Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
(Yaoi Fan Fiction)
Back-story: Chapter 9
For disclaimer : I do not own Sly Cooper or any of their Characters.
*snore* *drip* Hm... *snore* *drip* Wha... Slow opening eyes looked at the ceiling, awoken by the distant sound of snoring and a loose water faucet. Mercury got himself to crawl out of the bed, walking towards the bathroom with soft steps. He came face to face with his reflection, his hand turning off the faucet. That's better- A buzz went through his head, as he looked back into the mirror. Slightly at least...
Finally his mind had a chance to awaken, too. His hand lifted his shirt, slowly moving over the hurting area. His insides still felt softly numbed, and just 'sort of' out of place to the touch. His tummy growled, as the hand moved across. *drip* He quickly looked at the faucet, wondering where that sound came from. Mercury's eyes then moved back to the mirror, squinting slightly, as they spotted something in their peripheral vision.
Mercury gasped, turning and kneeling down. Sly was resting against the heater, clearly out of it himself. "Sly... hey-", Mercury softly shook the raccoon, seeing his clothes dripping. They were soaking wet. The raccoon reacted only partially to his presence, grunting slightly, as he moved him. "Sly, are you okay? What happened to you?", the other raccoon ever so slowly opened his eyes. The wet clothes making him cold to the touch, the heater doing its best to warm him up.
"...fancy meeting you here...", Sly's words were weak just like him that moment, Mercury only shaking his head. He tried to pick up his friend, coming barely off the ground. He felt so weak... he couldn't manage to lift him at all. "Mason! Ma-!", he fell down beside the raccoon, feeling his gut growl again. Halfway through his snore, Mercury heard the hawk wake up, practically jolting out of his bed. "Wha- I'm awake- awake...", Mason stumbled around the room, rubbing his eyes.
"Where are you? What's wrong?", following the grunts, the hawk stumbled across the two raccoons, standing in the bathroom door. "You both are a wreck, what are you doing on the floor?", like he wanted to be sitting on the wet ground... "Mason, just help him up- I can't...", Mercury shut his eyes, holding his belly. The raccoon turned to lift and support himself by holding onto the wall. Mason watched Mercury struggle momentarily, every attempt ending with him on his butt.
The hawk let out a sigh, his arm slipping under his shoulder, as he pulled Mercury to his feet. He guided his arms to the sink for a firm hold. Mason knelt down to the other raccoon, touching over his forehead. "He's so cold... what happened?", Mercury breathed heavily for a second, turning himself around. "I'm just as clueless as you- I found him soaked and barely conscious on the floor. We've got to get him new clothes and heat him up- now.", the raccoon's almost demanding tone got Mason to stare for a moment, before he grasped him and lifted Sly up.
With the raccoon on his side, he turned to view Mercury. "What about you, when Raz showed up with you here yesterday he said you need rest- but even now you don't look all that well...", Mason stumbled through the door, the raccoon's feet being dragged across the floor. Mercury looked after the hawk, it's true- but that can wait. With the maximum amount of strength he could muster, he 'threw' himself forward through the door, trying to stay steady on his feet.
Following them to the bed, they discarded Sly's wet clothing, stacking a few blankets over him. Mason walked back to the bathroom, preparing a hot-water bottle. On his way he saw Mercury's knees give in, plopping down on them next to Sly. "We've got to warm him up- I also should get a nurse...", Mason came back over, placing the hot-water bottle under Sly's blanket collection.
Mason looked at Mercury with a confused frown- once again trying to get up in a futile manner. He needed one just like the other raccoon, yet he seemed to disregard that completely. The hawk shook his head, looking over the pale raccoon. "I wondered where the hell he was yesterday. It looks like he got into a fight.", Mercury looked at Mason momentarily, looking back at Sly, seeing his bruised lip. "I'll go get the nurse- you stay and watch him. When he wakes up he may have got some answers for us.", Mason was quick in his steps, the raccoon glancing after him.
"Oh- and try not to die until I get back, yeah? Raz would probably kill me.", Mercury let out a disbelieving puff of air. As he left, Mercury's mind was back to Sly, placing a hand on his head. The raccoon sat in silence next to his friend for a good minute, trying his best to offer his own heat. Sly shifted his head, his eyes seemingly seeking out Mercury, but also looking rather distant.
"Sly? Feeling better?", Sly was looking right into his eyes, yet- the raccoon didn't react to any of his words or turn at his touch. Sly? Worried eyes traveled over his friend. A fight you say? Maybe it was the one person that Mercury wished he had not run into... "Sly...", he gulped holding his face to look into his eyes. "...did you run into Vernell?", the raccoons mouth slowly opened, no words coming out. Mercury felt his breath hit him... there was no other explanation.
Mercury murmured over his thoughts. He had to do something, remove Devistee's influence over Sly. But- if Sly got touched and he transferred it so easily... what, if the nurse touches him? Can he spread it too? Mason touched him... Mercury turned to the door, thinking over his next move. Maybe it wasn't as simple as one touch... hopefully-
Speaking of the devil, Mason returned, a nurse with him. "Mason!", he didn't know whether the raccoon was excited or in need of assistance, reaching out for his aid. The hawk helped him to his feet. The nurse walked closer to Sly, feeling for his vitals, checking his dilated pupils. "What exactly happened to him?", the raccoon was unsure what to say, how would one treat this?
"He seemed to have been involved in a fight... and was left out in the cold-", Mercury felt uneasy, seeing the nurse touch Sly. What if he indeed CAN spread it? This is not good. Mason could already be- Mercury gulped, moving slightly away from the situation. "Mason I- I need to get to Raz, I need to talk. I'll be right back okay? Watch over him.", the hawk looked somewhat confused, seeing the raccoon move backwards towards the door.
In an instant he was gone, rushing through the hallway. His mind rushed for a way to 'cleanse' Sly of Devistee's manipulation. If only he had those bolts Devistee used on him- they could surely expunge whatever took control of Vernell or Sly... but the doctor was smart enough to make them leak out- whether they hit or not. Otherwise they could have analyzed and reconstructed them.
Time for plan B... Mercury rushed further, speeding around several corners. Maybe... that glove. If it was able to 'absorb' the power, then perhaps... he had to try. Mercury stopped at Amy's place. It looked way more chaotic than usual. His hands grasped for every box he could find. Please no... it had to be somewhere- come on- Please! YES! His hand grabbed for the glove, on contact an immediate feeling of a stir moved through his entire body.
The grumbling in his belly stopped- his shaky legs calmed down... he wasn't certain what to think of it. Did it heal? There was no time to think about it... he had to get back to Mason and that nurse... Mercury eyed a few different things hidden behind some bubble wrap, uncovering an almost full set of the prototype exoskeleton- a small harness and shoes included. Mercury quickly shook his head- I have to get back...
On his way back he saw the door to the quarters slightly ajar. Mercury entered the room warily, his eyes looking around for Mason. Every step he took closer to Sly his anxiety sky rocketed- "Mason?!", his cry was all that echoed, the room empty and silent- except for Sly's soft mumbling. His eyes focused on his raccoon buddy, moving closer to his bed. Sly... With his hand he slowly moved to him, touching softly over his forehead.
Mercury's gaze inspected Sly closely, his breathing becoming a little uneven. After squirming slightly, it seemed to finally take effect, much to Mercury's delight. With each passing second he saw color come back to Sly's face, his eyes responsive- and no longer empty. The raccoon looked up at the touch, his eyes moving to his friend. Mercury? The raccoon was uncertain whether his mouth actually said what he wanted, but he was glad, as he embraced Mercury in a hug.
Not soon after though, his eyes shot open. "Mercury! Big problem- huge problem-", he was quick to let go, his movement spasmodically. Mercury couldn't relax a second, Sly already up and about, slipping out from under the covers. "Vernell- he was nuts... he attacked me and I believe he took- no he kidnapped Amy... I don't get it-", Mercury looked at his friend with wide open eyes. Not only did his worries turn out to be true, but-
Is it me or is it cold in here... Sly looked down on himself, noticing his lack of clothing- briefs being all that covered him. Sly looked over at Mercury, holding his eyes closed. His other hand holding a blanket over to him. "Why am I naked exactly?", Mercury shook his hand, signaling him to finally take the blanket. "I found you knocked out and barely conscious- clothes completely wet and you cold to the very bone. I had to heat you up somehow.", there was a joke to be made, but Sly opted for the blanket, as he kept shaking it so violently.
"Thanks... I must've been knocked out in the rain...", Sly threw the cloth all over him, seeing Mercury uncover his eyes. "I'm just glad you're okay- now, you wouldn't know where that nurse or Mason have gone to? We need to find them...", Sly frowned at Mercury. "But I thought Vernell-", the raccoon got up from his knees, his eyes locking to Sly's. "Yes, I know. Long story- for now we need to focus on finding them first. I have a suspicion and I hope it turns out to be wrong...", Sly's frown quickly faded, nodding reassuringly.
"If you say so, then let's go.", Sly discarded the blanket, the action slightly surprising Mercury. He rushed past him to the closet, looking for some spare clothing. Mercury remained still- cheeks a little flustered, his eyes blinking a few times. Wow. "I'll wait outside. Don't take too long, that huge problem could turn even bigger otherwise...", Mercury saw his thumbs up, the raccoon moving quick to leave him to change.
They weren't safe... Vernell had so much time- way before they noticed the possibilities. He had been to the cafeteria, the training grounds, shooting range... it could be spread through the whole complex and they would be none the wiser... What if he got to the general- just imagining the whole army under his command- the raccoon shuddered at the thought, spotting his friend exiting the room.
"What's the plan? Where do we start?", Mercury's eyes trailed over to Sly in thought. "We need to get to the general's office- and hopefully not too late at that.", they stormed off, Mercury keeping a close eye on Sly. Was it really enough? Could they stop this with only Amy's prototype? They can't release every single person on the compound this way- there's too many people...
"Sly...", the raccoon looked at his friend running in front, his head slightly lowered. "What ever happened yesterday, when you ran into Vernell- he is being controlled and it seems like it can spread. I need you to stay close to me. We don't know who we can trust. This is the only thing that's giving us a shot at stopping this.", he held up the glove for Sly to see, as Mercury's unsure gaze looked back at him.
He wasn't entirely sure of how the glove was their only hope, but he kept following Mercury- his mind being dragged through yesterday's memory. Mercury... He remembered seeing Amy confronting Vernell. The fox smiled at her with raised hands, tears filling her eyes. He could barely hear them, only seeing Vernell trying to step closer. That glove-
She raised her hand, holding it straight at Vernell. The fox stopped in his tracks, looking over the mouse. His smile faded, as he engaged her in a close encounter, keeping her hand far away from himself. Sly suddenly regained a grasp of himself, as he rushed forward towards them. Amy almost touched the fox, as he only barely dodged her- knocking her against a nearby wall. Sly felt like he barely covered any ground.
Vernell stood over Amy, as she watched him with wide eyes. The fox sighed, at her struggle- the mouse raising her hand one last time- which he evaded, knocking her out. Vernell picked her up, her faint struggle subsided quickly- her arms falling at his sides. Sly couldn't contain it any longer, his shout reaching out to the two. Vernell turned towards the raccoon, placing Amy back down against the wall.
Vernell straightened himself and turned to Sly. The raccoon stopped a few meters away, readying his cane. "Vernell, what are you doing- stop!", Sly watched the fox carefully, Vernell's smile had returned. "Oh- I think Amy is dehydrated, she was working non stop, I just found her and-", the fox stopped his monologue, seeing Sly tap his foot.
"I saw what happened-", Sly remembered a soft chill that moment, as the fox simply nodded with a smile. "I guessed so- here's me hoping... oh well.", Vernell started walking towards Sly- his cane keeping him at range. Sly walked close enough to swing, at the same time watching his distance to Vernell, as he reached out to him.
Sly ducked under his arm, as he heaved his cane against the fox's side. He stumbled back a bit, Amy lying in between the two. "The missing files the general was looking for... that was you, wasn't it? What else have you been plotting here?", Vernell chuckled slightly, Sly stepping away slightly. "At first I didn't take you for the type wanting to bust other thieves- but then again, Mercury values how much he can trust you. Ask yourself what would be the most valuable thing still hidden here, Sly?", the raccoon shuddered- how did Vernell know his name?
"Just who are you-", Vernell was on him in a split second, having crossed the distance before Sly could even react. He tried to knock him away with his cane, but the fox's grasp was already at his throat. "Come on- you know what it is-", his grasp got a little tighter, a smile broadening on his lips, "...it's Raz and your little friend.", his eyes locked onto Sly's, as a frown spread across his brow. "Well you can't take neither them nor Amy...", the fox's eyes lowered to the mouse still unconscious beneath them.
"They don't have a choice. I won't be coming for them, they will come for me...", with a light maniacal laugh his eyes returned to Sly. The raccoon tried to raise his cane, but Vernell was faster, as he grasped his arm. Sly's other arm moved towards Amy, touching her shoulder slightly. "Now I have to go though and since I don't want you to spoil the surprise yet...", Sly felt a weird tingle through his body, his vision going blurry, his legs feeling wobbly. His throat was released, as he saw the fox picking up Amy.
No!His vocal cords couldn't form a single word, as he sat there having to watch him walk away. Rain trickled down around them, hitting down on Sly and the concrete wall behind him. He tried to lift himself up, but his legs wouldn't let them. No- no... anything- crawl... his hands moved across the ground, trying to crawl after them- they felt so tired, like his whole body was falling asleep. Sly kept on crawling, dragging across the wetting floor. He crawled and kept on crawling- his memory stopping with a person looming over him, arms reaching out-
"Sly?", the raccoon was awoken by the voice of his friend. Sly looked back into Mercury's worried eyes, having stopped just around the corner of the general's office. Sly's hand moved over his head, his mind still a bit woozy. "I... remember yesterday-", Sly let out a sigh, Mercury's eyes quickly focusing on his. "You said he is being controlled? Then you know this is a setup? He took Amy, knowing we will come for her... he wants you- and Raz." the raccoon adjusted himself to the wall, his eyes trailing aimlessly.
"Yes-", the way he looked back at him- "'Yes', that's all? You want to rush in blindly and hope for the best? If he gets you, he'll-...", Sly couldn't bear to even finish his sentence, his innards fuming slightly. Mercury nodded at Sly, raising his friends head to look straight into his eyes. "I know. But I made a promise to Raz and we're not going in without a plan, don't worry.", Mercury looked for reassurance in Sly's eyes, dragging out their eye contact.
"Trust me?", a smile broadened on the raccoon's lips, Sly's eyes looking back into his with uncertainty. Mercury's hand patted over his shoulder. Trust me. Mercury turned back towards the corner- and just as they made it around, the two spotted Mason- casually leaning towards a window. The raccoons exchanged a quick gaze, sneaking closer to their target. From their vantage point Mercury could see the general speaking to someone. What's the plan here, Devistee?
The two kept watch, unsure of what he was doing- he was merely standing there, watching... The window slightly open, peeking inside. Sly slowly pushed past Mercury, but his hand stopped Sly. "Don't- I don't know how this works, but if what Amy said is true, then one touch can knock you out for good...", Sly looked down at Mercury's hand. Having experienced it once already, he could back up that thesis, but still...
"You really think that fighting him with that glove is a good idea?", having the picture of Amy playing in his mind, Sly felt slightly unsettled. Mercury clenched his fist tightly, his eyes racing between him and the hawk in front. He exhaled softly, getting up from their hiding spot. Getting closer he could see who the general was talking to- Raz?! Of course... he was waiting for the right moment. With Raz at his side the general was safe from Devistee's touch...
Mercury felt his breath quicken a bit, his step speeding up slightly. He straightened and walked towards the hawk. "Devistee... I know it's you. Where did you take Amy and Vernell!?", The hawk's head raised a slight bit, not really in surprise- rather... like he anticipated him. He was kind of scared at how menacingly the hawk turned with a smile and walked towards him.
That's a first. Scared of Mason, his foot went slightly back. They locked eyes, as he came closer steadily. As he was right on top of him, the hawk bent slightly, looking straight into his eyes. Before Mercury could grasp him with his glove, the hawk grasped his left arm, stopping his touch. The two stepped around slowly in a circle motion, eyeing each other closely.
Mason's eyes went to his arm, then back to the raccoon's eyes. "You guys need to come up with some new tricks...", the raccoon struggled against his grasp, anxious at what he would do. His voice playful and entangling. "Impress me.", Mercury's eyes shot open at his words, as the hawk took his left hand and placed it on Mason's chest. The glove took effect, Mason's grasp quickly fading from his arm. The hawk squinted slightly, his arms falling to his sides.
After a moment Mason looked up and straightened himself. Mercury watched his expression, his eyes wandering. They went to the hand on his chest, around the pair, to Mercury's face and back to the hand. "Why are you touching me?", as quick as his words, the hand came off- leaving Mercury a tad embarrassed. The hawk looked around again, slightly lost.
Just as he was starting to regain himself, Sly rushed out of no where, pushing the two forward. The trio fell in through the office door- undoubtedly having surprised the wolf and doberman. Raz watched them stunned, only able to shake his head. Sly quickly got up, getting on top of Mason. "Now get out and leave him alone.", the raccoon held Mason down, the hawk unsure of what was going on.
"Stop- stop, it worked!", Mercury pushed Sly away, holding out a hand for the hawk. Begrudgingly he took it, standing straight in front of the raccoons. The three finally turned to watch the disbelieving wolf and general. "Would you kindly explain what business brought you here?", expectant eyes set on them, the general walking closer, waiting for a reasonable explanation.
Seeing the two, hawk and raccoon clueless, Mercury stepped towards the general. "Sir- I'm sure Raz filled you in on what happened...", the wolf's eyes suddenly shot towards Mercury, making the raccoon gulp slightly. "We know what kind of 'spy' Devistee send in...", the general listened, walking closer to the raccoon slowly. "...we know that, 'disguised' as Vernell he kidnapped our squad member Amy Falconer.", Raz's eyes lowered slightly, as Mercury's words reached him.
"I was indeed talking to Raz about the situation- in his position as the squads leader, I would preferably talk to him in a private manner...", the general motioned for them to leave, Mason still unsure of what was happening. Mercury looked over at Raz, his expression dark, almost grim. His gut feeling told him, that the general was not on par with Raz in this matter either.
"You aren't planning on saving them-?!", the general's gaze grew stern, his hands placed behind his back. "Did I stutter when I said in private?", the raccoon grew anxious, Sly and Mason having stopped to look back at him. "You're just going to leave he-", the general took a step forward, Mercury's very voice faltering. "Enough! This does not concern any of you right now- ...Have I made myself clear?", the way the doberman's eyes landed on Mercury... it was the first time he saw the general close to losing his cool.
The general and Mercury kept each other locked in their gaze. His eyes quickly shot over to Raz, the wolf looking just as frustrated as Mercury. Why aren't you saying anything? Raz's eyes moved to Mercury, the raccoon's gaze suddenly stern with a deep frown. The general moved over to Mercury, making him regain himself.
"If we don't help them, they're as good as dead.", the doberman inhaled deeply, his strained eyes back on Mercury. "'WE' are going to help them! It just doesn't include you or Raz!", it felt like the air was filling with electricity, the tension feeling quite overwhelming on the raccoon. "Understand that it is a key move for you to stay here. It's to keep you two safe.", the general walked on his right side, placing his arm around his shoulder.
Mercury's eyes moved to look at the general's hand. "I won't let you two go there. We can't let them lay any hand on you or your lepidoptera.", as he finished, Mercury tried slapping away the general's hand, much to his surprise he was quick to retract it to safety. "You won't let us go, because- I can't...believe it. Because you could lose your precious weapons?! You sound just like the people that manic doctor can't seem to stop talking about.", Mercury turned his whole body to the doberman, eyeing him down fiercely.
The general raised his hands a little, trying to calm the raccoon down. For a moment they stood there in silence- Mason and Sly now also caught in the feeling of tension. Raz almost looked like he wanted to intervene, but Sly could see, he was waiting for something. "That is not the reason I can't let you go. As a holder of this strain you have to understand, yes- it is easy to weaponize, which is exactly why we can't risk one of you falling for this obvious trap. Imagine what Devistee could do!", the general tried to step closer, his hand reaching back for Mercury's shoulder.
Stepping back slightly, he kept staring at the doberman. His hand stopped, looking over at the raccoon. "You bear a certain responsibility as a host. I can't let you risk the safety of this country- maybe more! I will send out squads that will take care of the matter- with you and Raz safely back in this base.", Mercury crossed his arms, squinting his eyes at the general.
"And how long will that take? Until now operations that big took at least a day preparation- there is no time, general.", he grit his teeth, as his fist clenched up tightly. The general sighed deeply, his dark eyes looking back into Mercury's. "This is what I meant, Mercury. You don't know the enemy we're fighting here. Last time you got lucky you survived. Now it's an obvious trap. You aren't trained enough for this. Even if I were to send you out. Once one of you falls- everyone will. So take responsibility!", the general straightened, his eyes narrowed at the raccoon.
The raccoon bit his tongue, lest he spilled the wrong words. "I can imagine the pressure that lies on you general. It is a hard choice to make. But I have already chosen to do so- taking responsibility. It just doesn't hold the same meaning as to what you believe. A long time ago, if I had an understanding of who I am- what I can do, maybe my parents would have survived... back then I couldn't prevent it. If you're asking me to take responsibility, then it means I am going to try and save Amy and Vernell with the upmost potential I can muster up.", the raccoon remained clear in his position, reflecting the generals gaze back at him.
"Mercury-", the wolf quietly muttered behind him, clearly surprised by the way he talked to his superior. "You are part of a whole platoon of reliable and trustworthy soldiers. Knowing this you still think none of them are able to help out sergeant Falconer and Paxton to an extend you or Raz would be able to?", Mercury's eyes lowered, looking at his glove.
"For all I know, general, Devistee has invaded the compound once and left marks. Who says the whole platoon isn't in his control already? The only people I can trust right now are in this very room. Cleansing each and every one of the troops is an impossible feat, especially without Amy at our side.", his eyes went back up to the doberman, his glove clenched. "Hard maybe, but not impossible. I'm sorry but my answer has to remain the same. I can't let you go. I'll send troops after them, as soon as they are ready.", it felt like a massive eruption of heat suddenly burst between all of them. Even the general was starting to feel uncertain in his position.
Defeated, Mercury eyes went over to Raz- his eyes mirroring Mercury's. The raccoon turned to the hawk and Sly, clearly struck by the whole thing, too. Mercury stepped closer to the general, his eyes meeting the doberman's. "I stayed for a reason, Sir- and found so much more. I want to believe in you general, you mean good after all- but if something happens to either of them, can you live with the consequences?", the doberman was shook, his eyes widening at the raccoon.
"I won't be able to. I know that, if I had the chance to do anything to save a loved one- I'd do it, no matter the chance of success or sacrifice I had to endure.", the general's eyes moved over Mercury, the raccoon slowly turning away from the doberman. Mercury looked back at the wolf one last time, defeat clearly visible in his eyes. Raz couldn't help but look over at the general, unable to conceal, that he felt the same about the decision.
The general wasn't blind, he could tell that neither of them were keen on the idea of staying behind- yet it was the only logical conclusion, can they not see it for what it is? Watching after the raccoon, the general let out a mix of a grumbled sigh. "Private- stop.", the raccoon stopped, his gaze traveling from Mason to Sly, before he slowly turned. The general closed his eyes, letting out a heavy sigh, easily felt by the others in the room.
"It is indeed not an easy choice. I realize that keeping you here goes against what I intend to teach you, but so does sending you out there.", Ephilus turned to Raz, looking in the wolf's eyes. "I am a man of emotions, too. I am not keen to the idea of losing people that mean a lot to me and others in the platoon.", Ephilus turned to look at the raccoon directly. "If Sergeant Marlowe can assure me that this operation will be a success, then I'll allow the four of you to head out first- as a recon squad.", Mason and Mercury watched disbelievingly, their eyes widening at the wolf.
Raz locked eyes with the general, this came out of nowhere... he has never seen the general change his mind in such a manner... "Sir, I told you- I'm not up to the task being a counselor for these kind of choices...", he watched the doberman nod slightly. "It doesn't change the fact, that you're one of my most trustworthy men. Do you think you can make it work with this disheveled wreck of a squad? That's all I want to hear.", expectant eyes set on Raz from all sides, Mercury's and Mason's being the brightest.
The general hid a smile, knowing full well he was capable of making such a judgement call. Raz's eyes looked over at the bundled underdogs of varying degree. Raz's eyes locked with the raccoon in front, remembering the fire he felt surging in yesterday's rain- even subconsciously grasping his jawline. Eyes filled with certainty trailed back over to a smiling general. His smile only grew brighter.
"We won't disappoint.", vague- but the general accepted the answer for what it was worth. "I hope so, you shouldn't be afraid to disappoint me- because it wouldn't be just me- it would be the whole continent.", the general's hand gestured the spread out group closer, all of them gathering around a nearby table. The general spread out a map, a big circle marking out a few rock formations.
"With the intel we were able to recover from Devistee's left equipment we could point to a certain location. His hideout lies within the Ural mountains in Russia.", the general pointed over the formation, tapping at more rural region along the edge of the mountain. The area was secluded by a lot of forest. "The exact entrance we could not recover, you'll have to look for it when you entered the area.", his gaze looked through the whole group, inspecting the map closely.
"Try not to be seen, they will be expecting you.", the general's words left a weird tingle in Raz, looking around the group. Was it the right call? He wanted to save them the most. Could he really have the audacity to make the call, that they can actually do it? Raz grasped around the map, rolling it tight, his breath uneven. The general noticed, placing his hand on Raz's shoulder. They locked eyes momentarily, Raz nodding at the general.
"General, I'm afraid we're going to need a helicopter.", amused the doberman chuckled softly. "Already taken care of-", the squad looked at him surprised, wondering what he meant. "Sending out a recon-squad would have been the first step anyway, it was just a slight preparation.", the wolf turned to view Mercury, his surprise diminished to something else. Raz started walking with the three of them, the wolf seeing Mercury suspiciously turning back again and again.
Mercury struggled to step through the door, a sigh leaving his lips. Raz looked back at him, the other raccoon and hawk continuing on their tracks. "Mercury?", the wolf looked him over, seeing troubled eyes look back- trailing down, as if they were unsure of something. Mercury took a step back, reentering the room. "Go on- I'll be right behind you.", he knew something was wrong, maybe Mercury had an even stronger feeling of it... Alright, good luck... the wolf nodded at him, seeing him close the door shut.
The raccoon turned to see the general- startled perhaps, looking back at him. With a twitch his head turned to him. "Mercury- forgot something?", the raccoon just stood there, very slowly turning to face him. The doberman took a deep breath, chuckling softly. "I have to admit you have a knack for emotional warfare. You really threw me off. I hardly ever question myself in these situations.", Mercury's eyes caught the general's gaze, his feet finally taking him closer.
"Seth, if I am still allowed to call you that- are you sure about this? I don't know, if I'm really ready...", the general looked at him dumbfounded for a good second, walking around his desk. The raccoon just got done talking him into letting them go and now he comes with a reversal? The general came closer, a chuckle now audible. "Let me make this clear- you raise hell against me to let you go and now you want to inform me, that you're not ready? What-?", the sudden confusion was evident on his face, the doberman clearly perplexed.
Mercury looked at him, his eyes closing slightly, a sad demeanor taking over him. "I know this sounds weird... I know I can sound tough, it's just...", Mercury leant back against a table, taking a few deep breaths. The raccoon brought his hand to hold his right shoulder, as he stood there sulking. The general walked over to him, stopping at his side. His sad eyes looked over the general.
"I do understand. I understand what it means to lose at this point. I don't know, if I'm capable of holding up every one's expectations. I promised so much to Raz, I don't know what to do-", the general saw the raccoon shivering. The doberman saw his eyes cross his own, quickly falling back to the ground. The raccoon's hand grasping at his own shoulder dropped to his side, like a flame of hope just died in him. Seth got closer, placing his hand on the raccoon's shoulder, catching another gaze from the sulking Mercury.
"It's hard, I know. There isn't an easy way to uphold every one's expectations and there isn't always an easy answer to everything. Like- just look at me... we all know what the logical conclusion to our problem is- and yet... I'm sending you out there...", Mercury's lips formed a very soft smile, his head tilting down slightly. "Maybe... maybe we shouldn't let ourselves be controlled by these thoughts.", his head raised very slowly, listening to the general closely.
"We should think of the ones who root for our success. We can't let them down.", Mercury softened slightly, his head turned to Seth. "Watch it, you might be hit with plagiarism for those words...", the general looked into his eyes, a smile forming on his lips. Mercury noticed, the raccoon's eyes trailing downwards. "Someone dear to me said almost the exact same words... coincidentally...", Mercury's eyes went back to the general's, a bright smile on the raccoon's lips.
"What a weird coincidence indeed.", the general chuckled softly. Mercury straightened himself, pushing himself away from the table. "I think I'm ready. I can't let them down. Not after this speech.", the raccoon started laughing, the general joining in a moment after. They slowly calmed down, as they stood opposite of each other. Mercury looked straight into the general's eyes one last time, his hand rising quickly, as if he forgot something. "Oh- and... thank you, Dr. Devistee.", the general looked at him for a moment, perplexed... What?
In less than a second, Mercury's bright smile faded, his glove hitting the chest of the doberman. In clear surprise he looked at the raccoon with wide eyes. He tried to get the hand off of his chest, clearly straining in great effort, but it was futile. Mercury pushed him back against a table, the general clearly growing weaker. "How'd you...", a smiled crossed his lips. "I saw you evading the glove the moment I entered this room, keeping at my side, evading my hand in every circumstance. And then those words... they are his words, not yours.", it started to look like it was actually hurting the one in control, so the raccoon kept at it.
Never the less, Mercury felt the tingle and pain in his own stomach return, grasping it with his own hand. It didn't go unnoticed by his opponent. With a strained breath he looked at him. "Looks like this is a two-edged sword, and who do you think can last longer?", he certainly sounded sure of himself, but he quickly proved him right, as Mercury lost the grip and felt his knees bend. The doberman regained himself, straightening just in front of the raccoon.
Pained he fell backwards, his breath quick and in puffs. The doberman walked around him, eyes fixated on him. "Not bad, you were very close, I must admit.", Mercury let out a pained exhale. "Yeah, I knew you were in their heads- I just needed to find a way for you to slip up, so I could be certain.", the raccoon tried to shuffle himself slightly backwards, leaning against a table.
Mercury watched him for several seconds, just pacing around him. "Now that the cat's out of the box- why don't you just kill me- or whatever it is you need us for...", his words prompted a smile coming from Seth. "Oh- you got this quite wrong, I don't want to kill you... or whatever- 'I' want to break you.", he knelt down next to him, grabbing his jaw to look into Mercury's eyes.
Mercury looked back into them, confused to say the least. "That was really good. I should have known you were looking to make me mess up- and making me say Sly's words... wow-", so it's true... he was indeed in everybody's heads. "It was hard to give a sound answer quickly, so you hoped I would repeat what he had said- I can't believe I fell for that, but still- witty...", Seth looked down at him smiling. His grip remained, turning Mercury's head as he looked at each eye individually.
Mercury felt a bit too weak to block his advance, which granted Seth to come closer and invade his personal space even more. "You aren't Devistee, are you?", the doberman started clapping, the sound slightly deafening on his ear. "Of course I'm not that jacked-up, sleep-deprived junkie. Took you long enough on that one.", yeah, it might have, but it was scarier to think there is even more baddies than him. And now he had to deal with one that actually has a clear mind?
"We don't have a chance, do we? You have the two of them prepared as a setup- you have this whole complex under your control and could just take us in whenever you want. You are toying with us.", he earned another clap, as the doberman smiled at him viciously. "Wow you are on a spree now, aren't you? Phenomenal. Yes, I could end this right now, but like I said- you have me intrigued. I think it's worth changing up the plans a little bit...", the doberman got real close, Mercury feeling the breath right on his cheek.
Seth pushed him back against the table, sitting him upright. "It's true, the odds are stacked against you.", Mercury's eyes slowly made their way up to the general's, the feeling cold- cruel even. His vicious smile returned, kneeling down in front of the raccoon. "Why are you doing this, change your plans- because of me?", his smile dwindled softly. "How well can one person...", he could swear his voice slightly faltered, before he continued. "-against all projected expectations, their own probable impending doom... against themselves- when all odds are stacked against them... can they manage to stand victorious? I'd really like to witness for myself, wouldn't you?", the doberman's breath went along his ear, as he slowly moved his head to look into Mercury's eyes.
The question of why he cared so much was still looming in Mercury's mind. Before he could ask who he was actually talking to, the doberman grabbed him by the collar, pulling him to his feet. "So you'll send us out there. Without any support from the troops we don't stand a chance, even I know that- I'm not endangering them to go on a suicide mission.", the doberman let go of his collar, fixing Mercury's clothing.
"Don't worry, I will send backup, as soon as they are ready.", what?! The raccoon could only look at him baffled, does he really expect him to believe that? The doberman's lips formed a smile, as he followed Mercury's eyes. "I know what you're thinking, 'He aint sending anything!'. Not true, I'm not a maniac- I'm not playing unfairly. If you manage to pull this off, you deserve to keep going. This will not be a suicide mission.", he couldn't help but still be skeptic, his eyes narrowing, as he frowned at the doberman.
"And if I refuse to play by your rules? I'm waiting for the catch.", he opened his arms, smiling at the raccoon. "True, there always needs to be an incentive, right? Something to keep you going. So how about...", he felt himself being pressed against the table, the doberman's steps getting closer- his stare more intense. "...if you don't follow through-", Mercury saw him pull out his gun, his arm rising up. Mercury's eyes widened, seeing him hold the gun at Seth's temple.
"I'll see how many of the soldiers keep their guns loaded at all times. Not only would that mean there is a lot less space occupied here, but you'd also lose those answers you're looking for, aint that so?", the doberman tapped at his head, letting the gun cock itself. Not a maniac, right.After taking a deep breath, Mercury nodded at the doberman, gaining a very bright smile.
The way he stared into his eyes got Mercury thinking, if he really knows everything... "That was you talking yesterday? Wasn't it? How do I know you didn't just make up everything and I am chasing after ghosts.", Seth rolled his eyes, sighing at the raccoon. "You sure are high maintenance. So many question and never glad about an answer. No, that was the general talking. I took over, when you were on the brink of leaving. No point in wasting everyone's time. He would have caved in either way, but the sooner the better, yeah?", he was slowly pacing around him, gun still in his hand.
There it was again, the cold glare. "You don't need to believe it. There is a lot he is keeping secret. But when I'd tell you, you wouldn't know truth from lie, would you? So how about you hurry up and catch that helicopter ride? I think we're done here.", the smile he returned to the raccoon felt vile to him. He knew every thing Mercury ever desired to know. For someone else to know him better than himself... there's only one person he'd entrust that to.
It was driving him insane, yet his feet took him towards the door. The general's smile never faded, as he looked back shortly. "Good luck!", Seth's comment went numb to his ears. His eyes fell just as defeated as the first time he had turned to leave. How was he going to tell the others, that they are fighting a losing battle? All their lives depending on this one gamble.
Mercury could see the stare of every other soldier, as he walked through the base to the helipad. Every one of them had that conniving smile on them, their stare undermining his thoughts completely. On his way through Amy's place, he looked over the mess again- his feet stopped, accidentally kicking a box around. His eyes swerved to look at the content briefly. He barely recognized reaching the take-off point, as the others looked at him. Raz studied him and his demeanor closely, he could already tell- they were in for a treat.
End of Chapter twenty two.