Title: The Wildcards Reshuffle the Deck
Summary: The Wildcards always come back together no matter what
timeline: this is my conclusion of the series finale 'tell our Mom's we did our best'. This story flips back
to what happened to Shane and Vanessa and back to the present which is a year later with Nathan and the others.
Shenadoah, Iowa
June, 2065
Lieutenant Colonel T.C. McQueen (retired) stood on the porch of the small farmhouse
watching the sun set below the rows of corn. How did he end up here? He still didn't
know. After being injured in the explosion on the Saratoga a year ago they had
shipped him home.
A piece of metal from one of the conference tables had wedged itself into one of the
lower vertebrae of his spinal cord. The blast itself had taken off the lower half of his left
technology how it was they could've operated and removed it, but since he was
an InVitro they didn't want to risk his addiction to pain killers. Since the piece of metal
wasn't causing any major damage to his body they had left it there and sent him home
with an Honorable discharge, a medal and a wooden leg, so to speak.
With part of his pension he had bought this place on a whim. Remembering hearing
one of the instructors at the InVitro facility talk about his Grandfather's farm in Iowa
and how it had always been a place of peace for him.
McQueen ran a weary hand over his face before looking up at the stars. Hell he'd give
this place up in a second if it meant he could be back on the Saratoga fighting the
Chigs. Back with the 58th.
Ty walked east and sat down in the porch swing that had come with the house. His
heart heavy as he thought of those of the 58th who had been killed trying to bring the
Colonists home. God, he still couldn't believe they were gone. Wang, Vansen,
Damphoose.
He'd never forget the look on Nathan West's face when he first saw the young
Lieutenant after he had learned of their deaths. McQueen stood again and leaned
against the railing. He often wondered about West. Where he was. How he was
handling the loss of his friends.
Glen Ross had tried to keep him updated on West for a few months after the peace
talk fiasco. Then the War had gotten worse and Ross's calls became fewer and fewer.
Ty tried to keep an eye on West on his own with the few contacts he had left, but he
lost track of Nathan after he was transferred off the Saratoga.
As for Cooper Hawkes, well McQueen still received regular letters from him. With his
sentence up and the loss of so many of his friends Hawkes had opted for Earthside
duty. Last Ty had heard Cooper was stationed in Miami at the Vitro facility there.
Fighting the Chigs best he could from this far away and being involved in the Vitro
movement for equal rights in the military. McQueen turned away from the railing and
opened the screen door, time to fix something to eat then check on the horses.
A headlight splashed across the screen door catching his attention. McQueen turned
seeing a lone figure on a motorcycle coming up the gravel driveway. Not expecting
company, Ty's hand instinctively reached down for a gun. His hand closed around air
and he made a fist in frustration. Some habits were hard to break.
As soon as the driver dismounted from the bike, he knew who it was.
"Hawkes." Ty greeted the young man stepping down from the porch, "What brings you to this neck
of the woods?"
Cooper Hawkes took off his black helmet and placed it on the left handle. Brown hair
fell forward as he turned to face his former commanding officer.
"Hello, Colonel." Hawkes replied shaking the older man's hand.
McQueen smiled, "We've been through this, Cooper. You're not under my command
any more you can call me Ty."
Cooper smiled,
"Whatever you say, Colonel." He replied. Knowing he could be less formal but still called McQueen Colonel out of respect.
McQueen gestured to the farm house,"Come on in. I was just about to fix something to
eat."
"Good I'm starved." Cooper in a whispered voice he said, "I have a
message from Nathan."
McQueen stopped on the porch and stared at him, "Is it that bad out there that he
couldn't trust the vidphone or a secured channel?"
Hawkes nodded, his brown eyes concerned, "I'm afraid so. I'll explain it all inside,
never know who could be listening."
McQueen glanced around but saw nothing but corn, "Getting a little paranoid are we
Hawkes?"
Cooper smiled sadly, "I wish I was paranoid. Then this whole thing would make
sense."
University of Arizona Research Hospital
Tucson, Arizona
Doctor Kylen Celina glanced up from her computer screen as a red haired male intern
poked his head into her office.
"What is it, Tom?"
Tom Halloway smiled, holding a small package wrapped in brown paper, "This just
came from you."
Kylen stood and took the package from the young intern, "Thanks,Tom."
"No problem." The young man replied leaving her alone to open the package.
Kylen at first thought it was some research equipment she had ordered then she saw
Nathan West's familiar scrawl. Her heart skipped a beat as her fingers struggled with
the tape that bonded the paper together. She had only heard from Nathan once since
her rescue from the Chigs. She knew that was because of the War, but a part of her
had always thought it was because of the loss of his friends. That seeing her reminded
him too much of what he had lost that day.
The paper finally gave way allowing a small object wrapped tightly in yellow paper to
tumble into her hand. From the square shape she knew what it was. Confirming her
suspicions her thumb accidentally pressed the button on the lower half of the picture
frame. Her own voice greeted her. I believe in all of you.
Finally the photo tag was free and she held it up to the light. Gently tracing the outline
of Nathan's face. He looked so young in this photo. She had been shocked at how
'old' Nathan had become when she saw him on the Saratoga. The war had changed
him greatly she could tell. She could only pray it was for the better. That the loss of too
many friends and crew mates hadn't turned his gentle soul into a bitter and cynical one.
Kylen was about to place the photo on her desk when she saw the picture slip from its
frame a little. With one finger she tried to straighten the photo, but there seemed to be
something behind it, obstructing her task. Curious, the young blonde woman took the
photo out of its frame and saw a tightly folded piece of white notebook paper.
With slightly shaking hands she gently unfolded it and began to read:
My Dearest Kylen,
I apologize for not keeping in touch with you more often, but the War has gotten so
much worse this last year I barely have time to think let alone have any free time to
write.
I need a favor from you. I know its a lot to ask of you to leave your position in Arizona
since you finally got your life back after it was stolen by the Chigs. You know I
wouldn't ask unless I had no one else to trust.
Please take a few weeks off and go to Iowa. McQueen has a farm there. Hawkes
should already be there and he'll fill both of you in with what I have in mind.
Kylen, if you trust my love, do this. But please do not tell anyone. And I mean anyone
of where you are going or why. Your life as well as millions of others is at stake.
I appreciate this more than you will every know, my love. Be safe and keep an eye on
the others for me.
All my Love,
Captain Nathan West
U.S.S. Franklin Roosevelt
A proud member of the 58th squadron
The Wildcards will live forever
Kylen stared at the letter for several moments absorbing what Nathan had asked of
her. She would do what he asked without hesitation. She had found out after she
returned to Earth that Nathan had risked his career as well as his life several times to
look for her. Following whatever lead he could find. He never gave up on her. She had
loved him more than ever for that. She carefully folded the letter and placed in the
pockets of her khaki pants. Something jangled in the packaging paper and she turned it
upside down. The metal chain tumbled into her lap. With a smile she threaded it
through the hole on the top of the photo tag and clasped it behind her neck. Once the
necklace was in place she picked up the receiver of her desk phone. Glancing at her
rolodex she dialed her supervisor.
"Kay? Its Kylen Celina. I'm sorry to do this to you on such short notice but I just
received a call from my sister. It seems my Aunt is critically ill. I may be gone several
weeks...my sister and I are the only family she has left."
As she listened to Kay Wilson, Kylen absently twisted the phone cord around her
fingers, "Thank you so much for understanding. I'll call you as soon as I know what's
going on."
Ending her conversation with her boss Kylen hit the disconnection switch with her
finger and dialed a new number for the airlines. She had no idea when Nathan had
wrote that letter since it wasn't dated. She only hoped she could get to Iowa in time.
U.S.S. Franklin Roosevelt
First American fleet
Chig territory 0:427 a.m
Captain Nathan West walked into the deserted recreation lounge. As he stared out at
the pale green planet he knew he should sleep. He just couldn't. He had been trying
fitfully for the last four hours. Nathan sank down into one of the plush leather chairs
next to the huge plate glass windows. The nightmares had started on the anniversary of
the peace talk fiasco. The anniversary of the deaths of his friends. Hell the Wildcards
had been more than his friends, they had been his family. Now there were two. Every
time he was out in the heat of battle with his new squadron the 44th, he couldn't help
but think of his fallen comrades. Half the time he had to catch himself before he called
one of his wingman by the names of Vansen, Phoose or Wang. Hell he had even called
Johnson, Hawkes by mistake once.
Nathan was still, even a year later, mad as hell that the PTB (Powers that Be) didn't
allow the Saratoga to hold a memorial service for them. The area was too volatile for a
memorial service they had said. It was too much of a risk to hold the Saratoga there
for a funeral when she was needed elsewhere.
A smile curled at Nathan's lips as he remembered watching Commodore Glen Ross
fight Admiral Tilson tooth and nail. Ross had given the older man hell but Tilson still
outranked him. The Saratoga had left that area of space without even a recorded
playing of Taps.
Nathan stood and began to pace the small area. Wang, Phoose and Shane deserved a
hell of a lot more than that. The Wildcards were the best unit in the Marine core and
this was how they repaid them? It had been an honest mistake what had happened on
the planet. Anyone of the holier than thou brass would've done the same thing the 58th
did. They had honestly thought that it was a new species of life that was going to be
destroyed by Roundhammer if they didn't warn it. They had never seen a Chig without
armor before how the hell where they supposed to know what it looked like. Nathan
still thought the Brass was punishing the 58th for that mistake by not allowing the
Saratoga time to grieve for the fallen Wildcards.
A month later was the soonest he could get leave. Even with that Ross had pulled ever
string in the book to get it for him. With that leave Nathan took one of the
spacefighters and went back to the area of space where the battle had occurred. He
had tried several times to get in touch with Hawkes to no avail. The Chigs had come
up with a new way to scramble outgoing signals.
Before he had left the Saratoga he had rigged a speaker on the outside of the plane.
Looking at the planet that had claimed Vansen and Phoose's life he had turned the
speaker on. He opened a deck of playing cards and placed it on the dash board.
The solemn notes of Taps began to fill the cold vacuum of space. Nathan raised his
hand in salute and held it there a long time after the song was completed. Tears ran
freely down his face as he said goodbye to his friends.
"The Wild Cards will live on." He had vowed to his friends, "I will not let them forget
us. I promise you that."
The alert siren snapped Nathan back to the present reality. With a sigh he walked over
to the com unit and punched in an identification code. "All members of the 44th marine
squadron must assemble immediately in the War room for debriefing."
So much for sleep, Nathan thought wearily as he straightened the collar of his uniform.
He thought briefly of Kylen and prayed that she had gotten his package and was on
her way to Iowa.
The horrors he had seen in the last year needed to be addressed and brought to the
public's attention. But he didn't have enough clout to do that so he hoped with the
reinforcements he was bringing in they would be able to bring some of these secrets to
light.
Operation: Homeward Bound
Last day of May, 2064
The shockwave from the Chig weapon had thrown Lieutenant Paul Wang to the floor.
He momentarily thought of getting up. Of firing his weapon till the last moment. Instead
Paul curled up in a ball and closed his eyes waiting for the inevitable.
It seemed like the injured cargo hold tumbled through space for hours, slowly leaking
precious oxygen. Silence made Paul open his eyes. The Chigs had stopped firing. He
was surprised they hadn't finished him off.
A white dot of light caught Paul's attention. It seemed to be slowly moving toward is it. Paul thought swallowing a wave of panic, My jig's up. I'm going to the great stadium in the sky. However, as he focused on the dot of light Paul released it wasn't an Angel. He fought
to curb the sudden hope he was feeling. The dot of light looked to be coming from the control panel inside a life pod.
Paul scrambled to his feet, sliding more than running over to the far wall of the cargo hold. Sure enough barely visible in the darkness was the hatch to an escape pod. Sending off a silent prayer Paul activated a switch to the left of the door. Several tense
seconds later it slid open welcoming Paul inside. Paul raced inside thanking whoever the genius was who had thought of having the escape pods run on their own knew his time was short so there would be no time for precise calculations. Paul hit the eject button and prayed that the pod wouldn't burn up in the planet's atmosphere. Seconds after the pod was floating free of the cargo hold Paul had to shield his eyes. The cargo hold he had been in minutes before exploded in a million pieces.
Shenadoah, Iowa
June, 2065
"That's all he said?" McQueen asked turning around in the farmhouse's living room to
face Hawkes.
Cooper Hawkes nodded, "He sent me a sealed envelope. I have instructions not to
open it until this mystery person gets here."
Steam rising from a pot of water on the stove caught McQueen's attention. He quickly
walked over and turned the black knob to a lower number. Absently he picked up a
box of pasta noodles and emptied half the contents into the gray pot.
Ty picked up a wooden spoon before asking, "You have no idea who this other
person is?"
Cooper smiled walking over to the kitchen counter that housed the stove and a small
cutting board, "I know who it is."
Realization dawned in McQueen's blue eyes as he glanced up from the pot of noodles,
"Kylen." He said softly.
Hawkes nodded, "She's the only other person West would trust. His brother's dead.
The three of us are the only surviving members..." Cooper turned his head quickly
as his voice started to quiver.
McQueen placed a metal lid on the pot and walked around the counter placing a
supportive hand on the young man's shoulder, "How are you doing with all of this?"
Cooper sat down in the oak rocking chair, finally looking at McQueen with haunted
eyes, "Does it ever go away?"
Ty tilted his head, not quite understanding, "What?"
Hawkes jumped to his feet, walking over to the bay window that looked out over the
corn fields, "The pain." He replied in a whisper, "I see their faces every time I close my
eyes at night. I think of them every minute that I'm awake."
McQueen sat down in a straight backed blue cushioned chair next to the fireplace, "So
do I, Hawkes. All I can tell you is that it gets easier with time."
Cooper stared at the older man, "It's been a year. I thought by now it would be
better."
McQueen stood and walked over to the mantle. Sitting on top was a polished maple
box, about the size of an old fashioned jewelry box. Ty lifted the lid and took out a
square wooden object. Silently he handed it to Hawkes. Cooper took the object from
McQueen. Shane Vansen's face stared back at him. It was a picture of her in full dress
uniform standing next to her sister and niece.
"Last Christmas was the soonest I was able to go visit them." McQueen explained
quietly, "They were hit pretty hard by Shane's death but they seem to be coping. I
thought you might get more use out of that photo than I could."
Cooper nodded his right hand gently tracing the outline's of Shane's face. "Thank you,
Colonel. I had almost forgotten how pretty she was."
McQueen heard the sound of a engine coming up the driveway and glanced out the
front door, "Sounds like our mystery guest is about to sign in."
Cooper stared at him, "What?"
Ty shook his head, "Never mind." He replied as he walked out onto the porch.
Operation: Homeward Bound
Chig Territory
Last week of May, 2064
Captain Shane Vansen glanced at her companion with envy. Vanessa Damphoose
would never feel pain when the injured cockpit crashed onto the planet. Shane wished
she were that lucky. As the cockpit fell farther into the planet's atmosphere she
wondered if the convoy made it back to the Saratoga in one piece. She prayed that it
had. That all her friends had made it back alive.
Shane hoped they had. That Nathan West finally had his happy ending with Kylen. Her
friend deserved that. She felt the intense heat and saw the metal start to turn orange.
Shane closed her eyes and leaned back against the seat knowing this was one fight she
had lost.
USS Franklin Roosevelt
Chig Territory
June, 2065
Captain Nathan West walked into the conference room and took a seat among the
fellow members of his squadron. The 44th was made up of four men and two women.
"Ten-Hu!"
The men and women immediately jumped to their feet, coming to attention.
A tall sandy haired man in his late forties crossed to the center of the room,"Be
seated."
Admiral Paul Tilson cleared his throat as he faced the group of twenty men and women
under his command, "I apologize for calling this meeting at this ungodly hour of the
morning but as you all know this War has no time clock."
The Admiral turned his brown gaze to face Nathan, "As you all know the 44th lost
their commanding officer on the last mission to Upeg. Colonel Mark Williams was a
good friend and more importantly a good officer. He will be missed greatly."
The room fell into a solemn silence as Tilson allowed a moment of remembrance.
Paul Tilson cleared his throat, "Lieutenant Colonel John Oakes will take his place." The
Admiral began raising his hand toward the doorway," Colonel, please tell the 44th
what they're next mission is."
Nathan West thought he was seeing things. When Tilson had said the name John
Oakes, Nathan had written it off as the fact it was possible that two people could have
the same name. Now Nathan was staring at his commanding officer. The man who had
saved Shane Vansen's life over Haleg by sacrificing his own to take out the Red
Baron. Or so they had thought.
The brown haired man in his mid thirties didn't acknowledge Nathan's presence or
seem to have any visible scars from his encounter with the Red Baron over a year ago.
"Thank you Admiral." Colonel Oakes began turning his attention to the computerized
map behind him, "We have just learned that the Chig's are gathering their forces
around a small asteroid planet twenty light years from their home planet. The 44th's
mission is to go in and drop a listening device on the asteroid and get out without
interacting with the enemy."
"If we know most of their forces are there," Nathan asked, "Why aren't we sending in
a full force? Just wipe them out. End this thing now."
Oakes finally met Nathan's gaze, "Because we want to get a leg up, so to speak on
what the Chig's plans are. If we were to send in a full force it would frankly be sending
lambs to the slaughter. Our energy resources are rapidly decreasing. If we sent a full
force in right now the War is lost." He turned to face the group, "Any other questions?"
Silence.
"Good. I want the 44th on the Flight deck in twenty mikes. Dismissed." Nathan
remained seated while the rest of the squadron filed out. After Tilson left West stood
catching Oakes before he left the room.
"Well, you look pretty good for a dead man." Nathan said folding his arms across his
chest.
John Oakes sighed as he shut the door, turning to face West, "I wasn't sure if you
remembered me."
Nathan's brown eyes narrowed, "Its kind of hard to forget a man who sacrifices his life
a friend of mine."
"Let's just say the rumors of my death were greatly exaggerated." John replied.
Nathan stared at him, "Why? Why fake your death? Why cause Shane that kind of
pain?"
Oakes adverted his gaze, "Believe me Nathan, it wasn't my choice, but it was what I
had to do to survive." He met Nathan's gaze, "I heard about Shane and the Wildcards.
I'm sorry Nathan. I know what that kind of pain feels like. You better get going. You
have less than seven mikes to be suited and on the Flight deck."
"Yes, Sir." Nathan replied bitterly before exiting the conference room.
Operation:Homeward Bound
Chig territory
Last week of May, 2064
Despite the protection of the safety harnesses, Captain Shane Vansen was nearly
thrown against the control panel as the injured cockpit landed roughly on the planet's
surface. The chute had only partially opened, and it was a miracle they were in one
piece.
A moan from her left forced Shane to start thinking like a Marine instead of just
reacting. She slowly lifted her head, wincing as a wave of dizziness hit her. Taking
several deep breaths Shane was finally able to take in their surroundings.
Vanessa was thankfully still strapped in, starting to come around. The cockpit itself had
sustained minimal damage from the impact. At least there wasn't any more damage
than what was sustained during the fire fight. The hinge on Shane's safety harness was
jammed, she would need Vanessa's help if they were going to survive.
Shane reached out and gently touched the young black woman's shoulder, "Phoose,
can you hear me?"
Silence.
Shane shook her gently, "Vanessa! It's Shane, can you hear me?"
With a groan Vanessa Damphoose straightened in her seat. As she opened her eyes
the world swam before her, forcing them closed. Leaning back against the seat
Vanessa pressed her right hand against a newly formed cut on her forehead.
"Oh man, anybody get the license number of that truck?" Vanessa asked weakly,"Shane, what hit us?"
Shane laughed at her friend's attempt at humor then winced immediately regretting the
action. Pain shot through the right side of her ribs. She prayed they were only bruised.
"Nothing hit us, Phoose. The Chigs fired, the cockpit was separated from the cargo
hold. Now we're planet side."
Memories were slowly returning for Vanessa, "Where's Coop? "She asked anxiously.
"Nathan picked up him and the colonists. I'm sure they're back on the Saratoga by
now." Shane paused looking her friend over, "Are you hurt anywhere?"
Vanessa tested her arms and legs, "I'm okay, just my head."
Shane nodded, "My harness is jammed. Can you get out of yours?"
Taking a moment to orient herself Vanessa fumbled with the straps for a moment
before finding the hinge and, "This one's okay." She replied as she unlocked the hinge.
Shane nodded, "Okay. Get me out of this so we can figure out what we're going to
do."
Shenadoah, Iowa
June, 2065
Kylen Celina stepped out of the two door dark green rental car, smiling at the familiar
figures standing on the porch.
"This is a hard place to find." Kylen commented as she walked around the front of the
car.
"That's part of its charm." McQueen replied with a smile as he walked down the steps
toward her
Kylen fell into step with him, "You're looking well, Colonel."
McQueen grinned, "For a man without a leg. I'll show you were you can stash your
gear and then I believe Hawkes has something to tell us."
Cooper nodded, leading the way into the farmhouse.
Fifteen minutes later they all sat near the fireplace. Kylen sipped a glass of lemonade as
she and Ty waited for Cooper Hawkes to read Nathan's letter. Hawkes looked at his
friends for a moment before opening the plain white envelope.
My Friends,
I wish I could be there in person to explain all of this to you. But the War has gotten so
much worse since the peace talk fiasco. This was the only way I could talk to you.
Colonel, I know you've tried to keep track of me since you were shipped home. I
appreciate your concern, but I'm fine. Well, as good as I can be considering.
I don't know how much the media has gotten wind of, but less than two months ago
the 33rd squadron was shot down. All members killed.
McQueen stared at Hawkes, "The 33rd?" He repeated in shock, "After the Angry
Angels they were the best. It must've taken a hell of a lot of Chigs to take them out."
Hawkes nodded and continued with Nathan's letter,
After the 33rd was wiped out the Franklin Roosevelt was immediately shipped closer
to the front lines. The official government report says the 33rd was ambushed by a
Chig squadron before they could radio back for help.
I talked with a few friends on the Saratoga where the 33rd was stationed. They told
me off the record that the area where the 33rd was supposedly shot down hadn't been
an active area for the Chigs.
At this McQueen leaned forward with interest, "So West thinks the Chigs weren't
behind the destruction of the 33rd."
Kylen looked at Hawkes, "But what can we do? What does Nathan want us to do?"
Cooper skimmed through the rest of the letter, "This last paragraph is in some kind of
code."
Kylen took the letter from him, "Let me see. Nathan and I used to write coded letters
back and forth to each other in class."
"Cooper," She said after a few minutes, "He got you transferred back to the Saratoga.
You'll be with the 55th. Colonel, it looks like you and I will be visiting Nathan on the
Roosevelt. I've been assigned as part of their medical staff."
McQueen nodded, "I'll make some calls. There are two rooms upstairs you guys can
bunk in. Get some rest, it sounds like we're going to need it."
Operation:Homeward bound
First day of June, 2064
Captain Shane Vansen winced as pain shot through her bruised ribs. She paused for a
moment leaning against one of the few trees on the planet. It had been nearly forty
eight hours since they crash landed on the surface and still no rescue. Shane was beginning to wonder if anyone was still looking for them. If anyone had made it back to the Saratoga to report them missing.
She had left a few hours before to scout the area around the small valley where the
cockpit had crashed. The planet wasn't much to look at. Reminded Shane more of a
tundra than a valley. There were low hills sparsely dotted with thin trunk trees.
Shane was about to head back when she heard a faint beeping. Cocking her head she
listened, there it was again. Sounded like it was coming from over the next hill. She quickly crossed
the first hill and scooted up the next one so she was peering over the top. At the bottom, sitting at an odd angle was a lifepod. Shane scrambled to her feet when she realized it was one of theirs.
"Oh my God," Shane said when she finally reached the pod and saw who was inside,
"Paul."
She quickly checked the computer display to make sure everything was still working
properly.
"You're alive." Shane said to Paul's unconscious form, "Good. Don't go anywhere. I'll
be back with reinforcements."
Operation: Homeward Bound
First week of June, 2064
Lieutenant Vanessa Damphoose skidded to a stop next to the lifepod, "If Paul's here
where's Nathan?"
Shane shook her head, trying to hide her worry, "Just because Paul ejected doesn't
mean that Nathan didn't make it back to the Saratoga."
Vanessa nodded moving quickly to examine the life pod, "According to the readouts,
he's just unconscious. Should be safe to move him back to the ship."
"Okay." Shane replied, "Let's move him carefully. I have a feeling we don't want to be
out here at night."
"The readouts on the pod said he's been out for at least six hours and its been two
more since we found him." Shane said as she started to pace the small back area of the
cock pit, "How much longer do we give him before I really start to get worried?"
Vanessa shook her head as she tenderly pulled a gray blanket up under Paul's chin,
"Head injuries are tricky, Shane. Right now all we can do is sit and wait and hope that
he comes out of it on his own."
U.S.S. Franklin Roosevelt
Chig Territory
June, 2065
Colonel John Oakes could still feel Nathan West's stare as the hammerheads were
lowered out of the launch bay. Hell, he didn't blame West for being suspicious of him.
He'd be suspicious of him. He still couldn't get over the events of the last year. They
had all happened so fast, he hadn't had much time to consider if they were right or
wrong. It was survival instinct pure and simple. Now it was just a matter of getting
West to see it that way.
Nathan forced himself to concentrate on the mission ahead. With all the scandal that
had followed the 58th after the peace talk fiasco it had taken the 44th a long time to
accept him as one of their own. He wasn't about to blow that because John Oakes
decided to come back from the dead.
"44th you're clear for departure."
"Roger that." Nathan replied tightening his grip on the controls as he eased the throttle
forward. Less than a minute later seven hammerhead fighters were flying majestically in
formation.
Nathan adjusted his mike before saying, "Alright people let's look alive. This is going to
be a simple one .Just go in and drop the listening device and get out before they see
us."
Operation: Homeward Bound
First week of June, 2064
When they got back, she was going to design a cockpit with a little more room. And
hidden space for emergency situations. Vanessa thought wearily as she stumbled
around the small space next to Paul's still form. She glanced at the front two chairs,
Shane had finally fallen asleep after Vanessa had assured her she would wake her the
moment Paul showed any change.
Vanessa knelt next to the makeshift bed, absently straightening the blanket. She hoped
Paul came around soon. The longer he was unconscious the more worried she got.
She had no idea what kind of internal injuries the young man could've received during
the battle.
"Come on Paul," Vanessa said quietly, absently brushing a stray black bang away from
his face, "We could really use your help here."
O'Hare Spaceport
Chicago, IL
June, 2065 10:00 a.m.
Kylen Celina nervously adjusted the shoulder strap on her purple canvas bag as the trio
waited for the Air Force transport that would take them to Mars. From there they
would hop an Army transport to take them to the Saratoga first, since the Roosevelt
was so deep into Chig territory.
"You alright?"
Kylen jumped slightly as McQueen suddenly appeared at her left shoulder. "Fine." She
replied tightly.
"Its alright to feel scared." Ty commented, his blue gaze watching the planes take off
and land.
"When I signed up for the Tellis project I thought it was going to be this great
adventure that Nathan and I would share together." Kylen replied her voice barely
above a whisper, "It all happened so fast. Nathan was dumped from the project hours
before lift off. Then they attacked us..."
"Mars Colony flight number 877 is now ready for boarding at Gate 11."
"That's us." McQueen said looking around the crowded airport for Hawkes, "Do you
see Hawkes?"
Kylen forced the memories away and scanned the crowd, "There he is. Over by the
comic book rack."
McQueen shook his head in amusement, "Figures."
"Once again Mars Colony flight number 877 is now ready for boarding of all
passengers at gate 11."
Cooper heard the second call and quickly maneuvered through the crowd to join the
others in line.
Operation: Homeward Bound
Chig Territory
First week of June, 2064
Lieutenant Paul Wang slowly felt the fog lift from his consciousness. He was falling,
falling fast and there was nothing he could do to stop himself. His eyes opened and he
awoke with a scream.
Vanessa was instantly at his side. Placing a comforting hand on his shoulder, easing him
back down. "Its alright Paul, you're safe. Its over. You're safe now."
Paul's eyes finally focused on her. It was like he was seeing her, but wasn't,
"Phoose?"He asked, his voice coming out as a dry croak.
Vanessa nodded, "Yeah, its me. Get some rest, Paul."
Shane knelt next to Damphoose, lightly touching Paul's hand, "You had us scared there
for awhile, Paul. Get some sleep. We'll fill you in when you're stronger."
Paul Wang tried to protest, but his eyelids drifted close. Sleep over took him.
44th Squadron dispatched from USS Roosevelt
Chig territory
June, 2065
"West! Look alive!"
Nathan West jerked out of his thoughts as the warning from his left wingman
ricocheted in his helmet. His brown eyes widened as he saw the reason for the
warning.
Nathan jerked the wheel of the hammerhead hard to the right, barely clearing the small
asteroid that had wandered into his flight path .
"Captain, you alright?"Lieutenant Dawn Harrison asked with concern.
Nathan nodded, "Fine, just had a hard time sleeping of late. Thanks for the warning,
Harrison."
"Anytime."Harrison replied.
"Okay," Nathan said once he got his bearings, "We're nearly at the drop point. I want
radio silence. Nobody say a word unless someone's life is at stake, got it?"
A chorus of "Aye, Sir" answered him as the hammerhead squadron flew closer to the
asteroid planet.
U.S.S. Saratoga
Stationed near Chig territory
June, 2065
The Saratoga hadn't changed. McQueen thought to himself as the trio was escorted to
the bridge.
"Its like we're still here." Hawkes whispered, "Like the Wildcards never left."
McQueen nodded and was about to reply when Commodore Glen Ross stepped into
the corridor. There was no emotion portrayed on his face.
"Someone told me they let you two back on board." Ross said gruffly.
McQueen nodded, "Commodore."
A smile broke across Ross's face as he grasped McQueen's right hand in a hearty
handshake, "Its good to have you back on board, Ty."
McQueen returned the smile and the handshake, "I wish I could say this was a social
visit, Glen."
Ross's gaze flickered to Hawkes and Kylen, "Lieutenant Hawkes, I understand you
got transferred to the 55th."
Cooper instantly snapped to attention, "Yes, Sir!"
"They're a good unit. Not as good as the 5-8, but I'm sure you'll fit right in."
"Yes, Sir." Hawkes replied.
Ross smiled, "I'm sure you remember your way around, but this Ensign will show you
to the 55's quarters and Ms. Calinea to her guest quarters."
"Thank you, Commodore." Kylen replied as she followed Hawkes and the young
Ensign back down the corridor.
Operation: Homeward Bound
First week of June, 2064
It was another seven hours before Paul Wang awoke again. Even though he was still
pale, Shane thought he was strong enough to be told of their situation.
"So they're not looking for us?" Paul asked as he struggled into a sitting position.
"Of course they are." Vanessa said a little too quickly.
Shane shook her head, placing a hand on her shoulder, "He needs to know the whole
situation."
Vanessa nodded and moved away to look through the emergency kit for food
supplies.
Shane continued, "The truth is Paul, we don't know if they're still looking for us. We've
been here for almost four days and there's been no sign of a rescue."
"Maybe the convoy didn't make it back to the Saratoga." Vanessa commented, even
though it was something they all would rather not think about.
Paul shook his head, "No. Last time I saw them. Nathan had locked onto the
Colonists and had started back toward the Saratoga. So there should be a rescue."
Shane nodded, "Well that's one comfort that Nathan finally got reunited with Kylen.
We have to assume that there won't be a rescue. We have to start coming up with a
plan to see how the hell we're going to get off this planet."
U.S.S. Saratoga
Near Chig territory June, 2065
Ty waved off the offer of scotch that Ross placed in front of him. Ross nodded and sat
down behind his desk, Rosalyn resting in his lap.
"I was surprised when Hawkes's transfer request appeared on my desk." Ross said
softly, gently strumming one of the strings.
Ty nodded walking over to the row of family photographs Ross had on the wall, "Glen,
how much do you know about what happened to the 33rd?"
Ross blinked, McQueen now having his full attention, "They were all killed in a Chig
ambush a few months ago. Why?"
Ty turned to face his old friend, "Kylen got a letter from West. He believes that the
33rd wasn't destroyed by the Chigs. That there's a cover-up."
Ross stood behind his desk, "Does he have any proof to back this up?"
McQueen shook his head, "Not yet. That's why Kylen and I are headed to the
Roosevelt, see what we can dig up."
"Let me know if there's anything I can do to help." Ross replied gently sitting Rosalyn
down on the floor.
"Will do." Ty said walking toward the door of Ross's quarters. He paused turning
back, "Glen, do me a favor."
Ross looked up, "Sure."
"Keep an eye on Hawkes for me. He puts up a brave front but the loss of the
Wildcards hit him hard."
Ross nodded, "Will do. Take care of yourself, Ty."
A nod was McQueen's only reply as he vanished out the door.
Operation: Homeward Bound
Chig territory
First week of June, 2064
"That's not going to last us very long, is it?" Vanessa Damphoose asked, even though
she already knew the answer.
Shane counted the food rations again, "Might last us a week, maybe more if we
conserve."
Paul swung his feet over the side of the makeshift bed, "Well, we can't be the only
living things on this planet. There has to be some kind of food source out there that we
can use."
Vanessa caught him as he started to fall, "You're not going anywhere, Paul. You need
you're rest."
Paul shook her off, "I've rested plenty." He paused seeing a shadow of concern cross
her face, "I'm fine, Phoose, really."
Shane shook her head," You can barely stand."
"I'm fine, Vansen. I just need to get my sea legs back, so to speak." Paul protested.
"And you'll have plenty of time to do so, while Phoose and I go out and look for
possible food sources." Shane replied as she motioned Vanessa toward the door, "Get
some rest, Paul. That's an order."
44th Squadron
Dispatched from the U.S.S. Roosevelt
Chig territory
"Hoooorah!"
"Great shot!" Nathan commented as the 44th began to even the odds, "There should
be two more, but I'm not picking up anything on LIDAR. Anybody see anything?"
"Negative." Lieutenant Jason Marks replied, his hammerhead bringing up the rear of
the group, "Let's head back, West. I'm getting thirsty thinking of all those free drinks."
"Don't count those drinks yet, Marks." Lieutenant Kim Yardley said as her green eyes
studied her LIDAR screen, "I have six more bogies comin' in at four o'clock. Can
anyone confirm?"
"Confirmed." Paul Hanson replied, sandy blond hair falling onto his forehead, "At least
two more Chig squadron's comin' in. Who wants first crack?"
"Negative." Nathan ordered as he turned his plane back toward the direction of the
Roosevelt, "We're low on fuel and ammo. We've completed the mission, let's go
home."
Hanson smirked as he reluctantly turned his plane around, "You're becoming a
disappointment, West. I would've thought with what those Chigs did to your precious
Wildcards that you'd want to fight them down to your last bullet."
Nathan glanced down at a group picture of the Wildcards (McQueen included) in their
barracks. Kelly Winslow had taken it just before the battle with Chiggy Von Richtofen.
"There are better ways to get revenge, Hanson." Nathan replied softly, "Much better
ways."
Operation: Homeward Bound
Chig territory
June, 2064
Lieutenant Paul Wang drifted in and out of sleep. The door to the cockpit opened,
Paul ignored it assuming it was Phoose or Vansen returning. Then he heard a sound
that jerked him awake. A sound that try as he might still sent waves of fear to his heart.
The computerized beeping sounds that signaled the arrival of an AI.
Paul slowly shifted on the bed, turning his head so he could see the AI, but hopefully
so that the AI couldn't tell that he was awake. This AI was a woman, built to appear in
her late twenties. She had shoulder length blonde hair, her eyes were green. Her six
foot plus frame was covered with leather. Black leather crop top shirt, green leather
jacket complete with fringe, matching black leather pants, and completing the outfit
were almost knee high combat boots. Paul would've laughed if it wasn't for the gun clenched tightly in her right hand.
"Well, looked what we have here. A Marine playin' possum." The AI purred as she
knelt next to Paul's still form, "I think the Boss might find you very interesting."
"Are you sure these aren't poisonous?" Shane Vansen asked as she and Vanessa made
their way back to the plane.
"Well, we won't know until we try them." Vanessa joked holding up the blue colored
oval shaped fruit, "Seriously from the scans I took of the plant they should be okay."
"You closed the door to the plane when we left, right?" Shane asked crouching down
behind a small hill twenty feet from the plane.
Vanessa knelt down next to her, brown eyes fixed on the broken plane, "Yes."
"Then we've got trouble." Shane replied scanning the area for anything that seemed out
of place. Then she heard the sound. The beeping, clicking computer sound that could
only mean the arrival of an AI.
Both Marines whirled around but not fast enough to avoid being held at gunpoint.
"Well, well, well. Look who dropped in for dinner."
Vanessa was the first to find her voice, "You're dead."
Howard Sewell laughed, "I guess you could say that's true. Howard Sewell-R 12547
was killed on the Saratoga. I'm Sewell-Z 23467 a less sophisticated model, but the
same personality."
"We should be so lucky. "Shane muttered, "How long have you been on the planet?"
Sewell-Z waved the gun urging the Wildcards to their feet, "I'll answer all your
questions, ladies in due time. Now shall we have a warm fuzzy reunion with your
friend? I believe you know the way."
U.S.S. Roosevelt
Chig Territory
June, 2065
Captain Nathan West nervously shifted from one foot to the other as he waited for the
APC to dock. He knew there was no logical reason for his nervousness but this would
be the first time he had seen either Kylen or McQueen since the peace talk fiasco over
a year ago. Finally the gray door slid open and two familiar faces stepped onto the
Roosevelt.
"Hello, Kylen."Nathan said, glad to see her healthy and happy.
"Nathan." Kylen replied as she quickly enveloped West in a bear hug nearly toppling
them both, "Its so good to see you."
McQueen waited a few moments before clearing his throat, "Sorry to interrupt,
Captain, but if you could show us where to stash our gear I'd like to get this show on
the road."
Nathan grinned, "Good to see you again, Colonel."
U.S.S. Saratoga
Stationed near Chig territory
June, 2065
Lieutenant Cooper Hawkes stood staring at the open door of his new quarters. Even
with the new paint job and the rearrangement of the bunks Cooper knew where he
was. The 55th was now living in the Wildcards old barracks. Cooper set down his
black duffel bag and walked over to the metal door. An orange and black tiger shark
stared back at Hawkes where the Wildcards used to be.
"It's like we were never here." Cooper whispered as he turned and walked back into the room.
Hawkes unconsciously sat down on his old bunk not seeming to notice it was clearly
someone else's. The young InVitro drew his knees to his chest, Cooper could still feel
them. Wang, Phoose, Shane it was like the spirits of the Wildcards were still in that
room. Cooper tightened his arms around his knees, rocking himself slightly.
He could feel them.
"Get the hell off my bunk, Tank!"
Cooper's head snapped up at the gruff male voice to find a six foot plus red haired
marine glaring back at him.
"It's my bunk!" Hawkes yelled as he launched himself at the Marine. In seconds fists
connected with flesh as the two Marines were now engaged in a brawl.
Operation: Homeward Bound
Chig Territory
June, 2064
Lieutenant Paul Wang stared at his friends in shock, "You're saying Sewell was an
AI?!"
Vanessa nodded, "Amazing, isn't it?"
Paul leaned his back against the outside wall of the plane, "He couldn't have been an
AI. He was too," Wang paused searching for the right word, "Human."
Shane glanced at Howard Sewell-Z as he and the female AI talked in a huddle about
ten feet from the plane.
"According to our host, Howard Sewell-R was a much more sophisticated model."
She looked at Paul, "If this is true, the Sewell we knew must've been an experimental
model. Top of the line."
USS Saratoga
Stationed near Chig territory
June, 2065
Commodore Glen Ross was not a happy man as he stormed down the corridor
toward the 55th's quarters. Several Marines had gathered around the doorway
watching the fight, they saw him coming and quickly scattered to their own quarters.
Ross paused in the doorway, not surprised to see the two marines still involved in a all
out fist fight.
Folding his arms across his chest he said in his best drill sergeant voice, "What the hell
is going on here?! I was under the impression we were fighting the Chigs and not each
other!"
The fight instantly stopped, both men frozen in their places like two deers caught in a
pair of car headlights.
Ross walked into the room looking each Marine in the eye, "Did both of you suddenly
forget everything it takes to be a Marine?! What happened to saluting a senior officer
when they entered the room."
Hawkes instantly snapped to attention raising his hand in salute. The other Marine
Lieutenant Brandon Russell was a second too slow.
Ross zeroed in on the six foot plus redhead, "Lieutenant Russell, I believe you have an
explanation to give me?"
USS Franklin Roosevelt
Chig territory
June, 2065
Lieutenant Colonel John Oakes prowled the corridors restlessly, finally ending up in
the ship's tavern. *The Crow's Nest* was bustling most of the marines and army pilots
had just returned from missions or gotten off duty.
Oakes followed the sound of laughter to a far corner where Nathan West's squadron
was engaged in a game of poker. He met West's gaze but didn't walk over to the
group. Instead John walked to the bar and took the solitary spot at the right end. He
ordered a double scotch and reached into his pocket to pull out his drink card.
In the process something metal tumbled out onto the purple carpeting, in the bar's
darkness John almost lost it. Finally he spotted his good luck charm under the stool.
Picking up the gold aviator wings, John held them up to the light. He still wasn't quite
sure why he carried the pin. Shane Vansen had given it to him on their last date so
many years ago. The glass clinking down on the bar drew John away from his memories of Shane. He
absently nodded his thanks to the bartender before finishing the drink in three gulps.
Nathan West placed down his hand of cards with a frown, "I'm out." He replied
standing and picking up his glass.
"What's the matter, West?" Paul Hanson taunted, "I thought the great Wildcards
enjoyed playing poker?"
Nathan kept a tight reign on his temper, now was not the time nor the place to get into
a fight,
"It depends on what hand your dealt, Hanson." West placed a hand on the
back of his chair looking Hanson in the eyes, "For future reference, don't ever mention
the Wildcards."
Hanson didn't flinch, "Is that an order, *Captain*?"
Nathan moved away from the chair starting to walk away, "No, it's only a suggestion
that I strongly urge you to follow."
Oakes was working on his second scotch when Nathan took a seat next to him.
"Trouble in the ranks?" John asked with a small smile.
Nathan shook his head as he ordered another beer, "Nothing that concerns you."
Oakes shrugged, "If you say so."
Nathan accepted the beer from the bartender and took a sip before saying, "You
never answered my question earlier."
"This is not the time or place to go into that, West."
Nathan stood his ground, "Name the time and place then, Colonel."
John calmly finished his drink before standing. He scooped the gold plated aviator
wings from the bar and placed it back in his pant's pocket.
"Trust me on this, Nathan drop this line of questioning. You have no idea what you're
getting into."
Operation: Homeward bound
First week of June, 2064
Vanessa watched the two AI's huddle in deep conversation. The woman looked to be
a cross between Elvria and G.I. Jane. She inched closer to her crew mates, her voice
dropping to a whisper. "I think we can easily take them out."
Shane glanced at their captors and back at Paul before shaking her head, "Wouldn't
do us any good in the long run. We need their ship to get off of this rock."
"How do we even know they have a ship?" Paul asked ,"The Chig's could've just
dropped them off."
"No, they have a ship. We just have to play it cool until they show their hand then we
make our move."
USS Franklin Roosevelt
Chig territory
June, 2065
Lieutenant Colonel T.C. McQueen stepped through the swinging bars of the Crow's
Nest just in time to see John Oakes brush past him. Thinking the dim light of the bar
was playing tricks on him McQueen made his way toward Nathan West.
Nathan motioned the bartender over, "I'll have another beer and whatever the Colonel
wants."
McQueen sat down and ordered a scotch. The InVitro waited until the bar keep
returned with their drinks before turning to face West.
"I see you met our ghost." Nathan said with a small smile.
McQueen nodded, "He give you an explanation as to what happened over Haleg?"
West shook his head, "He must've taken dancing lessons from Shane. He's very good
at sidestepping the issue. One things very clear he's scared of something."
Lieutenant Colonel John Oakes returned to his quarters to find a mail icon blinking on
his computer. With a weary sigh John placed the aviator wings on the desk in front of
him before hitting a few keys to activate the mail program.
A frown instantly crossed his face as he realized who the letter was from and what they
wanted him to do. John angrily slapped the delete key, erasing the note.
Yes, he was grateful to be alive and still have his military career, but there was a limit at
what a man would do and they had just crossed that line.
USS Saratoga
Stationed near Chig territory
June, 2065
When Russell refused to reply to the Commodore of the Saratoga Ross turned his
wrath on Cooper.
"How the hell did this start, Hawkes? You've barely been back on board for six
hours!"
Cooper fought the urge to shift from one foot to the other, instead he looked Ross in
the eyes, "He started it, Sir."
Ross looked Russell who only hesitated a second before giving the Commodore a
response.
"He was sitting on my bunk, Sir."Russell explained.
Cooper glared at his new team mate, "It's my bunk!"
Russell stared at the InVitro, not comprehending the conversation,
"I don't know what you're talking about, Tank."Russell stated."I've had that bunk since the 55th was transferred to the
'Toga seven months ago."
Hawkes took several steps forward, starting to raise his right first, "This was our room.
The Wildcards are still here. I can still feel them in this room."
All the anger instantly disappeared from Russell as he realized just who Hawkes was.
He looked at Ross apologetically.
"I'm sorry Commodore I didn't realize who..."The marine apologized.
Ross nodded clamping a hand down on Cooper's left shoulder steering him away from
Russell, "Its alright, Lieutenant, but that does not in any way excuse your actions here.
Go run a hundred laps around the ship, I'll get back to you on your punishment."
Lieutenant Brandon Russell blinked but that was the only reaction he gave. With a nod
he turned on his heel and jogged out into the corridor.