Chapter 4: Second Domino Tipped


-Although not mentioned because it's assumed, I'll restate that I have no legal claims whatsoever regarding anything to do with the Resident Evil series which is owned by Capcom.-


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What is the status of Ms. Birkin?

The technician was terrified. A–all signs normal sir...., he stuttered. There hasn't been any evidence of unusual pathogen activity.... He saw his own terrified reflection in the dark lenses.

I see. The voice fell like lead. On the matter of the procurement, what is its status?

S-sorry, sir! The tech was breaking out into a cold sweat. But the commander has to be present to authorize the release of such data.

Albert Wesker's tolerance of these low-level pawns was wearing thin. The thought of simply tearing off his head in front of the command deck appealed to him, but he held his monstrous tendencies at bay. Self-control was the core fiber of Wesker's being; it had served him in the past, and it would serve him until the end, which, if it did its job correctly, would not happen for quite some time. Or not at all., he thought smugly. On the matter of the annoying and disturbingly inefficient technician, simple intimidation would suffice.

And who do you think brought it here?, he asked icily. The diminutive tech was beginning to squirm.

I-I, uh. The man was disgustingly weak in his effort to gratify authority. It's been loaded into the quarantine lab... the preliminary analysis is being conducted.

Wesker was satisfied. He ignored the man and continued down the corridor towards the elevators that read: Restricted Area: Security Clearance 5 There was a small H.C.F. insignia carved into the lower corner of the sign. Wesker ignored it and whipped out a key card, sliding it through the elevator's slot. It obligingly opened after confirming the cards authenticity. The black clad man stepped in, the door automatically sealing.

Please confirm identity with retinal scan., the computer suddenly said. If authenticity is not confirmed, security measures will be activated. You have ten seconds to comply. Wesker smirked, sliding his key card through an obscure looking slot on the bottom right of the scanning device. The device seemed almost confused, but after a moment the sound of the elevator's pulleys activating could be heard. Wesker decided that it would be a good time to relax, it was going to be a long ride down. He took the moment to remove his sunglasses, allowing his eyes to relax and take in the light naturally. The yellow pupils immediately contracted, their fiery irises easily adapting to slight change in light.

His thoughts turned toward the so called procurement that he himself had been responsible for taking. The last six years had been filled with nearly identical missions: cleanup, capture, espionage, subterfuge, assassination; every dirty trick in the book. Wesker loved it. His last mission had been particularly fruitful. He had led his team in and completely wiped out a hidden Umbrella storage facility. Besides new research data, there had been a number of prototype B.O.W.'s in storage. Wesker had gleefully helped himself to some of the more protected tanks, bringing them back to this H.C.F. base that had coincidentally housed Sherry Birkin. His visit with the girl done, he was eager to see his new toys. Some of the new specimens looked especially intriguing, if not adding more mystery into Umbrella's recent uneventful profile.
What could Spencer be planning?, he thought to himself. It was his current private investigation, although he naturally buried it under the legitimate claim of investigating Umbrella's recent low-key profile. It seemed obvious to Wesker that something critical was going on at one of Umbrella's facilities, enough to cause them to even stop their normally ridiculously unsecured and illegal experiments that usually backfired. His sources had been strangely devoid of any useful information. A new virus perhaps? Or a new B.O.W.?, countless possibilities sprung to life in front of him. No matter, we'll find out soon enough. Then I'll deal with Redfield and his band of weaklings., Wesker actually felt happiness at the thought of causing an incredible amount of physical damage to the man who had survived him in the Antarctic. Wesker knew that unlike Umbrella, the organization that the S.T.A.R.S. had gravitated towards couldn't help but leave its noisy and messy tracks all around the globe. It was only a matter of time before he crushed each of their strongholds Or it's only a matter of time before they come looking for me. After all, I have Sherry. Despite the pleasant thoughts, the nagging mystery of Umbrella and its reclusive founder still nagged him.

Wesker tried to call up what he knew of the man named Ozwell Spencer. All he could remember was that the enigmatic owner of the Mansion was pale, almost always covered from head to toe in concealing attire. No one knew exactly what he looked like. Anyone too curious ended up missing, or off visiting a sick Aunt'. Albert Wesker had been eighteen when he had been brought to the Spencer Mansion, he remembered the date exactly: July 31st, 1978. He had been hailed as a prodigy in the field of microbiology, Umbrella had wasted no time in recruiting him. His only real companion had been the even younger William Birkin, just 16 yet already having the reputation of a ruthless scientist. The Mansion from that point became their private facility, all hailing to their every whim and order; Spencer only demanding updates on their progress with the Tyrant Virus. Wesker smiled at the memory. How long has it been?, Wesker wondered. He looked down at his exposed forearm. It was pale, solid. He smiled as he admired its flawless surface, like polished marble; also as cold the lifeless stone. He had to admit that even he had been skeptical of the virus Birkin had given him before he had taken the S.T.A.R.S. on their infamous mission to the Mansion. Despite the discomfort of allowing the Tyrant-003 impale him, the results had been worth it. Yet I still have to hide in the shadows with this massive power., he thought, irritated as to the amount of restraint he had to show among normal humans to conceal his true nature.

Still, Wesker was anything but naive. He knew his power was greater than that of any man, the virus in his blood stream allowing him to perform superhuman feats of physical athleticism and durability. Yet, even at its best, his virus was still considered a failure in the eyes of Umbrella. Despite allowing him to remain superficially human and allowing his intellect to remain, he knew that his virus had been a prototype of the G-Virus, only strengthening his inherent characteristics. Unarmed, he knew that there was no way he could manage to handle a fully developed Tyrant, let alone G-Type like the one Birkin had become. Birkin, you sad fool., he thought with honest pity. Birkin had been the closest thing to a friend to him, the drive to complete their research of the same caliber. Yet they had been different. Wesker wanted power, physical or otherwise. It was what had driven him to construct the S.T.A.R.S. team in the first place, although, it was a decision he greatly regretted at times. His flawless betrayal of Umbrella had been completely ruined by the ever so resourceful Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine. As a result of their actions, he had lost all the combat data he had gathered on the Tyrant which he had promised to H.C.F.; his dreams demolished in the self-destruct that obliterated the Mansion. H.C.F. wasn't pleased, or convinced by his results. To prove his loyalty, he joined forces with the agent then under the name Ada Wong', and set out to collect the G-Virus sample in exchange for his new employment. That had luckily ended in his favor, H.C.F. welcoming him into its greedy arms. Would he betray them too? Wesker honestly didn't know.

His thoughts seemed to want to linger in the past, Wesker thought it would keep him occupied until the bottom of the elevator. An image of young and possessed William Birkin spending countless hours to complete his obsessive research flashed through Wesker's mind. That was always your problem, William. , he shook his head with disappointment. You always had to be the best. It was true, despite the genius-like talent Birkin had demonstrated, his character had inherent superiority complex, his young age and constant praise only contributing to his coveted self-status as a miraculous prodigy. Wesker thought with slight disdain how his friend' had almost suffered a nervous breakdown once his status as the youngest and most gifted had been taken by the young Alexia Ashford. A burst of fury suddenly exploded from within him. , he said the name out loud, almost spitting it out like it gave him a foul taste. At the same time, he had to admit, he admired her self-centered thirst for power, it reminded him of himself. But she was weak., he smirked, her precious T-Veronica virus easily destroyed by the Linear Launcher her own father had left behind. That's the end of the Ashford name., he thought, pleased by the outcome. And I'm the only one who has a sample of your precious Veronica.

Ah, Steve Burnside., he said aloud. Just the fact it caused an immense amount of emotional pain to both Claire Redfield and therefore to her loathed brother, had been enough to collect his body. Still, the T-Veronica was proving invaluable to H.C.F.'s own bio-weapons division. Although they also possessed the G-Virus from recovering Birkin's very own body, H.C.F.'s bio-weaopons capabilities still lagged noticeably behind Umbrella's. Although it wasn't currently feasible even after the past couple of years, Wesker had plans for both his former friend and the last T-Veronica experiment. I'm sure both of you are going to want catch up with a lot of people., Wesker surprised an urge when the elevator chimed. He was on the bottom floor. The glasses came back up to shield the burning yellow. He confidently walked into the top-secret laboratory despite the twenty assault rifles aimed at him. Ignoring the soldiers' vigil over him, he made his way to the main lab terminal; a number of white-clad scientists were already hard at work.



Just his voice made a couple of them jump. It was going to be a very enjoyable day.
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Anything yet?, Chris Redfield moaned as he stretched his stiff shoulders. Alice and Barry were meanwhile both using metal detectors over the leveled clearing where the ominous structure known as the Spencer Mansion had once stood. The burning midday sun that was making it very difficult to work, each of them had gone in pairs, switching places with another after

It's only been a couple of hours, Chris., Jill said as she drank some of her bottled water. Although she kept herself in excellent shape, the little trek through the Arkley Mountains and then having to walk around the Mansion's remains with a heavy metal detector had been exhausting.

I really wish we had taken the chopper., Rebecca said, rubbing her sore legs.

Then that hidden air radar we disabled on our hike here would be calling in a whole squadron of heavily armed Umbrella security., Claire replied in a matter-of-fact way. Although on a positive note, if all they left was an automated radar they must not consider this place a priority now.

Humph, I think that we shouldn't pull out the picnic basket and make ourselves at home yet., Chris replied. We may not see anything but that doesn't mean we're not being watched.

Rebecca made a face. I really hope that we find something soon. I don't think I can go another turn.

That's why you should join me on those ten mile jogs I go on, they're a great warm up., Jill said brightly, despite the fact she herself was feeling rather worn out.

Rebecca rolled her eyes. Yes, Ms. I-Could-Be-Swim-Suit-Model-But-Instead-I'm-Saving-The-World. I'll stick to something a little less strenuous. . .like a movie or something. Jill stuck her tongue out.

Claire shrugged. You could always try yoga, I've heard that it's a great work out and it relieves stress. She suddenly felt someone leaning on her. It was Carlos. I'll watch you bend and stretch anytime., he said playfully. Chris protectively glared at him for his sister.

Claire merely slapped Carlos's hand off in a friendly manner. You first., she said daringly.

Carlos raised his hands in protest. No way I'd do that new-age mumbo voodoo junk., he said vehemently. I'll stick to my weights! Feel those muscles, chica!

Sorry, but I forgot my magnifying glass. They were interrupted by a sarcastic voice. Alice walked towards the group, Barry remained at the point they had just surveyed. Chris acknowledged her presence first. Find anything?

Alice nodded, casually flipping her dishwater blonde hair in a very eye catching manner. Either that or someone buried enough metal to reconstruct the Titanic. She walked over to the car, rummaging through its contents until she removed several metal cases marked: Warning! Explosive Materials Inside!, along with other perfunctory notes of caution. She began to lug the C4 explosives towards the site when both Chris and Carlos ran to help her. This was not unnoticed by the three other females of the group.

Who does she think she is?, Jill glowered. Claire and Rebecca both giggled.

Jealous of all the attention she's getting?, Rebecca asked. Claire nodded in agreement. Jill raised an irritated eyebrow at the two younger womans' suggestion.

And just what is it you're insinuating?, she asked, although she herself already knew.

Oh, you're not doing you're whole but we're just friends' thing again are you?, Claire said in an exasperated voice. Just tell him how you feel Jill, you're so right for each other

I know not of what you speak., Jill said in a fake British accent. Her face became serious. Besides, we're in no place to start a relationship., she said sadly. I mean, face it, we're basically at war with a ridiculously powerful corporation that has strings in all parts of society, vastly under matched, and our lives are in constant danger. I have no right to think of personal feelings.

That's b.s. and you know it!, Claire declared. You two are so irritating to watch! She quickly made an embarrassed look but was relieved that no one had heard her outburst. Chris and Carlos were both positioning the explosives while Alice and Barry were setting the timer.

Rebecca sighed. I kinda get what you mean Jill, but you have to draw a line some where. Sure, we've basically dedicated our lives to destroy Umbrella, but we can't make that the only thing that defines ourselves. And besides., she giggled. It's so cute to see how you and Chris act around each other. You both seem so afraid of ruining what you have now, yet you act as if you've been married forever. The medic intentionally emphasized the last two words.

Oh, shut up Becky. Jill said, but there was humor and her voice. She turned her sights on Claire. You too! I can't believe I have to deal with two Redfields simultaneously! She made a mock exasperation voice. Rebecca and Claire both burst out laughing, Jill finally caving in and joining in.

What's so funny?, a confused Chris Redfield asked as he walked up to the giggling trio.

Oh, just girl-talk., Claire said coyly. Chris scowled. I don't wanna know. Anyway, let's move out of this place for now, the timer is about to be set.'

He glanced back towards Carlos who gave him a thumbs-up. Let's go!, Chris commanded as the team professionally regrouped and quickly headed for safe ground. T-minus five minutes., Barry nodded. This is going to be quite the pyrotechnic show.

The group quickly retreated to the perimeter of the massive clearing, making sure to avoid any hazardous of the hazardous debris that littered the area; which, thankfully, there was very little. As they had suspected, Umbrella must have covered up the Mansion's site by the time the Raccoon City outbreak had happened. The only evidence was that most of the trees around the perimeter had burn marks from the fire ball that had radiated outwards from the underground lab; yet even that wasn't obviously visible.

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, . . ., Barry counted off. As the numbers reached closer and closer to zero, everyone held their breath. Alice seemed especially conscious of the countdown, for her, this would be her moment of truth for the plan she had hatched. . . .2, 1–

The thunderous explosion drowned out Barry's voice as the very earth shook from the destructive forces that had just been invoked. All through the forest scores of beards were panicking a flying wildly into the air, assuming that some sort of natural disaster must be imminent. After a few moments the team recomposed themselves.

Everyone okay?, Chris asked slowly, trying to get the ringing out of his ears.

Just a little shaken., Jill replied, feeling dizzy from the shock wave. How much did you detonate?!

Carlos shrugged. I'm pretty sure it was enough to have blown Nemesis into– He immediately cut his voice off as he realized Alice was staring a him. I-uh-Christ–I'm so sorry!, he choked. Alice's face showed no sign of emotion.

It doesn't matter. What's happened has happened. That's life., she said coldly. I'm going to go check our handy work. She began walking off by herself as the others quickly followed, Carlos still punching himself in the head for going into a Nemisis-death joke.

What the hell is wrong with me?! Have I gone totally loco?!, he muttered. Great, now she thinks I'm an insensitive bastard! He felt like shouting or bellowing from a cliff or something. He suddenly felt a familiar grip on his shoulder. He turned around and was surprised to see Jill shaking her head sadly. Don't worry, I've been feeling the exact same thing., she said quietly.

Carlos gulped and nodded. It's too much, you know?, he asked. It's like, here was this thing we just assumed was evil and we're happy we killed it. . .but then, we find out that it used to have a name, a family a–

, Jill held a finger to her lips. I know, it's just one more thing we have to deal with. And on more atrocity Umbrella needs to be held accounted for. The former mercenary nodded, once again amazed by Jill's grace and tact. Carlos had always admired Jill, even developing some romantic feelings towards her during their close contact when they escaped Raccoon. Oh man, she's so beautiful–, he cut off his thoughts. No, I'm over my crush on Jill. . .yes. . .I am Jill gave him a questioning look as she watched Carlos seem to talk with himself. Are you all right? The latino immediately stopped and gave a hasty nod before flushing a bright red.

All were interrupted by a joyous shout. Alice emerged from the cloud of dust, her face showing a smile that one makes during victory. We're in!

Just like that?, Chris asked. I was expecting a lot more trouble. . .

Alice paused. Well, we're in the first door. Let's put it this way, there are a lot more doors that we'll need to go through. Her voice seemed to lose some of its joy. But, it's a good start!

Oh, now are you happy, Mr. Glass-Half-Empty?, Rebecca teased. He was met with a non appreciative glare from Chris. She quieted down.

Let's get the rest of the equipment. Alice's voice sounded like that of an experience captain she had once known. We're going into the Hive.
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Okay, I guess I'll put a bit of romance/humor for now. For some reason I wanted do a Wesker perspective, although I may have been cramming way too much into that part. To be honest, there was more I was going to include such as parts from Gaiden and Survivor. Anyway, thanks for the great reviews! On a side note, I wonder if I'm spending too much time in side character's perspectives than the main ones. :( Oh well, at least now the stage for the events has finally been set and I can focus on the actual progression of plot.