Agents of SHIELD: Agents of Redemption

by JFuzzyWraith0587

With dangerous change on the horizon, Director Coulson tries to stem the tide, but he can't do it alone. With his team still recuperating from the Jia Ying/InHuman assault and Simmons missing he has to recruit an old ally to aid him. Jaxx is a former soldier and a 0-8-4, but are his skills alone enough to help rebuild SHIELD, or will the secrets from his past make him a danger.

8. Ep1 Ch3 A Debt to be Paid pt5

Disclaimer:

Coulson

Not good. (He continues watching as the video starts breaking up once more.) "I couldn't stop the- (video breaks up) Streiten *ZZZZTTTT*…This is the last thing we need today. (He looks over at Skye.) "Skye," she turned around and I the look on her face told me that she has no clue what's going on either. Definitely, not a good sign. (He hands her back the tablet, and she frantically tries to figure out the problem. Meanwhile, the video continues to break up and cut out, making it near impossible to know exactly what he's saying. She finally stops, only to stare at the tablet,) "The video file, it's corrupted," she looks up at me for just a split second.

"So what, the card was damaged during the fight or something?" Trip wants answers, just like everyone else. "It's not external problem, it's an internal one. I'm not sure what's going on or if I can even-" (The video interrupted her,) "I've been monitoring Hydra's commun-*ZZZZZRRRRTTT* a while now (video breaks up) their up to some-(video breaks up) *grunts out in pain* Damnit!"

(Shaw leans his head back, then forward; his eyes were clenched shut, in an effort to try and control the pain he was currently enthralled to. Skye and Simmons both looked away, because seeing him in this state was becoming too much for them. Even Trip had to look away, even if for a moment; this left Coulson and Jaxx to remain watching, as their friend slowly succumbs to his wounds. The hardest part out all this, for them, was they knew how the video ends; Coulson only prays, for the sake of his team, that the video doesn't show it.)

"Sorry about that*ZZZZZZRRRRTTTT*on't have much time le*ZZZZZRRRRTTTT*. But I know where he is, where they took*ZZZZRRRRRTTTT*iten. He's (video breaks up, for a few seconds)Islands. Repeat, they have him(video breaks up)Islands. The Exact coordina*ZZZZZRRRTTTTTT* (Video cuts out,)

(The screen turns to static, leaving all to wonder what just happened. Skye looks down at the tablet, and frantically tries to figure out what exactly happened. Coulson meanwhile, was thinking on the last words that Shaw had said.) There was something there, something about, Islands? Maybe Skye can clean it up, (He turns to Skye, who is still trying to figure out what had happened.) "Skye can you rewind it, back to the last part?" from the look on her face, and the way that she's tapping the tablet; the frustration must be setting in. "I'm trying AC, I'm trying; but there's a problem,"

(The tablet started becoming overwhelmed, and started to replay the video once more. This time however the images were distorted, either by having the wrong color or freezing in place altogether. Skye, at this point stopped any effort to restore any part of the video, as it was now out of her control. Suddenly, the tablet started to spark, startling Skye and causing her to drop the tablet onto the table in front of her. She took a few steps back, just as the tablet started to violently spark more and more. After nearly a minute it stops, leaving behind only a single flame, which soon snuffed itself out.)

Jaxx

Well, that was…something. (Everything seemed to calm down, now that the tablet was, in a sense, dead. Coulson took a couple steps towards the table, his eyes trained on the tablet itself.) Easy Coulson, it might have another fit if you-(Coulson picks up the tablet, giving it a once over,) touch it. (After looking it over, he sets it gently back down on the table. Jaxx walks over next to Coulson, in order to get a better look. Jaxx looks for where the SD card was inserted, and once he found it; he grabbed a pair of tweezers and slowly pulls out the card. Once he does, he lifts it in front of his face, and takes a closer look.)

Damn, "I'm not an expert on this, but…*sighs* it looks fried." No sense in sugar coating it, besides; I'm pretty sure Shaw booby-trapped the card anyhow. I'll give him this much, he's pretty thorough, for a dead guy. (He sets the card and tweezers down on the table; the others gather around, looking at their last chance to find Dr. Streiten lying fried and destroyed on the table in front of them. Skye looked especially downtrodden,)

(Coulson looks up from the table, at Skye, having only one question that he needed her to answer.) "Skye, were you able to recover any of the data?" No, Shaw would've been too careful for that, and looking over at her and seeing that look in her eye. Well, that look tells me that her answer isn't the one that he wants to hear. "I'm sorry Coulson," (Simmons and Trip look over to her,) "I wasn't able to save any of it. It had a failsafe in case anyone attempted it, which is how," she eyeballs Coulson's new, and very charred, paperweight.

"It ended up extra crispy. I'm so, so sorry Coulson." I've seen that look of guilt in her eyes before; back on the plane, when she started talking about that guy she killed. It's not my place, but someone should say something; give her some hint of reassurance at least. "It's not your fault Skye," and there's lil sis Simmons to the rescue. (Simmons walks over to Skye, and comforts her by gently rubbing her shoulders,) "She's right Skye; you couldn't have known that Shaw had, Mission Impossibled the damn thing. Don't beat yourself up, girl."

Mission Impossibled, oh I'm gunna steal that from ya Trip. (Coulson walks around the table, and stands next to Skye. He places his hand on her arm,) "He's right Skye; Shaw would have had a contingency just in case the card fell into the wrong hands. And besides, we now have a lead, so chin up. We'll get'em." Lead? What lead? "Umm Coul, what lead are you talking about exactly?" I ask him, hoping he doesn't give me some cryptic answer. "From what I was able to make out, he said something about, the Islands. That's our clue."

Uhh yea, if that wasn't cryptic I don't know what is. (Trip looks over at Coulson,) "Do you think it's a code name for the base where they're keeping him?" Hmm Trip could be onto something, hell; I almost forgot how Hydra and S.H.I.E.L.D. love their code names. "Could be, Skye," before Coulson can finish, she already has her laptop and starts typing quick, fast, and in a hurry. "Checking the files for any reference to 'The Islands', which by the way, is a stupid name for a secret base." Uhh, really? "Isn't this place called 'The Playground'?" Crap, I shouldn't have said that.

(Everyone turns and looks at Jaxx, almost glaring at him,) "Okay, got it; don't make fun of 'The Playground'." (Everyone continued glaring at him, everyone except Skye, who went back to work searching for her objective, but still looking scornful.) "*mutters* Yea well, sorry it's not as cool as 'The Sword'." Really Skye? Did you really have'ta bring that up again? (Coulson looks over at Skye, a look of amusement on his face,)

"The Sword huh," I know that tone Coul, and that look…please don't make this any worse than it already is. (Skye hands stop typing, as she looks up and over at Coulson. The look of realization flickers across her face, when she realizes what she had done. Soon that realization was replaced with nervousness, not knowing how to repair the damage that she has done.) Crap, she's getting antsy, nervous; which is only going to make this worse.

(Jaxx walks over to the table with Shaw's personal effects once again, looking through them once again in an attempt to ignore what was heading his way.) Let them have their fun, it's fine, it's cool. Just find something to…(He thoughts stop, as he sees Shaw's fake ID and Social Card. He picks them up and just stares at them, while everyone behind him was talking; to him, they were most likely talking about his secret persona. At the moment however, his full attention was on the Card; something about it felt…familiar. He couldn't place it, but there was something…) I'm such an idiot!

(He turns around, and rushes over to the others; interrupting their current conversation,) "I know where it is!"

Everyone looked on, shocked by his sudden proclamation; some had wondered if he was simply trying to draw their attention from their current course of conversation. Soon however, he made his intent clear to them, stating that the last word that Shaw had spoken on the video, coordina. Even though it was cut off, everyone knew what he was trying to tell them. Shaw was about to tell them the exact coordinates as to where Hydra was keeping Dr. Streiten. Jaxx had laid the forged Social Security Card onto the table in front of them, giving them a chance to see what he sees.

Skye

Okay, so it's a social card; a really bad forgery at that, but what's this have to do with finding Streiten? (She looks up from the card, shooting Jaxx a look of confusion.) "What does a bad forgery have to do-" (Jaxx interrupts her,) "Add these numbers to your search program?" Why? I mean seriously, what's all this about? He's literally given me nothing to go on. "Skye," (she looks over at Coulson,) "Humor him." (Skye sighs and shakes her head, but she does it regardless.)

"*mutters* Okay, fine, but I don't see how a set of random numbers, from a forged Social card are going to help us find Hydra or the Doc." I finish typing the numbers into my search program, even though it's just a waste of our time. I look up at Jaxx who seems awfully confident that he's onto something. "I know Shaw, better than most here. And I know for a fact that Shaw," (he picks up the Social card once more, parading it to everyone in the room.) "He would never, have taken such a piece of crap forgery like this, not unless…" he had a reason to. "These numbers (puts the card back down on the table.) aren't random at all."

(A few seconds later, her computer pings. She looks down to see that her search found something on those numbers that she typed in. And boy, was it a surprise in deed.) "*under her breath* I can't believe it." I look up from my laptop and over at Coulson, and Jaxx; both eager to know what I've found. "What is it Skye? Did your search program find something?" actually AC it did, and I never thought I would say this, but, "Jaxx was right, those numbers weren't random, they were coordinates."

(All seemed shocked by this new influx of information, all except Jaxx; whom seemed more relieved that he was right about Shaw leaving one last clue for him to find.) "Where do they lead?" well Trip; I hope you've had your shots. "To the Solomon Islands. More specifically,"(She brings up satellite imaging from the area, and zooms in on the area where the coordinates lead to. She then turns the laptop around for Coulson, Trip, and Jaxx to see.) "Here. The locals call this not-so-small island 'Oblivion'. *mutters sarcastically* Not ominous or reassuring, like, at all."

(Sarcasm aside, most everyone was thrilled; at least in the sense that they've finally managed to catch up with Hydra, and if they play their cards right. Might even get a step ahead of them.) "Good work Skye." I love it when he gives me a compliment, but I'm not the one he should be giving it to. "Couldn't have done it without Jaxx." Now he shoots me that, devilish smile of his. Finally, we're done being two steps behind Hydra, and it's about damn time.

"Trip, I need you and Billy to gather the gear; Icer's, food rations, anything that we could possibly need, scrounge it up." I know Trip just got back from rescuing some agents, but I also know that he's more than eager to get this show underway. "Understood sir." He smiles before he rushes out of the room, leaving the rest of us waiting for orders. "Skye," yay my turn. "Scroll through the archives, find out anything and everything you can about this, Oblivion; and cross-reference them with that thumb drive. We need to know what we're walking into, before we walk into it."

Is it weird that I love this part of the missions, or is it just me? "On it."

Simmons

"Simmons, I need you to get vaccinations ready for Trip, Jaxx, and myself ready; the last thing we need to contract is typhoid fever while on mission." Coulson can't leave me here, not when my only chance to save Fitz is out there somewhere. "You're not going without me AC," Skye, always the rebel, always defying orders, and expectations. (Coulson looks over at her, about ready to say something when,) "Or me sir." I can't believe I just said that, well, believe it actually seeing as how I just said it not 3 seconds ago and now I'm blabbering on and on so I'm just going to stop, right now.

(Coulson, Skye, and Jaxx all look at her, looks of shock and surprise washing over they're faces.) "Simmons, I know why you feel the need to go." He knows? How could Director Coulson possibly know? "You do sir?" (He walks around the table and over to her, and gently grabs her shoulders,) "Dr. Streiten, he created the serum that save Skye and brought my back from the dead. And you want to use it on Fitz." BLOODY HELL, HE KNOWS! Well of course he knows you ol' girl, he's the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. after all!

"Sir, I just…" I've got to get him to believe that that's not my agenda because I know how he feels about the serum, GH.325. Even after we saved Skye using it, the two of them nearly locked away, deeming it too dangerous to use ever again. Yet how can something so miraculous, be so terrible and yet… I'm a terrible liar and they know it. However, this could be the only thing that could save Fitz, so I have to try. "I'll admit, that thought had crossed my mind, on many occasion, but…" half-truths girl, "I'm an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. first, doctor and scientist second; he is one of our own, and if he is injured, you we'll need me sir."

I can't tell if I managed to convince him or not, as his face remains neutral. "Trip is trained in field medicine Simmons," damnit Coulson, I need to go, can't you understand that! Calm yourself girl, just calm yourself, "And he will be of more use to you as a Specialist. Please sir," half-truths, "I don't, I can't lose anyone else I care about. Please sir, don't make me beg." Please let it be enough. (Coulson turns away, looking at Skye, who seems side with Simmons; then at Jaxx, who seems unsure, but nevertheless reluctant to see her in the field.)

"*sighs heavily* Both of you, grab your gear; we leave in 20." Thank god! Just hang on Fitz, you'll be back on your feet before you know it. "Thank you, sir." (Simmons looks over at Skye, who closes her laptop and the two of them rush out of the room, before the Director could change his mind. Jaxx meanwhile, walks up next to Coulson, wearing a look of concern and distrust.)

Coulson

"What?" I can tell, even without looking at him, I can tell that he wants to say something. "Nothing, it's just..." (Jaxx shrugs, just as Coulson looks over at him,) "Don't be coy. Say what's on your mind." He just stands there, no emotion, no change in expression, nothing whatsoever; it's almost like he's some sort of, creepy statue or those creepy porcelain dolls. Man, I hate those dolls, it's like their eyes follow you wherever you go. "It's nothing. It can wait." I don't know why he's suddenly shutting me out, but I intend to find out. (Coulson turns fully, facing Jaxx who is still stares out, and beyond the door.) "If there's something bothering you, I have a right to know. You owe me that much at least."

(Jaxx clenches up his jaw, as he desperately wants Coulson to just move on from this line of inquiry. But he knows his friend all too well,) "It's just; I'm just a little concerned is all." (Coulson appeared more than a little surprised by Jaxx's answer. That is, until it finally struke him,) "Concern for the mission, or for Simmons?" (The corner of Jaxx's mouth curls a bit, which Coulson notices and takes as a sign.) Ahh, so that's what this has to be about. "You're concerned that she's not ready to be back in the field?" He sighs, then turns and faces me. (Jaxx crosses his arms over his chest.) "A little, but I'm mainly concerned that she's less concerned with getting Dr. Streiten back than his research."

Jaxx

"I understand Jaxx, but don't worry; when it comes down to it, Simmons will make the right call." What's happened to you Coulson? I find it hard to believe that becoming Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. has made you this naïve. I love Simmons, she's my sister and she will always have my trust, but when it comes to matters of the heart; you can never be truly sure of anything. Well, I'll just let this go, for now at least. But I will keep a close eye on her, at least until it's over and my mission is complete. (Jaxx looks down for a moment, and then lets out a sigh.) "Yeah, you're right."

(Coulson pats Jaxx on the shoulder then walks out of the room; Jaxx stands there for a moment before leaving as well. As Jaxx makes his way down the halls of this secret base, he starts using his training to discreetly memorize where the cameras, access points, are located. He kept a mental note of how many personnel were on duty, where they were, and even where the armory was. Eventually he came to an office, and after he looked briefly, he opened the door and took a peek inside. He slowly went inside and took a moment to take in all the nostalgia, because to him; it had felt like he'd just traveled back in time to the late 1940's.)

"Wow." (He continued to look around, looking closely at the vinyl records, the books, the furniture, everything. Then he turned his attention to the Coulson's desk; he walked over to it and touched the top, slowly running his fingers along the smooth stained surface. He appreciated the fine craftsmanship, and the detail and great care that someone to in making this fine piece. He looked at all the old, post-war spy trinkets scattered atop the desk,) "*scoffs, then chuckles a bit* Oh Coulson, still just-" (he pauses as he notices something. Hidden beneath a table mat, it was some sort of carving, and not part of the original design.) "What is this?"

(He places his fingers on the mat, and slid it off to the right. His eyes widened, as confusion and perhaps shock settled in. He runs his fingers over the symbols that were clearly carved into the wood.) What in the hell…(He couldn't even begin to comprehend what this was or what it even meant. But he did know one thing about it,) this is fresh and was done recently; this couldn't be more than a couple hours old if that.

(Jaxx memorized the symbols, as millions of questions started to bombarding him. He slid the mat back over, covering these mysterious symbols back up. Jaxx shook his head as he turned around, and leaned against Coulson's desk. ) "*under his breath, to himself* What the hell is going on here Coulson?"

Trust…it's the ever-fading currency of this modern age. Jaxx had trusted others before, each to a varying degree, but there had only been one person with whom he had a near unwavering loyalty and trust towards, and that was Coulson. Now, Jaxx wouldn't follow just anyone so blindly into one fight after the next; he did so for Coulson because they both seemingly had the same ideals, the same convictions as the other. It was these same convictions that led Jaxx to becoming a marine. Conviction is a fickle-thing; it can drive you to do wondrous things, or it could lead you down the path to madness. But that trust he had felt towards Coulson had now changed; Jaxx knew it when he saw Coulson, for the first time since Fury brought him on for the Tesseract project, and he could feel that something was off.

Jaxx couldn't judge Coulson for keeping secrets from him, because in truth; he himself has been keeping it certain secrets from his friend. No, what bothered him was that whatever the secret is, it's clearly affecting him both physically and mentally. Not everyone could see it, or if they did they didn't want to, but Jaxx he had; this made it difficult for Jaxx to trust Coulson's true intent. He wondered if Coulson was even in his right frame of mind, or if the serum had started to warp his mind too, like it did to John Garrett. He would have to keep vigilant, and watch him carefully, but eventually there would be a confrontation. This whole situation just became a whole lot more complicated.

19 minutes later

Elevator to Hanger Bay

The three of them stood there in utter silence, as they took the elevator down to the hanger. Trip seemed the calmest out of the bunch, of course he was a Specialist; it was what he was trained for, but no amount of training could have prepared him for what was waiting for them. Skye, even though she has been part of the team since day one and even knowing the threat that Hydra posed if they recreated the serum; underneath it all, she was still as curious and excited for awaits her. Simmons was focused solely on one goal and one goal only; to find Dr. Streiten and use his research to help save Fitz, no matter the cost.

In her mind, this wasn't a scientific exploration or even a medical one, no; this was about saving the life of a fellow agent, a friend, of…someone who means the world to her. The elevator chimed, and seconds later the door opened; one by one, they all step out and head towards the ride that would take them to their final objective.

Triplett

Now that's something new you don't see every day. I've never seen an aircraft like that before, and where the hell did Sword-guy get it? (The three of them, Skye, Simmons, and Trip himself, stand there staring at it with amazement in their eyes. Well, everyone except Skye who had already flew in it previously.*See Ch. 3 pt. 2 A Debt to be Paid) "It's pretty sweet ride, huh?" I look over at Skye, to see her smiling. (He looks back at the aircraft, the feel of curiosity setting in.) "Where the hell did you guys picks this thing up?"

I notice Simmons walking forward, setting down her backpack and other supplies and equipment. She takes a closer look, and then she starts touching it. After about a minute, I see her eyes widen and shock shoot across her face. "Are you okay girl?" I ask, and she just spins around wearing that same shocked expression. "Do you two, have any idea what this is?" no, but obviously from her tone, she does.

(Skye shrugs, knowing the answer as well.) "It's the Iron Wing VX-32. Designed and fabricated by Howard Stark." Wow…I'm almost speechless. It's not like Skye to know something like that. (He looks over at Simmons, who seemed impressed by Skye's knowledge.) "Exactly right, and did you know that it has-" (Skye interrupts her,) "Three duel-propulsion jet engines, can travel faster-than-sound and; has a highly dense metal alloy frame similar to those used on submarines during World War 2." Once again, I'm speechless. Where is she getting this information from?

(Simmons looks even more impressed than before.) "That's very good Skye, very good." Simmons smiles a little, and it's nice to see her smile again; it has been way too long. (He turns to Skye, looking a little bit more than curious,) "How did you know all that?" Skye looks at me and even before she opens her mouth, I can tell what comes next. "I have more than just coding up in here *points to her head* I also have mad knowledge skills. Uh huh, believe it." Riiight. I know you better than that girl, so do you honestly expect me to believe that? "Seriously, where did you learn that?"

"From Coulson," I turn to see Jaxx stepping off the plane, a little bit of grease smeared on his face and hands. "And me of course." I'd figure as much, plus it's more believable than, well, what Skye just said.

Skye

(Skye looked over at Jaxx, irritated.) You couldn't help yourself could you? "Well, it's true." Says you looking all innocent and…greasy. He signals all of us to come aboard, and of course, I'm the first one on. Simmons follows me and Trip looks back at the plane before coming aboard. Everyone drops their gear, and not soon after that look of scientific curiosity shoots across her face. Trips seems to admire the craftsmanship of this lunk of bolts, while Simmons looks around at some of the wiring; even touching a few, "This is amazing, I mean, the time it took to rebuild this must have been *gasps in shock, as she looks down at an open panel,* is that what I think it is?"

She kneels down next to some open panel in the floor. Well, whatever she's looking at certainly has her undivided attention. She looks up briefly, with excitement plastered all over her face, "Agent Triplett, come take a look at this." (Trip finishes dropping off the gear, and then walks over to where Simmons is, and slowing starts to kneel.) "No way; is that what I think it is?" Well crap, now I'm curious, *sighs* it's probably some mechanical doo-hicky.

(She drops her bags and walks over to where the other two are,) Okay, I have no idea what I'm supposed to be looking at. Simmons looks up at me briefly, with that same look of excitement as before, "I can't believe it; I never thought I'd actually see one," all I can do is just give a half-assed smile and nod; seeing as how I still don't know what she's talking about. So, just go with it Skye, "Yea, I know right, I can't believe it either. *sarcastic raises her hands in victory* Yay."

(Simmons and Trip both turn around at look up at her,) Great, now I feel like the dorky kid at the back of the class who just got caught picking his nose, again. "You have no idea what we're talking about, do ya girl?" Gee, ya think Trip, "*scoffs nervously* Of course I know what you're talking about; you two are talking about…that…blue glowing umm…doo-hicky thing there. *points to a large cylinder with glowing blue lights and wires coming off it*." The two of them share a look, and then they look back at me, again. "Skye, you don't even know what that is, do you?" Oh Simmons, "*Scoffs* Uh yea, it's the umm…undertake…manifold *appears nervous and starts lowering her voice* flux capacitor thing?"

Simmons shakes her head, and Trip just looks on and shows a smile, "Not even close girl." I kinda figured that Trip from the look the two of you was giving me. "It's a plane Skye, not a DeLorean." (Everyone turns and looks behind them, to see Jaxx coming out of the cockpit. He then walks over to where they are and kneels down across from Skye.) "And that is high-powered twin charged super-capacitor." "HA! I was right, eat that sucka's." (Everyone looks at her once again, this time with a look of narcissism.)

"Well I was." Sort of, I mean I at least got the capacitor part right, so that should count for something? Jaxx shakes his head and looks back at the super twin-charged whatcha-call-it, "Yea well, this capacitor allows us to travel at Mach 2 while still being able to maintain aerial maneuverability. It does not; allow us to travel back in time." Maybe not, but that would be so freakin sweet, "But that would be really freakin sweet though," did he just, he literally just said what I did, or thought.

Simmons stands up, and looks just excited and shocked at the same time. "Where does Director Coulson find these vintage pieces?" Yea, except it wasn't Coulson who found this, "Actually, it's-" (Coulson interrupts) "Its Jaxx's agent Simmons," How the hell do they keep doing that, every freakin time. (Coulson walks up the ramp, carrying only a single duffle bag and wearing his usual attire including,) Wow, it's been a while since I've seen him wear those shades.

He whips off those shades and stuffs them inside his jacket pocket, meanwhile (Simmons turns to Jaxx, looking astounded,) Jaxx just stands there looking smug, grinning from ear to ear. Coulson stuffs his gear with the others, after which he asks "Everyone all set?"

Simmons

To be honest, I've never been more eager to do something so reckless since I joined Coulson's team. Director Coulson turns to Skye first, no doubt wanting a status report on that thumb drive they found, "Skye how's everything on your end?" she stands there, with her laptop closed in front of her, not at all looking like the little outcast we picked up in New York so long ago. "I have my decryption algorithm going through every file on the drive and backing it up too our local network. It should be fully decrypted by the time we get back."

Skye, she's always been a clever girl. "I've also hacked into a couple of satellites that are in orbit; one will be over the coordinates in 15 minutes. By that time I should have geo-thermal imaging up and running." That's very impressive, very. Coulson nods, and despite not showing it, I'm sure he's very appreciative, and now the Director turns to Trip, as it is his turn. "Trip, what do you have for us?"

I couldn't be more glad to have Trip coming with us; besides the fact that he's good company, I know for a fact that he can handle most anything that Hydra could possibly throw our way…I hope. "A little bit of everything sir. (Grabs one of the bags, unzips it and shows what's inside,) I've got a dozen or so I.C.E.R's, but just in case; I've brought along with a few Smith & Wesson M&P's, a couple M1A1's."

(Triplett zips the bag back up and stows it with the other gear, before returning.) Coulson looks pleased, but then again it's hard to tell what he's actually thinking. "And the other thing?" (Simmons and Skye appear confused, but Trip and Jaxx on the other hand,) "I've got enough semtex to take out a small building sir." Damn, I should've known that, it was the Director's plan from the start; well, that just means that I've got to fleet-of-foot in finding what I'm looking for.

(Coulson nods,) "Good, let's hope it's enough. Simmons," oh bugger. Okay girl, just focus on the task at hand, and whatever you do, don't try to lie; although if I'm being honest I think that I'm getting better at it. "How are our medical supplies?" Honestly, they could be better, but I'm sure he wants the good news, not the bad. "All stocked up on bandages, morphine and the like. But honestly sir; since we don't know exactly what we're walking into, I'm not sure if it's enough."

Damnit girl, I should've stopped before saying that, but then again if I did then would think that I was holding something back which would've led him to asking questions which-"Well, hopefully we won't have to worry about that." Thank god for Jaxx, it almost as if he could my thoughts starting to scramble my mind. This is going to be tougher than I could've imagined, but then again; this day couldn't get any worse, right?

Jaxx

It's been a long while, but it looks like some things never change. Of course, some things have; "Jaxx, is she ready to fly?" You bet your Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. ass it is. "She's fueled up, and ready. Just say the word." I see him give a hint of a smile, "Everyone, secure your gear. It's time for a road trip." I thought you'd never as-"Hold it!" (Everyone stops, Coulson turns around and sees none other than agent Melinda May standing at the base of the ramp and standing beside her, agent Alphonso Mackenzie. Everyone on the plane is looking on, some shocked and a few more than terrified at the combination of annoyance and aggravation plastered on Agent May's face. Jaxx was neither.)

(Simultaneously Coulson, Simmons, Triplett, Skye, and Jaxx mutter under their breaths,) "Aww crap." (Coulson walks down the ramp, coming face to face with his irritated number 1, while the others just stood there, watching and waiting.) Damnit Coul, we don't have time for this. (He lets out a sigh, which just so happens to catch the attention of both Simmons and Skye, prompting the former hacktivist to ask,) "What's up with you Mr. tall-pale-and-grumpy?"

(He looks over at her, looking a little less irritated than agent May, and answers) "I'm not grumpy," (Simmons replies) "Actually you do seem to be a bit grumpy. Have you eaten anything today?" Great, just great, now Simmons is trying to play mother hen. "I'm not grumpy, and I haven't had the time to eat Sims," "*scoffs* Well see, that's why your so grumpy, you haven't eaten anything all day, ohh you poor thing." Just make it stop, please make it stop. "I'm fine it's just that-" it's just that I'm trying to listen in on Coulson and May's conversation, but the two of you are not letting me focus.

(A few seconds later, Coulson comes walking back up the ramp, an even sterner look than before plastered on his face. One which everyone seemed to notice,) "Let's get this show on the road." There's something off, he seems almost out of it. "Everything good here AC?" I don't know why you even bother to ask Skye, I mean; it's not like he's going to tell her the truth or anything. It's not his style, as he says. "We're good," Coulson, we are far from good my friend; we are galaxies far far away, from good.

Regardless, we need to move, like 20 minutes ago. (Jaxx says) "Alright everyone, stow your gear and strap in, we're off in 2."

Jaxx nods to everyone before shuffling off to the cockpit to get strapped in. He flipped a few switches and checked the gauges, making sure all systems were functioning proper; meanwhile everyone checked and secured they're gear for the long trip ahead. After that, Skye and Coulson secure themselves a pair of seats next to each other, while Triplett and Simmons sat adjacent. Once everyone fastened themselves, Jaxx flipped a couple of switches, closing the ramp. Coulson turned and looked to his left; the last thing he saw as the ramp slowly closed, was a distinct look of concern in agent May's eyes. The last time he saw that look was seconds before they lost contact with their operations team during the Bahrain incident. That looks stuck with him even after all this time, and it would be the last thing he would see of her as the ramp sealed shut.

Jaxx flipped a couple more switches, the lights turning from red to green, before asking the control officer for clearance to launch. Seconds quickly passed by, and with each second that passed, Jaxx grew more anxious. Agent May was now acting director, and her first instinct was to halt the takeoff, due in no small part to the fact that her team was going into enemy waters, and unknown territory, blind. But she also knew how much this mission means to both Coulson and Skye, as well as how dangerous it would be to have that serum out there in the world. She knew Coulson had been acting strange these last few weeks, but right now she had two choices, delay the mission until further Intel was gathered and risk the dangers of such a drug being introduced into hydra, or…

She placed her fingers on her left ear, and with contempt in her voice she said to the operator, "They are a go operator." The operator gave Jaxx the go ahead and he proceeded to initiate takeoff protocol. The bay doors above opened, and he activated the vertical takeoff thrusters. Once he was out of the compound and the rays from the sun hit his face, he started to have a disturbing yet, familiar feeling, one that he hadn't felt in a long time. The first time he felt it, was over 6 years ago, right before a terrible event occurred. He would never tell anyone the truth about what he really felt, not Coulson and definitely not Simmons, but it was that day that defined who he wanted to be. Today however, he felt only the most basic of emotions and one he had hoped never to feel again…he was afraid.

1 hour 15 minutes, Flying over Pacific Ocean

It had been well over an hour since they had left the Playground and despite his best efforts, he just couldn't shake this feeling of uncertainty and doubt. He had tried to focus on the mission at hand, but doing so only seemed to make things even worse, so he tried other approaches. He constantly checked the gauges, hoping that doing so would take his mind off of these things. Unfortunately after the first few times, he noticed that he had caught the questioning gaze of a certain S.H.I.E.L.D. Director; who probably wondered if there was some sort of malfunction in the gauges, why else would Jaxx be constantly checking them.

He quickly stopped that so as to avoid any unfounded concerns from his passengers, but soon enough that feeling crept back into his mind. It seemed as though everything he had tried only seemed to make it worse. Even the occasional daydream fantasy involving a certain cute little hacktivist named Skye, and a very nice hotel room, seemed to fade away as fear and uncertainty somehow managed to creep its way back in. The only thing that seemed to keep him together was flying his most coveted possession, Iron Wing. Sometimes, he would close his eyes and dream that he could fly without the Iron Wing, and that he would soar through the skies; the feel of the cool wind pushing against his face and seeing the clouds zoom past.

He eventually stopped and shot straight up into the air hovering just above the clouds; in the dream, he would close his eyes and feel the sun's warming rays against his face, and at last he would feel at peace. Until suddenly something stirred him from his dream; it felt as though someone or something was touching his shoulder, calling out to him Jaxx, Jaxx are you okay? Jaxx opens his eyes, awakening from a dream that he had no idea that he was having. He turned to his right and saw Coulson's hand on his shoulder, and when he looked up he saw a slight concern in his friend's eyes, concern for him perhaps…

Coulson

"Everything good up here?" (Jaxx looked bewildered, as if he just realized where he is. His eyes flutter a bit, trying to not look out of it, before replying.) "Yea, yea everything is good Coul. Nothing but clear skies." I don't think that I've ever seen him like this. He seems off, like his mind is someplace else, and I can relate. But I'm barely keeping myself together here, that's why I need him to stay focused, just in case, I can't.

"Good, good. What's our ETA?" he looks down at the GPS scanner, "About 30 minutes…15 if I max out the thrusters and go to Mach 2. But if I push it too much, we might drain the fuel cells or the engines might give out. Whatever the case it's your call." It's a miracle that we've made it this far in this plane, a plane that, up until a few hours ago, wasn't supposed to exist. We shouldn't push this thing too much, but if we don't get there quick enough, Dr. Streiten is as good as dead. Man, its times like these that I miss the Bus, but we work with what we've got, so, yeah.

I look at Jaxx and nod, "Do it." he gives a nod, "Roger that, going Mach 2 in three, two, one…" (Jaxx flips a couple of switches, causing the ship to fly faster and faster until a booming sound from the outside of the plane echoes inside.) That's it? I expected, I don't know, something other than my ears popping. "What the hell was that?" (Skye asks. Coulson turns around and sees the looking curiously around, wondering what that sound was. Coulson walks forward,) "Mach 2." From their expressions, I can't pick who looks more shocked out of the three.

Regardless, we need to go over all of our data, and decide how to move forward. (Coulson turns around,) "Jaxx, when your free," (Jaxx nods, and flips the auto-pilot switch, then unbuckles himself and shuffles out of the cockpit. Afterwards, Jaxx and Coulson walk over to Skye, Simmons, and Trip who are looking over the Intel and data that has been collected so far.) "Okay people, we're about 15 minutes out from the target's location… *looks over at Jaxx, who shrugs and tilts his hand back and forth. Looks back at the others* …give or take."

"So, that gives us time to go over the data and come up with a plan. So, who wants to go first?"

Skye

Please, please don't pick me first. (Coulson says) "Skye," Crap, crappity crap-crap. "Did you find anything from the satellite images?" (Skye looks down at her tablet) "Trees AC, miles and miles of trees. There were only a few satellites in the region and none showed anything out of the ordinary." I expected a look of disappointment from AC, instead he just stands there, "Why do I feel that there's a but?" Oh AC, you know me so well, "But, after coming up with notta on the satellite front I took another look at the USB drive you guys found. (Skye taps on her tablet then turns it around, showing it to Coulson and the others,) And I found something."

(Coulson folds his arms across his chest, and leans in for a closer look,) "What am I looking at?" well AC, "It's thermal imaging of the area, and you see this area here, *she enlarges a specific area on the tablet*" Coulson leans back, "What about it Skye?" C'mon Simmons, you're the scientist here, and you can't see-"It's cold…" (Skye smiles and exclaims) "Exactly.!" (Trip and Simmons have yet to catch up to the answer, one which sits right in front of their faces,) "I don't get it?" Seriously Trip, (Jaxx steps forward, and tries to explain exactly what Skye is trying to say,) "What she's saying, is that there's no reason why there should be a cold spot there, (points to the tablet screen) dead-center in the jungle. That place should be lighting up like a Christmas tree."

Finally, someone other than AC knows what I'm saying, "Exactly, but this area here *taps on the screen* has no heat signature I mean like, none what-so-ever." Everyone looks a little less confused, especially Trip, "Is that even possible?" good question Trip, and honestly I have no freakin clue…(Coulson states) "It's possible. Before Hydra's attack, S.H.I.E.L.D. had scientists and engineers working on ways to hide our bases from various forms of thermal imaging." (Jaxx takes a step forward and replies) "Looks like Hydra took one from your playbook." I hand Coulson the tablet, and he takes a closer look at it.

"Were you able to get anything else Skye?" I wish AC, "Unfortunately no, other than the coordinates and these images there's nothing. Sorry AC," he looks up from the tablet and I know exactly what he's going to say before he even says it, "Don't apologize, you did great. And now we know exactly where to look." He hands me back the tablet and gives me a smile, one that I don't think I deserve, but I do appreciate.

(A loud alarm starts going off, which causes everyone to freeze, and their muscles to tighten. Jaxx turns and rushes back to the cockpit, looking frantically at the gauges. Coulson turns to him, a look of concern plastered across his face,) "Jaxx, what is it!?" Well, if that alarm blaring is any indication AC, I'm guessing it's anything but good news. (Jaxx starts flipping switches and manages to shut off the alarm, after which he rushes back to the others, shuffling Coulson aside. He kneels down and removes a panel; immediately sparks start shooting up and out, but once it stops he leans in, past the smoke puffing out, for a closer look.)

"Damn, we got a problem." Not exactly what any of us wanted to hear Jaxx; I see his back tighten, which means that it's really, really bad. AC kneels down next to him, "How bad is it?" Jaxx sits up, and gives AC a concerned, measuring look, "One of the main fuel conductors has ruptured, which leaked out coolant onto the main turbo capacitor, causing it to rupture. Needless to say, it's not good." AC stares back at him, "Define not good?"

(Jaxx imitates the plane blowing to pieces using his hands and making explosion noises.) I really don't like his version of charades, I really don't. (Coulson responds) "Thanks for the visual. Can you fix it?" Jaxx shakes his head, "Maybe, but not while we're in the air." (Suddenly, a buzzing alarm started coming from the cockpit, Coulson lets out a heavy sigh the asks) "For crying out loud, can't we get a break?"

Trip rushes to the cockpit and it only takes him a second to find yet another problem. He turns around looking calm and cool. Maybe it's not so bad, (Trip says) "Sir it's bad," of course it's bad, stupid piece of vintage junk. (Trip comes out of the cockpit, and explains further) "We're losing altitude, fast." Everyone could hear AC sigh, "What's the time frame?" (Coulson asks) Trip shakes his head, "3 maybe 4 minutes til we splash down." (Coulson crosses his arms, going through their options. He looks down at Jaxx and asks) "How far away are we from the coordinates?" Jaxx stands up, and once again gives him measured look, "8 minutes." Not good, very not good. I really miss the bus. (Coulson continues thinking, trying to find any scenario where they make it.)

"*under his breath* There has to be someway…" despite his best efforts, I can still hear ya AC. Don't worry, we'll figure a way out of this, we always do, right? (With the minutes flying by, and a crash or explosion nearly imminent, everyone started to fret, everyone except Jaxx, who may have come up with a plan to save the day.) "I may have something, but it's a long shot." At this point Jaxx, we're not very choosey. (Coulson un-crosses his arms and asks) "Whatever it is, do it."

Jaxx nods and turns to Trip, "I need you in the cockpit, ready to fly." Trip doesn't say a word, and doesn't hesitant, even for a second and rushes back into the cockpit. Jaxx turns to me and I can feel my muscles tense up, "Skye I need you up front with Trip, and get ready to flip the switch to transfer the main power to the backups and switch over the fuel reserves, got it?" Some yeah, "Flip switches, backups, fuel, got it!" I brush past him and shimmy into the co-pilots seat. I look over at Trip who snaps his head a little, "Buckle up."

Yea right, it's not like I don't wanna be tied down to a seat if we crash into the water or anything. I fidget around with the buckles, until I finally manage to snap them together. Trip starts to run me through which switches I need to flip and in what order. Thank god he knows what's going on because I sure as hell don't. I look back to see Jaxx tearing up some cables from the floor panels, I can't tell exactly what he's doing; it's almost like he's Frankenstein-ing various wires together. Coulson helps as best he can, but he's no engineer; Simmons seems to understand what Jaxx is attempting to do which means hopefully whatever his plan is will actually work. God…I really miss the bus.