Armored Core Dawn on the Horizon.
By Textor Historia
Authors Legal Statement: I do not own the right of the Armored Core franchise. The Armored Core franchise belongs to From Software. I in no way am monetizing this work of fiction, nor will I attempt to do so. Please support the official releases in any manner, thank you.
Warning: This story contains mature themes not suitable for kids, screeching moralist, or those who can't handle harsh language. This Story contains the acts and themes of war, politics, graphic death, racial language & prejudice, mass death of various causes, rape, murder, sexual content, discrimination based on arbitrary characteristics, and adult language. If you cannot handle these, do not read the parts, or the story at all.
I WILL ALSO BE USING METRIC, SO MY FELLOW IMPERIAL USERS CAN BE WARRY OF NEEDING TO USE A CALCULATOR FOR TEMP, SPEED, WEIGHT, AND MEASSUREMENT.
"Hello."- Speech
"Hello"- Thoughts
[Date/Time/Location/ECT]
*SOUND*
(Authors Note in story)
Chapter 3: Guns, Money, and Cigars.
[4670, May 6th, 300 hours, Crescent Bay, Crescent Bay West District Hospital]
Disorder was the current state of mind for a young man currently sitting in a hospital nature chapel. The smell of spring filled the room as its plants were blooming new life. The artificial conditions of the room kept it at a nice 25c (77f), with the smell of artificial rain fresh in the air. A hollow look encapsulated the entirety of his present state of being. His eyes looked at the ground, as if trying to look threw them in some manner. The red from the tears that had previously been falling was still present. Puffy and tired looking as well. His arms resting on his legs. If one was not to take into account the sight of bodily breathing motions, one would think his stillness was ostensibly a body after death.
While his body remained in a status of stillness, his mind was one of turmoil. The past 24-hours played threw his mind in perfect recount. Every detail sharp in his mind as he looked for anything. Some moment of failure, one which if he had not faulted in, his grandfather's death would not be a reality. From waking up to go on his hunt, to the rate he had ran to the doors. Every moment was one for his own analysist. However, his emotions and questions of the nature of the attack plagued his mind in equal attention. The trichotomy alone made him quiet to the point of unnoticeability from those who passed by. By all accounts, he was isolated in both mind, and from those around him.
"If I had just ignored Clyde, I would have avoided so much waste of time. If I hadn't stopped to examine that artillery casing, I would have been back sooner. Why, WHY DID I LET MYSELF GET DISTRACTED?! I should have stopped and focused on returning home!" Nonus thought as he criticized his actions of the previous day. What made this process even worse was the memory of his grandfather. The smile he had as he complimented him on the deer he had caught for them. The look of fear as he told him to run away from the men that attacked and burned down there home. The pride he saw in his grandfather's eyes when he gave the answer to the question the man had proposed so many years ago. The pain and sadness he saw as the life of his eyes left them. In each of them however, there was one emotion that he saw, and it was the one that mand Nonus's heart ache, love.
Despite all the suffering, despite all the broken bones, despite the blood loss, his grandfather always looked at him with love in his eyes. Now such a look was no more, vanquished from this plane of existence by a single event. A single event that had no present reason for such an action. Because of such an event, and what it had taken from him, his retaliation from his view was one of impunity. Callous as such a thought was to most, Nonus cared little. He had lost his lifelong home, the man who raised him, and was targeted for the same fate. He would hear no shaming of his retaliation to such a series of events.
Nonus stood up as he felt his sore & stiff muscles begrudgingly follow his orders. The lactic acid in his body from his "exercise" of events left them even more sore. A constant feeling & need to will the body to move had been prevalent for some time now. Stretching his arms for some manner of relieving their stiff state, the young man began to walk. Trying to relieve his legs of the same gnawing feeling. The nature chapel was one of peace that most, if not all who experienced loss within the hospital's grounds, sooner or later found themselves.
It was a large room that was made for the purposes of quiet reflection, and some place of mental balance. The sounds incorporated were of soft chirpings of birds not found for hundreds of miles, a soft waterfall that was still audible through out the entirety of the room, and controlled temperature. In every manner was this room built for those in a state of distress to seek clarity. The young man could appreciate such attention to detail, being one who had lived out in the Canyon forest all his life. Water was an excellent sound of relaxation when it was in enough motion. That had probably been why his grandfather had lived there. Nature's own sound was a remedy for so many ills that plagued people from day to day.
"How did they get the smell right though?" Nonus thought as he approached the exit doors. They were a large set of doors, about 4 meters in height, and made of metal with reinforced glass windows. Looking up at the top of the large doors, the sight of the sensor going from a soft red, to a soft green could be seen. A low hiss was produced as the doors slid open. The rubber bottoms of the doors were made to cause as little sound as possible. As well as the gears of the door, both to reduce the disruption they caused to the tranquil chamber.
As Nonus walked out, the artificial smell of spring disappeared, as it was replaced by the smell of a sterilized hospital hallway. The hard floors having recently been treated with some form of a chemical mixture. A "WET FLOOR!" sign a few meters to his right was still standing. The few spots of wet floor able to be seen under the hospital's soft lights. Wanting to avoid any chance of tripping, and causing additional soreness to his being, Nonus began to walk leftward. His steps silent as he walked aimlessly threw the floor.
Since it was so early in the day, the hallways were relatively quiet. The janitors and late crew being the few to make any sound. The vast baulk of patients themselves being fast asleep. Recovering, hanging onto life, and for some like his grandfather, passing away in their own fashion. Hopefully it was of a peaceful and painless nature, and not of the other. That was the hope he could give to those who found themselves in his position, and only a silent, and mental condolence.
He soon arrived at the very room he and his grandfather had last seen each other. Already had the bed been cleaned to the point of exemplary standards. The teal sheets folded nice and tightly, and the standard two pillows laid ready for the next head of a patients. The additional machines that provided his grandfather with extra time had already been taken. Most likely already cleaned and put into storage. Most likely not being used until needed, or further examination. The memory of his grandfather was still fresh and was most likely forever carved into his psyche. He sighed as he held his calm composure, trying to sort out his mind more.
Behind him came the soft, but audible footsteps of two people. A leathery stretching sound present with every step they took. Enclosing the distance between them and Nonus. Using the window that was presently drawn open due to vacancy, the young man saw the rough reflections of two men in uniform. Both were men of similar build, with belts and some device on there shoulders. Calmly turning around, Nonus looked to see who approached him.
"Heh, never could get the drop on your Grandfather, guess you inherited his perception." A voice spoke with a modicum of amusement. In front of Nonus stood two men with matching uniforms, but with slight differences here and there. The uniforms themselves consisted of a light blue breathable short sleeved-shirt, with black pants that looked ostensibly like dress pants, and black combat boots. Both had on ballistic vests that matched the color of their shirts. A silver name tag with black imprints of their names were pinned on the left side. A small side pocket for a notepad and pen holster on the right. On each of their shoulders was Crescent Bay emblem, surrounded by the red triangle that was related to Apex Frontier. Apex Frontier being the company that owned everything from the Greenland territory, to the Alaskan territory, and down to the Chain Wall.
They were the local law enforcement employed by Apex Frontier, and the City Executives. What made Nonus ponder however, was the darker skinned man with the rank of Captain. Why was a captain here to see him?
"Your Alexander's grandson, Nonus, correct?" The captain asked. His gaze firm, but not off-putting.
"Yes Sir." Nonus said with respect and said nothing else as to maintain a level of respect. Best to appeal to there authority until you know of their intentions. Otherwise risk a situation which would only cause him further troubles. Smiling at the answer, the captain tilted his gaze at the lower ranked officer next to him, and then back to Nonus. The other officer, a man with green eyes, brought up items that he carried. Nonus looked to see it was a large brown paper bag, with the same logo they had stitched on there shoulder imprinted on the bag.
"We headed to your cabin. It didn't take us long to figure what had happened when we saw your…. handywork. Think you went a little over bored there?" The Captain asked as Nonus took the item.
"Gramps taught me when your fighting for your life, its best to be judged by eight then carried by six." Nonus said as he investigated the contents of the bag. Inside was his cloths, which had been recently cleaned of their stains. His weapons as well being present in the bag, the tomahawk being cleaned.
"Should ask them where they buy their polish from." Nonus thought as he admired the attention to detail.
"Alexander raised you to be a mini-him, huh? Cause that's the exact answer he gave me when he put four holes into one of my subordinates years ago. With that very gun no less." The captain said as Nonus looked up with a face of slight surprise.
"My grandfather shot a cop?" Nonus asked in somewhat disbelief.
"Oh your granddaddy didn't just waste one of my subordinates, he made sure to get a confession out of the son-of-a-bitch before he died. Let's just say the man he shot was someone who couldn't keep it in his pants. Your gramps caught him in the act on night, and put two in the legs, one in the right arm, and one in the head. It was all in self-defense of course." The captain said as he put emphasis of the term "self-defense". Moving his eyebrows up and down twice when mentioning the term. Nonus just shook his head in agreement.
"Because of the obvious nature of what happened, you've already been cleared. However, let's get to the point, how long do we have boy?" The green-eyed officer spoke in a direct manner. Nonus looked at hm for a moment with some confusion.
"Don't lapse in memory now. We saw the bodies; the men were both part of Plain Marauders. Meaning we have an operation happening in our canyon. I need to know how much time we have left to prepare." The captain said sternly, no trace of his previously somewhat jovial manner of speech. Now it was one of authority, and it was staring him down.
"A week, that's what Gramps said. However, one of the soldiers I…. "interrogated" said nine days. They didn't clarify when they would attack, so I guess we should act like we have 8 days." Nonus said as he looked at the captain in the eyes. The captain sighed as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. It wasn't a matter of annoyance, but rather one of clear worry. Considering the situation, Nonus could understand why. It wasn't everyday that an army was only a few days away from invading you.
"Alright then, that's all the questions we had for you. Your garage is still standing, so I suggest you head there. I know it might be painful, but its probably best to head there. I even have an escort to give you a ride home." The captain said as he placed an arm on Nonus's right shoulder.
"Now keep this information to yourself, we'll handle the preparations here. Last thing we need is everyone getting into a panic and start rioting. Otherwise well end up doing most of the private armies work for them." The captain said as he took his hand off and walked away with his subordinate. Nonus looked waited until the duo was out of sight, and hastily ran to an available patient room with a bathroom. Body was less sore now, and he was ready to move on with the task his grandfather had bestowed upon him; watch the holovid.
Finding a secure patient bathroom, he began to examine the contents of the bag. His blue carpenters were in good condition, as well as the dark green shirt he had. His black socks and boots in the same clean condition as the other articles of clothing. Swapping his current attire for those he found most preferable, he found himself somewhat happier in the attire. Lastly, were the two, and most important items that he had come to be fond of. The .475 Widley, and the thermal tomahawk. Reaching into the bag for its final contents, he grabbed the pistol first.
His gaze became one of questioning as he felt the noticeable weight difference in the gun. Because of its unique ammunition, the gun was built to withstand extreme fire power. For such remarkable durability, a heavy weight and recoil were the natural trade off. Analyzing the weapon took only a minute to locate the reason for such drastic difference in weight.
"Half the guns parts have been either removed or altered to uselessness" Nonus thought. Suspecting further sabotage of his property, be began the process of inspecting the tomahawk. Turning it over, and cautiously eye every part of it, a plethora of issues were identified. The most blatant of issues that was noticeable was the dulled blade. It would make for a better hammer, then a bladed tool. The condition of the thermal wiring which made the weapon even more leather had been made inoperable. Wires protruding in every direction once exposed from the handles hollow casing structure. Agitated by such sabotage to his precious equipment, Nonus trust in the local law enforcement became one of cautionary distrust.
"Id best not take up that free ride. There may be hidden "fees" if I do so." Nonus thought as he began to plan a manner of escape. First, he would need to establish where the vehicles, and hence where the drivers were most likely to be located. To do this, Nonus simply made his way up three levels, while quietly avoiding anyone who was still working. For the next half an hour, Nonus found what he was looking for with relative ease. His reconnaissance led him to find there were four squads waiting for him. Each having an officer in them, and possibly coworkers inside the hospital right now.
"How fortunate to have such a large police department." Nonus though rolling his eyes. Most likely there were officers to greet him or encounter him and then lead him out. Thus, not causing any issue worth anyone's attention, and placing the officers in the position of just doing their jobs.
"Im surrounded, don't have any way to take them all on, and I need a ride," Nonus thought as he hid himself. Likelihood of the officers patrolling threw the building was an obvious strategy. "If I'm going get out of here, I'll have to knock out one of the officers. Maybe I could get some anesthesia from the hospital's pharmacy. There should be a drug catalog that I could use to browse through the inventory. To get inside of the place itself, best chance is using the tomahawk to-"
Nonus then looked at his currently blunted weapon, and face palmed himself.
"Or I could just use the tomahawk and conk one of them on the head and grab their gear. Better then devising some overly complex plan with ten additional steps. K.I.S.S Nonus, keep it simple stupid." Nonus thought with self-criticism as he began to look for a stairway door. The stairway being the best way one would work his way up without notice, and the most audible for Nonus to hear. Quietly entering the stairway, he slowly closed the door, while still applying pressure to its push able handle. When closing the door, he gradually, but very cautiously took the pressure off. This all being done to create as little to no noticeable audible sound worth attention. Positioning himself to see down the center slit that gave him limited, but a precious advantage. Using the vantage point, a figure is similar garb as the two officers he met was making there way up. From what little he could gaze at, it was only one person that was ascending the staircase. His current position being roughly 5-7 flights bellow Nonus.
"Well, better position myself." Nonus thought as he pulled out his blunted tomahawk. Taking the position where he was directly behind the ascending persons viewpoint, as well as to the far side of the ascending staircases to his current position, Nonus sat patiently. Breathing being controlled and his body stiff as to avoid unnecessary sound. Footsteps and the jingling of various equipment on a belt increasingly became more audible. Thus, signaling further encroachment to the blonde's vantage point. Finally, only a floor beneath him, Nonus saw the man's form as he ascended the stair case.
Immediately Nonus launched himself, holding back any obstreperous yelling or sounds. The officers head turned slightly, as he reached for his gun. Nonus's body slammed into his at an angle, as the officer felt his ribcage hit the stairs, resulting in two broken ribs. Before he could even reach out for his radio, Nonus wacked the back of the man's head with the broadside of the weapon, as to not kill the man, but incapacitate him. Naturally the man put his hands up to absorb the attacks, but Nonus wrestled with one hand. His other hand increasingly bringing down more powerful blows to bear on the man.
"FOR FUCK SAKE'S JUST BLACKOUT!" Nonus thought wanting to make this quick. The man's hands left hand now clearly broken. Nonus quickly swapped the side to the narrower edge, where it had also hand once been sharpened. The younger man brought it down on the man's hand, as a sickening crack was created. Nonus immediately put his hand over the man's mouth as to avoid louder screaming. The officer bit down on Nonus's hand and punched him square in the jaw. The made Nonus lose balance as he was pushed to the side. The officer lifted his body upward, and kicked Nonus a few times in the gut, causing the blonde to curl up in defense. Seeing this, the officer reached for his gun, but Nonus shot his body back up and at the man's center of mass. While the ballistic vest helped to avoid any damage, gravity acted in accordance with its laws, as the man was sent over the hand rail, head first.
*SHCRACK!* Was the gut-wrenching sickly crack that rag threw Nonus ears as he looked over the railing and onto the stairwell beneath him. Hazel eyes widened as he saw the unnatural position of the officer's neck. With a curse spoken under breath, Nonus knew that the man was dead. Nonus walked down the stair case, still recovering his breath from being kicked out of him. He leaned down and put both his index and middle fingers to the man's neck. The presence of a pulse was absent as the blonde had feared.
Nonus shook his head with regret as he rummaged threw the mans gear. Knowing his tomahawk would most likely have blood on it, Nonus looked into the man's pockets for a knife. Find it with ease as most officers carried one, Nonus cut the sleeves off the man's shirt. Running the cloth over his face, hands, and tomahawk, the blonde avoided any obvious signs to lead on to know he had killed someone. He grabbed the 9mm, the two magazines the man carried, kept the pocket knife the officer had, and the small bottle of pepper spray. Tucking the pocket knife in his right pocket, he then tucked the gun in his pants on his right side. The pepper spray being put with the hand cuffs.
"I better leave now." Nonus thought as he headed towards the main exit. It was only a few sets of stairs down, but to Nonus it felt like one as the adrenaline had been released. Holding back his body's movements as to appear normal, Nonus soon stood only a few meters from the door. He quickly gazed out outs its small window and saw the main doors straight ahead. A squad car outside presumably waiting for him. Nonus took in a breath, let out half, and waited a few moments to breath out the other half. Calming his body down, he walked out and towards the main doors.
His pace was steady but not fast as he reached out and pushed the doors open. Across the street, under a light post, an officer stood with a neutral look on his face. Nonus walked toward him, his heart beating a bit faster as trepidation came to his mind. The officer stood with the rank of Sergeant on his shoulders. His frame was slightly larger than others, had a very common militaristic looking face, but oldy enough he had a goatee.
"Are you the officer assigned to pick me up? Sorry I took so long; my day has been a bit…. stressful" Nonus said, already knowing what the answer would be to his question.
"Yes, and it's fine, just sit in the back, and I'll take you home quickly." The officer said.
"Thanks, suppose I should give you the weapons your chief gave back to me, here," Nonus said as he slowly reached and gave the officer his .475 pistol & the tomahawk. "Don't want to make you feel nervous in your own squad!"
The officer nodded as he grabbed the weapon and set both on the passenger seat. He then opened the read door to show the hard, single piece plastic seat that maid up the back. A barrier had been built in consisting of a left and right side with protective glass, and a metal crossed barrier in the middle. Keeping the blonde physically separate from the man. Nonus sat down as the officer warned him not to hit his head, which Nonus found laughable. His head was probably ordered to be ventilated once they were out in the rural sticks. Careful as to not let the officer be aware of his hidden positions, Nonus acted as if his body was still a bit stiff. As soon as he had positioned himself on the right seat, the officer almost immediately slammed the door closed.
"No need to hurry yourself there." Nonus thought as the officer entered his squad's driver seat. His larger frame causing motion with the rather large squad car. With a flick of a button, the audio of an old gasoline engine cam threw, signaling the electric engine was on. Most people for some reason, including Nonus himself, preferred that sound to the rather silent electric noise. It just came off much more powerful.
The squad itself was a large SUV style squad, with the standard bells and whistles one would see. It was a wheel-based vehicle which made sense, as the department most likely was avoiding the cost of large hovercraft costs. Only the large factory hubs had that kind of cash to spend. The officer radioed in on having gotten the blonde and was informed that his other officers would be there for a while. Apparently having to get reports from the staff on the blonde's case for record sake. With two flicks of switches above the central console, the lights and sirens cam on.
It was a good 10 minutes blazing past lights and such, until they were out of the city. Waiting until they were half way home; at the increasing speeds the officer was pulling, it would be soon; Nonus knew when to strike. They passed a few signs along the way which Nonus had imbedded in his memories from repeated travel between home and Crescent Bay.
"How fast is he going? At the current rate well be home in under 20 minutes." Nonus thought as positioned himself. If he was going to strike, it was best to do so now. Steadying his right hand to be on the gun, Nonus also slowly prepared the pepper spray.
"Man, you don't have to go this fast for me sir. If it isn't a bother to inquire, would you slow down a bit?" Nonus asked politely.
"Huh? Uh, yeah, sorry. Just a bit easier to drive without all that annoying traffic in the city. Out here, you can go as fast as you want, it's a pleasant change." The officer said as he reeled back the speed of the vehicle.
"Yeah, it sure is. Glad I'll be out here when Plain Marauders comes crashing in. How is the public taking it?" Nonus asked.
"The public is taking it pretty well." The officer said, and that was all Nonus needed for a signal.
"You missed a line their buddy, didn't the chief tell you that the public wouldn't be informed?" Nonus asked as the officer looked back at him with a bit of surprise in his eyes.
"Well, guess you know the situation then. Guess, there's no need to act the part." The officer said as the vehicle decelerated till he brought it to a halt. He parked it in gear, and drew his gun.
"Gotta ask, how did you find out?" The officer asked with curiosity as he turned at Nonus.
"You fucked with my weapons jackass, although that didn't stop me from stealing from some of yours." Nonus said as he raised his left arm and sprayed the pepper spray threw the openings within the middle section. The man quickly covered his eyes with his arm as scarlet spray was flung onto his arm, some of it hitting the top of his face.
"YOU LITTLE CUNT!" The man yelled as he felt the oily substance slide down his face. Pepper spray was designed to be slick, as the point of it as to get into the eyes. By being wet enough like oil, it was able to roll down the man's forehead. Thus, causing skin irritation where it was, and reaching the eyes. To say it was effective was an understatement as Nonus unleased the entire can upon the man. The oil accumulating so much as to pour down the face, and reach the eyes, nostrils, and mouth.
Nonus tossed the now emptied can aside as he slid across the seat. The can making a small clank sound as it fell on the floorboard. He reached for the gun as the man began to fire his off where Nonus had been. His eyes too much in pain to be of use to aim.
"DUMBASS!" Nonus yelled with the new rigging in his ears as he fired his own gun five times. The first few bullets were blocked, with the last on making it threw the now destroyed glass. A haze of red coated the front window, as well as a cracking sound as a heavy thud was herd. Nonus sighed with ringing now in his ears as he moved his head. The officers now ventilated head rested on the frame between the door and window. Wasting no time, Nonus slid across to the opposite side, and fired until the glass broke on the opposite side window. Shattering from the impact of too many bullets, the pieces fell across the seat and floor board. Nonus kicked out any remaining glass as he crawled out threw the exposed window.
"Great, now my ears are ringing like a bitch, hope there isn't any permanent damage." Nonus thought as he plopped onto the ground. A few cuts present along his arms, and his shirt having a few cuts. Quickly getting back up and walking a few meters away, Nonus turned and emptied the remainder of his clip into the driver seat. Avoiding the head as to not have the entire window covered in blood, the door window soon caved in and shattered. Disposing of the now spent clip, the young man reloaded and kept the gun up. Best to be wary of any surprises, then to be overcome by them.
He opened the door as the officer's upper body fell to the road side. Nonus just pulled the body out and claimed the man pistol magazines. Might as well make his chances better off with more ammo at his disposal. Noticing the blood sprayed across the glass, Nonus pulled out his new knife and cut off a leg length of cloth from the officer's pants. Using it as an improvised towel, Nonus quickly wiped the blood as best he could. Then swatting the glass shards away with the towel folded, Nonus soon took the driver seat.
"Gramps, I hope you understand from wherever your soul is." Nonus thought in a moment of reflection. With thing as they were however, he had little time o reflect on the morals of his actions. He had to survive, and he had to make sure Crescent Bay was made aware of the impending attack. Otherwise, he could never call himself by his last name, better yet live with himself. He looked to the laptop that was on a built-in metal stand and browsed through the software applications.
After a good 15 minutes, he found what he was looking for. In front of him was the evidence he needed to clear his name. It was a series of emails with orders from someone to have him killed off. In place of a few words were certain metaphors that were easily switchable with other, more direct words. Suddenly a new message popped up, much to the blonde's annoyance.
"Is the chore done? We just found Arnold sleeping overtime, how is your end?" It read plainly.
"Better fake it." Nonus thought as he began to type.
"Yes, had a few problems doing it, even took a hit to the head! Had a couple surprises, but it's done." Nonus wrote trying to be as convincing as possible. He sent the message, and almost was reciprocated instantly.
"Need help? That stuff made Mike sleep real hard." The message read, mentioning the finding of the officer who Nonus had killed. Nonus quickly looked for the trunk button as he needed an idea for what they wanted to have done with his body. He quickly found it and headed out to survey the trunks contents. Careful not to trip over the dead body near him. Inside was a variety of tools that could be of major use in any situation. Especially the foldable shovel that was beside a large tarp big enough for a body. He rushed back to respond, looked at the clock which read 0530, and typed in his reply.
"No, I'm fine. Might take a while to do the rest, don't like the location I'm in. Going to go out a bit further to finish the chore. I'll be back at 0900 at the most." Nonus typed in as he awaited the quick response.
"Understood, take your time man. People likes chores done right, not fast and lazy. Well get Mike nice and proper. I'll delete the messages right now." The email read as Nonus eyes widen as the messages suddenly began to self-delete themselves, much to the blonde's mental detriment. Just when had the proof he needed to clear his name from public ire, it was ripped from his grasp. Just as so much had been in no less than 24 hours.
Nonus shifted the vehicle into drive as he took off at max speed. Buying himself some time was successful, now he just had to use it appropriately. Over 10 minutes passed until he was home, a sting of pain hit his heart as he drove passed the soldering remains. Four long wooden stakes holding up lines of police tape. The memory of his grandfather warning him came flooding to mind as he drove past the front porch. Shaking his head, he parked the vehicle and shut it off. Climbing out of the vehicle, his .475 and tomahawk both holstered, Nonus examined the garage. It was taped off, but besides that there was no sign of major tampering. Tearing off the tape, he entered the garage slowly. A welcomed momentary feeling of calm washed over him as the familiar smell came to his nose.
"This will probably be the last time I ever see this place." Nonus thought with a heavy look as he entered his grandfather's office. It was a well sized office, a few large filing cabinets, two chairs in front of a large desk littered with papers, cigar ends, and a few office supplies. To the side was a large hanging painting with a couch underneath it, and to the far left back was a large plant that needed watering. Using the information his grandfather had relayed to him, Nonus walked to the desks chair, and felt underneath it. He quickly found a large piece of tape and ripped it off from the chair's underneath. Bringing it to his face, Nonus found both the kept, and a tightly folded note. He took both and unfolded the note.
"Close and lock the door, then open all file cabinet drawers." Nonus read as he did as the letter instructed. The door was shut, and locked. Then every drawer on all three file cabinets were opened. A mechanical click was herd, as the sound of an electrical hydraulic press was herd. Nonus looked to his side as a look of shock came over his face.
The entire door had been covered by a large safe that spanned the rooms 6-meter width. It stood a good 3-meters with a keyhole every 1½ meters.
"Even in death you leave me agape, Gramps." Nonus thought as he opened the first section of the safe. Inside was a set of combat armor that looked like an older model of what the Plain Marauders had used, but with extra armor. On the side was a tan colored camo-shirt made of breathable fabrics, and a set of combat pants of the same color and similar, yet rougher material. There was even two sets of socks and two sets of underwear. Nonus quickly unlocked the next section and was greeted with the sight of weapon. A lot of them.
There was an 8mm automatic rifle, an automatic 12-gauge shotgun, an empty space where the .475 belonged, an empty space for the tomahawk, and a combat knife. Ammo boxes and magazines set neatly onto one another. Four cylindrical shaped grenades being tucked into the back of the section. That last one took Nonus a minute to process as he moved to the next locker. He opened to reveal an empty duffel bag, that was hanging at the top, a set of boxes with the word "PARTS" written on them with the associated weapon, some modifications for the armor, and a few credit chips in a large wallet. Nonus looked at the credit cards, counted them, and nearly felt his eyes leave their sockets.
"There's at LEAST 15k here!" Nonus said in shock as he moved on to the last door. Inside was a small photo album, a necklace, a key, papers, a few files, a pack of ten data chip, and the holovid. Nonus immediately grabbed the devise no bigger than a TV remote and set it on the desk. He activated the touch screen and saw that there was a recording from a year ago, on his own birthday. Nonus pressed the play button as the machine came to life. A holographic projection light was emitted as the form of Nonus's grandfather standing took form. Nonus immediately felt emotion at the well detailed projection of his grandfather.
"Nonus, not to sound cliche, but if you're watching this, then I've left this world." The hologram "spoke" as Nonus hung his head.
"Listen son, if you've found this, then you've found the safe. It's time your grandfather cleared up the record for you. Your Gramps wasn't born in Crescent Bay, I was born up in Upper Peninsula of the Michigan sector. When I was 16, I left home without a care, and enrolled in Apex Frontiers private army. For years I did things that I still can't forgive myself for, corporate sabotage, drug trade, resource trade and acquisition; acquisition meaning just killing whoever had what AF wanted, and even killed entire towns. Was rarely for defense, and it wasn't eve in the name of any values or ideas, it was just for a couple credits, a meal on the table, and booze to make me forget. For years I was a cold-blooded bastard, moving from field to field. Looking back on it now, I regret nearly everything. The only highlight was meeting your grandmother." Gramps spoke as his sober look gained a smile.
"Quite a woman that one. Very proud of her femininity, always looking her best, kind to people who needed a hand, while simultaneously being a jackass to every man that approached her for a date. Your grandpa sure had to bust his ass to get her to go out with me. Worth it in every way though, as after a year I had a ring on her finger. Although I was kind of pissed she forgot to mention she was a natural blonde, and not a redhead. Hell, of a surprise on the wedding day especially." His grandfather spoke as Nonus rolled his eyes with a smile at that part. His grandfather was always going on about "firecrackers" when women were brought up.
"Even with my job, our relationship was strong over the next few years. Over the years I was married to your grandmother, I began to want to settle down further. So, when your mother came about, I had last mission, one that would get your grandma, mother and me out to Crescent Bay, and into any district we wanted. What I didn't know, was the monsters we would find down there." Gramps spoke as the recording showed a pale looking man as Nonus was taken aback by the nervous expression his Grandfather displayed. He had never seen him nervous, let alone so consumed by an emotion to such a degree. It was in all manners, unnerving to the young Severus.
"The things I saw, the knowledge in that place, and worst of all, oh god when he actually talked to me! I couldn't stop shaking like a leaf in the wind. The worse part was when he said there was something far worse at the bottom of that ancient facility. Something he couldn't have, which seemed to piss him off. That thing Nonus, whatever monstrosity it is, it belongs to your." His Grandfather said with a hawkish look.
"It belongs to me?" Nonus said quietly to himself in disbelief. Why would some facility have something that pre-dated his birth even?
"I asked him why, and he said, "you do not meet the necessary conditions". As if I was some sort of defective tool or broken part in his eyes. After our little "chat" he said I could leave that place. The only one of an entire company, 149 men, ALL DEAD FROM THAT ONE PLACE!" Gramps said as Nonus saw the palpable fear in the mans projected eyes. What laid in this facility that would cause his grandfather such distress. It sounded like the devil itself had made a refuge from hell.
"Two years passed, grandmother left me after things got bad, and your mother gave birth to you, sadly at the cost of her own life, she was only 16. Same age as me when I left my home," Gramps's projection said with a distant and sad look.
"Mom was only 16? Wow, she wouldn't even be 40 if she was alive, damn…so young." Nonus thought, never really knowing much about his mother or anything about his father. Gramps had always wanted to avoid that topic, because "it caused too much heartache" as he would usually put it. Usually to the blonde's own disappointment.
"When you were born, he came back. I walked out, confronted the bastard with my 8mm, and demanded what he was doing on my land. What he said left me in a fit of rage I can never feel unless I see that bastard again." Gramps with a look of pure hatred with the snarl that plastered his face.
"Bastard looked at me straight in the eyes, wife left me, daughter just recently died, baby in the house crying, and he said "He is my offspring, I leave him in your hands. Do not fail in the upbringing of him, for he possesses all that you lacked. He shall go by the name Nonus". He then took off while I shot my entire clip at him! Not a damn thing even nippit that bastard. He was the most cold-blooded bastard I had ever met. To this day I wonder how the hell your even related to that-that THING!" Gramps's projection said with venom in his words. Nonus was utterly shocked as the revelation of wat kind of man his own father was. A man that not only left his own mother, but even told his grandfather to raise him.
"You son of a bitch." Nonus thought as he felt his fists ball. His knuckles turning white in sheet anger. His father, the very man that helped in his creation, went against so much of what made a man a man in the blonde's own eyes. It was a betrayal of values as close as the blood that ran threw his veins.
"The only thing your daddy ever gave you was that name, but I decided to give you it. Maybe it was out of the sense of tradition, being that my pa, and his pa named their own sons. The other reason being because I wanted you to make that name YOURS, not his, not whatever label and meaning he had in it for you, its YOURS to fulfill boy. Now, that leads me to my last segment of this little drama. Nonus, I don't care much what you do with your life, as long as you do it right, and do it with the lessons I gave you. That alone would make me happy. However, if our home, if Crescent Bay, the place I worked so hard to get our family too, I have only on thing to ask you. Please listen to this selfish old man's last request. Please Nonus, fight to protect it, and fight for yourself. Even if its only once, Crescent Bay deserves a fighting chance. After that, I want you to live your life, just don't make the same mistakes I did." Gramps said with respect in his voice toward his own grandson, something that made Nonus smile. His grandfathers trust in him being so height as to ask him such a thing.
"After this vid, there will be instructions on how to use and repair all the stuff in here. As well as some precious items I've kept safe. Some cash with a wallet I made for you, some data chips that have….my past, a necklace I gave your mother, and a photo album. Remember, always keep the photo albums safe. There're also some other recordings that will be available after this message is played. Most, if not all being much more jovial in tone then this one. Some good life lessons for ya!" Gramps's projection spoke happily as he had a chuckle at the mention of more jovial messages. The projection smiled as Nonus watched with all his attention upfront.
"Use it all and live your life son. You are now the head of the Severus house, and I know you will do great things if you set your mind and body towards whatever goal you seek. Go claim the world as yours with your own work. Ill be watching you with pride in my eyes, and hopefully with your mother and grandmother where ever they both are. Above all though, know that I love you Nonus, always have, and I always will." Gramps's projection said, tears evident in the recording, but words as true as they could ever be. The projection ended as the machine began moving to the next video. Nonus paused it and wiped his slightly watery eyes, some form of peace being brought from the recording.
"I will Gramps, now." Nonus said to himself as he looked at the armor and pressed the play button. He began to undress, as he reached for the militaristic clothing. The cloths adjusting to his body as he listened to his Grandfather explain the suit. The armor itself had microhydraulic, allowing for users who weren't augmented to carry 150 kilograms (330 pounds) of gear. An augmented soldier being able to carry a heavy total a little over 2x that. So Nonus would have no issue with carrying an optional rotation of firepower. The back of the suit having magnetized sections that made having the threat of an average person yanking your guns form you a mute concern. Nonus found himself struggling with the heavy equipment as the legs easily weighed 14 kilograms (30 pounds) for each leg.
"No wonder Gramps could still move so well nearing 60. Life time of this, and augmentation is a workout alone!" Nonus thought as heapplied the "space diaper" which was really just an all-encompassing crotch plate that easily weighted somewhere around 5½ kilograms (12 pounds). Avoiding tiring himself out, Nonus brought the chest piece, which was by far the heaviest, to the ground. Easley weighing at 25 kilograms (55 pounds).
"When you have the chest piece on, simply repeat after me, Severus-000117-AO, activate power systems." Gramps's recording spoke as Nonus heard a soft hum come one as he near instantly felt the weight of the armor decrease by a stark degree. He stood up as he made few simple movements. The machine responding a bit too fast, almost overwhelmingly over extending his limbs.
"I'm going to need to readjust this asap." Nonus thought as he tried to real his arms back down, but they came down like an anchor had been tied to them. The suit was clearly one for the more enhanced among Apex's forces.
"Then repeat the same when deactivating the system. Severus-000117-AO deactivate power systems." Gramps projection said.
"Oh fuck." Nonus thought as the armors de-powered weight returned. Nonus felt the full weight as he struggled against the heavy bearing of the armor.
"S-Severus-000117-AO, a-activate power systems!" Nonus said as he cautiously struggled to maintain his balance. The humming of the power system retuned as much to Nonus's welcome. He listened as his grandfather told him how to readjust the armor, which Nonus did while simultaneously listening to the recording. Afraid that if he didn't, a move to the left would result in the snapping of his spine. When the armor had been properly tuned, Nonus still found it still to be a bit quick, but not to the detrimental degree that it was originally tuned to. He applied the shoulder and forearms, which in totem added a total of 7 kilograms (16 pounds) on each arm. However, when the power was transferred into them, they easily weighed only 3 kilograms (6 kilograms) now.
Nonus looked at the clock to see it was 0755, which made him quicken in his movements. The police would no doubt be heading out after there fellow cohort was absent for a long enough period. Nonus then began to replace the parts of the .475, and the tomahawk. It took him only a few minutes, but the clean and smooth sounds of the .475 as it was returned to premium condition made Nonus feel a small sense of victory. The tomahawk needed nearly every part replaced, requiring extra time, which annoyed the young blonde.
Swapping out parts of the belt and chest piece attachments, Nonus had both the 9mm and its complementary three 15-round clips stored, as well as the .475 and three 8-round clips for it. Both pistols already fully loaded with magazines. He then took the shotgun and was amazed when he was able to store 15 rounds, plus one in the chamber, into the shotgun. Each round being a deadly 12-gauge C.H.E.R slug round. C.H.E.R standing for Concentrated High Explosive Round, needles to say level III ballistic armor would be torn to shreds with just one round. As well as whoever was on the other side of that ballistic armor. With the two 12-gauge holsters he placed on his right side of his waist, he was able to store an additional 32-rounds. Lastly was the massive 8mm automatic rifle, which easily weighing near 6 kilograms (13 pounds). Nonus Looked at the magazines for the weapon and saw each was a massive 60-round clip. The clips being quite large as they were tailored for 8mm magnum rifle rounds. Nonus slapped a clip inside and put the remaining three on his left side of his waist.
Placing the 12-gauge shotgun on the left side of his back, and the 8mm rifle on his right. The magnetic holsters drew on the weapons as they were locked onto the armors back. The force being applied so easily made the weapons almost seem like they were welded to the armor. Placing the combat knife on his lower left leg, the tomahawk on the back of his waist, the four grenades being strapped onto his right leg.
While the new weight was a hindrance in terms of speed, it wasn't as bad as it was when the suit was deactivated. He grabbed the duffel bag, and put the photo album, data chips, papers, files, some parts, a few rounds of extra .475 ammo and the holovid device in the now full duffel bad. He stored the wallet with the credit cards but stopped once he looked at the necklace. It was a simple gold necklace with a locket on it. The locket itself having an eagle on it with its wings fully spread. Opening it, a small image of his grandparents, and his mother. His mother was young, but also very beautiful. Taking much of her looks from her mother, having dark blonde hair like his in a bob-cut style, and lovely green eyes like emeralds. She was wearing a light blue dress, with her figure being one of a woman in late stage pregnancy. A bright smile plastered across her face. Nonus gulped as he looked at the picture, his mind retaining the image of the woman who gave birth to him.
"I'm sorry we never got to know each other mom." Nonus thought as he put the necklace around his neck. He pocketed the key and set the helmet on the desk. Opening one of the drawers, Nonus saw a half-empty cigar box of full body Maduros. He gazed at them, and took one out then closed it, and put the rest in the duffle bag.
"Fuck it, I deserve one." Nonus thought as he cut the end with the cigar cutter, making sure the cut was small as to have a tighter inhale. Lighting it with a match and tossing the other matches in the duffel bag. He zipped the now full duffel bag as he set it on the table with the helmet. Nonus inhaled the peppery flavored smoke, much to the young man's enjoyment. He closed the vaults and closed the file cabinets. The safe descended into its hollowed-out position as it soon sealed itself. The cigars aromatic fragrance now filled the room as Nonus put on the helmet.
The helmet itself weighed 5 kilograms, with the protective visor being the manner to see out of it. Small intake filters prevalent to allow for limited filtration for when chemical weapons are deployed. A 10-minute storage of oxygen being full filled for total seal off against chemical weapons. The HUD came to life, as sensors counted what was attached to the armor. Gun, melee weapons, grenades, and ammo supply were all displayed with icons and numbers. A bar at the very top indicated the total energy reserves of the suits power system. The percentage displayed on the far left.
"95%, about 20 hours' worth of power, damn. Apex newest models must have massive advances over the cumulative decades of research." Nonus thought as he realized this armor was much more different than what the attackers had used. Nonus tossed the duffel bag over his shoulder and stepped into the large garage.
"Bring up location of last mission location. Set starting point 40 miles west of Crescent Bay settlement," Nonus said ordering the suit's systems, repeating what one of Gramps holovids told him about the facilities location. "If there's anything there that can protect Crescent Bay, I will use it."
Nonus looked at the vehicles that were present and settled on the large Jet Bike. It was similar to the hover bike in that it hovered off ground, but instead of fan like devise, it used a scaled down jet engine. This model stood a good 14 meters long, and 4 meters in the end width, having dual turbines in the back. Nonus replaced its fuel cells and brought it up online with the key his grandfather had in the safe. He opened the large garage door and walked towards a large fuel tank for older gas models. Making sure its valve was fully closed first, he cupped a hose onto it and rolled it out a few meters. Walking back to it, Nonus opened the valve on full.
Looking at the clock Nonus began to walk the Jet Bike out, its settings on the lowest.
"0945, time for a party." Nonus thought as he stored the duffel bag in the Jet Bikes storage space. As well as a jug of water he had found, washed out, and filled. A few crackers and rations he had for sustenance. Leaning against the stationary Jet Bike, Nonus had the bottom of the mask part open as he inhaled his cigar. Waiting a decent 15 minutes until the sound of tires against gravel came prevalent as Nonus stood up.
Five large vehicles came into view, easily going 140 kph or more as they slowed down. They parked themselves in a firing line like matter as 10 officers, each heavily armed and in full combat gear. Much to Nonus's delight, the chief himself stepped out of the lead car. An obvious look of annoyance on his face, which only made Nonus grin. That alone made his day.
"Mr. Severus, you sure look ready for a trip. Mind if I ask by any chance do you know what happened to Officer McAllen? The officer who drove you home. He hasn't reported back in. Is it cause you have his squad over there by your garage?" The chief asked pointing to the vehicle Nonus had taken. Looking at Nonus with a crocodile smile. Nonus returned the look with a cheesier grin.
"Well, I do believe about 20 miles back, you should see him on the side of the road. Although the last time I saw him he was feeling a little…light headed. Hehehehehehehe." Nonus chuckled at the last part, enjoying the scowl that formed onto the chief's face. Kicking up some dirt from the ground, the chief looked at Nonus while shaking his head.
"Well now, that's a problem their son. Officer McAllen had a chore to take care of for me," The chief said as he looked at Nonus. "And I don't like it when a chore isn't done."
Nonus shook his helmeted head as he inhaled the now half-way smoked cigar.
"Same here chief, I hate it when a job isn't done. By the looks of it, your boys are not good at their job. This 9mm I have belonged to Officer Mike after all, although I just wanted him knocked out. Fool went and struggled, had himself a nasty fall. Very nasty indeed." Nonus Said as the Chief reached for his gun. The other officers following suit with rifles, shotguns, or pistols.
"Chief, can I tell you something real personnel?" Nonus said as he took one last inhale, exhaled it, and closed the helmet.
"Sure thing Mr. Severus make it good! It's going to be on your tombstone after all." The chief said drawing his pistol.
"You know about the attack, and for whatever reason you betray the people who you swore to protect. You fucked up my pistol and tomahawk, and probably told the hospital to keep quiet. You send men after me to have me killed! To even bury me by my own house non the less. You piss me the absolute fuck off sir, but especially now that you've gone and made me waste a cigar!" Nonus said as he threw the cigar to the ground. For a moment, the officers locked on sight as the cigar fell. Fell onto the fresh wet morning grass.
*FWOOOOOOOOOOOSH!* Flames came roaring to life as the Chief and his officer ran back to there cars. However, their eyes widened in horror as they noticed the fuel-soaked ground that they're vehicles were parked in. As well as covering their boots, and bottom of their pants. Many tried to run for the river, but the flames caught them as Nonus climbed onto the Jet Bike. He revved up the engine as the machine rose 5 meters (16 feet) off the ground. From his perched position, Nonus looked as they smell of flesh became prevalent.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" The Chief screamed as his entire body was subsumed by the fires. Ammunition and vehicles exploding as the debris pierced his and the other men's burnt skin. Plastics fusing onto their blister ridden flesh. Nonus reached for his 9mm, but then shook his head.
"Not even worth it." He thought as he accelerated away. A few seconds past until the sound of the garage being blown apart came. Nonus didn't slow down and look back, he had a job to do.
"Display route at current speeds of 240 kph (149 mph). I have a mission to complete." Nonus Said as the machine roared at full speed. He had a meeting with what laid at the bottom of that pit.
10K ppl! Hope you enjoy the work everyone. If you could leave a review & spread this to those who you believe would find this content enjoyable, i would be ever so grateful. Most of all thank you for your time and attention, such things alone are enough to thank for. - Textor Historia