Disclaimer: This was missing in chapter 1, and I'm sorry about that. I
don't own any characters or creatures in this story, besides Tisha, Jake,
Cadman, Nataku, Misty, All of Dynavein, Sweet Tooth, Rogue Shinobi, Jones,
And The SIGMA, . All other things belong to Tecmo Inc, but the Grendel
creature in this is credited to Jerry Pournelle, Steven Barnes, and Larry
Niven's novel The Legacy of Heorot.
Episode 3
Event Horizon
Part 1
Remembrance
Garret gazed at what was NEO GENESIS. It was a reincarnation of Sigma, the dreaded alien warrior that had wreaked havoc on the Dead Or Alive competitors and killed many. A silvery gray creature, it still resembled a creature of mass destruction. Garret's left hand, absent-mindedly, grazed the massive scar left by his first encounter with that creature. A deep, ugly scar across his gut and a nasty set of rounded disfigurements across his left eye and cheek. It had mutilated him, and a passing group of security guards had rescued him. Now, he thought, I will master it. "Sir, we have encountered a difficulty." Garret turned to face his head scientist, Adrik Pyotr, "What's wrong Adrik? A technician screw up again and destroy the system?" Adrik didn't take the friendly joke well, and remained stone-faced, "De DNA has been corrupted. It oxides, destroying some of chemicals. We managed save most of it-" "Most doesn't help, Adrik! I need it all!" The Russian bio-chemist shivered at Garret's cold words. Adrik knew his commander's secret; what happened to him. He'd been to Hell and back, and Adrik respected that. Garret sighed, ".What have we lost?" Adrik pulled a clipboard from a pocket in his white overcoat, and examined it, "we lost another 13% of the DNA. We'll just need to substitute more of Subject Beta's DNA into it." Garret despised the term. Jake had escaped, and destroyed his guardian creature, the Grendel. And it was a child! The Grendel didn't deserve death at its tender age. It had the intelligence of a baby gorilla. It did what it was told to do, nothing more. That bastard would pay! Not just for the Grendel's death, but for his injuries and Marisa! Yes, he would pay! "Proceed. Alert me when the cloning is completed. I wish to see the creature after." Adrik frowned, his lips pushed out, showing a dubious expression, "Are you sure that is wise?" "I am certain, Adrik." Adrik lowered his head, in submission to his commander's orders, yet something gnawed at his sub-concious. He couldn't quite place it, but it seemed dangerous to put Garret in that situation. "Adrik," Garret raised the Russian's chin with that word, "We've been through a lot. I won't forget what you did for me." Adrik shifted, bouncing from one leg to another, suddenly aware of his own discomfort. Damn! He'd finally gotten used to it, "It hurt anymore?" Garret asked. "No, just," he paused, grunting over his obvious soreness, "it feels strange." Garret sighed, and stood from his desk, rounding the bend, he placed his hands on Adrik's shoulders, "I have to thank you again. You saved my life." "Just my duty, sir." "Oh, Adrik! You were the best man at my wedding in '94, for God's sake! Call me Garret." "Whatever you, say, sir." Garret smiled and walked back to his seat, Adrik never ceases to amaze me with his loyalty. "Dismissed, Adrik. Proceed with NEO GENESIS." Adrik nodded and turned toward the door which opened automatically, the above head camera detecting his motion. When Adrik had finally left, Garret leaned back in his chair and pondered his thoughts. NEO GENESIS was being altered for his revenge, but was it the smart thing to do. The new Grendel in position, this one an adult to be sure no one got in, this creature had ransacked a whole island before, and a lethal assassin created by Dynavein already out of control, was this the most profound, and intelligent thing to do? No, it was wrong to just let Jake get away unpunished for what he'd done! He let him and Bruce for dead, abandoned them. He let Marisa fall to it, and he got off scot free? No. He and his crazed friends must pay for their reign of terror.
Part 2
Encounters
Sweet Tooth rolled, pulling his katana up, deflecting his enemy's double hack. The twin blades gleamed in the sunlight, and Sweet Tooth squinted, trying to see the face under the assailants hood. A sweeping kick, low, knocking his opponent down, gave Sweet Tooth the split second he needed to get a few feet of breathing room. This was going on too long, he, a super ninja, was tiring, and this man hadn't even broke into any heavy breathing. Nto a drop of sweat, or blood had fallen, and Sweet Tooth, for the first time, felt the grip of sheer terror. The fear of death. A blood-crimson robe flew through the air, as the assailant actually spun on angle, coming up to his feet from his back. "Who are you?" Sweet Tooth demanded, readying himself for another storm of blades. "Me? I'm just a concerned citizen, helping to clean up our fair world! Now, feel steel!" The assailant feinted to the left, and ran to the right, bringing in a low slash at Sweet Tooth's vulnerable stomach. A quick back step saved Sweet Tooth's intestines from daylight, and his gut from being seared by cold metal. Second, came a high slash at the side of Sweet Tooth's head. With no time to dodge, Sweet Tooth raised his own blade up, repelling the blow. Forced to back pedal again, Sweet Tooth finally caught a glance at what was under that hood. A man with sharp features, flowing black and sliver hair, and deadly green eyes stabbed out at him from the darkness. "Rogue Shinobi? No! You're dead!"
* * *
"Faster, Cadman! You can do better than this!" The cold, feminine voice cut through Cadman's heart like a heated spear. He dared to challenge her, if only to hear that voice. Christie sunk low in her posture, and charged at her friend and opponent, all at once. Cadman side stepped, and rolled, missing Christie's extended kicking leg by a millimeter. He continued the roll, furthering himself from Christie's deadly kicks. He felt pressure to his left; the wall of the room. Sparing a glance left, he saw Christie charging at him, not an emotion showing on her face. The assassin loved the challenge of fighting Cadman, if only to sharpen her own skills and pass the time. Seeing her low charge, and the opportunity, Cadman placed his left foot high on the wall, raised his right, so he was standing on the wall for brief moment. Before gravity could work it's magic, he pressed off and flipped over Christie's head. She ducked, placed her hands on the ground ,and kicked up, hitting nothing but air. Cadman felt the pressure of the ground, underneath his feet moments later. Kicking backwards, if only to confuse her, the SAS agent ran forward, at the opposite wall. Jumping up, placing his feet on that wall, he launched himself, horizontally at Christie's defenseless back, fists forward. She reached back, grabbed onto his hands, and flipped him over her head, so that he landed, in a sitting position, his back to her. The situation flipped she planted her foot on his neck, made a slight motion and said, "Kill!" Cadman groaned in defeat, as he slowly rose, favoring his protesting muscles and ligaments. The battle hadn't been easy, and he'd still lost; dead even. "The saying is true, Cadman," Christie said, "You only get better with age!" A slight chuckle graced him, as he remembered the days. Was it only two years ago? When he met her? And. Christie frowned at the memories that brought back, "It's over. You can't change it." "I need to be getting home," he wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, and suddenly noticed exactly how. wet, from sweat she'd gotten. He shook his head, and turned away, grabbing a towel. It was cold, you can't change the past, Cadman. Accept it, for once, eh? He thought to himself. "Good luck with the tournament!" Cadman called over his shoulder, as he left the training room. Many others in the room, and he walked past another pair who were sparring, as he left, still blotting his face, trying to get rid of hard recollections.
"Faster, Misty!" Jones swept the staff up, blocking as many of Misty punches as he could. Her objective; to land a hit. If she could get past a weapon she should be able to continue in the tournament. Tina would be no easy challenge. A pair of low punches, a high kick, and an impressive spin punch/kick she learned from Ayane; all blocked successfully. "Ergh!" Misty moaned as she threw a final punch, her strength waning. It was a trick; Jones would push it aside, throwing the blow to his left, and his defense that way. A successful half spin could then land an elbow into his side. Her strategy worked, and so did the move. "Ouch! Better!" "Are you my boyfriend or a personal trainer?" Misty asked. Jones grinned, mischievously, "Maybe both!" She playfully lobbed at cold towel at him, and got one for herself. Wrapping it around her neck, she instantly felt the blazing stream of heat leave her body. The cold was a welcome addition to her heated body, the numbing having a therapeutic effect. She still had nightmares. Glancing at her teacher, Ayane, she suddenly felt a wave of sympathy for the cold leader of the ninja clan Hajinmon. She had had a close encounter with SIGMA twice, and Misty didn't want to have it the first time. Ayane, her quick, lethal moves doing nothing, he once ultra- powerful skill suddenly nil, and unable to assist her in her time of need. It was. frightening. And, Misty thought, hat things were getting bad to worse, as she scanned the room, and spotted the sudden arrival of a newcomer. "This is a private training room. Ya want an autograph, there's a session at five, after the third match every day," Jones said, standing in intruder's way. Jones was thrown aside like so many strands of hay. And it was far from over. A flash of crimson, and blue, and the battle ended before it began.
Part 3
Captive
Jake blinked, his vision smudged, unclear. The ice cold feel of liquid around him, helped to numb his body. It was tube; an all too familiar tube. It was almost like a big test tube. It was the tube he'd seen SIGMA in, almost six years ago. Jake, suddenly, emptied his lungs into the liquid, panicking. He threw his fists against the sides of the plexi-glass cylinder. He pounded, as fast as his body could move. He held his breath, trying to not breath in the ominous green liquid. He finally caved, the liquid plunging into his lungs, and all was dark. When he awoke again, he found that he was able to breath, in the liquid. It was pumped heavy with oxygen. He felt of sense of panic flow through him. He had no idea where he was, yet he could see thing's remarkably clearly. The panic, quelled by rising questions, faded from his mind, and Jake cocked his head, trying to gather in what was around him. The liquid made things outside the tube difficult to see, because of the light refraction, but he could get a general idea. There were people, men and women. All seemed to be watching him. There were computers, and consoles, not terraced like he remembered the place to have been, though. A dream? He thought. He absentmindedly scratched the back of his head, and felt the discomfort suddenly flow into his lungs again. He'd done this before, so he knew the technology behind it. A period of adjustment, and then you're fine. However, if you panic during the adjustment, you could die. They must've pumped a sleep toxin into the water to calm me down. "Welcome, Jake. Welcome to vengeance." Jake recognized that voice, and his skin turned a pale green next to the liquid, "No. How? It's not possible."
* * * * *
Cold. they were so cold. They burned her skin, the metal rings clanging against each other as Misty yanked on the chains, franticly trying to get loose. Taking a quick glance around, she saw them all. They were all there; Jones, Kasumi, Ayane, Hayate, Hayabusa, herself, and hapless Christie, who got caught in the mess. There were two empty sets of chains, with two names scribbled, one each. One said Nataku. Misty didn't have to read the other to know who would've been in it, if they hadn't died. "Okay, children! Time to face what you are." Misty turned her head back, trying to discern the source of the large voice, "Who are you?" Misty's head snapped around, the metal chains making a strange, ghostly sound. She felt shivers go up her spine and arms as a door opened, the familiar creaking of an old, un-oiled wooden door screeching it's wails of torment as the hinges attempted to open the door with ease, failing. In the doorway stood a man. He was neither tall, nor short, clad in a strange leather armor, covering his torso. The rest was a tunic, and baggy pants. He seemed to be almost Renaissance, except for the simple aura of him. A deep scar was laid across his left eye, reducing the eye to less than useless. "Misty, I presume?" All the people turned the heads toward him, querying gazes filling their faces and eyes. All except Jones. He struggled, suddenly, against his restraints, attempting to get between the newcomer and Misty. The newcomer bowed, "Greetings, I am Garrett." Hayate caught onto it first, "You know Jake, from Elijah Isle." Garrett's head swerved, as if on a loose spigot, turning sharply toward the super ninja, ".Yes, I knew him. He. was a dangerous man to know at that crucial time." "Why?" Jones asked, leaning outward, at the end of the chains. Garrett marched to Jones, and stood just outside Jones's reach, " 'Why?' He abandoned dozens for dead, and left more to die, that's why! He killed me on that island. Now, he will pay." Garrett snapped his fingers, his eyes still not leaving Jones, "Begin the show," he said, a malicious grin on his face. The man stepped away, and they all watched as the wall directly in front of them opened up, revealing a kind of arena. Jake lay in the center, standing half-bowed, stumbling, just where he stood, and his right hand was raised, as if to ward off a blow, or screen his eyes from a bright light. The room in which Jake sat was large, an oval circle almost half the size of a football field. Almost ramp like walls kept those inside from getting out, and glass separated the spectator slots from the fighters. Armed gunmen stood in posts around the arena, guns at sides, and ready. Kasumi and Hayabusa put two and two together at the same time, "Don't do it Garret! He doesn't deserve death!" Hayabusa yelled. "Doesn't he?!" Garrett asked, "Did Marisa?" "Did Tisha?" Kasumi shot back. Garrett glared hard at Kasumi, soaking that lower verbal punch in, "How many have to die to let you know that he's the problem behind all of our problems?" Garrett whispered to Kasumi, just loud enough for Misty to hear, "He. is the one who brought it all. If only he could have stayed on the island, maybe Marisa. maybe." Garrett paused, and Jones could swear that the sparkle on Garrett's face were tears, He loved her. Jake didn't tell us that. Jones, and Misty watched helplessly as Jake stood slowly, suddenly looking straight at the reincarnation of an evil creature; SIGMA. But, something was wrong. Jake seemed more entranced with it. And, even standing at it's full glory, it didn't seem right, not to Ayane. She'd been captured by it twice, and she'd seen it in it's full glory. This certainly wasn't it. Something was wrong with it. "Tisha was the first attempt at Genetic Enhancement by Dynavein. It failed, and she escaped," Garrett said in a monotone. "What?" Was the general response throughout the group. "After her escape, Tomlinson tried to eliminate this security threat." Misty sank in her chains, "Drawing us all into the mix." Garrett smiled absently, "Jake is now the continuation of that project. It is his punishment; to live with is guilt and then die at my hands." He sharply waved his hand in front of the glass, and Misty felt the iron chains fall from her wrists and ankles, "I have no quarrel with the Dead or Alive fighters. My vendetta is with Jake. Leave us in peace." Ayane started to leave, but stopped, suddenly tense. Her eyes darted around the room. Misty noticed Kasumi in a similar stature, however, she hadn't moved. Misty scanned the room, and noticed the same thing they had. "We're. not alone." The window crashed, a lone figure's body hitting Garrett with full force, "Why was I invited to this party?" "Cadman!" Christie yelled, in more of surprise than relief. She followed the pair with a graceful jump to the arena floor, where the two now lay, sprawled. None noticed the true reason for Ayane's sudden worry, now caught up in the action. A shapeless form, moved near the walls. It cursed ,threw away it's robe, revealing it's true face. And it struck, with devastating skill. One thing stopped it. Twin blades met a katana, flying through the air toward the arena as well. Both wielders of the weapons, landed gracefully and soundlessly, on the other side of the arena from the others. "Toshi." Said the crimson caped sudden defender. "Rogue," The assailant said, pulling back, "All I want is Garrett. He's caused too much trouble for us all." "You want him? Or a fight?" Rogue Shinobi asked. "Very well, Rogue," Toshi said, formally bowing to the powerful opponent, "I shall not lose. Fight me, if you dare!"
Part 4
Understanding
The battle raged around Jake; guns firing, swords clashing, kicks landing and punching being blocked created a maelstrom of blood, sweat and tears. And he was oblivious. with good reason! The creature stared at him, and Jake stared right back, unmoving. He instinctively began backing away, but it didn't advance. Jake suddenly knew why. This. thing was different. It's head was shorter and fatter, it's mouth even, showing a pair of blue lips, and short, dull teeth. It's eyes were a cold, sky blue; color of Robins' eggs, Jake thought, remembering that beautiful color. A pair of pupils, sheer, black holes, sat in those pure blue eyes. Many of it's aspects remained; long, spiked tail, clawed hands, and color- shifting skin. But, there was a strange 'manner' to it, that was different. It sat, hunched, and watched him, it's head cocked to one side, examining him, and his movements. It's almost like a child! Jake thought. He slowly rose, still ignorant of the battle around him. His hand brushed it's cheek, and he could swear. it purred.
Cadman braced himself, and threw his body into Garrett's charging form. The glitter of a small blade in his hand, Garrett, propelled himself directly at his attacker. Cadman's blow hit low, his force sending both him and Garrett into the wall. The SAS operative took a chance, and glanced around him. He would receive no help from his Dead Or Alive friends. They had their hands full dodging bullets. And who were the two ninja guys? He wondered. But he had no time to formulate a guess, as Garrett pressed his own attack. The knife came up, and Cadman was forced to the ground, the knife landing neatly to the left of his head. Cadman lashed out, kneeing Garrett in the gut, forcing the man off of him. Wind brushed his face, and a snap to his left, near his chest, made him flinch. They were shooting at him. He got up, crouched, and ran, in irregular patterns, trying to get the shooter, to pick another, easier target. The strategy was working.
Misty kicked up, towards a gunmen's head. A perfect blow, right under the chin. The shooter slumped, either unconscious or dead. At this point, she didn't care. She grabbed the man's falling body, and pushed it forward, using it as a body shield from gun fire. Bullets punched into the man's chest. If he wasn't dead before, he was now. She shot a glance at her objective; Jones. He was trapped, punching out any gunmen who dare get too close, and hiding from the others. He wouldn't last. Not much longer, and Misty knew it. He was no martial artist. She pushed the body once more, sending the man into a group of machine gunners. The men fell under the weight of discharged bullets, and mutilated flesh.She charged straight forward, and stopped, looking at the sheer pain in front of her. "NOOOOO!"
Toshi, deflected his rival's first sword, and performed a perfect split, to avoid a second blow, to his neck. Bringing one foot around, the ninja attempted to knock Rogue down. Rogue, vaulted over the leg, and artfully, pulled one sword under each arm, and thrust back. The sound of tearing cloth and the feel of cold steel graced Toshi's senses. A burning sensation in his arm. But pain, could be subdued. Placing the pain in the back of his mind, the deep arm wound was no longer a factor, but the blood loss would be. The battle continued between the pair of ninjas. Every blow was countered and the stray bullet or two made things interesting. Random sparks from lucky bullet blocks made it a scene from an action film, but to Rogue and Toshi it was far from that. It was personal. "You. how do I know you?" Toshi asked. "HAHAHAHA! Me? I cleaned up a mess! A little o' this," CLANG! Their swords met! "a little o' that, and BOOM!" A scissor move from Rogue sent Toshi's sword flying, "The enemy is in the palm of your hand. What Rogue didn't see, was that Toshi took measures to be sure he didn't lose his weapon for long. Toshi gripped what seemed to be dead air, but he knew that he was gripping a small, tough, fishing line. Invisible to the careless eye, unless you're looking for it, and Rogue, wasn't looking for it. The string connected to the hilt of Toshi's customized katana. All he needed was a good angle, and velocity, and Rogue was his for the taking. Rogue began to gloat, as he stepped right into Toshi's needed vector. He held forth a medallion; a simple rounded piece of metal, with a familiar symbol. Toshi grasped his chest, where an identical one hung. The key to the past, and the door to his future. A flash; and he remembered it all. well, most of it. But, it was far too enough for him. The darkness enveloping his steps, and rivers of blood flowing down the hill. And all he could do, was follow the blood. "You. YOU BASTARD!" Toshi flisked his wrist. The katana gleamed a sliver hue as it soared through the air. Caught up in his own anger, Toshi couldn't think straight. Aim true and strength overpowering, the blade sung through the air, leaving a remarkable tone in the reverberating air. Rogue ducked, so that his left hand and sword touched the ground. His right came up, and sent the incoming katana straight up. Into Jones's chest. The man glared down at the curved blade now sticking out of his chest. A cry from Misty sent the arena into silence. Jones brought his hand down, felt the wound with his right hand. Examining the blood on his hand, he looked at it with almost misunderstanding. He raised his gaze toward Misty, who stood, quivering a feet meters away, dead riflemen at her feet. A single tear flew down her face as she knew Jones's deadly peril, from which their was no escape. Jones didn't cry, shout, or even groan in pain; he just stood for a moment, staring at the intricate Katana now sheathed in his blood and gore. He then, toppled, falling forward into the arena, itself. Rogue smiled, relishing in the kill, breathing in the dank air, and smelling the depth of Jones's fear, and desperation. And Toshi could only watch, the blood flow. And continue the battle. Toshi flung the blade from Jones's chest, sending the hapless man to his death at the floor. The katana, blood-drenched, reaching Toshi's hand, cut through the air, aiming for Rogue's neck. When suddenly, he wasn't there, "We shall meet again Toshi. But, now I see that this party is winding down. Until we meet again, fool!" And with a maniacal laugh, Rogue was gone. "Misty! Come on!" Ayane kicked a gunmen in the chest, grabbed an oblivious Misty by the wrist, and pulled her along. Misty could only watch Jones lay there, dying. And. she wasn't sure what to feel; Sadness? Fear? Maybe even remorse. But. she just didn't know.
Part 5
Uninvited Guests
Jake stood in the center of the Holiday Inn room that he'd rented. Everyone was there, even a now secluded Misty. Jake couldn't repair the damage Dynavein had done to her, but he'd sworn, on Marisa's grave, to bring it down. And now was the time. A clueless Cadman and Christie sat in one corner of the room, waiting for explanations. Christie knew about Dynavein, sure. She'd been on Elijah Isle. She'd hunted that. thing, with Lei-Fang. The thrill of it had been almost too much for her; almost. "Alright. You probably all want to know why I asked you here," Jake said, "It's about Dynavein." "We know why. But what about?" Hayate asked. Cadman leaned forward in his seat, and fingered the day old beard he'd grown. The sound of his fingers going over the whiskers sent shiver down his spine. Same effect as finger nails on a blackboard, He thought. "Dynavein has caused. havoc over the past few months-" "No shit!" Misty interjected, suddenly snapping her silence. The darkest portions of her mind awoke in anger. Anger at herself, anger at Dynavein, even anger at Jones. She didn't care. She was flat-out pissed off. Jake's eyes went to slits, dangerously. His glare was cold enough to freeze the sun, and Misty sat in her corner, fuming. "I propose that we shut it down. Permanently." "But how?" Hayabusa asked. Cadman leaned over to his left just a little, whispering, "What's with this big Jake guy?" Cadman asked Christie. The assassin summarized briefly, the events of Elijah Isle, and what she knew of the events prior to the tournament got into full swing. Cadman wasn't stunned. He was flat out terrified by what she told him. Aliens? Grendels? Cloning? But- why? Meanwhile, Jake had been talking, ". after that's done, my men and I will capture Garrett and key personal and evacuate to the base in the Mojave Desert. I expect you all to meet us there?" "Why the Mojave?" Cadman asked. Jake turned to the SAS operative, "There's an old bunker there. If Dynavein soldiers give pursuit, it's much easier to defend. The place is also riddled with trenches, making people difficult to find in them. A perfect defensive position. And a horrible choice! They can hit us from any direction in the trenches! But. you got a better one? Cadman asked himself, Didn't think so.
* * *
Jake arrived on time. The guards had just left, and Cadman was getting impatient. The gravel roof was easy to move on with no one to detect them. Jake, and few of his friends now stood on the roof. Cadman was crouched on the roof, watching the group get into position. Jake scaled the walls to the roof, Kasumi, Ayane and Misty were going in windows, and Hayate and Hayabusa were going right in the front door, looking completely normal. Well, sort of. "Check, one, two, three. can you here me, Hayabusa?" Jake asked, into his radio headset that he'd 'borrowed' from his DELTA base. Everyone in the group had them. Jake wiped his forehead of sweat as he waited for Ryu to respond. "How does this work?. Oh, Yeah, I hear you." Cadman smiled. "Alright, Jake, let's do it. Quick and simple," Cadman said. Jake nodded, "Code: Kunoichi. Begin operation." The few DELTAs who Jake had gotten began to go for the stairwell. Cadman took his pistols, knives and sword, and followed them. The men all had rifles, and a pair of extra cartridges of 5.56 ammunition if things got ugly. Only a few flights down, they found that the stairs ended in a large complex. The min lab. It was filled with tables, chairs and lab equipment. "Ya think someone who clones would be more organized!" "Shaddap, Greg!" Jake said. They fanned out across the room and searched for the control cards that would open key doors in the facility. The placed was messed up and there were numerous paths through it, and some overturned tables. No, Cadman thought, One large path going in a pattern. Cadman and Jake found an open door to the left of the place. The room inside was an office; Garrett's office. Cadman looked at Jake, and then at the enormous amount of blood turning the tan carpet a brilliant bronze. "Oh god!" Jake ran inside, and lifted the man's head back. A bright line was drawn across Garrett's neck, his face pale and eyes lifeless. Cadman pressed his back to one wall, then touched his ear, triggering the headset, "Ryu, Kasumi, back off. Garrett's dead. The Dynavein building's trashed, there's nothing left here." "We copy, heading for our exits." "Cadman," Cadman turned to Jake, who was pulling the dead corpse from the chair at his desk, "I can't leave him here." Cadman looked questioningly at Jake. Jake said, "I abandoned him once. I won't do it again." Cadman stared, knowingly at Jake, then gave a curt nod, and went to help with the body. "Something's here," Kasumi said. Jake and Cadman nearly dropped the body, "Ya got him?" Cadman asked, and Jake nodded. Cadman pulled his pistols and dropped into a combat stance, ready for an attack from any side. This was one hard trained warrior that wouldn't be ensnared in a trap so easy. He moved into the main room, "Talk to me, Kas!" "It's heading your way, fast. I can't catch it." Cadman blew air out of his mouth, giving a moment of static, "By all means, don't! Just get out of here! GET OUT!" "What the-!" The man never got another word out. IT got him. Cadman stood and glared at it. It must've been 13 feet long, and the exact description of a Grendel that Jake had given. "Doesn't that thing ever DIE?! HE rounds, Open fire!" Jake yelled, as he slammed the High Explosive cartridge into his rifle and aimed at it. But it was too fast for him to hope to catch it. "Cadman!"
"Go, Ryu, and don't make me tell ya twice," BLAM! BLAM! BLAM!
"CADMAN!" Ryu yelled into his microphone, went it suddenly went dead. He glared up at Hayate, then at the charges they'd placed on the building wall, next to several carts of gasoline. "Go, Hayate. I'll catch up with you!" "I don't think so. Keep the radio transmitter, and stay here. I'll go get Cadman out. Give me five minutes." "You know I'm faster, Hayate-san." There was a moment of silence as Hayate considered his options. HE raised his head, and said, "Good luck, and Godspeed."
Part 6
Strategic Retreat
"Jake, run! GO!" Cadman lifted his Colt M1911A1 pistols, aimed for the head of the Grendel, as he backpedaled toward the exit. The creature was almost on him. And in half a second it would be. Damn, it was fast. A black blur and it was right there, in his face, it's fangs gleaming in the dim lighting of the lab. Cadman fired, the small .45 ACP ammo sending his hands flying back as the bullets left the antechamber that was the pistols' barrel. The bullets were enough. The Grendel slowed down, grunting through the force of the blows. Cadman hadn't even made a step backwards. This time, he turned and ran up the steps, holding his guns behind him, firing blindly, as he retreated. The roof was three flights up, and the others had a head start. And it was so fast! A few lucky shots hit the Grendel, but not enough. It got his leg. Cadman's legs lit up in a painful, searing fire. It jerked as the Grendel dragged him back down the stairs. "CADMAN!" Jake called, still holding Garrett's corpse. "GO you mother fu- AAARRGGH!" Cadman broke off mid-sentence as the Grendel lashed him with it's tail spines, sinking their deadly hooks into his leg. With that tool, it dragged him off, out of Jake's sight. "EERRRRGGHH"' A shapeless form launched itself, crying a challenge toward the Grendel. Who was it? No. it couldn't be. Ryu thought from the shadows, SWEET TOOTH! The super ninja came forward and delivered a devastating kick to the Grendel's head. It flew. Literally, flew, it's talon-like tail spikes dislodging from Cadman mid flight. Cadman crawled away, favoring his bleeding thigh. The black cloth of his baggy pant leg darkened even further with the red blood staining it. Ryu made his move, pulling katana from his waist, and charging in at the vulnerable underbelly. Speed. It rolled over and swatted Ryu away in under half a second. But, it began to groan. Steam was coming from it's body. It was overheating. "I don't believe it." Cadman said, smiling weakly, as he used a table to pull himself to his feet. He'd figured out it's weakness. Sweet Tooth came in, fast and hard, slashing at the creature's face. It's hard armor wasn't enough to protect it from his super human strength. The creature collapsed. Sweet Tooth the super ninja hacked into it a couple more times, before pausing. He watched it bleed. His eyes went to slits. The super ninja spun, and Cadman was no where to be seen. What he didn't see was the Grendel actually getting up behind him. It ran him down, it's three hundred kilos of sheer muscle and bone crushing Sweet Tooth into the ground. It barreled up the stairwell; after the smell of blood. Sweet Tooth didn't move.
* * *
Cadman pushed the rooftop door open, Ryu helping him walk. Cadman limped to the lip of the building, and then glanced around the gravel covered roof. Despair filled within his heart when he realized they'd left without them. "Damn you, Vance!" HREEEEEE! Cadman flinched at the ear splitting shriek of a creature that was mad, bad and hurting. There it was, the Grendel punched through the concrete doorway, and it's steaming, overheating body charged right for them. Cadman pulled a throwing knife and readied himself. But he didn't have to. Ryu's hair was blown forward as a helicopter rose behind them, Jake sitting comfortably in the gunner's seat. The Grendel paused, and considered it's new foe. "Eat it, speedy Gonzalez!" Jake said, as he let the M60 go. Bullets, one after another hit it, and the Grendel never had a chance to recover. It collapsed, it's flesh mutilated, no longer even resembling a Grendel. "COME ON!" Jake cried, and he hauled Cadman and Ryu into the helicopter, "Colonel! Head for the Mojave Bunker! ASAP!" "I read you Vance! And Vance," Jake tilted his head to listen as Ryu climbed in, "Looks like my hands can work even tied up!" Jake laughed at the pun, and gave the signal for his Colonel to pull away.
No one saw the shadow leave out a window in the second floor, the building exploding behind him. The gas and fumes filling the entire complex, destroying all of Dynavein. Now, all Jake had to do was mop up. Or so he thought. For more trouble was hunting him than Dynavein.
Part 7
Trench Run
"I'm sorry, Adrik, but if you don't tell me where they went, I'll have to kill you. slowly!" Rogue sat, one of his swords pressed up against Adrik's neck, the other on the back of the neck, ready to cut the spinal column. "I. I don't know!" Adrik blurted. Rogue removed one sword from it's lethal pose, and slowly cut Adrik's arm. The Russian scientist grunted through the pain, "I.. I DON'T KNOW!" Rogue cocked his head, waited for a moment, then lopped on hand off of Adrik, "You'll talk," Rogue said, as Adrik screamed in pain, "Sooner. or later."
* * *
Jake sat in the co-pilot seat of the B2-12 helicopter, "Set her down there," Jake said, gesturing for the Colonel to land the 'copter near the trenches. The helicopter kicked up dust and dirt as it came in, landing neatly on the make-shit landing pad. The moment it touched down, Ryu and Cadman, with a now bandaged leg, hopped out. "Colonel-" Jake started. "Give 'em Hell, Jake. I always liked you," Colonel McClelland said, "Stay alive, buddy!" Jake nodded then jumped from the helicopter, dragging Garrett behind him. As soon as all were clear, the helicopter lifted off, and Jake's eyes stung with the dirt flying in small maelstroms left by his Colonel's departure. Jake watched him leave, then followed the others into the bunker to await the arrival of their allies. They all arrived soon after. Christie, Misty, Hayate, Kasumi, and Ayane sat in corners of the small bunker, as Jake dished out orders, "Alright, Kasumi, Ayane, Misty, and Hayate; all in the trenches. Move around at all times. And do quick hit and run strikes. Hayabusa, Cadman and I'll find a spot in the trenches to hold and defend as a small base HQ. Christie; you any good with one of these?" He held up a rifle. Christie identified it from a few feet away, along with some statistics; It was a Tactical Operations Tango 51 sniper rifle. It used 7.62 NATO ammunition, and packed a reasonable punch for it's size. It was a military rifle she'd used on several occasions to take out targets. She grinned, "If I'm not, I shouldn't be doing what I am for a living." Cadman smiled at her, and gave a special look that transferred some images she didn't' quite want to remember. The grin was good, the look was evil. He loved her; until she was hired to kill his father. What he didn't know is that she denied the contract and attempted to stop the assassination. But, she was notorious, and when his father died, and she was at the scene, he really didn't care. I guess, I still love him. I hope. well, that's the past. He just needs all that facts. Why, oh, why won't he believe me? Christie thought. "Uh, Jake! Inbound hostile. vector 1-8-0, 4 miles," the Colonel's voice sounded tense, "Moving to intercept." Jake's face almost glowed with anticipation, "Let's cook!" Misty ran outside the bunker, drew her blade, and looked into the sky. A stream of white gas was being ejected from a. pod? What the heck was this? She jumped into the trench and all but begged for it to begin. The pod sped forward at Mach 5, the fastest thing to ever flow through the atmosphere. An object was in front of it. They collided. "What- AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" The line filled with static. Jake's head sagged, "Casualties of war," now, the war began. He ran down the trench toward a previously selected section where the trench just ended. Hayabusa, Cadman and himself would wait there, and Jake would direct the battle from there with his COM link. Christie took aim on the incoming object. It's hull plating didn't glow orange or red, but white! Pieces of it flew off, as they melted away. An outer shell flew away, and a second inner one remained. "We certainly chose a great enemy to fight," she whispered as she took aim, and waited for the signal to fire. Kasumi ran through the trenches, trying to find the perfect spot to wait for the battle. It seemed somehow slightly reminiscent of an American film. Star wars? was that it? She grinned, proud of her knowledge of other people's cultures, although, she didn't know how that would help her here. The second shell shed, and a man became visible. Instantly slowed, a clear, plastic case slowed the speed to a safe speed, and melted away, sending the 'paratrooper' clean and ready into combat. But this was no paratrooper; it was Rogue Shinobi, Now, where is Toshi? My mission is not complete until he dies.
Part 8 The Wings of a Hero Warning: Some Images May Not be Fit for Kids Under 13.
"Christie, hold your fire. You're the trump card. Don't let him know you're there," Jake's voice whispered in her microphone headpiece. Acknowledging the order, she bent low, concealing herself from view, and tucking the sniper rifle into the crook in her arm. She felt the cold emotion flow over her as it always did. An feeling less expression graced her and she watched her prey move toward the trenches. "He headed due south," she whispered, "Kasumi, Misty, keep your eyes open." "We copy." "Shouldn't Christie get to higher ground?" Cadman, she knew it was him. Jake sighed into the receiver, "it's one guy, I wouldn't panic, but find some that you can get to if things get ugly, kay?" "Alright," Christie said, and glanced ice daggers around the desert base. There was an old guard tower a few dozen meters to the right. Could she make it there? Would it even hold her weight?" A billion split-second calculations buzzed through her head, as her blood began to broil with the anticipation.
Rogue smiled, maniacally, "heheheh, can the little ninjas come out to play?" he said, in a comically low toned voice. He rounded one corner. There was nothing but empty trench. He took one look behind him, leering over his shoulder, and decided to disappear from view for a little bit. Misty turned the corner, and glanced around. Nothing. She could've sworn he'd rounded this corner! Where'd he go? "Misty! He's right above you!" Christie yelled, seeing the sharp red and blue cloak poking over the trench side. It suddenly vanished. Misty hit the ground hard, her mouth filling with desert dirt and sand. The taste of hard, gritty sand in her mouth dried her tongue, and she suddenly felt the air crushed from her lungs. "Poor little ninja!" Rogue whispered. "F**K YOU!" She pulled her legs up, so that they would touch her head, but instead, pounded straight into the back of his skull. He fell of her back, rolling up to standing position. Misty then pushed herself up, and watched the action begin. Kasumi and Ayane dropped from the trench sides, and engaged the foe. A two katanas came from seemingly nowhere, and all the attacks were blocked, dodged or deflected. Giving up on the blade assault, Kasumi placed on foot on the dirt wall of the trench, and pushed herself up, aiming a kick for the head. He slashed, hitting air. She appeared behind him, kicking him square in the base of the spine. He flew forward, and. flipped. Kicking Ayane clear of the trench, in the chin. She was unconscious before she hit the ground. Rogue drew bright red line down Kasumi's thigh, which split into an open wound. Then a nasty hilt smash to the head, took her down as well. Misty was standing now, and ready to fight, recovering from her sudden oxygen deficiency. She smashed her head into his, and he felt blood trickle down his forehead, "There's a stunt you didn't see!" "Come and get it!" Cadman flew over the edge, short sword drawn. He slashed. The blade was repelled by one of Rogue's own. A fierce battle took place. Dirt was kicked up, and Misty found it hard to see and breathe, yet she went on. Sweat dripped off her arms and face, and yet if she stopped she'd be dead. She went on, and suddenly felt her legs go out from under her. She'd twisted an ankle, or sprained it, she couldn't tell anymore. Everything was so dark. Cadman watched her fall, and knew he'd lost. Christie couldn't see with the scope through the dust, and his one sword on two, he couldn't hope to win. Hayabusa and Hayate suddenly appeared, wielding their own blades. Hayabusa came in low, but his blade cut only the fabric of Rogue's cloak. The already ragged piece of cloth flew up through the shroud, and down came a series of darts. They all had almost five inch long needles, with barbs at least a centimeter long each. One hit Hayate in the shoulder, throwing him to the opposite wall and pinning him there. And another hit Hayabusa right. no, it couldn't! Right in the throat! "AAAARGGHH!" Cadman felt pain lance through his arm and leg as darts impaled themselves in his flesh. He collapsed, and for once the dust cloud vanished. Hayate desperately threw his sword at Rogue, but it was easily batted away. Cadman groaned in pain, and watched his old leg wound begin to bleed again, the once sealed injury opening again. Rogue bent low, towards Hayabusa, checked for pulse, and smiled, evilly. "No." Hayate murmured. Rogue chuckled to himself. "That's enough! You want me!" Cadman glared up, and there he was. That mystery ninja from the Arena. Toshi glared down at his foe, Rogue Shinobi. The pair stood glancing for the longest time, and no one saw the pair of gunners walk closer to the action. Jake charged forward, battle cry in his heart and rifle in hand. He fired a quick burst at Rogue. The twin swords came up, blocked the bullets. Rogue did a quick charge, and slashed Jake across he stomach. Jake flew back, suddenly aware of his new pains. "Could you have been more stupid?" "Enough! Fight me, if you can!" Toshi cried his challenge, and attacked, almost flying through the air. A flurry of blades, and fists, Toshi pushed Rogue around the corner with sheer offensive press. Rogue never got a chance to throw his own attacks. Toshi was in a blind rage, attacking anything that moved, and that was Rogue. But, Toshi luck ran out. The same move, and the same voice, "A little o' this, a little o' that!" A scissor block and Toshi's sword flew forward, out of Toshi's hand into the far trench wall. A gut punch and high kick sent Toshi the opposite way. "I gave you the chance of dying, swiftly, Toshi. But you, have elected torture, first." Rogue slashed Toshi across the face, near the left eye. Blood trickled down his face, as Rogue slashed again and again. Old wounds reopened by Rogue's blades, and pain surging through Toshi's body. It was too much. He cried out. Rogue smirked, until the barrel of a Tango 51 slammed into his chest. "Eat it!" Christie said, as she fired. The sniper round made quite a mess coming out, and sent the evil Ninja to the opposite wall. Toshi looked at his sword, and then at his wrist. He gave one final glare at Rogue. Rogue touched his wound, then followed Toshi's gaze. The katana sticking from the wall was at neck level to him. He then gazed sadly at Toshi. "Goodnight, murderer!" And Toshi twitched his wrist, and watched the head roll.
Part 9 Dead or Alive
Cadman, Kasumi, Christie, Ayane and Hayate glanced down on the Cairns they'd built for they're comrades. Hayabusa, Misty, Jake, and Garrett all lay in separate graves. Cadman for the first time saw Kasumi cry. Not drop a tear, but really cry. She couldn't stop weeping over Hayabusa's grave. "It's what Jake would've wanted," Cadman said, simply. Christie grinned, meekly, and tried to hold back her own tears. Hayate had a grim look on his face as he silently said good-bye to a life long friend. Jake and Garrett lay side by side, joined in friendship once again, after 6 years of hatred. Now, they could finally see their love, Marisa again. Maybe. maybe, they found peace in death. Ayane said farewell to her best student, and then turned to leave, but waited for the others. Hayate finished his goodbye, and turned to leave as well. Soon, Kasumi was the only one left. "Ryu," she whispered, "I don't think I ever said it. But, all those times when you tried to protect me. it really, helped me go on. Well," She kicked one foot to the other, "what I'm trying to say is. I love you. I always have." Cadman stopped his departure, sensing that Kasumi had not joined them. He turned back, and watched her for a moment. "Why'd you die?" Kasumi asked, pounding her fist on the cairn. A rock fell off it, and embarrassed she went to place it back. But, a moving hand where the stone had been stopped her. "HEEEEEEEEYYY!" Kasumi yelled as she suddenly began unburying Ryu. Cadman ran to her, and saw the living Ryu laying there, eyes wide open, and an obvious look of pain. He wasn't talking, for obvious reasons, but the guy was alive. Cadman laughed, jovially, and crouched next to him. He offered a hand, to see if Ryu would take it. He did. "Can you speak?" Cadman asked, "You took a nasty blow to the neck." "I think I can manage!" He said, holding up a small medallion. The dart had punched through the layers of cloth, but the lethal blow stopped at the necklace. "But. how?" Christie asked. Ryu smiled and titled his head back, and smiled. He wordlessly bowed 'to' the sky, and began to walk away. "Translation?" Cadman asked, puzzled. Kasumi smiled warmly, "Thank God!"
The End
Episode 3
Event Horizon
Part 1
Remembrance
Garret gazed at what was NEO GENESIS. It was a reincarnation of Sigma, the dreaded alien warrior that had wreaked havoc on the Dead Or Alive competitors and killed many. A silvery gray creature, it still resembled a creature of mass destruction. Garret's left hand, absent-mindedly, grazed the massive scar left by his first encounter with that creature. A deep, ugly scar across his gut and a nasty set of rounded disfigurements across his left eye and cheek. It had mutilated him, and a passing group of security guards had rescued him. Now, he thought, I will master it. "Sir, we have encountered a difficulty." Garret turned to face his head scientist, Adrik Pyotr, "What's wrong Adrik? A technician screw up again and destroy the system?" Adrik didn't take the friendly joke well, and remained stone-faced, "De DNA has been corrupted. It oxides, destroying some of chemicals. We managed save most of it-" "Most doesn't help, Adrik! I need it all!" The Russian bio-chemist shivered at Garret's cold words. Adrik knew his commander's secret; what happened to him. He'd been to Hell and back, and Adrik respected that. Garret sighed, ".What have we lost?" Adrik pulled a clipboard from a pocket in his white overcoat, and examined it, "we lost another 13% of the DNA. We'll just need to substitute more of Subject Beta's DNA into it." Garret despised the term. Jake had escaped, and destroyed his guardian creature, the Grendel. And it was a child! The Grendel didn't deserve death at its tender age. It had the intelligence of a baby gorilla. It did what it was told to do, nothing more. That bastard would pay! Not just for the Grendel's death, but for his injuries and Marisa! Yes, he would pay! "Proceed. Alert me when the cloning is completed. I wish to see the creature after." Adrik frowned, his lips pushed out, showing a dubious expression, "Are you sure that is wise?" "I am certain, Adrik." Adrik lowered his head, in submission to his commander's orders, yet something gnawed at his sub-concious. He couldn't quite place it, but it seemed dangerous to put Garret in that situation. "Adrik," Garret raised the Russian's chin with that word, "We've been through a lot. I won't forget what you did for me." Adrik shifted, bouncing from one leg to another, suddenly aware of his own discomfort. Damn! He'd finally gotten used to it, "It hurt anymore?" Garret asked. "No, just," he paused, grunting over his obvious soreness, "it feels strange." Garret sighed, and stood from his desk, rounding the bend, he placed his hands on Adrik's shoulders, "I have to thank you again. You saved my life." "Just my duty, sir." "Oh, Adrik! You were the best man at my wedding in '94, for God's sake! Call me Garret." "Whatever you, say, sir." Garret smiled and walked back to his seat, Adrik never ceases to amaze me with his loyalty. "Dismissed, Adrik. Proceed with NEO GENESIS." Adrik nodded and turned toward the door which opened automatically, the above head camera detecting his motion. When Adrik had finally left, Garret leaned back in his chair and pondered his thoughts. NEO GENESIS was being altered for his revenge, but was it the smart thing to do. The new Grendel in position, this one an adult to be sure no one got in, this creature had ransacked a whole island before, and a lethal assassin created by Dynavein already out of control, was this the most profound, and intelligent thing to do? No, it was wrong to just let Jake get away unpunished for what he'd done! He let him and Bruce for dead, abandoned them. He let Marisa fall to it, and he got off scot free? No. He and his crazed friends must pay for their reign of terror.
Part 2
Encounters
Sweet Tooth rolled, pulling his katana up, deflecting his enemy's double hack. The twin blades gleamed in the sunlight, and Sweet Tooth squinted, trying to see the face under the assailants hood. A sweeping kick, low, knocking his opponent down, gave Sweet Tooth the split second he needed to get a few feet of breathing room. This was going on too long, he, a super ninja, was tiring, and this man hadn't even broke into any heavy breathing. Nto a drop of sweat, or blood had fallen, and Sweet Tooth, for the first time, felt the grip of sheer terror. The fear of death. A blood-crimson robe flew through the air, as the assailant actually spun on angle, coming up to his feet from his back. "Who are you?" Sweet Tooth demanded, readying himself for another storm of blades. "Me? I'm just a concerned citizen, helping to clean up our fair world! Now, feel steel!" The assailant feinted to the left, and ran to the right, bringing in a low slash at Sweet Tooth's vulnerable stomach. A quick back step saved Sweet Tooth's intestines from daylight, and his gut from being seared by cold metal. Second, came a high slash at the side of Sweet Tooth's head. With no time to dodge, Sweet Tooth raised his own blade up, repelling the blow. Forced to back pedal again, Sweet Tooth finally caught a glance at what was under that hood. A man with sharp features, flowing black and sliver hair, and deadly green eyes stabbed out at him from the darkness. "Rogue Shinobi? No! You're dead!"
* * *
"Faster, Cadman! You can do better than this!" The cold, feminine voice cut through Cadman's heart like a heated spear. He dared to challenge her, if only to hear that voice. Christie sunk low in her posture, and charged at her friend and opponent, all at once. Cadman side stepped, and rolled, missing Christie's extended kicking leg by a millimeter. He continued the roll, furthering himself from Christie's deadly kicks. He felt pressure to his left; the wall of the room. Sparing a glance left, he saw Christie charging at him, not an emotion showing on her face. The assassin loved the challenge of fighting Cadman, if only to sharpen her own skills and pass the time. Seeing her low charge, and the opportunity, Cadman placed his left foot high on the wall, raised his right, so he was standing on the wall for brief moment. Before gravity could work it's magic, he pressed off and flipped over Christie's head. She ducked, placed her hands on the ground ,and kicked up, hitting nothing but air. Cadman felt the pressure of the ground, underneath his feet moments later. Kicking backwards, if only to confuse her, the SAS agent ran forward, at the opposite wall. Jumping up, placing his feet on that wall, he launched himself, horizontally at Christie's defenseless back, fists forward. She reached back, grabbed onto his hands, and flipped him over her head, so that he landed, in a sitting position, his back to her. The situation flipped she planted her foot on his neck, made a slight motion and said, "Kill!" Cadman groaned in defeat, as he slowly rose, favoring his protesting muscles and ligaments. The battle hadn't been easy, and he'd still lost; dead even. "The saying is true, Cadman," Christie said, "You only get better with age!" A slight chuckle graced him, as he remembered the days. Was it only two years ago? When he met her? And. Christie frowned at the memories that brought back, "It's over. You can't change it." "I need to be getting home," he wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, and suddenly noticed exactly how. wet, from sweat she'd gotten. He shook his head, and turned away, grabbing a towel. It was cold, you can't change the past, Cadman. Accept it, for once, eh? He thought to himself. "Good luck with the tournament!" Cadman called over his shoulder, as he left the training room. Many others in the room, and he walked past another pair who were sparring, as he left, still blotting his face, trying to get rid of hard recollections.
"Faster, Misty!" Jones swept the staff up, blocking as many of Misty punches as he could. Her objective; to land a hit. If she could get past a weapon she should be able to continue in the tournament. Tina would be no easy challenge. A pair of low punches, a high kick, and an impressive spin punch/kick she learned from Ayane; all blocked successfully. "Ergh!" Misty moaned as she threw a final punch, her strength waning. It was a trick; Jones would push it aside, throwing the blow to his left, and his defense that way. A successful half spin could then land an elbow into his side. Her strategy worked, and so did the move. "Ouch! Better!" "Are you my boyfriend or a personal trainer?" Misty asked. Jones grinned, mischievously, "Maybe both!" She playfully lobbed at cold towel at him, and got one for herself. Wrapping it around her neck, she instantly felt the blazing stream of heat leave her body. The cold was a welcome addition to her heated body, the numbing having a therapeutic effect. She still had nightmares. Glancing at her teacher, Ayane, she suddenly felt a wave of sympathy for the cold leader of the ninja clan Hajinmon. She had had a close encounter with SIGMA twice, and Misty didn't want to have it the first time. Ayane, her quick, lethal moves doing nothing, he once ultra- powerful skill suddenly nil, and unable to assist her in her time of need. It was. frightening. And, Misty thought, hat things were getting bad to worse, as she scanned the room, and spotted the sudden arrival of a newcomer. "This is a private training room. Ya want an autograph, there's a session at five, after the third match every day," Jones said, standing in intruder's way. Jones was thrown aside like so many strands of hay. And it was far from over. A flash of crimson, and blue, and the battle ended before it began.
Part 3
Captive
Jake blinked, his vision smudged, unclear. The ice cold feel of liquid around him, helped to numb his body. It was tube; an all too familiar tube. It was almost like a big test tube. It was the tube he'd seen SIGMA in, almost six years ago. Jake, suddenly, emptied his lungs into the liquid, panicking. He threw his fists against the sides of the plexi-glass cylinder. He pounded, as fast as his body could move. He held his breath, trying to not breath in the ominous green liquid. He finally caved, the liquid plunging into his lungs, and all was dark. When he awoke again, he found that he was able to breath, in the liquid. It was pumped heavy with oxygen. He felt of sense of panic flow through him. He had no idea where he was, yet he could see thing's remarkably clearly. The panic, quelled by rising questions, faded from his mind, and Jake cocked his head, trying to gather in what was around him. The liquid made things outside the tube difficult to see, because of the light refraction, but he could get a general idea. There were people, men and women. All seemed to be watching him. There were computers, and consoles, not terraced like he remembered the place to have been, though. A dream? He thought. He absentmindedly scratched the back of his head, and felt the discomfort suddenly flow into his lungs again. He'd done this before, so he knew the technology behind it. A period of adjustment, and then you're fine. However, if you panic during the adjustment, you could die. They must've pumped a sleep toxin into the water to calm me down. "Welcome, Jake. Welcome to vengeance." Jake recognized that voice, and his skin turned a pale green next to the liquid, "No. How? It's not possible."
* * * * *
Cold. they were so cold. They burned her skin, the metal rings clanging against each other as Misty yanked on the chains, franticly trying to get loose. Taking a quick glance around, she saw them all. They were all there; Jones, Kasumi, Ayane, Hayate, Hayabusa, herself, and hapless Christie, who got caught in the mess. There were two empty sets of chains, with two names scribbled, one each. One said Nataku. Misty didn't have to read the other to know who would've been in it, if they hadn't died. "Okay, children! Time to face what you are." Misty turned her head back, trying to discern the source of the large voice, "Who are you?" Misty's head snapped around, the metal chains making a strange, ghostly sound. She felt shivers go up her spine and arms as a door opened, the familiar creaking of an old, un-oiled wooden door screeching it's wails of torment as the hinges attempted to open the door with ease, failing. In the doorway stood a man. He was neither tall, nor short, clad in a strange leather armor, covering his torso. The rest was a tunic, and baggy pants. He seemed to be almost Renaissance, except for the simple aura of him. A deep scar was laid across his left eye, reducing the eye to less than useless. "Misty, I presume?" All the people turned the heads toward him, querying gazes filling their faces and eyes. All except Jones. He struggled, suddenly, against his restraints, attempting to get between the newcomer and Misty. The newcomer bowed, "Greetings, I am Garrett." Hayate caught onto it first, "You know Jake, from Elijah Isle." Garrett's head swerved, as if on a loose spigot, turning sharply toward the super ninja, ".Yes, I knew him. He. was a dangerous man to know at that crucial time." "Why?" Jones asked, leaning outward, at the end of the chains. Garrett marched to Jones, and stood just outside Jones's reach, " 'Why?' He abandoned dozens for dead, and left more to die, that's why! He killed me on that island. Now, he will pay." Garrett snapped his fingers, his eyes still not leaving Jones, "Begin the show," he said, a malicious grin on his face. The man stepped away, and they all watched as the wall directly in front of them opened up, revealing a kind of arena. Jake lay in the center, standing half-bowed, stumbling, just where he stood, and his right hand was raised, as if to ward off a blow, or screen his eyes from a bright light. The room in which Jake sat was large, an oval circle almost half the size of a football field. Almost ramp like walls kept those inside from getting out, and glass separated the spectator slots from the fighters. Armed gunmen stood in posts around the arena, guns at sides, and ready. Kasumi and Hayabusa put two and two together at the same time, "Don't do it Garret! He doesn't deserve death!" Hayabusa yelled. "Doesn't he?!" Garrett asked, "Did Marisa?" "Did Tisha?" Kasumi shot back. Garrett glared hard at Kasumi, soaking that lower verbal punch in, "How many have to die to let you know that he's the problem behind all of our problems?" Garrett whispered to Kasumi, just loud enough for Misty to hear, "He. is the one who brought it all. If only he could have stayed on the island, maybe Marisa. maybe." Garrett paused, and Jones could swear that the sparkle on Garrett's face were tears, He loved her. Jake didn't tell us that. Jones, and Misty watched helplessly as Jake stood slowly, suddenly looking straight at the reincarnation of an evil creature; SIGMA. But, something was wrong. Jake seemed more entranced with it. And, even standing at it's full glory, it didn't seem right, not to Ayane. She'd been captured by it twice, and she'd seen it in it's full glory. This certainly wasn't it. Something was wrong with it. "Tisha was the first attempt at Genetic Enhancement by Dynavein. It failed, and she escaped," Garrett said in a monotone. "What?" Was the general response throughout the group. "After her escape, Tomlinson tried to eliminate this security threat." Misty sank in her chains, "Drawing us all into the mix." Garrett smiled absently, "Jake is now the continuation of that project. It is his punishment; to live with is guilt and then die at my hands." He sharply waved his hand in front of the glass, and Misty felt the iron chains fall from her wrists and ankles, "I have no quarrel with the Dead or Alive fighters. My vendetta is with Jake. Leave us in peace." Ayane started to leave, but stopped, suddenly tense. Her eyes darted around the room. Misty noticed Kasumi in a similar stature, however, she hadn't moved. Misty scanned the room, and noticed the same thing they had. "We're. not alone." The window crashed, a lone figure's body hitting Garrett with full force, "Why was I invited to this party?" "Cadman!" Christie yelled, in more of surprise than relief. She followed the pair with a graceful jump to the arena floor, where the two now lay, sprawled. None noticed the true reason for Ayane's sudden worry, now caught up in the action. A shapeless form, moved near the walls. It cursed ,threw away it's robe, revealing it's true face. And it struck, with devastating skill. One thing stopped it. Twin blades met a katana, flying through the air toward the arena as well. Both wielders of the weapons, landed gracefully and soundlessly, on the other side of the arena from the others. "Toshi." Said the crimson caped sudden defender. "Rogue," The assailant said, pulling back, "All I want is Garrett. He's caused too much trouble for us all." "You want him? Or a fight?" Rogue Shinobi asked. "Very well, Rogue," Toshi said, formally bowing to the powerful opponent, "I shall not lose. Fight me, if you dare!"
Part 4
Understanding
The battle raged around Jake; guns firing, swords clashing, kicks landing and punching being blocked created a maelstrom of blood, sweat and tears. And he was oblivious. with good reason! The creature stared at him, and Jake stared right back, unmoving. He instinctively began backing away, but it didn't advance. Jake suddenly knew why. This. thing was different. It's head was shorter and fatter, it's mouth even, showing a pair of blue lips, and short, dull teeth. It's eyes were a cold, sky blue; color of Robins' eggs, Jake thought, remembering that beautiful color. A pair of pupils, sheer, black holes, sat in those pure blue eyes. Many of it's aspects remained; long, spiked tail, clawed hands, and color- shifting skin. But, there was a strange 'manner' to it, that was different. It sat, hunched, and watched him, it's head cocked to one side, examining him, and his movements. It's almost like a child! Jake thought. He slowly rose, still ignorant of the battle around him. His hand brushed it's cheek, and he could swear. it purred.
Cadman braced himself, and threw his body into Garrett's charging form. The glitter of a small blade in his hand, Garrett, propelled himself directly at his attacker. Cadman's blow hit low, his force sending both him and Garrett into the wall. The SAS operative took a chance, and glanced around him. He would receive no help from his Dead Or Alive friends. They had their hands full dodging bullets. And who were the two ninja guys? He wondered. But he had no time to formulate a guess, as Garrett pressed his own attack. The knife came up, and Cadman was forced to the ground, the knife landing neatly to the left of his head. Cadman lashed out, kneeing Garrett in the gut, forcing the man off of him. Wind brushed his face, and a snap to his left, near his chest, made him flinch. They were shooting at him. He got up, crouched, and ran, in irregular patterns, trying to get the shooter, to pick another, easier target. The strategy was working.
Misty kicked up, towards a gunmen's head. A perfect blow, right under the chin. The shooter slumped, either unconscious or dead. At this point, she didn't care. She grabbed the man's falling body, and pushed it forward, using it as a body shield from gun fire. Bullets punched into the man's chest. If he wasn't dead before, he was now. She shot a glance at her objective; Jones. He was trapped, punching out any gunmen who dare get too close, and hiding from the others. He wouldn't last. Not much longer, and Misty knew it. He was no martial artist. She pushed the body once more, sending the man into a group of machine gunners. The men fell under the weight of discharged bullets, and mutilated flesh.She charged straight forward, and stopped, looking at the sheer pain in front of her. "NOOOOO!"
Toshi, deflected his rival's first sword, and performed a perfect split, to avoid a second blow, to his neck. Bringing one foot around, the ninja attempted to knock Rogue down. Rogue, vaulted over the leg, and artfully, pulled one sword under each arm, and thrust back. The sound of tearing cloth and the feel of cold steel graced Toshi's senses. A burning sensation in his arm. But pain, could be subdued. Placing the pain in the back of his mind, the deep arm wound was no longer a factor, but the blood loss would be. The battle continued between the pair of ninjas. Every blow was countered and the stray bullet or two made things interesting. Random sparks from lucky bullet blocks made it a scene from an action film, but to Rogue and Toshi it was far from that. It was personal. "You. how do I know you?" Toshi asked. "HAHAHAHA! Me? I cleaned up a mess! A little o' this," CLANG! Their swords met! "a little o' that, and BOOM!" A scissor move from Rogue sent Toshi's sword flying, "The enemy is in the palm of your hand. What Rogue didn't see, was that Toshi took measures to be sure he didn't lose his weapon for long. Toshi gripped what seemed to be dead air, but he knew that he was gripping a small, tough, fishing line. Invisible to the careless eye, unless you're looking for it, and Rogue, wasn't looking for it. The string connected to the hilt of Toshi's customized katana. All he needed was a good angle, and velocity, and Rogue was his for the taking. Rogue began to gloat, as he stepped right into Toshi's needed vector. He held forth a medallion; a simple rounded piece of metal, with a familiar symbol. Toshi grasped his chest, where an identical one hung. The key to the past, and the door to his future. A flash; and he remembered it all. well, most of it. But, it was far too enough for him. The darkness enveloping his steps, and rivers of blood flowing down the hill. And all he could do, was follow the blood. "You. YOU BASTARD!" Toshi flisked his wrist. The katana gleamed a sliver hue as it soared through the air. Caught up in his own anger, Toshi couldn't think straight. Aim true and strength overpowering, the blade sung through the air, leaving a remarkable tone in the reverberating air. Rogue ducked, so that his left hand and sword touched the ground. His right came up, and sent the incoming katana straight up. Into Jones's chest. The man glared down at the curved blade now sticking out of his chest. A cry from Misty sent the arena into silence. Jones brought his hand down, felt the wound with his right hand. Examining the blood on his hand, he looked at it with almost misunderstanding. He raised his gaze toward Misty, who stood, quivering a feet meters away, dead riflemen at her feet. A single tear flew down her face as she knew Jones's deadly peril, from which their was no escape. Jones didn't cry, shout, or even groan in pain; he just stood for a moment, staring at the intricate Katana now sheathed in his blood and gore. He then, toppled, falling forward into the arena, itself. Rogue smiled, relishing in the kill, breathing in the dank air, and smelling the depth of Jones's fear, and desperation. And Toshi could only watch, the blood flow. And continue the battle. Toshi flung the blade from Jones's chest, sending the hapless man to his death at the floor. The katana, blood-drenched, reaching Toshi's hand, cut through the air, aiming for Rogue's neck. When suddenly, he wasn't there, "We shall meet again Toshi. But, now I see that this party is winding down. Until we meet again, fool!" And with a maniacal laugh, Rogue was gone. "Misty! Come on!" Ayane kicked a gunmen in the chest, grabbed an oblivious Misty by the wrist, and pulled her along. Misty could only watch Jones lay there, dying. And. she wasn't sure what to feel; Sadness? Fear? Maybe even remorse. But. she just didn't know.
Part 5
Uninvited Guests
Jake stood in the center of the Holiday Inn room that he'd rented. Everyone was there, even a now secluded Misty. Jake couldn't repair the damage Dynavein had done to her, but he'd sworn, on Marisa's grave, to bring it down. And now was the time. A clueless Cadman and Christie sat in one corner of the room, waiting for explanations. Christie knew about Dynavein, sure. She'd been on Elijah Isle. She'd hunted that. thing, with Lei-Fang. The thrill of it had been almost too much for her; almost. "Alright. You probably all want to know why I asked you here," Jake said, "It's about Dynavein." "We know why. But what about?" Hayate asked. Cadman leaned forward in his seat, and fingered the day old beard he'd grown. The sound of his fingers going over the whiskers sent shiver down his spine. Same effect as finger nails on a blackboard, He thought. "Dynavein has caused. havoc over the past few months-" "No shit!" Misty interjected, suddenly snapping her silence. The darkest portions of her mind awoke in anger. Anger at herself, anger at Dynavein, even anger at Jones. She didn't care. She was flat-out pissed off. Jake's eyes went to slits, dangerously. His glare was cold enough to freeze the sun, and Misty sat in her corner, fuming. "I propose that we shut it down. Permanently." "But how?" Hayabusa asked. Cadman leaned over to his left just a little, whispering, "What's with this big Jake guy?" Cadman asked Christie. The assassin summarized briefly, the events of Elijah Isle, and what she knew of the events prior to the tournament got into full swing. Cadman wasn't stunned. He was flat out terrified by what she told him. Aliens? Grendels? Cloning? But- why? Meanwhile, Jake had been talking, ". after that's done, my men and I will capture Garrett and key personal and evacuate to the base in the Mojave Desert. I expect you all to meet us there?" "Why the Mojave?" Cadman asked. Jake turned to the SAS operative, "There's an old bunker there. If Dynavein soldiers give pursuit, it's much easier to defend. The place is also riddled with trenches, making people difficult to find in them. A perfect defensive position. And a horrible choice! They can hit us from any direction in the trenches! But. you got a better one? Cadman asked himself, Didn't think so.
* * *
Jake arrived on time. The guards had just left, and Cadman was getting impatient. The gravel roof was easy to move on with no one to detect them. Jake, and few of his friends now stood on the roof. Cadman was crouched on the roof, watching the group get into position. Jake scaled the walls to the roof, Kasumi, Ayane and Misty were going in windows, and Hayate and Hayabusa were going right in the front door, looking completely normal. Well, sort of. "Check, one, two, three. can you here me, Hayabusa?" Jake asked, into his radio headset that he'd 'borrowed' from his DELTA base. Everyone in the group had them. Jake wiped his forehead of sweat as he waited for Ryu to respond. "How does this work?. Oh, Yeah, I hear you." Cadman smiled. "Alright, Jake, let's do it. Quick and simple," Cadman said. Jake nodded, "Code: Kunoichi. Begin operation." The few DELTAs who Jake had gotten began to go for the stairwell. Cadman took his pistols, knives and sword, and followed them. The men all had rifles, and a pair of extra cartridges of 5.56 ammunition if things got ugly. Only a few flights down, they found that the stairs ended in a large complex. The min lab. It was filled with tables, chairs and lab equipment. "Ya think someone who clones would be more organized!" "Shaddap, Greg!" Jake said. They fanned out across the room and searched for the control cards that would open key doors in the facility. The placed was messed up and there were numerous paths through it, and some overturned tables. No, Cadman thought, One large path going in a pattern. Cadman and Jake found an open door to the left of the place. The room inside was an office; Garrett's office. Cadman looked at Jake, and then at the enormous amount of blood turning the tan carpet a brilliant bronze. "Oh god!" Jake ran inside, and lifted the man's head back. A bright line was drawn across Garrett's neck, his face pale and eyes lifeless. Cadman pressed his back to one wall, then touched his ear, triggering the headset, "Ryu, Kasumi, back off. Garrett's dead. The Dynavein building's trashed, there's nothing left here." "We copy, heading for our exits." "Cadman," Cadman turned to Jake, who was pulling the dead corpse from the chair at his desk, "I can't leave him here." Cadman looked questioningly at Jake. Jake said, "I abandoned him once. I won't do it again." Cadman stared, knowingly at Jake, then gave a curt nod, and went to help with the body. "Something's here," Kasumi said. Jake and Cadman nearly dropped the body, "Ya got him?" Cadman asked, and Jake nodded. Cadman pulled his pistols and dropped into a combat stance, ready for an attack from any side. This was one hard trained warrior that wouldn't be ensnared in a trap so easy. He moved into the main room, "Talk to me, Kas!" "It's heading your way, fast. I can't catch it." Cadman blew air out of his mouth, giving a moment of static, "By all means, don't! Just get out of here! GET OUT!" "What the-!" The man never got another word out. IT got him. Cadman stood and glared at it. It must've been 13 feet long, and the exact description of a Grendel that Jake had given. "Doesn't that thing ever DIE?! HE rounds, Open fire!" Jake yelled, as he slammed the High Explosive cartridge into his rifle and aimed at it. But it was too fast for him to hope to catch it. "Cadman!"
"Go, Ryu, and don't make me tell ya twice," BLAM! BLAM! BLAM!
"CADMAN!" Ryu yelled into his microphone, went it suddenly went dead. He glared up at Hayate, then at the charges they'd placed on the building wall, next to several carts of gasoline. "Go, Hayate. I'll catch up with you!" "I don't think so. Keep the radio transmitter, and stay here. I'll go get Cadman out. Give me five minutes." "You know I'm faster, Hayate-san." There was a moment of silence as Hayate considered his options. HE raised his head, and said, "Good luck, and Godspeed."
Part 6
Strategic Retreat
"Jake, run! GO!" Cadman lifted his Colt M1911A1 pistols, aimed for the head of the Grendel, as he backpedaled toward the exit. The creature was almost on him. And in half a second it would be. Damn, it was fast. A black blur and it was right there, in his face, it's fangs gleaming in the dim lighting of the lab. Cadman fired, the small .45 ACP ammo sending his hands flying back as the bullets left the antechamber that was the pistols' barrel. The bullets were enough. The Grendel slowed down, grunting through the force of the blows. Cadman hadn't even made a step backwards. This time, he turned and ran up the steps, holding his guns behind him, firing blindly, as he retreated. The roof was three flights up, and the others had a head start. And it was so fast! A few lucky shots hit the Grendel, but not enough. It got his leg. Cadman's legs lit up in a painful, searing fire. It jerked as the Grendel dragged him back down the stairs. "CADMAN!" Jake called, still holding Garrett's corpse. "GO you mother fu- AAARRGGH!" Cadman broke off mid-sentence as the Grendel lashed him with it's tail spines, sinking their deadly hooks into his leg. With that tool, it dragged him off, out of Jake's sight. "EERRRRGGHH"' A shapeless form launched itself, crying a challenge toward the Grendel. Who was it? No. it couldn't be. Ryu thought from the shadows, SWEET TOOTH! The super ninja came forward and delivered a devastating kick to the Grendel's head. It flew. Literally, flew, it's talon-like tail spikes dislodging from Cadman mid flight. Cadman crawled away, favoring his bleeding thigh. The black cloth of his baggy pant leg darkened even further with the red blood staining it. Ryu made his move, pulling katana from his waist, and charging in at the vulnerable underbelly. Speed. It rolled over and swatted Ryu away in under half a second. But, it began to groan. Steam was coming from it's body. It was overheating. "I don't believe it." Cadman said, smiling weakly, as he used a table to pull himself to his feet. He'd figured out it's weakness. Sweet Tooth came in, fast and hard, slashing at the creature's face. It's hard armor wasn't enough to protect it from his super human strength. The creature collapsed. Sweet Tooth the super ninja hacked into it a couple more times, before pausing. He watched it bleed. His eyes went to slits. The super ninja spun, and Cadman was no where to be seen. What he didn't see was the Grendel actually getting up behind him. It ran him down, it's three hundred kilos of sheer muscle and bone crushing Sweet Tooth into the ground. It barreled up the stairwell; after the smell of blood. Sweet Tooth didn't move.
* * *
Cadman pushed the rooftop door open, Ryu helping him walk. Cadman limped to the lip of the building, and then glanced around the gravel covered roof. Despair filled within his heart when he realized they'd left without them. "Damn you, Vance!" HREEEEEE! Cadman flinched at the ear splitting shriek of a creature that was mad, bad and hurting. There it was, the Grendel punched through the concrete doorway, and it's steaming, overheating body charged right for them. Cadman pulled a throwing knife and readied himself. But he didn't have to. Ryu's hair was blown forward as a helicopter rose behind them, Jake sitting comfortably in the gunner's seat. The Grendel paused, and considered it's new foe. "Eat it, speedy Gonzalez!" Jake said, as he let the M60 go. Bullets, one after another hit it, and the Grendel never had a chance to recover. It collapsed, it's flesh mutilated, no longer even resembling a Grendel. "COME ON!" Jake cried, and he hauled Cadman and Ryu into the helicopter, "Colonel! Head for the Mojave Bunker! ASAP!" "I read you Vance! And Vance," Jake tilted his head to listen as Ryu climbed in, "Looks like my hands can work even tied up!" Jake laughed at the pun, and gave the signal for his Colonel to pull away.
No one saw the shadow leave out a window in the second floor, the building exploding behind him. The gas and fumes filling the entire complex, destroying all of Dynavein. Now, all Jake had to do was mop up. Or so he thought. For more trouble was hunting him than Dynavein.
Part 7
Trench Run
"I'm sorry, Adrik, but if you don't tell me where they went, I'll have to kill you. slowly!" Rogue sat, one of his swords pressed up against Adrik's neck, the other on the back of the neck, ready to cut the spinal column. "I. I don't know!" Adrik blurted. Rogue removed one sword from it's lethal pose, and slowly cut Adrik's arm. The Russian scientist grunted through the pain, "I.. I DON'T KNOW!" Rogue cocked his head, waited for a moment, then lopped on hand off of Adrik, "You'll talk," Rogue said, as Adrik screamed in pain, "Sooner. or later."
* * *
Jake sat in the co-pilot seat of the B2-12 helicopter, "Set her down there," Jake said, gesturing for the Colonel to land the 'copter near the trenches. The helicopter kicked up dust and dirt as it came in, landing neatly on the make-shit landing pad. The moment it touched down, Ryu and Cadman, with a now bandaged leg, hopped out. "Colonel-" Jake started. "Give 'em Hell, Jake. I always liked you," Colonel McClelland said, "Stay alive, buddy!" Jake nodded then jumped from the helicopter, dragging Garrett behind him. As soon as all were clear, the helicopter lifted off, and Jake's eyes stung with the dirt flying in small maelstroms left by his Colonel's departure. Jake watched him leave, then followed the others into the bunker to await the arrival of their allies. They all arrived soon after. Christie, Misty, Hayate, Kasumi, and Ayane sat in corners of the small bunker, as Jake dished out orders, "Alright, Kasumi, Ayane, Misty, and Hayate; all in the trenches. Move around at all times. And do quick hit and run strikes. Hayabusa, Cadman and I'll find a spot in the trenches to hold and defend as a small base HQ. Christie; you any good with one of these?" He held up a rifle. Christie identified it from a few feet away, along with some statistics; It was a Tactical Operations Tango 51 sniper rifle. It used 7.62 NATO ammunition, and packed a reasonable punch for it's size. It was a military rifle she'd used on several occasions to take out targets. She grinned, "If I'm not, I shouldn't be doing what I am for a living." Cadman smiled at her, and gave a special look that transferred some images she didn't' quite want to remember. The grin was good, the look was evil. He loved her; until she was hired to kill his father. What he didn't know is that she denied the contract and attempted to stop the assassination. But, she was notorious, and when his father died, and she was at the scene, he really didn't care. I guess, I still love him. I hope. well, that's the past. He just needs all that facts. Why, oh, why won't he believe me? Christie thought. "Uh, Jake! Inbound hostile. vector 1-8-0, 4 miles," the Colonel's voice sounded tense, "Moving to intercept." Jake's face almost glowed with anticipation, "Let's cook!" Misty ran outside the bunker, drew her blade, and looked into the sky. A stream of white gas was being ejected from a. pod? What the heck was this? She jumped into the trench and all but begged for it to begin. The pod sped forward at Mach 5, the fastest thing to ever flow through the atmosphere. An object was in front of it. They collided. "What- AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" The line filled with static. Jake's head sagged, "Casualties of war," now, the war began. He ran down the trench toward a previously selected section where the trench just ended. Hayabusa, Cadman and himself would wait there, and Jake would direct the battle from there with his COM link. Christie took aim on the incoming object. It's hull plating didn't glow orange or red, but white! Pieces of it flew off, as they melted away. An outer shell flew away, and a second inner one remained. "We certainly chose a great enemy to fight," she whispered as she took aim, and waited for the signal to fire. Kasumi ran through the trenches, trying to find the perfect spot to wait for the battle. It seemed somehow slightly reminiscent of an American film. Star wars? was that it? She grinned, proud of her knowledge of other people's cultures, although, she didn't know how that would help her here. The second shell shed, and a man became visible. Instantly slowed, a clear, plastic case slowed the speed to a safe speed, and melted away, sending the 'paratrooper' clean and ready into combat. But this was no paratrooper; it was Rogue Shinobi, Now, where is Toshi? My mission is not complete until he dies.
Part 8 The Wings of a Hero Warning: Some Images May Not be Fit for Kids Under 13.
"Christie, hold your fire. You're the trump card. Don't let him know you're there," Jake's voice whispered in her microphone headpiece. Acknowledging the order, she bent low, concealing herself from view, and tucking the sniper rifle into the crook in her arm. She felt the cold emotion flow over her as it always did. An feeling less expression graced her and she watched her prey move toward the trenches. "He headed due south," she whispered, "Kasumi, Misty, keep your eyes open." "We copy." "Shouldn't Christie get to higher ground?" Cadman, she knew it was him. Jake sighed into the receiver, "it's one guy, I wouldn't panic, but find some that you can get to if things get ugly, kay?" "Alright," Christie said, and glanced ice daggers around the desert base. There was an old guard tower a few dozen meters to the right. Could she make it there? Would it even hold her weight?" A billion split-second calculations buzzed through her head, as her blood began to broil with the anticipation.
Rogue smiled, maniacally, "heheheh, can the little ninjas come out to play?" he said, in a comically low toned voice. He rounded one corner. There was nothing but empty trench. He took one look behind him, leering over his shoulder, and decided to disappear from view for a little bit. Misty turned the corner, and glanced around. Nothing. She could've sworn he'd rounded this corner! Where'd he go? "Misty! He's right above you!" Christie yelled, seeing the sharp red and blue cloak poking over the trench side. It suddenly vanished. Misty hit the ground hard, her mouth filling with desert dirt and sand. The taste of hard, gritty sand in her mouth dried her tongue, and she suddenly felt the air crushed from her lungs. "Poor little ninja!" Rogue whispered. "F**K YOU!" She pulled her legs up, so that they would touch her head, but instead, pounded straight into the back of his skull. He fell of her back, rolling up to standing position. Misty then pushed herself up, and watched the action begin. Kasumi and Ayane dropped from the trench sides, and engaged the foe. A two katanas came from seemingly nowhere, and all the attacks were blocked, dodged or deflected. Giving up on the blade assault, Kasumi placed on foot on the dirt wall of the trench, and pushed herself up, aiming a kick for the head. He slashed, hitting air. She appeared behind him, kicking him square in the base of the spine. He flew forward, and. flipped. Kicking Ayane clear of the trench, in the chin. She was unconscious before she hit the ground. Rogue drew bright red line down Kasumi's thigh, which split into an open wound. Then a nasty hilt smash to the head, took her down as well. Misty was standing now, and ready to fight, recovering from her sudden oxygen deficiency. She smashed her head into his, and he felt blood trickle down his forehead, "There's a stunt you didn't see!" "Come and get it!" Cadman flew over the edge, short sword drawn. He slashed. The blade was repelled by one of Rogue's own. A fierce battle took place. Dirt was kicked up, and Misty found it hard to see and breathe, yet she went on. Sweat dripped off her arms and face, and yet if she stopped she'd be dead. She went on, and suddenly felt her legs go out from under her. She'd twisted an ankle, or sprained it, she couldn't tell anymore. Everything was so dark. Cadman watched her fall, and knew he'd lost. Christie couldn't see with the scope through the dust, and his one sword on two, he couldn't hope to win. Hayabusa and Hayate suddenly appeared, wielding their own blades. Hayabusa came in low, but his blade cut only the fabric of Rogue's cloak. The already ragged piece of cloth flew up through the shroud, and down came a series of darts. They all had almost five inch long needles, with barbs at least a centimeter long each. One hit Hayate in the shoulder, throwing him to the opposite wall and pinning him there. And another hit Hayabusa right. no, it couldn't! Right in the throat! "AAAARGGHH!" Cadman felt pain lance through his arm and leg as darts impaled themselves in his flesh. He collapsed, and for once the dust cloud vanished. Hayate desperately threw his sword at Rogue, but it was easily batted away. Cadman groaned in pain, and watched his old leg wound begin to bleed again, the once sealed injury opening again. Rogue bent low, towards Hayabusa, checked for pulse, and smiled, evilly. "No." Hayate murmured. Rogue chuckled to himself. "That's enough! You want me!" Cadman glared up, and there he was. That mystery ninja from the Arena. Toshi glared down at his foe, Rogue Shinobi. The pair stood glancing for the longest time, and no one saw the pair of gunners walk closer to the action. Jake charged forward, battle cry in his heart and rifle in hand. He fired a quick burst at Rogue. The twin swords came up, blocked the bullets. Rogue did a quick charge, and slashed Jake across he stomach. Jake flew back, suddenly aware of his new pains. "Could you have been more stupid?" "Enough! Fight me, if you can!" Toshi cried his challenge, and attacked, almost flying through the air. A flurry of blades, and fists, Toshi pushed Rogue around the corner with sheer offensive press. Rogue never got a chance to throw his own attacks. Toshi was in a blind rage, attacking anything that moved, and that was Rogue. But, Toshi luck ran out. The same move, and the same voice, "A little o' this, a little o' that!" A scissor block and Toshi's sword flew forward, out of Toshi's hand into the far trench wall. A gut punch and high kick sent Toshi the opposite way. "I gave you the chance of dying, swiftly, Toshi. But you, have elected torture, first." Rogue slashed Toshi across the face, near the left eye. Blood trickled down his face, as Rogue slashed again and again. Old wounds reopened by Rogue's blades, and pain surging through Toshi's body. It was too much. He cried out. Rogue smirked, until the barrel of a Tango 51 slammed into his chest. "Eat it!" Christie said, as she fired. The sniper round made quite a mess coming out, and sent the evil Ninja to the opposite wall. Toshi looked at his sword, and then at his wrist. He gave one final glare at Rogue. Rogue touched his wound, then followed Toshi's gaze. The katana sticking from the wall was at neck level to him. He then gazed sadly at Toshi. "Goodnight, murderer!" And Toshi twitched his wrist, and watched the head roll.
Part 9 Dead or Alive
Cadman, Kasumi, Christie, Ayane and Hayate glanced down on the Cairns they'd built for they're comrades. Hayabusa, Misty, Jake, and Garrett all lay in separate graves. Cadman for the first time saw Kasumi cry. Not drop a tear, but really cry. She couldn't stop weeping over Hayabusa's grave. "It's what Jake would've wanted," Cadman said, simply. Christie grinned, meekly, and tried to hold back her own tears. Hayate had a grim look on his face as he silently said good-bye to a life long friend. Jake and Garrett lay side by side, joined in friendship once again, after 6 years of hatred. Now, they could finally see their love, Marisa again. Maybe. maybe, they found peace in death. Ayane said farewell to her best student, and then turned to leave, but waited for the others. Hayate finished his goodbye, and turned to leave as well. Soon, Kasumi was the only one left. "Ryu," she whispered, "I don't think I ever said it. But, all those times when you tried to protect me. it really, helped me go on. Well," She kicked one foot to the other, "what I'm trying to say is. I love you. I always have." Cadman stopped his departure, sensing that Kasumi had not joined them. He turned back, and watched her for a moment. "Why'd you die?" Kasumi asked, pounding her fist on the cairn. A rock fell off it, and embarrassed she went to place it back. But, a moving hand where the stone had been stopped her. "HEEEEEEEEYYY!" Kasumi yelled as she suddenly began unburying Ryu. Cadman ran to her, and saw the living Ryu laying there, eyes wide open, and an obvious look of pain. He wasn't talking, for obvious reasons, but the guy was alive. Cadman laughed, jovially, and crouched next to him. He offered a hand, to see if Ryu would take it. He did. "Can you speak?" Cadman asked, "You took a nasty blow to the neck." "I think I can manage!" He said, holding up a small medallion. The dart had punched through the layers of cloth, but the lethal blow stopped at the necklace. "But. how?" Christie asked. Ryu smiled and titled his head back, and smiled. He wordlessly bowed 'to' the sky, and began to walk away. "Translation?" Cadman asked, puzzled. Kasumi smiled warmly, "Thank God!"
The End