. I remember thinking it was strange they were able to recover such large pieces when they were apparently hollow. They should have shattered on impact if not burn up in the atmosphere all together.â€

“And you said this was a few months ago?†Zac nodded. Smith looked at the report on the screen and studied a few of the accompanying images included with it. The chucks of rock did look rather big, almost human size. “Maybe I better have the boys in records take a little harder look at Heartland Industries. If the Scarzarians are the ones behind their armor tech them we better find out about it fast.â€

-----
“How many more?â€, Harrison asked. He and his assistant stood on a catwalk overlooking his factory. The machinery below ere busy manufacturing the various pieces of the Corp armored shells. Production had been in full swing for the past week. Several full suits were waiting for occupants as others were still being built and put together right before his eyes.

“Five more companies have hired us to accent their own security forces,†she answered, not even bothering to look at the report in her hands. “At least two of our current clients have replaced their security with Corp altogether.â€

Nodding slightly as he toyed with the ring. Harrison asked, “Have any government facilities taken us up on our offer yet?â€

“Not as of yet,†she said. “I person I personally talked to claimed government ‘red tape’ and regulations prevented them from even considering the matter.†Sniffing a bit in disgust she continued, “While not saying it out loud, one suggested they had total faith in Cyberone.â€

Harrison pounded the railing, “This is taking too long. The leaders are getting tired of hearing the infiltration is taking longer than anticipated every time they send for a progress report.â€

“Unfortunately there were a couple of unexpected stumbling block we were unaware of,†she said. “Such as the humans need to know the identity of every Corp member before they will consider hiring us. Some nonsense about ‘background checks’. Crafting an identity for each soldier is an extensive process. I also had a few asking if it would be possible to just acquire the suit and have one of our men train their forces in its use.â€

Harrison allowed himself a small smile as he thought that over, “Imagine the surprise if they found out their instructor was a little more cold blooded than they thought.†Harrison walked to the other end of the catwalk and toward the staircase, his assistant close behind, “These humans are more trouble than they’re worth. If this planet wasn’t so close to several vital space lanes I don’t think we would have even bothered with it.â€

“True, but the leaders want those space lanes,†she reminded him. “This system is isolated enough that any ambush would be hard to track and any ship would be considered lost in space until then.â€

“I am more than aware of the plan my friend,†Harrison said. “You know sometimes I wonder if the people of this planet think they are closer to the galactic hub than what they actually are. With all the races out there trying to expand their territory or trying to get a new supply of natural resources after depleting their own. Do you think they would even trust a race coming down trying to be friendly at this point?â€

“I wouldn’t if I was them,†she said. “Although I am a tad surprise at your tone. I’ve never seen you think about a lower species like this before.â€

“I found I tend to be a little more philosophical at my old age,†he told her. “I’ve seen my father head down this route as well as several others. I suppose it’s only natural that a warrior starts to thinks of things differently as they gain more experience. Not that it’ a bad thing, my father for example became an even more feared warrior because of his philosophies, going on to teach and lead a battalion of men. Not that I am setting a lofty goal for myself. I more than aware I am not my father.â€

“Hopefully you will be like you father in at least in one way,†she told him. “We have several soldiers in stasis while their bodies adjust to this planets climate. And we have even more on the way to don the armor we are currently manufacturing.â€

“Armor we would be moving out of here if the Lizarians did their jobs properly,†Harrison seethed. “We hired them for a simple job, raise the fear level in the humans. We cannot conquer them from within if they do not let us inside to begin with.â€

“Unfortunately the effectiveness of Cyberone and the newcomer proved a little too much for them,†she answered.

“Cyberone alone was enough to defeat their main fleet,†Harrison spat. “What threat did a rogue group of mercenaries think they posed to him? The idea behind the Corp was to give the humans an alternative, something that wasn’t so glamorous. Something they would easily identify with. But their support for this ‘hero’ is almost unwavering.â€

“And this War Dog is starting to gain some acclaim as well,†she said.

“If that sniper did his job we wouldn’t have to worry about either of them,†Harrison said. Looking thoughtful for a second he reined in growing rage. “What happened to that idiot sniper any way? Everything said he was in position to take the shot than nothing.â€

“Hard to say,†she said. “Nothing showed up the scanners but his spotter said he saw a glimpse of a human in black.â€

“Humph,†Harrison grunted. “That myth again, Cyberone’s shadow. I swear that only got created because the other races needed to blame something other than an armored human defeating them. No something had to have helped him, something nobody can see.â€

“Even the smallest myth…,†she began.

“Has a hint of the truth to it,†he finished, dismissing it with a wave. “And sometimes a story is just a story. And yet he still disappeared,†he said, again looking thoughtful and remembering something his father had always said. “Have somebody look into this myth. Cyberone’s secret may be a little more obvious than I originally thought. Their military is already supporting him, what if they go a little further than what the public knows.â€

-----
A lot of things happened over the next couple of days. For one Hammond and Masterson made a under the table deal to share what they knew about Heartland Technologies and their Corp. Both of them felt like they were more dangerous than anybody thought. After staying on the issue Captain Smith was able to get the probe into Heartland Technologies going, more or less thinks to the deal between Hammond and Masterson. Eagle Corp may have had their own intelligence thanks to their military contacts but Masterson’s had people of his own that were very good and got things the army couldn’t find. As a sign of the temporary truce between them Masterson and Ricky toured the Eagle Corp. building seeing how Brett got a first hand look at how the War Dog program worked at the street level. After making sure Zac wouldn’t be seen and giving Ryan the day off, with full pay to get him to actually leave the building, Hammond gave them the full tour.

After a quick look at command central Brett volunteered to show Ricky where he suited up. Jennifer agreed to supervise the visit when Hammond and Smith gave her a look. Right now they were in the equip room as Brett went through the procedure, “After I get dressed in the under suit and stand in between these poles here. My support crew seats at the controls over there and help me finish the process.â€

“Wow,†Ricky exclaimed as he looked around then up at the hatch in the ceiling. He pointed at it and asked, “Is that were the metal pieces are stored?†Jennifer said they were. “I don’t want to ask things out of turn but isn’t a bit wasteful to have the armor and the set up room on different floors.â€

“I thought that at first too,†Jennifer said. “And it was on the same floor at first. They found this was a little more efficient. The testing and repair areas are so large that set up just got in their way.â€

“It also means they had money to burn,†Brett cut in attempting a joke.

“Besides this is still considered part of the hanger of the Cy-Jet,†Jennifer continued. “So it also let him get to it faster than having to travel to a separate floor.â€

“The Cy-Jet,†Ricky cut in. “Do you think I can see it? I mean I’ve seen it but…,†he started to trip under his own words.

“I don’t know,†Jennifer started to say. Hammond did say there were some things he didn’t want them to see. Zacs’ floor and where Ryan suited up for one. Did the Cy-Jet hanger count?

“Come on Jen,†Brett said. “It’d be the highlight of the tour for the kid. What could it hurt?†Ricky added to the effect by silently pleading with here with his eyes.

“Let me double check first.†She contacted Captain Smith about it. Chances are he wasn’t with Hammond and Masterson at the moment. She believed he said something about rather having his teethed pulled with some rusty pliers than being in the same room as them. Besides if she did contact Hammond he would have to save some face and let Ricky see the Cy-Jet. Then he’d give her hell about putting him in that spot later. At least this way she could always say the military liaison said no. Masterson would have to understand that. Surprisingly he had no problem with. And luckily for her he said he would take the heat for it if Hammond did. “The tour’s about to hit the high note then,†she announced. She walked over to one of the computers and keyed in a code. One the far side of the room a light above the door went green.

“And here we go,†Brett said and let Ricky go in first. His jaw went slack as he saw the Cy-Jet in its hanger. Brett looked on a little amused as he watched him walk over. Jennifer stayed by the door and watched them. Brett went over all the specs of the vehicle. There was no problem there it was public knowledge anyway and she got he feeling Ricky knew them by heart. But he looked enthralled none the less. Brett slid back the canopy and said, “You want to get on?â€

“I shouldn’t,†Ricky said.

“Come on it’s not going to hurt,†Brett told him. “Besides there no way I’m going to let your crappy ass armor touch it so you might as well get on while you can now.â€

“My armor not crappy,†Ricky protested.

“All in good fun my man,†Brett assured him. With a little more prodding Ricky got on. For a brief moment he looked like a kid who got a new bike for Christmas. Brett walked away to let him have his moment.

Jennifer got next to him and in a hushed tone asked, “What’s gotten into you?â€

“What?â€, Brett asked innocently. “I just took a liking to the kid. He’s not that annoying when you get to know him. Besides he reminds me of me in a way.â€

“I’m sure Ryan would love to hear that,†Jennifer smirked.

Brett snorted, “We’re having a perfectly good time here, let’s not bring him into it.â€

“I’m just saying if Ricky was that much like you he wouldn’t know who to go after.â€

“Actually I think I would enjoy seeing that particular breakdown. Ryan squirming on the floor in a pool of his own self righteousness. I can see it now.â€

“Brett,†Jennifer said in a warning tone.

“Oh heab coming.†After a moment of watching Ricky he said, “You know you used to look at me with that type of adulation.â€

“The fact he’s known you this long and still has it is a minor miracle,†she told him.

“That was low Jen, that was really low.â€

“I have to get my shots in some where.†Smith got in contact with her, after a moment she said, “Ricky Captain Smith said Mr. Masterson is just about ready to go.â€

“He said he wanted to leave soon any way,†Ricky said getting off the Cy-Jet. “Thanks man, I never thought I would get the chance to see that thing this close.â€

“No problem my man,†Brett told him. “We’re playing nice now so what’s the harm.â€

“I’ll lead you back to the elevator, the Captain said they’ll meet you on in the lobby,†Jen told him. After they left, much like everybody thought, Hammond had the place searched for any bugs and had security go over the footage in case they tried to scan something they shouldn’t have. Playing nice had a different meaning for her than it did for Hammond it seemed.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
The air started to chill as it got closer to fall. The probe captain Smith started a couple of weeks prior showed something Hammond already suspected, Heartland Technologies wasn’t around before the Corp debut. Thomas Richard Harrison apparently didn’t officially exist before then either. Those in the know in the government were having fit trying to find out how this went under their radar. There was an ongoing debate behind closed doors about what to do about. Until that was settled Captain Smith hands were officially tied on the matter. Unofficially he could suggest to Hammond to do a little scouting of the various corporations and organization that hired the Corp from the “shadowsâ€, so to speak.

Ryan wore a trench coat over his usual clothes, and felt stupid wearing it. The sunglasses holding the mini camera only added to the stupidity. He felt like a reject from a spy movie. The only thing the coat was good for was to hide the belt and the vibroblades around his waist. The belts’ static field would hide him from the cameras surrounding the buildings and the Corp sensors. The vibroblades were for his own peace of mind more than anything else. He didn’t want to fight the guys in the suits, but if for some reason he had too he wanted to go down fighting. Jennifer insisted on the boots and the Captain agreed with her, so he didn’t argue. Keeping his hands in the pockets to keep it closed he walked around and surveyed each building, getting as closed as he could and not get noticed. All of them looked the same, two Corp members stationed at each entrance and exit. All of them giving everybody who passed the eye and the occasional verbal warning. On one occasion he saw them draw their weapons at somebody who was trying to enter the building before somebody rushed out and explained he was supposed to be in there. From their body language he could tell they still didn’t look convinced but they let the guy in.

From his days in the SEALs he could tell when somebody was just itching to see some kind of action, these guys were radiating that need in waves. It’s not a real good sign when the guys who are supposed to be guarding a building and the people in it have an itchy trigger finger. In his ear he heard the Captain tell him they got enough footage from this location and to head to the next one. He didn’t get far when he felt something poke into his back. In some heavily accented English someone told him, “In there now.†Going over his options he didn’t have much choice, he wasn’t wearing the suit so the bullets in that gun was going to do more damage than just leaving a bruise. Being instructed to keep his hands in his pockets and herded into an alley he went half way before he felt pressure leave the small of his back. “On your knees.â€

“You that desperate for a blow job?†He heard Jennifer groan a bit right before his capturer kicked him behind the left knee. Grimacing in pain for a bit as his knee hit concrete Ryan stopped himself from grabbing the vibroblades. The guy was behind him and could, and probably would, shoot the moment he made a move. Instinct made him try to figure out what kind of advantage he could gain when a Lizarian came around the corner. The one behind him stepped forward reveling himself to be a Lizarian in some human clothes. He tried not to laugh at the fact the alien looked more like a spy movie reject than he did with that fedora on his head. “More mercenaries?â€, he whispered. He didn’t get an answer.

“Was he any trouble?â€, the new one asked. Ryan slowly took his hands out of his pockets not taking his eyes off of either of them.

“None,†the one with the gun said. Ryan got a good look at that weapon now. After he found out it was a Lizarian he was expecting one of their hands weapons. Instead he was looking at an Earth semi-automatic pistol. Then they started speaking in their own language. The second one crossed his arm. Then the one with the gun looked surprised and took eyes off of Ryan. They started arguing with each other. Ryan didn’t understand most of what they were saying, but he did catch one word in English that he understood perfectly, “Corpâ€.

The guys back in control can weed out what they were saying latter, right now he had one concern and it was currently pointed at him. While they argued the point of the gun started to waiver then slowly point in another direction. Then he moved seeing a small opening he slapped the gun to the side, without any hesitation he popped up with a right cross that knocked the gunman down. The Lizaraian was shocked enough that he didn’t pull the trigger. That bit of luck wasn’t going to happen again so he had to take them down now. Pivoting on his right foot he slammed his other foot into the second aliens gut. He heard the breath leave him. That left him a few moments to deal with the gunman. He tried to aim at him, Ryan grabbed his wrist as he stepped into him and forced the end of the gun into the air. Ryan turned his head slightly as the alien did pull the trigger this time. Not worrying who heard that he tried to wrestling the weapon out of his hand.

Risking a glance behind him when he heard a noise he saw the other one start to get up. With a lot of effort he got the gunman’s arms back down and had the gun pointed at the other one. The gunman took his finger off the trigger as the other one looked startled. If these were mercenaries they were piss poor ones as far as he was concerned. Snapping off a quick kick he caught the other one under the chin before concentrating on the gun again. The alien struggled harder now and was getting desperate from the look in his eyes. The gunman made the gun point lower at the ground, Ryan used what he gave him and smashed his elbow into his face. The gunman head snapped back and some gray blood started to pour out of his nose but he wasn’t letting go of the gun. Hanging in to his wrist he tried to find a pressure point to force the hand to open. He wasn’t finding it fast enough and there was nothing to smash it against. “Fuck it,†he muttered, grabbing the gun he brought his knee up fast. There was a satisfying snap as the arm broke and the alien screamed as his hand opened up.

Pushing the alien away he reached for a vibroblade with his right hand after switching the gun to his left. The gunman ignored the pain from his arm and charged him. Ryan swatted him away and he crashed into the wall. When the alien turned around Ryan pinned him to the wall with the edge of the blade at his throat. The gun ended up being pointed at the other one and Ryan found himself in a bad position despite having a slight advantage by having to try to keep an eye on both of them. “No bullets,†the other one said.

Knowing a mind game when he heard one Ryan told him, “I counted four rounds. So unless the genius over here only loaded four bullets I think I’m good.â€

“Two of us one of you,†the gunman said.

“I only need one of you alive to talk.†To prove his point he pressed the edge of the blade into the alien’s flesh. He went wide eyed and clammed up immediately. This wasn’t a wetwork assignment so he could only kill if he had no other choice. They didn’t know that and that threat was only edge he had right now. “Now which one of you is going to be the dumbass and make the wrong move?â€

The answer came in an unexpected direction as a shot hit the wall slightly above him. Ryan ducked his head a bit out of instinct and looked for the source of the shot. Two Corp members were in the alley’s opening, both weapons pointed in his direction. “Lower your weapons citizen and get on the ground,†one of them ordered.

“Hey they attacked me,†he told them.

After a bit one of them started tapping the side of his head. “I can’t get a lock on him.†He almost forgot he had the static field on. This just got a little more complicated.

“Drop the weapons and get on the ground now!â€, the Corp members started to come foreword their rifles pointed right at him. Ryan noticed the Lizarians weren’t exactly looking nervous at this turn in events, in fact they almost looked relieved. This apparently just went form worse to shithole in a matter of seconds. Of all the times to be without the fucking suit.

“Alright,†he said backing away and taking the weapons away from the Lizarians, “alright just stay cool.†He put the gun on the ground and pushed it away. He held on to the vibroblade because that was going to be harder to explain if they took a closer look at it. They kept the rifles on him. Then he turned and ran praying they relied on a target lock instead of their own eyes. He still had to duck and make his profile as small as he could as he zig zag down the alley while they fired at him. He turned a couple corners and saw one of the buildings was shorter than the other. The timing on this one had to be perfect. He ran to the closest wall, jumped up as high as he could and hit the side of the belt as he pushed off with wall. The anti-grav pulse propelled him a few yards higher than he normally would be able too. When he was close enough he did it again with the other foot. One more time and he was close enough to grab at the ledge. His hand found a solid grip on the ledge and gritted his teeth as all his weight was suddenly being supported by his left arm. Quickly he reached up with his right and hauled himself over the ledge. Gripping his arm for the moment he had he heard rustling and peeked over the ledge, extremely careful not to be seen.

One of the Lizarians started saying something. “I can see he got away you idiot.†The gunman said something and the Corp member responded with an, “If you morons didn’t get in our way we would have caught up with him.â€

“It’s just an earth gun,†the second one commented looking all over the place, “it has no value what so ever. I think he made it to the streets. It’ll be impossible to track him there. Especially with this scum holding us back.†The gunman got in his faces and started shouting. The Corp member grabbed him by the shirt and threw him down hard. The other one tried to get involved but he was kept at bay by a rifle pointed at his face. “It’s no wonder why the others left you two behind. You couldn’t catch a wounded mynock if you were right on top of it.â€

The Lizarians started yelling at them. Then the second one was thrown into the gunman. The Corp aimed their weapons at them. From where Ryan was it looked liked they took off the safety. The gunman started to say something fast. One of the Corp members tilted his head slightly, almost like he was listening to something. “Harrison said the deal is off.†Without another word they executed both Lizarians, shooting each one several times. The bodies lay there bleeding out on the street. Walking up they each fired a shot into their head to make sure. “I hate clean up duty,†one commented with a sick chuckle and both left the alley.

Ryan pulled away from the ledge and took of the sunglasses. Turning them around so he was looking at the camera he said, “Did you get all of that?â€

“Every last word Shadow,†Smith said. “Good job, this will get all of the higher ups attention after I show it to them. Report back to Eagle Corp., we’re dispatching a wagon now to get the bodies, if the Corp doesn’t beat us to it first.â€

“Acknowledge, Shadow out.†Ryan looked back down to the alley. He’d killed more than his fair share of aliens but that was brutal by even his standards.

-----
A week after Ryan got that footage the pentagon was still arguing with the politicians in the know about what to do about Heartland Technologies and the Corp. The politicians wanted a little more proof before they did anything about it. “Never stopped them before,†Ryan commented in disgust when he heard the news. His lousy mood didn’t last long though, especially when Jennifer came over for dinner that night. While they ate the Chinese food she brought over they talked about anything that came to mind. Well almost everything they avoided talking about his last assignment as much as possible. “Thanks for dinner Jennifer.â€

“Hey it’s the least I could do,†she said. She reached for the dirty plates but he beat her to them. “I can get those.â€

“Sit back and relax for a change,†he told her. “With all the work you have to do for Ryder you deserve it as much as I do.†Grabbing the half empty cartons on his coffee table as well he said, “I’ll get you another beer, why don’t you put on some music.â€

“I’m surprised you didn’t do it already.†She got off the couch and headed for his CD collection. They had similar taste in music so picking one she’d like wasn’t going to be hard. The hard part was going to be picking one that would set the right mood. She was going to try to make him forget that last assignment if it killed her. Jennifer was over here a lot so she was very familiar with his collection, that’s why the newest additions popped out at her. “When did you get…,†she started to say. She stopped when she saw him briefly hold his left shoulder and rotate it a bit while trying not to grimace. “Your shoulder tightening up again isn’t it?â€

“No I just had a little crick, I slept on it wrong or something,†he said. She wasn’t buying it.

“Take off your shirt and get on the couch,†she told him. He still insisted it was nothing. Jennifer crossed her arms and gave him the business look she perfected over the past year and a half, “Don’t make me have to make that into an order Ryan.â€

“Alright,†he sighed. Pulling off his shirt he laid face down on the couch and she got on top of him. She started working on his shoulder, “Ugh,†he grunted, “go a little easier there would you.â€

“I’ve been doing this since after new years, I think I should know what I’m doing by know,†she said while continuing to massage his shoulder. “This knot a little tougher than usual,†she told him. “I thinking hanging on the ledge the other day made it worse.†Jennifer wanted to kick herself for bringing up the mission but it was the only thing that made sense.

“I thought the goop took care of it, but I guess not,†Ryan said.

“I swear this shoulder hasn’t been the same since you fell on it last March.â€

“Then tell Ryder to watch where he’s throwing thing.†Ryan grunted again but the knot finally felt like it was starting to relax. “Dodging crates in a warehouse is not my idea of a good time. I barely saw that last one coming, I almost had my head taken off.â€

“And I’m really happy you got really good reflexes.†She felt the knot finally go away and she kept going just to make sure. She noticed he finally started to relax a bit too. Smiling to herself she stopped just long enough to undo the buttons on her shirt.

Looking back at her he asked, “And what are you doing?â€

“I think this is going to be an all night job,’ she told him. Taking the shirt off and letting drop to the floor she added, “I want to make sure I’m not restricted in any way.â€

“Maybe you should work on the front of my shoulder for a bit,†he said idly. “I think it’s feeling a little tight too.â€

Her smile grew a bit, “We can’t have that now can we?†She lifted herself up enough so he could flip over. She worked at his shoulder but her hands didn’t stay there long. After a few moments he sent her bra flying and she was pressed up against him tightly as she kissed him. She felt his hand go down her back and caress her butt. She also felt him jump a bit at the knock on the door like she did.

“I can’t talk right now,†Ryan told the person on the other side of the door. “Try me tomorrow.â€

“Ryan it’s me,†Captain Smith announced, “I need to talk to you.â€

“Fucking A,†he muttered as Jennifer quickly got off of him. “Give me a moment!â€, he shouted as they made a frantic grab for the clothes laying about. Jennifer grabbed the first article of clothing she saw and held it to her chest as she ran toward the bedroom. “That’s my shirt,†Ryan said through his teeth as the door closed behind her. Looking around he found a tank top he was wearing earlier and threw it on while trying to hide Jennifer’s shirt. Making sure the place looked alright he opened the door and looked at the Captain, “I didn’t hear you buzz.â€

“Your landlord let me in,†he said as he walked in. “I hope I wasn’t interrupting anything.â€

“No, I was just planning on getting in a late night work out. So what’s so important that it couldn’t wait ‘til morning?â€.

“How do you know I’m not making a social call?†Ryan just gave him a look. “Right. I got off the phone with the pentagon. They’re close to taking action against Harrison. They just want more proof than what we got.â€

“Fuck,†Ryan spat. “How much more proof do they fucking need? Harrison right there saying he’s ending the deal with the Lizarians?â€

“Basically,†Smith admitted. “But like I said they’re closer to doing something now. The footage you got turned some heads. The biggest question is if Harrison really made a deal with the Lizarians. Or if one of the Corp pretended to be Harrison to make the deal.â€

“That is one of the dumbest things I ever heard.â€

“I know but they’re little gun shy at the moment with it being an election year. They don’t want to attack an American company without good reason. But if we can prove the Scarzarians are supplying them with technology like Zac thinks they are we got them. I wanted to give you the heads up now before you heard it tomorrow and went ballistic.â€

“I could have gone ballistic here,†he commented.

“True, but you don’t own anything over at Eagle Corp. I was playing the odds that you wouldn’t have destroyed anything here. So be ready to suit up and head out if we… hear any… thing,†Smith trailed off a bit as he looked down at the floor. He leaned down and Ryan was trying to think of what he could have possibly forgotten. Then the Captain popped back up with bra hanging from his finger by a strap. Looking toward the bedroom he smirked a bit and went a little red in the face, “Looks like I interrupted that ‘workout’ before it got good.â€

Without thinking Ryan grabbed the bra saying, “Do you mind?â€

Barely containing his amusement Smith scratched his chin lightly, “I don’t think that’s going to fit son.â€

“It stretches,†he said without missing a beat.

“My apologies to you and who ever the young lady is,†he said while looking back at the bedroom. “I’d say good evening but I think it was heading that way any way before I came along. I’ll see you in the morning Ryan.â€

“Good night Captain,†Ryan said and showed him the door. Ryan dropped on the couch and asked nobody in particular, “Would it be wrong to put a superior officer on the **** list? It’s not like we’re from the same branch or anything.†Jennifer came out of the bedroom wearing the shirt she grabbed and sat next to him. “That was close,†he commented handing her the bra.

“That was a little too close,†she said. “We can’t keep doing this Ryan, looking around corners trying to catch a moment alone. We can’t even go to our own apartments without somebody seeing us now.â€

“I’m sure that was a fluke,†Ryan told her. “You’re the only one who even comes here. We got nothing to worry about.â€

“We can’t take that chance Ryan. From know on we have to keep this relationship professional. We’re just friends.â€

Putting and arm around her he said, “I guess being just friends is going to have to do.â€

She started smiling again, “With privileges of course.â€

“I can live with thatâ€â€™ he said pulling her closer.

“I thought you would. I’m not going to drop you by going cold turkey.â€

-----
This was not how the plan was supposed to go. They were to establish several post were to stage the invasion from, wait a bit until Cyberone was eliminated, then he was to give the order and the Corp would have taken over the buildings they inhabited. Some of the human shields in the buildings would have to double as a food source until their dominance was established, But a single human could feed several men for a couple of days if rationed right, so there was no need to worry about losing hostages at a rapid rate. After that they would slowly expand their taken territory after securing a landing field for the main fleet. All they needed was Harrison word that the field was ready. And they were getting impatient. It was taken slower to get the Corp established than expected despite the other alien threats they discovered and taken out. Now this added roadblock just popped up in their path.

Harrison picked up the birdcage by his desk and threw it across the room, narrowly missing his assistant who didn’t react. The bird inside protested until the assistant showed some annoyance and stepped on the cage crushing it and the bird inside. “Freezing our assists?!â€, he bellowed at her. “Investigating the company and me?! Who do these humans think they are?!â€

“And there is the cease and desist order on making the Corp armor,†she added. In another fit of rage Harrison flipped the desk over. “Might I also add we are being asked to explain why there are several repetition of the humans identities of the troops.†Harrison stood there seething like an animal. “Apparently the holes in this particular government policies are starting to close before we can exploit them further.â€

“It’s too soon,†he said trying to get himself under control. “What tipped them off?â€

“Hammond and Masterson apparently started asking how we suddenly turned up out of the blue. And apparently, according to those we were able to buy off, there is some footage of the Lizarians and a couple of the troops talking about our deal, right before they executed them that is.â€

“That human, the one they couldn’t get a sensor lock on,†Harrison said remember that particular incident. “He was spying on us, that is the only explanation.†To her surprise he started chuckling to himself, “Oh these humans are trickier than I gave them credit for. Have you identified him yet?â€

“We found a picture based on the descriptions the men gave,†she said. She placed the file on the upturned desk and backed away. He looked at the picture and raised an eyebrow out how everything else was blacked out. “Even his age and height was deemed classified. Outside of this I can’t find anything else on this human. I have the hackers working on it now but it might take some time before they can get anything else on him.â€

“Stop the search,†he ordered. “If they went to all this trouble chances are they have some type of program to show them someone is trying to decrypt the file. And we have too many fingers pointing at us as it is.†He looked out the window overlooking the assembly floor. The machines were still going and he would not let some human order stop him now. “In the long run it won’t matter. He will be crushed by our forces just like everything else on this planet.â€

“So what do we do now? I think the lawyers can hold off the investigation, but it’ll be buying a little extra time at best.â€

Staring out into the factory Harrison played with the ring on his finger, one of the few things of his father that survived his last battle. He remembered hearing the stories behind this ring, how his father received it after winning a battle most say as hopeless, if not already lost. While the other commanders were pulling out his father saw something the others didn’t. In moments his small battalion had went past the enemy line and captured the commander, essentially winning the battle. Harrison wondered if this was how his father felt back then, the enemy was surrounding you and there was no clear way to get things back into your favor. He wasn’t sure, all he knew was there was only one path open to him and retreat wasn’t an option, “Contact the fleet and tell them the situation. Informing them I’m invoking protocol beta and speeding up the timeline of the attack.â€

“Is that wise?’ she asked. “We are hardly in a position to attack anything at the moment.â€

“Then we need to get ready. Find out which men are ready to come out of stasis and into a suit of armor. Send a portion of them to shore up the forces we have around the city, but save a few for a special assignment. Tell those in the city not to act until the city sees the signal.â€

“What signal is that?†In one motion Harrison pulled a card out of his pocket and threw it at her. She caught it between two fingers. A slim eyebrow raised slightly as she read the words Watchdog Hotline embossed on it.

“I believe the newcomer will suffice.â€

Licking her lips a bit she said to herself, “Young meat is always delicious when prepared properly.â€

 

[scikaiju]

-----
With no alerts from the orbital sensors in a few days and the ongoing investigation of Harrison dragging on things were in an extended quiet period. Hammond and Masterson were getting really friendly, the type were you’re smiling at the guy while holding a dagger behind your back. Smith had a bet going with some of the officers assigned to the building on when one of them was going to call the other on some dirty dealings. Brett decided to get in on the bet too despite the fact he was still trying to show Ricky how to enjoy the good life. A fact that those who betted on Hammond breaking tried to say would cause Masterson to cry foul first. The corporate side of the equation used the down time to catch up on any paperwork that they fell behind on. Not that Jennifer had that luxury, it seemed like she was always behind on the paperwork. It wasn’t that she was good at her job, but every time she thought she finally caught up a new stack of paperwork would magically appear on her desk. On more than one occasion she found herself muttering, “I really need an assistant.â€

While they were trying to get their work completes most of them realized they were trying to get their minds off of how tense things were getting. You could feel it in the air from the boardroom all the way down to the mailroom. Everybody was waiting for the other shoe to drop for this situation. Everybody was on edge, but nobody was on edge as much as Ryan was. He’d been in enough conflicts, against humans and alien, to know that the longer lull the bigger the mess when it finally dropped. And instinct was telling this was going to be nasty, even Brett reluctantly agreed with him. Like everybody else he was trying to take his mind off it as much as possible before he took it out on somebody who didn’t deserve it. He could only be on the target range for so long before he got sick of it so he had only one other option. Ryan lost himself as he was wrist deep in the engine of the “stealthcycle†as Jennifer jokingly called it. While examining the carburetor he heard Zac say, “Greetings Friend Ryan.â€

Ryan tensed up immediately. Jennifer kept telling him to not to that because it was disrespectful, especially since Zac was aware he was doing it. But as far as he was concerned it was his job to be suspicious of anybody or anything that wasn’t from this planet. Besides the response was pretty much automatic now since Zac had this annoying habit of coming up from behind him. “One of these days you’re going to catch me when I’m a little too wound up and working on my guns.â€

“My apologies,†Zac said as he studied the engine parts on the ground. “Although I still do not understand this particular need of yours to dismantle this machine from time to time. Surely the technicians Frank Hammond has working for him can do a better job of calibrating it.â€

“They probably could,†Ryan admitted. “I never claimed to be the best mechanic out there. But I just like tearing things apart and putting them back together. It’s therapeutic in a way.â€

“I see,†Zac said. Ryan knew him long enough that he really didn’t, but he didn’t press it any further. “The entire building seems to being doing things similar in their own way. On the way down here I witnessed Brett Ryder trying to proposition a coworker despite the rule forbidding it.â€

“Yeah well Ryder always thought he was above the rules in most cases,†Ryan said. He started putting the engine back together while Zac stood there quietly watching. In the back of his head he heard Jennifer telling him to play nice with him. He’s helped them out on more than one occasion. He actually likes you for some reason. All the usual stuff she tried to beat into his head. So why in the hell was part of him actually listening this time around. Glancing at him out of the corner of his eye he reluctantly asked, “So… what have you been doing to pass the time?â€

“I see Friend Jennifer has finally worn you down,†he said with a slight smirk.

“That obvious huh?â€

“It is outside your usual normal behavior Friend Ryan. Although I do appreciate the effort.â€

Ryan snorted, “Well in case she asks me about it in the future how about we follow through with the effort.â€

“As you wish,†he said. Ryan wasn’t exactly sure but he thought Zac was enjoying this a little. “I have been following up on the meteor shower lead. I discovered several other examples in the past few months of similar occurrences.â€

Ryan knew where he was going, “They’ve been sneaking in equipment or the troops a little at a time.†Zac nodded. “Have they all been coming in from the same direction?â€

“No they haven’t. I have been able to calculate several points of origins for the meteor showers.†Zac got down to a knee and continued, “It is a sound strategy if it is the Scarzarians. Making it look totally random I mean. Even the most diligent of observer would be hard pressed on placing it on them.â€

“You don’t sound convinced Zac,†Ryan commented.

“As your people say I like to deal in hard facts. So far there has been little of that to get a hold of.†Zac sighed a bit as he studied a socket wrench on the floor. “That lack of evidence has been very frustrating. It has been a very trying experience for me so far Friend Ryan. I feel like I am not doing my job properly.â€

“Well they all can’t be walks in the parks Zac. I know I had an assignment or two that had me wishing I had another job.†Ryan realized he almost had everything back in place, so far it was too good to be true. “Before I joined the navy my old man told me you just had to do whatever you were doing to the best of your abilities. Of course I joined the navy and had guys telling me my best wasn’t good enough. Then again after a few months I was kicking their ass so what did they know.†Zac let out a chuckle. Ryan knew he didn’t find it funny, he was just humoring him since that was where you were suppose to laugh. “Did you share the info about the other meteors with Captain Smith?â€

“This morning, he said he was going to try to make it into the next nail in Heartland Technologies coffin.â€

“I’d settle for having the coffin in the ground at this point,†he muttered. Wiping he forehead with the clean part of his arm he felt satisfied with the job, then he quickly realized he was celebrating a little too soon. By the front wheel was the static field generator. He picked it up and looked at the connectors then at the bike. “You’d think after all the times I’ve done this I would know to reconnect this first by now.â€

“Allow me to insert it for you Friend Ryan.â€

“I’ll give you a hand with it.â€

“My apologies Friend Ryan, but… this is not, as you say, a two man operation,†Zac looked apologetic as he said it.

“So I won’t get in your way then,†he told him. Wiping off his hands he watched as Zac quickly put the generator back in place. His phone started to ring, he smiled slightly as he got a text message from Jennifer.

“I need 2 c u now.â€

Making sure Zac wasn’t looking he typed back, “Time to abuse some privileges?â€

“Not that. CR as soon as u can.†CR was their short hand for the control room. It had to be important then.

“On my way.†He looked up at Zac who was studying his beeper. “You got called to the control room too?â€

“Yes I did Friend Ryan. Captain Smith said it was important.â€

“Then we better not keep them waiting.â€

-----
For a second both of them thought another invasion was happening judging from how busy the halls were. But there was no emergency alarm any where so what could have been so important. Both of them figured they would find out soon enough. After arriving Ryan was surprised to see Ryder leaning against the wall. “I thought this type of thing was beneath you Glory Boy.†Not that he had any idea what it was, but the line came out of his mouth automatically.

“Nothing important is beneath me. You on the other hand…,†he shot back. Jennifer shot them both a look to quit it. They stared at each other for a moment longer, Brett smirked a bit before turning away. Ryan shook his head as he did the same. Both of them noticed a few people were watching them any way. “What, we can’t pretend to get along for a few minutes?â€, Brett asked them.

Hammond and Smith both stormed in a few moments later. “I’m glad you’re all here,†Hammond began. “Thanks to our temporary partnership Masterson just gave us a call. They got a tip over their hotline about an alien ship landing in a rock quarry downstate. Of course Masterson gave me a call about forty minutes after he sent Taylor to investigate.â€

Zac immediately went to his station and went over the readings he was seeing. “There has been no indication of an extraterrestrial vehicle passing through the sensor net.â€

“That was the first thing we checked,†Hammond told him. “I tried to convince him to give a signal to hold off to the truck so we can get the military in there and check it out first in case it was a wild goose chase. But Masterson was adamant that Taylor and his support staff can handle whatever it is.â€

“So Masterson puffing his chest out a bit,†Ryan commented. “Why call everybody in?â€

“Because of this,†Smith said. He touched a button on his station and the screens in the room came to life. They all showed a rock quarry, the same one.

“Masterson’s broadcasting it?â€, Brett asked. “That takes some balls.â€

“It’s not Masterson,†Smith said looking a little disturbed.

“And it’s on every channel available,†Jennifer added. She picked up a remote and pointed at a TV set to a news channel. Flipping through the channels showed the same picture was on every channel.

“The person who sent in the tip?â€, Brett asked feeling his stomach tighten up a bit.

“We don’t know for sure,†Smith answered, “we’re still tracing the signal.†Looking disturbed again he added, “But we think it’s in the realm of possibility.â€

Without warning Brett headed for the door, “I’m suiting up.â€

“I’m right behind you,†Ryan told him.

“Both of you hold up,†Hammond ordered. “For right now this is Masterson’s show. He wants no involvement from us.â€

“He’s going to be disappointed,†Ryan told him.

“We’re holding off for now, “Smith told them. Both of them protested. “The order comes from above me. As far as we’re supposed to be concerned this is only a wild goose chase. Now both of you cool your jets and hope they’re right.â€

Ryan and Brett both went back to their spots on either side of the door, ready for the word. While they waited Brett commented, “I think we just agreed on something twice in the same day. That’s a new record.â€

“Then somebody better see if it’s snowing in hell,†Ryan said.

“I don’t think the devil giving out free sleigh rides just yet,†Brett added.

“So why are you so concerned about what’s going on?â€

“Ricky a good kid,†Brett told him. “I don’t want to see him get caught in a trap.â€

“Well that three.â€

“We better stop before the world ends.â€

-----
War Dog waited in the support truck as they arrived. Waiting until the last second he gave the signal for on of his crew to take off his glasses then the helmet folded around his head. Sensors came to life in front of him as his vision tried to adjust before the enhancement program kicked in. It wasn’t much better but he could read the readout now. Without knowing they had an audience the driver announced they where at the target area and the above him the roof opened up. A couple of the tech covered their ears as the jet boots roared to life and he slowly rose through the hatch and quickly picked up speed. “I’m doing a flyby of the quarry.â€

“We’re getting nothing on radar,†one of his crew said. “If they’re there they’re hiding pretty good.â€

“I’ll continue with the flyby,†he announced. “Even a cloaking field has a distorting affect to it.â€

“How do you know that?â€

“Don’t watch a lot of movies do you,†he said with a chuckle. “Those cloaking fields always have a visible distortion around it.†The crewmember had a response but War Dog didn’t get to hear it. He was assaulted by some one on the ground. He covered up on instinct as he tried to get a location on his attacker as two shot hit his jet boots. He got the warning from the internal sensors a second before he started dropping from the sky. Jennifer put her hands over mouth as Brett and Ryan both stepped foreword as War Dog smashed into the quarry wall and rolled to the bottom.

“War Dog come in!â€, the tech called out. “War Dog come in! Damn it Ricky answer me!â€

“Ugh,†he grunted as he slowly got up. His vision was off, a glitch in the program he hoped. His right leg had a hard time supporting his weight, he prayed it was only sprained. Luckily the armor helped him support himself as he looked around. “I’m here,†he cued his internal radio. “I have no idea where that came from.â€

“Yeah well find it and get out of there.â€

“You’re not going to hear an argument from me.†He saw six Corp come out of hiding. A small part of his head thought they might have gotten the call too. But deep down he realized they weren’t. Their weapons were pointed right at him as they steadily came foreword. He tried to get the Gatling gun out but they fired before it could get in position. Their attack was almost surgical in their accuracy, aiming at the joint and linkage of the armor. They were trying to disable the armor. Reaching behind his back he ripped a mini grenade launcher off the weapon rack and pulled the trigger as soon as it was aimed in their direction. The shell landed in the ground but the explosion was powerful enough to knock a couple of them down and stagger the rest.

“Alright Ricky!â€, Brett pumped his fist in the air.

Ryan had another thought on his mind, “Where’s the fucking Army? The kid needs help.â€

“They’re scrambling now,†Smith told him glancing down at his station. “But they picked their ambush spot a little too well. The closest base is twenty minutes away even if they break the speed limit.†Over on the side Hammond was yelling over his cell phone to get that support truck down there to get the kid out of there and let Cyberone handle it. Masterson was still adamant that War Dog could handle it.

“Do it Ricky! Do it!â€, Brett shouted at the screen.

War Dog finally got the Gatling gun in place and did his best to mow the Corp down. Four went down as the bullet ate their armor up. War Dog screamed as he continued to mow them down. But he made a rookie mistake, he lost track of two of the Corp he was fighting. Everybody watching watched as two of them got behind him to flank him. Everybody in the control room was willing War Dog to look behind him before it was too late. They pounced on him but he kept on fighting, swinging the Gatling gun into one of them. The other four got up and joined the other as they forced him on his stomach and covered him. Everybody watched as the Gatling gun was thrown out from the pile soon to be followed by the bazooka and any other weapon he had on that rack.

“I’m suiting up!â€, Brett said seeing enough and heading for the door.

Hoarsely Ryan told him, “You’re not going to make it.â€

“Fuck off Anderson I got…â€

“They already got his helmet off.†Brett turned back to the screen to see one of the Corp drop the helmet to the ground.

The flipped War Dog over and five of them held him down as the sixth stood over him. Kneeling down he was almost sitting on him before he roes a fist in the air. “NOOO…*â€, Ricky shouted before the armored fist slammed into his face. The Corp didn’t stop and kept pounding away at his exposed head. Blood started to splatter on his armor but he kept going. The others let go as he continued, his fist covered in blood, hair and brain matter. Finally he stopped and stood up after Ricky’s head was nothing more than bloody pulp on the ground.

In the control room Hammond and several other technicians immediately lost their lunch on the floor. Jennifer ran into Ryan’s arms and shook from freight at the seen. Ryan tried to comfort her but his eyes never left the screen. Brett was the only one to see them, how they were acting, how he was holding her. But he was too upset about Ricky to do anything about it. “Get some air,†he told her. She quickly left the room crying. Ryan expression hardened as he looked at Smith. “Do they have enough proof now?â€

“If they don’t I’m green lighting the operation behind their backs,†he told him then got on the line.

The screen changed to show an image of Harrison and a woman behind him. “I suppose someone more egotistical than myself would gloat here. Talk about how futile it is to oppose him. But I am not that person so I will get straight to the point. I have several of your institution under Corp control. They’re taking over as we speak if they haven’t done so already. The people inside are fine. For now. For how long depends on how you and your leaders react. Our demand, wh will be sent out in the hour, will be met otherwise their safety is no longer in my hands.†He smiled coolly, “In case you doubt my seriousness…â€, he trailed off and turned to the woman behind him.

She nodded and touched a piece in her ear, “Terminate the ones in the support truck.â€

The image changed back to the quarry just in time for one of the Corp to nod and repeat the order. Hammond got on the phone again and told Masterson to get those men out of there but he was too stunned to respond. They located the truck in no time. The driver saw them coming and tried to move the truck. A bullet through his head stopped that. The ones inside the truck panicked as got out and ran for their lives. The group started to take aim but the leader held up a hand to hold on. The Corp then split up into three groups of two and hunted down each one. In ten minutes the every last member of the support crew was hunted down in killed.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
Harrisons’ word rang true as in a matter of minutes the Corp hired out quickly took over the buildings they were assigned to protect. The Army and Air Force mobilized their forces to cover each building but were still holding off for the moment in order to make sure the hostages were safe first. Back at World Inc. Smith was holding off of sending Cyberone and Shadow in until they got more information, despite Hammond yelling his head off to get Cyberone in the air. Smith had called Hammond, Ryan, Brett, Jennifer and Zac to the conference room. “I’ve been getting reports from the military plus local police precincts that the Corp taking over other building that they didn’t have a contract with. They’ve been using the distraction of their original strike to get a stronger foothold.â€

“How many do they have now?â€, Jennifer asked.

“The best we can tell they originally had a contract with eight corporations,†Smith answered. Placing a map on the table he started marking off several more locations on the map the go with the previous eight. “With these new strikes they have a total of fifteen locations. This includes the Federal Reserve and part of the transit system. Last I heard they made an attack on city hall but they were intercepted by some of our tanks as they were heading to the reserve. So we got lucky there.â€

“Why are there spreading their forces so thin?â€, Hammond ask. “They’re pretty much cutting each unit from the others, especially the ones at the transits system.â€

“They are securing their location,†Zac said. “Before long they will start fortifying their position, digging in as you say.â€

“If I’m reading this map right,†Ryan said studying it, “that part of the transit system is the main hub for the rail system. They can’t control the trains outright but they can fix it so they’d crash into each other.â€

“Good thing SOP is to have all public transportation stopped,†Jennifer said. “I was stuck on the El once when that happened. It’s not a fun situation.â€

“We should still get those people off,†Hammond said. “Good PR you know,†he said off handedly.

“We already got men on it,†Smith told him, more or less ignoring the last thing he said. “But I warned them to keep an eye out for anything suspicious with orders to shoot first and ask questions later. I not sure how many troopers he has working for him. But at this point I wouldn’t put it past him to order a few pot shots while we’re rescuing the civilians.â€

After being quiet for the entire meeting Brett demanded, “Where’s Harrison?†The scowl on his faced seemed to be permanently etched there after he witnessed what happened to Ricky. “Where’s that son of a bitch hiding?â€

“In plan sight,†Smith told him. Picking up a remote he aimed it at the screen on the wall. An image of Heartland Technology popped up. “Apparently the Corp armor wasn’t his only little project. He spent the past couple of months fortifying the building in secret. A squad of men I sent to detain Harrison found there were gun emplacements in the walls. So far we think their computer controlled but we have no proof of that.â€

“Then I’ll find out,†Brett said.

“Hold up son,†Smith said. “We need you leading the troops for this one. We determined the biggest deployment of his troops is at the rail hub. There is a lot of ground and a ton of openings for them to cover so were banking we can get a group of special ops in the backdoor while they’re distracted by the main force.â€

“Special Ops meaning me of course,†Ryan said dryly.

“Not exactly Ryan,†Smith told him. “We’re not letting Harrison off the hook that easily. We’re going to have you break into Heartland Technologies during the middle of it.â€

“What do you hope to accomplish there?†Jennifer asked, feeling a knot starting to form in her stomach.

“Another gamble on our part,†Smith explained. “If Zac’s theory is right they been shipping in men and their gear by those meteors. We’re assuming that they had to augment their forces with some humans.â€

“Captain Smith,†Zac spoke up, “I fail to understand why humans would still work for Harrison after what happened to Ricky Taylor.â€

“They are hoping some mind control is involved,†Hammond informed him. Smith nodded in agreement.

“One of Ryan main objectives is to see if he can find out what’s controlling them and try and break it if he can,†the Captain told them. “And if he can capture Harrison alive.â€

Jennifer and Ryan glanced at each other briefly. She absolutely hated it when they sent him into the proverbial viper nest, even before they started seeing each other. But she knew she couldn’t make too much noise about it otherwise the others would start asking questions. Ryan nodded his head slightly, acknowledging her silent concerns before turning to Brett, “I’ll save you a piece of him.â€

“You better,†Brett said darkly and left the room.

“Let’s get these sons of a bitch people,†Smith said, but they were already heading out of the room. Looking over to Hammond he said, “I guess that last part wasn’t really necessary.â€

-----
“Cy-Jet has launched,†the tech said over the intercom. Ryan paced his locker room in the meantime. Smith walked in a moment later holding a duffel bag that he sat on the bench.

“You ready to go son?â€, he asked.

“I’ve been ready,†Ryan told him. “But we never went over how I’m supposed to get into the building. My usual insertion methods are going to be a little noticeable if I’m supposed to sneak in.â€

“That what I’m here to talk to you about,†Smith said. He handed him a small map. “The building itself is pretty unremarkable, originally that is. It’s surrounded on three sides by some taller buildings, scout teams have found several cameras monitoring those sides but that shouldn’t be a problem for you. The property itself is surrounded by an electric fence lined by barb wire. It’s designed to keep people out no matter what, but I’m positive you’ll find away around it. The only big problem is that there are several yards of open space between the fence and the building. If there are any guards on the roof they’ll see you before you’d get close.â€

“I’ll worry about it if it happens,†Ryan told him. “Do we have any ideas what the inside looks like?â€

“We got a hold of the blueprints from when the building was originally built. But seeing what kind of defenses they put in it wouldn’t surprise me if they built a couple of sub-basements by now. Any windows are either darkened or blocked off entirely so we have no idea what’s going on inside.â€

“I’m going in blind,†Ryan commented. “So business as usual than. I’ll just pretend it’s a grounded spaceship or something. How crowded is the outside going to be?â€

“We started blocking off the area as soon as they showed their true colors,†Smith told him. “We’re still evacuating several blocks as we speak as fast as we can. Only military vehicles are allowed into the area. Legally any way, you know how the press and the super curious are.â€

“So I’m guessing a sewer infiltration then to get close to the building.â€

“Not exactly,†Smith said. Reaching into the duffel bag he pulled out an army uniform. Ryan raised an eyebrow. “I know you’re originally Navy son, but swallow your pride just this one time.â€

“Walk in my shoes for a couple of days and see how much pride swallowing I actually do,†Ryan commented while taking the uniform.

“We have a transport outside right now,†Smith continued, “we’re sending some of our men to help with the effort. You can get on and blend in before they pick up the rest of the troops. Before I forget,†he reached back into the bag and felt around a bit before pulling out two gun clips, the ones with the red tip bullets. “You might need these.â€

Ryan took the bag and searched it further before saying, “Only two? I can carry six extra.â€

“I know but it was decided to hand out most of what we have to the men in case it comes down to a fire fight. I’m lucky I was able to get you enough for these. I wish I could have done better for you son.â€

“Any other time I’d want to blame Hammond or Ryder,†Ryan said as he took the clips. Looking at them he added, “But I know it was the right call. If it boils down to a fire fight, which it probably will, they’re going to get chewed up otherwise.â€

Nodding in response and not sure what else to say Smith said, “The transport leaves in ten minutes. I won’t be able to hold it for much longer so you might want to hurry up. Good luck son,†Smith gave him a salute that Ryan returned. Leaving the locker room Smith hoped he did enough for the young man in there.

-----
Cyberone said nothing as he headed for his target location. He didn’t even acknowledge the radio hails the ground crews were giving him. He barely flinched as a news helicopter suddenly appeared in his path. Although his mind was elsewhere his instincts and reflexes took over as he avoided the craft by a foot and a half. The camera guy was raving about the footage he just got but the pilot was sweating bullets just the same afterwards. When he arrived he saw the troops in a fire fight with the visible Corp members. Switching on the targeting system he banked sharply and headed for their defense line strafing the Corp as he flew over them. Coming around he hovered just high enough in the air that he could fire another round over the soldiers’ heads before landing. The Corp regrouped and got under cover while he popped the canopy of the Cy-Jet and got off. Tagging one in the head with one of his forearm laser he walked foreword with a purpose. “Cyberone,†a Lieutenant said coming up to him, “am I glad to see you. We barely got in position before they opened fired on us.â€

“Are the rest in building?â€, he asked. The Lieutenant noticed the difference in his voice and looked a little surprised.

“As far as we can tell,†he said, “The main force seems to be inside but the few they got out here are enough to hold us off so far.â€

“Hold back until I make a hole,†he ordered. “Then follow me in. We’re going to show these bastards exactly who they’re trying to **** with.†That got a few cheers from the enlisted men but right now he didn’t care. Without another word he walked foreword and started firing away at anybody in Corp armor.

-----
The transport was quiet as it moved into position. The men inside had orders to help cordon off the area, watch out for any civilians not willing to leave and to be prepared for a more aggressive assault coming from Heartland Technologies. The men inside where a mixed bunch, some from World Inc. but others were from a nearby base. Most of them concentrated on their upcoming task, but one Private was a little too observant for his own good. He noticed one man that was standing next to him seemed different than the others. For one he’s boots didn’t seem regulation. There were some strange bulges in his uniform. And while everybody else was staring straight ahead he seemed to be looking down, almost trying to avoid eye contact with everybody else. He tried to get a good look at the man face. Suddenly he said, “Eyes up front soldier.†He was quiet when he said it but there was enough authority in his voice that the private obeyed it immediately.

The transport came to a stop, “alright everybody out!†a sergeant ordered as the backed end lowered and they piled out. Getting into formation he ordered, “Cyberone is now engaging the enemy. So we are to make sure there no more surprises coming out of there. You know your assignments and your duty. Fire at anything that looks like it’s incased in armor, even if it’s Cyberone himself. Now move out!†They left formation in their prearranged groups, although the ones from World Inc. stayed together. After getting to the prearranged spot behind Heartland Tech the lead looked around than gave a quick hand signal. The one in the back touched the shoulder of the one in front of him. As the touch was repeated down the line and they continued on the one in the back quickly sidestepped into an alley.

Going almost to the street on the other side of the block the soldier dropped his helmet to the ground and took off his backpack. Quickly he took off the uniform revealing a skintight black body suit and the static belt around his waist. Ryan opened the backpack and took out the rest of his equipment. Placing the vibroblades and gun in their proper holster he attached a few grenades to the hooks on his vest and attached the spare gun clips to his legs, placing the red tips bullets on the lowest slots. Finishing up by putting the throwing knives on the holder on his left arm he dismantled the rifle and stuffed it and the uniform into the pack. Slipping the gloves and the mask on as he headed for the street he activate the static field in the belt and his pace quickly turned into a full on run for Heartland Technologies.

Seeing the fence quickly come up he slowed down just long enough to gauge the height and distance of the obstacle in front of him. He moved to jump for it hitting the sides of the belt as he sprung up. The soles flashed briefly as he launched into the air and flipped over the fence. Landing in a crouch he looked up for any reaction. There were a couple of guns on this side of the building too but there weren’t moving in his direction. Making sure they weren’t moving toward him for a few moments longer he cautiously stood up and made his way for the only visible door. Shadow kept glancing at the roof for any guards but so far so good. A thought entered his head and he looked down at the pavement under his feet, would they have time to mine this place somehow. No somebody would have to have noticed that, but he was walking a little slower just to be sure.

The door had a computer lock on it. A small surprise but it actually made his job a little easier. Opening the gauntlet on his left arm to reveal a small computer he pulled out a cord and quickly found an access port. Plugging himself in Shadow activated the codecracker program and silently waited. Getting a confirmation on the screen a split second before the light on the door flashed green. Opening it only a little to make sure it stayed open he quickly disconnected himself. Pulling a gun with one hand he quickly opened the door the rest of the way with the other. Nobody greeted him on the other side. One more glance around outside he entered the building and closed the door behind him. Again he waited before going any further, looking around the tried to locate any cameras or anything that looked like a laser wire emitter. Not seeing anything he went foreword.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
Harrison sat in his office listening to the various reports of the field units as the events played over the various screens in front of him. His assistant stood behind occasionally writing down a note here and there when something of interest caught her ear. Like the fact Cyberone was sent to the depot instead of the reserve like they originally thought. Although Harrison had it in the back of his mind that they would have sent their armored dog here first thing. They had a system in place ready for him no matter where he should up, unfortunately the men seemed unprepared for this version of the man. And Harrison had to admit he was caught off guard too. Outside that little speech they overheard this was not the usual reaction they planned on. “Apparently he was closer to the younger one than we originally thought,†he commented dryly.

“He is going outside the usual parameters we observed in the past,†she agreed.

“Sir?â€, a Corp came in. “We just got a unusual hit on the rear door.â€

“We’re being attacked already?â€, Harrison asked with a raised eyebrow. The humans were coming at him without their vaunted Cyberone? He was mildly impressed, amazed at their apparent stupidity, but impressed none the less.

“Not according to the sensors,†he said. “But the sensor plating by the door got a hit.â€

“Let me see,†Harrison said. His assistant went to the monitors and changed the image to the sensor readings in question. Harrison stood behind her and read the information that scrolled by as he watched. The door was unlocked and opened but according to the sensors nothing came through. But the pressure plates they had put in as extra security, something with some weight behind it stepped on it. There was no doubt about that. “Apparently that myth has some more truth in it than I originally gave it credit for.â€

“Sir?â€, the Corp asked.

Harrison looked at him then for the markings on the armor only they could see. “You’re a newer recruit. How many campaigns have you been in?â€

“This is my first major one sir.â€

“I’d gather your first ever campaign as well,†he smirked. Turning back to the screen he asked, “How many hits did the plating get?â€

“Just one,†she said going over the readings. “A scout perhaps?â€

“Perhaps,†he agreed

“But why aren’t the sensors picking the human up?†the Corp asked.

“You’re assuming it’s human to begin with,†Harrison commented. From the body language they could tell he was even more confused. “I swear they’re enlisting them as soon as they hatch now a days. Give him the basics.â€

His assistant turned to the Corp member, “Whoever this is, he is wearing a stealth field of some sort. Humans do not have the technology to create something like this yet. Another species is either helping them or they decided to attack us in the confusion.â€

“Let our visitor get further inside than what he already is,†Harrison said. “No doubt he is wondering why he hasn’t run into any guards so far. I want it to distract him slightly before we close in on him. If we can try to get him in the factory itself before we corner him. I want to take stock of this individual personally.â€

-----
Cyberone was up to his neck in Corp as he stood in the middle of the station. A couple of times he caught them trying to get behind him, like now. He spun around popping both laser and unloaded as one tried to jump on top of him. These armors looked the same to him so half the time he wasn’t sure how many he was actually getting. Another charged at him he ducked a bit and flipped him over. That same time two more grabbed him and forced him to the wall. A couple of solders tried to help him out but they were quickly swatted away like gnats. But it was enough of an opening for Cyberone to grab their helmets and knocked their heads together. They stared at him before both punched him in the face. The wall behind his head cracked a bit as he smashed into it. Changing strategies a bit he grabbed them by the neck and threw them off of him. Both skidded on the floor knocking over one of the soldiers. “You guys obviously haven’t heard how hard my head is.â€

“Die Hot bloods!â€, one of the Corp shouted as he open fired with his rifle. Cyberone was the focus of the assault but the Corp started to spread his fire. In moments soldiers were getting shot in the leg, arm, one head snapped back as he fell to the ground. Another one came at him from the right. Cyberone snapped off a quick punch to his jaw and wrenched the rifle from his hands. After a quick glance at it he turned around to the one firing and unloaded. The Corp member stopped firing and went for cover.

Cyberone stopped then handed the weapon to a passing private. He didn’t take into the actual weight of the weapon as the private almost dropped it. “It doesn’t look like they can handle their own weapons. Tell who you can to grab the ones off the ground and let them have. If we can save the special ammo until we really need it all the better.â€

-----
If they could stand on end right now the hairs on the back of his neck probably would, that’s how Shadow was feeling right now. In this hallway alone he’d check out several rooms and a couple of utility closets and nobody. Not a guard, not a janitor not even a squatter was in sight. There wasn’t even a rodent running around that he could see or hear. Everything about this situation felt wrong. Part of him was starting to believe the whole set up outside was to get people to believe people were still in here while Harrison sneaked off some where else. But Harrison had been under constant surveillance over the past week before this went down and he was seen entering the building. So if he was some where else there had to be a way out they didn’t know of. Still he couldn’t shake this feeling he was being watched and he knew empty or not now would not be a good time to lower his guard.

Based on the blue prints he had been briefly allowed to see before heading out he knew the main work area of this factory was straight ahead. Back against the wall he made his was to the doorway that led to it. Kneeling slightly he opened it a bit and looked inside. He saw a lot of machinery and plenty of places for an ambush. Pausing for a moment he thought about his strategy going in. He was still in enemy territory but he had to keep in mind some of these guys might be humans. Thinking that over he holstered the guns and drew the vibroblades. Even with the built in silencer the guns could still be heard and alert anybody else close by, and he could disable a person in armor and still let them live with these better any way.

Slowly he entered the room and left the door slightly ajar in case he had to make a hasty exit in this direction. He got a few yards into the room before somebody above him spoke in an almost jovial voice, “I see we have an intruder.†Pressing up against the closest piece of machinery he looked around trying to find somebody coming at him. Not seeing an immediate threat he risked peeking his head out just enough to get a look. Harrison along with the woman from the earlier transmission stood on an upper catwalk. Flank by several people in Corp armor, and at least five on the floor itself. “And an interesting intruder at that,†Harrison continued. “Where does someone on this middle of nowhere planet get a stealth field? If they are from this planet at all that is. If you’re who I think you are that would explain why the government file on you we dug up was so extremely classified.†Shadow looked around to where he was exactly, right now if he moved in either direction he was going to get spotted. “I’m not in the mood to find out,†he turned his head slightly to his assistant.

Again she nodded, “Locate the intruder. Don’t rely on your scanners they won’t pick him up.â€

“Rodger,†one said. The ones with them made their way toward the stairs while the five on the floor started walking foreword.

“Not good,†Shadow whispered to himself. The odds right now were bad enough but once those other got down to the floor it’s going to be twenty to one odds. He had to find away to get an advantage, any advantage, now. Looking around again he thought he saw something that looked like a power box then looked up at the lights. It was a long shot but he had to take it. He could probably take it out with his guns but they’d zero in on him before he could take it out. So he went with plan B, they’d still see where he was but all he needed was a couple of seconds. Pulling a grenade off his chest he pressed the button, counted and threw it at the box.

“Grenade!â€, somebody shouted. The grenade bounced off the box with a metal ping then exploded taking out the box and a good chunk of the wall. A second later the lights above started to flicker and go out. Shadow was on the move before the lights faded all the way out.

-----
The station hub quickly started to look like a war zone. Both sides had taken up cover and were basically just shooting at each other. Cyberone one and the Corp both had various dings and dents in their armor, especially after Cyberone and the soldiers were able to capture some Corp rifles. But firepower wise they were still outnumbered. His stomach twisted as the man next to him popped his head out to take a shot only to take one right between the eyes. Several times he almost called out for them to pop in the special ammo. Each time Jen called him over the headset reminding him that some of these guys might be humans under Harrisons’ control. “What is taking him so long?â€, he demanded over the private line.

“He hasn’t reported in yet,†she told him. “But there was an unconfirmed report that an explosion took place in Heartland Technologies a few moments ago.â€

“He’s a big boy Jen he can take care of himself.†Popping back up he laid down some cover fire with his forearm lasers. It was enough for the men on his side of things to fire back. On of the shell penetrated the armor on one and he went down in pain. The was a small bit of celebration that they finally got one that quickly went away as the Corp returned fire.

Through all of that Cyberone heard Jen softly say, “I know.†He tried to kid himself that he didn’t hear the concern in her vice. Tried to tell himself that she always sounded like that whenever Anderson went on a dangerous assignment. Tried to ignore the image of how they were holding each other in the control room. That moment was soon gone as she was back to business. “Captain Smith said to tell you to hang on. The special ops team is almost in position.â€

“Easy for him to say,†he commented while tagging a Corp in the leg when he caught him trying to flank them. Ducking his head behind some crate the Corp that were still standing seemed to be targeting him with all their fire. “Sooner or later they’re going to get the idea to rush us.†Over the battle he heard some sort of conversation over the line, “What now?â€

“Hammond just came in saying Masterson sending some help,†Jen answered sounding a little confused.

“He better have a fleet of that War Dog armor handy,†he heard Smith say.

“He wouldn’t say,†Hammond told him. “All he told was to hold tight and make sure his men got clearance to enter the conflict area.â€

“Conflict area?â€, Cyberone snorted. “God that sounds so civilian.â€

“The orders have already been given,†Jen said.

“Well whatever it is it better be good.†Cyberone was about to lay down some more cover fire when he say some movement to his right, “Sergeant!â€

“I see him,’ he replied turning and firing. The Corp attacker went down as several bullets pierced his chest armor. As the laid there green blood slowly poured out of his wound and started pooling on the floor under him. “Well we don’t have to worry about that one being a human then,†the Sergeant smirked.

“Civilians coming in!â€, somebody outside shouted. He and the Sergeant looked back and sat a couple of men carrying a long case scurry into the room ass low as they could while a couple of soldiers provided some cover fire. They were swearing all the way to their position.

“You Masterson guys?â€, Cyberone asked. They quickly said yes over the return fire. “Damn that was fast.â€

“Masterson put a rush order on the modifications for this,†one of them said as they popped the latches on the case. “He wanted it to operate without the War Dog armor. He also said you’d know how to use it.†He opened the case and Cyberone jaw dropped inside the helmet.

Reaching into the case he pulled a Gatling gun. Feeling the heft a bit he went, “Oh hell yeah.†The two quickly got out of the building. Getting the barrels spinning he walked out into the open. “Hey fuckholes, here a blast from the immediate past for you.†Pressing the trigger the depleted uranium bullets quickly ate up any cover the Corp had as they had to scramble for new cover. “Now that’s what I’m fucking talking about!â€

-----
“Get those lights on now!â€, his assistant demanded to those below them. “We need to see where he is now!â€

Harrison paid no attention to her. His eyes were on the darken floor under them. He saw his men’s armor in the darkness. As his eyes adjusted he thought he saw an occasional shadow move, sometimes toward them but mostly away. Then he heard a cry, from the electronic distortion he knew it was one of his. Watching the general area of where the cry came from again he thought he saw one of the shadows move again. A person after his own heart, when he was slightly younger that is. “Let us join the hunt,†he told his assistant. “My senses may not be what they used to be but I do still enjoy a good chase from time to time.â€

“As you wish,†she told him. Turning back toward the ones working on the power she ordered, “Do not stop until you get the lights working.†Placing her clipboard on the steel grating she followed him down the stairs.

Two Corp passed each other as they continued searching, the less experienced of the two gripping his weapon a little more tightly that the other one. Once they were a few yards apart Shadow ran out of his hiding place and slid under a conveyer belt. Both of them turned around when the blade scraped against the floor slightly. The inexperienced one quickly went over to the sound while the other made his way a little more cautiously. Shadow mentally picked his next target. The more experienced one chastised the younger for being so excitable. That what Shadow thought he was doing based on the tone of voice. The language was no Earth tongue he ever heard. They parted ways again and he waited patiently. The experienced one eventually turned a corner and came down the other side of the conveyer belt. When he past Shadow quickly and quietly slid out into the open behind him. The Corp started to turn around when he heard a hum in the air. He didn’t get a chance as the vibroblade in his left hand sliced through the back of his knees. He went down and Shadow quickly stood and placed the blade at his throat. One more hum and the one blade plunged into the arm in control of the rifle trigger and the other sliced through his neck, armor and all. Blood spurted out as he fell the rest of the way to the floor. Shadow was already jumping over the other belt and back into hiding as the inexperienced one ran over to see what was going on.

Leaning against another piece of machinery he wiped the blades against the sleeves of his suit. Making the obviously more excitable one a little more jittery than what he already is was a bit of a risk. But if there was a chance he could get him to the point he start shooting at imaginary targets that was all the better for him. And if there was a couple of more maybe they’d take the bait too. The better start doing it soon though, because sooner or later they were going to catch on to his tactics and regroup. Then he would be in trouble. Some red emergency lights came on in the next second and Shadow looked around mumbling, “Fucking A.â€

“Pity,†Shadow’s head snapped to the left as he heard Harrison voice come closer, “I was hoping for a more interesting hunt. This does take some of the fun out of it.â€

“There’s fun then there expediency,†his assistant told him

“True,†he admitted, “but for a few moments at least I felt young again.†Hands in his pockets he passed Shadows position. He realized a second too late something was there as Shadow pounced on him. Making sure he had a good hold on him and a blade was against his neck he turned to face the other direction. Seeing his assistant stand there and a couple of Corp members aiming their rifles at him. Glancing behind him and seeing nobody he quickly forced Harrison backwards until he felt the wall on his back. “I must be getting old,†Harrison commented to his assistant. “I didn’t even react.â€

“It happens to the best of us,†she said trying not to look worried.

Glancing to the sides he saw Corp lining up and taking a bead on him. Not his best decision but Shadow had to work with what he had at the moment. “Show me the Scarzarian,†he demanded. That seemed to catch the assistant off guard while Harrison started chuckling slightly. “We know your working with them and they have to be here.â€

“Interesting,†Harrison said. Shadow took a good look at him, why wasn’t he sweating? “One individual for a bunch of off worlders. You must be human under that get up. Anybody else would be trying to use me to get out of here.â€

“And I have a job to do,†Shadow said in his ear.

“So you do,†he said with a smirk. To his assistant he said, “Well show him what’s he’s come for.†Without a word she reached up and grabbed some of her neck. With a sickening rip she peeled the skin off of half her face revealing green lizard skin underneath. Shadow first instinct was to grab a gun and fire but he quickly pushed it down. He’d be forced to let go of Harrison and that would leave him open if he squirmed away. “Have you ever seen a Scarzarian before?â€

Standing she had a sick half human half lizard smile on her face as she said, “Perhaps we should show him all the Scarzarians?â€

“An excellent Idea my dear,†Harrison agreed. “In fact let’s show them all what a Scarzarian actually looks like.â€

“Headquarters to all field units,†she said into the piece on her ear, “open helmet. Repeat open helmets.†There was a slight hiss as all the helmets opened up each revealing a lizard face underneath.

“Would you care to take a guess what’s under my skin?â€, Harrison asked a second before he planted a elbow into his gut. Shadow felt the air leave him a second before he was flipped through the air and landed on the concrete floor.

-----
All across the city solider, hostages and reporters nearby watched in horror as the Corp helmet slid open revealing the true faces behind them. “I was afraid of this,†Zac said as he watched from the monitors in the Control Room.

“This is Captain Smith to all units,†he said into his headpiece. “I am authorizing the use of the special ammo. I repeat I am authorizing the use of the special ammo. Take these bastards down!†Jennifer held a hand to her mouth, afraid because they haven’t heard from Ryan yet. She looked at her board, they were still getting a signal from the static field but that didn’t tell her anything.

“Understood,†the Sergeant with Cyberone said. Giving the order they pulled out the old clip, cleared the barrel and popped in one of the red tip clip. While they did that Cyberone laid down some more cover fire. He was getting a little more conservative with how he was firing. The counter on the gun said he was under half the bullets he originally started with. And if didn’t remember if there was a spare ammo clip in the box this thing came with or not. He’d worry about it later.

And explosion came from one of the tunnels and soldiers dressed in black came rushing through firing away. “Ops team is here,†he commented dryly to nobody in particular. They were able to corner the Corp from two directions. He was about to say something to the effect that he was disappointed that it was over already. Then the sergeant behind him and a couple of others where shot and went down. “Where in the **** did that come from?!â€

“Above us!â€, the Ops leader shouted. Above them another group of Corp was in the balcony picking the soldiers off as they tried to find new cover.

“Where in the **** were they?!â€, Cyberone said as he raised the Gatling gun at the new threat. One of them jumped right at him instead of backing off. The shell ripped a hole into his chest before he even got to him. Cyberone batted the body away as it landed on top of him. He oked up just in time to see another one falling at him. He didn’t get time to bring the business end of the gun back as the Corp landed on top of him. A couple more came out of nowhere and joined the fray. Before he knew it the Gatling gun was wrestled out of his head. It was getting in his way any way. Cyberone kicked one away when he realized they were trying to force him to the ground. “Didn’t get enough the last time did you?!â€

“It is never enough hot blood,†one of them grunted. The one he kicked came jumped back on as another came up behind him and grabbed him around the neck. Cyberone fought them off as best as he could. One of the soldiers saw what was going on and tried to pick them off of him but he was killed by another in the group. Slowly they dragged him down to the floor.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
The moment Harrison flipped him away the Corp descended on him like a pack of wolves. Shadow didn’t have the time to realize how deep in it he really was. His only thought was to take out as many as he could. The Vibroblades hummed as he slashed away at the Corp armor, trying to get enough breathing room to pull the guns. He wasn’t even thinking of the red tip bullets at the moment, but there were enough visible green faces that could eat a regular bullet. Now if he could only get that chance. For a brief moment they were surprised he was able to any type damage to them with the knives in his hands but he knew that wasn’t going to last long. He had to get some room. Taking a risk plunged one if the vibroblades into the neck of one of the Corp closest to him. The body going limp he tossed it as best he could into the group. One caught the body easily and threw it aside. The rest grabbed him and threw him down to the ground

They came at him and he saw the murderous look in their eyes. He got his legs up, making sure to get both feet into the closest one chest. Without thinking twice he hit the sides of the belt. The bottom of his he boots pulsed briefly as the Corp flew back and into the ones behind him. Catching movement out of the corner of his eye he quickly got up as another Scarzarian tried to smash his head in. Shadow quickly turned around and plunged a vibroblade through his hand and into the floor. He didn’t even scream in pain as he tried to free his hand after Shadow let go of the trigger on the handle. He looked up to see Shadow draw a gun with a free hand and point it right at his unprotected face. A pull of the trigger later Shadow turned around and fired off another that grazed another on the cheek but still ricocheted a bit inside of his helmet.

Jumping over the body behind him he turned and found cover as he drew the other gun and the Corp returned fire with their rifles. Waiting for a lull in the firing he leaped back put in the open firing as close as he could to their exposed face. Two went down but the bullets bounced off the rest. Scrambling in a different direction he went for cover again. He heard some footsteps coming close, maybe if he got the drop on them. Shadow came out of hiding both guns up. He saw Harrison’s assistant standing there flanked by four Corp, their armor sealed once again. “I’m surprised you fell for that tactic,†she said coolly, a half lizard/half human smile crossing her face. “Sacrificing a few to gain this particular advantage. Open fire.â€

The Corp didn’t hesitate in obeying that order. Shadow didn’t have time to react. His body jolted from each impact. In seconds, although it seemed like forever, he dropped to the floor and lay there, unmoving.

“This can’t be right,†Jennifer said going over the readings on her board. “This can’t be right,†she repeated, fear growing in her voice. They lost the signal to the static field. No there had to be a glitch somewhere. “Zac check the systems now!â€

“I already have Friend Jennifer,†he said sorrowfully. He did so the moment he realized they lost the signal. “All systems are working at optimum efficiency.â€

“No…â€, she said.

“Perhaps the belt just got damaged,†Smith offered. “He got a little too close or a stray bullet hit it when he was moving. It’s entirely possible they have a jamming field up to block the signal.†Zac started to say that wasn’t possible but Smith held up a hand to stop him. Jennifer didn’t look at him. She kept her hand over her mouth while trying to force back the tears forming in her eyes, trying not to think theworse.

-----
Cyberone had been in better spots. He was covered in Corp jackasses trying to kill him. For some reason his mind flashbacked to a similar situation. Unfortunately that one involved some supermodels with something else entirely in mind so it wasn’t going to do him much good here. Getting an arm free he started pounding way at anything in Corp armor. He felt them pulling at his armor, like they were trying to get it off of him, and he started to pound harder trying to disorient them enough so he could get away. Feeling a harder pull at his helmet he watched a lizard face snarl right at him, “I will do to you what I did to the other.â€

He felt nothing as he realized this was the bastard he was praying to meet up with. “Just what I wanted to hear fucktard,†he sneered. Getting an arm under this particular Corp he popped the forearm laser and blasted him in the chest armor full blast. He recoiled from the laser feeling the heat inside his armor start to burn his skin. Cyberone got off a few more shots as he rose up, this time aiming at the ones holding him down. There was no point in using the targeting system, their ugly mugs were right there. All of them went down in a heap and he had to pull himself out from under him. Another Corp came at him but he went down a second after something green sprayed out of the side of his helmet. He looked over and saw a soldier grinning ear to ear.

“These bullets work greatâ€, he beamed. Cyberone looked around and saw a lot of bodies on the ground and draped over creates or barriers, human and Corp alike.

Looking back at the Corp with the scorch mark on his chest he saw a couple of soldiers take aim. “Don’t shoot that one!,†he ordered. “He’s all mine after what he did to War Dog.†They nodded and went to find other targets. “Let’s see how tough you are without the posse backing you up bitch.†The Corp lunged at him and he was still pretty tough by himself. Cyberone spun around from a punch that caught him sleeping. Jumping on his back he went for the helmet again. Reaching behind for him he grabbed the Corp by the shoulders and flipped him off of him. A quick foot top the face caught Cyberone off guard. The Corp quickly got up and punched away at his head, trying to crack the armor. Ducking a wild right Cyberone got under him and flipped him over again. This time he came around with a punch to the side of the Corp head as soon as he turned around and the other got up. Then he came across with the other fist. The Scarzaian was rocked with each punch, his helmet the only thing keeping him from experiencing the full brunt of each one.

Cyberone stepped away from a desperation swing then came back with straight bunch right to the face. Scales flew off his face from the impact and he fell to the ground. Some of those scales were attached to Cyberone’s fist as little bits of green blood dropped to the floor. More pooled on the ground by his face as he slowly started moving again, determined not to lose to such an inferior life form. “â€Don’t worry,†Cyberone told him. “I’m not going to lower myself to pounding your head into mush like you did with Ricky.†Getting to his hands and knees the Scarzarian heard some clicking and an electric hum, “I got something better in mind.†Rising to his knees the Scarzaian turned in time to see arcs travel between Cyberone’s forearms as he swung them around and to his side. Eye bulging he watched as he brought those arms foreword right at him. The laser emitted disintegrated his head, helmet and the part of the armor around his neck as soon as it hit him. The beam went on to blow a hole in the gut of a Corp standing a few yards back and the wall behind him. Pumping his fist slightly he shouted, “Booyah bitch!â€, at the headless body

Looking around he saw a Corp corner an Ops guy on the ground. He shot two lasers at him, one to turn him around and another to the face. “Thanks man,†the Ops guys said as he scrambled to his feet. He kept on looking around, the soldiers and the Ops team more or less had this place under control. A thought hit and him he looked up again incase there was another surprise waiting for them on the levels above. Scanners didn’t pick up anything so it looked clean, still he directed a couple of free Ops soldiers to the stairs to be sure.

“Cyberone calling World Inc.â€, he said activating the comm. system. “Station is secured for the most part, just needs a little clean up work. Army boys can handle that. Where do you need me next?†He was still in the mood for making these bastards pay.

“We acknowledge Cyberone,†Smith responded. “The bullets have caught the Corp by surprise all over the city. Most of them have holed up in the building they captured but we have teams working their way in to engage and protect the hostages as we speak. Right now we need you to get to Heartland Tech. ASAP.â€

Looking around out of habit he deactivated the external speaker to keep this conversation quiet. “Anderson handling that one remember? The last thing he wants is for me to steal his glory.â€

“Brett we lost the static field signal a couple of minutes ago,†Smith told him. Despite at what he felt about the guy Cyberone started to get that empty feeling again in the pit of his stomach. “We need you there now.†He was speechless, he didn’t know what to think.

He got an incoming transmission from a separate signal, the private line. He heard Jen softly say, “Brett please…â€. And by the sound of her voice he knew right then and there that bastard had her. His felt his heart start to twist as he realized he never had a chance.

“Just for you darling,†Brett told her as he headed out of the building and to the Cy-Jet. “I’ll be there faster then you think.â€

-----
“Well that was disappointing,†his assistant said looking back him. Harrison stood at the other end of the pathway with his hands behind his back. “I will give him credit for not letting go of his weapons , a true warrior in the end. But I’m getting some strange reports around the city though. The humans apparently have some sort of weapon that can pierce our armor.â€

“Yes I’ve heard,†Harrison said slowly. “But I think we have another problem at the moment.†She looked confused and asked what it was seeing how the intruder was taken care of. “I may be getting up there in years but my senses aren’t that dull yet. Didn’t you notice something is missing?â€

“What could be missing?†Then she started sniffing the air, “There’s no blood scent.†Cautiously she walked over to the prone form on the ground. There was no blood anywhere, then she heard him utter a small moan. “A protective body suit,†she said as it dawned on her. Shadow raised his head and an arm right at her and pulled the trigger. A single bullet went through her head but she remained standing. He raised the other arm and fired both guns. She staid standing as he emptied both clips into her head and upper body.

“No!â€, Harrison screamed as A Corp had to hold him back. She feel backwards, muscles still twitching slightly not realizing the body was dead. Partially covered in green blood Shadow started to get up.

“Target acquired,†A Corp said finally getting a lock. They surrounded him as best as they could without the factory machinery getting in the way.

“Hold up,†Harrison ordered. “If he wants to die like a warrior then let him.â€

Slowly he staggered to his feet, making sure he kept facing Harrison. The pain from the bullet impacts made is body want to stay in a hunched over position but he forced himself to stand straighter. Holding the guns up a bit the clips slid out as he hit the eject switch. Harrison watched with some amusement as lowered them to his legs and slid in a fresh clip, the ones with the red tip bullets. They stared at each other for a moment. Shadow held his arms out wide and fired once from each gun. One striking a Corp on his right in the throat the other hitting one in the shoulder to his left. Then he ran foreword bring in the guns to bear, shooting one bullet at time. The Corp in front of him went down. There was some clanging behind him, he turned around in time to shot down some of the Corp jumping on top of the machinery to fire at him. One tried to rush in and tried smash the butt of his rifle into his head. He ducked out of the way as the momentum carried him foreword leaving him open to a bullet in the back of the head. Shadow turned back around and took out shot two more Corp, but they were moving at the same time so he only winged them in the arm. Two shots wasted but he was concentrating on getting to Harrison.

Harrison to his credit wasn’t running away. In fact after watching Shadow gun down most of his men he charged right at him. Faster than Shadow was expecting he was on him before he could twitch his fingers. A palm strike landed on his chest. That pain combined from the one from earlier stopped him in his tracks. In moments Harrison disarmed him of one of the guns. Shadow knew he had to push it aside if he was going to survive. He was on the defense blocking and dodging every punch and kick Harrison threw at him, he also found himself doing the one thing he didn’t want to do, back up. Behind Harrison he saw a Corp trying to take aim, right now their leader was the only thing keeping him from going so. Shadow force a charge foreword, enough for him to plant a knee in Harrison gut and bent him over. Rolling over his back Shadow brought up the gun and fired a shot right where the heart would be on a human. He turned around and was met with a very hard sole of an expensive shoe as Harrison snapped off a spin kick. Shadow fell to the ground trying to ignore the stars threatening to overcome his vision.

Harrison began to grind the heel of that same show into the wrist still holding a gun. Shadow grunted and grimaced in pain but refused to let his fingers to open. Harrison finally reached down and ripped the weapon from his hand. Walking away and examining the weapon he gestured toward the two that were shot in the arm, “Hold our guest up.†The grabbed Shadow under the arms and hauled him to his feet, but they didn’t let him go. Taking out the clip he examined the bullets inside, “Interesting, I’m going to have to send this to our scientist to study. It might be useful if we have to go up against your vaunted Cyberone again. If he survives that is. But I’m sure we can find somebody else to use it on if it came down to it.â€

Tossing the gun to a Corp he grabbed Shadows head and examined the suit a bit. “Oh don’t worry I have a pretty good idea what you look like under this so I’m not going to take the mask off just yet. I can think of four species that use a material that can resist a bullets’ impact and have a stealth field generator, the Druidians, the Malkarians, the Trykans and the Tholians. The Druidians never venture this far out, they hate being far away from their “holy†sector. The Trykans suit absorbs the full impact of the bullet so you don’t feel it at all. So that just leaves the other two. I’m sure if we examined the belt we would have discover who exactly but it appears to have taken a hit somewhere during the commotion. Not surprisingly I suppose with all the bullets flying in your direction.†He walked away and examined the Corp suits on the factory line. “That woman you killed was my assistant by the way, my closest confidant. I’ve known her for several years.â€

“Oops,†Shadow said, trying of get out of the Corp’s grip. But they were holding on tight, his fingers were starting to go numb.

“She made a simple mistake though, I will say that,†Harrison took a metal glove off the line and studied it. “She left herself open for that kill shot. So I shouldn’t really be all that mad at you for taking it, but I am.†Slipping the glove on he walked back toward them. “So how much did your higher ups tell you about us hmm?â€, he asked almost casually. Although the glint in his eyes was telling a different story all together. “Did they tell you that we are a carnivorous species? I for one can tell how exactly how tough a piece of meat is just by looking at it. It’s a rare gift.†Harrison stopped right in front of him. “Take you for example, I can see you would be very tough to chew at the moment so we would have to…,†he trailed off while flexing the fingers wrapped in the glove. “Oh what is the Earth word for it? Oh yes I remember now, tenderize.†He grabbed a handful of the suit with his freehand then started to pound away at the body with the glove

Shadow felt the breath leave him at the first blow. The Corp holding him held on so he didn’t have any where to go as that metal fist kept coming at him. But he would not give the bastard the pleasure of hearing him cry out. Finally he stopped and gestured for the Corp to let go. Shadow dropped to the ground in a heap. Harrison removed the glove and waaway for a bit. “One thing that always surprised me about those suits.†He reached down and picked up one of the stray vibroblades, “They all have the same weakness.†Shadow tried to get away but Harrison was faster and put a foot on top of him to hold him down. “I wonder how many layers of flesh I can filet off of you before you die?â€

The building lights flickered again as it shook slightly. Somebody announced, “We’re under attack!â€

“Obviously,†Harrison said dryly as he stepped off of Shadow.

 

[scikaiju]

-----
Cyberone passed the building several time, each time laying down a round of fire at the defenses. The Scarzarians may have fortified that building but they apparently didn’t count on an attack from the air. That didn’t stop the gun turrets from trying to shot him down. Obviously wherever they caught Anderson it wasn’t near the control room. The boy was definitely slipping. Banking sharply he raced back toward Heartland Tech and concentrated all his fire on the closest gun. He must have hit something important because it started sparking and exploded when he got close. Flying through the mini fireball and avoiding the other guns Cyberone commented, “One down five to go.â€

On the street hiding as best they could several bazooka teams took position, each aiming for one of the guns turrets. The commander got a ready signal from each unit before shouting, “Fire!†The shells exploded against the guns. The guns tried to move to acquire the new targets but they seemed hampered now. “Damn things are tougher than they look. All units reload and fire again on my signal.†It took two more round of shots before they caused enough damage for the guns to stop firing, two blowing up form the explosive shells. “Outside defenses are down!â€

“I hear you Lieutenant.†Captain Smith said. “Cyberone we’re ready to storm the building.â€

“Who’s going in with me?â€, he asked.

“I pulled some strings and got the boys stationed at World Inc. in position to move in. We just need to get them in, and we have to pull Shadow out without anybody noticing.â€

Cyberone pulled up a blueprint of the building on his monitor. Using the sensor reading he was able to pull on the fly bys he got a general idea where a group of them where in the building. “They want a way in I’ll give them a way in.â€

The leader on the World Inc. unit watched the Cy-Jet loop wide in the air and start to come in low. “Brett you crazy mother fucker.†To his men he yelled, “Stay out of his way!†Leveling off a few feet above the ground Cyberone aimed the Cy-Jet at Heartland Technology building. He fired several shots at the wall. Before the nose of the Cy-Jet hit the electrified fence Cyberone reached down and grabbed a handle on either side of the control and pulled. The canopy flew off and Cyberone was launched into the air. Flipping in the air he landed on his feet after The Cy-Jet crashed through the wall. The World Inc. unit ran up to him.

“There your opening,†he told them, “right into the factory.â€

“Hammond going to have a **** fit,†the commander commented.

“It’ll give him a chance to market a new one.â€

Shaking his head slightly he turned to his men, “What are you waiting for we got an opening. Move in!†The unit took position at the hole. One by one the entered they factory splitting of into two direction. Cyberone walked over the Cy-Jet and into the main heart of the factory scanning for any sign of the Corp or Anderson. The Commander saw movement then the Corp taking position and shouted, “We got hostiles!†The unit took cover and started to exchange fire with the Corp. They had the red tip bullets already loaded so several of the Corp went down in the first wave. Cyberone went in further trying to avoid the conflict as much as possible. Using the Final laser earlier was not a good idea, he was at quarter power and he didn’t have time to get any kind of recharge from the Cy-Jet before he crashed it. So he had to pick his shot more than usual.

“I was wondering if I would come face to armored face with you,†he turned and saw Harrison standing there right in the open. “I was positive they would send you right here, to try to take the head of the snake. I believe that is the expression on your planet.†Shadow was lying in a heap on the floor behind him. Sensors said he was till alive, they also said Harrison had one of his guns in his hand. “Did you know they made these wonderful bullets? How your employers must love you if they did this.â€

“Give it up Harrison,†Cyberone told him. “It’s all over.â€

“Do you really think it’s over hot blood,†Harrison smirked. “After my Corp deals with you and your little army we will have only just begun. Under our feet is an entire army of Scarzarian soldiers just waiting to come out of stasis and ready to take this world over. I just have one minor annoyance in my way.†The gun started to rise when he saw Shadow move. He jumped on Harrison and wrapped his arms around his head and neck trying to snap it. A Corp came out of nowhere and grabbed Shadow and threw him back. He hit a machine, his left arm getting in between him and it and taking the full brunt out the impact. His shoulder popped out of it’s socket and he screamed in pain. Cyberone shot the Corp in the head with a forearm laser. Harrison took that distraction to shot Cyberone in the arm.

“Fuck!â€, he cried out as he grabbed the arm and went to a knee. Blood started to seep through his armored fingers.

“Two minor annoyances,†Harrison amended. “I stand corrected. No wonder this planet has never fallen, the inhabitants are so tenacious. It will be my pleasure to the first to break that tenacity.†He raised the gun and aimed right for Cyberones head. Behind him Shadow was doing everything possible to ignore the pain his left shoulder giving him. Breathing hard he forced it aside just long enough to look at Harrison’s back. Grabbing a knife in the arm holster he yelled and threw it. The blade stuck in his back, right by the shoulder blade causing arm to move as a he pulled the trigger. The bullet sailed by Cyberone’s head as he popped the right forearm laser and fired at Harrison. The beam pierced his chest, burning him clean through. He look bewildered for a second as blood started to come out of his mouth. Cyberone fired again, this time right in the heart and Harrison went down.

“That one was for Ricky you son of a bitch.†Making sure Harrison was actually dead he looked around. The World Inc. Guys actually had a couple of the Corp under guard. But a few more were still fighting, even going so far as to killing the ones that surrendered. Cyberone took care of a couple that tried to take the high ground. The unit commander came up a few moments later. “Harrison was saying they had guys in stasis under the building, send some guys to try and find a way down there.â€

“On it,†he answered. “How’s Ryan?â€

“I’m about to find out,†he said. He didn’t want to say it out loud but a small, small, very small part of him was glad he was still alive. He was clutching his left shoulder and swearing under his breath. From were he was both could see it was dislocated. “Hang on Anderson.â€

“Pop it back in,†he grunted.

“Let me get a paramedic in here,†the commander told him.

“Do it now you son of a bitch,†he said mainly to Cyberone. Reluctantly he nodded and took a hold of his arm as best he could. The commander held Shadow down as he popped the shoulder back in place. Shadow screamed in pain again then he started breathing easier, almost laughing from the relief. It still hurt like hell but it wasn’t as bad now. “Fucking a,†he sighed.

“Cyberone to base…â€, he started to call in.

“This is Shadow,†he grunted as he put his right hand to his ear, “I’m going to need an escort out of here.â€

“Acknowledged Shadow,†Smith answered relief in his voice. “As soon as we get the clean up done we’ll get you out of there.â€

Cyberone looked at him with some annoyance, “You are the most stubborn guy I have ever seen.â€

Lifting his head up a bit Shadow said, “Have you ever looked in a mirror? Look at who I’m talking to.†He dropped his head back down. The unit commander smirked at Cyberone. Both of them knew he was going to be ok if he was still taking verbal pop shots.

-----
Jennifer was on here way the moment she got word they got back. She tried to walk slowly, and took the long way around, while she still tried to keep up appearances. That and she wanted to give them a chance to check Ryan out first. Finally she made her way to the part of the building where they would be working on him. She memorized the location after she was first introduced to him when she hired in. She nodded to a Doctor and made her way into the room. Ryan was lying in bed, his upper body was one massive bruise and his left arm was in a sling. But he was conscious and giving her a small smile. “Sorry I didn’t call in earlier.†She said nothing as she rushed over to him and wrapped her arms around him. Grunting he said, “Careful.â€

She pulled back to look at him, “Oh God baby are you all right?â€

“I’ve been through worse,†he said patting the scar on his left side. “They’ll shot some of the goop into my shoulder and slap a goop patch on and I’ll be good as new in a week. Stuff works wonders.â€

She tilted her head a bit, “They got you on pain killers don’t they?â€

“I am flying high,†he admitted.

“I was wondering why you weren’t crying like a little baby,†she teased.

“When have I ever cried like a baby?â€

“Do you want a list?â€, she joked.

“If I did, and this is not an admission, it was only to get some extra sympathy from you.â€

She smiled, “Well after the doctors say that arm is totally healed, I’m going to throw you a victory celebration you are never going to forget.â€

“You do know,†the both turned their heads to see Brett lean against the doorway, arm in a sling as well, “that’s there a new rule named after me banning little shows like this.â€

“Ryder,†Ryan grunted in a warning tone as he started to get up.

“Brett it’s not what you think,†Jennifer quickly said.

He closed the door behind him as walked into the room, “It’s a stupid rule any way. I broke it a few times myself so it would hypocritical of me to call anybody else on it. But you two might want to be more a little carful there could be people who might over hear and not be as understanding or as a good hearted as myself. Like that secretary hanging around out there who looked like she was going to say something until I reminded her that she was the first person I broke that rule with.â€

“Why are you doing this?†Ryan asked suspiciously.

“I just want to see a happy couple stay happy,†he said grinning.

“Thank you Brett,†Jennifer said hugging him.

“Anything for you darling,†he told her. “You better stop before the boyfriend gets jealous.â€

“I’ll see you in the conference for the debriefing after they fix up you arm Brett,†she said. She turned toward Ryan and smiled, “and I’ll check on you later. In a totally official capacity of course.†She exited the room leaving the two of them alone.

Brett turned toward Ryan that smile turning into a scowl, “You are the luckiest son of a bitch on the planet. She’s hot, smart and willing to lower her standards to be with you.â€

“Her standards would have to be nonexistent if she wanted to be with you,†Ryan shot back. After a few moments of silence Ryan, feeling totally disgusted with what he was about to say, didn’t really look at him, “Ryder, tha…â€

“Save it,†he cut him off. “I saved you for her not because I like you. You dying like an idiot would have made her upset. And I don’t want to see her cry. And if you do anything to her…â€, he pointed a finger at him.

“I hear you,†Ryan said. “I’m sure you’ll be number two in line if I ever pissed her off.â€

Chuckling a bit Brett agreed. “I got to admit though this stuff Zac comes up with really works. My arm doesn’t even hurt any more.â€

“Yeah it is one of the few good things he lets us use.â€

“But he won’t her that from you,†Brett said. Ryan chuckled a bit and laid back down. “Get some rest Anderson,†he looked at the door thinking about Jennifer, “I get the feeling you’re going to need it.â€

-----
Hammond and Smith were in his office going over the reports of the battle. It took a few hours to get the Corp totally defeated, although Hammond was surprised a few surrendered. Not that they would have to worry about them. The deal they had with Zac’s people would take them off their hands. “We lost a lot of good men today,†Smith commented. He always said that after they had one of these battles.

“There’s more where they came from,†he commented. As always Smith ruffled a bit but he didn’t say anything. They had that argument several times before but Hammond never changed his mind. “Although I may have to talk to Wells, from some reports she was getting a little emotional when it looked like we lost Anderson.â€

Smith saw it to but didn’t say anything to her about it, “Of course she was concerned about him. They become pretty good friends since she’d been here. I’d say she’s been good for Ryan morale, somebody in corporate finally seeing his worth and all.†He said that just to get under Hammonds skin, and it work. Besides if he was right about those two he couldn’t be happier for Ryan.

“She’s letting herself get too attached I think,†Hammond commented. “It might be time to get a new mission operator.â€

“Excuse me,†Smith put down the report in his hand. “You want to get rid of the only person that’s so far been able to keep Brett and Ryan from trying to kill each other? Not to mention the only person that’s been able to keep Ryan off your back.â€

“I’m starting to think she’s playing favorites,†Hammond said calmly.

“You’re one to talk,†Smith snapped. Hammond ignored him until he ripped the report form his hand. “You were, and still are, bending over backwards to keep Brett happy.â€

“That’s something else entirely,†he said.

“Right,†Smith said in disgust, “Cyberone’s your money maker. Shadow just the back up.†Rising up out of his seat he leaned in to look Hammond in the eyes, “You may think Cyberone is the end all and be all of this program. But you are the only one who actually believes that. I’m just glad Wells had the guts to stand up to you on that matter.†Hammond started to say something but Smith cut him off, he was on a role now, “And before you start threatening to take it to the general let me tell you something. He and I had an interesting conversation about it a few months back. And he sees Ryan as an equally important part of this program. In fact he was quite amazed at how much Ryan has been ignored around here.â€

“He can be annoyed all he wants,†Hammond retorted.

“You may want to rethink saying that Hammond, and you can call him up yourself. In fact I’ll dial the number for you. But he’s given me the authority to pull military support from this project if I think you are mismanaging the situation.†He wanted to play that tidbit a little closer to the vest but this had been coming for a long time. And the look on the other man face was more than worth it.

“You wouldn’t,†he sputtered.

“Do anything that’s going to hamper the efficiency of this operation, or create an atmosphere that would create that situation and find out,†he said. “Now if you will excuse me I have to write letters of condolences to the families of them men you think are expendable.†He left without another word. Thinking about it as he entered the elevator he realized that wasn’t the most professional he’s ever acted but he needed to get that out, he felt an ulcer starting to form he was keeping it in so long. But he was going to keep an eye on Jennifer just in case he did try to under mind thing.

-----
A week after the invasion they held the funeral for Ricky Taylor. Masterson footed the entire bill, yet still kept it a low key affair. He took the blame for everything, trying to upstage Eagle Corp. One of his last acts was to resign his position as CEO, to take affect right after the funeral. Ricky’s parents sent Brett a letter asking if he couldn’t come to the funeral if he could at least send a video message to be played. And he did so, talking about how Ricky will be missed and how he respected him over the short time he knew him. Ryan walked into the church in the middle of the service and looked around. Seeing a man sitting alone in the back he went and joined him. When the man wouldn’t acknowledge him Ryan softly said, “I thought you be here.â€

“I’m sure I don’t know what you’re talking about,†he said, obviously trying to disguise his voice.

“Try that with somebody who doesn’t work in the background for a living.†Brett shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “So what’s with the get up?â€

“I didn’t want to take a chance the media would focus on me,†he admitted. “I know Hammond spin doctors were ready to jump on it. It would have been disrespectful to Ricky. Besides I already told his parents that and let them know I was here.â€

“Oh my God you’re maturing,†Ryan joked although he was still caught off guard a bit.

“So why are you here?â€, he asked trying to get the spotlight off of him.

“Same reason you are,†he told him, “paying my respects.â€

“He was a good kid,†Brett said. Ryan silently agreed. “He didn’t deserve to go like that.â€

“They never do,†Ryan said solemnly. The funeral finished with Ricky’s father giving the final eulogy. As people started to follow the casket out of the church Ryan and Brett held back a bit. Ricky’s parents stopped by them briefly and thanked Brett again for showing up and repeating how much Ricky looked up to him. Brett looked embarrassed and gave them his actual number incase they ever needed anything. Ryan didn’t say anything but he was wondering where Brett was hiding this side of himself.

Outside of the can’s phone started vibrating. Jennifer was calling and for some reason he got the impression this wasn’t a personal call. “Hello. Yeah he’s here, just like we thought. Uh-huh. How soon?†Brett raised an eyebrow realizing what the call was about. “We’ll be there as soon as soon as we can.â€

“So what now?â€, Brett asked.

“Zac caught a cluster of meteors coming this way on the long range sensors,†he explained. “He wouldn’t have said anything but he said the number and size was the same as the other the Scarzarians used to infiltrate the planet based on the scans he was able to get a hold of. Smith wants you there in case it is.â€

“So either their trying again or this batch was launched before they got word their plan failed.†Brett sighed a bit then got his usual cocky expression on his face, “No rest for the wicked. Come on Anderson time to do what we do best.â€

“What you do best is mug for the cameras,†Ryan shot at him. Brett gave him the finger as they headed for their cars.