Hellooooooooooooo my awesome readers! Couple of announcements.
1st: I want to thank you all for your amazing reviews. Your insight always motivates me to write more.
2nd: I went back and posted a thank you to my 1st story mainly because you guys deserved it. I also must stress to you guys that I did go back and see some spelling mistakes on the 1st story that I will correct, but it's going to take time because this story and my Dying Light story are taking precedence.
3rd: I have stated in the Thank you, the size of Vegas. This story will have Vegas feel like a bigger city, more casinos, more buildings, more population. D.C. was big, but Vegas didn't have that same feeling. I understand it's because of the memory restrictions the game had. Also, NO FUCKING FENCES THAT DIVIDE THE STRIP INTO THREE SECTIONS! That always irritated me.
4th: My friend and fellow author SOL1DSNAKE21 is creating a FanFiction based on Shadow Elite. It'll be a story that revolves around the Shadow Knights during the Sino-American War. He asked for my permission to create this story as well as use Shadow Knights from New Wars are Fought by Old Warriors. He has my blessing! To be honest I'm humbled. So thank you SOL1DSNAKE21! I can't wait to read it.
Finally (Whew that was more than a few announcements): This chapter will primarily focus on Eric and the Lion's Pride and it will also shed some light on questions that people had for the 1st story.
Also new OCs are introduced! Courtesy of coastierks and Paladin Bailey. I've got a few more OCs for this story, but I still need one more. Like I said I always welcome ideas and characters, but I also have a limit. Gotta keep the OCs to a minimum, because I maaaaay have overadded in my first story.
Reviews!
Paladin Bailey: Glad to see you back bud. I don't foresee Jason and Ulysses being part of Eric's squad, more along the lines of them contributing to something better for the Mojave.
LanzCorporalAssWipe: Thank you, thank you! There will be, but in building a nation, many obstacles must be overcome.
DarkRank550: YOU WOUND ME! I AM NO HIGH SPEED XD! Haha welcome back brother. I have no intentions of messing this up!
Gamerbox: I've still got one OC slot available left. I never got your character though :( So do me a favor my friend, just message me on here through Private Message and I'll see what character you have.
TMDF_Artyom: You'll be even more hyped as the story progresses.
FakeDaVinci: You, inflatedChimp, and GuestDB always leave the best reviews. So insightful! Yes, Ulysses would gladly plant his flag in the name of the EAGLE! Right now, the US, Midwest and Texas Brotherhood don't have an actual government, just a military alliance, the United Alliance. You got to start slow if you want to succeed in creating a nation. As for territories, all of the Midwestern states, minus parts of Ohio. Then they have Texas, obviously, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, parts of Pennsylvania and New York. Can't wait to read more of your story brother.
WOLFMASTERBELLA: Here's your update!
coastierks: Glad you liked it!
Chapter 2: The Shadows Lie in Wait
The Lucky 38: December 5, 2281. 5:18 P.M.
In the penthouse, Jason sat back and took a deep breath as he finished recounting everything that happened to him at the Divide. From his encrypted message, to the marked men, to Ulysses and his plans to destroy the NCR. Jason told them about how he and Ulysses fought against the marked men under the Old-World flag. His companions all listened closely as he explained that Ulysses launched the final operational ICBM against the Legion as retribution for the destruction they had caused to his tribe, the Twisted Hairs. The last bit of information he told them was how he was saved by a group of unknown people before he blacked out.
Once Jason was finished, Boone was the first to speak. "These people you saw… you have any idea who they were? What they looked like?"
Jason shook his head. "I have no idea. The best I could tell was they were wearing black fatigues and looked to be military. I couldn't see their faces though. Next thing I know, I'm waking up outside of the canyon wreckage." He looked to Boone. "Does the NCR have some special forces group I've never heard of?"
Boone thought long and hard for a few seconds before shaking his head. "No. Not that I know of at least. We've got 1st Recon and the Rangers, but that's it. Plus, from what you've told us, the only NCR presence in the Divide were either dead or turned into marked men. I don't think the NCR would be willing to send more troops to die out there."
Jason scoffed in revulsion. "That hasn't stopped them before."
"What do you mean?" Cass asked with a small frown.
"The NCR has been sending soldiers here to die for almost six years. Over what? That fucking dam and this fucking city. So much blood spilt over little to no progress." Jason said with venom in his voice. He looked back and forth between Cass and Boone. "Have you guys thought about what I said?"
The two companions knew what Jason was referring to. The conversation he had with him and his plans to make Vegas and the Mojave an independent nation. Independent from the Legion and the NCR. Boone couldn't believe that Jason, after all the time he had spent in the NCR Army, was willing to force them out of the Mojave. At first, he was angry, disgusted, but as Jason explained the reasons… he had to admit that it would be for the better. Not just for the Mojave, but the NCR as well. It would benefit the NCR so they could focus primarily on fixing themselves, fixing their economy, and strengthening their borders. The rapid expansion of the New California Republic has taken its toll on them and if they didn't stop now, it would only be a matter of time before their government imploded.
The former 1st Recon sniper scratched the back of his head and let out a long, exhausted sigh. "You realize the NCR won't take this lying down."
Jason nodded in affirmation. "I'm aware, but Boone we have to do this, or else the NCR will not survive another twenty years."
Boone slowly nodded. "Alright… I'm with you Jason."
Jason looked to his next companion. "Cass?"
Cass had her arms folded and looked to be mulling the whole thing over. Finally, she came to a decision. "Ah fuck it. Yeah. I'm in. Besides, I would love to see the look on Oliver's face when he sees everything come tumbling down around him."
The Courier let out a breath he didn't even know he was holding. "Alright." He looked to Yes Man. "How much damage did the ICBM cause the Legion, Yes Man?"
"According to my calculations, the Legion had over three thousand soldiers at Dry Wells at the time of detonation. This is good news for us." Yes Man said happily.
Jason scowled at the AI. "How is setting off a nuke good news?"
"Because, I've been intercepting NCR Ranger radio traffic and according to a nearby patrol, the Legion forces at Dry Wells were supposed to move in to reoccupy Fortification Hill with a main force from Flagstaff. The army from Flagstaff arrived earlier this morning with almost 4,000 soldiers. The combined Legion forces would've been large enough to launch their attack and overwhelm NCR positions all the way to the Mojave Outpost." Yes Man informed the Courier. "If the missile hadn't gone off, the probability of suffering total defeat at the hands of the Legion would've been 98.95%."
Jason sighed and buried his face in his hands. He wanted to beat back the Legion, but not at the cost of having to use nuclear methods. However, this new bit of information helped to ease the Courier's mind. The NCR only had around 2,500 troopers in the region along with 300 maybe 400 Rangers. If Dry Wells hadn't been destroyed, the Legion would've marched across the Mojave.
"Alright." Jason said as he dropped his hands to his sides and looked to his companions. "The destruction at Dry Wells delayed the inevitable. It bought us some time to help fortify the NCR lines along the Colorado and prepare for the battle. I need to speak to Elder McNamara to see how the Brotherhood's preparations for the upcoming battle are going."
Veronica looked down at the mention of her former chapter. Then she looked to Jason. "You still haven't told Colonel Moore that the Brotherhood would be there to help them at Hoover Dam."
Jason shook his head. "No, because she already found out. I don't plan on going back there, because knowing the bitch she'll probably cuss me out and then shoot me… well, probably not shoot me. She'll do something, and I don't have time to put up with her brusque "listen to me or face my wrath" attitude."
The others, minus Boone, chuckled at Jason's description of the war-hardened Colonel. Arcade stood from his seat. "I'm going to head back to Freeside to help Julie and the Followers prepare for the influx of injured when the Legion attack."
"I'm going to Westside to see if there's anything they need." Raul said as he left with Arcade.
Veronica rocked back and forth on her feet with her usual peppy attitude. "I… I don't know what I'm going to do, but I'll find something. (Gasp) I know! I'm going to go try out my new dress and see how many heads I can turn at the Luxor!"
Jason raised his hand up to gain her attention. "Uh, I wouldn't do it at the Luxor, since the White Gloves own that one, it's way too…" Jason snapped his fingers as he thought about it. "what's the words I'm trying to find? Prim and proper. Last I checked, classy women don't ogle pretty girls."
Veronica slightly pouted at Jason's input. "Any suggestions then? I refuse to go to Gomorrah."
Scratching the back of his neck, Jason started naming each of the casinos inside his head. 'Gomorrah, Ultra-Lux, Tops, Luxor, The Paris, Bellagio, The New York-New York, the Venetian, Bally's ah bingo!'
"Bally's Casino. The Chairmen own that one and I'm sure you might be able to catch an honest girl's attention or two." Veronica squealed in excitement before running off to the elevator to go change and have fun on the Strip. "MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR POWERFIST BEHIND! I DON'T THINK THE LADIES WOU- ahh and she's gone." Jason said as he heard the elevator door close. He wanted to make sure she didn't take her pneumatic gauntlet that would scare others. "Wait a minute… oh yeah security would take it from her."
Cass snorted in amusement and shook her head. "She's a like a kid sometimes. You know that right?"
Jason smiled and nodded in agreement. "Yeah, but she's like a child that can punch a hole in a deathclaw's face. I've always seen Veronica as a little sister. So cheery… and sometimes annoying to the point I want drag my face across broken glass." Boone chuckled at Jason's remark. The latter looked to the former with wide eyes and put a hand to his chest. "Oh my God. Are you laughing? Who are you and what have you done with the always apathetic and slightly grumpy sniper?"
Boone snorted and shook his head. "Kiss my ass." He stood up from his seat and grabbed his rifle. "I'm going to see if I can pick off any Legionaries that may have strayed across the Colorado."
After Boone left. Jason pursed his lips and looked to Cass. "Wanna come with me to Hidden Valley?" He asked while petting Rex.
Cass shrugged her shoulders. "Eh, why not? Beats sitting here and doing nothing."
Compound Alpha. One Mile from Area 51: December 5, 2281. 10:04 P.M.
"FUCK!" One of the Rangers shouted as he tossed his helmet across the room.
Staff Sergeant Butch DeLoria was just as upset as his Rangers. It had been a really shitty week for them since their arrival at Area 51 wasn't a very welcome one. Because no one had been around to keep the base squared away for over 200 years, the desert had slowly retaken it. Sand had buried the tarmac, which caused everyone on board the C-130 to prep for crash landing. The resulting crash had claimed the lives of both pilots and two Rangers. On top of that, the desert sands had most of the hangers and garages covered halfway. Butch and his squad had finally made it through to the underground cryo chambers, where they had a new problem.
Butch held a hand against his mouth as he stared at the terminal screen in anguish. The Rangers finally made it to the cryo chambers to start releasing the people from their pods when they came across some grim news. Butch grabbed his radio. "Captain, I need you down here at cryo level one ASAP."
A few minutes later, Captain Jason Thompson entered the room and immediately took heed of his men's dismay. "What happened?"
"We've got multiple life-support system failures throughout the chambers sir." Butch informed.
Captain Thompson felt his heart drop. "How bad?"
Butch looked back at the terminal. "Out of the 400 troops that were assigned here, 73 of them died of cardiac arrest."
"What about our families?" Thompson asked, feeling sick to his stomach.
Butch typed away on the keyboard until he got the results he was looking for. The former Tunnel-snake ran a hand through his hair. "Fuck."
"Sergeant!" Thompson said to snap his soldier out of his funk. He needed to know how many people they lost and if his wife and daughter were amongst them.
"Out of the 3,000 civilians assigned to the facility, only 2,981 entered cryo stasis. Out of all of those that made it here, 346 also died of cardiac arrest."
Thompson blinked back the tears, refusing to let them fall. "Can you find my family? Look for Rebecca and Leah Thompson."
As Butch typed at the keys, Thompson closed his eyes and silently prayed. "I found them sir. They're alive." The Ranger Captain let out a breath of relief. "Cryo level two, pods 315 and 316 Alpha."
Captain Thompson took off to find his family with Butch tailing after him. When they reached the designated location, Jason started moving down the aisles, trying to find his wife and daughter's pods. "311, 312, 313, 314… Oh my God." He stopped in front of the cryo pod where his wife was. She still looked the same since he last saw her. Her blonde hair, her tan skin. It really was her. Next to his wife's pod was the one that contained his five-year-old daughter. He quickly activated the release on his wife's cryo pod, stepping back as the doors opened. Thompson moved to catch his wife before she collapsed to the floor.
"Rebecca. Come on honey wake up. Please wake up." Jason said as he tapped his hand against her cheek, ignoring her cold body as he held her in his arms.
Slowly, his wife started to stir before her eyes finally opened. When she saw her husband, a small smile played across her face. She reached out and put a hand against his cheek. "Hey love."
Thompson choked back a sob as he pulled his wife closer and cried into her shoulder. At first his wife was confused, but when she heard him repeatedly saying "I thought I lost you," she gently rubbed the back of his neck, assuring him that she wasn't going anywhere.
When he finally pulled away, he gave her a long and loving kiss on the lips and helped her to her feet. "How long was I out for?"
"Too long. Let's get Leah." Jason said as they both looked to Butch who was examining other pods. Rebecca looked at the soldier then back at her husband. "He's one of my soldiers." He told her as he activated the release on their daughter's pod.
Both parents caught their daughter and she was quick to awaken. She looked at her mother, who had tears in her eyes, but a smile on her face. She quickly turned and saw her dad, whom she hadn't seen in almost a year. (Well 204 years, but you get the point!)
"Daddy!" She said excitedly as she embraced her father.
Jason shed fresh tears as he held his daughter in his arms, pulling his wife to join them in the embrace.
Butch looked at the scene with a sad smile on his face. He was happy that his Captain was reunited with his family, but for him it was a bittersweet moment. He looked at the pod he was standing in front of. Inside the pod was a young woman who wouldn't be seeing her loved one again. She was one of the many that had died from cardiac arrest. Many of the Pre-War soldiers would be receiving their families soon, but many others would be receiving broken hearts. The former Tunnel-snake left to go inform command as well as Eric.
Freeside: December 15, 2281. 5:31 A.M. (10 Days Later)
Inside an abandoned three-story building… or so it looked. Eric and his squad were waking up and getting ready for today's activities which primarily consisted of gathering intel on the NCR and Vegas itself. The group of soldiers had moved into Freeside after Eric's recon scout Williams got sick with pneumonia. The mold particles from the water in the main assembly room of the H&H Tool Factory had been a contributing factor and Eric didn't want to jeopardize his squad's health any further.
The Shadow Knights all took up different rooms while Carter was downstairs with his radio at the main desk. Melissa and Eric rummaged through their bags and began changing. As Eric pulled a tan t-shirt out of his bag, he turned and saw Melissa in her underwear. Just like him, there were scars that littered across her body. The Lone Wanderer couldn't help, but admire the lovely woman's physique, her smooth tan skin, the tribal art tattoo that covered her entire left arm, and her choice of underclothing. She was sporting a black bra and black panties that really… defined her assets.
Eric walked over and wrapped his arms around his love from behind. "You're so damn perfect." He whispered before planting a kiss against her neck.
Melissa smiled and turned her head to look at Eric. "Down boy!" She ordered as she broke the embrace. "We've got more important things to deal with." Being that she was only two inches shorter than Eric, she didn't need to stand on her tiptoes when she planted a quick kiss on his lips. "Later though." She promised.
Eric groaned in mock frustration, but quickly relented and went back to getting dressed. "I'll show you later." Melissa raised a challenging eyebrow at Eric's remark. She grabbed her riggers belt and whipped it at the man, smacking him in the arm. "Hey now! You be nice!"
Melissa chuckled and was about to reply when AJ's voice could be heard throughout the entire second floor in the room next to them. "HEY! NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR YOU GUYS FUCKING!"
The laughs and hearty chuckles of the rest of Lion's Pride could be heard from the other rooms. The two officers couldn't help but laugh themselves. "Shut up AJ!" Eric shouted through the wall that separated their rooms.
Once everyone got changed into different outfits, they grabbed their weapons and headed back downstairs. Most of them had changed from their uniforms into much more appropriate/civilian attire. They were wearing beige cargo pants; some were wearing coyote brown t-shirts while others wore black. They had desert shemaghs around their necks, brown all-terrain boots, sand tan dragon skin vests, and finally a tan or black baseball cap.
The only two Shadow Knights that weren't present were Spreng and Toshi. Eric had sent Spreng to keep an eye on all Legion activity along the Colorado. Toshi, after making a long trek and bitching about it the whole way, was at Big Mountain gathering intel on prototype weapons and anything that could prove to be beneficial to the UA.
Since their return from the Divide, Lion's Pride had spent a good deal of time sneaking across the Legion's side of the Colorado to see what they were up to.
The Shadow Knight Lieutenant gathered everyone around a map of the Mojave, courtesy of Reynolds. Thanks to the former NCR Ranger, Eric had studied all locations of importance, and the factions that roamed the region. "Today we're going to gather anything we can on the NCR. Blend in with the shadows. Here's what I want you all to do. AJ," Eric tossed the SAW gunner a bag with 2,000 caps. "you're my eyes and ears on the Strip. Any and all intel you can gather, I want it. So, ditch your gear here and try to keep your pistol hidden, just in case." He looked to Reynolds and Marin. "You two, head to South Vegas to put some pressure on the Fiends."
The former NCR Ranger turned to glare daggers at the former Legion doctor. Marin quickly returned the look he was receiving and it became apparent to everyone else in the room that the two former enemies still had much hate for each other. Myers and AJ took a step forward, preparing for a possible confrontation.
Eric snapped his fingers in front of them to gain their attention. "Knock that shit off. Both of you. Look I can't imagine what you two have been through when you were enemies fighting under different flags, but that's in the past. You'll both cooperate and act like teammates or I'll fuck you both up and have you transferred out of the Pride! Do I make myself clear?" The Lone Wanderer asked in an ice-cold tone that brokered no room for an argument.
"Yes sir!" Both Shadow Knights said, finally looking away from each other.
"Good." Eric looked back at the map. "Myers, you'll gather intel here in Freeside. Melissa, I need you at Camp Golf to gather every last report or file that has gone in and out of there."
"Before she goes." Reynolds reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys. He tossed them to the Captain, who deftly caught them with one hand. "There's a Ranger safehouse to the south of Vegas. Very rarely does anyone ever go there." He pointed to the location on the map, which Melissa marked on her own. "It's always stockpiled with fresh Ranger uniforms. Camp Golf always has mercs that wander through, but they're always under scrutiny from troops stationed there. Go with a uniform and you'll draw less attention."
Williams sat up, but was still very sick. "Where do you want me LT?" He asked with a slight wheeze before coughing uncontrollably. Judging by how raspy and wet the coughs sounded, Williams was in no condition to travel.
"You're staying here to hold down the fort with Carter. You're still in no condition to be moving and I'm not risking your health even further." Eric told the recon scout.
"But LT." Williams tried to protest, but Eric shut him down.
"End of discussion Williams. Rest up til Marin says you're good to go." The Lone Wanderer looked to his radio officer. "You've got things covered here?"
"Don't worry brother, I got your six." Carter assured. "Spreng just checked in. Legion is still fortifying their positions, but they aren't moving to attack yet.
Eric nodded. "Alright… I'm heading to McCarren to gather intel. You guys know what to do. Move with Pride."
"Lion's Pride!"
Big Mountain, The Sink: December 17, 2281. 5:31 P.M. (2 Days Later)
"WHO ARE YOU CALLING DIM YOU BITCH?!" Light Switch 01 shouted at the other.
"Oh, I'm sorry, did the bulb finally switch on for you? It's about time." Light Switch 02 insulted.
"Ladies please. There's no need for this. Let's all just embrace in the love." Blind Diode Jefferson said, the jukebox trying to intervene in the catfight between the light switches.
"SCREW YOUR LOVE! I'LL MAKE SURE IT ALL BURNS TO THE GROUND IN A HEAP OF NUCLEAR FIRE! FEAR MY WRATH!" The Toaster proclaimed.
Specialist Toshi Sonda was at his wits end. The automated personalities wouldn't stop arguing and it was becoming increasingly hard to concentrate on reviewing all of the files he had downloaded from the central computer systems in the Think Tank. Ever since he arrived at Big Mountain, he had been facing constant threats. Robotic scorpions, lobotomized people, cazadors, the freakiest thing he came across was the skeletons in the trauma harnesses. Getting shot at by the walking dead was not on his list of things he'd planned on doing. Those floating robot brains were even more annoying. Them screaming at him for walking around with his "penis-tipped appendages."
Now he was sitting next to the Sink Central Intelligence Unit, going through everything gathered on the Pre-War military. Prototype weapons, top secret projects, and a few other interesting things.
"Anyone seen my mugs?" Muggy asked.
"SHUT UP YOU MUG HOARDING FREAK!"
Toshi had enough. He rocketed out of his chair and stormed into the living room. "ENOUGH! I'M TRYING TO CONCENTRATE HERE! SHUT UP!"
"YOU CAN'T SILENCE ME YOU BALD HEADED FUCK!" The Toaster shouted in defiance. Toshi walked over and grabbed the household appliance. "HEY! PUT ME DOWN!" The tech expert walked out to the balcony and threw the Toaster over the edge! "GOOD LUCK MAKING TOAST!" It screamed before it hit the ground and shattered into hundreds of little pieces.
"Citizen! That was unbelievably seditious!" The Book chute said.
Toshi pulled out his glowing blue knife. It was his own personal creation which he had dubbed the Hack Knife. The blade itself was steel, but the electrical components inside the blade allowed it to hack into any computer system by simply jamming it into a holotape port. It also had the same damaging effects as Jingwei's shocksword.
"One more word out of you and I'll fry every last one of your circuits to a crisp." Toshi warned the book chute.
"Sir, I have a suggestion that would be copacetic for the both of us." The Sink Central Intelligence Unit said. "I could simply turn off the automated personalities to allow for more peace and quiet."
"Please! Do it!" Just like that, the room fell silent. "There is a God." He said as he went back to reviewing all the collected files. He found one labeled 'Rebirth Initiative' and was suddenly interested.
Camp Forlorn Hope: December 17, 2281. 9:03 P.M.
Tech Sergeant Alicia Reyes rubbed tiredly at her eyes as Major Polatli and the other troopers left the command tent to get some sleep. The reports of Legion reinforcements arriving along the Colorado continued to come in from multiple patrols and lookouts along the river. Reyes was starting to worry as the Legion reoccupied the Fort and were mounting strong defensive positions that could hinder the NCR during the fight for Hoover Dam.
Alicia was so tired and lost in her thoughts that she didn't hear someone enter the tent. She almost jumped out of her skin when she felt that person put a hand on her shoulder. Alicia turned to see an all too familiar Courier standing there with his hands held up in front of him.
"Easy Licia." Jason said using his nickname for her. "It's just me."
Reyes took a couple seconds to catch her breath before retaking her seat. "God you are such an assh- warn a girl next time?" She told the Courier, completely exasperated.
Jason chuckled and leaned down to plant a kiss on her cheek. "Sorry, had I known you were gonna go flying through the tent I would've knocked." He said as he pulled up a chair and took a seat next to her.
Alicia raised an eyebrow at Jason. "Knocked on what? The flap?"
"Nah, probably the table." He said with his trademark grin that always made her heart flutter.
"You mind telling me where you've been? I haven't seen you in almost three weeks." Alicia stated, turning to face her… what were they? That was something she needed to know.
Jason took a breath as he told Reyes everything that had happened to him at the Divide. Including the missile that was fired at the Legion and the mysterious figures that saved his life. Alicia listened intently as Jason talked about the aftermath of destruction he saw at the Divide, the marked men, and the tunnelers.
Once Jason finished retelling his story, Reyes reached out and took his hand in hers. "You're ok though, right?" She asked in concern. Him telling her about his near death in the silo chambers was enough to make her stomach churn.
Jason nodded. "Yeah." He gestured to himself and his new elite riot gear. "I'm right as rain… I promise you I'm ok Licia." He said, gently placing a hand against her cheek.
Alicia smiled sadly as she removed his hand from her face. "Can I talk to you Jason?"
The Courier raised an eyebrow at her question. "What are we doing right now?" He asked sarcastically. His comment earned him a well-deserved kick in the leg. "Ow! I'm kidding."
"I'm being serious Jason." The Tech Sergeant said with no trace of humor.
"Alright. I'm all ears. What do you want to talk about?" Jason asked.
"What are we?"
That question left Jason stumped for a little longer than it should have. "What do you mean?" The Courier asked, feigning ignorance.
Alicia scowled at the man. "You know damn well what I mean. This…" She gestured back and forth between them. "whatever we are. Whatever we have going on." Jason's eyes flicked away from her as he tried to find the right words. His long silence and lack of eye contact gave the Tech Sergeant an answer she didn't like. "I guess that answers my question." She said getting up to leave.
Jason stood up and reached out to grab her hand to halt her retreat. "Licia wait!"
She spun around to give him a look that would've killed most men on the spot. "Look, if all you're looking for is an easy lay, then don't bother coming to me. I'm not some cheap whore from Gomorrah." Alicia said as she tried to leave again, but Jason's firm grip kept her in place.
"Alicia, would you just listen to me?" Jason almost pleaded.
"What?" She asked, looking him in the eyes while hers were full of fire… and unshed tears.
Jason took a deep breath. "Look this isn't an easy thing for me."
"What isn't?"
"This!" He pointed back and forth between them. "The idea of an actual relationship, because I've never actually been in one."
Reyes gave Jason a disbelieving look. "Oh, give me a break. That's a load of shit."
Jason raised an eyebrow at her challengingly. "Really? Out of all the things you've heard about me; from getting shot in the head to killing Caesar himself, me not ever being in a relationship, that's the most unbelievable thing you've heard?"
Alicia pondered what he said for a second before replying. "Jason, you are an incredibly charismatic and handsome man. Of course, I find it hard to believe."
The Courier had a mischievous grin on his face as he cocked his head slightly. "You think I'm handsome?"
"And cocky." She added.
Jason chuckled, almost dejectedly. "Yeah… well when you have this," He pointed at the angry red scar that covered most of his neck. "a lot of women don't exactly care about the looks. They act like I'm some mutant half breed. They don't ever want to stop to think that maybe, just maybe, I got this scar because of a certain, psychotic, flamethrower wielding Fiend and his junkie friends."
Realization dawned on Reyes at that moment. "Cook-Cook."
Jason nodded. "That's why I was drawn to you Alicia. When we first met, you didn't stop to stare at my scar, hell you never asked how I got it. You treated me like a man that didn't have any burdens to carry."
"What about before you got the scar?"
"I was more focused on being a soldier in the NCR." Jason told her.
"Before that?"
Jason opened his mouth, but immediately clamped it shut. He always hated talking about his past, because it was never a good one. However, he felt like he owed Alicia an explanation. He sighed before sitting back down. "I was too busy surviving." He said, keeping his eyes on the floor.
Reyes had a look of confusion and she knelt down in front of him. She cupped his face in her hands and got him to look at her. "Hey. You of all people should know that I'm not a judgmental person. Whatever is going through your mind right now, you can tell me." Alicia assured him as she gently stroked her thumb against his cheek.
Jason sighed and placed a hang against on of hers. "I was an orphan Licia. I spent my entire childhood growing up on the streets, fighting, stealing food, sleeping in abandoned buildings, all just to make it to the next day." Now that definitely wasn't something Alicia was expecting. Out of every possible answer he could have given her, this wasn't one that came to mind. Jason took notice of the shocked look in her eyes and gave her a sad smile. "Not something you would expect from a guy like me?" She slowly shook her head in response. "Nobody ever does. I joined the army after a trooper caught me stealing something from a vendor. He gave me the option to go to jail or enlist so I wouldn't starve and I could, as he put it, "Be a part of something greater.""
"That's why you haven't been with anyone." Alicia said. More of a statement than it was a question.
Jason nodded. "Look. I don't know what we are Licia, but I do know one thing. I don't want it to be something casual. I want it to be something more, but only after we've beaten back the Legion."
The NCR Tech Sergeant nodded in understanding. "Ok. You realize I'm going to hold you to that?"
The Courier chuckled. "I'd expect nothing less." He said as he planted a chaste kiss against her lips. Reyes pulled him close, refusing to break the kiss.
Before they could go any further, Boone burst inside the tent, making them jump apart. "Jason, you need to head to the medical tent!"
"Why? What's wrong?" He asked as he and Alicia got up to follow the former NCR Sniper.
Boone didn't say anything as he led them into the medical tent where a group of NCR Rangers were standing over a wounded Legion Frumentarii they had brought in. Major Polatli was also in the crowd of soldiers. Dr. Richards was looking over the injuries on the wounded enemy soldier and they were grisly. He had been shot in both of his kneecaps as well as his elbows. Several of his teeth were missing and his nose was a bloody mess. You could even see his nasal bone sticking out of the skin. His entire face was swollen except for his right eye.
Jason moved to stand over the wounded Legionary. He looked to one of the Rangers. "What the fuck happened to him?"
The Ranger was just as surprised. "We don't know. Colonel Hsu sent us here to reinforce the Camp since the Fiends are pretty much wiped out. When we got to the Grub & Gulp Rest Stop, everyone had been killed, including all of the Frumentarii that launched the attack. At least a dozen of them. He's the only one that survived."
"Why bring him here? Why not Camp Golf since it's closer to the rest stop?" Jason asked.
"We heard you were here and figured this might be your handy work." Another Ranger informed the Courier.
Jason shook his head. "It wasn't me. I haven't been to the Grub & Gulp in weeks." He looked to Doc Richards. "How bad is he doc?"
"At this point, killing him would be mercy." Richards said grimly. "Multiple broken ribs, several stab wounds and lacerations across his torso. On top of that, the gunshot wounds to his limbs have left his nerves useless. He'll never be able use his arms or legs again. And take a look at this." The NCR doctor pointed at what appeared to be a boot imprint on the left side of the man's face. "Someone smashed his face in with their foot. The level of damage inflicted on this man tells me one thing."
"Someone wanted to make these guys suffer." Jason finished for the doctor, who nodded in agreement. The Courier looked back at the injured man, who was barely awake and looking at him with his good eye. "Who did this to you?"
The Frumentarii snarled at the Legion's worst enemy. "Courier!"
The Courier smacked the man across the face. "Yeah, me the fabled Courier. Now what happened?" He asked, already losing his patience.
Though the pain was excruciating, that didn't stop the Legion soldier from speaking. "Legate Lanius sent us to put an end to you, Courier… we had the perfect trap set up for you and anyone else that wandered too close. That's when she attacked."
"She?" Jason asked with growing curiosity. "She who?"
"I don't know." The man growled in frustration. "It was a wench clad in an NCR Ranger uniform."
Jason choked back a laugh of irony. "So, you and your buddies got your asses handed to you by a "profligate wench" as you would put it?" The Rangers laughed at the insult.
Instead of rising to the bait, the injured Legionnaire laughed, blood spilling out of the corner of his mouth. "Fool, she was not NCR."
That gained everyone's attention. "What do you mean she wasn't NCR?" Major Polatli asked.
The Frumentarii smiled maliciously as blood started filling his airway. "Do you have (Gasp) any idea (Gasp) how many of your whores I've slain personally?" He asked with a chuckle.
A few of the Rangers, angered by the man's insult against their sisters in uniform, made a move to finish him off, but the Courier put his hand up to stop them. "You're better than that. He's not worth it… not yet." The Rangers gave the Courier a respectful nod before stepping back. Jason turned back to the Legion assassin. "Why do you believe she's not with the NCR?"
"There was twelve of us (Gasp) and just one of her. That woman (Gasp) singlehandedly beat us all, (Gasp) most of us she didn't even use a weapon." The injured man explained with a hint of admiration in his voice.
That wasn't enough information for Jason though. "I've met plenty of Rangers that posses the skill to fight several opponents with their bare hands."
"Perhaps. But it was not her skills that told me she wasn't NCR. (Gasp) It's what she said to me… before she left me to die." He said as he coughed up more blood.
"What did she say?" Major Polatli asked, pressing for more intel.
The Frumentarii hawked up a wad of blood out of his mouth to clear his airway. "She knew I was alive. She walked over to me and placed her boot on my face. I told her to finish me off. I told her it wouldn't stop the Legion from putting a collar on her and every other NCR wench. Instead, she chuckled and said. "Even if the NCR loses, we won't."" He said emphasizing the word we. ""The NCR is a threat to you, but there's a bigger threat waiting to strike." After that, she left and now here I am. Whoever she is, she's not your common NCR whore."
"What did she look like? Where did she go?" Jason asked.
The Frumentarii just laughed. "You think I'd tell you? She may be an enemy of the Legion, but that doesn't mean she's a friend of the NCR."
"You're willing to defend her? She killed your men. You said she beat most of them to death. Look at what she did to you!" Jason said incredulously.
"True… very true. But here's the thing Courier. Our defeat at the hands of this woman… she has gained something from me that no other has… my respect. Plus, you not knowing who she is, or what her intentions are, that confounds you. All the more reason not to say another word on the matter and there's nothing you can do to make me talk." The Frumentarii said triumphantly.
Jason unsheathed his combat knife. "You're right." With that, he jammed the blade into the wounded Legionnaire's head, quickly killing him. Jason pulled the knife free and wiped it against the dead soldier's uniform. "Major, I think we need to inform Chief Hanlon that he's got an imposter roaming the Mojave."
Polatli nodded. "Agreed. Sergeant Reyes, get on the radio and inform Camp Golf and the Ranger Stations to be on the lookout for a female spy!"
"Yes sir." Reyes looked at the Courier one last time before leaving the tent to notify the Rangers throughout the Mojave.
As most of the NCR personnel filed out of the medical tent, Jason remained where he was, thinking about everything the Frumentarii just told him.
"What are you thinking Jason?" Boone asked him.
Jason turned to face his companion. "A mysterious aircraft appears to the north of us, a group of people save my life in the Divide and I don't know who they are, and now we've got a woman disguised as a Ranger, solitarily killing an entire squad of Frumentarii. No such thing as coincidences."
"You think there's a connection?" The sniper wondered.
Jason nodded. "I think we have new players in town."
Freeside: December 17, 2281. 11:04 P.M.
"You know I love you, but sometimes I wonder if you've got a death wish." Eric said as he injected a stimpak in Melissa's arm. She didn't come out of her fight with the Legion squad unscathed. One of the Frumentarii managed to leave a long and nasty gash against her right shoulder blade. Now that she was back, she stripped out of her upper clothing, minus her bra, so Eric could patch up her wound.
As Eric reached for the needle and stiches, Melissa gave him a look that asked 'Are you serious?' "Me?! This coming from a guy who went into Pittsburgh to take out an entire army of raiders and mutants to liberate a bunch of slaves, then had to fight his way past said slaves to save a fucking baby."
"Hey! For the record, I had Butch with me!" Eric said defensively as he attached the thread to the needle.
"Oh, I guess that makes it sooooo much easier then. Two stooges take on hundreds of enemies by themselves and I'm getting chastised for taking on a dozen Legion soldiers." Melissa said, almost casually.
"Ok first of all, who are you calling a stooge? Secondly, the Legion isn't full of amateur raiders. They're all well-trained and well-equipped killers." Eric stated matter-of-factly.
"Well-trained killers that haven't faced us yet. Not until now at least." Melissa said with a victorious smirk.
Eric groaned as he shook his head. "Stubborn woman."
"Fuck you."
"When and where?"
Carter had been listening to the two officers' bicker as he monitored the radio. He knew they were poking fun at each other, but the moment they started making sexual remarks was when he put his foot down. He took off his headset and looked at the two. "HEY! As your landlord I have a policy about loud sexual noises and lascivious behavior! I'm gonna have to ask you to stop!"
"Shut up Carter!" Eric and Melissa said synchronously, making the radio operator chuckle almost childishly. "And what makes you think you're the landlord? We are the commanding officers here."
"Hey, you left me in charge of the building. That makes me the owner!" Carter stated.
"Oh, get back to your radio and you," Eric turned to Melissa. "Sit!" He ordered, pointing at a chair. The Shadow Knight Captain groaned as she sat down in the chair. Eric got a cloth that he drenched in vodka and applied it to the laceration, causing Melissa's body to tense as she let out a painful hiss. "Sorry."
"It's alright. I prefer this over anything else." Melissa assured.
"Yeah. Hold still." He told as he started stitching her wound. "What all did you get at Camp Golf?"
Melissa reached over to grab the holotape that was stashed in the Ranger armor pad. "Everything. Troop movements, Ranger reports, supply statuses, mission statements. I got the whole shebang. I also managed to plant a bug in one of their radios. There's one thing that really caught my attention though."
"Which is?" Eric asked as he continued to stich Melissa's wound.
"That guy we pulled out of the Divide. Jason Bowers?" Eric nodded. "He's a former NCR soldier. And he's been busy here in the Mojave since his discharge."
Eric tied off the stitches and applied a bandage wrap to her shoulder. "Busy how?"
"See for yourself." She said handing him the holotape.
Eric inserted the tape into his Pip-Boy and scrolled through a lot of the information. Most of the information from the last three months were reports on Jason's accomplishments in helping the NCR fight the Legion. Not only that, there were reports on how the Courier helped the NCR with supply shortages and other issues. He ejected the holotape and inserted the one he used to download everything off of Colonel Hsu's terminal at Camp McCarren.
"To say this guy has been busy is a fucking understatement." Eric said admiring the achievements of this Courier.
"What did you find?" Melissa asked.
Before he could reply, Marin and Reynolds entered the building and locked the door behind them. "Find anything?" Eric asked.
"Uh, do decaying corpses count as something?" Reynolds asked as he took a sip from his flask.
"Actually yes, they do."
"Oh, then we found a lot. Every Fiend we came across in South Vegas was dead. They've been dead for weeks, probably longer. Not only that, Vault 3 was the central hub for all Fiends in the Mojave. Not a single living soul inside. Motor-Runner, the head honcho himself, we found his body with his head on the other side of the room." Marin told his Lieutenant.
"I think I know why. Listen to this!" Eric said as he found the most recent report on the Fiends. "Thanks to the help of independent courier, Jason Bowers, the Fiends are no longer a threat to NCR forces as well as innocent civilians. His assistance has proved vital to the Republic's victory here in the Mojave. The death of Fiend leaders Violet, Cook-Cook, Driver Nephi, and Motor-Runner, along with other low-ranking Fiend leaders, has caused total collapse amongst these raiders. I sent Ranger Bryce Anders and a squad of troopers to kill any remaining stragglers and they came back within an hour stating the mission was a total success. They encountered almost little to no resistance from the surviving Fiends. I think the troops here at McCarren can finally rest easy at night without having to worry about some crazed junkie slitting their throats the next day. Signed, Colonel James Hsu."
Melissa whistled in respect. "I'm impressed."
A knock on the door gathered their attention. "Who is it?" Eric asked.
"It's Myers." Reynolds unlocked the door and let the marksman inside. "LT, you are not going to believe what I found out!"
"Does it have anything to do with Jason Bowers?" Eric asked.
Myers narrowed her eyes and put her hands on her hips. "Alright, how do you do that? Do you have telepathic powers we don't know about?"
Once again, before he could reply, AJ walked into the room with a huge bag over his shoulder. "Sup bitches!"
"What the hell have you got?" Melissa asked, choosing to ignore the SAW gunner's brazen remark.
AJ smiled as he dropped the bag and opened it up to reveal a bunch of caps. "Turns out I'm good at blackjack."
Eric pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration. "AJ, I sent you to the strip to gather intel, not gamble."
"50,000 caps right there." He said pointing at the bag with a huge grin. "We won't have to worry about running low on supplies anytime soon."
"AJ!"
"Relax LT. I got all of the info needed before I decided to try my hand at the tables. By the way I'm banned from the Ultra-Lux and Gomorrah."
"Get to the point before I put you on latrine detail for a month." Eric warned.
"Right, so it turns out there was a lot of bad shit happening on the Strip. The three Families that run the Strip, the Chairmen, the White Glove Society, and the Omertas, they had some inner conflicts. The Omertas were smuggling weapons in the city, planning to take control of it from Mr. House. Not only that, there was a lot of shady drug abuse going on with their hired hookers at their casinos. The treatment of those girls was just god awful until Nero and Big Sal, the guys in charge of the Omertas, were removed from the picture. The guy running the Omertas now, his name is Cachino. Ever since he become the boss, things have been running smoothly. The weapons were destroyed, drugs aren't permitted in their casinos, and the girls are treated and paid decently."
"Where'd you find all of this out?" Melissa asked with folded arms.
"A hooker named Dazzle at the Gomorrah. Turns out she's a great conversationalist." AJ said.
"Yeah after you payed her." Marin stated.
"Yes, but from everything I saw at the Gomorrah, the Venetian, Caesar's Palace, and the Mirage, it backs up everything she told me." AJ informed his officers, not wanting them to discredit his information. Eric nodded and gestured for his SAW gunner to continue. "The White Glove Society, they used to be a tribe of cannibals, something they want to erase that from their past. There was a few of them that tried to revert their followers back to cannibalism, but like the former Omerta bosses, they got taken out as well. Finally, the Chairmen, their business wasn't booming like it used to until someone started sending performers to their casinos. Plus, the leader of the Chairmen, Benny, he was making a move to take control of Vegas from Mr. House. He shot a guy in the head and stole something that would allow him to succeed in becoming the King of Vegas. Benny's dead now and the new guy in charge, his name is Swank. Here's the kicker… the guy Benny shot in the head, it's the same guy that cleaned up all the problems on the Strip. And it's the very same guy we rescued from the Divide."
Eric's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Jason Bowers."
AJ snapped his fingers and pointed at the Lieutenant. "Bingo. You just won the jackpot. But there's something else. Bowers killed Mr. House."
That information came as a complete shock to both Reynolds and Marin. "WHAT?!"
AJ nodded. "Shortly after Mr. House's Securitrons were upgraded, he died of "unknown circumstances." Jason Bowers, plus a few friends of his, did something that no one else has done in over 200 years. They entered the Lucky 38 Casino. Because of that, it's a good chance that Bowers had a hand in Mr. House's death. If I heard correctly from a couple Chairmen and White Gloves, the Vegas Families have pledged support to Jason Bowers."
"That's not all." Myers spoke up to get everyone's attention. "I did a lot of asking around here in Freeside. Found an NCR soldier that told me Bowers. Killed. Caesar."
Everyone's eyes almost popped out of their heads. Eric quickly scanned through his Pip-Boy and found a report labeled 'Destruction of Fortification Hill.'
"Jason Bowers did the impossible. He stormed the Legion occupied Fort with a small group of companions and left it almost in ruins. Not only did he succeed in killing Caesar himself, but he also neutralized Vulpes Inculta, Caesar's head of Frumentarii, and Lucius, head of Caesar's Praetorians." Eric read.
Reynolds and Marin couldn't believe their greatest enemy was dead. "He's removed two of the biggest faction leaders in the Mojave."
Upon hearing that, Eric looked to Melissa and could tell she was thinking the same thing he was. "This explains a lot. Why the Fiends are all dead. Why the Legion haven't made many recent trips across the Colorado. Bowers isn't working for the NCR. He's been playing them all along. He's making a move to rip Vegas from their grasp after the Legion gets beaten back."
Melissa looked unsure for a second. "Our orders are to establish good relations between the NCR and the United Alliance. Does this make Bowers a potential obstacle?"
"No. This is a game changer. Bowers may be trying to take control of the Mojave, but I don't think he's trying to become an enemy to the NCR. I think he's trying to take pressure off of them. Them and the Mojave. The Mojave doesn't want the NCR in control just as much as they don't want the Legion, and the NCR is slowly falling apart. Reynolds you and Marin have made that clear. Plus, some of the reports I've read back up those statements. If the people of the Mojave want Bowers as a leader, then why shouldn't he be?" Eric asked looking around to his squad. "Ulysses was right. If the UA wants to have a successful reformation of America, then we need leaders like Jason Bowers. He'd be a damn good asset to the Alliance."
"You realize General Wells and the others aren't going to be happy?" Melissa stated with slight apprehension.
"They can deal with it." Eric said, brushing off her concern.
The Shadow Knight Captain let out a breath. "Alright. I'll talk to General Foster, hopefully he can sway the Council." She said getting up to use the radio.
"Are we going to get court-martialed for this? If so… fucking awesome!" AJ said in a way too enthusiastic tone. "ANARCHY!"
The others chuckled. "If it comes to that, I'll take full responsibility." Eric promised his squad as he gathered them around the map of the Mojave. "Tomorrow I'll send you guys out to different locations. AJ, even though you spent a lot of time gambling, you did bring some valuable intel. For that, you're my permanent eyes and ears on the Strip. Is there a place there where you can lay low?"
AJ nodded. "There's a vault at the end of the Strip that was converted into a hotel. Cheap too, only 50 caps a night."
Eric nodded. "Take enough caps to last you two weeks. Knowing you, you'll probably gamble and win more money and have enough to stay longer if needed. Reynolds, I want you at Goodsprings, Myers at Primm, and Marin at Novac… Why the fuck is it called Novac?"
"Because the hotel sign fell apart. Instead of no vacancy it says Novac." Reynolds informed.
Eric snorted. "That's funny. Alright, bed down for the night. Head out at zero nine hundred. Dismissed."
As the Pride all left to get some sleep, Melissa walked over to Eric. "Well, Foster isn't pleased, but he agrees with us, so he's on board. He'll talk to the Council in the morning. But he's going to need some of our intel to help his case."
Eric nodded and looked past her at Carter. "Any word on Toshi?"
Carter removed his headset and unplugged it from the radio so they all could hear. "Perfect timing actually. Toshi. LT and Cap are here. What have you got for them?"
"Plenty. I'll start out with something that may shed some light on Compound Alpha."
"What do you mean?" Eric asked.
"Remember how you told me that all of the soldiers at Rebirth survived their time in cryo stasis? Well I found out why. General Chase made sure at least six nuclear reactors were installed. One reactor would've been enough to keep the base going, but a secondary was installed in case the first one stopped functioning. The cryo chambers however, they required a larger power output. According to tests they conducted here at Big Mountain, cryogenics as well as the life support systems needed to keep people alive during cryo sleep, required twice as much power. That's why an additional four nuclear reactors were installed. One for the cryo chambers, one for the life support systems, and two more in case either one shut down."
Melissa understood where this was going. "That does explain why no one died at Rebirth… how does it tie into Compound Alpha?"
"Construction of Compound Alpha was never fully completed before the bombs fell. Only three reactors were constructed while the other three hadn't been started on."
"It's possible the life-support systems had suffered occasional brownouts. Which is why so many people had died at the Compound." Eric deduced. "Anything else?"
"Yeah. Rebirth had 30,000 troops assigned to it, but Compound Alpha only has 3,000 civilians assigned. Did they just randomly select families?"
"Yes and no. No, because majority of the soldiers assigned to Rebirth didn't have any familial attachments. Yes, because those that did have families were chosen because they were either related to a high-ranking officer or they had unique skills and backgrounds. Doctors, engineers, scientists." Melissa informed.
"Basically, anyone that could contribute to the restoration of America."
"Exactly."
"One last thing. That guy we saved in the Divide. He's been here."
Melissa was just as shocked as Carter, but Eric was unphased by that info. "After everything I've heard about the guy, I wouldn't be surprised if walked on the moon."
"Wait… what?"
"Don't worry about it Toshi. Just get back here as soon as you can." Eric said as Carter went back to monitoring the radio. He looked to Melissa. "Get some rest. I'm going to start relaying these reports to Foster."
D.C. Central Command: December 18, 2281. 9:15 A.M.
In the aftermath of the Capital Siege, after the local towns and settlements had been rebuilt, the U.S. Military went to work on rebuilding a command center to coordinate their forces. The remains of the Citadel had been removed and in its place was a new structure. Though it no longer resembled the Pentagon and wasn't as big, it was still large enough to act as the headquarters for the Armed Forces. Two stories tall and a little smaller than the Jefferson Memorial.
Major General Mike Foster, the commanding general for the 189th Special Forces Group aka Shadow Elite, walked down the hall with two Shadow Knights that always acted as his personal security. Foster was beyond exhausted, but he wasn't going to let it show as he moved with a purpose. In his hands was a folder that was filled with paperwork and it was as thick as a phone book. The Shadow Knight General approached the entrance to the United Alliance Council Chambers. It was similar to that of the East Coast Brotherhood's Great Hall.
Mike looked to his security. "Head on to the breakroom guys! Hopefully this meeting won't be too long."
"Yes sir." The Shadow Knights replied as they took their leave.
General Foster took a deep breath before entering the room. Inside the room was the other commanders for the U.S. Military as well as those of the of the Midwestern and Texas Brotherhood. General Andrew Wells, the commanding officer for the entirety of the American Armed Forces was sitting at the main desk. Around him was Major Generals Doug Michaelson, Ashley Brookes, Frank Webb, and Rear Admiral John Howard. Next to General Wells was Midwestern Brotherhood General Jack Monroe and Texas Brotherhood General Tyler Phillips.
General Wells looked up and smiled at the Shadow Knight commander's arrival. "Mike. Good you're here. We can get this meeting started. Our preparations to attack the Legion are going as planned. Majority of our power armored forces are staged and ready to move. Ground support and aircraft are on standby. Mike, what's Shadow Elite's status?"
"I've got 500 Shadow Knights scattered across Legion territory; they'll make their move when the Legion attacks Hoover Dam… Before we continue with this meeting," Mike said as he looked at the others. "I believe we need to discuss a topic that's just as important."
Curiousness got the better of Andrew. "Proceed."
Mike took a second to gather his thoughts as all eyes fell on him. "I believe the Council needs to rethink its decision to have the NCR join the Alliance."
Some of the commanders groaned when they heard his proposition. Andrew rubbed a finger against his temple. "Mike we've been through this already."
"Just hear me out!" The Shadow Knight implored as he held up the file of reports for everyone to see. "I stayed up all night copying NCR files and reports that was gathered by Lieutenant Eric Daniels and his squad. Some of these files require the Council's attention."
"Hold on a second Mike! Lieutenant Daniels' orders were to recon and survey the Mojave and find a way to establish good relations with the NCR until we've arrived. Who gave him the orders to conduct espionage against the NCR?" General Wells asked as he became very aggravated.
"Nobody sir."
Aggravation turned into anger. "So, he's gone against our orders? My orders specifically?!" Andrew scoffed with indignation. "Tell Lieutenant Daniels he's relieved of his command and that Captain Broadhead is in charge of Lion's Pride!"
"I'm afraid I can't do that sir." Mike said, knowing the argument was about to go into full effect.
"Why the hell not?" The tone in Andrew's voice was colder than the winter weather outside.
"Because Captain Broadhead agrees with Lieutenant Daniels and stands by his decision sir." Mike remained steadfast against his superior officer's growing anger.
General Wells clenched his knuckles and let out an almost derisive chuckle. "I should've known. You were never fully on board with the Council's decision to allow the NCR into the Alliance. You had a feeling Lieutenant Daniels would go against our orders because of his distrust towards the NCR. You knew Captain Broadhead would defend his choice because of her relationship with him. That's why you sent her to act as his supervisor isn't it?"
General Foster stood at attention as he did an outstanding job of containing the smirk that threatened to break out. "I can't fix it if I don't know what's broken sir."
General Monroe leaned forward with his hands folded. "General Foster, need I remind you that the Midwestern and Texas Brotherhood no longer hold any ill will against the NCR? The NCR would be a great addition to the Alliance mainly because of their military capabilities, as well as the territory they hold. When the day comes that the Alliance unifies into a single operational nation, the NCR's contribution could prove to be invaluable."
Mike knew the Brotherhood General was trying to use logical reasoning to defuse the rising tensions, but the information he had defied those reasons. "With all due respect sir, this isn't about the Brotherhoods' past with the NCR. Even if it was, who's to say the NCR still doesn't hold any grudges against you? And you are correct, the NCR could contribute a lot, but with their current leadership, I don't foresee any reasoning with them. Neither does Lieutenant Daniels. He believes there's someone that would be more beneficial to the Alliance."
"Who?" Marine Corps General Michaelson asked.
"A former NCR soldier turned courier. His name is Jason Bowers. According to the intel Lieutenant Daniels has gathered, Mr. Bowers plans on turning the Mojave into an independent nation." Mike said as he sat the folder down on the desk, hoping someone would be willing to look at its contents.
"He wants us to support someone that would potentially turn the NCR into an enemy? Absolutely not, that's the last thing the Alliance needs." Andrew said firmly. "Since your soldiers have refused to follow our orders, I'm ordering them to cease all operations in the Mojave. I'll find someone else to takeover for them. If they don't cooperate, there will be hell to pay."
The threat against his soldiers made Mike narrow his eyes at the four-star General as he placed the file on the desk. "How about you take that stick out of your ass, sir!"
The other Generals all inhaled sharply as Andrew slowly got to his feet. He looked like a deathclaw ready to pounce. "I suggest you watch your attitude Mike! I'm still your superior officer! Now order Lion's Pride to stand down before I throw them all in a cell when they get back!"
"Andrew!" Mike couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Are you listening to yourself right now?" He asked as he walked around the desk until he was standing face to face with General Wells. "You're willing to condemn Eric for trying to look out for us?"
"What he's doing does nothing to benefit the Alliance!" Andrew sneered.
"THIS ISN'T ABOUT BENEFITING THE ALLIANCE! THIS IS ABOUT DOING WHAT'S RIGHT FOR IT! FOR THE PEOPLE WE ARE TRYING TO PROTECT!" Mike exploded in vexation before speaking in a calmer manner. "I don't understand what's going through your mind right now Andrew. Eric may be one of our soldiers, but if you recall correctly, he volunteered to help us. When you asked him to be our personal advisor, he accepted without hesitation." The Shadow Knight General pointed a finger at Andrew. "You wanted Eric to act as our advisor. You believed his input and advice would be crucial for us, because you were afraid of making the same mistakes our government did. Now you are telling me that his advice isn't worth a dime? That we should just shrug off his advice after two years and act like it never mattered in the first place?" Mike said as he jabbed his finger at Andrew every time he emphasized the word "you."
Andrew was seething at the veteran Shadow Knight's outburst. "This conversation is over Mike. You're out of this meeting, get out!" He said with finality as he retook his seat.
Mike's eyes were focused on Andrew before looking around at the other commanders. They looked as if they wanted to say something, but none of them spoke. They just stayed quiet.
The Shadow Knight General sighed with defeat, but he wasn't fully beaten yet. "Fine. Sit there and act like a pissy politic instead of a real leader." He said turning to leave.
Before Mike had time to act, General Wells was back on his feet and shoved him against the wall. Mike let out a small grunt as the other commanders moved to break up the fight, but the Shadow Knight quickly raised a hand to stop them. General Wells had Mike by the collar of his dress uniform with his robotic left hand, while his right hand was balled into a fist. Both men were staring each other down, silently daring the other to make a move.
"Go ahead. Do it! Prove my point… General Babcock." Mike sneered.
The other US commanders gaped at General Foster in disbelief. Andrew… he felt like he had been punched in the stomach with a power fist. The comparison between him and the turncoat General that had killed Chase was worse than any other insult in the world. General Wells relinquished his hold on Mike and slowly took a couple steps back.
Mike took a deep breath and straightened out his uniform. "I think I get it Andrew. You're afraid… you're afraid that after everything we've been through, everything we've done in the past two years… you're afraid it'll be for nothing." When the four-star General looked down it confirmed Mike's suspicion. "You believe that because the NCR is the only faction with an actual functioning government, it'll better our chances. This isn't about their military or resources… it's about their political benefits. Andrew… We're all scared. But we need to put our fears aside, because if we don't… then we will lose everything. We jump the gun and it's over for us. We're here because of Eric and we owe it to him to listen to his advice. If we stop now, then we're no better than the leaders we followed before the war."
Everyone in the room slowly processed what Mike said. The Shadow Knight General decided it was time he left. As he reached the door, he turned and looked at the others. "If you want to go through with this, fine. I can't stop you; I can't stop the Council. Just let me make this clear though… If the NCR steps one iota outta line… if they jeopardize everything, we've worked for… I'll do whatever I have to." It was no threat. It was a promise that he was willing to go through with.
With that, he walked out of the room and slammed the door shut behind him. The other commanders just sat there in stunned silence. Everyone looked to General Wells who still had his eyes on the door before he looked down at his desk. He noticed that Mike left the folder with all the reports and files behind.
Andrew stared at the folder for what felt like an eternity before he slowly reached down and opened it, pulling out the first report. The others slowly got up and started grabbing separate documents and began looking them over.
Area 51: January 5, 2282. 9:41 P.M. (18 Days Later)
The familiar whirring sound of multiple helicopters had echoed throughout the classified pre-war base. After Captain Thompson and his Rangers had freed the families from Compound Alpha, they had them sent to Mothership Zeta via a beacon that Elliot had dropped at the base entrance. Once their families were safe and sound back in D.C. the Rangers, as well as the troops assigned to the compound had spent a lot of time clearing the desert sand that had blocked the entrances to the hangers and vehicle depot. The troops assigned to the base were Marines from the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. With them were the remnants of the U.S. Coast Guard's Maritime Safety and Security.
Initially the Coast Guard personnel were supposed to go back with the surviving families, but because of all the Marines that had died in cryo, they were ordered to stay back and provide assistance. They were under the command of Chief Warrant Officer Michael Kalani.
Kalani, a caucasian man that was native Hawaiian, was a 20-year Maritime Enforcement Specialist that had seen plenty of action against Chinese naval infantry. His marksmanship as well as skills in Krav-Maga made him a very formidable opponent. The 5'11" man was also intimidating with his burly strength and piercing brown eyes. The Coast Guardsman slung his M4 over his shoulder and boarded a Huey, where he manned the door gun.
Marines and other Guardsmen boarded the helicopters while the rest hopped onto the Humvees and M35 trucks with the Rangers. Sergeant Marcus Phillips, Eric's master driver/pilot was hopping into the driver's seat of one of four next generation tanks. The M1A1 Abrams tank, designed by Chryslus Motors and General Atomics International. This tank was set to replace the M60 Patton and provide better ground support for troops in future conflicts, but only four had been created before the bombs fell. All of them were shipped to Area 51.
Captain Thompson had become the acting commander for the Marines and Coast Guard personnel since all other high-ranking officers had died during cryo sleep. He was the highest-ranking officer left in charge of these men and women.
Once he made sure all supplies from the base had been gathered and his troops were mobilized, Captain Thompson got in the lead Humvee with Butch being his driver. As the massive convoy of vehicles departed through the main entrance, the Hueys and Vertibirds all took to the skies, heading off in the direction of Vegas.
Lucky 38
"How many Yes Man?" Jason asked in concern as he saw the map of southern Nevada on the giant screen, several blimps on the map.
"I've detected 18 unknown aircraft Jason. All of them are heading our way." Yes Man informed as the screen went back to his face.
"Fuck." Jason growled.
"What are we going to do Jason?" Boone asked.
Jason wanted to be ready for whoever these unknown foes were, but there was something in the back of his head telling him not to worry. The reason for that is because whoever these people were, they had saved his life in the Divide, they had killed an entire Legion Frumentarii squad. "Yes Man continue to monitor. Do not engage laser defenses unless these people show hostile intent."
"You got it!" Yes Man said cheerfully.
Jason's companions were shocked. "Jason, what are you doing?" Cass asked.
"Taking a leap of faith." The Courier said.
Before anyone could say anything, Yes Man spoke up. "Exciting news! The Legion's massing troops in a staging area east of the dam! Attack imminent! Monster of the East, ready to roll!"
This was it. The Second Battle for Hoover Dam was starting. "Let's go guys!" Jason said as Yes Man produced the override control module needed to reroute power from Hoover Dam to the Securitron Vault.
Jason, Boone, Cass, Veronica, and Rex all boarded the elevator and readied their weapons. Jason, with his All-American rifle and his elite riot gear ready, mentally began to prepare for his upcoming fight with Legate Lanius.
The Devil's Throat
Past the irradiated crater were four figures, three of them in combat armor, one in Desert Ranger armor. The same armor worn by the Desert Rangers that had protected Nevada ever since their inception from the fires of the Great War.
The man wearing that armor was Kane Bailey, Midwestern Brotherhood of Steel Paladin who proudly fought for the Nevada Rangers. For years he and the Rangers had fought against Caesar's Legion until the NCR came into the picture. In 2271, when the Desert Rangers signed the Ranger Unification Treaty, they were absorbed in the NCR Rangers. In exchange, the NCR moved in to secure Hoover Dam and Nevada from the Legion. Bailey didn't believe in the treaty though. He believed that the Desert Rangers absorption into the NCR erased everything they had stood for since their birth. Because of his refusal to be apart of the NCR, he left the Rangers behind and traveled east until he met up with the Midwestern Brotherhood. Bailey found new purpose with the Brotherhood, fighting for the people of the wasteland instead of the economic benefits of the NCR.
On the chest plate of his armor was both the Brotherhood and Desert Rangers insignias, crossed in together. The 5'7" man stood tall and proud as he looked off towards the horizon where the lights of Vegas still shined bright. His steely blue eyes looking through the Ranger combat helmet's night vision lenses.
"Glad to be back Bailey?" A member of his squad asked.
Bailey barely glanced back. "Depends. We'll see how everything goes." He slung his suppressed M14 EBR over his shoulder and grabbed his radio. "Shadow Scout this is Desert Steel, come in over."
A few seconds later Eric's voice came over the radio. "Desert Steel? I read you loud and clear brother. Long time no talk."
Bailey smirked. He and his squad had worked together with Lion's Pride on numerous occasions. Kane always found Eric to be one of the best leaders and probably one of the most noble people in the wasteland. "Yes, it has. Listen, we're currently by the Devil's Throat in the northeast sector of the Mojave. General Monroe figured you could use a hand in case any unforeseen events come into play."
"Hey, the more the merrier. We'll see you soon."
Near Forlorn Hope
The Pride's sniper, Richard Spreng carefully monitored the Colorado River from his well dug and well concealed sniper's nest close to forlorn hope. Looking down the scope of his suppressed M110 rifle, he spotted several Legion soldiers pushing boats along the river. There had to be hundreds of the red skirt bastards.
He pulled out his radio. "LT, we got a problem. I've got hundreds of Legion troops moving along the Colorado. They're about to cash in their chips."
Freeside
Eric spoke into his radio so his whole squad could hear him. "Understood. All Pride members listen up! The Legion's launching their attack. Spreng, alert Forlorn Hope and provide aid from the shadows. Marin stay hidden at Camp Golf. Reynold's provide support at Novac. Toshi, Williams, I want you to leave Novac and help Spreng to keep the Legion from advancing across the river!" When he received acknowledgement from his squad, he looked to those in the room with him. "Carter, you'll stay here and help the Kings in case they get any trouble. Melissa, AJ… where's Myers?"
General Oliver's Office
Inside the NCR General's office at Hoover Dam, the Pride's expert marksman, disguised as an NCR Ranger, was hacking away at the computer and downloading all information she could get. One file she came across immediately caught her attention… her blood ran cold when she finished reading. She had turned her radio down so no one would hear her. Turning the volume back up, she spoke. "Marin listen to me. I need you to shadow Chief Hanlon. Do not let him out of your sights!" She whispered.
"Myers! Where are you?" Eric asked.
"I'm at the Dam LT… why?"
"Get out of there! The Legion's launching their attack!"
An explosion echoed throughout the dam, making Myers draw the cowboy repeater she had "acquired."
"Fuck my life." She said preparing for one hell of a fight.
Freeside
"AJ link up with Myers!" Eric ordered, but the squad gunner was already out the door in a dead sprint to go help his assistant gunner.
"Shadow Scout this is Desert Steel. I've got a battalion of Legion soldiers trying to flank their way around the northeast towards Camp Guardian." Paladin Bailey informed in a whisper over the radio.
"We're heading to you now. Can you keep them distracted until then?" Melissa asked.
Kane chuckled through the radio. "Here I thought you were going to give me a challenge."
Eric walked over to Carter's radio. "Captain Thompson do you hear me?"
"I hear you Eric."
"Redirect your airborne units to the northeast sector of the Mojave. We've got a massive Legion force trying to punch their way around." Eric told the Ranger Captain.
"Copy. Chief Kalani did you get that?"
"Roger. Task Force Halo inbound to give the Legion a whole new way to hurt!" Chief Kalani said as the Marines on his helicopter could be heard letting out their historic battle cry. "OORAH!"
"Kane. You've got reinforcements on the way! We're heading to you now." Eric said before he and Melissa grabbed their weapons and left the building to take on the Enemy of the East.
Carter got back on his radio. "Shadow Command this is Shadow Scout, the Legion is on the move! I say again, the Legion is on the move!"
Though the Battle for Hoover Dam was just starting, the real Battle for the Mojave has yet to come.
AND THAT WRAPS IT UP FOR CHAPTER 2! What did Myers find on General Oliver's terminal that got her spooked? And I hope you're all ready because the next chapter is going to be BIGGER! SOOOO MUCH BIGGER! SO MUCH FIGHTING! The Legion is about to meet it's downfall.
As always, remember to leave a like or follow or review. I welcome reviews and I welcome reviews with constructive criticism as always, just be polite.
NCRMC signing off to send those RED SKIRT BASTARDS TO HELL!