The Eliminators

by Big Boss Pugh

They hunt, scout, capture, and eliminate. In their line of work, they are the best at what they do. The greatest challenge of their life is now to work as a team. An assassin from Russia, the American bounty hunter, a mercenary from France, and a retired hit-man from Great Britain. The money is up for grabs; power moves are in motion. The only question left: Who is the target?

1. Chapter 1

The Eliminators

"Your name will be crossed off the list once you get your bullet."

Contract Killer

"Every person has their own sense of honor that they uphold when any words go forth. For honor, it means that only the strong shall survive. Only the smartest shall thrive. Only the best will make history. Without honor, a person will live only in disgrace among humanity. The same can be said of a person when rules are taken into consideration. The rules of an individual means taking the path and seeing it through till the end. No matter how unholy or holy the journey is, once a set of rules are laid bare, the only way it will change is through one's character be it done with evil or righteous hands."

Author Shaun Denard Pugh

Day 1

Vector

I am aware of my surroundings. My walk is silent. The time is night. I am anticipating unexpected foes. I make my approach to a wall and keep out of sight. I look to my left and right before I climb up the ladder. The building is about five stories tall. It houses plenty of dangerous people. Once I get to the top, it is easy to get inside. No enemy in sight on the rooftop. The cool air rushes against my body as I check my surroundings every few moments. I look around with my assault rifle pointing in every direction I face. My footsteps echo softly with each step I take down the hall. I peek around the corners to spot for patrolling guards. My mission is simple: Search and Eliminate. Like all my other missions, I already knew what kind of trouble to expect when entering territory that has "Keep Out" signs everywhere. Even in the medieval times, it is simple for a wandering traveler to understand that message clearly. In this case, I am not the wandering traveler delivering supplies to the next village or trading weapons for coin. No, that simple life is for people who didn't dream of killing. I was trained by the best. I was made to be greater than the best. I was told to be better than everyone else in the field of modern warfare. I am the Spec Op. I was trained in the art of killing, stealth, and mortal combat. Now, I am a mercenary who is paid to kill people that do not deserve to live or who are becoming problems for various organizations. Even with all I know, it seems worthless to use in a place as nasty as this building I am in. The place has rats, bugs, and plenty of dust. The smell of the place has a rusted yet stale odor in the air. The fact I have a mission here makes me wish I had decline on the offer to do it. I wish my informer could have sent me elsewhere to eliminate my target than sending me to a shit hole like this. My last few jobs were in places that made utilizing my skills quietly or loudly worth the trip. This place is beneath me. I get sent to a place that should have been dealt with by local authorities long ago. That's the government for you. They never really handle a situation until they can't control it. I wish I had better jobs than this. Yet, I didn't have the time to think about the place. My destination is within my reach. I come to my next corner. I can hear a group of men laughing. They seem to be having a good time. I peek around the corner. They stand in front of the door I need to go through. The way these guys did their job is too pathetic. None of the men watch the hall. Did they even bother to glace down the hall for intruders? Typical stupid gunmen. Even the guns they have can be found in local gun stores. One guy has a standard pump-action shot-gun. The others at his left and right side have standard pistols. This is going to be easy. I pull a flash bang from my harness. I look around my area just to make sure no one else is in the vicinity. This is my time to get them out of my way. There is no other way available to go around them. I have to make sure none leave alive. I take a few more breaths. The bomb has a slow five second wait. I pull the pin and count the time correctly before I release it. My toss is perfectly timed. The flash bang went off right in the middle of them. I didn't waste any time making sure each bullet from my handgun found the head to go in. Good thing my silencer is on. Last thing I need is a gun patrol coming to kill me. I slide the corpses off to the side of a dark corner.

I approach the door. I open the door slowly and see what is in the next area. I just happen to be walking on a metal floor. I can hear more men talking just below me. It is a nice touch to have a door next to the catwalk of a building. It must have been luck that I came to this dark catwalk. No one else is up here. I guide my eyes over the edge of the rail. I see the den of men ready to start a small war. The guns the men have are two different styles of AK-47s. Some men have scopes or grenade launchers attach to the weapons. The room has about less than hundred men. I know getting out of here is not going to be that easy if things go bad. I am glad I came prepared for this. The four hand grenades will serve a good purpose here if I need to collapse a wall anywhere. I didn't need to kill all these men, but if they got in my way, it is their own fault. Even with five rifle clips, I am sure I will not need to use all of them. All I want is Mr. Roger dead. He is becoming a problem for certain people ever since he started advising these rebels. The rebel leader Commander Black-Knight followed every piece of advice Mr. Roger told him since day they agreed to help each other. These men took a small bunch of street thugs and made them into a highly group of radicals all because of the advice from Mr. Roger. It is almost time to get ready for my kill. I set a trip wire explosive on the door handle. I take my position in the darkest part of the catwalk. The rebels cheer for their arriving leader and his advisor, my target. As the two went on stage, I take this time to modify my assault rifle. I replace the barrel tip with a silencer head and adjust my scope. I do one more check on the door trap. Whoever opens that door will feel the full force of the explosive I set. I am ready to hear the rebel leader speak. During his chat, I close the eyes of his advisor permanently. I get into position and aim at my targets. There they are. For an advisor of this bunch, Mr. Roger dresses well. It is a shame his suit won't look so great shortly. And now he is standing in front of a pole. I can wait a little more. Commander Black-Knight won't be alive much longer either once his morale speech ends. The speakers around the building voice Commander Black-Knight as he speaks to his army.

"Due to recent events within our squads, we have brought you all here to witness a lesson in discipline. As you all know, Mr. Roger has been here with us every step of the way. Were it not for him, we would not have the power we amassed today. His plans have opened a way for us to prove to the world that we are changing it for the better. Tonight isn't about Mr. Roger though. It is about a lesson that must be reminded to all of you. One of our most important rules of discipline has been broken. Our trust has been scattered. We had dust thrown into our eyes to blind us to the evil, treacherous enemy that has been working his plan on us. The enemy coming to the stage in shackles has been a double agent working for the government. He has been collecting profit over the last few weeks as he reports our activities. This is a serious insult to all of us. So, what do we do whenever we have a double agent? We always make him the prime example of any traitor to our cause. The only thing is this double agent has crossed us more times than I and you know of. Our double agent is Sgt. Peter Martinez. He has been secretly feeding our recent activities to the government. He has put us in danger of losing our stable base. He even promised the government to personally hand myself and Mr. Roger over on a silver plate. Mr. Roger told me of his constant comings and goings to a hidden spot just under our base. It was an old radio room that Sgt. Martinez used. He has all of our activities known by the government using his very own laptop. He even told the government that tonight would be their best time to strike. It is a good thing for us that Mr. Roger advised to doubled our security. The government may come for us to be taken away, but tonight they shall witness the blood spill from their bodies and lay before our feet. Most of our faction is outside waiting and alert. They will not get the chance to see this, but you will tell them of the glory details. Before the enemy arrives, let me introduce our double agent personally. I want him to know just how we all feel about all the hard, turncoat work that he has done. Let me give the floor to our double agent former Sgt. Peter Martinez."

I look to see the blooded, bruised Sergeant stagger over in chains. They did a good number on him. He can barely open his left eye. The rebels curse and damn him for making their plans known to the government. Two guards shove him to the floor. Peter looks up to see the faces of Mr. Roger and Commander Black-Knight. I feel my hand tighten around the gun. My moment presents itself. Mr. Roger takes one of the guns from Black-Knight. He walks towards Peter and grabs him by his shirt. Damn, it just hit me at this moment. What should I do? Should I go ahead and take out Mr. Roger while I save this poor soul? Do I just let him die as he feels the iron from the gun pressing his forehead? This is why I hate this kind of elimination task. It is always some poor, stupid person in the way trying to change the world or capture the bad guys. I have to do something fast or else my choices will become obvious. I watch Mr. Roger press the gun hard to the head of Peter and give him a smack to his face. The other rebels cheer him on to pull the trigger. I slowly squeeze my trigger.

I say, "Looks like tonight is not your night Mr. Martinez."

Just when I am about to pull my trigger, an explosion goes off outside. It sounds like the government moved in quicker than ever. Before I can stay on my target, some asshole just has to come through the door where my trip wire explosive is at. The blast nearly knocks my focus off. I quickly regain my concentration. As the men at the bottom room all look up, I quickly take cover and pull away from over the edge. I can hear loud noises come from above my head. I look up to see what the noise is. A helicopter flashes its light within the building. All the men quickly take aim at the top of the building. I duck away from the view of the window. The gun fire shatters the glass and a bunch of smoke grenades fall inside the building. The smoke quickly fills the room. The men at the bottom fire at the ceiling as best as they could. I keep myself hidden in the darkness, but I already know what is coming next. Twelve men slide down their lines into the room and began to clean up. From where I am at, I would stay and enjoy the show were it not for my mission. I turn for the door that is now shattered pieces of wood. I must make sure I am in the next possible place my target would be at. I quickly make my way back out the same way I came in. Good thing I didn't encounter any resistance along the way. I hate to waste good bullets.

When I make it back to the rooftop, I look over the edges to see the courtyard. It is a war zone of federal agent teams against rebels. I look at the rebel side, but Mr. Roger is not in my sight. I quickly run to the other side of the building. I see a few cars parked side by side. It is just my luck that I now see Mr. Roger walking away with Commander Black-Knight and his bodyguards. I take my aim carefully. I slow my breathing down. I am more than ready to make this shot count. As Mr. Roger turns back around to see who else is behind him, I take my shot. The quiet sound of my gun sent the bullet right for Mr. Roger's head. Perfect shot and mission accomplished. I pull away from the edge and got ready to leave until I hear shouting and two gun shots. I look back down to see Peter on one knee with a bullet in it. The second bullet has penetrated his shoulder. Why the hell would he chase after these men? I see Commander Black-Knight come close to Peter. Black-Knight holds his gun at point blank. Luckily for Peter, he has a group of feds closing in and a guardian. Before Black-Knight pulls the trigger, I fire my gun twice. One bullet hits the shoulder. The other bullet breaks through the side. Commander Black-Knight falls. As federal agents move in to secure and gun down the remaining resistance, Peter takes his own gun and aims it at Black-Knight. I walk away from the edge knowing what the results will be. Either way, my mission is complete. I had found Mr. Roger and eliminated him. And, I completed my bonus of taking down Commander Black-Knight whether he is killed by me or arrested by the federal government. Remembering the way I came in, I quickly got out of the area. Within twenty minutes, I am away from the battle field. I open my phone and call my client.

The person says, "I take it your call is about the successful termination of Mr. Roger?"

I reply back, "Yes, Mr. Roger is nothing more than a corpse. And, I took care of Commander Black-Knight. He won't be bothering anyone no more too.

The person asks, "So, you even manage to take care of the commander too? Is he dead or arrested?"

I strongly answer, "What difference does it make? Mr. Roger is dead, and Commander Black-Knight is out of the picture. Do I get my bonus or not?"

There is a moment of silence. Then I hear, "Your bonus has been added to your account. Your next mission begins within the next few weeks. Rest up, Vector. You've earned it."

The call gets disconnected. I am happy to hear that I earned the bonus. I finish walking to my hidden transportation. Good thing I love to travel as an unknown, lost-in-the-woods traveler. I switch out of my gear and put my guns away. All my gear is thrown inside the trunk and out comes the flashy, traveler clothes. When I finish throwing on my tourist clothes, you would swear to God almighty that I am not a killer. I check all my car's compartments to make sure I have everything I need. From having all proper I.D. to travel guides, I was no longer Vector, mercenary Spec Op. I was simply Shaun. I was a lost, wandering traveler who just so happen to be near by a warzone. As I drive my car around the area of where I was at, the cops and feds direct traffic away from the carnage. I get pulled over and have my I.D. ready. They ask me a few questions on how I just happen to come across here. I innocently talk my way through it till the boss tells them to let the civilian go. All around my head, I can hear the sirens. The whole area is indeed a messy sight, but I did my best not to draw any more attention towards me. As I look pass the cops, I see that Commander Black-Knight did get shot again only in his other arm. He is placed inside an ambulance. I come to a stop as the cops allow the emergency vehicle to be escorted off with two federal cars following closely by. I look at another federal car. There he is. Sgt. Peter Martinez is alive and well. He has a smile on his face. The traffic cop clears me to drive away from the area. I smile a little knowing that I got my target and my bonus money. I am also glad that a good man makes it through his job. Shit, I wish I could have stayed and killed more of those rebels. It would have looked nice to put a few more of those clumsy fools down for fun.

Day 16

Wallace

Now this is the life! I am happy about the choice I made for myself. No more killing, no running from authorities, no bullets flying pass my head, and no more odd phone calls out of nowhere from some random person. It is just going to be me, my wife, and child. I can't stop smiling about that notion all day for the past two years. The day I told my clients that I was giving up my killing ways made me the happiest man on earth. Sure, I did it for the money but now I have a reason to stay out. It is still hard to believe that two years have come and gone. Now, all I had to do is find me a regular job. We may have gotten by with the ton of money I made from my jobs, but it will not last us forever. I am haven't worked for a whole two years. I may have been happy with my wife and child, but I need a job. The left over two-hundred thousand dollars has been saved for emergencies when we need it. We already brought a house and car with full coverage for both. The rest of the money has to last. Ugh, all this sitting here in the saloon makes me think too much. There should be a good job out there for me to work. For now, I am glad to be at the saloon tonight. There are a lot of people here on a Thursday. I was having my usual beer I always get at any bar. The chatter in this place always makes it easier to block out most of my problems, but that was when I had to kill people for a living. I can hear so many different stories and see enough good people coming here. Ah, what a good night it is going to be for me. Shame, the same thing can't be said for certain people. A lot of them either had too much to drink or was not alive to see this day thanks to me. I see that it is close to my checkout time. The only problem is the bar has some unexpected guests come in with the wrong attitude. They throw the tough guy attitude around like drunk fools. I pay for my bar fee before these harden assholes come over. Like any other day, assholes come and go. The big man tries to act like he is the toughest S.O.B. around the entire place. And he just has to come around my way and start fucking with me.

"Hey you", he says to the bartender, "Give me one of those beers. And this prick is going to pay for it along with the ones my buddies get too."

The bartender looks at me. I can hear a few others back away from us. I smile at the bartender and gladly pay for the drinks. I even add one more beer for me to take home. I got up from the bar stool, but the big man is not making it easy for me. He grabs me by the arm tightly and turns me about to face him.

He says, "And where do you think you're going, dip shit? You are not going to walk out of here unless you pay us more. Maybe, if my friend Charles puts you on the corner in a dress, you will act right."

The big man and his friends laugh loudly. Although none of us have our fists ready, I hear many people calling it a night and going out the door. I smile once more and offer the big man more than enough money. The bartender and the people watching us can't believe what I give him. The big man unrolls at least one thousand dollars in brand new bills.

I say, "I hope this is more than enough to cover the expenses of your night. I have to go home to my family."

I turn to leave again and feel a rough shove from the man. I catch my balance before I stumble any further. The rude men laugh at me and call me names. I just calmly brush them off and walk to the door. All I have on my mind is going home to my wife and kid. I could have easily turned around and took care of those guys, but I got something greater at home waiting for me than to be a street fighter. I hear a beer bottle break behind me as it smashes against the wall to my right. Now I hear those assholes laughing at me. One of the assholes blocks the door to stop me from leaving. Damn it! Will these fools know when it is time to give a man peace? I turn around and there they are. They may not have been drunk, but they are intoxicated for a fight. I sigh heavily upon seeing them.

I ask, "What do you want now? I brought you a round of beers, gave you money for a night on the town, and you still bother me. I suppose now you will want money for a car?"

The big man walks towards me saying, "How about instead I give you a fight? You look like the type who can take a beating. Oh and don't worry, I remember what you did for me and my friends. Yes, you brought us beers. Yes, you gave me money. The only thing you didn't give me is the respect the way I want it."

The man stops right in front of me. He just finishes drinking his last beer. I can't believe this is happening again. Is the world full of assholes who don't know the meaning of when a person does not want to fight? I back away from the guy and plea to him that a fight is not necessary. The big man throws his beer bottle on the ground and shoves me again. I see people gather around us waiting for a fist to be thrown. I once again plea for the third to fourth time for no fight, but this time instead of a shove, the big man collides his fist into my jaw. I stagger backwards falling hard on my back. The crowd cheers at the sight of how hard the big man hits me. As I try to collect my thoughts, I get a foot stomp hard onto my stomach. The roaring voice within the crowd brings me to focus. The constant noises around my ears put me at ease. Finally, it hits me without even thinking. I smack the back of the big man's leg causing him to stumble forward. I quickly get to my feet. The big man gets back up fast and comes charging at me. I easily evade his punches. He is so slow that even an inexperience boxer or a retired one can smack his sorry ass up. The more I evade his fists, the more I play out my plan of retaliation. As he tries to hit me with a powerful haymaker, I move in close and ram my fist right into his gut. The big man falls down hard. The other guys try to attack me, but I am ready for them jumping in at any time. I went for the first thing I can grab. It pities me that I have to grab the serving tray and throw it. It knocks one of the men down, but there are two more coming at me. They both try to grab me, but I surprise the hell out of them. They both went down fast, but it isn't over yet. I finish them both off with ease. The big man gets back up. He is madder than before. He charges at me; however, he didn't count on me falling to the ground and tripping him. After his second hard fall, I can't help myself but laugh at how he fights.

I bent over to the big man and ask, "Are you and your friends done trying to fight me? I offer you and your men so many times to walk away, but you kept on going with your insults and attacks. Now, I have fixed your problem and home is calling me. I hope this reminds you not to fuck with me anymore."

I walk to the door and leave out. Before I get away from him, he shouts, "You better hope I don't find out about your loved ones! They are good as dead as you will be too punk!"

Even though I am outside, it always gets my rage up to even hear someone say anything threatening to my loved ones or a person's family. Luckily for this punk, I am going home to my family. Good thing my wife and kid live only blocks away from the saloon. All I want to see now is my wife's lovely smile with her holding our child. As I try to enjoy my walk home, I hear some sirens coming behind my back. I turn around to see three police cars drive by. They seem to be in a rush towards… the same direction of my home? Not wasting any more time, I run so fast I thought my soul will leap out from my body and appear at home. I manage to make it to my home, but it is not in the condition I left it. The entire front of the house has bullet holes in it. I also found a grenade pin on the ground. The house is close to falling over. I push my way through the police tape only to be approached by police officers. I can only hope that the worse has not come to my wife and kid. I tell the police I live here, and they direct me to the police chief.

The chief says, "I am sorry to say, but there is no one here. Only item we found was this."

The chief hands me the picture of my wife and child. I ask the chief if there is any signs of them still around. She tells me there is no blood, no bodies, and they both have been gone from the house before it was shot up. All I could do is fall on my knees and weep. The only two important people to me are now gone. I didn't know if they are dead or not. The police chief questions me further, but I can't give her any solid answers. All I think of is my wife and child. The very thought of them dead nearly gives my heart a scare. I get escorted to a hotel until the investigation of my house is complete. The police give me a room and take care of all the financial payments. I went inside only to have mixtures of rage and sadness. I spent the next hour looking at the only picture I took of my wife and child. It has only been five years ago since we met. I will never forget how I saved her from a life of prostitution from a harden pimp. And ever since that day I saved her, and the day of our child was born, I knew that I had to keep her and our baby safe from the life I lived. I went to the shower to wash up. Usually, a cold shower would take my mind off of things. The cold feel of the water falling on me puts me more at ease than anything in the world. Of course, all of that changed the day I got married. I stayed in the shower for a good fifteen minutes. I would normally stay for ten minutes or less, but the tragic lost left me feeling colder. I try to do regular stuff any person would but my mind would not be at peace. After I come out of the bathroom, I found a cell phone on the bed. There is a note next to it. I pick up the note and it reads: "All is not lost for you, Rampage."

I turn over the card to make sure there is nothing else. The phone begins to vibrate. I pick up the phone and flip it open to take the call.

The voice says, "It has been quite a long time, Rampage. I know you have retired from the life of killing, but I believe destiny is about to change that for you."

I reply, "This is not the time to call me up for a target or person that needs to be eliminated. I just lost my wife and kid. Do you really think I want a job at a time like this?!"

I was close to cancelling the call, but the voice on the phone told me news that came as a shock.

The voice says, "I understand your loss, but your family is alive."

"What the fuck you mean 'my kid is alive?' What about my wife? What is the catch," I ask.

The voice replies, "Ever since you gave up your life of killing, I always had agents keep tabs on you during these last four days. I may have lost your service after you left, but I always had a feeling we would need your skills again. I heard of the incident that occurred at your family's home. It turns out your wife and child were recovered from the aftermath of the carnage and taken to a safe location. The 'catch' is this: You will only get this hint of your family's well-being. In order for you to know any more info about them, you must be willing to do certain things again. By completing the tasks, you will not only get more info, but you will also walk away with more in your pocket. The real question is: Are you willing to die for them? Are you willing to kill again?"

"Let me call you back in five minutes." I was still trying to think straight.

The phone went dead. I fell upon the bed angry yet feeling at peace. I look at picture of my wife and child. The pain comes back to me. All the killing I had given up on to have a better life. I had spent only two years away from it. Now I was going back into it. I look at my picture again. I had to get my wife and child back. I had to do whatever it takes to live up to the promise I made to them. I promised her that I would make her world and our child's life the safest I can make for them. I place my picture back inside my wallet. I grab my phone and redial the last call. All I remember is saying: "What is my mission? Who is the target?"

Looking back on all that now seems only like a dream. I am now staring at my destination of where I am going. I can't believe I'm going back to the very same bar I had my tussle early. I walk in focused and ready. I sit at the bar and wait patiently. Although I come here to meet with my client, I was told that I had to prove that I still got it. My opportunity to prove myself came from an old problem that was more than unhappy to see me again. The big man and his friends came back to settle the score.

One of the men shouts, "All of you get the fuck out of the bar now! Anyone left inside will get the same pain once we are done with him."

The people within the bar left as quickly as they could. The bar owner grabs what he can, but before he left, I stop him just as he runs pass me. I pay the owner more than enough money to cover any damage done to his saloon. After the place cleared, I remain seated still drinking my beer. The big man of the gang comes to me. He sits beside me ready with his own weapon of choice.

He says, "That beating from early is now going to cost you. I hope you are willing to pay for the damage that you done to us. And this time, it is more than just money. Your life will be the only way to pay off this humiliation you caused me and my associates."

I took a huge gulp of my beer and turn to the man replying, "Last time we were here, I brought you all a round of beers. I offered you money to leave your night satisfied with any beautiful woman. Matter of fact, I even tried to walk away from the fight that you and your friends threw on me. You know there is only so much more physical damage that one can stand. Are you sure you and your gang want to go through this again? Last time, I left you all in a terrible fit. How do you expect to be left this time?"

The big man smashes his bottle, but I am already well prepared for that kind of cheap ass move. Before he even got his arm above his head, I gave him a hard right hook to the jaw. Another of his friends tries to get me, but I'm ready for a surprise attack. I ram my elbow in his gut. With two of them down, I have only two more to finish. One of them pulls out a knife; the other guy reveals a baseball bat with nails. I smile at the two with open arms. Both men look at each other and smirk at me. They both try to attack me at the same time, but I surprise both of them by running at them and diving right pass them. I land on my stomach and quickly roll over to see them. They quickly turn around to strike at me, but they both went down with a bullet to the skull. Too easy! I get to my feet and clapping comes from behind my back. I whip around to see who it is with my gun pointing right in their direction. A mystery man wearing a dark business suit smiles at me greatly. He wore shades and held a brief case.

He says, "Brilliant, absolutely brilliant! I was sent by the one who called you to make sure you could do the job. I must say, I am impressed. And speaking of being impressed, you first job was much easier than I thought."

I replied, "What job? You just got here as did I. What the hell you talking about, you piss ant?"

I try to keep my cool, but my old accent is coming back out. The man just smiles at me like I was a fool. Any longer with this waiting, he would have been dead in a few seconds.

The man answers, "Well, your first job was to kill a bunch of small time punks. You not only did your task, but you messed with one small time punk who was becoming more than just a little more trouble for local police to handle. And he just happens to be the guy on the floor here."

I look back at the big man and his associate on the ground. They both now have fear swirling about their head. I aim my guns at them and squeeze the triggers. My job is complete before I begin the real challenge.

The mystery man praises my skills and replies, "Well done, Rampage. I knew you would be the perfect hit-man for the job. It is amazing that only two years have gone by and you still have it in you. I hope your next task is more of a challenge for you. Are you up for it?"

I agreed without a moment of wait and no hesitation. The closer I can get to my client, the closer I would be able to find out about my family and who took them. I can't believe I am back in this shite again. I am once again Rampage. I am the hit-man of chaos and death. Better go get my bloody knifes ready and polished. Whoever this fucking cunt is will realize that he went and fucked with the wrong man's wife and child. To piss off Rampage meant a knife session later on once his associates are laying dead. Or, I may just blow up the chump with a bomb rammed up his ass. For now, I will play along until I get my loved ones back.

Day 30

John

"Another fifty thousand has been sent to your account. I trust that the bonus we sent you is more than enough. You have done a fine job for us, Mr. John Death." The voice said.

I reply, "Yeah, this job would have been tough if his boys were smarter to catch on, but they are just as stupid as I figured. The task of catching Mr. Sosa was a lot easier than I thought. I am just surprised you guys paid me a lot to bring him in. You sure have the right guy on file?"

The man on the phone answers, "We know all about Mr. Sosa and his associates. Taking him in was worth the pay. The associates and connections Mr. Sosa has are very vital yet valuable information. He will tell us what we need to know once we get him to headquarters. Till then, Mr. John Death, have yourself a nice time. We will be in touch."

The phone goes silent. I place the phone back into my pocket and smile greatly, knowing I just walked away with more money in my account for me. Time to celebrate! I may have been at my suite cleaning up my small cuts and my gear after most jobs I do, but it is time to go out and find me some action. I take a quick shower and put on something more relaxing. Within ten minutes, I am out the door. I get in my mustang and make my way to most popular spot in downtown. Who am I? My name is John. I am known by many names. I am called Mr. Death, Mr. John Death, Mr. Grim Reaper, or even Mr. Soulless. I went by these names due to my line of work. I'm a bounty hunter. I hunt human scum for a living and bring them to certain groups that want them dead or captured for intel. After every job I did, I usually tend to my wounds and clean up. Tonight is a different story though. This time I am heading out on the city to enjoy myself. I drove my car for about an hour before I arrive at club Espinoza. It is a difficult club to get inside of. Good thing for me they allow certain people in who have the cash on them to get inside. Tonight is looking pretty busy too. The line went around the corner. It must be something special going on tonight. I manage to find a good parking spot. I get in the long line, but damn, I didn't think it is this long. The line is gonna be forever. Even standing here thinking of a better way to get out of the line is not going to get me in quick. Then, the way for me to get out of the line presents itself. There she is standing in a red dress. The lady here is looking really sexy with her lovely hair style. She looks bored for the moment. I believe it is time for me to put a few moves on her and invite her back to my place.

I walk out of the line and move towards the woman. I say, "Hello miss. You are the most beautiful woman here tonight. How are you doing tonight?"

She smiles back and says, "Well, despite your cheap pick up line, you seem nice. Thank you for giving me something to smile about."

"Who ever said I was using a 'cheap pick up' act on you? I had a long day. I got off work. I can use some good company. Right now, looking at you is the best moment going for me."

"Hmmmmm, what can you do for me on this night?" She continues, "I am not some money chasing whore you know. I am looking for the right man who can give me a good time and spare no expense."

I smile with ease. I take her by the hand and say, "Well, this night can go a lot better if you are willing to leave with me away from this club. My own place is a lot more exciting than being here all night. I am sure I can make your night more interesting. Not to mention, I would gladly take you home after our night cap is over. That is if coffee and a book interest you?"

The woman smiles once more and takes me by the arm. I already see how this is going. We step out of the line and head for my car. The walk back to the car is indeed worth taking than standing in line for a club. Within moments, I am driving down the street with a sexy woman sitting in my car. I judge her by the manner she presets. She is respectful and loves to be treated well. Although the drive is a long one since I went a different way, I made sure to keep her intrigued.

"So, tell me something," I say, "What kind of woman are you? How would you like me to treat you?"

"Well, I am mostly a woman who loves to be fair. The real catch is can you treat me well and beyond? I am not only a keeper but someone who has a lot to offer."

I scoff at her words, "I have heard a lot of other women say that many times to my friends and associates. They all end up the same way like so many others."

She stares at me fiercely as if I am calling her out by what she does for a living. Instead, she laughs and smiles. She is enjoying herself around me. I can't wait till we get back to my place. We laugh, joke, and converse about various subjects. It is the usual bullshit any man will say just to get a woman undressed quickly. After we get back, the climax of this night is really getting hot. We walk through the long hallway. I notice a group of strange men standing at the corner a few feet away from my place. I hope this is not going to be another one of those moments in my life. Now is really not the time. My last date ended with the woman running scared after I killed six men. I want this one to go great. She has everything on looks and carries a good sense of humor. My date and I make it back to my room. As soon as she enters, she eyes the room with great care. I turn on the lights to give her a better view. She is impressed by everything. Before I knew it, there she is kicking off her shoes and falling onto my couch giggling like a school girl. I am glad I'm impressive to her. I still have my doubts about what kind of woman she is, but I will make the best of it.

"I hope the couch is comfy for you. You ready for the night cap that I promised you? I hope you love what I got in store for you."

I went to the kitchen and open a fine wine I always love to drink. Hopefully, this night would go without any sex involved. I am a man of high standards. The one-night stand events are getting old. I had my fair share of women to toss through and go through. Although some women were not always fully women considering how they dressed at the time. I just need a night where it does not involve me killing the jealous side piece or her wanna-be girlfriend. I whip around to see her reading through my various magazines. She seems to like nature. I bring her the glass of wine over. She sighs and gets up, walking to the kitchen. She takes the bottle of wine in her hand. She swallows a mouth full of wine twice. She really is amazing and surprising.

I go back to my bar, "Is the glass of wine too less for your drinking pleasure?"

She looks at me with a serious look on her face yet sighs, "Mr. John Death, I was told much about you. The details of how you like your women were easy to follow, but I find this difficult. I find it hard to believe your reputation stands over so many tough bounty hunters, scum bags, criminals, and thieves. The man of death has been one of your titles some people have called you. I was so overjoyed to hear about you when I took this assignment to capture you. Now I feel I made a great mistake since your taste in a woman can easily get you killed. I guess this was a total lost. At least one of my guys can entertain me better than you."

Just as she finishes her speech, she reaches for her phone and makes a call. I can't believe this girl is serious about trying to kill me with her so called friends. Look at her! The only thing she knows how to do is bounce her apple booty around. I place the glasses of wine down on the counter. She says a few words and hangs up. Ugh, this is just like my last few dates. At least they try to kill me on their own. Great! Now my door is being kicked open. That must be her knock off boy toys or accomplices. The last kick breaks the door open and they walk in. I look up to get a look at them. I should have just went and told her to invite those same punks inside who were hanging out in the hallway. These guys look real professional. They all are wearing clean suits with matching shoes. Thank the Lord that these fools know how to dress. As the lady puts back on her high heels, I decide that I will not let my wine go to waste.

The lead hit man steps forward with his arm around the woman, "I am so glad this didn't take all night. I thought this was the same John Death. Here I thought you would make this hard for me and my men. Instead, you have given us the grand opportunity to claim the reward on your head. A lot of underworld top dogs have you as their first prize for the 'wanted dead or alive' list. I can't wait to see the look on their face when I tell them about the capture of Mr. Death. This is a huge break for me and my boys. Although a little bodily harm to you is bad, I believe it will make us better known to everyone. Once we hand your sorry ass over, the person who pays us will be begging for our service again."

I finish my wine and place my glasses in the sink. "You know you guys are not the first to try and bring me down. And you certainly won't be the last. I wish this night would not involve me getting myself in a mess again, but I can see that this is not going to be possible. None of you will be walking away from this room and as for you woman, I will deal with you just as quickly as I finish them off."

The lady laughs at me and replies, "Yeah, well this woman here put your stupid ass in a fucked up situation. So, dying is your only option if you don't wanna be taken. Take care of this fool guys. We got money to make."

The lady goes to sit back in my big chair and watch the brutal, bloody work begin. The first guy tries to stab me. I easily reverse his assault and ram the knife into his stomach. The next guy charges at me with brass knuckles coming to my head. I duck away from his punch, but he grabs a hold of my shirt. He tries to punch me again, but this time, I surprise him by using his momentum against him. He misses me by the hair of my head and falls hard to the floor. I turn around quickly and snap his neck. The next guy tackles me to the floor and manages to slam his fist into my face. Nice punch. Not all that, but he could have done better. I block his next punch and head butt him. He caresses his face. I push him off of me and finish him off by snapping his neck. The other two guys and the lady pull of handguns. I dive for the side behind my couch only to hear the bullets break through the couch. Oh shit! I just brought this damn couch last week. Now it is all shot up. They stop firing bullets. I guess they thought I am dead. Good thing I keep two guns under my couch. I go for my twin 9mms. I could hear them reloading their guns. That is their last mistakes.

I stand up from behind the couch. The woman sees me and runs to the other couch. I easily shoot up the last two guys. Shame, I should have blasted the woman first. With no one else left standing but me and her in the room, it is time to see if she is a fighter, a deserter, or a deceiver. I turn and shoot the gut stabbed assailant in the head. I walk to the couch slowly, keeping my guns ready to fire. I take two breaths and look behind the couch. She's gone. Oh shit. Before I can react, I drop the guns because of the damn clicking sound near my ear.

She smirks with her nose turned up, "Looks like you're a dead man. Thanks for killing a bunch of men for me. All I got to do is shoot you and call in the kill of the year."

With the last word coming out her mouth, I knock the gun away from my head. She pulls the trigger. The bullet went straight into the wall. I quickly disarm her of the gun. She tries to recover it, but she didn't realize I had a silencer in my inside pocket of my outfit. With one shot, I make her stop dead in her tracks before she could reach her gun. She looks back at me irritated. I smile at her with comfort.

"Not so easy, is it? I had a feeling you were not a regular woman. It is a shame your former comrades didn't stand a chance against me. So, how should we end this? I can easily kill you before you get your gun. I can let you go, or even give you a bullet to your leg. Which one should I do for you?"
She slowly shows off a smile and walks over to me with a sexy look in her eyes. I can't believe this woman is trying to seduce me into letting her live. She grabs a hold of my belt and gently strokes my ego. She is purring more and more as I let her come closer.

"Do you really wanna shoot me, Mr. John Death?" she asks seductively.

I bring her face closer to mines. I am more than ready to make her work for her freedom. The only thing that stops me is the trigger of my silencer gun being squeezed. The look of surprise in her eyes came as a shock to her. She falls on the ground, gasping for air. It is a damn shame I shot her. Oh well, easy come and easy go. Great, now the place look like a mess. Ugh, I swear I can never have a good night with any woman without there being some group of assholes trying to kill me. Not my fault I am good at what I do. Time for me to give room service a call. I went for my phone and dial up the only person I know I can trust with this kind of issue. Even, when the people are alive, Mr. Alfred Price is always willing to handle some of my issues. Every time my guests don't leave alive, he is the one to call. Within ten to fifteen minutes, Alfred comes up and nothing surprises him when he enters my place. I offer him some wine, but he declines and focuses on the amount of work to do.

He asks, "I guess you had to handle these rude people like the last group who ruined your time with Ms. Star Fire, the stripper?"

I replied, "Yeah, you know how it is. This time the woman was working with the bad guys. She was really good looking too, but a horrible manipulator. She convinced only four guys to join her pathetic cause to get me."

As Alfred made his calls for his usual staff to help him, I receive a text message from my employer. I get signed up with another job. I start going to my bedroom with Alfred following me.

He says, "Sir, my people are on their way over to pick up what is left. Is there anything we need to know so that the police won't get too suspicious about all the bullet holes in the wall? It has caused some of your neighbors to look in your direction with all the coming and going of the people who enter your place."

I change out of my clothes and answer, "Alfred, you know I trust you and your friends. If the police get nosey, just tell them usual stuff you always have. Even they get to demanding, let them know they can fuck off and walk right out the door they came in. As for the neighbors, they are not worth even getting mad over or cautious about. They stop paying attention to me long after I 'convinced' them to look the other way."

Alfred eyes the equipment I have on the bed. I say, "Yes, I got another job on the market, and now our chat has to come to an end. Here is two thousand bucks for you and one thousand for your workers. There's plenty more where that came from if you and your friends keep up the nice work."

Alfred sighs. I already know what he is going to say about my manner. He says, "Be sure you don't have any more uninvited guests over tonight, sir. The blood is never so easy to clean up when it comes to scrubbing it out."

I give him two thumbs up and assure him it won't happen again. I take my two heavy bags with me to the door. Alfred tries to stop me with more of his chit chat, but I have to go. This is a huge hit I have to do. My employer is not only throwing in a bonus but it includes sightseeing too. I rush out the door passing by Alfred's associates. I am happier than a man getting a blowjob. I zip down the stairs with no time to wait. I make it to the garage in ten minutes and spot my car. I throw both bags into the car and hop in quick. I turn and burn out of the garage quickly. I drive down the street going way above the speed limit. I get a call on my phone and good thing I brought with me my headset.

I press the talk button and say, "Mr. John Death, licensed bounty hunter and killer. Who can I capture or kill for you today?" Alfred's voice rings through my ear.

He says, "Sir, I have some news for you about your woman companion."

I stop him right there and say, "Whatever it is, I will deal with it when I come back. Until then, you deal with it. Take care of the place, Alfred!"

I hang up on him before he could even reply back. Good thing too! He would have talked me to death.

Day 42

Specter

The radio com is not working. It seems all communication went dead the moment the real fight began. All I remember was the last message broadcasting before the static: "This is not a drill. Unknown fugitives have attacked a relay outpost. They are heavily fortifying their position. Fifth platoon and second platoon move in with infantry and armored vehicles to suppress the attackers. Failure is not an option." From the roof top of where I am, I can see the area these attackers went through. They left more mess than trying to keep their activity quiet. Ugh, I always hate fighting against sloppy militia and unorganized groups of mercenaries. I had more challenges growing up when I was in guerilla wars years back. At least those battles had eye coordinating moments and clever traps for me to test. Instead, I now fight against mercenaries with an urge to be trigger happy. The way these groups did their patrolling made it horrible. I guide my eyes across the ground. I see someone is hurt and bleeding. He may have some useful intel for me. I put my binoculars away and look for an easy way down from this roof. Ah, this may be a way. I run across the roof. I get to the edge. I see a stair rail in good condition and jump to it. I tightly grip the metal to stop myself from falling. I drop down to another metal bar and grab as I keep going down a flight of stairs. I easily land on the ground and check my left and right side. So far, no patrols have come through here. I take notice of the main street and see the same man across from me. I go out into the open only to hear gun fire behind my back. Shit! Two more shots come close to my body. I hit the dirt. I look back up. Wait a minute, oh great. They shot the wounded man before I could get anything out of him. Now, they are shooting at my direction. I make a dive for a small hole in the street. They shout and curse out too much. I hear them coming closer to my area. Now is my chance.

I lay perfectly motionless in the small crater hole. They stop their small truck right in front of me just five feet away. They laugh and speak at the wonderful job they did. I have to be careful. No sudden movement or else they will have gun me down. I see two men walking over to the dead man they shot. Two more men walk ahead to look around the area. Maybe these guys are not as stupid as they seem. The last three men stand close by around me. They didn't even bother to see if I am alive or dead. They are about to have the fright of their last moments of living. I quietly grab the smoke grenades and gently pull on the pin. Two of the gunmen walk back to the truck and one joins his followers by the dead man. I take the pins out gently and throw both grenades to the sides. The noise startles the men, but they didn't know where to look. The smoke-bombs silently release the cover I need into the air. The men start pairing up, frighten by what is going on. They are so predictable. Within minutes, the whole area is foggy and impossible to see. I calmly get up and silently move around. It is a good thing I am ready for this kind of situation. I turn on my vision goggles to see pass the smoke and couldn't believe what I see. These guys are looking more forward than worrying about who is coming from behind their back. My first pair is at my right. I easily kill them both with a knife to the neck. I turn to see that the next pair advancing to the noise of their comrades falling. I take out my hand gun and easily put one down. One of the others fire his gun in my direction, but I throw the knife at his head. The fog is going away. I have to get off the streets. I quickly duck behind the jeep. I easily guess what the last guys will do next. I reach for my assault rifle. I come from behind the jeep and take them down with ease. The area is covered with more dead people, but who cares. This section of Russia is a war zone as of now. Just when I thought about moving on, a radio goes off. The signal is a little weak, but I hear it from one of the dead men. I walk over to where the dead man is. The radio he is holding keeps broadcasting some guy screaming his head off in Russian. I grab the radio and adjust the signal to a better frequency. This message is more than just some guy screaming his ass off. I know where to go now. Whoever is at the relay tower is asking for all men to come and reinforce it. The time for me to get there is critical. I jump into the truck. The keys are still in the ignition. I have a good idea about which part of the relay tower needs help. I have to get over there. After I start up the truck, I drive pass many hurt and dead civilians just trying to piece together what happen. I have seen death and destruction before to last a life time. In my home land of Russia, the recent rise of random mercenaries has become an epidemic to my country men and people. Every year around winter till summer, we have groups of armed mercenaries coming into this country. A few try to establish a foothold to declare a new order. We get plenty of gun happy maniacs, but they do not last long. For now, my home suffers from the three notorious gangs. The Red Sun mercenaries have the man power in the forest zone. All vehicle and armored car strength rest in the mountain area of the Berserker Boys. If these two should ever invade in full force, Russia will have to close it borders. Lastly, the Silent Mice operate very little; however, they have secrets that may prove crucial to any side they join. The only real trouble for all of these mercenaries is me. I am Nicolai. I am the Specter of Russia. I seek out the enemies of my home and destroy them. Most of the groups know of me; however, they never know when I will be around. Regardless of what they think, I vow to keep my homeland safe from anyone by any means.

No matter how large or small the conflict is, I am ready to face whatever stands in front of me. A few other Russian firing companies keep the scattering groups on edge. It is such a violent time to be in my country. Once I clear the city area, it is a straight drive to the relay tower. Nothing will stop me or make me change my course. If the enemy takes over the relay tower, this will hurt more than just soldier morale. Any relay lost to the enemy forces meant trouble for our country. They have taken others a few years back. If any more are lost, then it will be harder to anticipate the enemy moments. Each relay is useful when covering a large amount of miles. We had twelve. Now, with only four towers left under our control, we must not let any more fall or be destroyed. I make it to the relay tower. When I slow my truck to a stop, tt is utter chaos all around. I still hear the gun fire and explosions in the area. Right in the center of the land, the relay tower stands strong. It has suffered from explosions at the top and still has men all around it. The mercenaries are really trying to hold onto this one. In any case, I hope there is more fight at the center than what I encounter early.

I hear a loud pitch sound. Whoa! I get thrown to the ground unexpectedly by the explosive land mine. The timer must have been set to a late release time. I look back to see the truck completely obliterated and on fire. I turn back and see some mercenaries standing in front of me. They grab and escort me off to their boss. I didn't make it my task to be caught, but this will do. We all walk through the open terrain of heavy trees that have fallen over and bushes. A person comes charging out and stabs one of the mercenaries in the neck. The others gun him down. We get closer to the relay and rush to the opening doorway. A few mercenaries open fire into the opening and some more come pouring out. They brought me into the relay tower. The entrance is fortified with shacks and barbwire. I see the mercenaries ready to fire their guns the moment any Russia platoon comes strolling around their position. It is like a regular greeting for me. They have a pretty good setup here. A few shacks handmade were fortifying their area. They lay traps all over; however, they still have too much of a disadvantage against them. I am brought into the relay tower's central room. The boss is shouting his ass off. My laughter of halts the chatter. The boss of these mercenaries comes walking up to me. He starts speaking to me in Russian though I don't know why. We all use English, but I guess some want to keep to their ways.

He says, "What is so funny? You were caught by my men. Do you really think you I will let you live?"

I smile at him and reply, "The army of Russia has come for you. Your men are highly trained. The end results will be the same. You and your personal guard will die by Russian gun fire the moment the lights go off around here. You may get away, but I see the end going in favor of the Russian army. The tower will fall into the hands of your enemy."

They all laugh at me as though I lost my mind. The boss pulls his gun from his holster. He is ready to have my face no longer visible. Before he pulls the trigger, the power goes off. The lights off startle the mercenaries until one mercenary comes rushing to the boss. Whatever he whispers to him, the boss shoots him in the leg and calls for the remaining men left to fight. They all go to various positions around the area. Most of them rush towards the entrance of the relay tower. The boss orders his men to place me in the holding cell. They take my gun and knife from me along with the rest of my smoke bombs. I smirk at the idea that they will try to keep me as a hostage after their last stand is over. The guards tie up my hands with rope and throw me into the holding cell. After the guards left, I sat there waiting. Within a few minutes, gun fire is heard. I knew how this is going. I stand on my feet and struggle with my back pocket. I pull out a small knife and slowly cut away at the rope. Even though the enemy did tie me up, it would be smart if they left two guards behind to watch me. After I free myself, I move towards the cell door. I see yet another stupid mistake they made. They should know never leave any guns near prisoners, especially if the prisoner is a pro at escaping. Good thing they never check all my pockets either. I put away my small knife and take out my skull key. My skull key is the best and only object to unlock any door. After I unlock my cell door, I grab my weapons. I equip my gear back on me and slowly peek out around the corner. I see an empty hallway with no mercenaries. They must be still trying to push back the enemy. After I get ready, I move down to the next hallway. I am pretty close to the action. All I can hear is the Russia squads being pushed back by the mercenaries. They really are not trying to give up this relay tower. They have the Russia platoons under constant fire and keep them back. It is a shame they are not ready for my next trick when it happens. I move out into the opening. With no smoke bombs and hardly any light coming inside the relay tower, I have the perfect time to strike. I come to the corner of the hallway to hear the mercenaries shouting. It is a small group. I move in and open fire. They all drop easily. A handful of them come around their area and open fire down the hallway. Damn it! I should have been more carefully. I stay hidden around the corner. They stop firing and some men move in down the hallway. I am ready for the next target. After seeing the tip of the first gun, I rush into the side of the first guy. At the same time, I take out his partner and use their bodies as cover. The other men open fire again. I can't believe how tough they are making this. After the shooting stops, their leader comes out from behind the ranks.

He shouts, "How about this? You help me and my men get out of this. In return, I let you live."

I sit there under the dead body and think of the best way for me to get out of this. The man did present me with an interesting proposal. I am still stuck inside the relay tower with no back up. The rest of the entire area is crawling with mercenaries. I get up and walk over to him, extending my hand to agree to his plan. The leader has enough men to get to a safe area, but they need directions. I offer to clear the way out for him. The mercenaries gather at the hall way leading out the back of the relay tower. The leader sent me ahead. They even gave me back my smoke bombs. I go scout the outside. After a while, I let my smoke bombs go off and cover the area in fog. I call out to the mercenary leader and ask for him and his men to come out into the opening. Although he speaks hesitant, I assure him that the area is clear. I walk away from the area. I make my journey into the woods and smile at the surprises waiting for them. I radio back to the mercenary leader. The smoke from the bombs should be done by now.

"Your life may not be over for you, but your men will not live to see the next sun rise. Goodbye, mercenary scum," I said.

I switch off my radio frequency off and walk away from the area. I am long gone from the surprise, but the gun fire can still be heard from where I am. Soldiers of Mother Russia capture the most dangerous man now, but I fear I will see him again. Just before I get away from the area, I hear various clicking sounds all around me. I must use my last smoke bomb to escape, but I hear an old voice that brings me comfort.

"It is good to see you are not harmed, Nicolai," said the man with a raspy voice. He continues, "So, what brings you through here? You know you are way out of your area of work."

I answer, "It is good to see you again. I shouldn't be surprised to see you handling this kind of task. You usually handle operations that deal with more dangerous threats that come to our home. Here you are taking on a bunch of mercenaries. If it wasn't for this relay tower being under siege, I would have been talking to an unknown field op in charge of this group. Despite how everything went, it is good to see you again Rufus."

I was feeling good now that I see my old friend Rufus. It was a long time ago since we last were together for even a chat. Rufus orders his men to stand down. We give each other a warm welcome. I walk with his escort back to the relay tower. The wounded and dead of the mercenaries didn't surprise me. I hear from the chatter all around that their leader has escaped during the confusion. Oh well, one loose end usually ends up dead or lost in the world of chaos we live in. For now, I will relax in the glory we have achieved for our country.

Day 46

Unknown Assailant

The most challenging problem in this world today is growing flowers or plants. I always find them difficult to grow since every flower in the world is different. Some flowers grow fast. There are even flowers and plants that grow slow. I love watching flowers and plants grow. It is like watching a business grow and grow until the day comes for you to cash in your stock. Flowers and plants are perfect ways to test your patience, care, and devotion to how well you manage yourself in the business world. With time managed and devotion to a cause, anything can grow up to be a perfect plant. I remember spending so much time on perfecting the art of growing my first flower here in this glass house. It was easy to produce regular plants and grow them accordingly. My toughest challenge is making roses bloom greatly each time. It took me only six months to understand how to handle my first set. Although I love growing flowers and plants alone, I realize over the years that having more people to help can be greatly useful. It had been only one year after I grew my rose that help had to be brought in. The first few people I recruited brought plenty of knowledge for growing plants. They all are good at taking care of flowers and plants also. Since the beginning up till now, plants and flowers are now my specialty when I want to see them bloom. Well, everything this day is going good. That is until a certain "working" associate of mine comes walking by. He arrived not too long ago and has been waiting patiently till I am done with my plant work. I am still going to be at this longer than expected since this flower comes from a rare breed.

I explain, "You know the issue with growing flowers? They can be one of the toughest challenges if you don't know what is needed to grow them properly. Most flowers just require water, plant growth, or even sunlight. Roses need special care since they each require different amount of attention…"

Before any more words come from me, my associate wraps his hand around my neck shirt. My assistants come rushing from their duties to witness the wrath coming.

He says, "I am here to collect my cut, not hear any stories on roses."

The clicking noise from all around the area stops my associate from being hostile. We both look to see my plant assistants aiming guns at my direction. As much as these people love to grow flowers, they are handy with a gun. My top assistant comes right behind the associate with a gun at point blank range. The assistant is ready to fire, but he didn't expect this maneuver. My associate leans to the left and crushes his elbow against the face of my assistant. With quickness, he takes takes the gun from my top assistant and shoots him in the knee. I stand calm and relax only now my associate points the gun in my face. I raise my hand to remind the others to continue holding their stance. I assure them that everything is just fine.

I look back to the enraged gun man and say, "It is a shame you don't appreciate flowers or plants as much as I do. They give far lesser headaches than what a human gives when the situation involves money, power, loyalty, and honesty. Such things a plant will never give a person."

My associate slowly squeezes on the trigger and replies, "If I hear another word about flowers, rose, or plants come from you, these flowers will be all around your grave and within your coffin. Now give me my money before I decide to bury you."

I hear the other guns clicking from my assistants, but I smile and wave my hand for them to lower their weapons. Some almost didn't follow my command, but I give them my word nothing else will go wrong. I remove my flower gloves and untie my plastic, garden robe. I use some hand sanitizer and turn back to the man.

I say, "I will give you the money. Please, come with me to the main room. My assistants will take care of everything else."

He lowers the gun and hands it to me. I would have easily shot a hole in his head, but I can't stand blood on my work. With the attendants helping their wounded friend, I lead the enraged man back to the main room. We cross through the open front lawn of the plantation. Although this place was once a great estate for slave traders, I learn how to turn something ancient into a place for blooming flowers to grow. This season is at its finest once the winter went away. I can grow more than just my share of flowers. We arrive at the door of the mighty plantation. Before we step inside, I turn to my associate.

"Is there any certain way you want your money to be given to you? I would hate to see you unhappy any further if your money is not the way you want," I asked.

The tension slowly rolls off his back and he answers, "Make it all one hundred dollar bills. My cut is five hundred thousand large."

We walk inside the plantation. I remember how old, dusty, and worn out this place was. The stairs are fixed and polished. The old furniture was broken down or sold to antique dealers. It was some long, enduring months before we got this place looking young again. The irritated man moves quickly for the main room. I follow him closely even though he disrespects my place and top assistant. I come in after my associate makes himself at home by resting his feet on my hand carved table. I call in one of my other attendants. I whisper a few words and send her on the way. I rest my mind and pick up a book on managing flowers. The sight of my reading only increases the aggression of my associate. He puts his feet down off my table and leans in close to me.

He says, "It would be better for us both if the money comes sooner than later. Right now, my time is being wasted by this uselessness."
I clear my throat and eye him as a sign of notice for his want of money. He leans back away from me slowly sliding his hand near his own gun. As we wait, the soft music plays throughout the mansion. I hear the others attend to their chores and making sure everything is in order. Ah, I love how things are going. It is moments like these that make it hard to believe that this world is full of chaos. I look up to find my associate near not only a plant of mines, but one of few that I take care of greatly. I place the book down and walk over to him knowing he is about to open the damn case of the flower I love dearly. Just as he is about to turn the small handle on the flower case, I stop him with my hand on his shoulder.

I say, "That flower is very dear to me. I would prefer if you did not touch it."

He turns to me and replies, "It is just a plant. I know you fancy growing flowers and planting shit, but this little green sprout is nothing special."

I keep my cool even though he insults my rare flower. The nerve of this man to call my plant a sprout is more insulting than having more than ten billion dollars. Even now, as he walks away from my flower, he still would not silence his need for payment. A few of my servants come into the room and observe with me how rude this man is towards me and my rare flower. I sit back upon my chair tossing through my thoughts only to be annoyed again by my associate. He gets in my face. The smell of his breath reveals how foul he is.

He says angrily, "Where is the money? Is this how you treat your guests? I don't think you realize who you are fucking with. This kind of treatment usual ends up with me painting the room red and using your guts as hanging ropes for my curtains."

I get up from my chair. I say, "Your patience is too short. You should learn to be more relaxed."

Before another word comes out from my mouth, I see the barrel of a gun at my face. Too bad he will not be holding it for long since my own staff within the room pull out their weapons. My guest looks around to see that if he squeezes his trigger, he will feel his body torn and broken in half with many guns blasting bullets through him. Before he speaks another word, my attendant comes back in time to hand him the money. My associate lowers his gun and goes to the lady. He takes the money with a greedy smile on his face. As he walks for the door, I call to him. He lets out a huge frustrated groan and turns to face me.

He angrily says, "What do you want, you flower growing bitch?!"

I rest my hand to his shoulder and say, "You must try this new scent. It was made from the growth of the flowers I planted."

I hold up a bottle of red desert rose colon and spray just a small amount on his neck. Some of it also gets on his hand from the second spray, but he just scoffs at me and turns away. After he leaves, my staff comes to me to express anger, joy, and caution.

One staff member says, "That guy is nothing but a thug for money. He needs to have a bullet put in the center of his skull."

Another staff adds, "I am so happy to know you are safe. It is a good thing you know how to handle him. Any other man of a lesser attitude would have crumbled at his mere sight."

A third staff member pleads, "I knew we should have killed him sooner than later. If something like this ever happens again, who knows what he may do to you. I have some men who can handle him today if you give me the word."

Before any more words come from my staff, I guide them to the front door. I unlock the latches and open the door. The shock comes to everyone. There he is at the front door on the ground gasping for air. My associate got no further than the welcome mat. My staff can't believe how fast he is chocking. I take the bag of money away and order two of my staff attendants to carry him away. I walk back to the main room to continue reading where I left off in my book. One of my staff members approaches me with curiosity.

She says, "What do you think killed him? When he left, he was as strong as an ox."

I answer, "Sometimes, the nature of plants can be deceiving to us even in the smallest forms."

I hold up the bottle of red desert rose colon. She looks surprised yet happy at the same time. Who would have thought that a bottle of a flower's smell would paralyze a human or kill one? I send her off to make herself some tea. I go back to reading my book. It is so amazing what kind of flowers I can grow next. I wonder what will be my next lovely flower that I will grow. Flowers, roses, and plants are always an easy step once you get the knowledge on how to give the right amount attention. My phone starts ringing. I hope this is not some wild bill collector trying to get his greedy pawns into my pocket again. I pick up the phone and answer it. It is my old associate Mr. Woodhouse.

"Hello Mr. Woodhouse. It has been a while you old coat. What news have you brought me this time?" I anxiously ask.

Mr. Woodhouse says, "Sir, we found four of them. They all are unique in their own way, but they all fit the requirements that you have for them. You need to be at the factory this moment sir."

I reply back, "Give me a few moments. I must make sure my staff and flower growers have their instructions before I join you at the factory. I will contact you when I arrive on the scene."

I hang up the phone and call all my staff to the main room. I assign each of them with various tasks for keeping the plantation in proper order. I head up stairs and get dress. I finally have the news that I want. It may have taken some time, but I got who I want for the future of my business. Within ten to twenty minutes, I am fully dressed in a white suit. You would swear I am getting married. I leave the house to go see my other assistants outside and instruct my flower attendants on how to keep the flowers looking lovely. With the last of my orders given, I say my goodbyes and farewells to my home of flowers. Every assistant and attendant walks with me out front as my limo driver opens the door for me. I look back to see my close workers wave goodbye to me. I respond greatly with a farewell and get inside my limo. My driver takes us away from the plantation. It will be another long time before I can enjoy and relax from work. The shameful part is that I won't be around to see my flowers grow and attendants expand my home of roses.

My driver says, "Here is what you requested, sir. I trust that everything is in order for your viewing pleasure."

My driver hands me a folder. I open the folder up and look through the papers. The names are unique, but the name hardly means anything to me unless they are truly capable of having the name they got over the years of work. I smile with some excitement after reading the info provides.

I say to my driver, "These men are unique by name. Each one of them has five papers long of the work they became involved in. I hope they are not like the last set of men we tried to recruit."

The driver replies, "We took great care of looking only for the best. They each have a high cost for use of their skills, but we can provide them more than enough money to satisfy even a prostitute for the rest of her retirement days."

I laugh at the last remark my driver made. I say, "These four men have the best skills needed for the task ahead of us, but I hope they are willing to work like so many of our other groups are. No sense in having them together if they each show signs of hostilities to each other. I remember the first group of men to the last. The first team was still the best, and now, all that remains of them is only one. Oh, where did we go wrong with them? It is still a sad thing to know that even the best of my teams can be more vicious than a newcomer ready to receive his or her first payment."

The driver adds, "Team work is useful for many of us, but not useful to everyone. Sometimes, it takes different forms of persuasion, leverage, cash, valuable items, or amount of something to make people work with ones they do not know or never wish to work with. I am sure this group will work together. We do have our ways of dealing with people who can't trust our ways. The last few groups that tried that saw how effective my methods are. I may not always be there to help you make better use of the ones we get, but I will make certain they know the penalty for not applying your rules to their line of work."

I always did have high respect and admiration for my driver. He was a former war hero, but he never tells too many stories to anyone. The only thing he ever told me when took the job as my driver was he always will get the job done no matter the cost. After driving far enough, we stop in front of an old house. My driver gets out and comes over to my side. He opens my door and escorts me to the place. I stop him just at the entrance way of the house. He bows his head and returns back to the car. I enter the house to find nothing but old, dusty furniture. Even though the place could use a makeover, this is only the beginning. I walk to the library room of the house and in the center of the room was a pool. The water is clear as the summer skies. You would think that the money was poorly spent, but I am not about to waste money recklessly. The pool has a glass top covering it. I walk on top of it and speak the words "In the name of Poseidon, divide this water".

With the words spoken, walls of glass rise up around me and the top is sealed. I begin my descent into the water. I take this moment to admire the water surroundings that now cover the outside of my glass transportation tube. When I had this under water elevator made, I was glad it can be made underwater. I see the many fishes and sea creatures lurking around as they wander aimlessly without a purpose. My glass tube stops at a small underwater port. The latch at the top slides open. Once inside the facility, the latch above closes. As before, my glass tube stands inside the larger glass container and locks to the floor once it touches down. Then, the water is sucked out of the large container. With the water gone, I step out of my elevator dry. There he is. I exit the glass compartment and find Woodhouse waiting for me.

"Mr. Woodhouse, it is good to see you again. I take it everything is ready for me," I ask him.

Woodhouse replies, "I see you have the folder of the names we selected for you, sir. They each have a different style of combat and weapon use. There seems to have some similarity like the ones we had before, but this time, it is different. I only hope they live up to what you hope for them to be."

I smile and pat him on the shoulder, "I am certain that this will be the team we need."

With that said, I and Mr. Woodhouse proceed to our next area. The walk to the main entrance is about ten minutes, but we have plenty of time to discuss the men he has found for me. Considering my second work place is not on the radar, I am glad it is underground next to the ocean. The entire base itself is large in size and massive in miles. No one knew this place exist, not even the men who work for me at my plantation can meet me here. The whole place is my home away from the flower house. Even though I live above the water, this will always serve as not only a second home but as a fortress with enough able body people to achieve my aims. I walk pass many of my workers and allies who greet me. Ah, I love being here. As much as I love growing flowers, this place fit everything right along with my life. As we continue to make our journey to the main control center, Mr. Woodhouse goes over the profile and skill reviews with me.

I say, "Tell me about the first two men. This guy here is an American bounty hunter; this one is a supposedly retired hit-man from Ireland. Why did you pick them?"

Woodhouse answers, "The American bounty hunter is well known for his success in capturing, hunting people of particular interest, and killing. Although he is always contracted by the U.S. government, he always takes on any job so long as it pays well. He is well trained in the use of heavy weapons and has studied some fighting styles, but mostly prefers to take the hits head on. He is a bit of a brute, but the U.S. government labeled him "The Walking Force of Death". The hit-man from Ireland is famous for his use of knifes and explosive. He learned most of his skills when he went to Great Britain. Every time in a fight, he uses guns, but favors knifes for their sharp edges and handling. He is as tough as the American bounty hunter, but knows when to anticipate movement from his foes. He was retired for two years. His reason for coming out of it was due to his and I quote 'old friends'. These men could be used to make up the fire power when it comes to destroying large numbers of people. I only recommend them if our hit-man isn't as good as we think of him. One is good at laying down firepower. The other is perfect for blowing up areas."

I applaud for the insight of the men. I asks, "And what of the Assassin? He should have some usefulness. I am really surprised about the last person you picked. Why pick him and skill set?"

Woodhouse says, "The Russian assassin has been the only human in history with capable speed and high effective shooting techniques. He was rumored "Sprinting Spirit" for his unusual speed. No one to this day knows how he moves so fast, but he gained the attention of many VIPs who want to see him in action. He studied a great degree of martial arts with some grappling techniques. As for the last man I pulled, his techniques are simple yet great. He was a Spec Op until he made that damnable mistake in his mission long ago."

Before any more words come from Woodhouse, I shush his voice and only smile at him. We walk to the main control room. As always, everyone stops and waits for my command. No one even dares move an inch till orders are given. I hand Woodhouse the folder and step to the helm of the room. Everyone looks at me with calm, relaxed stances.

I say, "I see you all have been busy. You all know what we are here to do, so let us not waste time with it. In the hands of Mr. Woodhouse is the file of the four men I need to be brought together. Each one has a name, a skill, lethal in the art of modern warfare, capable of adapting to their surroundings, and a price. We know they are out there in different parts of the world. Now we must bring them to my attention. We will find them and bring them here. Let them be lured to me by phone, letter, persuasion, and money. Bring me these men."

With that said, everyone acknowledges my command and start patrolling the internet for cell phone numbers, addresses, and anything else they could find out about them. I leave the helm and join Woodhouse at his side. As we go over the plans, one of my intelligence officers comes to me with a number. That was a little too fast and easy. Usually, they make it hard to find them, but I guess this first gun man wants to be found. Woodhouse dials in his cell number and calls.

"Hello, sir," Woodhouse says calmly, "Today is your lucky day."

Day 46 to 47

Mr. Death

"You called me at a bad time whoever you are," I stutter, "You may have to call back when I am done in about two hours. The position I am in is really serious here."

This mysterious woman's riding skill is on point. She is on top reverse cowgirl style and riding my shaft with authority. If I didn't know any better, she is trying to break a hole in the condom and bring us closer together. The harder she grinds herself on me, the more I have to apply pressure to her hips. Lucky for me, I always wear 2 condoms just to be safe. She moans loudly and talks dirty. I knew she is good, but damn, this is going into overtime. The nameless person on the phone is shocked at what is being heard.

He says, "Well, it sounds like you have your hands full. I will call you back at more proper time and discuss the money offer."

The very word 'money' causes me to push the woman up off me. She holds onto the head rest of the couch. I get right behind her and give her my all. She gasps so shockingly and can't even form a single word. As I pound her doggy style, I quickly stop the nameless man from clicking his phone off.

"Wait, what money? I hope you know that money is not a problem for me so long as the cash is right."

The man chuckles on the phone and replies, "We are a secret organization like many you have worked for. We have been looking all over the word to try and find people with certain skills. Your name came up and I decide to give you a call myself. We heard about how good your skills are and know it does not come cheap, especially since you are an American. So, we have decided to do more than pay for your expenses. We would like to meet with you."

As the more I kept hearing, my rod of wonder keeps getting harder by the minute. I keep thrusting the soft, smooth body of the woman. She moans with so much delight. Her hips thrust back and forward against mine as she could feel her whole body shake with pleasure.

"So, how much are you prepared to offer me?" I ask. I desperately try to not breathe too hard.

He says, "The amount we are offering you is covering all that you would request. First, we are paying for you to fly out. Second, we are providing you with some more advanced equipment that will enhance your skills and give you a variety of ways to execute or capture your targets. And the best part of this invitation is that you will get to use your wondrous tools against people of your talents."

I pause for a moment and ask, "How much does this pay for that you are asking me to use my skills?"

The moment I hear how much the payment is my rod of wonder becomes my pole of power. I gave this woman so much to the point of climatic eruption. The shouts of my ecstasy and screams of her satisfaction fill the room. The man on the phone didn't know if he is getting my attention or hearing our orgasmic noise. The woman collapses on the couch in front of me as I slowly pull out of her wetness. She breaths heavily and didn't even move. I pick back up my phone from the floor.

"Sir, are you still there? I just got done."

He laughs lightly and replies, "Yes, I am still here. You sound like you didn't need to speak with me anymore."

"No, no. I am ok now," I said. I continue, "I just need to know when you need me to begin my travel and where the money and equipment will be at. Right now, the amount you are offering me is way more than what the government has ever given me since my last serious hunt. For you to offer this much to me, it must be more than just a simple task of hunting down someone."

"Well, since things are so much better for you after hearing the offer, please come as fast as you can to the destination. You have been given a small, private jet and will be at the location within three days plus a few hours. I shall have one of my people take you to the meeting. Talk to you soon again, Mr. John Death."

When our lines disconnect, I feel soft touches on my semi hard-on. I look down to see the woman still ready for round two. I pick her up from the ground and gaze into her eyes.

I say, "I won't be able to finish the second part with you, but you are welcome to stay here till the sun comes up in the morning on the tenth day. I have to get going for work."

She seductively asks, "You sure you don't need a quick blow before you go? I can swallow anything you give me baby."

I think about it and greatly accept. I remove the condoms from my shaft. She gently takes it in and sucks with sheer perfection. She knows what she is doing, but I did notice a few times she is off point and starts to tease. I make up an excuse to stop her and get dressed. I hope in the shower for a quick brush up and rinse off. Once I am fresh from my shower, I throw on my clothes ready to go. I pack up my usual traveling gear. I bring with me a bag containing my disassembled machine gun with two bags for check in. As always, I left my servant Alfred to handle everything to the woman's demand. I get to my car. With money on my mind and new things to look forward to, I get a call. I answer it to only hear Alfred's voice.

"Sir, your new woman companion has an unexpected surprise. She was wondering when you will return."

I sigh lightly and say, "You can tell the new woman that she can wait there with the other woman. I got a job to do and money to make. So, handle it."

Before I let another word come from him, I hang up the phone. Tonight must be my getting tail night. Oh well, I got things to do. I drive off in my sports car with no more time to think about what mess Alfred is in. I am sure though he can clean it up like he always does. I arrive at the airport parking lot for passengers. Right before I can walk any further from my car, I receive another call from Alfred. I answer the phone to remind him to handle any issue with extreme care like before, but instead I hear a somewhat familiar voice.

"Mr. Alfred is busy escorting a wounded woman out the door. So, now you have me to talk with. I am sure you didn't forget about me and what happen last time we saw each other."

I say, "You have a voice that I do recall. I like to know who this is I am talking to. And what else you have done with my home? I hope you do know that you are messing with America's number one killer in the U.S."

"Oh, I do know who I am messing with," she said seductively. She adds, "I was messing with you a few weeks back before a group of men were put to eternal rest within your home. Even now as we speak, your very servant Alfred is ever so caring of your place. It is a shame that you didn't have me here giving you more pleasure than bringing home some slut to our happy home. I love it more if you only dealt with me. Alfred informed me in on all the details of your life style. I will have to wait till you return to show you just how much I miss you."

With the phone going silent, I question who the woman is. The lady in red? Can't be her. The woman I slept with months back? No, she got back with her husband. Oh shit. I guess this is what Alfred was trying to warn me of. Fuck it. She didn't kill him so I will deal with her ass when I am done with this job. I walk from my car and head inside the airport. The airport looks so much nicer on the inside. There are many security cameras, plenty of security agents, and lots of places to hide. I check my bags in and finalize my flight. I just wish my new contact would have given me more to work with. As I get my ticket and turn, a loud voice comes from my left.

He says, "Long time old friend! What brings you hear to the airport? Off on one of your adventures again?"

I turn to see Mack Thompson in a TSA uniform. He always said he was going join them and he did. He lost weight and is no longer the fat guy everyone calls him. As I receive my boarding ticket, he and I get caught up on things.

`"How have you been, Mack? And yes, I am off on another of my missions." I tell him.

He says, "Life at TSA has been good. Despite the constant annoying passengers who complain about their flight leaving them, my life has been great. And since you are off one of your hunts, let me help you get through security."

As we walk towards the entrance of security, the economy line is long and full. Mack got me to go through the express line. Even from there, Mack's influence over his coworkers allows me to quickly get through without so much screening. I could have easily flashed my government pass at them like before but seeing Mack work his magic is too hilarious. Once through, my phone is vibrating. I open it up to see that a new phone number had sent me a picture message. I open the text up. The photo wasn't a shock since it happen before, but it is a full body shot. Mack gazes at my phone with me and starts drooling a little. We both look upon a woman who is large on cup size and really naughty with a banana if she wants to be. As I close the phone away, Mack took hold of it and begins taunting me.

He says, "Whoa, now. Hold on a minute. Who is this sexy woman you got in here? You give her the business, man? You get pictures like this in your phone, but no face. How good is she?"

I snatch my phone back, "I never had the chance yet to give her the business. She is another complicated woman. Last thing I want is some complicated, crazy bitch living with me being my wife or woman of the hour. I prefer to keep these women interested in me but never falling in love with me."

Mack laughs and coldly replies, "Yeah, like all the other women you do that to. I know you still fucking with some of those nasty chicks. Too bad one of them got married. She really was ready to settle down with you, but no, you had to be the hoe of the relationship. So, you think you can try to keep your balls and chain on lockdown if the right woman comes along?"

Mack's words caught me off guard and I say, "Look, it is not even like that. You already know how I do things when it comes to women. Besides, this woman here ain't even close to the last woman I had. The woman I had was better."

"Better than the last woman like so many other times you told me. Every time, it is the same old shit," said Mack. He continues, "That is all you ever seem to be about. Every other woman is better than the last. When is one woman gonna be your last and only?"

I smile saying, "When one woman can handle me. Right now, no luck in that department and won't be for a long time."

Mack gives me a disappointed look, "Typical John Death. He kills for the U.S. government yet can't find a woman who can take care of him let alone his needs. You may hold some secrets from me, but we both know you won't be able to hold your heart closed forever. Some woman will get in there unless you prefer a man to unlock that potential."

I give him an irritated look, but deep down, I know he is right. I already lived the single life long enough. I will be soon twenty eight. It is time to start looking for someone to be with for the long run. As we finish up saying our goodbyes, I take my leave of him only to remember his words: "We both know you won't be able to hold your heart closed forever." The more I thought about the words, the more depressed about myself I got. How much longer will I be able to keep sleeping with a different woman every night? When will one woman be enough for me? Great, now I am depressed. I wish I can just sometimes pull out my guns, shoot up the area I am in, and die a death that is filled with sorrow and rage. I board my aircraft with a sad heart. The hunting job will change my mood hopefully. I take a look at the intel they sent me by phone. It just seems too easy that this unknown organization is offering me a mission without any intel about who I will be killing. I do love seeing how much they are offering me but it is still a huge surprise. At half a billion dollars, this person they want me to kill or hunt for them better be either another government official or corrupt congressman. Another email comes through and provides additional detail on where I will be staying. So far, the mission is looking nice. The first class flight is all good, but the place they have me staying at is over the top on being spoiled. The flight is a long one. I better get some rest in before I arrive. Man, I can't believe how far I have come. It is still a surprise for me that I went from a small time gang member to a high profile contracted killer. That's the life you can have when your mom is a whore and your dad is in charge of the street gangs. My rest is long and relaxing. I wake up to the sound of the pilot landing the plane. I arrive at my new location.

After getting off the plane, I turn on my phone to see that Alfred left me a bunch of missed calls to look over. Before I dial him, his call is already coming through again for the tenth time. I am already bored from my flight. The last thing I want to hear from him after a long ass trip is how my home is fucked up. You know what? To hell with what Alfred is going through with that unknown bitch. I am on a mission. America's number one bounty hunter slash contract killer doesn't have any time for some bullshit. I turn off my phone and meet up with a man holding a sign with my name on it.

"Ah, you must be Mr. John Death. I was told to escort you to your hotel and provide you with any additional intel you require. You will begin your hunt within three days against three others like yourself..."

I had to stop him there and boast, "There are no others like me. Only John Death leaves you corpses and gets paid high dollars. And as for the 'hunt', it will begin and end as fast as I get started butler guy. So, how about you take me to where I gotta go before I get 'bored' with you and drive myself?"

The escort smiles happily which gave me the creeps, but then again, I work in a business full of creepy people. It didn't take us too long to get my luggage and be on our way soon. The butler drives a nice car. The business he is with must be taking care of me greatly too. After a thirty minute drive, we arrive at a massive hotel and the party is in full swing. I pay no mind to the party people and went straight to my room. Even going there is a little annoying. I am getting hit on my drunken women and the alcoholics laughing it up. I get inside my room ok, but there it goes again. I hope this is not Alfred calling. Surprisingly, it is a number I didn't know and or recognize. I answer it.

"I was told by your man servant that you are gone on a mission. Well, that is fine by me. He also did show me the 'hidden' stash of a few thousand you have. So, while you are gone making us more money, I will keep your place well watched over and make sure you come home to a warm place. Oh, and be sure you bring me back something nice to wear and I may just consider you worth staying with in a relationship. Talk to you soon Mr. John Death."

Before I could even reply or ask any questions, the line goes silent. I can't believe what is happening. This mysterious woman is already claiming my place and trying to move in. Yeah, this chick must be not only crazy but professional in a sense of a way. Oh well. No time like the here and now to get ready. As soon as I receive my intel, I will get to it. A knock comes at my door and it just has to be that overly happy escort.

"I know this will come as a shock to you, but due to your early arrival here, the company is paying for your room and will contact you within a week to provide you with the intel on your hunt. Until then, enjoy your stay."

I open the door and stop him from leaving, "And just what the hell am I supposed to do for an entire week before I am given my target?"

Day 51

Vector

This is bad. I understand my next assignments can be or will be shitty at times but not like this. I get sent to a drug war between the police officers, the drug cartel, and the rival gangs that are looking to control the area. Nothing but a lot of dead people, wounded victims, and more violence. In the middle of this drug war, my next three targets. One person from the gangs has earned the mark of death. The second person is already well established within the cartel and making more reputation for personal gain. The last person is surprisingly on the police pay roll. It is time to go to work. I am knee deep in the warzone. Nothing but someone either dying or getting shot at. Every corner I turn has either gang members gunning for me or police officers struggling to handle some drugged up shooter. I come from an alley and right into five gang members. I take down two before the other three rush me. I quickly pull out my side arm and knife. These fools didn't deserve anything but a quick death. With them down, I move on to the next area. I'm in open territory and nothing can conceal me. I get caught in a spot light. Police officers surround me. Before I can be arrested, gang members come at the cops. In the middle of the gun fight, I dive for the side and crawl to safety. These gang members are carrying some serious fire power. They make short work of the cops. I come barraging into the next room to find a few cops alive and hurt. One bleeds from his leg. The others are bleeding in various places or scratches. The gang members push forward and get attack by more rival gang members. These hard hitting fools are packing more than just guns. Now they are blowing up the area with grenades. I shut the door and turn back to the police officers.

"Please, you have to let us go. We got wounded and don't wanna die."

I turn my back on them and head towards the door way. Right outside, the gang members laugh and cheer. They take cover and get ready to ambush the approaching group. I listen in to one of the radios by the wounded officer. It is an armored swat team ready to relieve anyone hurt. I look on to see the gang members ready to hit them with everything they got. As much as I want to continue the mission, I have to keep some form of conflict going in order to move around freely. I turn to the frighten cops.

"Ok, which way are your reinforcements coming from? Speak quickly if you wanna get out of here alive."

One cop hold his gun nervously, "Why the fuck should we tell you? You are not even a cop. You may be on the wrong side or with the cartel..."

"The group is approaching from the east," another cop says. She continues, "Once they get here, they may not be enough to stop the gang."

I reply, "Leave the gang to me. They may seem like they are unstoppable, but they can die like anyone else. Wait here and remain calm."

I look for stairs and head up top as fast as I can. These gang members have strength in numbers. The only way I can stop them is with leverage. I can hear the fighting getting underway. The gang members make more than enough trouble for the swat teams. I get to the roof and take a look down below. The armor swat team is being held back. They even got a few hurt allies in the cross fire. I take off my silencer and start picking off the gang members causing the most damage. The gang is now slightly disorganized. The swat teams move up and gun down the remaining gang members. I head back down and stay hidden from the commotion. With the scared and wounded now safe, I head towards the back room and head out the door. It takes me some time to get to my next area. With the patrols of the gang members and cartel battling when they can, I have to remain away from the conflict. I was burning too much time by helping those weak-willed cops. At least that woman has more of a backbone. I come across a few cartels standing guard. I pass by in silence and move closer to the main strong hold of the cartel. They had tons of drugs, weapons, and ammo they try to move out. I remain hidden inside the empty building and access my intel on the target. It reads:

"Cartel Enforcer. Name: Charles Morrow. Target will be marked with a white skull on back. Target is accompanied by commanding officers with red skulls marked on shoulder pads. Eliminate target to destabilize cartel stronghold. Eliminate additional cartel officers to help maintain confusion."

I refit my gun with its silencer and take my post. I easily see three of the commanding officers giving orders. No sign of the main target. Time to create a little confusion among the cartel. My first shot is too easy. The moment she went down is when all the cartel boys scatter. A second commanding officer began shouting orders, but it didn't last for long. I put that target down and his death causes a panic reaction to the others. The last commanding officer throws off his gear. One shot to his head makes it even better. The cartel scatters and tries to see where the attacker is firing from. Too bad they didn't expect a three point attack run from the gangs. Out from the sides with trucks armed with mounted guns, the gangs blast groups of cartel men and women to pieces. They fire back and manage to keep the gunners from tearing through them but it helps very little. More gangs come rushing from the south and blast away. I had hopes that the gang leader would be among them. I look closely at the gang take up positions and force the cartel back to the strong hold. Then, my target strolls to the front. At least the gang leader shows. I take a moment to make sure my intel is solid on the gang leader. It read:

"Gang Leader. Name: Blood King Raul. Target will be marked with various tattoos."

Looking back through my scope, I see that the intel is correct again. A huge hulking man with tattoos on his body. He has one of his members carrying a flag of truce. Time to get ready to put his brains all over the landscape. Wait, what is this? The cartel boss is coming out too? And the target is marked with a white skull on the back. Today isn't even my birthday yet I get to bag two targets at once. Time to break out the big gun. I place aside my gun and start to reach for my attachments to modify my gun barrel. If these targets are going to be side by side, I will need one shot to kill them both. I grab my two armor piercing bullets clip and load it. My time would have to be just right. I look back down my scope and there they are. With my modified silencer now ready to let loose, nothing is going to stop me. I take a few breaths and hold. Right before I can kill one of them, here come the police force. They force the cartel and gang boss to move. I still see them clearly. Boom! I fire my first shot and down goes the cartel target. The entire cartel almost went crazy with their dead leader in front of them. I see the gang leader ready to leave in his car. Not today little fucker! I squeeze the trigger and this bullet breaks through my target's head. With the gang leaderless and the cartel unorganized, the police have things going their way. It is time for me to escape and move to the final location. Though the enemies are not effective, this area will still see more problems rise up before order is established.

I reload my gun with standard bullets and rush for the streets. The gangs and cartel didn't make things any easier for the police or me as various wanna-be leaders try to take control. I run pass and gun down anyone who got in my way. My last target should be nearby since the police now have the enemy on the run. I come to a near-by police check point. They seem too relaxed to pay me any mind if I got closer. I listen in on their conversation.

One cop says, "Can you believe that moron did that? Now, I am glad he is dead. That fool tries to be the hero by saving his friends and got shot."

"Yeah, I know. He could have at least tried to stay in cover," the second cop says.

These two provide no help. Time to move on. Wait, what is this? Another cop is approaching them? It is the same woman from the group earlier. She looks pissed about something. I watch her smack the shit out of her fellow comrade.

"How can you sit here cracking jokes and down talk about him? He was the same foolish cop that saved my friends life at the cost of his own."

The other two cops gang up on her. They force her into an abandon building. She must have some useful info about who is who. I wait for them to return, but something about the way the other cops did her makes me wonder. I sneak off to the side of the building they enter. I hear them giving the woman a tough beating. Ugh, looks like I gotta bail her out of the jam again. I enter through the side door quietly and can't believe my eyes. These two fuckers are trying to rape her. One guy has his pants down. His buddy held her arms. Some of her clothes are ripped from her. She has been smack up enough and was damn near ready for them to have their way. The tears running down her face forces me to not play it quiet no more. I drop my stealth mode and shout at them from behind the kitchen bar. They turn to face me. I put a few bullets to their leg and watch them fall. One of them tries to reach for his side arm. I shoot it away and hold them at gun-point.

"Who the hell are you? Do you not realize we are cops?"

I smack him with my gun, "Yeah, I know you are cops. Two crooked cops that tried to rape a female cop while not dying like others. You give good cops a bad name."

The other one nervously pleads, "Hey, come on. That wasn't even the case..."

The woman smacks his mouth by pistol whipping him. I calm her down and hold her back. She shoves me back and pulls her gun on me. The same tears on her face shows how badly she is ready to kill. I nod and back up from her. Her eyes are full of rage and sorrow. She turns her attention to her attackers.

She violently screams, "You two sick motherfuckers! I may have seen my share of bad people but fucking rapists trying to be cops! We have people dying all around us. There are drug users trying to kill us. You two sorry ass cops are worse than the criminals I put away and killed today. You both need to die just like those cartel dogs and gang addicts! How the fuck can you call yourselves police officers yet rape a woman? WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?!"

The fear comes from their weak pleads of mercy. She is ready to pull the trigger and use up her entire clip. I look around to make sure not another soul is near. We are free and clear until their radio goes off. She shot up both radios they have and puts a bullet through each of their shoulder. Now would have been a good time for me to say something, but I let her have her way. She earned it. Cop or not, a rapist deserves what is coming. I may be heartless towards who I murder, but rapists are the only ones I show no pity towards, no remorse, and damn sure no thought.

She throws off her badge to the side. Her lip is still bleeding. She rips open her uniform and is half clothed. She aims her gun at them, "So, this is what you want? You fucking dogs just looking to fuck since your wives don't want neither of you motherfuckers!?"

She pulls the trigger and kills the first cop. The other guy still has his pants down. He starts pissing himself. She shot him in the balls. The guy crawls and tries to call for help. She gives him a hard kick to his wounded pride. He groans and cries out in pain. After she unloads and reloads her gun, she empties the entire clip into the guy's head. She takes her last clip and empties it once again. She made damn sure he will not have a face to recognize any more. I look at the man. I can't believe it. His badge reads: Parker. He was my last target. I look at my intel and it read:

"Police Officer. Target: Joe Parker."

I look at the badge and still couldn't believe it. This dead man was Parker. I look at her with some annoyance. She got a little scared, but there is no point at being mad at her. She did my job for me. I may not get all my money, but I understand why this guy had to die.

"Thanks a lot. You just killed my target Joe Parker. You could have at least left his face intact."

She confusingly replies, "What are you talking about? That is not Joe Parker."

My eyes slightly widen with some shock. I question her further about the man she made faceless.

"The real Joe Parker is dead. He was with me when you helped us get some relief from the swat teams. He had bleed out before we could get him any kind of help. This prick here with no face is Tom and his friend is Bob. They had taken Joe's badge from his body and thought it would be funny to play around at a time like this. I spent the whole day trying to find it so I could tell his wife and give it to her personally when this was over. I just didn't know it was in the hands of two cop rapists."

She claims the badge for herself. I can't be mad any more. My last mark was already dead. I knew what her penalty will be if her friends found out she killed them both. I take her gun and start for the door. She calls to me and asks why.

I inform her, "I am taking your gun for a good reason. Consider this a friendly favor and farewell. You just shot up your partners despite the fact they were about to rape you. If your fellow officers found out about it, you will be a disgraced cop. Trust me; I have been in this kind of situation before. I may not see you again, but I am glad to know you are one of the many good cops out here fighting the good fight. If they ask you about these two, tell them some weird cartel member did this. The cartel guy tried to rape you and one of them died by the bad guys after he used your gun. As for the guy with his pants down, well, he was trying to take a piss at the wrong time. In any case, the rest of the story is for you to tell."

As I leave, she thanks me for saving her again. I start to make for my extraction point. Along the way, I throw her gun down a sewer hole. At least they will not know the truth. I may have helped the police stabilize the area, but they still have a war to fight. And like before, I have to gun down anyone in my way. I make it outside and away from the warzone. I only have a few more miles to go before I get the hell away from there. I try to call my informer. A mysterious caller starts calling my phone. No name is given. I answer the call and hear a voice.

"Congratulations Vector. You have done well in your assignments minus the one person you didn't kill. None the less, you have earned the right to see my contact. He right now is away. He has given me the intel you will need for your next mission. You are to report to the airport and process from there to a private flight he has prepared for you. As for your previous informer, they have been told of your new objective. They will be kept in the loop. See you in the next forty-eight hours."

The call ends. I am completely lost. My phone vibrates again and I check my account. I did receive my reward for my targets being killed, but none of this made any sense. I hurry to a good area and try to get in touch with my informer. The drive was a long trip, but I made it. I open my communicator and set up the uplink to my informer. The signal was weak.

"Vector...we have...heard of your contact. Proceed with your new tasks. Watch your back."

My instructions were clear even with the static. I have no time to rest. For now, I had to get to the airport. I didn't mind being called on another mission when I have no new targets; however, this is different. I don't know what to expect. The only good news from this last assignment was a dead gang leader, a dead cartel boss, and two cop rapists dead with a target that was not so bad.

Day 54

Rampage

These bloody knife wounds are always a bitch. This is why I was perfectly happy not being Rampage. Rampage is a pain taking hit-man who didn't mind getting cut. He also didn't mind getting shot at, fighting, or blowing up stuff to get away from bad guys. I was Wallace. The normal citizen that had a wife and child to be happy with. Now that's all gone. In order to know if my wife and child are even alive, I have to be Rampage again. That may be good for the people who want me to stay as a hostile killer, but it is no life for me. I still can't believe how fast you try to do the right thing and your old ways come back. At least the skills are handy to have. All I want is my life to go back to being ordinary. No more of this running around. No more getting shot at or a knife cutting into my shoulder. And no more of this 'next assignment' shite either. Great, now my phone is going off. Why can't these bastards wait till I get done cleaning up? I am still patching up the blood wound in my arm. I better accept the call and see who this bastard is.

"That last mission could have been better for you Rampage. You may have taken out your target, but no one likes a mess. Especially not us. We don't need you mucking up our reputation ya nit. If we didn't acquire..."

I cut him off, "But you stupid clowns do require and need my skills. You already know my methods. You already know where my wife and child are at. And you bloody damn well better tell me of my next target before I decide to just blow up your organizations around town."

"Patience, Rampage. You will get the chance to be reunited with your wife and child. And as for your next location of your target to be eliminated, we are sending you to a popular spot in this part of town. Unlike the last place, this area has been demanded by our associates to be torn down and made ready for new places. So, you can do as much damage as you can. Your associate will be waiting at the site for you."

These cunts think this is a "Do as we need" task. They just better hold up their end of the bargain on my family's safety. I slap a large bandage on my wound and grab my gear. I get to my old built up car. It looks like shite on the outside. The inside of my car houses every weapon in sight only each one has to be assembled. I drive out the garage and gun it down the street. The coordinates of this place seem familiar. I reach for my phone and pull up the map. To my surprise, the area is near an oil company that went out of business. This oil factory is far from town that the only way to see it was from the hill top. I come to a stop sign and pause for a moment. I see a man and his wife walking with their son. It is a beautiful sight to see. The child is so happy. I look at my only family photo of my wife and me with our child. I promise her that I would keep her safe. A car flashes it lights behind me. I gun it through the stop sign. Only another mile before I get to my contact and get started. I would not hold back. This is where my talent would be put to good use. I pull up to see my contact standing near his car. He must have the actual location of where I have to go. I get out and greet him like all my other associates with two questions.

"Where is the bloody location? Who the fuck will I kill?"

He says, "Your location is this hidden facility near the oil company. There are some annoying little cockroaches at this site and must be removed. They have been trying to build up a drug lab and distribution center here for their drugs. Your job is to go in, stop all drugs producing, and make sure the place is removed from the area. The second part of your job is to obtain a sample of this stuff for our own use. More importantly, leave no witnesses alive. Understood?"

I take my leave of him only to hear the words "fucking twat" come from his mouth. If it was not for the love of my life and child, he would have his teeth on the ground and his guts hanging everywhere. I get back to my car and take my pick of weapons to use. I grab a few parts and assemble together two gun. The stainless steel handguns are my pride and joy. I grab a few other devices to make sure that this place would fall under its own weight. Once I have everything, I drive to the facility. This is getting too old to keep doing. I pass up a few other cars before turning down the dirt road. The only shit part of this job is obtaining the drug. Whatever their purpose is for it doesn't concern me. Once I arrive, I have to admit how well the area was hidden. Who would dare come near a place such as this? Not to mention, the outside of the hidden drug facility looks so rotten. I park my car just around the corner of the oil company. I conceal my guns and slowly walk on over to the entrance. I see two guards armed with a shotgun and machine pistol. Those guns will be great with my collection. Now, two more guys come from out of the place. This will be a cake walk if I didn't want to be loud and nasty. Now, here come the two men ready to start asking me questions. I better give them the answers they want.

"This place is off-limits. Who are…?"

I pull out my throwing knives. With two knifes going into their head, they fall to the ground. The other two try to reach for their own gun, but they are not as fast as I am with my knives. Now that the front door is clear, it is time to get ready to go in and clean house. This is the best time to have a little classic music playing for this. I place sticky bombs on the corners of the door top and bottom. I step back and reach for the detonator. With one click, the doors blow inward. I switch to my stainless steel handguns and go running in. I turn to my eyes to the left side and spot one. Easy kill. I look to my right seeing two more coming at me. They went down. I start running and shooting at the gunmen to my left and right side. With no time to wait, I roll to the floor and start throwing sticky bombs everywhere. I jump back up and fire at the bombs. Each one erupts and cripples the podiums holding up the ceiling. I look ahead and see more coming at me. I better pick up the pace and hurry. I put down more of the men until I get tackled. This guy is a huge brute. With no guns and me getting bear hugged, I have to get away. I smack him hard on the ears. He throws me to the floor right by one of my guns. I grab it and pull the trigger. I put one in his shoulder. He still keeps coming at me. He twists my arm hard. Before I can react, he crushes his fist into my jaw. I stumble back and lose my gun again.

I scream, "Alright, ya big sod bastard! Let's see how hard you can hit me again!"

I charge at him and he comes at me full force. I fall to the floor and slide by his legs. With two kicks to his shins, he barrel rolls to the floor. I get one of my other guns and put it back into my harness. No need for my guns. I need my knife for this big pig. I get my last gun and back into my harness it goes. I pull out my custom made knife. The big guy comes at me again. I leap for the wall and press off of it. I fall to the floor and stab at his knee cap. I roll under his legs and slash at his back. He turns around quickly only to get his eye cut out. With one of his eyes gone, it is easy to pick him off. A man comes around the corner and starts blasting away his two barrel shotgun. I get behind the big man only for him to fall on me dead from the close range shot. I am quick enough to pull one gun from my holster. The gunner moves in. I squeeze my trigger finger and hit him in the leg. He tries firing his gun again, but I sent another bullet right at his head. God almighty, this big guy must have eaten someone before he died. I squirm myself free and continue down the hall. More and more, they all try to stop me. And more and more bullets have to be used for me to kill each of them. I throw out some more sticky bombs and shoot them. I cause enough damage to make another section of the ceiling collapse. I get to my next area. A double door is closed to me. I put my ear to it and hear various clicking sounds coming from the room. I step to the side and wait for a few seconds. I push open the door from the side slowly and a barrage of bullets flies into the wall. These cheeky bastards are not playing. I am not playing either. I pull one of my special bombs from my pocket. I usually never use it unless I have no choice or in tight spots. In this case, I was allowed to go all out with my talent. I make this bomb with a special time on it. I click it once and throw it into the room blindly. After three seconds, the bomb goes off. It leaves the ceiling and walls cracking slowly from the explosions. I rush inside and gun down some more foes. I can see my next door at the end of the room. I start shooting my way to the end of the large room. I didn't need to kill them all these men in here. I throw another special bomb out to the side. Three seconds went by again and kaboom. I run pass a lot of them and the ceiling is ready to crack. I toss two more bombs in different areas. Once the blast went off, I only have a few seconds to get through the door. The explosions cause the ceiling to break and fall. I gun my way to the doors and dare not look back. I hear the men screaming their last breath out before being covered in metal, stone, and wood. I fire my guns at the door handle. With a leap of faith, I hurl myself towards the door and out of the room just in time. I startle the next the next group of people, they all are chemists who made these drugs. None of them dare move an inch. I walk to one of them and look at what he keeps on the desktop.

"Is this what I think it is?" I ask.

The nervous chemist nods. I give him my flash drive and point the gun at him. He starts downloading the flies. I check back at the other chemists and fire a warning shot at one of them. This sullen whore tries to creep out. I aim my gun at her and she stops. In a matter of seconds, I get all that I need about the drugs on my flash drive. I take the data and walk to the side door with the exit sign. I open it to the outside nearby parking lot. I look to all the chemists in the room.

"Today is your lucky day mates. You can walk out of here, get into your cars, and never let me see any of you ever again."

One of the chemists replies, "If we leave, they will kill us."

I look at her annoyed, "Kill you? Motherfucker, I will kill you. I just will enjoy it more. So, once again, leave now or die."

I hold open the door and every one runs out and starts looking for the keys. With them now gone, I continue on with my final phase of taking down the building. I head up stairs and found various rooms on the second floor. I begin checking out each room to find either people who need to die or people already dead from an overdose. Be they innocent, a junkie, or nobody, everyone on this floor will not get to the first floor. I climb one last set of steps. I dive for the side wall and just in time before an armored gunman's machine gun puts me down. The hallway is a long straight shot with no doors on the side. I had to get to the last room and confront the so called King Pin. I pull my guns and get ready to run and gun down this long hallway. I take a few breaths and run down the hall shooting at the gunner's armored head. The bullets knock his focus off balance, but he still manages to graze my arm with a few bullets. Nothing but the sound of that damn gun makes the hall way ring loudly. Ouch! A bullet now struck my leg. Even though I got grazed by it, hurts enough. I get close to the gunner and see him moving forward. I fire at his legs and put him down. I put a few more bullets in his side to cripple him from moving. I pull out my knife again and drive it into the exposed part of his neck. It is time to go meet the dead king-pin man. I shoot the hinges off the door and kick it open. Looks like I am right too. The dead king-pin man makes sure he will not see me after he puts his brain all over the wall behind him. With my task over, I head back towards the exit downstairs. My phone rings and I answer it.

"I hope you are done with your little gun and run killing spree. I just sent over a few of my boys to make sure the facility is no longer on the map. They are testing out some military mortar shells. You will want to see the fireworks."

Once I hang up the phone, I start running for the exit despite the limping I have to do now. The shells from the mortars land around the roof of the building. The debris starts hitting my body as I finally come to the side exit down. I was about to make it out until a mortar shell explosion collapses the wall and seals up the exit. Fucking great! Now I got to run straight for the front door if I can get out through my own damage I did to it early. More sections of the building start coming down around me. I heard more and more shells coming down on the center structure. I see my only chance to get out. I rush and start pulling rocks away from the window. No fucking way would I be trapped and crushed in a demolished building. I threw my gear out first and pulled myself out to freedom. I look up to see six more mortars being fired. I grab my belongings and make a fast dash for the side line. I get clear of the blast zone. I look back to see that nothing is left of the drug facility. Only a pile of stone, metal, wood, and drugs now sit on fire. I get back to my car and find the same guy waiting for me. He must have followed me.

I start in on him, "You bloody damn well better explain why my informer thought bombing the place was a grand idea with me still inside. I was already going to blow this shite up my way."

The guy smiles, "You are lucky he didn't order me to kill you. My informer wants me to make sure his mortars work for the next phase later on. We do have though some fresh intel on your wife and child. Head back to your place and wait for a cell phone to arrive to you."

With no idea about what transpired, I went ahead and left. I keep at a steady driving pace so I would attract any attention. The nerve of that moron to bomb the building I was in. That was an insult, but it was more personal when that damn informer threatens me. I swear once I get my wife and child back, these men will be killed. I make it back to my place and wait for this surprise to be here. And once again, I have to clean up my bloody leg and suit. At least my new bomb types I made worked out well. Next time, I will have to go bigger than what they did. A knock comes at my door. I limp on over to it and open it. A man with a letter falls on the floor. He has been shot. What is this crazy shite going on here? He gives me the letter and breathes his last breath. I open the letter and read:

"I send you my praises Rampage, the extraordinary hit-man, on a job well done. You survive not only the mortar shell bombing, but made sure those innocent chemists were lead right into our trap. It would have been a shame if they did get away. I am sending you this letter to let you know that there is one job left for you and we will let you go; however, the plan has changed a little. Not to worry though…"

I couldn't read the rest due to the blood on it. My phone rings soon after I drop the blood covered letter. I answer the call to hear someone new.

"I am sorry but your recent informer and contact are no longer in control of the situation. We have taken the liberty to remove them from the picture and invite you to join us at our instillation within three days after this call is complete. You will arrive at the airport, use our private jet, and be invited to our exclusive club. Bring your skills and your gear with you."

The phone call ends. I am once again left in confused state. A text message goes off on the phone. It shows a picture message has been sent to me. I open it and was given hope. My wife and child were alive and well. They picture message also read:

"Your wife and child are safe and sound within a hidden location. If you complete the final task we present you, they will be returned to you unharmed. Our contact is waiting at the airport for you at the cargo loading dock with the plane. He will tell you the rest of the intel from there."

I didn't know what else to say, but this is the moment my killing ways will be over. I grab up what I have left and bring my heavy suitcase with me. Once I get to my car, I grab all my gun parts and place them inside. I can't still believe they are alive. Whoever this person or group is just made my day better. It is time to go and get my family back from this life and end this nightmare forever.

Day 60

Nicolai

Today is a good day for people to die. The sound of gun fire rings through the air. The shouting and cursing from various people is heard. A lot of explosions are occurring at every moment. Mother Russia may be getting new enemies on the soil, but she will always have many ghosts that still live on in her memory. For me though, I am the specter that haunts her enemies on the battlefield. There will be no place, no building, no corner, nor an alley that Mother Russia would not have enemies crawling out of without her specter, her phantasm of war gunning them down. For my country, I will stop all. I was already walking away from another well fought battle. Some imperialist dogs thought they will bring forth a new dawn for this land. Too bad for them though. The last thing they remember seeing was a blur moving faster than any human on the field. I get in touch with my employer about my next job.

"If there are any more battles, I need the next location of where they are."

My employer answers, "Right now, things are quiet. The western front is being carefully watched. As for the southern territory, they are being under observation by local law enforcement. Everywhere else is all quiet. For now, take some time to relax. I will let you know even if someone breaks into a store."

With nothing else to do, I drive away to my home for some good R & R. I couldn't have asked for a nicer house than a beach house. Nothing but the sand and water to keep my mind calm. After I get home, I have a package waiting for me. It is small. I open the package and found a phone next to a letter inside. The letter simply read:

"Answer the phone call in the next five minutes."

I went inside and prep myself a snack while I wait. Hopefully, this isn't a prank call or a stupid setup to get my face blown up. The phone rings after five minutes. I look to see who is calling, but it only registers an unknown number. I pick up the call.

"Specter, we finally get the chance to talk. You are a hard person to reach. I am in need of your presence and your skills for an assignment."

I reply, "And whom do I need to display my skills to and for?"

He says, "My client needs Russia's famous Specter to arrive at a place. The location and coordinates are on the back of the letter. For now, think of my client as a very wealthy man whose environmental demands are not being heard. If you can arrive here within less than a week, you shall be richly rewarded. I was last told you were in the middle of helping out your country men fight off some enemies. If it takes too long, then I will inform my client to give you an extension as much as I can."

I laugh hearty, "Do not let your client worry his head off. I have one more task to complete and will be on my way within a matter of three to four days. For now, I will talk to you within three days."

I go back to enjoying my relaxation. Usually around this time, I am getting a call from Rufus about joining him on some crazy mission. It is a good life for me at the moment. I decide to rest for a few hours before I head into town. A lot of peace and quiet makes everything clear. I awoke around evening time. I look at my phone to see that Rufus left me a text message for a meeting time. I throw on something causal and head out the door. On an evening like this, most of my nights are spent in defense of Russia or assassinating someone for intel. I head into town and meet with Rufus at the local restaurant. He starts calling my phone.

"Good evening, Rufus. I am on way to meet with you. I hope you and your friends are not having too much fun without me."

"This place could have gone worse if the captain had joined us. For now, you can expect me and my friends here. See you when you arrive."

It seems like nothing else is going on and things are going good. I arrive at the place where Rufus and his friends are. They seem relax and well dressed for this night. The restaurant always served good food. I see Rufus orders the usual. He has a plate of baked chicken, fried rice, corn on the cob, and a side of greens. I join him and hear his most trustworthy comrade, Felix. It seem like forever since we all had a moment to enjoy ourselves. We are having a good time. From catching up to retelling old war stories, the night seems to go on forever. Rufus manage to turn a few mercenaries to our cause with promises of wealth or a house. Felix continues to keep morale high with promises of more battles to come and plenty of merc blood to spill. For now though, we have Felix's story of rebel destruction making us laugh at the good old days.

Felix says, "The day you helped Rufus capture that rebel base must have been child's play for you. Who else allows the enemy to take you and bargain a deal with them? Only you Nicolai can be a two faced back stabber."

"Well, I did get the chance to walk away free; however, how could I when I knew what area to send them to? Plus, I am sure Rufus had already tapped my radio com and listen in."

Rufus adds, "I only keep an ear open for one particular radio com you use. This time I had to thank the enemy for the weak signal they kept trying to get out to their main base. With the relay tower now under our control, the enemy has been pushed back to their main camp. I hope this war between us and them ends quickly. We have lost more than enough relay towers in the past."

"For Mother Russia, we stand strong and powerful!" we all cried.

After a few more casual drinks, the door swings open and it is quite the surprise to all of us. The captain and his lieutenants are dressed in casual attire and smiling more than ever. Every quiets their chatting and looks on with pride. The curiosity of some begs for the explanation. One of the lieutenants sits beside me with a smile on her face. She even greets us with a smile.

The captain clears his throat, then claps his hands together and says, "Today is a good day for Russia. Not just for the commanding officers, but the people have reason to smile and enjoy this night and many more. I stand before you all to celebrate a victory for the troops and people of this great land. At 1900 hours, the mercenaries have decided to retreat and flee from our lands. The commanding officers were found dead and only a handful stayed behind to give him an honorable burial. Our 3rd and 4th platoons capture this handful and sent them to imprisonment for the rest of their life. With this victory, our lands are safe once more. Drinks are all on me!"

The lieutenants shout, "None can match our power! Long live Russia!"

With this news coming to us, we all enjoy our food and drink without any more worry about being deployed. I excuse myself from Rufus and the others to call back the mystery informer. It seems like they would not be in need of me to help them at all now that the war at home is over. The phone starts ringing and I answer the call.

"I see that I may have wasted my time returning your call. I just want to congratulate you for a job well done on the war in Russia. Because of you, your comrades have won a small victory now that the mercenaries have left your lands. Though these troublesome animals left Russia, they may return. My inside informer did over hear the new leaders talking about getting some better weapons from a place not too far from where I need you to meet with my contact. I am still looking forward to your reply as to whether or not you will be coming to our little gathering."

Without hesitation, I agree and add, "You can expect me in exactly five days. Leave me any intel on this phone and I will follow the instructions."

Instead of looking forward to having a quiet vacation, I look forward to a possible return of trouble. This mystery person is too well informed of Russia activity. I look for Rufus and ask for a huge favor since tonight is looking good. With a few strings he pulls from his drunken captain, he set me up with a military flight to my next destination. I stay for a little longer before I head home. I haven't seen the captain get so drunk in ages. Not to mention, the lieutenants are more than flirty tonight. Although tonight is going great for us, the caller still makes me feel uneasy. Something didn't feel right about this whole thing. If the mystery caller already has an informer inside the mercenary army, why bother to call me about it. The more I thought of it, the more it didn't add up. I get my gear ready for the trip tomorrow and pack plenty of decent clothes for some occasions. It will be nice to first enjoy the surroundings before I kill anyone. After I get done showering up, the rest of my night is sleep time. There is nothing else to think of but the smell of booze and delicious steak to relax me. My country may have been safe for now, but enemies will always be around and ready to fight. I drift off and finally dream of peaceful times.

The loud alarm clock wakes me up to see the sun coming up over the horizon. It is time to get a fresh shave and look good for the day. I always did hate using a razor since they remind me of some incidents a long time ago. Even now, I look at one and the memories of that fatal day come at me. Once I got myself ready for the day, I pack up my stuff and drive for the military airstrip to meet up with Rufus. More intel comes to my phone about how well everyone is doing. It seems that the war we had gave everyone a boost of confidence and relief. I get there to see Rufus already drinking his cup of coffee.

"So, you have a hangover from last night or just need a boost?"

Rufus weakling laughs, "Yes and no. Yes, I need coffee from the hangover. No, I don't need a boost from having a friendly brawl last night with my comrades. All I need is to relax after we get you into the air and go back to basics on informing my friends how to not get caught from a 'low blow' tactic."

I give Rufus a friendly slap, but he damn near falls over. He has one of the troops take my gear and luggage to be loaded. This soldier looks like he went three to seven rounds of hard boxing. A bruised eye with a small band-aid over the cheek will cover up any leftover marks. With my items loaded and the friendly farewells, I climb into the aircraft and hear the freedom cries of fellow soldiers ready to give their life. It always makes me proud to know that there are good troops in this world who want to be either the best or give their life to serve a greater purpose.

Day 62

Unknown Assailant

"Sir, I have taken the liberty of informing each of the specialists that you wish to enlist. It was almost too easy for some of them, but thanks to a few words and payments, they each will be on their way to meet in the known location you told them of."

I ask curiously, "Who are they and what are their special abilities? I have been so busy with the financial transactions so much that I have forgotten all about them. These groups of hired-guns and mercenaries can be so demanding for their payment. I am glad you keep track of them."

I grab the files on the special characters that Woodhouse has at his station. He always did keep information in order about any mercenary, assassin, hunter, contract killer or bounty hunter. We walk down the hall to the next room. I have to go address some others that enlisted into my company.

He recalls the information and begins, "The first one is Shaun. Code Name: Vector. He is a former Spec Ops. He is now a mercenary on loan from France. The next killer is John. Code Name: Mr. Death. He is the Bounty Hunter from America. This Wallace guy was a retired Hit-Man known as Rampage, but he is back in the game. He is from unknown parts of Ireland but moved to Great Britain. Lastly, the late recruit is Nicolai known as Specter. He assassinates various threats to his country in Russia. The skill set each of them have are various, but they do have some similarities. Vector uses camouflage technique, martial arts and carries a standard assault rifle. Specter has been rumored to be faster than most known combatants, kick-boxing master and uses a 45-calibur sniper rifle capable of being altered into an assault rifle. Mr. Death is quite a pain taking brute using only hand guns and is close quarters expect. He usually prefers machine guns but does prefer a handgun at times. Rampage is a knife and bomb fanatic and is able to bring down any organized crime. They all excel in guns, fighting, and have a special talent. Do you need to switch them out or will they be enough?"

"They will be more than enough. Granted, they all never have any history of working with a partner or unit, I believe they can be effective against what we have in store for them. See to it that their location has them all coming to the party within five days. I want them fresh and relaxed before they get to the fun."

My working associate asks for any additional tasks, but I leave him with the current instructions at hand. Once he left, I begin to think long about the four he told me of. Each of them reminds me so much about the last group. The only problem with this group of men is what they do. They have never worked with others unless they had to. I look forward to seeing them in action. They may just be the perfect team. I can only hope they do not turn out like the last ones. I make my way to the end of the hall and open the door to see a gun pointed in my face.

"Are you ready for the extreme?!" The fanatic screams.

I smile and calmly reply, "If you shoot me now, then none of you get paid. Then, the room fills up with gas and dead bodies will be everywhere. So, to those who want to be alive and get paid, let your associate know he has to calm down."

Before any word is said, one of the killers shoots the crazed man in the head. He reassures me that his team will remain loyal and never raise a gun to me again. At least some have a code of honor than to act so shameful. I make my way to the front of the room. I am surrounded by groups of men and women. All of them have killed, fought, and took the life of people. Some are good. Others are bad. A few are corrupt to the idea of power yet very little may be saints. It makes no difference to me. All I need from this room filled with killers is only a handful. I turn to face all my new and well known friends. It is time to pick.

"To my fellow new comers and familiar faces, I say unto you: Salutations. It is still surprising to me that so many of you joined. Each of you has excelled at your abilities and how well you can manage yourself as a team. I want you all to know you won't be leaving empty handed at all. Right now, only ten of you are going on a difficult task to further earn the biggest amount of money. The rest of you will have several different choices, but first, let me pick out my top ten favorites."

I go by and start picking out those who show promise and that went beyond average. The look of anticipation on each face makes it difficult to pick. Only half way through my selection and someone just has to beg. He begs so hard that I swear he will kill everyone I pick in the room to be the one of my many favorites. I let me on the group only to receive laughter from others at how badly he begged me. Once I picked my top eleven, I sent them ahead to be equipped with the best weapons, armor, and useful kits I have. The rest grumble, complain and boast how it should have been one of them. Now it is time to set their mind at ease.

"To those of you that remain, you will not be leaving empty handed as I said. Some of you can leave right now. I have rows of cars outside and each has five hundred thousand dollars in it. If you wish to leave this place, feel free to take the car and go. There will be no hard feelings. I will wish you the best after this is over. For those of you who wish to stay, you will be given one small assignment to do within a few days. All I ask is that you go to your bunker and slip into something casual and remain alert for a message to your phone. If you have any questions, ask one of my attendants. The rest is up to you."

I take my leave of the group. Along the way, I run into one of my many associates. She seemed lost for words. She informs me of the incident outside. Most of the base goes on alert and everyone is scrambling about. I arrive to the main observation deck. I ask for a situation update. Most of the various reports I hear are about an attack on the surface. Suddenly, the room goes dark before the backup generator turns on leaving only the emergency lights on flashing. I ask around for everyone to regain control of the problem, but the problem reveals itself. Never again did I think I had to see that same God damn symbol again. All of them are still willing to carry out their brand of justice against me. On every monitor, the signal of the carnage outside my base is broadcast to all channels.

The leader says, "Look at you now vermin. You try and recruit others? Such disgraceful acts will lead only to your demise. You want to build a team? Go right ahead. Just remember the ones you let go of when you showed them the door. Now that we left you a message with your cars blown up, I hope this will remind you of what we can do. Farewell for now."

The video feed goes dead. Once the system comes back online, everyone resumes their damage assessment of the facility. I knew the attacks were getting worse each time, but this is pushing it. Last time, they hit close to home. My staff looks to me and I address them.

"Our base is always in need of repairs or changes. We already know they hit us a lot, but we shall not give up so easily. All of you know what must be done. I will go ready the soldiers I picked to hunt these rogues down."

I left the room with rage and fury swirling in my mind. Nothing else can make me any more madder. Not only did our base get attacked again, but this time, the leader threatens to insult my attempts at recruiting more to my cause. With so much riding on this, I have to make sure the group going out will be properly motivated to kill. These people must die and soon. I arrive at the hanger to see the troops anxious to know what is going on. I can have sent them off in a better mood, but not this time. No time for friendly gestures or farewells. It is time to be raw.

I stand in the center of the most deadly people I recruited. I look to them and say, "I want all of you…to find these destructive, mad people. The group you are going after is highly skilled and will not pause for a second to kill any of you. Each of you must be better than before you came to me and prove why I need you for this assignment. The ones who did this to my base must be killed. So, go and bring me their head. For each one you kill separately, I will reward you with enough riches to live for the rest of your life comfortably. Your mission begins the moment you leave this base."

The joyful grins on their face made it all possible to believe that they will be successful where others were not. They grab their guns and bags before boarding the aircraft. It will hard to say if they would bring me my enemies dead, or would they return in body bags. I get a call from Woodhouse about the party tonight. I nearly forgot about it. I hurry back to the entrance to meet with him and read over the arrangements for tonight. Damn it, I hate when this kind of incidents come up. I see Woodhouse has my suit ready for tonight. Once we take the elevator up to the garage, we get inside one of my many limousines and make our way. I call my lead associate at the factory and remind him to only update on any further issues that are major. With that out of the way, I can look forward to entertaining my guests of two hundred tonight with food, drink, and pleasurable company. I review over the listings and orders for food.

I say to Woodhouse, "Do we have more than enough appetizers? Last time, we had to serve up fries and chips to cover some of the night. And what about tables and what about the liquid these two hundred will drink?"

Woodhouse laughs, "Sir, we have more than enough chips, fries, oysters, salads, and even breadsticks to feed over a two hundred people. We even order wine and some water down champagne for those who can't drink heavy. We just hope for tonight to be a good night and for there to be no mishaps on the premises."

With nothing else to read over, I take this time to enjoy the ride over to the palace. Tonight will be extraordinary. After an exhausting thirty minute drive, Woodhouse and I pull into the drive way and see the final touches being added on. I get out of the car to be greeted by the palace owner. He is eager to shake hands with me greatly considering I just gave a sizeable donation to his building for repairs and additional features.

"It is a pleasure to see you again, sir. I made sure your room is ready for you. The party will begin tonight around 8pm. We got about two hours before the guest start coming. My chefs and staff have started to cook."

I thank him for such gracious hospitality. I leave Woodhouse and him to catering to everything else while I freshen up and rest a little. All around my head, everyone is as busy as they can be. I take the elevator up to the top floor and stroll down the hall to room two nineteen. I enter and calmly ready myself for tonight. Tonight will be a great day for more financial gain, meeting new people, learning new ways to grow my flower plantation, and hearing from folks about the news. Oh yes, this will be the night of wonder. This is not some regular house party where everyone gets so intoxicated that memory will no longer help. No, this party will bring together people of refine manner, superior intelligence, wonderful craft, and even grandiose ideas. I always did love these parties. I let all my worries go away about the attack on my base. Once I got dressed and ready to go, I head back down to join the others. Everything looks great on sight. Meals are already done and each table had its owner's reservation on it. A few handfuls of people arrive early. They gladly greet me, Woodhouse, and the owner so joyfully. I see the familiar faces of my factory's contributions. Once my ordinary folk arrive, the more sinister and "business" folk arrive in groups. Some represent government. Others come to claim more additional purchases. Those uncanny types didn't take away my focus nor did I let it bother me. My mind is too secure on four particular people that I want to see so badly tonight. Even if they are not here to socialize with some of the others, they will be the fire in the dark. I look for my dear friend Woodhouse and beg him for a moment of his time.

"Do please alert me or find me among the sea of these fishes when my main predators join the fray."

Woodhouse nods and keeps his eyes on the faces or names of the people who received my invitation. With security patrols on the move, this night would be ending great. I look from the top of the stairs in the center hall to see the groups pairing off. Some went for the artwork on display to criticize it. A few of the more serious groups are already discussing in corners about the business of war and trade negotiations. And I finally come to my kind of group. The people who did their best to stand out from others and talk about flowers being grown stand at the bottom of the stairs. From growing a common house plant to nurturing a rare yet deadly flower, the endless talks of it make this party so much more worth having than inviting the boring sort to it. I head on down and listen in on the latest garden they grew, but I had to remember. Business is the first priority before pleasure could consume me.