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Jasonian
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Ruins of Jasonia Palace
Sep 1999
time: 00:13
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Iota Station
Ventilation Ducts access pathways
Time until EMP detonation: about 9 minutes
The three drone probes dashed along the third level access pathway, with the voice of hill command guiding them, “That’s right… now up ahead there should be a ladder. Take it three… no… two flights up, and then proceed in the opposite direction you were just heading.”
“Copy, hill command. How many more… levels until we are…at the governmental sector?” said Venus breathlessly.
“The lowest level of the sector is only three above you, but you want the one with the main council room. That is six more levels up. So you have 9 more to go, counting the two you are about to accent.”
“That’s… too far. I don’t think we can make it… before the bomb goes off.” Venus remarked. She had quickly scampered up the ladder and was dashing toward the next with her team members in close pursuit.
“Don’t worry about it. You’ve gone up 4 levels in about two minutes. At this rate, you’ll make it there with a couple minutes to catch your breath. Ladder! You passed it Venus. Go back, and take that ladder up three floors, and then keep going in this direction.”
“Copy that… hill command. Up three.” Venus wheezed as she began to climb.
************
The probes panted as silently as they could. They were sitting right near the proper grating. Below them was the first of three security checkpoints. Between each of them was a long hallway that could be sealed if necessary. After that, the council rooms.
“Ok Venus. You guys should get in position now. We predict that when the algorithm is shut down, those hallways will seal soon after. Jump down on our mark and run for it. 15 seconds after we tell you to, the EMP will go off. Got that?”
“Understood hill command. We are in position. But how will be get through all this?”
“The first checkpoint should be too surprised to stop you. They’ll seal the hallway, but you’ll already be on the other side. You should arrive at #2 right when the blast goes off, so they won’t be able to stop you either. Checkpoint three might have recovered by the time you get there, so you’ll have to make this fast.”
“Got it. Awaiting jump time.”
“Ok…5-4-3-2-1… NOW!!”
As with every other entrance during this mission, the probes crashed down through the grating and found themselves before a checkpoint similar to the one they had passed through back in the tower. Luckily, the falling grating had stunned one of the guards, and the other was too surprised to move. The probes made a run under the arch and into the hallway.
“Wha… stop!… er… SEAL THE HALLWAY!!”
As expected, the guards began to seal the hallway. But the probes were already too far into it. They made a roll under the falling synthsteel door and quickly got up. Behind them, they heard the sounds of laser fire in the sealed hall.
“FREEZE!”
The guards at checkpoint two were all poised to blow the team away. The probes stopped, and the head guard approached them. That’s when a small beep emitted from Venus’s wrist. The Cyborgs all clutched their temples and fell to their knees in either agony or confusion. The probes didn’t ask which feeling was in their heads, and began to dash through the second hallway.
Hill command definitely knew the algorithm’s logic functions, because, as they had predicted, once again the synthsteel doors fell. This time, however, the probes were farther from the end of the hallway. The first probe rolled safely under, and Seline followed. But the door’s falling speed increased, and Venus was trapped on the other side.
“NOOOOooo….” Seline screamed. She pulled out her zapper and fired at the door. This time, they heard no laser fire, nor Venus’s death scream. She was still alive, although trapped.
“Seline!” yelled the other probe. “Help me get this thing open!”
“That won’t be possible.”
Both probes whipped around and saw a Cyborg in flowing teal robes, flanked by about a dozen Cyborg soldiers.
“Your weapons. Throw them down now. We know what you can do with them… that’s right. And throw your knives down too.” The probes sombrely obeyed.
“Good. That was logical of you. Now, tell me this: who are you?” Neither probe said a word. “Hmm… this is not logical of you. I can tell you this: we will not harm you if you answer us right now. And you can easily see that, with or without your weapons, there is no way that any of you could finish whatever you came here to do, or even leave this base alive. Now talk. Next time I ask, it will be in a punishment sphere.”
Seline softly said, “We are free drones.”
The leader nodded, “Better. We already knew this, of course. But you are telling the truth. I advise you to keep doing so. Next question: why did you disable The Algorithm Tower with your energy wave weapon?”
“We… we did that so we could get here. So we could take over this base.”
“You thought that you could somehow force me to transfer control of this base to your weak faction? Intriguing… foolish, but intriguing. Next question: why –“
At that moment the door behind the two probes opened, and a flurry of lasers fire came shooting out, killing the entire group of Cyborg soldiers. Venus, hill command, and the other 6 probes stood there, faces rigid, all pointing their lasers at the one in the teal robes.
“What… but HOW? Impossible!!”
Venus laughed, “You machines fail to understand the adaptively of the human brain. Now, I think you have to die, and we have a base to take over.” With that, she shot the teal robed Cyborg, which crumpled to the ground.
“Venus! How did you get the door open?! And where did the rest of the squad come from!?” Seline excitedly asked.
“Ask me again sometime. Right now, we have a base to seize!” The probes all passed through the final door and entered the control room.
“Ahh… victory! OK people, let’s go. Empath group, you need to ‘convince’ the leaders of the military forces here to join us. Hill command, get on the com and send this all back to Domai. I’ll work on some security codes. I want the AAA Chaos guns in the base operational from this room, and someone has to man the radar. Let’s go!”
************
Free Drone Central council chamber
“And that’s… pretty much all there is.” Jeffred concluded. The council just stared at him, wide-eyed.
At the same instant, the entire council unfroze. Everyone started hammering things into their computers, talking to the com officers in the room, making notes, scribbling plans, and the like.
“Attention! Attention please!!” Domai yelled above the clamour. The council members turned toward him. “Sheldon, get all the needlejet groups aboard the Cloudbase except for Falcon group. We will all meet there in one hour. One Hour! The Cloudbase leaves then, so don’t be late.”
The council members quickly dashed from the room to prepare for the journey to the occupied territory.
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Captain Kirk
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Spartan Territory
near the Borehole Cluster
Major Adrian Conway descended the slope from a small knoll he had been standing on. The angle of the slope combined with the weight of his armor was forcing him into a shuffle-run. He stopped at the bottom and waited for his troops to catch up to him. Spartan High Command had sent them to look for any abandoned University buildings.
"Come on guys hurry it up" he yelled. He started to look around. Didn't want the native life to catch them by suprise. He gripped his chaos rifle and moved forward. He kept moving. This area was a small valley that High Command thought was a good location for the University to put a research outpost.
"No native life yet Major" yelled on of his Corporals. He nodded. His infrared sensors were picking up only nominal heat signs. Including them and whatever heat the suns were producing. Finally he stopped. He activated the recording datapad he had been sent. The cartographers back at Sparta Command would want to know about this.
He took a step forward and felt a peculiar sensation. Almost as if a ghost had passed through him. He also heard a strange buzzing sound. Could be the insect life or Locusts of Chiron. He was about to reach for his flame gun when he heard a gasp from behind him. That was when he noticed it. A curtain of yellow energy was all around them.
"All right guys don't panick. It looks like those UoP nerds have found a way to cloak themselves. Colonel Santiago will be intrigued to hear about this. But for now keep your eyes, ears, and sensors open. And those Yoopers shouldn't catch us by suprise" said Conway. His troops nodded all grabbing their chaos rifles. They kept moving forward.
Expecting University soldiers to jump them at any moment. Than he noticed on the horizon a cluster of buildings. They were beer barrel in shape. Not like the University tower design.
"Sir this doesn't look like a Yooper outpost to me" said Private Sanchez. Conway nodded. He grabbed his farspecs and looked through them. He wondered why it looked like a base. Then he noticed a strange symbol on the side of one of the kegs. It looked like the German iron cross.
"Allright guys. It looks like this isn't the University after all. It could be another faction. An undiscovered faction. Keep your heads up and follow me" he said. Al of his soldiers nodded. After a while Conway noticed something coming towards them. He concentrated. Then he realized what it was.
It looked like a giant mechanical spider. And there were three of them. One of them ommitted a white flash. And an explosion shook the area.
"We're under attack" screamed one of his troops. Another explosion shook the area. Conway's MMI wnet off line. He staggered. They were out of range. To far way to shoot at. Then he was thrown forward. He looked around groggily. He blacked out.
- - - - - - - -
Colonel Corazon Santiago stood with Major-General Connor Nehm. Agents Shell and Donovan stood before them. After successfully downloading 100 energy credits form the Morganites they were being promoted to Commando status. Nehm who was the commander of Spartan Intelligence stepped forward. He shook both their hands.
"Well done gentlemen. You have made Spartan Intelligence proud" he said. Both men saluted and the Major stepped back. Than Santiago stepped forward. She had a grim look on her face.
"Gentlemen I have an assignment for you. This may be a difficult one. Our neighbor Provost Zakharov has signed a Pact of
Brotherhood with Brother Lal" se said. Both men nodded. She continued.
"I want you to find out exactly the reasons. Both factions are currently using Knowledge values. Though they claim to be researching for pure advancement of wisdom I believe otherwise. I want you gentlemen to find out wether they are collaberating on a covert weapons research program or not" she said. Both men nodded. She shook their hands and dismissed them.
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 08, 2000).]
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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1200 hours
Construction Site: Data Angel Space Command, Secret Hollow
“Tell your people that they are doing a great job. I never knew we could produce this much infrastructure so quickly, without additional outside support.” Sinder said pleasantly to Spirit as they watched a couple dozen or so individuals working on the super structure of the soon to be Space Command building.
“Thank you, but our little secret weapon are those little guys over there, which were designed by Zebra’s technicians.” Spirit replied as he pointed to several robotic machines doing different tasks at the foundation of the building. “Those little guys do the dirty work, which lets our own people spend their time on the very tricky and delicate materials.”
“Excellent… I even hear Zebra likes the astrophysics laboratory you guys built for them. They started testing several isotopes and fuels for our launch system yesterday, which keeps us ahead of schedule by several weeks.” Sinder said, as they started to walk back to the command center.
“That’s good news Sinder, but we still have a very long rode ahead of us. But, with some luck and the fact that the sapper robots continue to bring up resources from the boreholes, we may accomplish this awesome task.” Spirit responded and took a drink from a water bottle he was carrying.
“Well if the Drones can do it, we certainly can.” Sinder laughingly replied as they neared the Command Center. The fact that the base was so small and compact, was a blessing in the fact that the different buildings were within a short walking distance. Sinder hated using the monorails of Data DeCentral and Morgan Industries to get where she wanted.
They both stopped when they saw Beetle, who was running towards them quickly, coming from the Command Center.
“Sinder!” Beetle said but stopped short as he regained his breath from the run.
“What’s wrong Beetle?” Sinder asked, as Spirit gave Beetle his water bottle, but was politely rejected.
“Virus… um… she… well… her beacon has gone blank. We were tracking her through a Peacekeeper GPS satellite, then all went blank. The beacon was directly corresponding to her heart and respiratory rate.” Beetle said rapidly, although it came out more like one large sentence.
“What do you mean blank, did the satellite go haywire? Perhaps they found out about our satellite tap and shut us out.” Sinder replied, although a bit confused.
“No… the satellite is working just fine… we double checked.”
“Perhaps the beacon on Virus’s body malfunctioned.” Spirit offered, although he had no probe experience and was unaware of the great reliability of beacon systems, originally developed by Morgan Industries.
“The beacon registered a quick increase in heart rate… then it dropped to zero.” Beetle said as he and Sinder lowered their heads in tribute of their old friend.
Spirit looked at his two new friends confused, still wondering why they didn’t believe that the beacon could be malfunctioning. It was ironic that Virus had been kicked out of the council by the election of Spirit, in place of her. Although, Sinder and Beetle didn’t hold it against him.
“Did you get any other information before her death?” Sinder asked to Beetle, but was disappointed at his declining nod.
“Everything was working as planned… I just don’t know how they could have caught her.” Beetle hated the feeling of not being able to save his friend.
“Do not dwell on it Beetle, we will lose many friends in our lives on this wasteland of a planet. We will also have our revenge in time, but we have a bigger problem now. Tomahawk is still out there with his precious information intact and theirs no way we can stop him from giving them our location.” Beetle and Spirit were stunned out how calm and unshakable Sinder was over her friend’s death, yet they understood that a leader must not let emotions take over. “Do we know the Peacekeeper’s headquarter comlink frequency?”
“Yes Sinder. What are you planning… your not going to give them our frequency are you?” Spirit replied a bit perplexed.
“I am not going to give our frequency away to anyone… Although I need to write a one-way message… I will explain latter.” Sinder finished and jogged off by herself towards the Command Center, leaving her two friends standing their baffled.
*********************************************
Sent to Comlink Frequency: 777Blue (Peacekeeper Command: Lal)
Error: No return Frequency
Subject Header: Retribution
My name is Sinder Roze…
You know I am out there… You also know that I am dangerous… Yet, you hunt my people and I…
You have taken a friend away from me… She will be missed and honored… Now, I will take a friend away from you…
If you continue to hunt me… you will also be nullified… as you have nullified my friend…
Knowledge is Power
End transmission
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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1245 hours
Secret Hollow
Cloak Field Perimeter Patrol: Vega One
“Base Command come in… this is Vega One.”
Datajack Brain Soloman hated routine patrols, but the fact that he was the first individual to pilot the battle ogre in active defense duty made it worth while. Although testing was still being done, recent events in Data DeCentral has made the council feel that accelerating the program of incorporating the ogres into the active defense structure was well worth it.
“Go ahead Vega One.”
The cockpit of the battle ogre was filled with tons of computers and sensors to actually translate what Soloman was actually performing on the controls, into the Ogre’s original programming language. Only Zebra and his select few researchers/programmers could have translated the ogre’s computer language this quickly into a usable code. Although it stilled used 1’s and 0’s, in laymen terms, the different patterns and symbols were radically different.
“I got something on my sensors… several moving human forms approaching the outer field.” Soloman responded as he dried the sweat off his body from being in the machine for over an hour. Apparently, its original designers hadn’t designed their system around the human body’s perspiration system.
“Roger that Vega One, we see them on our scopes also. Don’t leave the field… hold your position and notify us if they continue there trajectory. We will notify the council.”
Its my luck that this happens on my patrol…
“Command, I have a problem… they have just stopped at the perimeter field… they may have realized that the field is actually there. Orders?” Soloman nerves strained as he his HUD zoomed to see a dozen or so soldiers standing just in front of the field.
“Council member Clark confirms that you have authority to attack if they penetrate the field… they must not report back to their support bases… we will start jamming them on all wave frequencies.”
Datajack Soloman flipped the protecting glass cover on top of the trigger up.
“Roger command… Authority to attack if penetration occurs Received.”
Soloman continued to watch the individuals from his zoomed in display, hoping that they wouldn’t be heroes and try to penetrate the field. But, his hopes were dashed when a large man put first his foot and latter his whole body through the field, giving him a full view of Secret Hollow, although from a distance.
“Command they have penetrated… Commencing engagement…”
Soloman put his pointer finger on the trigger… than pressed in, leaving his own innocence behind him. The drone of the reactor on the ogre became silent as a buzzing sound began to emit from the forward weapon systems.
His whole forward cockpit filled with white light, then regained its dimness as the first energy projectile reached its target.
*********************************************
1255 hours
Command Center, Secret Hollow
Sinder’s personal room
Sinder sat in her chair with her arms crossed on her desk. She had just finished her so-called retribution letter to Lal, and began to drift off in the memories of old times. But, to Sinder’s disliking she was brought back into reality as Clark, or Junior, ran into her room, without even knocking.
“Sinder, we got a problem… it’s the Spartans.”
People say that you can read a thousand words in a picture. Sinder’s face was a portrait of agony and frustration… always a problem to solve or a threat to defend from.
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dante^
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Singapore
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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M.Y. 2235
Safe Haven, Nautilus Pirate Headquarters
Around the conference table, voices were raised in protest.
"A land base? This is ridiculous..."
"I do not believe this!"
"Captain, this is completely contrary to our beliefs. I urge you to reconsider your decision immediately."
Captain Ulrik Svensgaard raised both of his arms to silence the protests. "Calm yourselves, gentlemen. I had the same feelings as you did when Admiral Jenberg first suggested the idea of setting up a land base. However, all of you should listen to his explanation before we continue."
Admiral Karl Jenberg rose to his feet and cleared his throat. He entered a series of commands into the console in front of him and a massive 3-dimensional holo-projection of Planet appeared before everyone.
Jenberg gestured to the holo-projection as he spoke. "As all of you know, our faction only has three bases, all of which are located at sea. This is a great advantage to us due to our naval strength. In the event of an invasion, the enemy will have to face us on our own terms.
"However, we cannot just sit by idly while other factions consolidate their power on land. Our infiltrators have reported that hostility between other factions have increased greatly, and it is inevitable that we will be drawn into conflicts apart from the current vendetta on the Cybernetic Consciousness.
"Therefore, the importance of establishing a foothold on land cannot be ignored if we are to launch an effective offensive against hostile factions. The second reason for my proposal is that despite having obtained the plans for the construction of needlejets from the Cyborgs, our seabases are not suited to support a massive airforce due to the massive costs needed to construct landing strips or control towers on the water. Hence, in order for us to have a strong airforce, a land base will be required."
Admiral Jenberg nodded to Svensgaard and sat down at the table.
"You have heard Admiral Jenberg's reasons for proposing a land base, gentlemen. Does anyone have any opposition to his proposal now? Rear-Admiral Milstein?"
Rear-Admiral Daniel Milstein did not look like a military person at all. His slight figure and spectacles made him look as if he would be more comfortable in a library than on board a battleship. Despite his appearance, he had proved himself in many an occasion, and commanded a certain amount of respect among the senior officers among the Naval Corps.
"Captain Svensgaard, I have to remind you that we are a naval faction. If we decide to start building land bases all over Planet, will we not abandoning what we believe in? Our home is the sea, not on land, and we cannot allow ourselves to stoop to the level of the other factions, who bicker over whose territory belongs to who and start needless vendettas."
"Your worries are well-founded, Rear-Admiral Milstein. I assure you, we will not become a land-based faction. Our home is the sea, and will always be. The main reason for the construction of a land base is to support a viable airforce as well as ground troops which can be used to launch a counteroffensive against hostile factions from the air and land as well as by sea."
Svensgaard rose from his seat. "Due to the importance of this expedition, I will be leading the colonists module along with Admiral Jenberg. We believe that there is sufficent land near Mount Planet to set up a land base without infringing on Free Drone territories. This is a relative distance from our bases in the Sea of Mnesimache, but I do not see any major problems."
"Has Vice Admiral Rawlings returned yet?" Svensgaard turned to the Ensign seated to his left.
The Ensign glanced at the datapad in front of him. "I'm afraid not, Captain Svensgaard. Vice Admiral Rawlings' leave extends to the end of the week."
"Very well, Rear-Admiral Milstein, you will take charge of the Maritime Control Center until Vice Admiral Rawlings returns or until we return. That will be all. Dismissed."
****************
Alpha Prime, Cybernetic Consciousness Headquarters
Night was falling over Alpha Prime.
Phelan Ward put down the book he was reading. It was a theory on Fusion Power written by some Doctor Gamma Thinker or something like that. The book talked about how the tremedous energy used in bombs of enormous destructive power could be controlled and harnessed to create a clean, powerful and effective source of energy.
Phelan yawned. The book was extremely boring but it had the effect of keeping him busy for a couple of hours at least.
Inwardly, he was slightly unnerved at how quickly the Cyborgs were discovering new technology. He had read about plans of battleships and cruisers dated back to the time when the Nautilus Pirates were still using skimships.
Another part of him was relieved that the Cyborgs had not actually discovered the secret of Fusion Power yet. The theory was just that, a theory. If the Cyborgs did discover Fusion Power, it would mean better weapons, quicker and more durable vehicle chassises. If this did happen, the Cyborgs would surely win the war with the Free Drones and then go on to destroy the Pirates.
He sighed. Perhaps this was really what would happen. He would spend the rest of his days in Alpha Prime. He toyed with the idea of joining the Consciousness but dismissed that idea instantly. If he did that, he knew that he would become nothing more than a pawn controlled by the Algorithm.
The seemingly overconfidence of the Cyborgs
frightened him. He was allowed to read about the research the Cyborgs were working on, as well as watch the Cyborg infantry when they were training, even though he was a prisoner. It was like the Cyborgs were certain that he would never be able to leave Alpha Prime.
He had heard of trouble at one of the Cyborg bases called Iota Station. He had no idea what it was all about though. Military matters were one of the only things he was not allowed access to.
He prayed that it was the Pirates coming to save him, but deep in his heart, he knew that this was impossible, as was escape from the Cyborgs.
****************
Safe Haven, Naval Yard
Svensgaard watched from the deck of the Dreadnought as the massive colony module was loaded onto the Cruiser Transport. He became aware of someone behind him.
"Oh, hello, Thomas. Have you managed to
remember anything yet?"
Rear-Admiral Thomas de Bilde joined Svensgaard on the deck.
"I'm afraid not, Captain Svensgaard. I wish I could, but I really can't."
"Do not worry, my friend. Your memory will come back in time."
"I hope so. I really wish I could be accompanying you on this expedition, Captain."
Svensgaard smiled wryly. "I'm sure there'll be other opportunities in the future."
A shout from the Cruiser Transport signalled that the Colony module had been loaded with no problems.
Rear-Admiral de Bilde left the Dreadnought and walked down to the dock. He smiled broadly and waved as the Dreadnought and the rest of the escort for the Cruiser Transport began to move away from the Naval Yard.
The smile did not leave his face even long after the ships had disappeared far beyond the horizon.
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dante^
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Singapore
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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AAA Chaos Cruiser Whiplash
The Sea of Unity
Near Free Drone Borders
Captain Kanejiro was bored. Patrols were never fun. Especially after Svensgaard had ordered that the raids on the ships belonging to the other factions be stopped.
Now, they had to avoid those fat Morganite transports whenever they came close. Kanejiro spat into the water in disgust.
"Hey Cap'n! Got a message coming in from The Maritime Control Center. You better come look at this!"
* * * Begin Transmission * * *
Transmission Codex: 00Z9845P
To: All Nautilus Pirate Ships
From: Vice Admiral Bernard Rawlings, Acting Commander, The Maritime Control Center
Captain Svensgaard has made the decision to revoke his previous orders. These orders are now issued through myself due to Captain Svensgaard being away on an expedition to set up a new base.
All Nautilus Pirate ships are now once again authorized to raid the transports belonging to the various other factions. The recovery of Alien Artifacts, as well as documents containing technology unknown to our faction
will be handsomely rewarded.
* * * End Transmission * * *
[This message has been edited by dante^ (edited January 10, 2000).]
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Raging Mouse
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Finland
Oct 1999
time: 07:13
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Location: U.N. Court of Justice
Welles points down at the stains on the floor.
"This is where she died. Did you know her?"
Tomahawk is silent for a long time, neither denying or confirming. He seems to peer at the stains through half-closed eyes, rythmically clenching and unclenching his jaw. Meanwhile, Welles is silently informed from the technicians behind the false wall.
">He definitely knows the person who tried to assault him, sir. We got peaks on virtually every graph at the moment you first showed him her picture.<"
">Thanks, guys. What's he doing now?<"
">The readings are inconclusive, but I'll wager my career that he's adding a name to the mental file marked 'dead'. Also, he is doing some real furious thinking. Neurons flaring like fireworks. It's raising the temperature of his brain quite a lot, too.<"
Tomahawk looks up at Welles. "No, I can't remember ever seeing her."
He receives a dull look from Welles. "Was she someone close, mister Greenburg?"
(">Heyy, nice shot, major! He definitely doesn't like being caught lying!<")
Tomahawk gives Welles a dark look. "How did she get here? I thought this building's supposed to be impenetrable!"
'Bad move, sucker. I can use this topic against you as easily as the last one', Welles thinks. "I can guarantee you- no probe team we know of can reach you here."
Tomahawk is about to speak when his brain gives him a prediction on what the obvious retort will lead to. He hesitates, and is silent for a moment.
"What you mean is, you designed this building to specifically counter the modus operandi used by those probe-teams you are familiar with?"
"That's correct. And I must tell you, we have had live tests. Usually one or two infiltrators, with a handful of backup in the vicinity. But this woman came alone -with no backup we can trace. And she made it look easy."
Tomahawk simply nods, apparently deep in thought. Welles continues.
"We have dealt with probes from all the old factions, and she's not from one of them. The Free Drones have told us that all Cyborg citizens have implants of a certain kind -and this probe does -did- not have any. Most of the Free Drones still have barcode -ID's; nowadays it's almost a matter of pride. She didn't. And the Pirates simply aren't this sophisticated. So all that remains is that the Data-Angels still survive somewhere."
Tomahawk looks away. "And if they do?"
"Then they will be much more successful the second time they try. I must tell you; Lal thinks that secrecy is immoral -what a surprise- and our overall security is dreadful as a result. Since they have seen the inside of this building we must assume it's unsafe, but moving you would be even more risky. We can't let you 'disappear', because we are Peacekeepers and we don't do things like that." Welles almost sneers now. "Your only hope is that we can find them before they find you again."
(">Careful, Major. He's about where you want him now. Don't push him more or he might decide to risk not telling you out of spite<")
Tomahawk grabs one of the chairs and sits down. He sighs. "And what if I knew where they are?"
(">Well allright, maybe a little more won't be that risky...<")
"Then you'd be a damn fool not to tell me. We've got quite a dossier on this Sinder Roze -person. Your previous subjects at U.N. Humanity city are almost religious in their beliefs about her. They say she'll write a few bars of code, and alakazam! -Data Decentral is back in her hands. She has become a legend! There's a black rose on every flat surface that can be reached by a teenager. And again, because we are the Peacekeepers and believe in the freedom to express oneself, we do nothing about it. That is, nothing about the rebellious mood in Humanity City. We'd do lots about Sinder Roze if we'd know who and where he or she is."
"It's 'she'." Tomahawk seems to regain some of his confidence now that the decision is made. "And I think I know where she is. But I won't tell you until you can guarantee my security."
Welles shrugs and smiles. "Plausible deniability is a wonderful thing, isn't it? We simply won't tell Lal. And, hah yes, alakazam! A world of opportunities opens up in front of us..."
Location: U.N. Headquarters, Pravin Lal's office
Lal lets his gaze shift from one monitor to the other. One shows the report from Major Welles of security, the other shows the brief message from Sinder Roze. Lieutenant-General Zhu sits patiently in front of the desk. Eventually the commissioner leans back and massages his eyes.
"One question, Zhu. What will we do to mr. Greenburg?"
"He's enlisted into the Peacecorps' strategic division. We'd rather not have him there, but he'll prove a valuable asset. He's shown special interest in strikes against the Data Angels, which is understandable. We gave him a new identity and face, contrary to your regulations. I'd rather not tell you more."
Lal's expression speaks volumes about his appreciation of this.
"You think you will be able to control his.. ambitions?"
"No, probably not. But I'd rather have him close than see him disappear to, say, the spartans. They could use his -ah, drive- much better than we. And that would be bad."
"Right. We don't trust him, we know he's a powergrabber, so that's allright." Lal glances momentarily back at the monitors. "Now, about this other message. Knowledge is power, it says."
"Yes, indeed."
"It's too short to determine anything specific about it's origins. It could be some hacker with a grudge -other than Roze, I mean- or some psychotic, Planet knows there are lots of those about these days, or it could be the real thing. Or any combination of those."
Zhu nods. "Whatever it is, the sender has access to heavy-duty transmitters. We of course tried to triangulate for the source, but the best I can tell you is that it wasn't from close by."
"So let's assume it's the real thing. What can we do to improve security?"
"Easy. Construct covert-ops centers in every base."
"Yes, I guessed you would say something like that."
"I'm serious. There IS another way, but it would cost about as much as half again the project U.N. Headquarters is currently working on.. the Merchant Exchange?"
"No, we won't have another of those megalomanic projects in a long time. They ruin our economy."
"Well, then."
"Allright. I'll issue orders to all bases that don't yet have any C-O Centers to add them to the schedule. How many are there now, by the way?"
"Two. Here and at U.N. Court of Justice."
"Right." Lal brightens. "Fortunately, we might not have to build that many. This problem might disappear before any of our cities process their build-queues that far. Tell me, is it confirmed?"
"Yes. The Borehole Cluster has vanished. They have cloaked it, obviously."
"Good, good. It is time for Sinder Roze to suffer the fate of all cowards."
"And that is?"
"Why- They all get caught in the end!"
Zhu stifles a chuckle as he rises from the chair. "Yes, of course. Whatever was I thinking?"
Lal snorts. "Make sure our resident University ambassador receives both the report and the message."
"At once, Commissioner." Zhu exits the office.
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Bearcat
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Oregonia
Dec 1999
time: 05:13
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Forest Primeval
Colonel Michael Harlem stood facing a rank of soldiers. They were all dressed in green armor. The Gaian symbol was printed on their left brest. And all of them were holding chaos rifles. This was the latest division to be sent into Morganic territory. Deirdre was confident in victory. Now that she was jamming Believing theories and ideas down their throat.
Harlem had accepted the new ideas. But that was onl yto save face and remain in his postion. He knew many high ranking Gaian officials had been replaced when they refused to side with the new Fundamentalist regime.
"Left..right..left right left" he yelled out the marching routine. All of the soldiers snapped into position and marched towards the transport. One of his soldiers broke into cadence. Harlem knew that now Deirdre (taking a cue from Miriam) wanted her soldiers to sing "Onward Christian Soldiers". However Harlem preffered the old Gaian marching drills.
"Keep it moving" he yelled. He silently knew that over half of these soldiers wouldn't come back home alive. Morgan had vastly improved his defense since the last battle. He knew that the new religious fervor was supposed to power their troops. However he just didn't trust the ideals.Somehow, someway this would all end.
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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1300 hours
Morgan Interstellar
Warehouse District 1-3-5 Red Sector
Specter and Master Kurita stood standing in front of a dark ebony colored door. It’s polished finish made it shimmer throughout the illuminated hallway.
“This is the door Master?” Specter, or ‘specimen 01’, asked.
“Yes, this door will take you outside. Do not be scared my student.” Kurita replied, still feeling the love a father feels for his son.
“Is the outside world really like what the simulations showed me?” Specter asked as he swept away little particles of sweat, which had formed, on his forehead.
“I sense your fear.” Kurita stopped and turned to face Specter. “Remember your training… you have gifts these humans never have dreamed of.”
“I know… Will I ever see you again?”
Kurita turned back again, facing the door. “No, but I have taught you everything. You are the Master now.”
“I will succeed… your honor will be maintained.” Specter said as he grabbed the old fashioned doorknob.
“You will succeed. Just remember to judge your actions adequately. The council will demand many things from you… never do anything that goes against your ideals.”
“I will.” Specter turned the knob and walked out.
The sun’s rays beamed hard on him, almost causing him to take a step back into the hallway, but he refused to stop. As he got used to the harsh light and took several more steps, he noticed that he was in an alley filled garbage and filth. He saw that the alley led to a large street, which was filled with people.
Specter turned around when a large banging sound came from behind.
The door is gone… My home… is gone.
Suddenly words appeared in front of his eyes, as his optical contacts received and processed their first bits of information. The orders he had been waiting for from the Apex council.
*********************************************
Specimen 01
Mission Password: Intrepid
Proceed to Morgan Interstellar Airport: after arriving at destination: board flight Baker001: Destination: Great Zion, Believer Territory
After departure off aircraft: Travel to Location 05,11 grid 18, known as the Borehole Cluster
Retrieve at Destination 05,11 grid 18: Three Alpha113s, or known by local inhabitants as “Battle Ogres”
Authorized to bring back Alpha113s with any force necessary
You will bring back all three Alpha113s to Great Zion: deposit them in Warehouse District 3-1-2 Lord’s Angel Sector
After completion: Await new Orders at Warehouse
Estimated Resistance: Light: Population known as Data Angels
If capture: Activate Self-Destruct: program Omega
Estimated Mission Timeframe: 4 days-3 hours-12 minutes-45 seconds
Apex Council
[This message has been edited by Cotroneo (edited January 09, 2000).]
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Jasonian
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Ruins of Jasonia Palace
Sep 1999
time: 00:13
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Cloudbase council room
Seas to the north of Mount Planet
Travelling north to Iota Station
The Free Drone Nation’s council was about to begin. Venus was still absent, of course, and James Sheldon was in the command deck on the floor above to run the base. Hain was also gone, choosing to remain at Free Drone Central to continue his work as governor. This left Domai, Malcolm, Jeffred, Atlasia, Rockmore, and Newman.
Domai began, “This has been an interesting couple of weeks. Our fourth base has been founded, our military projects are nearing completion, including our “conventional” missile at Living Standard, and finally the seizure of Iota Station yesterday. It is time we finish this council meeting so we can concentrate on the affairs at our new base.”
“Miss Atlasia, I believe you had something you wished to bring up?” She nodded. “Very well then. The floor is yours.”
Atlasia rose, “Our technological progress has been slow. Due to the fact that we focus more on producing what we can instead of researching what we don’t have, and the fact that our labs our small and under-funded, I feel it is necessary to take measures to ensure we don’t fall too far behind in this ‘tech race.’”
“The way I see it, we have three options: we can construct new advanced labs at our bases, we can increase government funding for our science program, or we can switch to the “Knowledge” values.”
The council groaned. This is all they had they had heard from Atlasia since the faction had started. Even Domai looked bored with the topic, but he said, “None of those options are very appealing, but I feel it is time we enacted one of them. We shall vote on which option to enact. I have already talked to the absent council members.”
The council gasped. Rockmore jumped up, “Foreman! You can’t be serious! At a time like this, we must concentrate on building up our military might! An extensive science and research program can only hurt us at this time!”
“I disagree Rockmore. What happens when the other factions get new weapons, or new armor, or new sources of power, and we still have our current technology? How many people must we send to their deaths before we change? None. The decision has been made. It is not under discussion. Please vote now.”
The council murmured at Domai’s hard stance. They had not seen Domai talk this way for quite a while. Rockmore fell back into his chair defeated, but couldn’t help admiring Domai’s strict and commanding stance with the normally unruly council.
One by one, the council members rose and delivered their votes.
Domai, “The Knowledge values would increase our efficiency and labs. I vote for values.”
Malcolm, “Changing to knowledge would increase our relations with the University. I vote for values.”
Jeffred, “New labs represent a more permanent solution to this problem. I vote for labs.”
Atlasia, “Extra funding is useless without high-tech facilities. I vote for labs.”
Rockmore, “We can not slow our bases with expensive labs, nor compromise our security with the Knowledge values. I vote for more funding.”
Newman, “Raising funding would take away from psyche funding, which is how we maintain control, and knowledge would hurt our security. I vote for labs.”
Domai pulled out a note, “The votes from the other council members are as follows: Venus: more funding, Sheldon: values, Hain, values.”
“The totals are: more funding: 2 votes, new labs: 3 votes, Knowledge values, 4 votes. It is settled then. When we return to Free Drone Central, the change will be announced and conversions will begin to the Knowledge values.”
The council murmured their reactions to this turn of events, and Domai said, “Now, we will review the build queue at Coral Warehouse. Rockmore, deliver your –“
~~ Council room: BRACE FOR IMPACT!!!~~
The council members dove to the floor seconds before the room violently shook. Domai climbed to his feet and hit the com on the table, “Sheldon! What is going on up there?!”
~~ We’re under attack! The Cyborgs are launching missiles at us!!~~
“Missile interceptors? Launch our interceptor and shoot them all down!”
~~ Negative Domai. Not missile interceptors. Missiles. And lots of them. The jets would have no effect. We’re trying to shoot them down with the base guns, but that one got through. ~~
Domai cursed, “Sheldon! Why didn’t you tell me sooner?!”
~~ Because I’m trying to shoot down missiles, sir! … Oh my god! Domai! You and the council have to get to the hangar bays and board an escape jet. I don’t know how long we can hold out, and you have to survive! ~~
“But… Sheldon…OK people. You heard him. Let’s go!” The council members broke into a sprint toward the hangar bay stairs. A floor up, Sheldon was starring into a sea of missiles, all aimed at him and him alone.
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Raging Mouse
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Finland
Oct 1999
time: 07:13
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Location: U.N. Headquarters
"..Captain Manuel Cormora, the U.N. Badge of Exemplary Service."
Manuel hears the applauds as if from a distance. Reacting purely on practice, he comes to attention and takes two brisk steps forward. He then turns to the right, and marches towards Captain-General Steppleton. She salutes. Manuel salutes. She presents him with the box containing the medal, and opens it. Manuel takes the medal and attaches it to his uniform. Next he takes the box and places it in his pocket. They both salute. Manuel turns left to face the audience, and the reporters, then left again. He marches back to his position along the row of officers, and returns to his place. Another name, and the man to his left goes through the same ritual.
One wild night later.
Manuel massages his temples to stop his head from exploding. He is waiting outside the room of one Colonel Moore, who will brief him on what is to come.
At nine o'clock, precisely, the door opens. Manuel rises and walks briskly into the room. He stops in front of a desk, behind which Colonel Carolyn Moore sits.
"Good day, Captain."
"Good day, ma'am."
"At ease. Take a seat. I can see you have enjoyed your decoration. It is in part on that matter you are here now. Also, I will give you further orders. But let's deal with the good news first, right?"
"Suits me fine, ma'am."
"Good. Let's see now.. With your first decoration comes additional bonuses; different for each medal. A purple heart earns you some R&R, and the 'Guardian of Unity'-cross gives you free longevity-treatment for as long as you like. And in between comes the rest. If you get further medals of the same kind there will be a monetary award instead, again proportional to the medal."
"Really? I didn't know this."
"That's because the army likes it that way. We then know that the person who gets the medal did it for his country, rather than the glory involved with medals. Basically, a diametrically opposite procedure than the one adopted by the Morganites."
"I understand. Has there been any seekers of glory?"
"Unfortunately, yes. But we're not here to discuss them. Now, in your case you have one of these bonuses: One; a flat in a district and base of your choosing, though not in the luxury-zones. Two; a car, assigned to you whenever you are on leave, and a permanent one when you retire. Or three; an increase of your salary, and a corresponding increase of your pension."
"That's.. wow.. great!"
The colonel smiles. "You don't have to choose now. Just remember to stay alive on your next assignment so you can enjoy one of these luxuries, allright Captain?"
"Yes ma'am!"
"Good. Speaking of which. Let's see.. ah, yes. Your company lost fifteen soldiers. Here are a hundred candidates for reinforcement; choose thirty of them. Central command will then decide the fifteen of these you will get."
"Right."
"After that, your company will participate in a simulated assault on a Hive base. It will be very realistic thanks to the MMI -implants. The purpose of the simulation is to give the veterans a reminder on combat-tactics against the Hive, and to integrate the reinforcements into the company. That way, you will be fully prepared for your next assignment, operation 'Noisemaker'."
Manuel leans forward in his chair. Carolyn continues.
"This will be one of the greatest military campaigns in Peacekeeper history. Your primary goal is to tie down as many Hive forces as possible. Secondary objective is to conquer Communal Nexus; a base that you have fought in before."
Manuel nods slowly. "Those Hive bastards have surely reinforced it even more, it being such an obvious target."
"Definitely. However, a large part of their tactics has been to deny us any chance of approaching the base. Most of their defending units are dug down in the terrain between the base and the border. You will bypass that with your airdrop-abilities. Our needlejets, and some missiles, will strive to achieve air-superiority, and the attack choppers will stop any attempts by the ground units to hit you in the back. You should only have to deal with the few ground units inside the base."
"That's no walk in the park nevertheless."
"That's why we're sending the best we have."
"Right. Anything else?"
"No. Good luck, Captain. Dismissed."
Manuel walks out of the room.
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Captain Kirk
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University Base
Agent Patrick Donovan ran down the street. He looked up to see a couple of University Enforcement guards coming towards him. They were lightly armed with shredder pistols. Donovan had a chaos pistol. He chose not to use it. He ducked down an alley. He flipped on his quicklink. He dialed Shell.
"Yeah Pat, Shell here" crackeled the voice n the other side. Right now Shell was on the other side of the base. This was a classic Spartan strategy developed by Santiago herself. By not grouping probe agents together they increased their success rate by 20%.
"Look Tris this place is swarming with UE. I might not make it into the labs. You've got to try and make it on your own" he said. A bum wandered by reeking of fungal gin. He coughed once and gasped for clean air. Then a reply came through.
"Allright I'm right outside the Network Node. You stay were you are. I'll call you if I need backup" said Shell. Donovan noticed an old bottle of imported Morganic booze. Desperatly trying to look like a bum he wandered out into the street. The Enforcement guards barely glanced at him.
"Hey I'm inside. Keep me linked" said Shell.
"I'm accessing their main computer terminal. I've got their files. Boy I would like to get some research data from these weak ass bastards" quipped Shell.
"You know what our assignment is" replied Donovan. He heard a grunt from the other end. Shell was working fast.
"Nothing so far. A bunch of files on new techs or theories. Wait what's this. Something called Organic Superlubricant. Hmm. Looks harmless enough. Nothing" he said. Donovan knew that there probably wasn;t anything. But then again Santiago showed signs of paranoia. And everyone seemed to think that the Spartans were xenophobic.
"Okay I don't see anything let's get out of here" said Shell. Donovan dropped the booze. Although these UoP freaks were vulnerable to probe action they could catch teams. So he hurried down the street.
"Boy I fell sorry for these Yoopers if a Believer team were to get their hands on these files" said Shell. Donovan didin't reply. He just smiled. They were to rendevouz at the magrail station. Then it was on to Peacekeeper territory.
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 10, 2000).]
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Barshy
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"Damnit! How do they expect us to compete with Morgan if they keep slapping us with environmental regulations?" cursed Mr. Jeffreys, CEO of The Lord's Cure, an expansive pharmaceutical company.
"Sir, please refrain from using filthy language," reminded the CEO's secretary. Normally, no one would talk to his/her superior that way, but Believers always exercised their right to preserve moral righteousness in whatever means possible.
"Yes... thank you. Hmph. Well, at least finally we can get those tree-crazy protesters off our back." He leaned back in his leather chair, ruminating.
"In fact, the Lord could be using this to our favor. We could get an edge over the Morganites... Secretary, get me the Marketing Director." CEO Jeffreys always called his subordinates by their titles instead of their names. It probably helped reinforce his position of power.
A few minutes later.
"CEO, you wanted to tell me something?" answered the Marketing Director.
"Yes... As you know, these recent environmental regulations are hurting our production. However, is there a way we could launch an advertising blitz boasting about our care for the environment, or something to that effect? It could give us the edge we need over our Morganite competitor."
"Sir, it might boost our profits in Gaian territory, but I don't know about our domestic markets. Believer citizens are rather indifferent to what happens to Planet..."
"Marketing Director, I never made it in the real world without taking risks. We can afford it. Run an ad blitz for a few weeks and let's see if God's hand will bless our sales," CEO Jeffreys responded with a tone of finality.
Relieved that the burden was placed off his shoulders, the Marketing Director complied, and left the office.
***************************************
New Jeruselum
Sister Miriam was in good spirits. Finally, after years of prayer, Lady Dierdre had finally found the Lord... Yet, Miriam had to admit she was surprised that Dierdre had converted so quickly. Somehow she didn't know how easily Gaian society would adapt, but she placed their fate in God's hands.
She had to now face the inevitable. Now that they were pact sisters, she had another impending war on her hands... One with CEO Morgan. The tradeoff was that Dierdre would declare vendetta against the University, and perhaps now the deadlock would be tipped in Miriam's favor.
As far as this new Cultist faction, Miriam remained unworried. Though the impending doom of Judgement Seat was imminent, Cultist "soldiers," or mindworms, or whatever those spore-sniffers were, would never make it to the mainland. Any attempt to do so would result in immediate eradication. The diplomatic ball was in Cha Dawn's court.
She stood up, and was about to walk over to her private quarters for morning prayer, when the screen behind her bliped.
A yellow triangle was on the screen, with the word "Morgan" underlying it. How typical, Miriam thought.. Only such a meglomaniacal selfish fool would use his name to represent his people.
Saying her usual quick prayer, she pressed the commlink button, and the familiar face of Morgan appeared on the screen.
"Sister Miriam, how have you been? I hope your economy is robust and your companies are flourishing," greeted Morgan, with a smile Miriam could immediately tell was filled with pride... Pride at his achievements, self-worth measured by the amount of energy tokens in his reserves. A typical business-man like smile, ready to manipulate dimwitted minds into the losing end of any negotiation.
"It is difficult to flourish when our competitors resort to shameful and immoral business practices to line their pockets with tainted gold. Nevertheless, our businesses derive their satisfication from their trust that the laws of God are more pleasant than the business laws of exploitation," Miriam answered cooly.
Morgan laughed heartily. "You haven't changed a bit, my good Sister. I know you are a woman who likes to get to the point, so to the point I shall go," Morgan started in his usual regal manner.
"Your so-called Pact Sister, 'Lady' Dierdre Skye and her tree-crazy fanatics continue to spit in the face of your God by continuing their Planet-worshipping economics. Perhaps you would like renounce your friendship and sign a treaty with me?" Morgan offered.
Such a straightforward offer, Miriam thought. She already knew the answer, but decided to play this negotiation on Morgan's terms.
"CEO, your point is remotely valid. However, abadoning my pact with Dierdre is utterly dishonorable, since she is now a fellow believer," she responded, then smiled. "Nevertheless, what would you offer me if I were to take your suggestion?"
Again, Morgan laughed. "Now that's what I like to hear! Every man or woman has his price. Very well then, my offer is 2000 energy credits."
Miriam was taken aback. She wasn't going to accept any offer anyways, but she wasn't prepared for this. 2000 energy credits?? Did Morgan truly have that much energy? According to the last infiltration report, Morgan only had 1500... Perhaps he had ways of concealing his true wealth from even Miriam's superior probe teams. After all, secrecy is the key to getting the upper hand in competition.
Such energy would allow Miriam to quickly recruit and improve her military strength... imagine the possbilities.
However, with a reflex ingrained in her heart for hundreds of years, she realized that Morgan had appealed to her love of money, and this love, this root of all evil, was taking her over at this moment.
"No, CEO Morgan. I will not accept her offer. In fact, I would suggest you make truce with Dierdre before I am forced to honor my Pact and declare vendetta upon you," Miriam answered with her holy resoluteness.
Morgan shook his head. "It is Dierdre who has pressed this vendetta, and it has helped me realize how badly I need to rid Planet of her kind before the lucrative business plans of my followers and others are strangled by those tree-crazy lunatics."
Morgan looked down, and Miriam noticed that he had changed since she last saw him on the Unity. Such anger in his face, she noticed. No longer was he in charge of a company, now he was in charge of a faction, and no longer could disputes be settled with contracts or lawsuits. Disputes now had to be settled with physical force.
"Sister Miriam, I pronounce Vendetta upon you. It is truly sad that you have decided to follow Dierdre's path to poverty. Morgan out."
Miriam sighed. Another vendetta on her hands. Perhaps her pact with Dierdre was not such a good idea after all, for she could begin to imagine the various spheres of influence on Planet shifting back and forth, escalating into a world war that her old friend Lal sought so hard to prevent.
An appropriate time, therefore, for her morning prayers. God would take care of everything. No matter what happens, in the calm or the storm, God would be there for His followers. No matter how many vendettas embroiled in, God would be on their side. And God would grant them victory.
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Jasonian
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Ruins of Jasonia Palace
Sep 1999
time: 00:13
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The Cloudbase Academy
Command Deck
Sea to the north of Mount Planet
“Scanners! Report!”
“The first wave of missiles has been destroyed with only one impact, Captain Sheldon. We have the second wave on scopes now. ETA:… 56 seconds.”
Captain James Sheldon nodded. Outside the command deck’s shielded window, he could see that wave two. The missiles were coming fast, and it would not be long before the base’s heavy chaos guns lashed out to try to destroy them. That meant the station would start to spin again. He was already feeling slightly ill, and the rotations were not doing him any good.
“Roger that scanners. Com station, I have a message to engineering: when we signal, I want this thing moving ahead full.”
One of Sheldon’s advisers spoke up, “Sir, that might not be wise. The energy we use to increase our speed might take away from our crucial shield and weapon reserves.”
“That’s true. But we can’t stop these things all day. We can assume we will be shot down before they run out of missiles. If we increase speed, we have a chance to find and destroy the source of those missiles. Is the wide-range EMP cannon online?”
The adviser nodded an affirmative and said, “Yes, but we would deplete our energy reserves if we use it. By the time we could recharge, we would be blown to pieces by any missiles in the sky. I suggest you not use that unless we are very close to the source.”
The wide-ranged EMP cannon wasn’t much more then a controlled EMP bomb detonation on the Cloudbase itself. Extensive shielding prevented damage to the base, and the shockwave would travel quite a distance. Although it would simply scramble computers at the range they would use it at, the idea was to disable the target momentarily, thus letting the chaos guns concentrate and destroy them. It was risky using that much energy, but it seemed fairly reliable.
During their conversation, the second wave had came into range and was being blasted away. This time, two missiles got through. The base shuttered, and Sheldon pitied the poor council members trying to make their way to the hangars. No doubt, they had been thrown to the floor once more.
“Damage report!” Sheldon barked.
“Antigrav functioning normally. Shields strained but not failing. Weapon systems are still untouched. Computer reports slight damage to the wide-range EMP cannon, although it says that it should be safe to use still.”
Sheldon and the aide exchanged a quick glance as the station lurched and the waves began to move more quickly under them. Sheldon said, “Com station: tell the pilots to get to their jets. They might need to make a hasty lift-off.”
“Copy that Captain.” Said com station. “Oh, we’ve received confirmations from the escape jets. Domai, the council, the students, and the researchers are all onboard their respective jets and are ready to leave at a moment’s notice.”
“Captain!” exclaimed the scanner post, “We’ve spotted something on the surface ahead of us. Probing further… information received. Transmitting it to the overhead screen.”
Three of the overhead monitors came to life. One of them showed a rocky island, the second showed an isle of the deep in some rough fungus. But it was the third that mattered. On it was a Missile Destroyer, painted in teal.
“That’s it! Aim the wide-range EMP cannon at that destroyer. Fire when in range.” said Sheldon commandingly.
“EMP cannon in range in… 1 minute. Charging the cannon now.” Said the weapons station. But Sheldon commanded, “Slow us down and divert energy from engineering. We don’t need it there anymore.”
A tense minute passed, and then a blinding light filled the landscape. Sheldon recoiled and attempted to squint out. When it had subsided, he saw the wave heading for the now-visible Cyborg destroyer. Soon, the wave vanished into the ocean, leaving the destroyer motionless.
“Target disabled, sir.” Scanner added uselessly.
“Right. Divert energy from shields to weapons, and blow it out of the sea.” Soon, large chaos blasted lashed out from the Cloudbase, cutting deep into the photon wall and causing major internal damage. After only a few shots, the ship started to smoke and sink into the choppy waters as the base passed overhead.
The command deck let out a whoop of joy. The tense crew members got up and started to congratulate each other and slap each other on the back. Even Sheldon breathed a sigh of relief.. That’s when the explosions started.
“Wha… PLACES PEOPLE! Scanners, what the heck is shooting as us now?!” Sheldon yelled angrily.
“Ahh… check the first monitor, Captain.”
Sheldon ran back to the monitors and saw that two chaos skimships emerging from a cave in that rocky island. ‘Son of a… two more ships?!’ “Right. Shields up! Weapons charged. And launch Talon and Razor groups to go sink them the old fashioned way.”
“CAPTAIN SHELDON! Priority message from engineering! That blast damaged the antigrav devices! We… we’re going down, Captain!!”
Sheldon turned to look at the increasing size of the waves, his eyes filled with terror and his face, dread. He knew that the base could survive a water landing and float until repairs could be made on the antigrav devices, but all their hangars, chaos guns, and shield generators would be underwater. If they recalled the jets now, they could safely dock, but they would be sitting ducks. On the other hand, if they launched everything, they could save the base, but they couldn’t re-dock. Free Drone Central was too far back, but Iota Station…
“Jet command: calculate the fuel requirement to land safely at Iota Station for the escape pods, and do it now!” Sheldon commanded.
“Umm… well… I don’t know exactly how much fuel it would take, but I’m fairly certain they could make it.”
“Jet command! I don’t have any use for your guesses. Tell me exactl—“
The aide spoke up again, “Captain Sheldon. There is no time. Make your decision before we crash!”
Sheldon looked torn between the decision to possibly crash his air force into the ocean or to keep them on the base; safe but useless. “Launch all of our remaining jets, including the escape pods. Begin repairs on the antigrav devices. And brace for impact!”
As the defeated skimships joined the Cyborg destroyer at the bottom of the sea, the Cloudbase splashed into the seas and bobbed there like a cork. Overhead, the escape pods and the Talon, Razor, Blade, and Yoop bomber groups began the long trip towards their new territory.
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Barshy
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New Jeruselum
"Agent Wyvern... Agent Wyvern!" hissed the University transmission.
Elizabeth, eyes like a zombie glued to the task at hand, awoke from her trance. It was one of Zakharov's colleagues, the one in charge of the Weapon.
"Elizabeth, the biological component of Weapon must be disabled. Zakharov... discovered I had been playing around with retroviruses and reprimanded my research. Unfortunately, our pact with the Peacekeepers restricts us from such atrocities. Many research facilities have already disposed of any signs of biological warfare, as the Peacekeeper inspection teams have begun poking their noses into our labs." The bitterness in his voice was apparent to anybody.
"Command received," Elizabeth replied monotonously, and clicked off the transmission. She didn't know whether to curse or to sigh with relief at this latest news... Regardless, she had to obey.
She reached over a disabled the virus release switch.
******************************************
Safe Haven
"One more please," Don ordered the bartender. For the first time in his life, he had tasted alcohol. Violently repulsed at the sight at first, now he couldn't get his hands off it. This particular version was called "rum" by the locals.
The other probe team members shifted nervously. In classic Believer fashion, they would have "called him out," which meant rebuking him for his drunken debauchery, but they had just accomplished their mission, and felt Don was justified.
Don stared at his fifth cup of rum. The "Pirates" they were called. He laughed. It sounded like characters from a storybook. Nevertheless, after studying their datalinks, he knew they shouldn't underestimate their power. Afterall, these Pirates managed to capture so many ships.
The spirit of individualism appealed to Don's sense of adventure. Often times he disliked the restrictive nature of the Believers, of Miriam, the Ministers, and even Elizabeth. He felt free, yet his faith told him that God was the only source of true freedom. He could never lose that.
Just a few more days, he thought. He loved Safe Haven.. The people were a bit brash, but they were fun. He already made a few friends, who weren't afraid to show him a good time... But, he noticed, his fellow probe team members weren't having such a good time, and for their sakes they should return home soon.
Upon introspection, Don figured he should be going home too. The one thing he felt he lost here at Safe Haven was that sense of home, and family, which no one here seemed to care about. Don had no family, but he had friends. And... Elizabeth was back. He could not wait to reunite.
"Let's go," Don told his probe members in a half-drunken state, and wobbled out of the bar.
*******************************************
Gaia's Landing
Lady Dierdre Skye once again stood in front of those windows that could see all of Gaia's Landing. This time, she saw more than mere trees and plants, but a working Being that created them all.
Her spirits had suddenly revived these past few days... For the first time in her life it seemed, she was no longer working at her cause alone. She had God, the most powerful force in the universe, by her side. By her side to punish the Morganites for raping His creation.
Opposition to her latest changes was rife, but she knew they would come to see the light eventually. The existing churches throughout Gaian territory received federal funding for the first time. The endless vendetta demoralized her pacifist followers. Through faith, Deirdre reasoned, her followers would make it through this time of warfare.
"Lady Skye," came a familiar voice behind her.
She turned around, and looked into the face of Sister Miriam. Ever since becoming pact sisters and sisters in Christ, they had free and open communication.
"Dierdre, I am pleased to report that I have declared Vendetta upon our mutual enemy, CEO Morgan. I trust that you will reciprocate by pronouncing Vendetta on Zakharov so we can put an end to his murderous 'research.' Sorry for this short conversation, but I have little time, so I must go. May our Pact of Sisterhood endure forever, Lady." She smiled, and the screen turned black.
Dierdre stopped. She saw this coming a mile away, but for some reason was a little shocked at this development. Thank God Miriam hadn't pressed Dierdre for a decision at that moment.
After finding God, Dierdre knew He would support her cause against Morgan, but she had forgotten that a Pact with Miriam would entail another war against Zakharov, pact brother of her pact brother, Pravin Lal.
She was unconcerned with Lal. The only reason they were in a pact was because he was so precariously close to her territory. She definitely respected his humanitarian initiatives and was indifferent about his quest to unify the factions.
Zakharov was different. She never hated him, but had always distrusted him. After all, she had worked under him during the course of the Unity, and time and again was annoyed at Zakharov's tendency to throw all aside for the sake of his research.
What would Zakharov say? Obviously he knew about her pact with Miriam. Should she contact him or wait for him to contact her? Miriam would surely want vendetta declared soon... Moreover, if embroiled in a vendetta with Zakharov, how would Lal react? A war against Lal would spring the Peacekeeper tiger to the south into action, pouncing on her bases. Would peaceful Lal do such a thing?
Her mind was in torment... The ball was clearly in her court. She hoped the God she placed her trust in was real, for now only God could solve this entangling mess.
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Barshy
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New Jeruselum
The time has come...
Elizabeth gazed out the windows atop one of the towering spires of the Main Cathedral. The main capital of Believer territory was one of the most magnificent bases in Planet. Teeming masses of people, robust industries and glimmering commercial malls filled the dense downtown center.
A pity... Elizabeth thought. Soon, all that was before her eyes would be decimated. Those Believing fools would experience first-hand the powers of science.
And best of all, Sister Miriam would finally taste death... She would finally experience the afterlife she had been preaching about for hundreds of years.
Elizabeth minimized contact with Sister Miriam as much as possible, for fear that her piercing eyes would detect a change in Elizabeth's character. Thankfully, Miriam granted Liz a two week leave of absence for "recovery."
"Liz."
She whirled around. What do you want? "Oh! Sean... you caught me by surprise."
"Liz, I'm on lunch break right now. You want to join me for lunch? We can have it that... 'room' we used to always hang out in.." Sean smiled.
No... Not the room. Only a few more hours..! Sean cannot find out... Then she smirked. "Sean, I've eaten lunch already... let's postpone our lunch date until tomorrow. How's that?" By tomorrow you'll be dead.
"Um... sure," Sean replied. He then turned to gaze out the window with Elizabeth for several silent moments.. The best part about their relationship was they could sit still for hours without saying anything, yet appreciating every minute of it.
Elizabeth shifted nervously. I can't risk blowing my cover... I'll just stay here for an hour or so...
"Isn't it beautiful? Hey, remember that?" Sean pointed down to a little cafe down the street. "We had some great conversations there.."
Yeah, I remember.
A few more moments of silence. "Elizabeth." Sean turned and looked into her eye. No.. don't look into my eyes...[i] "I've changed... Ever since your capture.. I've learned how to take responsibility. I've learned to be direct, how to be a leader... Just like you've always wanted me to." [i]Stop looking into my eyes.
She is so beautiful, Sean thought. "I've missed you so much. And it's time I stopped taking you for granted. You've taught me so much about myself, about my weaknesses, and you were always there to support me when I needed it." Get this feeling out of my head.
He got down on one knee. No. Not now. "Elizabeth, we've known each other all our lives. We've been through both our parents' deaths. And after all these years, I've always loved you." A tear rolled down Elizabeth's cheek. Pain.
"See? I'm not weak anymore. I can tell you directly. I'm not scared. I love you. And I know you love me... I'm not as oblivious as you think," Sean smiled, staring into her eyes.
These tears won't stop... Sean, how can I tell you you're going to die...
"Elizabeth Wyvern, will you marry me?"
The words penetrated into her eyes, and melted into her heart. Suddenly, she felt a familiar shock run straight through her system... dissipating her thoughts.. NO. Can... not let .. chemicals.. erase..
"Elizabeth? What's the matter? Elizabeth! Elizabeth!!"
Elizabeth. His words continued piercing into her, battling the surge of checmicals the University planted into her. Outwardly, she shook violently, but inwardly, she was calling upon the power of the Lord.
Can't... defeat.. me... God.. help.. me!
Suddenly, the shocks through her system stopped, and for a moment, so did her heartbeat. Her eyes froze, and she fell to the ground.
"Elizabeth!! Wake up!! Oh God..." Sean moaned, shaking her, brushing her hair from her face.
After a few seconds that felt like eternity, her eyes fluttered wide. Oh God. Where am I? Her former identity returned to her... as if God had exorcised the demon that was possessing her. Suddenly, a flood of memories inundated her soul.. the capture, the interrogation, the chemicals, the bomb. The bomb!
Five minutes. Five minutes until the bomb would be set off.
She stood off and looked frantically into Sean's eyes. "Sean!"
"Liz, are you..."
"No time to explain. Hurry!" She grabbed his arm and ran down the hallway to the staff elevator. Underground... underground it would be safe.
Tears streaming down her cheeks, she envisioned the thousands of innocent Believer citizens that would soon meet their Maker... All because of her. No. The University.
Could I deactivate the bomb? she wondered... but apparently after she was free from the University chemicals, her optical implants that relayed University information was automatically shut down, and she could not access the password that would shut the Weapon down.
Finally, they reached the underground command room. Pulling Sean behind her, she went to the center of the room, and knelt to pray, hands shaking...
"Sister Miriam! Where is she?" Elizabeth asked, panicking.
"Um... she's on her way back from Fishes and Loaves... She was there to welcome Governor Esau and the refugees from Judgement Seat," Sean replied.
"Thank... thank God," Elizabeth replied.. At least Sister Miriam was safe.
And now, all that she had to do was... wait. "Sean, remember when you used to talk about the Tower of Babel, and how God could destroy this cathedral, because it was reaching up to God?"
"Um, yeah. I wasn't serious," Sean replied.
She wept silently.
**********************************
Miriam's Private Jet
En Route to New Jeruselum
Sister Miriam looked out the window. It was always good to see the old spires of New Jeruselum again...
Those poor refugees... Thankfully Esau had ordered the evacuation of Judgement Seat early. But the rest would never make it. Miriam prayed a silent prayer for the poor souls that would be fodder for Cha Dawn's mindworms...
God would protect the mainland, however. She had stationed troops in every possible corner of her territory to get ready for any land invasions from the Cult.
She looked out the window again, and saw a bright glow envelop New Jeruselum. A holy light?...
****************************************
Probe Skimship
En Route to Fishes and Loaves
After docking at the sea base, Don and his probe team would finally reach New Jeruselum. Home.
Which meant Elizabeth. Finally, he would see the woman he loved... Although with Sean there, he didn't have much of a chance. Regardless, he loved to be around her.
"You see?" Don pointed to the horizon. "Look, you can see the Main Cathedral from here!" Sure enough, the spires of the main cathedral stretched heavenward. Reaching God Himself... Don thought.
As if in response, the spires were quickly bathed in holy fire.
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Captain Kirk
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Sparta Command
Colonel Santiago walked briskly down the hall leading to the largest building in Sparta Command. The doors swished aside and she entered. The guard on patrol saluted stiffly and she nodded. She walked straight into the command room of the Command Nexus. Raised over 50 years ago it was one of the greatest Spartan achievements since Planetfall. General Kabila looked up from a console he was at.
"Good day Colonel" he said formally. Santiago nodded cooly. She surveyed the room. Still unchanged. Lights flickered on various computer consoles. The large megascreen at the front of the room loomed over everything.
"You wanted to see me General ?" asked Santaigo impatiently. The General's call had interrupted her holo-meeting with Dr. Bonaventura, head of psi research. Kabila nodded and motioned for her to follow him.
"Recently one of patrols was detoured into a small valley. They had been instructed to look for any abandoned University structures" said Kabila motioning to the megascreen.
"They were recording data and feeding parts of it back to our cartographers here at Sparta Command. To help us make a better and complete map of our territory" he said. Santiago didn't see were this was going. So she simply smiled and nodded.
"After this point all contact with them was lost. No vital signs, no new data, no calls in. Nothing" he said. Santiago wasn't sure what that could be. A patrol just dissapeared ? She answered.
"It could be mind worms" she said. Kabila shook his head vigorously.
"No it's definently not native life. Their transmissions showed no signs of native life in the area. We even uplinked with one of our sky farm satellites. Using it as an "Eye in the Sky". And it showed nothing" he said. Santiago inwardly flinched. If all this was true than what had happened to that patrol ?
"Very well General. Send the new Tiger Squadron to see if they can find anything" Santiago said. General Kabila nodded. Santiago strode out of the Command Nexus. She could still catch the 12.50 skytrain back to HQ.
- - - - - - - -
Tristan Shell sat at the back of the transport. He and Donovan were on their way to U.N. Headquarters to continue ongoing study of the Knowledge values. The Spartan Federation had long ago made the Power values choice. Leaving them with the best military on Planet. A Bengali man entered the cabin and shouted.
"We arrive at U.N. Headquarters in two hour. Have your passport and clearence card when you disembark" yelled the man in broken English. Shell looked at his own clearence card and passport. Apparently he was one, Victor Pachinsky. A University researcher.
I guess Santiago counts that the Yoopers and PKs will exchange scientists. Shell leaned his head back and fell asleep. When he woke up everything was bustling. They were pulling into U.N. Headquarters. Go time thought Shell.
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 11, 2000).]
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Bearcat
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Oregonia
Dec 1999
time: 05:13
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Dawn of Planet
Cha Dawn's Office
"So it's confirmed Prophet ?" asked the commander. Cha Dawn sat back in his seat and nodded. The screen flicked off leaving the Cultist symbol on the screen. Cha Dawn had ordered a monumentous event to take place. This could either be the turning point in the war or it could be their undoing. He just hoped that Planet would guide him to do the right thing.
The Believing base Judgement Seat had been evacuated of most of the population. However the longterm effects would be the same. For Cha Dawn had ordered their gatling unit to return to Childhood's End. And he had dispatched their X gatling unit to rendevouz with his forces.
Nerve gas was a horrible thing. To watch the victim writh in agony as the deadly vapors seep into their skin is almost to much for even the most hardened soldier to watch. However the Believers had chosen to use and abuse Planet for their own gain. All the while worshipig their invisible God.
He was going to teach them a lesson they would never forget. Soon the Beleivers would know what a mistake they had made.
+ + + + + + +
Commander Torbin Ren stood on the treads of the X gatling unit. They were speeding to meet the other Cultist forces stationed at Childhood's End. When Cha Dawn had decided to use their nerve gas no one had questioned. It wasn't the Cultist way. Cha Dawn was guided by Planet. So if Planet ordered it than no one could question.
"Sir we are approaching the other units. The group will proceed at 0600 tommorrow" crackeled a voice over the unit's intercomm. Tommorrow the Believers would become eternally locked in a Vendetta with them. Atrocities were no laughing matter. And nerve gassing a whole cluster of innocent civilians was a bad one.
But if Planet had wished it than they couldn't not carry it out. Ren watched the accelerator. Every klick faster was one click to closer to the moment. Maybe they could slow down ?
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Raging Mouse
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Finland
Oct 1999
time: 07:13
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Location: U.N. Headquarters, Commissioner Pravin Lal's office
A soft chime makes Lal look up. The holoprojector comes to life, and displays the University of Planet -symbol. Lal stands up and walks to the projector.
"Computer, open the channel."
An image of Zakharov, dressed in a white lab-coat as usual, appears. He is sitting on a wooden bench, surrounded by flowers. Birdsong can be heard.
"Greetings, Commissioner."
"Greetings, doctor! How are you? Did you receive the report I sent you, regarding Larry Greenburg's interrogation?"
"I'm well, thank you. Yes, I received the report." Zakharov raises his eyebrows. "A most resourceful people, these Data Angels. My orbital cameras had detected the disappearance of the Borehole Cluster, but it was considered a minor anomaly, to be investigated when it was convenient."
Lal nods. "We hadn't even bothered to look at the orbital snapshots from the Boreholes until Tomahawk gave us a reason to do so."
Zakharov turns his head and looks at a point off the projection, and nods. Instantly, the scenery changes to a snowy mountainpeak. A constant wind howls, and clouds speed by far beneath the doctor. Lal is used to these surprises by now, and doesn't even blink. Zakharov continues.
"Commissioner, I am contacting you now because I have inspected our overall technological progress, and I have found that there is indeed an opportunity for trade."
"Excellent! So, what do you have in mind, doctor?"
"You lack the information necessary to build second-generation power-plants, also known as Fusion Power. We lack the sophisticated techniques you have developed to interface more efficiently with complex machinery and electronics; we lack the Mind/Machine Interface. I am now suggesting a simple one-for-one trade. Know that fusion technology will revolutionize your warfare, economics and your further research."
While Zakharov talks the scenery changes once more. He is now sitting on a fence, overlooking a sunny plaza. In the background a black vehicle rolls slowly by, and the waving occupants are cheered by spectators on both sides of the road. The moment Zakharov stops speaking, chaos erupts around the car. Lal ignores it.
"I happily agree to the exchange." Lal bows. "I hope you will benefit greatly from the fruits of our research."
Zakharov drops down from the fence and returns the bow, amidst people running around hysterically and screaming. "Likewise, pact-brother. My sentiments exactly."
The scenery changes again, this time to something familiar to Lal. Professor Zakharov now appears to be standing in the middle of the bridge on Unity.
"By the way, what is the purpose of the.. scenery?"
"It's edutainment."
"Ah. Right. Well, was there anything else?"
"No, this was all. Until next time, commissioner."
The projection is replaced by the slowly rotating symbol of the University, and then the holoprojector turns itself off. Lal makes the necessary arrangements for the exchange.
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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Paul ‘Raptor’ Cotroneo’s Perspective (Italics)
1330 hours
Command Center, Secret Hollow
Something must be up… Sinder looks anxious.
“I’m sorry for disrupting you, but I’m sure resent advents justify my protrusion.” Sinder proclaimed as the last council members floundered into the circular room.
“What is wrong Sinder, I was in the middle of an important experiment with the ion propulsion systems for the satellite launch system?” Zebra asked, with a fake look of concern on his face.
Sinder refuses to sit down… this could be bad.
“As you all know, we decided to place the mk1 battle ogre into our defense structure to test out its viability in our military structure. Well… perhaps if you see the incident first hand, you will understand better what has happened. This vidclip is from a camera placed on top of the mk1.” Sinder finished and brought up the vidclip on the holo-projector for the council to see, as the roomed dimmed.
The entire council lunged forward their heads to see the holo-projector from close up. Sinder replayed the entire battle scene with the Spartan patrol, without even editing the clip for gore. The entirety of the council took a step back as the awesome power of the battle ogre enveloped the severely under protected Spartan trooper, almost dissolving his whole body, with the exception of his head.
What have we learned to control… a monster. Humanity should not have this much power, and certainly not three of these unnatural beasts.
“The enemy is eliminated. I knew they would be excellent guardians. I’ll give my programmers the great news.” Zebra said as the room lighting came back to normal levels in the room.
Zebra, you are so foolish. You don’t know what your stumbling around with.
“Sinder, was the entirety of the unit destroyed? We may have a severe problem if they are able to talk to command of their discovery.” Asked the ever-vigilant Junior, as he loaded the vidclip directly into his own datapad for reviewing latter.
“The fungus that surrounds the entirety of this valley prevents us from deep scans, but we feel confident in the total eradication. Although, with out a doubt, they’re supporting bases will soon notice their missing unit.” Sinder replied as she finally sat down into her chair.
Spartans… just add that to our enemies now. I’m sure those Spartan soldier’s families will understood when Sparta Command tells them that their son or daughter just disappeared.
“This is a dangerous time, especially with strange reports out of University Base and Peacekeeper headquarters that may relate to our position here at the Borehole Cluster. We are also unaware if Tomahawk has given our position away.” Beetle commented, still a bit distracted over his friend’s loss at the hand of the Peacekeepers.
“I have given that some thought over the past few days. Perhaps we can give these UN troops a greater risk at home, and perhaps delay there search and or attack of this instillation.” Sinder suggested with a poisonous tone to the others.
I see she still has a grudge against the Peacekeepers, over Virus’s death. As if it was there fault for protecting their own prisoners. I thought she had changed for the better after she came to this base… perhaps I was wrong.
“What do you have in mind Roze.” Spirit asked, a bit alarmed over Sinder’s manner of speech.
“Since almost the beginning this century, the Peacekeepers have been in a deadlocked war with the Yang’s atrocious minions as we all know. I say we tip the balance.” Sinder answered, continuing to use her ominous tone.
I have a bad feeling about this.
“There is no way we can intervene militarily Sinder, unless you have several thousand loyal troops your not telling me about.” Junior jokingly interjected into the conversation.
“You continue to look at warfare in three-dimensions Junior. You must open up your mind to the less obvious ways of warfare, which we Data Angels are known for throughout the net.” Sinder replied and took a short breath as she turned to face the entire council. “I believe if we can supply the Hive government with adequate technological support… notably fusion technology, which we got our hands on at the beginning of this year. This would surely frighten the Peacekeepers into keeping most of their units on the home front, and even enlisting the University into the fray.”
We… Sinder? Last time I checked, I was the one who got the technology out of the University capitol… or do you forget Richmond death…
“It can be done secretly if the council fully agrees. It will be simple for me to ‘transfer’ the files necessary for preliminary fusion technology, into some Hive intelligence officer’s mailbox without a trace.” Zebra confirmed, obviously liking the taste of the plan.
Richmond dies so that the Hive can have clean endless energy. I should write that on his epitaph.
“I suggest a vote.” Sinder added, as she regained her more virtuous tone.
Sinder: Yes
Zebra: Yes
Junior: Yes
Beetle: Yes
Spirit: Yes
Raptor: No
The council awaited in silence as the vote tallied on the holo-projector. Sinder seemed to be lost in thought while Zebra could be described as ‘laughing to himself’ about the sinister plan. The entire council looked up at the projector as the word ‘Yes’ came up.
Forgive me Richmond for letting this happen… I am truly sorry.
“I will handle the arrangements Sinder. I will also put more specialists on implementing the other two battle ogres into active duty, especially the mark 2. We have yet to see how the Spartans will react.” Zebra audaciously said.
Things are accelerating out of control. I thought we left Data DeCentral to get away from these problems, yet we seem to have more now than ever. But, there is nothing I can do.
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Jasonian
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Ruins of Jasonia Palace
Sep 1999
time: 00:13
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Iota Station
“Commander Venus, I’m pleased to report that the last of the military leaders has… 'seen the light' in our cause. The base garrison, the chaos shock troops, and the scout rovers are all loyal to us.” The Empath probe reported satisfactorily, with a grin in her voice.
“Excellent work! Has the airstrip been prepared yet?” Venus responded.
“It’s not quite finished, but it will be before Domai lands. The drones…” she trailed off.
Venus frowned, “The drones aren’t behaving, are they?” the probe shook her head no. “I was afraid of this.” Venus continued, “Most of the population of this base is drones. We have to find a way to… pacify them, at least for the moment.”
The young probed nodded, “I understand. I’ll see what my people can do. But that airstrip WILL be completed on time.” The screen went blank, and Venus heaved a sigh.
‘Two entire days of this madness… I’ve not slept more then four hours in the past two days. Ugh… and we’re not even close to being done. These stupid Cyborgs don’t know how to think for themselves! Teaching them how to will be hard, and won’t get any easier as we push into their territory…’ Venus thought to herself. She shook her head to try to stay awake.
A converted Cyborg ran up to her, holding a sheet of paper, “Mission 4 complete. Iota Station datalinks have been opened. New technology not discovered. Map of territory discovered, although it is incomplete and only shows one additional base. Item discovered: priority urgent. Instructions: give this to you for to read.”
Venus took the paper, “Thank you… err… Iota-145-H. The time on this is only two minutes ago. Excellent job getting it to me this fast.”
“Whatever serves the greater good of the Free Drones is worth extra effort.” He responded automatically, and he turned to leave.
“Hey… wait!” he looked back at Venus. She sighed, “You served the Free Drones, that’s true. But you did a good job. You did, as a person. Extra effort will not go unnoticed. I thank you.”
“Whatever serves… umm… thank you for this compliment. I am honoured.” He squinted his eyes, cocked his head, and then ran back the way he came.
‘ He’s learning how to think. He’s learning that he is important as a person. But it will take so long before it becomes actual thought… automatic, like breathing. Still, it’s a start.’
Venus took a look at the paper, and her eyes opened in surprise, “Com officer! Patch me through to Domai’s escape pod, now!”
Domai’s escape pod
Approaching Iota Station from the south
ETA: about 8 hours
Rockmore grunted, “Ok, it’s nice that we installed these escape pods and all, but honestly, couldn’t they have been a little bigger? We’ve been sitting in these seats for almost a day now! I think I’d give my left leg to be able to stand and stretch.”
“If you gave up a leg, you wouldn’t be able to stand.” Atlasia quietly commented.
If Rockmore heard her, he didn’t acknowledge it. He grunted again, leaned back, and shut his eyes. Although it wasn’t that bad, the entire council wouldn’t be too upset if they were dumped into the seas and told to swim the rest of the way to Iota Station. Anything, as long as they get to move again.
“These pods weren’t designed to travel for this long without stopping. The extra fuel is only for longer trips with multiple stops. You’re lucky we made them this way, or we’d be back on the ‘Seabase Academy,’” explained Jeffred.
“Yeah well, it’s still unfair. At least Domai has some space to move around in his little room. We’re here stuck in these chairs. I guess it’s good to be the leader.” Newman griped.
Domai’s Quarters
“Another drink, Foreman? Shall we fluff up your bed for you? Or will you just be going out on the balcony?” Domai’s attendant asked, smirking.
Domai shifted uncomfortably in his chair, “Very funny. And I’m not that soft to need a balcony, or expensive drinks, or a bed. I’m still a worker at heart, ya know.”
The large screen in front of him cut off from the tactical plans and showed Venus’s face, “Foreman, we found something interesting in the Iota Datalinks…” she smiled.
************
“I don’t get it. What’s the big deal about some captured Pirate at Alpha Prime?” Domai questioned.
“This isn’t any old drunken sailor. This is Captain Phelan Ward!” Venus exclaimed.
“Uhh… who?” Domai asked stupidly.
Venus sighed, “If you would have read the Pirate transmissions during the Living Standard operations, you’d remember that he was in charge of a missile foil in the Pirate’s fleet.”
Domai was getting angry, “So what?! How is this guy important at all?!”
Venus’s expression was serious, “The pirates reported that that ship was sunk during their first ecounter with the Cyborg air force. Captain Phelan Ward and his entire crew, along with the rest of the fleet, including the admiral in charge, Rear-Admiral Thomas de Bilde, were all killed. All of them.”
Domai looked confused, “I don’t understand. The Pirate datalinks show that Thomas de Bilde is in fact not dead, and is back in Pirate territory.”
Venus grinned, “Exactly!!! Think about it Domai. The pirate fleet sinks. Those two guys die. Now both of them show up. One is in Cyborg territory, the other in Pirate. The Cyborgs must have captured them BOTH, and then let the Admiral go. They are at war, and unless the whole war is a cover, they would not exchange prisoners. The question then is this: why let him go?”
Sparks of realization were in Domai’s eyes, “So, the Cyborgs ‘reprogrammed’ the admiral and send it him back to do some sort of damage to the Pirate bases, fleets, or whatever. Interesting ideas… it’s quite a leap there. There’s no evidence behind it, but I’ll inform the Pirates of what we have discovered, and about your theory. I will send a message to them as soon as I land!”
Venus nodded, satisfied, “You do that. By the way, how is my other team doing?”
“You mean the one that captured the Cyborg rovers? They’re back in the Free Drone tech labs, trying to figure stuff out. But since we now have a city of them, it’s kinda useless.”
Venus quietly nodded her head, “I see… as soon as you get back, we’re going to talk. I… have an idea that could tip the scales further in our favor.”
Domai looked concerned, “It’s nice that you aren’t going to just run off this time. Tell me, does this idea of yours involve an elaborate prisoner escape plan?”
Venus just smiled and cut the transmission.
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Bearcat
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Oregonia
Dec 1999
time: 05:13
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Judgement Seat
Isle of Deinara
Cultist soldiers ran down the corridors their gas masks rasping. All around them hung the yellow cloud of nerve gas. Believing citizens were choking and gasping as their nerves forze up on them. However the pink armor of the Cult moved forward.
Believing soldiers had no protection either. They were without gas masks. So they too succumbed to the poisonous vapors. The Cultist soldiers almost didn't need to fight. There was basically no resistance. The lone Believer in his orange armor would jump into their path and open fire but that was about it.
No one was sure how the mind worms would react ot the nerve gas. So they were kept outside the base. Later after it was purified the mind worms would enter. Any surviving Believers would be asked to convert. If they didn't Cha Dawn had ordered that the base be razed.
Finally reaching the central plaza the soldiers blew away any surviving Believer warriors guarding the plaza. Than they electronically raised the Cultist standard. Now to purify the base.
[This message has been edited by Bearcat (edited January 14, 2000).]
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Captain Kirk
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Spartan Territory
Secret Hollow area
Commander Dieter Wallach sat in his rover cockpit. He glanced at the blinking controls. He set his rover on autopilot and watched the landscape go by. The crimson xenofungus gleamed in the light of the double suns. Wallach never ceased to be amazed by this planet's beauty. He considered Morgan disgusting, raping Planet for his own greedy ends. Currently Santiago was experimenting with a Green economy.
Thus they were pacted with the Gaians. Their recent switch to Fundamentalist really hadn't bothered the Colonel. Their values were what they worried about. Right now the Gaians didn't have any values. The Morganites Wealth was disgusting them. The moguls wallowed in their energy credits while the people lived in squalor. The University and Peacekeeper Knowledge values was considered a covert weapons research program. The Spartans had chosen Power values. Giving them the strongest army on Planet.
Wallach turned his attention back to the mission. Spartan High Command had sent them to discover what had happened to the missing patrol. As commander of Tiger Squadron he was the elite of the elites. Tiger Sqaudron was an elite chaos rover brigade. They ahd been following the patrol's route for two days. All of a sudden a beeping began. He looked own.
His rover's radar was locking in on
something. He started to work his control panal desperatly. Was it a homing signal ? A tracking implant ? No. It was an MMI ! He locked in on it's circuit number. 423-567-Beta. He logged into Sparta Command's central computer. He looked up MMI personnel. The number belonged to the MMI of one Major Adrian Conway.
Wallach gasped in shock. Major Conway had been the leader of the missing patrol. Wallach realized that they could be here. He opened his commlink.
"This is Tiger Leader to Tiger Squad, Report" he said. He listened as every one reported in. Tiger One, Tiger Two all the way to Tiger Fifteen. He than gave them the news.
"I've found the MMI signal of Major Adiran Conway the leader of the missing patrol" he said. He heard a crackle of conversation between his men. He put his rover into 2nd gear and accelerated. His rvoers sped afetr him. He looked up and gasped. A yellow curtain of energy hung in front of his eyes. He braked qucikly.
"This is Tiger Leader to Tiger Squad. Don't stop. Whatever this is could be responsible for our lost units" he said. He put his head back down to oncentrate on the battle ahead.
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 15, 2000).]
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Captain Kirk
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U.N. Headquarters
Agent Tristan Shell walked down the cobblestone streets resembling old town Prague. The capital city of the former Czech Dominion on Earth. He saw two Peacekeeper guards walking towards him. Both were dressed in sky blue uniforms and had the silver Peacekeeper emblem on their right brest. And they were both armed with only shredder pistols.
Shell stopped at a vendor selling bratwurst. A German food. He handed over an energy credit and was rewarded with a sausage covered in mustard, sauerkraut, and relish packed between a bun. The guards walked by and didn't even look his way. There was nothing suspicious about a man buying food. He smiled to himself. Only a couple more levels till he could find the U.N. Headquarters central data core. He smiled at them and turned away.
He took a bite and let the flavors exploed through his mouth. Was German food always this good ? Back at Sparta Command there was a Mexican resteraunt on Siege Street. But enchiladas, and tacos, and burritos were nothing like this. Then he remembered that he had a mission. He opened his quicklink and qucikly finished his sausage.
"Pat you there ?" he asked. He waited for a moment until a reply came through.
"Yeah Tris. Hey there is a great Chinese food stand over here selling things they call eggrolls. Sure beats a chalupa" he said. Shell nearly exploded over the link.
"Chinese ? They've got Chinese food here too ?" he screamed silently. Than he turned back to the sausage stand. Let's see. Mustard, ketchup, straws, aha napkins. Shell grabbed a napkin as Donovan's worried reply crackeled over the quicklink.
"Hey don't sweat it. I can probably get you an eggroll too" said Donovan. Shell threw his napkin in the trash recycler and answered.
"No. Finish your eggroll and meet me at the central datacore" he said. He heard an affirmative grunt from the other end. So Shell closed his quicklink and started walking again. He turned the corner and walked until he found an elevator to the next level. He went inside and pressed the 2 button. He waited until he heard the ding and the doors swooshed open again. He stepped out and checked everything. His Peacekeeper identity card, his retinal contacts, his gloves, and his probe tool box.
Everyhting there. He started to walk. This level was a mix of government, and recreation. So no guards pestered him yet. Than he saw the checkpoint into the governmental area. "I bet even a University probe team could get through here" he thought to himself. Using the Knowledge values had lowered the Peacekeeper security rate. So it was getting very easy to break in. Especially for a Commando like himself.
"Stop sir. We need to see you identity card" said the tall guard in a British accent. "Over 100 years on this Planet and ethnic accents still exist" he thought to himself again. He heard that there was Turkish quarter at U.N. Temple of Sol. But he had never really thought about it. Finally the guard answered.
"Very well sir. You are cleared to proceed" said the guard. The other darker obviously African guard simply nodded him on. Lucky I'm not A Hive probe team. He continued on. Passing government office after governemnt office. The datacore should be here somewhere. He wached as a drone passed by him. He was chatting with a technician.
Finally he reached the datacore area. Two talents, both women walked up to him. Was this the Peacekeepers last line of defense ? Talents ? At Sparta Command they kept a probe team on duty to guard it.
"Who are you and what is your assignment ?" they both asked. If they were Psi Talents they could catch him lying. He had to be careful.
"My name is Pierre Faroun and I'm a technician. I was transferred from U.N. Haven City a couple of days ago" he said. The talents seemed to consider this. Than they answered.
"Proceed" they said. Shell nodded and continued. He punched in an access code. The doors to the datacore swished open. He started to walk in. But before he could enter he bumped in to a Peacekeeper guard.
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 15, 2000).]
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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Specter’s Perspective (Italics)
0600 hours
60 kilometers south of Secret Hollow (Borehole Cluster)
The duel suns are so beautiful in the morning. How could humanity fight in such a beautiful surrounding?
Specter had been in the rover for twelve hours, since departing Great Zion, for the Borehole Cluster. The trip had been a wonderful experience for him, as if he was a toddler experiencing his first feelings of the real world. The interaction between certain individuals was tricky, but he felt he had done a good job so far.
The Borehole Cluster should be coming up in about a half a day or so if my speed keeps up. But, I’m still wondering what will be there waiting for me at this Cluster. The council didn’t give me much information on this Data Angel populace.
Specter stopping dazing off in thought as he was jerked around inside the cockpit by a sudden change in terrain. Specter instinctively grabbed the controls and turned off autopilot as he brought up the primitive sensors onboard the borrowed orange Believer rover.
Fungus… I should have been watching my rover’s cruise more efficiently. This fungus seems to grow rapidly, and I must remember next time to keep a good eye out for it.
The sensors finally loaded up onto the onboard HUD, giving Specter a full observation of what was around his location.
A fungal bloom… there could be mindworms.
Fungus vines, which were parallel to his direction suddenly, grew in the way of the rover. The vines, almost intelligently, went for the gear treads, clogging them up as the rover tried to run them over. The rover finally refused to move forward, as the growing vines began to cover his entire vehicle in their impenetrable wall.
What can I do… Kurita… what did you teach me. Oh yes… use my gift.
Specter looked again at the sensory board a saw a terrifying sight. The fungus was moving in certain locations, almost definitely meaning there were mind worms out there.
I must not fear… my mind is stronger
Specter sat down into his chair and closed his eyes. He could feel foreign minds searching and abutting his neuro-pathways. Suddenly these foreigners found the right memory… fear began to take over his body.
Fear…. I must be stronger. Intrepid! Intrepid!
Intrepid, was Specter’s trigger for his usually dormant mental abilities to activate. Specter forced them out of his mind, and began to attack the worm’s mind with his mental rage that human scientists had put inside him.
Planet mind…. so powerful. I must be stronger!
Seconds past by, feeling like hours for Specter as he attacked and defended the entire planet mind. Its awesome endless strength was amazing, yet it was also amazing that a human formed individual could possess equal strength.
Suddenly, as quickly as the fungus came, it retreated off the vehicle, back into a near by fungal field. As, if the attack had never happened. Perhaps planet found that he was not the Believer, his rover had printed on it.
Kurita was right, I do have great power. I must be careful when I use it again.
Specter shifted the rover into gear and set off again for the borehole cluster.
*********************************************
Specter’s Perspective (Italics)
1600 hours
1 kilometers south of Secret Hollow (Borehole Cluster)
There is nothing here, perhaps these Angel’s hide themselves or our intelligence is wrong.
Specter got out of his rover and sat on the ground of a cliff, which overlooked the valley. He could feel people’s minds. Some were dreaming while some were investigating or concerned with their occupations. As if a city was beneath him, yet hidden in a mysterious energy.
As he sat down he reached out to these people with his mind. He could feel that they were close, extremely close to be exact.
As he traveled with his mind throughout the valley, he felt the presence of a soldier. He looked through the soldier’s mind like a robber stealing candy from a baby.
Finally, he reached the correct memory. He saw the day the cloaking field went up in a ball of energy, which surrounded the base. The reason he could not see the base now.
As quickly as he entered the man’s mind, he left, returning to his own physical body.
I must make my assault now. These angels seem like good people… yet I must follow orders.
*********************************************
Specter’s Perspective (Italics)
1700 hours
Battle Ogre Armory, Secret Hollow
That guard almost saw me, but I should be safe and by myself for a few minutes at least.
Specter closed the door then looked behind him. The three behemoths that filled the room, were covered with strange scientific instruments, perhaps from Zebra’s tests during the day.
Specter walked slowly up to them, as he reached out his mind, to make sure that no one else was inside the building watching him.
Something is here… its not human. Could it be these Alpha113s that are emitting this resonance I'm feeling now. Are they alive?
“Stop!” A voice from behind him called out. “Who are you? There is no shift during the night. Turn around slowly so I can see you.”
Specter slowly turned around, careful to show no signs of using his mental abilities. Yet, the strain on his face was evident.
His name is… I must search harder… yes… there it is… Paul Cotroneo… his friends call him Raptor.
“Hello Raptor.” Specter exclaimed as if he was a long time friend.
“Do I know you?” Raptor replied perplexed, and a bit ashamed for not knowing whom this person was.
I must be careful… I must win his confidence.
“Come on old buddy…” Specter paused, and searched Raptor’s mind, learning his past and secrets. “Back at Morgan Industries… sure I haven’t see you for a while, but you all ready forgot who I am. I feel so depressed.” Specter joked comically, still keeping up his ruse.
“Now I remember.” Raptor said, although he clearly didn’t know whom he was talking to. “What brings you here, to the den of the iron beasts?”
He’s very careful and smart… He wants to learn who I really am… I must get him out of here.
“My director wanted me to…” Specter stopped short as someone came over the base PA system.
“All executive officials report to the command center, this is not a drill!” The loud female voice exclaimed throughout the base.
“…Well I guess that means you old buddy.” Specter replied confidently, secure that his ruse had gained Raptor’s trust.
“Ok… old buddy… don’t get scared over these tin animals.” Raptor still a bit confused said as he jogged out the door on his way to the command center.
That was lucky, I thought he would never leave.
Specter using his optical contacts, linked to the computer systems onboard the ogres, using the council's unique command codes.
It seems these Angels have incorporated cloaking fields onto these Alpha113s, this could make the job easier. I won’t even have to fight my way out.
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Cotroneo
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Medford, NY, USA
Oct 1999
time: 05:13
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Double
[This message has been edited by Cotroneo (edited January 17, 2000).]
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Captain Kirk
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U.N. Headquarters
Shell almost jumped out of his skin. A thousand thoughts raced throught his mind at once. What if the guard suspected him ? What if he was taken into custody ? What if everything was a trap ? However over 10 years of probe experience had taught him to steel his nerves. The Peacekeeper grabbed him by the arm and pulled him in.
"Come on Tris we haven't got all day" said the guard. Shell almost sighed with relief. It was Donovan. He took a moment to catch his breath and than spoke.
"Damnit you nearly scared the hell out of me Pat. Don't do that again. Besides were did you get that PK uniform ?" asked Shell. Donovan simply smiled. He had already accessed the datacore's files and was pouring through them. Shell took a seat. He reached down to his probe toolcase and opened it up. Than he deftly removed a disk and some other odd miscellania. He quickly inserted the disk into the drive. Than he attaced a round device to the control pad and began to turn it slowly at the top.
The security codes were passed with ease. Than he opened up the processor and the floodgates were opened. One tech after another buzzed by in front of his eyes. Social Psych, Ethical Calculus, Secrets of the Human Brain. No Conqueor techs. He kept going. Than a flash of red caught his eye. He stopped turning the device and stared at the screen. Applied Physiscs, nothing new. He began to turn again.
"Anything on your end ?" asked Shell. Donovan gave a negative grunt. He nodded and kept watching his screen. Just a bunch of old discovered techs. All of which the Spartans knew.
"Don't these Peacekeepers have anything better to do than clutter their datacore with obsolete techs ?" asked Donovan in frustration. Donovan knew just as well as Shell did though that everything came into the central datacore. However when one is frustrated things are quite a different story. Shell stood up to stretch his legs. He looked at his timepiece. Than he looked back at the datacore. How long before the Pks sent a soldier down here to kick them out ?
Shell grabbed a cup of coffee and returned to his business. An hour later things weren't looking up. And they had only poured through one fourth of the datacore. Donovan spoke up.
"Maybe the Colonel was wrong. Maybe there is nothing to find" he trailed off. Shell shook his head. Than he stopped and stared at something he had found on the screen. A picture of a missle loomed in front of him.
"Look at this. A missle. It says it uses High Energy Chemistry. No nuke I guess" said Shell. Donovan was standing behind him now looking over his shoulder. Than he spoke.
"Maybe the Colonel was right after all" he said. Shell scrolled down the page a little bit.
"Look here. It says the missle was built by a Johan Kropotkin. And it was used to destroy a Hive chaos cruiser" he said. Donovan nodded.
"The two are at war" he muttered. Shell nodded. Donovan returned to his work station. Both spent a few more hours working. Plying their devices to churn through the datacore. Finally he gasped and motioned for Donovan to join him.
"Look at this."
[This message has been edited by Captain Kirk (edited January 21, 2000).]
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Raging Mouse
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Finland
Oct 1999
time: 07:13
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Location: Near Hive's Communal Nexus
After two hours, Manuel has found, you can even get used to airdrop-flights. The watching of guidance-boundaries and the reading of thrust, tilt and wind-speed has become routine. And yet his company isn't even halfway through the great arch that their flight-path should describe. He can gaze with ease at the ground whizzing by, over two thousand meters below, or, if he prefers, he can turn across his axis a hundred and eighty degrees, and gaze at the clouds. This was spectacular to look at while Alpha A set; now they are only grey smudges in a deep purple void. And so, now, he is bored.
He opens and rereads the vast quantities of text stored within the memory-banks of his MMI. Mostly reports about the Hive; in particular the base he is about to assault. IR-images showing entrances; some meant as such, some not. The campaign was planned some time ago, but crises elsewhere diverted the attention of the Peacecorps. Now the plans have been updated; probabilities recalculated, supplies redistributed and technology upgraded. But what was initially a plan based on exact intelligence is now outdated. Some new technologies are yet untested in a genuine battle, and are therefore unknown quantities. The enemy has not been idle, and the Peacecorps don't have up-to-date intelligence anymore. All probe-teams have been called to guard their home bases.
And so on. Manuel's orders are numerous, and he has many objectives. But only two contingencies: One; do this, do that, and so forth. Two; improvise.
He wills open a comm-link to captain Steiner, of the third company.
">Einrich, have you read the de-briefs?<"
">Sure have, Manuel. A bunch of mindworm larvae eating at my brain, I think.<"
">Ditto. Looks like the bosses ain't sure what we're going to find there.<"
">That's sure. Hey, you were in those sim-assaults, right? Did you know the holo of the base came from before the Hive took it back?<"
Manuel curses of some time. ">No I didn't! What's the point of it then? The Hive's bound to have rerouted the entire complex by now. We didn't leave many upper access-ways unblocked, sure as mindworms are pink.<"
Slight chuckle is heard over the comm-link. ">You sure didn't, I hear. Anyways, there's enough brass coming with us to set up a fully functional chain of command. They'll make decisions on the fly, or at least on the run. Anyway, we're supposed to be 'resourceful and adaptive', aren't we?<"
">So what you're saying is, that we will make up the plan as we go along?!<"
">No, things aren't that bad yet, captains.<" This was a third voice, that of Major Kandue, the leader of the all three companies. ">It's just that we don't really know what to expect of the Hive. Their units have all been recycled, replaced or serviced recently. Some are even now approaching or retreating from the frontline. Seems like there has been some major refitting of units, but to what end we cannot say. The new units are almost exact copies of earlier designs, if you ignore some small 'tweakings'. Oh, and they have finally developed photon shielding, although that tech is yet on the prototype-stadium.<"
Manuel grunts. ">That's still bad news. I couldn't find that in the reports, by the way.<"
">Neither could I<" Steiner remarks.
">That's because the information was unverified yesterday evening. But this morning I spoke to the intelligence officer in charge, and he revealed to me that one of our companies had traded shots with a unit of rover-type vehicles protected by photon-shields.<"
In the silence that follows, Manuel is alerted by his MMI. There is a beep, and a male voice declares in careful monotone that the peak of the calculated trajectory has been reached. It is time to start the descent. Kandue speaks, now to all three companies.
">Now is the time to pray, if that is what you need.<" (An anonymous soldier from the third grumbles about the need to pee, and is told to shut up.) ">Now is the time for a short moment of silence, in which we shall focus on the task at hand. Ahead of us, at the landing, the battle will have raged for several hours already, as our needlejets and choppers have weakened the air-defenses of the Hive. Also, several companies have already landed.<"
Manuel tries to determine what 'silence' means when strapped to several miniature jet-engines and flying at insane speed at sixteen hundred meters. He is still unsuccessful when Major Kandue speaks again.
">Allright. I'll patch you all up to the main frequency. Let's hear what we're up against!<"
Soon the sounds of countless orders, warnings and screams issuing from Peacekeeper soldiers can be heard. Occasionally there are also actual radio-transmissions; then also the sounds of battle are heard, as the whoosh of a jet-engine, the thunder of artillery or as explosions. From all that is heard, it is obvious that the battle is truly raging.
Now the companies descend through the last layer of clouds before the ground. The comms-channel is muted as the landing is prepared. Below the scene is nightmarish. Here and there the ground glows in red or yellow, testimony of the after-effects of the chaos-weapons. The areas can be small pin-points, from the rifles of soldiers, to huge craters, from the Hive's artillery. New splashes of light appear all the time, while the old ones slowly fade away. Now and then there is an explosion, or a flash of white, as armor or shield is struck. And already the sounds of the battle can be heard; like a shouting-contest between a thunderstorm and a volcano.
Then one of Manuel's soldiers shout. ">Incoming!<"
Manuel quickly spins through a full circle, looking for whatever the man has seen. His MMI frames some dots appearing out of the clouds with red threat-rectangles. Twelve Hive needlejets. Then Manuel tells his MMI to provide him with an estimated flight-path for the planes, and is immediately relieved. They won't come anywhere near his company. Of course, now that the jumpjets are braking their fall, the soldiers are visible like beacons. With no chance of remaining undetected.
The needlejets pass by. then they break formation, and begin to turn back. But they don't turn all the way; instead they turn once again away from the soldiers. And then Manuel sees why. Out of the clouds comes a recently refitted peacekeeper missile; now with twice the bang, thanks to the breakthroughs in molecular synthesis that Fusion Power made possible. The needlejets are circling the missile, and closing in from behind. As the missile roars past not far from Manuel and his company, they open fire.
At first all shots miss. Then there is a close miss. Then a graze. The missile swerves wildly, presenting a much bigger profile for the needlejets, and several shots slam immediately into it's side. The Hive Needlejets are now only a few thousand meters away from the missile; they are obviously expecting it to explode harmlessly.
But the reactive compounds are unstable. A spark from the energies of the Hive guns is all it requires, and the chemicals ignite. First, only a small red point at the tip of the missile. Then the real reaction starts, and a large, startlingly beautiful flower of shimmering blue plasma bursts from the missile. Even in that small moment the missile is vaporized by its own payload. Then the boundary between cool and superheated air breaks, and the ball explodes. A mere four kilometers from, and slightly above, Manuel. He can *see* the approaching shock-wave, even through the air. The needlejets are already disintegrated. He wills the MMI to apply every joule of the Jumpjet's energy to gaining height. The acceleration is so strong that Manuel nearly faints, but he is now above the center of the explosion. He will be hurled up, rather than into the ground.
He initiates the emergency landing program. Then the shockwave slams into him like a train.
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Captain Kirk
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U.N. Headquarters
Central Datacore
Shell and Donovan both exchanged looks of suprise. Right in front of them stood the profile of Larry Greenburg a.k.a. Tomahawk. The former Datatech president. Shell almost let out a whoop. Wouldn't the Colonel be suprised to hear about this one. Donovan simply stared. Finally he broke the silence.
"So they got the Datatech bastard. I thought the Yoopers had 'em" he said. Shell could only nod. He needed to talk with Colonel Santiago or General Nehm right now. Could his quicklink reach that far ? He reached into his toolbox and pulled out a range modifier. After fiddling with it he opened his quicklink.
"Sparta Command, come in Sparta Command. This is Gamma Team. Do you read?" he asked. The two probes waited in silence for a few moments. Shell glanced around the room nervously. Than a reply crackeled through.
"Come in Gamma Team. This is Sparta Command" said the voice. Shell immediatly demanded for General Nehm or Colonel Santiago. The voice told him to wait. Donovan had fetched himself a cup of coffee. He sat down and began to scroll through the profile of Greenburg. It mentioned several of his feats. Including the valiant resistance against Peacecorps and the University military. Than the familiar voice of Genral Nehm crackeled through.
"Gamma Team this is General Nehm what do you want? The Peacekeepers could catch you transmitting" he said angrily. Shell replied quickly.
"Sir we have found very interesting news on Mr. Larry Greenburg, otherwise known as Tomahawk" said Shell cooly. There was a long silence. Than Nehm came through again.
"The former Datatech president?" he asked.
"The one and only" replied Donovan from behind Shell. Now Shell spoke up.
"He's being held here at U.N. Headquarters. It looks like he has quite alot of accomplishments. Including overthrowing one Datajack Sinder Roze to take control of the Data Angel faction. And bravely resisting an invasion" he said. Finally Nehm replied.
"All right I'll go talk with the Colonel and see what she says of thsi new development. In the meantime keep your quicklink open" said Nehm. The time dragged by slowly. Shell found countless ways to amuse himself. Including flipping randomly through Peacekeeper files. He opened up personnel files carelssly and poured through all their latest research. He amused himself with a Rubik's Cube he always brought with him.
He looked over at Donovan who seemed to be doing a wire tap. A particularly hair-raising moment came when a Peacekeeper technician walked in. But she didn't say anything and went about her work. Than she left. About five minutes max. Shell and Donovan btoh breathed sighs of relief after she had left. Than a crackling came over Shell's quicklink.
"All right guys I talked with the Colonel. She said that she considered this a very interesting find. You two are to use whatever tools available to steal Mr. Greenburg from Peacekeeper control. Normally you would have better resources to work with. But we didn't expect this. We're sending you a plan and rendevouz coordinates. Call us when you have Mr. Greenburg in your control and we will send you a transport. Good luck" said Nehm.
Both operatives turned to the computer and began to work furiously.
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Barshy
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New Jeruselum
A pile of massive rubble lay behind the podium. Within a radius that seemed to stretch for miles, the ground seemed clear of any trace of building material. The clearing staff did a good job in vaporizing the unsightly mess. The main center would be rebuilt.
By order of Sister Miriam, the massive rubble in the center, remnants of the Main Cathedral, were to be left there as a memorial and a rememberance to the Believers' former capital and the thousands of lives that went to be with Lord. Three Council members were also killed.
Behind the podium on the stage sat who was left of the Lord's Council, including Sean Yang.
Not like this... thought Sean. All he could remember was the deafening yet split-second explosion, as if a fraction of God's total wrath were being poured out upon the capital... and Elizabeth clinging to his shirt, crying.
All holo-video cameras were aimed at Sister Miriam, her unshaking figure standing poised at the podium.
"Fellow Believers of the Lord Jesus Christ, no doubt you experience great sadness at the calamity that has befallen us. We all know the culprit is Provost Zakharov, but I must remind all of you that our struggle is not with flesh and blood, but with the powers of darkness.
"Using Zakharov as his pawn, the Prince of Darkness has attempted to strike us at the heart of our faith, in our capital, New Jeruselum, much like he attempted to destroy Job's faith.
"But like Job we must realize God's all-encompassing wisdom. Satan cannot do what God will not allow him to do. Moreover, Satan does not realize that our faith does not exist in mere buildings, or cathedrals, no matter how glorious they appear. Thus, the rubble you see before you signifies nothing, only that as Believers we will stand up to any adversity.
"No, my friends, our faith lies within, and even the loss of thousands of Believers did not take that away from them. We should rejoice that they are finally with the Lord.
Rejoice... Sean thought... Perhaps he could bring himself to rejoice, eventually. But what about Liz? Could see ever live with herself knowing what she had done?
Sean closed his eyes, a tear rolling down his left cheek. He reached down, and held a trembling hand that was at his side. The same frail hands... Hands that were soft, hands that could always heal... Liz's hands felt unusually cold.
As he looked down at his side, he saw Liz, staring down with an unflinching gaze. Her lips were vibrating, and her skin was deathly pale. Her usually flowing hair was brittle and frazzled, and a shawl was around her body. She was sitting in a wheelchair.
When the explosion had subsided, Sean remembered Elizabeth rushing towards the stairs and climbing the 10 flights of stairs from the basement to the surface.
By the time Sean had caught up with her, she already reached shock. She could not handle the fact that she had caused New Jeruselum's destruction, and immediately fell into a brief coma.
After she recovered from the coma, she could not speak and was in the state she was currently. All Sean could do was pray and take care of her. Perhaps the University had programmed her to enter the state after the mission, or maybe she just could not bear living with what she had done, despite the chemicals that controlled her.
Needless to say, Sean was devastated. Yet, he had hope. He would not be angry, and he would not curse God. Like Job, perhaps God would be gracious enough to bring Elizabeth out of her vegetative state. But even if He didn't, Sean would still have faith. To lose his faith now would be to let Satan win the battle.
"And now, my fellow Believers, I am officially declaring a 40 day period of fasting and praying. Put on your sackcloths, and sprinkle ash upon your heads. Cry out to the Lord in repentance for your sins, and call to Him for retribution. Ask that He may restore His favor towards us. Until then, I will briefly retire to my own quarters.
"I shall fast and pray with all of you, doing diplomatic business only in cases of major emergencies. Until then. God bless you all."
Sean looked up into the setting suns, the eyes of God watching over His people, His Believers.
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09-01-2000 02:12
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