I entered my accommodations to investigate the noise coming from it. The sounds of laughing and objects crashing all around can be heard throughout the Homebase. From that moment I knew it could be KOS fooling around or KOS going through my personal belongings. By the looks of it, it was Devil trying to stop KOS from going through my belongings. The sight was kind of funny in my opinion, the way Devil is holding back KOS with all his might and failing miserably at the same time. KOS, on the other hand, was reading my personal log out loud while Psycho stood with a smirk on his face watching the fight before him. Don't get me wrong it was kind of funny to see.
" Stop reading that! Falcon might be here soon, and your ass will be on a silver platter! " Devil said while trying to remain stoic.
" Oh he won't do anything to me, he loves me. Now, where was I? " KOS said before returning to my log, and that was when I decided to step in before he can utter a single word.
" The part where I serve your ass on the silver platter while Psycho watches. " I said while earning a couple of laughs.
" So, why did you call us here again? " KOS said while looking puzzled.
" He requested us here to discuss a strategy for the convoy raid in two days from now. " Psycho said clarifying the situation for KOS.
" Thank you, Psycho, the plan is to attack a UWPF convoy containing vital supplies we could use to help the Renegades. " I said
" Who is coming with us? " Devil asked politely.
" Alpha Squad and Bravo squad with assistance from Predator for extra fire power. " I answered his question while KOS raised his hand to ask a question. " What is your question KOS? "
" Am I enough firepower fo the team? " he said while holding his M79 grenade launcher.
" First off, no you are not enough firepower for the team. Second off, put that away before Devil and I hold you down while Psycho slowly cuts off your hands with a rusty file. Got it! " I said angerly due towards his antics.
" Fine, whatever you say Falcon. " KOS expressed in a somber tone.
" Good, let's discuss the plan shall we? " I stated while going towards my bookshelf. I opened the top drawer to retrieve the map of the area along with a UWPF protocol book. The three looked at the book quizzingly until Devil decided to speak up.
" Why do you a UWPF protocol book and how did you obtain it? Those types of books are hard to get it in the first place. " Devil said while I gave him the book to examine.
" Shadow is the one who gave me the book. He told me since I'm part of Alpha team and should have something like this. Also, he said to me, that he retrieved it from an officer's corpse in one operation. " I said while pointing towards the map. " From what Shadow told me, the highway towards Nashville will have a UWPF convoy transporting valuable goods such as ammo, food, and medical supplies. According to protocol, the convoy should have protection along the trip in case anything happens. " I concluded while looking to Devil to add in his thoughts.
" No matter the size of the convoy, the protection will always be the same, and we can use it towards our advantage. The escort should be at least two or three Humvees with standard .50 cal turrets consisting of three UWPF soldiers. It also depends on the type of cargo they carrying too. " Devil finished his statement before putting the book down at the table.
" Thank you, any other questions? " I said while waiting for any questions.
" How many convoy vehicles and how many per vehicle? " Psycho said.
" The mission dossier says that convoy will consist of two convoy vehicles with one driver and one gunner each. So, probably around ten to thirteen people total. " I answered his question
" This should be too easy! We will be in and out in no time at all before they call reinforcements. " KOS said with pleasure.
" Still it can always be a trap. So, be on your wits boys. " Psycho said with a calm demeanor.
" Psycho is right you know, we can not always have everything go our way in this war. All we can is to make it out and survive. And to remember the fallen who gave their lives for a better future. " Devil said
" That is why we train and fight. It is to survive and not to let the fallen lives be in vain. " I said to them while going into my drawer to recover four shot glasses and a bottle of whiskey. I handed each of them a shot glass and poured them a shot each.
I raised my shot glass up high. " For the Renegades. " I said
" For the fallen. " Psycho said as he followed.
" For our brothers and sisters. " KOS said as he rose his shot glass.
" For the end of the end of the New World Order. " Devil said as he joined us.
" We are the Renegades! " we all shouted as we downed our shots.
" Well it is settled then, KOS and Predator will take out the armor. Devil will assist Bravo team, and Psycho will help Alpha team with Shadow and me. Everyone in agreement? " I said
" Me and Predator will obliterate the scum! " KOS shouted
" Bravo team will be in safe hands. " Devil said calmly.
" Alpha team will be all right with us around. " Psycho said.
" Okay, that is good to hear. You are all dismissed enjoy the rest of day. " I said as they left my accommodations.
After the planning of the mission strategy was over, it was time to report to Shadow and Price to inform them of the plan. With my crew and me, the mission is bound to run smoothly and efficiently with little error. Still, I can not shake the sinking feeling in my head that something is going to happen. Hopefully, nothing will catch us off guard during the convoy raid. I just couldn't bare the thought of losing a single person again, especially my crew. If I lost them, it would be like losing my brothers again, and I cannot let that happen to them or the rest of the Renegades. I swear I will try to keep everyone alive if the situation called for it.
Name: Ryusuke Kenta
Codename: Devil
Division: Alpha Team/ Wrecking Crew
Name: Timothy Roberts
Code: King of shenanigans/KOS
Division: Demolitions/ Wrecking Crew
Name: Jacob Matthews
Codename: Psycho
Division: Alpha Team/ Wrecking Crew
Three Years Ago.
After my trials with the Renegades was over, Shadow proposed a spot in his squad due to my exceptional skill traits. I took up the offer, and he recommended a position in a small group of specialist that operate strictly with each other. I considered the options of this squad, and I asked him what they primarily do in the field. To my surprise, they operate with other squads, and they do various types of missions ranging from stealth to demolitions. The squad apparently only had three members and have been on countless missions without suffering a single casualty. So, I took up the offer and was told they were training in the woods for today if I want to introduce myself to them. I left Shadow's office to find the infamous trio that was training.
I entered the woods to locate the trio so I can introduce myself to them. You will think it would be easy to find them in the woods, that will be where you are wrong. It was an early morning, and a thick fog covered the forest making it impossible to find anyone. They could be watching me right now if I knew. Just that I have this feeling of being watched and I don't want to turn around to find the business end of a gun pointed at my face. That was until I heard a twig snap behind me, I snapped my head to look at the source of the sound. That was until I felt a knife placed firmly across my neck. They made one hell of a first impression to me.
" Don't move. " a male voice told me, and I complied with his demands.
" Whoa, buddy I'm friendly. I promise. " I said to him, and I felt the knife ease off my throat.
" What is your business here?" he asked calmly, and I turned around, and I was greeted by a 6-foot tall man who is wearing a short leather duster and a black t-shirt with a lightweight body armor, along with dark blue jeans. He had a .357 Winchester lever action rifle with a suppressed M1911. His Steel blue eyes look like he didn't have a care in the world at all and they were staring at me.
" I'm Falcon, and Shadow sent me, because he offered me a position in your squad. " I answered his question while he remained stoic.
" We don't need another man on our squad, that is final. " he said with no emotion.
" Oh come on Devil, we could use another member on our team besides, he looks cool. " a voice came from the forest.
" KOS does have a point you know. " a second voice spoke.
Two figures came out of the wood to introduce themselves to me. One was only 5,9 and was wearing a long sleeve t-shirt with a tactical vest packed with grenades and magazines. He had an M4 carbine suppressed, and an M79 grenade launcher slung over him. He was a tanned young man with short messy brown hair. The other was 6,1 and wearing a green jacket with body armor. He had an M16 with an M9 and a tactical knife on his right leg. He was a Caucasian with brown trimmed hair with a small goatee.
" Hello, My codename is King of Shenanigans or KOS for short. Are you our new team member? " KOS said with excitement.
" Yeah, Shadow told me you might need a new member. " I said to them.
" Well it is a pleasure to meet you I'm Psycho. " he said while offering his hand to me.
" Well, it is a pleasure to meet you. If I may ask, why do you call yourself Psycho." I asked while shaking his hand.
" You will find out in due time. Just stay away from my bad side, " he told me.
" Noted. So, am I in or what. " I said and looked at the guy wearing the leather duster.
" Come on, Devil he shows potential, and it can help on some of the operations. Give him a chance, and besides, I've seen the guy fight with Predator and can hold out quite well. " Psycho said to Devil.
" Okay fine, he can stay, but that doesn't mean I have to like him. " Devil said with the expression of discomfort.
" Thank you, Devil; I am glad to serve along with you all. " I said extending my hand.
" Whatever, just don't die. " he said while he walked away.
" Don't worry he will warm up to you eventually! " KOS said, and he puts his arm around my shoulder. " Welcome to the Wrecking Crew. "he concluded
" KOS is right you know, he will warm up to you soon, just give it time. " he said.
" Thank you; it is going to be a pleasure to get to know you all. " I said.
The Present.
From that moment on, I was part of their little group, and it was great. It took about a month for Devil to warm up to me and to become great friend and ally. He was also a great training partner and sparring partner compared to KOS and Psycho. We became inseparable and almost did all of our training exercises against each other to help improve our skills as a team. I am still thankful for them accepting me into their squad to fight in. That was three years ago and going strong together. After I had been done configuring the strategy for the mission, it was time to head to Shadow, Price, and Predator so I can present the plan to them.
The main headquarters was an impressive piece of infrastructure in Homebase. It was a large tent that held every gadget, weapon, and ammunition in the base in general. So, I went inside in search of Shadow, Price, and Predator to give them the game plan for the upcoming mission. As I entered the elevated platform, I could make out Price's voice from around the corner. I kept walking until Shadow and Queen greeted me and made my way towards them. Then the door slammed open with Price fuming at Nails for something.
" So, you mad at me then? "Nails said with a touch of sadness which was unusual.
" No, I'm not mad you, let's talk about this after I'm done with this. I love you and never forget that. " Price said as he pecked her cheek and she walked off.
" How did it go? " Shadow asked
" Man, your sister is a handful. How do you deal with her? " Price said as he rubbed his temples.
" Just love her, and you will be okay. " Queen said with a smirk, and she noticed me holding the mission dossier. " Well, I will see you boys later. Have fun with the meeting. " she said as she kissed Shadow before she left.
Name: Marie Kanker
Codename: Queen of Hearts/Queen
Division: Delta Squad/Mechanic
" Well then, shall we get started. " I asked them, and began heading down to the meeting area. " So, Price what was that all about. " I said.
" Don't worry about it, me and her are going to talk about this later. " he said apparently pissed about the ordeal.
" All right then. So, where is Predator anyway, is he helping us with the upcoming mission? " I said asking the whereabouts of our comrade.
" He should still be in the meeting area, waiting for us to discuss the plan. " Shadow said answering my question.
" All right then. " I said. We kept walking until we hit a wooden door. Shadow opened it to reveal the meeting room for the Renegades. Sitting in the far left corner was Predator asleep for waiting on us. By the looks of it, he was drooling on his military jacket. I could see Price sneaking up with a grin on his face while Shadow was chuckling at the devious act that was about to happen. Price got close to Predator's ear, and he started to inhale for his mighty shout.
" WAKE UP YOU LUMMOX! " he shouted into his ear that caused Predator to jump and scream.
" JESUS CHRIST PRICE, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU! " he shouted back at the little man.
Name: Edward Shaw
Codename: Predator
Division: Demolitions/ Delta Squad
" Just to wake you up, so we discuss the strategy for the mission lumpy. " He stated as he pointed toward Shadow and me.
" Oh, hey guys sorry about that. So, does Falcon have a plan for his crew? " he said as we took our seat to discuss the plan.
" Yes, in fact, we did discuss the plan with my team. " I said as I pulled out the map. " Since the convoy will travel along this highway, we can set up a road block twenty-five miles away from their destination. We thought the best course of action would be to have my crew split up to take the convoy head on. " I concluded thus far.
" Which members will be helping who, if I may ask. " Price asked
" KOS will be assisting Predator, by destroying the enemy armor. Devil will be with your squad Price, and Psycho will be with Alpha. " I answered his question.
" What kind of escorts are me and KOS dealing with? " Predator asked me
" Light armor at the very least, just two or three Humvees. " I answered him.
" Well Falcon, I must say you have this plan thought out. By splitting your squad, you will increase the efficiency of the attack. " Shadow told me
" Well, I like it so far. " Price said
" Me too! I can finally blow those fuckers sky high! " Predator added by slamming his fist onto the table itself.
" Well, we all agree to this plan say I. " Shadow said.
" I. " the three said in unison.
" Then it is settled, in forty-eight hours we will commence the attack on the convoy. In the meantime train and spend time with the people you care about because this might be someone's last mission and I recommend that we spend it wisely. " Shadow said in a somber tune.
" Yeah we know, and we keep fighting on for them. " I said trying to lift some spirits.
" Well enjoy your time now, and that goes towards every single one you. " Shadow said before leaving.
" Thank you, and spend your time with Queen. " I stated with a smirk.
Shadow turned around with a smile on his face. " I intend too. "
We left the meeting area to spend our time training or to spend it with our friends or family. Shadow is a good man to hang with for that reason alone. He wants us to spend time with the people we care about because we could meet our inevitable demise at any time. Even though we are a militia fighting against a heavily armed government superpower, but we are human, and we have emotions and people we care about to help us to make life livable. We fight for ourselves or our families, and we continue to fight until this day, and it will not be ending soon. I pray to God we will make out alive with my brothers and sisters.
I looked at my watch to get the time, and to my surprise, it was only a quarter till three. So, with the spare time I had, I decided to train with the crew. If I'm correct, the group should be in the woods right now training or just fucking around. So, I made my way down towards our training area to see the three sparring with KOS and Psycho sparring against Devil. I remained hidden beside a tree to observe the fight from a distance, and by the looks of it Devil is holding his own pretty well and doesn't show any sign of stopping soon. I continued to watch for thirteen minutes and decided to step in to make my presence known. I made my way towards them and KOS instantly greeted me with a punch. I saw the punch coming from a mile away and decided to take him down by taking his fist and bringing his arm behind his back and knocked him to the ground.
" Okay, you win. Now please let me go! " KOS pleaded with me to let him go.
" Give one reason why should I let you go. " I said
" I will send my little sister to torment you. " KOS said, and I instantly remembered the last time he sent her torment me.
" Fine you, win. Just don't send her to torment me, she can be a handful. " I said
" Come on; she likes you, and it would be cute to see you two become a couple. " KOS expressed in an innocent tone.
" It is pretty obvious by the way she interacts with you. " Psycho added in.
" Just ask her out already. " Devil said bluntly.
" Don't get me wrong she is cute, and I would date her. The problem is I'm a fighter, and I don't to hurt her if I die in combat. " I started, and KOS went up with his hand on my shoulder.
" Listen, Rick, I understand your concern, but you will hurt her more if you do not tell her if the time comes. Every time before we go on a mission, she tells me to stay safe and make sure Falcon does not die out there. She cares for all of us, but she cares more about you more than any of us. What I'm trying is talk to her before the mission and tell her that you will be safe. Just please do it for me. " KOS expressed concern. You knew KOS was serious if he says your name other than your codename.
" Alright, I will talk to her before the mission. " I said
" Just make her happy, she is all I have left, and I can't stand to see her depressed. " KOS said as he looked at me with concern eyes.
" I will Tim, thanks. " I said in sincerity
" Not a problem man. " KOS said with a smile.
" Well that is taken care of, let just train and hang out for the rest of the day. " Psycho said
" Now that is an idea I can get behind. " Devil said with a small smile his face.
" Alright, how about Devil and me face off next round. " I suggested, and Devil just gave me a smirk.
" Let's face off shall we Falcon. " Devil said, and he was ready to face off.
" This is going to be entertaining to watch. " Psycho said
" Who do you think is going to win? " KOS asked
" No clue. " he added.
Two hours later.
After the training was over, we decided to rest our bodies and minds just by relaxing. I went to get my guitar from my tent and brought it back to the woods. The sight my crew resting something unusual itself, we usually trained till the day ended. It was a rare sight to see. Devil was in the shade with his hat over his head. Psycho was drawing the serene landscape in front of him and capturing every last detail. Lastly, KOS was spread out across the grass and watching the clouds roll by with the breeze. I took a seat by the oak tree and took the view in front of me. Even in war nature will remain beautiful and everlasting. I placed the guitar on my lap and started to play Canon in D.
We remained like that until the sun nearly completed its trip through the sky. I decided to wake up Devil and tell him it was time to head back to Homebase. We all gathered our things and walked back in comfortable silence. By the time we made it back, it was already dusk, and the fireflies were already dancing across the base. We all decide to head to the mess hall for our evening supper. I went up to grab a tray, and the crew followed me to the line. Then I was greeted by our cook Star.
Name: May Kanker Codename: Star Division: Cook
She saw us and decided to speak up. " Hey guys, I haven't seen you all day. " Star said.
" Hey Star, we've been training for most of the day. " Devil said
" Well, that is good. By the way, I heard you guys an upcoming mission in two days. If I'm correct, it is a convoy full of food, ammo, and medical supplies, right? " Star stated
" Yeah, and hopefully we will be alright. One question, though, who told you about this mission? " Psycho said
" My boyfriend told me. " she expressed in a happy tone.
" Well, that will explain a lot. Well, I will have some chicken with beans and mashed potatoes, please. " I asked.
" Sure thing, coming right up. " Star said as she handed my food.
" Thank you, have a good night Star. " I said as I waved to her.
I made my way towards our regular table to enjoy the food. I sat down and started to consume the food that was before me. Good thing Star can cook better than the UWPF that is for sure. The chicken was moist and tender; the mashed potatoes were fresh and smooth. Lastly, the beans were flavorful. Each bite was delicious and worth savoring. As I kept eating the meal I was joined by Shadow, Price, Predator, Corpsman, Daredevil, Rose, Tiny Tim, Shepard, Plank, Queen, Nails, and my crew decided to keep me company while I feed. They took a seat, and they started conversing with one another. I decided to tap the glass with my fork to get their attention.
I raised my glass and began to speak. " Guy, I would like to make a toast to our friend Pain. He was a good friend and warrior to the Renegades. He will be forever missed, and we will fight on for him and the Renegades. " I finished and started to raise their glasses. " For Max. "
" For Max. " all of us said in unison.
I sat back down to enjoy my meal and the company of my brother and sisters. I looked up, and I could see Nest staring at me with teary eyes. Clearly, she appreciated the toast to her now deceased boyfriend that I gave. I gave her a smile and a nod, and she went back to her meal. After I had finished the meal, I had decided to head back to my tent for the rest of the night. The cool evening breeze embraced me with a sudden chill going down my back. I just took my time with the walk so I can enjoy this calm night with the moon casting its beautiful rays.
I reached my tent and took off my gear for the evening. I went over to the drawer containing my whiskey and took it. The familiar taste and burn whiskey will always be horrible, but it keeps me numb inside. I just sat there with a bottle of self-destruction in my hand and kept drinking it until I was satisfied. The bottle was placed back into its drawer, and I just laid there on my bed staring at the ceiling of my tent. It has been one hell of a day for the Renegades and myself. Then I heard someone at the entrance of my tent, and I decided to speak up.
" Who is out there, come in or leave now. " I offered, and a 5,7 tanned girl came in. I instantly recognized the short black hair and blue eyes that came through the entrance.
Name: Veronica Roberts
Codename: Cardinal
Divison: Medic
" Hey Falcon, how are you feeling? " she said in a worried tone.
" I'm fine Cardinal, why do ask? " I said
" Well I just wanted some excuse to talk to you, and I thought I would check on you. " she said with a smirk.
" Well, since you are here, take a seat. " I offered as I sat up and gestured for her to sit next to me. She sat close to me and began to say something.
" Listen, Falcon; I heard from the others that you would be going mission soon. I just want to say something to you privately. All I want to say is that I want you to be careful okay, truthfully I don't want to lose you or anyone else. " She stated in a somber tune.
" Well, I can not decide my fate, and if I could, I wouldn't be here right now. " I expressed in a depressed tune.
" What do you mean by that? " she questioned.
" I would be with my family, and I would never be here. " I said to her.
" I'm sorry Rick, about your family. Is there any way that I can help with? " she asked.
" My friends are helping me day to day. Even you are helping me from going insane. " I said to her, and she started to hug me which caught me off guard. Truthfully I enjoy the warmth she gave off, and it always helps me relax when times are hard.
" We are always here for you Rick, especially me and don't you ever forget that. " she said while sounding concerned.
" Thank you, Veronica, I appreciate everything you do for me. " I said and decided to let go of her.
" Not a problem Rick, have a good night. " she said and kissed my cheek before she left.
" You too. " I said to her while I was contemplating of what just happened. Cardinal kissed me on the cheek, and it felt good. For some reason, I feel whole for the first time in three years. I just laid there and felt better than ever, and for once I could sleep in peace without any trouble. Now I have a promise to keep, and I must fulfill it for not only me but for her as well. I felt my eyes getting heavier, and my body felt like it was on a cloud and sending me to the realm of sleep. Then I just fell asleep with a smile on my face.
Two days later.
The time is 0430 hrs in the morning of the raid on the convoy. I was packing the last of my gear and checking it before the battle. Instead of using my M1 Garand for this mission I will be using my M4 Carbine for the operation. Even though it has a smaller cartridge, it will get the job done. After one final check of the firing mechanism, I put the sling on my shoulder and began to head out to the transport vehicle and waited for the squads and for my crew to come. The sky had overcast clouds and blue hues with streaks of red and yellow appearing over the horizon.
Truthfully I'm ready to get this mission over with so I can rest for the day, and I'm still waiting for them. So, I just placed gear near the truck and slept on the side of the vehicle. I shut my eyes and just sat there in peace while I waited for them to come. The cool breeze brushed across my face and made me feel comfortable. This weather was decent for now until it turns for the worse. Hopefully, everything will be alright, and none of us will die in the upcoming firefight. All I want is peace, not war.
I rested for a minute until I heard footsteps approach my position and jolted awake. It was Cardinal coming to see me, and by the looks of it, she had a little parcel in her hand. I looked at her with a puzzled expression on my face wondering why she will be giving me a gift? As she approaches, I rose from my position and looked at her with a smile. It was kind of weird to see her up at this ungodly hour because she is usually asleep until three hours from now. She came up to me and gave me the parcel which was a simple box with a ribbon on it.
" Open it. " she said eagerly.
I opened the box, and inside was a tag with an inscription on it and decided to read it. " I will always be there for. " it read.
" Do you like it? " she asked.
" I love it; I will carry it into battle for you. " I said to her and proceeded to put it on.
" Just try to stay alive for us okay. " she told me, and she gave me a hug.
" I will try. " I said to her and saw the squads approaching.
" Everyone ready for the mission? " I asked and let Cardinal go.
" As ready we can be. " KOS said
" Ready to take the convoy head on. " Psycho added in.
" Well everyone get on the truck and lets head out. " Shadow ordered.
" Yes sir! " everyone sounded off and proceeded to board the vehicle. Price and Predator got into the driver compartment, and the squads hopped in back along with my crew and with Shadow. The vehicle's engine came to life with a thunderous roar and let off a plume of black smoke and started to take off. I looked off to Cardinal and saw her waving at me, and I just waved her goodbye. It was time for the mission to begin and we headed down the road. Jim Morrison once said that we are the riders of the storm and I couldn't agree more.
( Riders of the Storm by the Doors)
Riders on the storm Riders on the storm Into this house we're born Into this world we're thrown Like a dog without a bone An actor out on loan Riders on the storm
There's a killer on the road His brain is squirmin' like a toad Take a long holiday Let your children play If you give this man a ride Sweet family will die Killer on the road, yeah
Girl, you gotta love your man Girl, you gotta love your man Take him by the hand Make him understand The world on you depends Our life will never end Gotta love your man, yeah
Riders on the storm Riders on the storm Into this house we're born Into this world we're thrown Like a dog without a bone An actor out on loan.
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm Riders on the storm Riders on the storm Riders on the storm Riders on the storm
AN: Enjoy this chapter, and please give me some advice. Fav and Review. Riders of the storm belong to the Doors. Also, I would like to thank Hellsycthe for the OC's
