Chapter 9: Chaos
As always, none of these characters belong to me, they are the sole property of the Capcom corporation.
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Lord Spencer?, a voice chimed through the monitor.
Extremely irritating, Ozwell thought to himself. It's such a tragedy that Sophie isn't still here. . .if only she'd chosen an older vintage. . ., he lamented for a moment. He turned to the new girl, this one was imported from some exotic island.
What is it Nella?, he replied as he absently pushed a stray strand of hear from his face. The face on the monitor was expressionless.
You have a transmission from Commander Ginovaef., she said with a slight accent at the Russian's name.
This intrigued Spencer. Patch Nicholai through. Immediately the monitor flickered and changed from an exotic young woman to an gruff and severe looking caucasian man.
Nicholai Ginovaef immediately bowed. Lord Spencer., he said in acknowledgment of the other man's superiority.
Very clever., Ozwell noted. Greetings, Commander, I hope that your recent appointment to the overseer of the Umbrella Special Forces has been quite fulfilling? Spencer immediately noted the man's attempt to conceal a scowl.
Quite fulfilling. Nicholai said stiffly. However, there's been a recent course of developments that I thought I should personally report to you. It involves the recent security breach at one of our Canadian branches as well as the older attack one of the Japanese installments.
Spencer raised an irritated eyebrow. He didn't have time for the rest of the world's petty squabbles. What of these recent attacks, Commander?
Nicholai paused for a second our of surprise for his superiors disinterest. Are you not concerned about the recent attacks by H.C.F. agency?
They're merely annoying flies that buzz by our ears., Spencer replied. If they don't directly threaten the research of this facility, it isn't my concern.
Nicholai suppressed an urge to protest, instead trying to rephrase his report. 2 hours ago we received an anonymous communiqué that revealed the location of a previously unknown H.C.F. facility; it is believed that the traitor Albert Wesker is also within the vicinity.
This caught Spencer's ear. I see, and was this anonymous source valid? He drummed a manicured finger on the panel in anticipation.
Yes, our reconnoissance points to a rather large military compound in the wilderness above North Dakota., Nicholai paused.
I see. . .if that is the case, order an attack. Send in all the resources you require; crush this nest of insects. The drumming stopped. Spencer instead moved his hand to key board and hit a button. You've been authorized.
Shall we utilize any B.O.W.s? There was anticipation on the old veterans features. We have several Nemesis Delta's that need actual combat testing.
Spencer smiled. I leave that to your fine judgment, commander. It was always good to keep happy employees, they worked harder. However, as Spencer strictly believed, it was also necessary to punish employees if they made any transgressions; betrayal being unforgivable. Let's see how you handle yourself, Albert., Spencer smiled to himself.
, Nicholai said slightly, wondering what the other man was talking about. It is also believed that this is where the stolen experiments are being kept, shall we try and reclaim them?
If the opportunity presents itself., Spencer replied simply. None of the test subjects are vital; their data has already been recorded.
Nicholai said as the communication signal was cut. Only the silent glow of the monitors gave any indication of movement in the private chamber.
After a couple of seconds, Spencer rose and walked toward the exit of the room; a large metal door with a number of mechanical scanners on it. The flashed a bit as a retinal scanner lowered itself and scanned the pale man's eye. ID Confirmed. Welcome, Lord Spencer., the computer said monotonously. The heavily reinforced door led down to a metal hallway, the floor being a flat escalator. Spencer stepped onto the ground and pressed a button on the railing. The metal panels along the the wall suddenly retracted, revealing transparent glass that allowed one to see numerous laboratories bellow.
, the enigmatic individual said to himself as he gazed down at all the white clad individuals conducting their research. Ozwell was pleased with the productivity and efficiency of his employees; all of them contributed to his vision, either with their minds. . .or their bodies.
He briefly thought of Sophie. I wonder when they'll wake you up. . .you'll be so very grateful for your enhanced body., he spoke aloud again. For around five minutes the conveyer floor moved him passed more and more laboratories, although by this point, the floor had actual shifted to being a true escalator and was now descending even further into the ground. It's a pity that the Sanctuary couldn't have been constructed with a view of the mountains., he thought. The purity of the snow is always a nice reminder of our Ultimate Vision.
Up ahead, even larger and thicker metal door appeared. They were marked with a large umbrella logo. A simple hole was carved into the side of the wall. A simple lock that would only fit his pendant. This was his private entrance into the single most secure location on the planet, deep in the bowls of the Himalayan mountains; Umbrella's terminal facility: The Sanctuary.
Even now the construct amazed Spencer, it had taken decades to even break ground, countless lives had been lost in the perilous environment, not to mention the unimaginable financial costs, yet the facility had finally been completed. Although Umbrella as a corporation had many installations around the globe, each vying to create the ultimate biological weapons, the Sanctuary was totally different. It was the single most important facility from which Ozwell Spencer ruled over even the most insignificant detail. He was literally God in this place, everything existed to serve his vision. A vision that Umbrella existed in to only further his own. He knew that some of the other founding families were beginning to question his authority. Spencer couldn't help but accept that it was inevitable. Even he saw how his very existence could be some what dubious in the eyes of the current generation. First it had been the Ashfords, and although their bid for power had ended with the destruction of the T-Veronica Virus in the Antarctic wastelands, the other families were also beginning to plan their own inaugurations into power. This mildly upset Spencer, in a way, he felt as if it were his own children betraying him. Still, they are insignificant in the grand scheme., he thought to himself as he placed the pendant in the hole. After a few moments the massive metal doors opened in grand gesture of power. Beyond them, bathed in pure white light, was a laboratory made from steel and glass, unlike any in the world. In its center, the expectant mother basked in her pre-maternal glory.
One of the scientists almost jumped out of his quarantine suit when he realized that Spencer had entered the lab. L-lord Spencer?! I didn't see you, forgive me for not welcoming you sooner.
Spencer waived the man off. No matter. How is she doing?
The man quickly produced a computer graph of data. The embryo has almost gestated, are preliminary tests show that viral development has just begun. It's quite amazing. The man said in selfish awe, as if he had something to do with the process of creation Spencer had solely planned.
Quite so., he said simply. Spencer turned toward the mass of tissue in the luminous specimen tank. Soon Lisa. . .soon all my dreams come true. You must be so happy., he said in total honesty. He placed a pale hand up to the frigid glass, much like how a husband would feel the kicking of his unborn child. This child is the future. My future.
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Something wasn't right. Another dull boom' echoed down the hall ways, still rather far from her cell. Sherry gazed intently at the door, half expecting to see a zombie burst through. It had been a very normal day, she had woken up and eaten the same tasteless porridge they always fed her. After that it was a quick shower and then the doctor would come in and interview her. After lying about being perfectly happy she spent another hour or two reading her text books, hoping to learn as much as she could. In some part of her mind, she knew that it was awkward that she would want to study, yet another part of her said that information was the key to her freedom. The rest of her time was devoted to finding out who the mysterious young man she had seen was. Since the initial encounter she had heard only whispers among the guards and scientists she passed as she was marched around the compound; nothing useful. She also assumed that the recent edginess among the soldiers had to do with the fact that Wesker was still in the complex, going about his normal sneaky business.
It had been just after her recreational time in the field when the sirens had gone off. In almost a second she was rushed back into her room and the lock sealed. Speakers around the facility were blaring, Warning: Biohazard detected! Quarantine lock down commencing! The guards lining the halls were panicking, some of them were reusing around in containment suits. Sherry had immediately feared that the T-Virus or some other atrocity had escaped. It had been an hour now, there was no movement from the outside world. Even the camera that constantly watched her was powered off. Just as she had concluded that indeed this was another Raccoon city type scenario, the whole facility had shook. Loud booming sounds filled the air. Sherry had momentarily feared that her enclosed cell was going to collapse, but the reinforced prison held.
What's going on?, she thought to herself. Is someone attacking this place? Her heart momentarily skipped. Claire's come to save me!, she suddenly thought. Quickly glancing around the room she realized that she had no weapons Oh no! What if they can't find me?, her thoughts raced around. Oh no! What if they've been killed?! Or what if Wesker doesn't want me to go so he'll have me killed?! Sherry suddenly stopped and tried to take deep breaths. I'm . . .I'm over reacting. . .it's probably something bad. . ., she couldn't help but feel immense disappointment. After a couple of moments another dull boon reverberated throughout the complex. This time it was followed by the unmistakable sound of screams and gun fire. Sherry snapped her head towards the door. I've got to get out of here!, she immediately thought to herself. Somethings gone wrong out there. . .I sure as hell am not going to end up eaten by some freakish mutant! The sounds of battle were getting closer. Just as she was about to throw her desk at the door in order to try and break it down, I high pitched whistle noise that seemed to be getting louder filled the room. What is that?, she wondered., it reminded her of some war movies and cartoons she had seen. Oh God!, she realized as she dove to the floor as the missile exploded somewhere near the prison complex. The lights went out, blanketing the young woman in darkness.
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, Chris yelled as he dove for cover, bullets whizzing only millimeters from his skin. The radio had been the one to suffer the brunt of the assault. Chris hastily tumbled behind an exposed bulkhead, quickly unlocking the safety on his custom beretta. He heard shots from somewhere else in the power room; they sounded like Jill's gun. The machine gun fire paused just long enough and suddenly Chris was joined by his long time comrade.
What the hell is going on?!, Jill gasped. As soon as the lights came back on we're being fire at! Was it the freakin computer?!
Chris fired some return shots before turning to look at her. I don't think so. . .the way we're being shot at is defiantly from something mobile. . .it must be a person., he suddenly stopped and his eyes widened. Oh God! Jill, your arm–
Calm down, Redfield., she winced at the blood wound that ran from her upper arm to her elbow. It's just a flesh wound, not fatal. She quickly tore part of her coat and tied it around her arm as a make shift bandage. But it hurts like hell though!
They both paused as they heard the distinctive sound of foot steps against metal.
He's circling us., Chris whispered. He glanced towards the bullet riddled door. That's the only way to get back into the main chamber.
, Jill said wryly. And here I thought we weren't supposed to be in mortal danger. She quickly checked her rounds. Damn, I should've packed another magazine. You'd think it be second nature by now.
Chris shook his head. I've only got a half a clip left. He shook his head in exasperation. And here we are expecting some bio weapon. At least zombies don't fire back at you– Before he could continue he was interrupted by another spray of gunfire, this time the rounds were much more focused; whoever was shooting was experienced.
, Chris whispered. Start firing and confuse him, I'll try take him out. He was about to lunge when she sharply pulled him back.
Have you gone insane?! You'll get yourself killed., although her tone was harsh her face was filled with concern. I'm not going to lose you!
He stared back into her eyes. If we don't we're sitting ducks. His eyes widened when he heard the distinctive click of a magazine being reloaded into a submachine gun. Jill's face deathly white as they both looked up from behind their make shift barricade. Holding an extremely mean looking fire arm was a black clad figure with a helmet that made it impossible to see its features.
, a gruff male voice said through the thick helmet. This mission wasn't worth Death's time; you're weak prey. He took a menacing step forward. The illustrious S.T.A.R.S. doesn't live up to their name. He aimed the gun. But a mission's still a mission.
, Chris yelled. Why are you trying to kill us?! He put a protective arm in front of Jill. Umbrella sent you, what are they paying you?! We could match it! He was honestly becoming worried. Behind his back he could feel Jill trying to reload her weapon. If I can distract him long enough then she'll get a clear shot., he thought silently.
The figure laughed. Do you think I'm in this for the money?! I'm in this for the fight., he suddenly fired a burst right above Jill's head; she dropped her gun in surprise. I'm not stupid. You may be weak but a cowered animal can still maul you at the last minute. The three night vision lenses focused on Chris and Jill's face. In all honesty, the computer gave me more trouble., he gestured to the walls around them. And all I had to do was pull her plug.
Jill gave a bitter laugh. And to think after surviving Umbrella's abominations for all these years we're gunned down by some psycho. She defiantly stood up. If you're so eager for a fight, then I'll give you one! What are you, a coward?!
The figure paused. You're a woman. You're weak., he looked down at Chris. You're even more pathetic, having a woman stand up for you.
Why you–, Chris bellowed and charged towards the soldier. He was surprised when the man failed to fire on him. Instead, he actually tossed the gun aside and took up a fighting stance. Big mistake–, Chris thought as he went in for a killer jab to the soldier jaw. His mind went black as a black gloved hand smashed into his solar plexus and sent him flying g backwards. What the–
, Jill screamed as she saw the soldier dispatch Chris before he even made contact. She rushed over to her fallen team mate, terrified to see that there was a trickle of blood running down his lip. Oh God, he's bleeding internally!, she mentally choked. He might die. . . Something snapped inside of Jill Valentine. She stately rose to her feet and turned to face the masked soldier. She through off her cap and goggles and lifted her arms in a fight stance. You'll pay for that bastard. A deep feral roar suddenly burst from inside of her and she charged with a viscousness that would have made even the Nemesis reconsider its attack.
The soldier easily side stepped her attack and closed his almost impossibly strong fingers around her throat. Powerful. You're a true lioness, coming to defend your mate. A snicker emitted from behind the mask. At least you've made this entertaining. Be pleased that Death himself is here to send you on your way.
Jill was beginning to black out as the grip tightened. She pleadingly tried to turn her head towards Chris's unconscious form; struggling to free herself from the vice like grip around her. How can this be? I've faced tyrants. . .the Nemesis. . .almost every Goddamn mutant Umbrella could throw at us. . .but I'm being choked to death by another human? She gasped as the last of the air was pushed from her lungs. Her vision was now almost completely black, the crushing sensation in her lungs had begun to ease, yet she knew it only meant her body was preparing to die. No. . .I don't want to die. . .I can't die! Chris and I–, she began to cough and gag suddenly as the pressure on her throat suddenly stopped. She heard a deep yelp as the hand that dropped her immediately retracted. Falling to the ground, her body convulsed as it tried to take in air. What happened?!, was the most she could accomplish in terms of coherent thought. She was marginally aware that the soldier was no longer facing her, but instead, seem focused on a new individual in the room.
Why don't you pick on some body your own size?
Jill stared at the person who had just offered the taunt to the seemingly unstoppable soldier. Alice's eyes were like daggers as they focused on the helmet covered face in front of her. The soldier in turn, was holding his side in pain; Alice had delivered a swift kick causing him to release Jill.
She got into the room without him noticing? , she thought. What is she thinking, she's going to get herself killed! She began to slowly crawl towards Chris to see if he was all right, her other goal was to see if she could get his gun. Shooting that bastard would be too honorable., she thought. Just as she reached Chris she unconsciously turned to see a spectacle that she'd never think possible.
It was almost like a scene out of a martial arts movie. Jill had assumed that Alice was physically fit; a perfectly logical conclusion when considering the other woman's figure. But this defied all convention.
Alice suddenly sprang towards the soldier in a feline like pounce, yet as he assumed she was trying to tackle him, he made that the mistake of trying to side step and grab her. In that split second of miscalculated timing, Alice suddenly rolled to the floor and performed a swift swept with her right leg, causing the soldier to lose his balance. Just as he began to fall her left leg erupted in a powerful kick to his chin that sent him upwards. In that instant she was on her feet and her fists became a torrent ferocious blows to the man's chest with a final uppercut to his chin. The crack of metal and plastic was heard as the helmet fractured in several places, the soldier stumbled backwards holding his face.
Alice glared at the man. I'm one tough bitch! Had enough?! Yet even her expression became one of confusion as she heard a muffled laughter emitting from the repelled attacker. There was a slight hissing noise as the helmet fell to the ground. A bloodstained face glared back at her, yet there was excitement in his almost inhuman looking gaze.
This was the challenge I was looking for!, he said as spit blood from his mouth. He wiped away some of the trickle from the cut on his head, staining his cropped blonde hair an odd orange. You're a worthy adversary for Death. His laughter suddenly stopped. This makes the mission worthwhile.
You're crazy., she said in awe. You're sick. . .
The almost crazed man smiled at her. If I may, what is you're name? You're the first person that's been worth my time. His smile increased as he felt the cuts on his body, obviously invoking a great deal of pain. Not even a B.O.W. could do this.
Alice took a step backwards towards Jill and Chris. She slightly turned and whispered towards Jill. This guy's messed up.
No, really?!, Jill hissed back. She paused as Chris moaned slightly, he was returning to consciousness. ALice looked relieved.
Try and get out of here. I'll deal with Mr. Death., she said grimly. She suddenly paused when she realized that the soldier had retrieved his machine gun.
You've made this mission valid. He said as he trained the weapon on her. Too bad the mission is to leave no survivors. He glanced at Jill. You too, lioness'. It's been an enjoyable challenge to hunt you. He returned his gaze to Alice. Will you still not tell me your name?
You first., the proud woman spat at him.
He raised a bloody eye brow. Perhaps you do deserve something other than my call name. He raised the weapon. Hunk. Satisfied?
Alice glared back at him. Fine. Alice.
Good bye, Alice., Hunk said casually as he pulled the trigger. Jill unintentionally closed her eyes and held on to Chris. Yet after a couple of moments of silence, she realized she was still alive. She quickly glance around. Hunk was on the ground. Blood was leaking from side. Barry stood uneasily by the door, his custom magnum still smoking.
Did I miss anything., he said groggily. He was about to slump to the floor when Alice quickly rushed to support him. Thanks, I was wondering when you were going to wake up.
He mumbled a bit but seemed to have trouble forming words.
Barry?! Are you all right?, Jill asked with total concern.
Alice shook her head. Long story, the Red Queen has a thing for tranquilizer darts. How's Chris?
He was hit pretty hard. Jill lightly touched his face as she began to lug a very confused and pain filled Chris Redfield towards the exit.
Did I get him?, said as he wiped the dried blood from his mouth.
Jill and Alice couldn't help but burst out laughing. , Jill said affectionately. You're a real knight in shining armor.
Alice gave a slight smile at the two's closeness. I guess that puts me on the waiting list. . ., she smiled inwardly. But. . .I'm happy for them. . .
Oh. . .what happened to the computer anyway?, Jill asked as they made their way back towards the main chamber.
I shut her off and pulled out the mother boards., the other woman replied. She lifted a data disk. I also got all of her data. Alice shrugged. I guess our mission' was successful. We should gather up the only equipment we need.
Jill stuck out her tongue. That sicko back there was worse than any B.O.W. I've ever faced. Even Wesker seemed more stable than that. . ., the former delta squad soldier shook her head. It's sad that someone would find pleasure in pain . . .talk about a death complex.
Alice nodded as they found themselves right outside of the door that led down to the Queen's chamber. So what do we do?, Chris asked groggily. Barry had meanwhile retrieved a radio and was trying to contact Carlos, Rebecca, and Claire.
, Rebecca said excitedly over the static. Are you guy's all right?! It's almost been half an hour and we couldn't contact you! We were just about to come back down! Hey, I'm talking, Claire!
There was a slight increase in interference as it seemed Claire also wanted to use the radio. Chris?! Jill?! You guys had us worried! What the hell happened?!
Woah! Calm down, sis, we're all in one piece. . .more or less anyway., Chris said warily. Oh, and could you guys call the chopper and tell them to get here as quickly as possible?
Carlos had separated the two younger woman from the radio. Great to hear from you man, but isn't it too risky to call the chopper?
No. . .Umbrella knew we were here. . .why they didn't send more people is beyond me, but let's not push our luck. Still, they'll probably send more people in soon., Chris said grimly. Over and out.
, the other voice cut the transmission.
Well, at least Hunk' didn't give them any trouble. . .although seriously, why didn't they send more people if they consider us a threat?, Jill said questioningly. Or are we not at the top end of their priorities?
Alice raised an eyebrow. They probably thought that the Red Queen would be able to handle us. . .although I'm sure the data we took will give us a much better insight into what Umbrella's true motives are. The experienced operative turned to Chris and Barry. I think our work here is done. . . we could just leave the scrambled circuit boards and stuff, and hope Umbrella never comes down here again. . .
Jill raised an eyebrow. Or. . .?
We blow Raccoon City another crater.
Do we even need to question our choice?, Barry said gruffly as he held his head. Damn computer, this feels like the worst hangover ever!
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The emergency-evacuation helicopter charged away as the crater that marked Raccoon City's former location began to implode. Within a couple of minutes the sinking ground broke to reveal fire balls and smoke erupting out of the deeply buried structure of the Hive. All of the group looked exhausted as they sat back in the chopper, trying to relax after the unexpectedly difficult mission. Rebecca was busy with trying to treat everyone's wounds, while Carlos and Claire seemed more miffed that they hadn't seen any action. Barry was already sleeping, the tranquilizer dart's venom not quite filtered out of his blood stream. Chris was sitting next to Jill, feeling a bit awkward yet happy at the fact she was leaning her shoulder on him. Alice sat across and was watching the destruction of structure that had been the origin of her conflict.
Jill sat up slightly and glanced at Alice. You okay?
The other woman seemed a bit surprised but turned from the window. Yeah. . .it's just a little strange. . .it's like I'm finding some closure. . .but I'm also feeling the need for vengeance against Umbrella even more. She brushed a stray strand of hair from her eye. I guess I'm going to be with you guys for the long haul.
Jill smiled. Welcome aboard., she paused. To be honest, I didn't trust you at first. . . but I just wanted to say thanks. Alice gave her quizzical look. For saving us down there.
Alice shrugged. No problem, you put up quite a fight as well.
Jill laughed. Right, I was like an annoying Chihuahua trying to take down a bull. Her eyes suddenly widened. By the way, where the hell did you learn to kick ass like that?!
Alice began to burst out laughing. Oh, just some school girl day training. . .to be honest, the first time I did that, or at least remember doing it, I had no memory, it was like, woah, why am I Bruce Lee?!', only I didn't know who Bruce Lee was at the time.
Jill sighed and leaned on Chris. I just want a vacation, a nice trip to Hawaii maybe. At least before the next mission.
Alice's gaze hardened and she glanced back at the dust cloud forming above the crater. The next mission. . ., she said softly. Matt. . .Rain. . .Kaplan. . .I'll avenge you guys, I'll get even for everyone. . .I swear.
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That had been a close call. Not even when facing the G-Type had he been so close to himself. Death smiled as he fell against the Umbrella retrieval chopper. A medic tossed him a first aid spray before checking his gun shot wound. Even he had been unsure if he could survive an actual magnum shot, but it seemed that he was invincible.
Only Death survives., he said heartily as the bandages were wrapped around him. The medic and other soldiers ignored him.
Agent Hunk, were you successful in your mission?. the captain droned on. Death ignored him.
Agent Hunk?!, the small man whined. Hunk gave him a look that caused the captain to flinch.
, the pilot interrupted them. We will be out of the shockwave's range in thirty seconds.
Distracted, the captain ignored the uncooperative agent. Good, at least that's one less liability we need to worry about. No one's going to care if there's another crater where Raccoon was.
Sir, HQ is demanding to know what's going on, they're surveillance equipment is detecting the underground tremors form the Hive., the pilot continued. What should I tell them?
The captain looked thoughtful. Tell them that thanks to me, the S.T.A.R.S. threat has been eliminated. He glowered at Hunk.
Death didn't bother responding, his thoughts were elsewhere. We'll meet again very soon, Alice. . ., he grinned as he said her name.
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Okay, a very long time between updates, sorry, I've been busy. I honestly didn't know too much about Hunk's character so sorry if I portrayed him as a little crazy. Anyway, I'll try to keep writing this story as long as I have time, I may not in the future. At least I got done with the whole Hive part. I hope more people review at least! Also, I was going to include a scene where Alice talks to the Red Queen before setting the self destruct, but the chapter was kind of long as it was. Tune in next time, same time, same place, for Biohazard: Dark Vision!
