Chris stared at Wesker in utter shock. Rebecca figured that she probably looked pretty shocked herself, but she didn't care.

Holy shit! She thought to herself. She had just about convinced herself that Wesker was still an asshole when he had to go and save Claire's life, sending all her opinions flying out the window. Rebecca didn't get it. His job description hadn't included saving anyone, and he hated all of them with a passion--especially Chris. So why the hell had he saved one of the people Chris cared the most about?

Claire stood absolutely rigid after Wesker set her down. One minute, she had been about to become zombie food, the next, the person who hated her the most was carrying her to safety. Leon ran over to her and started checking to see if she was OK.

Rebecca took over that job, and finally looked up, saying, "She's fine." Everyone let out a sigh of relief, and then turned their attention to Wesker.

Chris was the one to ask the question that was on everyone's mind: "Why did you save her? Don't get me wrong, we're all very grateful, but we don't understand why you'd risk your neck to save someone you didn't even particularly like."

Wesker looked thoughtful for a moment, then answered (if not a bit amusingly). "It was the assault rifles. I wanted one, so I hoped if you deemed me trustworthy you'd give me one."

Everyone stared at him for a moment, and then laughed. "OK, OK. The truth is, I had a sudden attack of conscience. I dragged you guys into this mess, and I felt bad. You guys don't deserve to die anymore than I do, and that's why I saved her." Claire looked at him and smiled gratefully. "Well, thanks a lot, Wesker. I really appreciate you preventing me form becoming a zombie Thanksgiving."

Everyone laughed and began looking for a way into the lab below.

Jill was the one who figured out how to get into the lab. It was simple, really. They had found a library full of science books, and Jill had noticed a copy of Pride and Prejudice on the end of one of the shelves. When she took it out and replaced it with a copy of Crime and Punishment she found on the table, the bookcase swung open, revealing a long staircase leading down. Taking a deep breath and praying that nothing bad would happen, Jill led the team down the stairs into the unknown.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Disclaimer is here. You know what it is, so I won't type it. Capcom is a very lucky company.