MASK 2:The Next Generation
AN:Sorry this one took so long, but I've been busy (I got my job back). I'm also working on another fanfic. Not only that, but there was one point where I wasn't too sure about this chapter, but I think it worked out.
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...To Take Its Place
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The agents waited for ten minutes before Agent Gates' special guests arrived. The guests were an older man with brownish-blonde hair, a dark-haired man about Jeremy's age, a younger blonde woman, and an older Japanese man.
"Ah, Matt." greeted Gates. "Glad you could make it."
"Glad to be here." said Matt, the older blonde man. "Sorry we're late, but traffic was terrible. We tried the radio, but KVRC's traffic reporter was absent."
Upon Matt's statement, Liam looked rather embarrassed. He was the absent traffic reporter.
"Matt, this is our new leader." said Gates as he introduced Jeremy.
"Jeremy Sanchez, leader of the second MASK team." said Jeremy as he shook Matt's hand.
"Matt Trakker, your predecessor." said Matt.
"This is the design staff for your vehicles." said Gates as he held out his hand to the other three guests.
"We've been at work since we found out VENOM had a successor." said the dark-haired man as he shook Jeremy's hand. "Jeffrey Almeida, nice to meet you."
"Back atcha." said Jeremy who then turned his attention to the blonde woman.
"Claudia Stewart." greeted the woman with a British accent as she shook Jeremy's hand.
"Welcome aboard." said Jeremy. He then turned to the Japanese man.
"Bruce Sato." he introduced.
"Welcome to our test." said Jeremy as he and Bruce shook hands.
"Bruce is also a former agent." said Matt.
"So, what do you think of the new agents?" asked Jeremy.
Matt and Bruce looked over the new agents of MASK. "I'm not sure what to tell you from looking at them." said Bruce. "But if there's anything to be learned from working with MASK, it's that looks can be deceiving."
"I agree." said Matt. "Ask me again after the test."
"You may begin." said Gates.
"Okay, here's the sitch." said Jeremy. "This is the start of a dirt road. At the end of that dirt road is something that will aid us in our battle against our enemies. Since the Ferret, Bear, and Mammoth have no chance of keeping up with the Skyhawk, Warhorse, or Lightning, they will be allowed to take a few shortcuts." He walked over to a map of the road and pointed to a few marked alternate roads. "The Ferret will be allowed to take these routes while the Mammoth will be allowed to take this access road over here."
"What about the Bear?" asked Max.
"That's the fun part." said Jeremy. "You get to make your own trail. That's where four-wheel-drive comes in handy. You're going overland."
"Alright!" whispered Max.
"So, with that said, let's get ready to go." said Jeremy.
The agents hurried to their vehicles, started them, and pulled up to the starting line. Gates stood in front of them and prepared to start the race.
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"Darwood, this is Blades." announced the spy watching the start of the race. "Hurry up with that backup."
"Blades, this is Darwood." replied his boss. "There's a squadron of Wasps on the way. Keep your shirt on."
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The agents revved their engines in anticipation for the race's start.
Rocky twisted the handle on his Harley. Flames shot out of the exhausts.
Liam, Caitlin, Jeremy, and Max revved their engines. Wei pushed his accelerator and the Mammoth roared in response.
Gates raised his hands and looked to the spectators. Matt gave him a nod. Gates dropped his hands to start the race.
Rocky was first off the line. Caitlin quickly followed. Jeremy and Liam were next out and Max was right behind them. Wei brought up the rear.
Just after the start, Caitlin caught up with Rocky and passed him. Jeremy quickly pulled away from Liam. Wei saw his shortcut and turned towards it. "Brace yourself." he said. Inside the Mammoth, Scooter grabbed a hand rail to keep himself from sliding across the truck.
Just after that, Max saw his shortcut and steered towards it. The Bear hit the rough terrain and bounced over it.
The other vehicles raced down the road until they came to a turn. The Lightning, Warhorse, and Skyhawk continued around the turn to the left while the Ferret banked right and headed into the first shortcut.
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"So, where'd you learn to drive like this?" asked Kenny.
"I worked on a farm back in China." said Wei. "Hold on." He turned the wheel sharply to the right and negotiated a hairpin turn. "My father taught me all about driving heavy equipment. After a while, I managed to get a job at trucking company running between Shanghai and Beijing. I came to the U.S. a year ago."
"Your English is great." said Scooter. "Better than some Americans, in fact."
"Thank you." said Wei. "So, where did you learn survival, Kenny?"
"Same place you learned to drive, my dad." said Kenny. "We grew up just outside of Calgary."
"You're Canadian?" asked Scooter.
"Yep." said Kenny. "Ma and dad were always into the great outdoors and I came to respect nature as they did. I think that's why I became a forest ranger."
"That's cool." said Wei.
"So, how did you get into computers?" asked Kenny.
"In Seattle, it's one of two ways to make a name for yourself," said Scooter "and grunge gives me a headache." Wei and Kenny laughed.
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"You got any off-roading in Italy?" asked Max as the Bear bounced over the rocks and crags.
"In my hometown, roads are practically non-existant." said Enzo.
"Rough terrain?" asked Max.
"Wet terrain. Venice." joked Enzo.
"Ah." said Max. "So, is it as romantic as I've...Whoa!" Max slammed on the brakes and narrowly avoided driving over a cliff. He then set the brake and climbed out to check the area. He climbed back in and told Enzo "I guess we can't go that way."
"The most important thing to remember in mountain climbing is that gravity is not on your side." said Enzo.
"Boy, did I learn that the hard way!" said Max as he turned to drive alongside the cliff.
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The Lightning widened its lead on the Warhorse and Skyhawk as it went through another wide turn. "We've still got a decent lead." said Caitlin.
"Maybe." said Michael. "There's the other end of Liam's shortcut. I wonder where he is."
Just then, the Ferret raced out of the shortcut and swerved through the Lightning's dust cloud. "Doggone it, we're still in second." said Chris.
"Don't worry, lad." said Liam. "We're not out yet." He spotted the next shortcut and steered towards it.
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Around that time, six Wasps pulled up to Blades' position riding Rats.
"Where have you been?" yelled Blades. "They're halfway through the course already! What am I saying? These things aren't programmed for conversation."
Blades then climbed back into the Rabbit and drove towards the base of the mountains. The Wasps followed.
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The MASK agents decended the mountain road. Caitlin led in the Lightning, Jeremy was close behind in the Skyhawk, Rocky was just catching up on the Warhorse, and Liam had just come out of his latest shortcut in the Ferret. He was far behind.
"Now we're last!" yelled Chris.
"Relax, I know what I'm doing." said Liam.
Just then, Max drove down a steep incline in the Bear and bounded in front of the Ferret.
"Dash it, Max!" yelled Liam as he plowed on the brakes.
"Sorry, Liam." gasped Max. "Mountains aren't my strong suit."
Max turned down a hiking trail while Liam continued to his next shortcut.
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"Looks like we're not going to beat Caitlin." said Laura. "She's good."
"That's why I chose her." said Jeremy. "So tell me about yourself, quiet one."
"What do you want me to say?" asked Laura.
"Well, you could tell me about your background." said Jeremy.
"What's to tell?" asked Laura. "I was born in Boston, went to UCLA Medical School, and here I am."
"There are some good medical schools back east." said Jeremy. "Why did you come all the way out to L.A?"
"After eighteen years of living with the most controlling parents ever, I decided I just wanted to live my own life." explained Laura.
"Why did you decide to go into medicine?" asked Jeremy.
"I just hate to see people hurt." said Laura. "I take saving lives very seriously."
"Is something bothering you?" asked Jeremy. "You've been acting weird since the briefing."
"It's about Max." said Laura. "I know him from somewhere, but I can't figure out where."
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"There!" called Scooter. "That's our destination."
Wei looked towards the elevated platform as he drove the Mammoth out of the mountain path. "Looks like we're the first ones." he said.
Just then, Caitlin sped by him in the Lightning. "Spoke too soon." he said.
The Bear rolled out of the mountains and raced past the Mammoth. Then the Skyhawk raced by them both. The Warhorse was right behind the Mammoth with the Ferret dead last.
The Lightning pulled up alongside the platform and stopped. Caitlin and Michael climbed out as the Skyhawk pulled up. Jeremy and Laura climbed out.
"Caitlin, since you won the race, why don't you hand out the party favors?" asked Jeremy.
"If you insist." said Caitlin as she climbed the stairs to the platform. When she reached the top, she found a group of lockers with the agents' names on them. She found the one with her name on it and opened it. She allowed herself a smile when she saw what was inside.
"After you get yours, toss the other ones to us." said Jeremy.
"You got it." called Caitlin. "Mikey." She then tossed something to Michael. "Jeremy." She tossed something to Jeremy. "Laura" she added as she tossed something to her. "Max, Enzo." she added as she tossed a couple of items to them. Enzo looked at what he had been tossed.
"A mask?" he said. "Are you trying to tell me something?"
Caitlin continued tossing masks to her teammates. "These are our backup weapons." said Jeremy. "I believe you were trained with these."
"I was a little skeptical at first." said Michael. "But when they were demonstrated, I was pleasantly surprised."
"And Chris." said Caitlin as she tossed one last mask to Chris.
"Okay, guys." said Jeremy. "It's now time to see how well you use your vehicles in combat. Enzo, Michael, Chris, Laura, and Kenny can sit this one out. At the other end of the field are six drones. Everybody gets to destroy one. Let's go."
The agents donned their masks and ran to their vehicles. Within seconds, they were off.
"We can probably see the action from the platform." said Kenny. "Come on."
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The six vehicles approached the drones. "Caitlin, you seem to have no problem getting there the fastest." said Jeremy. "Why don't you go first?"
"Okay." said Caitlin as she raced towards the drones. "How do I convert this thing?"
"Push the yellow button on the dash." said Jeremy.
"Got it." said Caitlin as she pushed the yellow button on the dashboard. Suddenly, the wheels flipped down to become hover jets. Missile launchers extended from the air intakes and the taillights opened to reveal jet engines. The hood opened to reveal laser cannons.
Caitlin steered towards the drones and released a pair of missiles. Both hit one of the drones, immobilizing it. She followed up with a blast from the laser cannons and the drone exploded.
"I go next." said Jeremy as he approached in the Skyhawk. He tagged a button on the dashboard and set the car's transformation in motion. The front wheels folded back on wings while the rear wheels folded back on horizontal stabilizers. A pair of vertical stabilizers extended from the rear deck and the headlights opened to reveal laser cannons.
Jeremy flew in towards another drone and pelted it with laser blasts. He then flew through the resulting explosion.
Rocky was next. He stopped the Warhorse and pushed a yellow button on the handlebars. The bike split down the middle and a pair of tractor treads lowered from the bottom as the sides spread out. The front forks elevated to become a laser cannon.
Rocky found his target and fired at it with his cannon. Quick work was made of the drone.
"See what you're looking for?" asked Max.
"Aye." said Liam. "Let's hit it." He then pushed the yellow button on his dashboard. The Ferret's side skirts lowered to become landing skids and laser cannons extended from the headlights. The rear doors opened upwards to reveal a rocket launcher and a winch. The rear hatch split and slid open and a tail boom and a set of rotor blades extended from the trunk. The helicopter took off.
Max pushed a similar button on the dashboard of the Bear. A pair of huge tank treads extended from the sides and lowered to the ground. The body elevated to cover the greenhouse and a pair of cannons extended from the headlights. The roof rack swung forward to become a pair of guns and the roof basket swung up to become a radar dish.
"Spotted a target." said Max. He fired a grappling hook from the Bear's brush guard and hatched onto the back of a drone. Liam made a dive in the Ferret and blasted the drone to pieces with the laser cannons and rockets.
"Nice shot!" said Max.
"Here you go." said Liam as he lowered the winch on the Ferret and hooked another drone. He picked it up into the air and Max blew it out of the sky with his cannons.
"Guess that leaves me." said Wei. He pushed the yellow button on the Mammoth's dashboard. The hood swung up to become a radar dish and revealed a pair of lasers on the vehicle's front. The wheels retracted to reveal tractor treads on the front. The sides of the tank extended to the sides and a pair of heavy laser cannons were revealed. Finally, a laser turret extended from the hatch on the tank and the transformation was complete.
"Got one more drone and it's ours." said Scooter. Wei tracked down the last drone. After spotting it, he let loose with the front lasers. The target was quickly destroyed.
"Over so soon?" asked Jeremy.
"Not yet." said Wei. He then pointed the front of the Mammoth at the wreckage of one of the other drones and fired the heavy cannons. The drone wreckage was further reduced to scrap metal. Then, the rear turret focused on another wrecked drone and started firing. The wreckage was torn to pieces.
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"So, what do you think now?" asked Gates.
"They just took on a simple training mission." said Matt. "I'd like to see them handle a real threat."
"Looks like you're about to get your wish." said Jeffrey as he pointed out Blades and the Wasps.
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"Who are those guys?" asked Laura as she saw the new threat.
"I dunno." said Chris. "But I don't think they're on the guest list."
"Great, and us out in the open." said Kenny.
"Come." said Michael as he ran to the side of the platform. "We must help our friends."
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"Good job." said Jeremy as he circled the battlefield. "Now, let's see how you use your masks."
"I can see the drones coming now." said Max.
"We didn't have other drones." said Scooter as he turned to face the approaching androids. "Uh, Jeremy, we've got company." he added.
"Oh no, they've found our training center!" said Jeremy.
"We've got another problem." said Caitlin. "I used up half my rockets taking out that drone. I don't think I have enough to take these guys on."
"Relax, you'd be surprised how easily these guys fall." said Rocky as he turned to face the new problem, then saw the Rabbit. "Wait, that guy in the Volkswagen is human."
"Attack!" called Blades. The Wasps transformed their Rats and Blades followed suit with the Rabbit. After the car stopped, the rear section opened and the hood and fenders folded forward. A tail boom flipped and extended into position as rotor blades elevated and deployed. The newly formed helicopter took off from its platform and flew towards the agents.
"Jeremy, that guy flies." said Wei. "Maybe you and Liam should fight him so the rest of us can concentrate on the ground troops."
"I was just about to suggest the same thing." said Jeremy. "Go for it, Liam."
"Looks like they're about to open fire." said Caitlin.
"Can't shoot if their guns don't work." said Rocky. "Safety, on!"
A yellow beam shone from his mask and bathed one of the Rats. A second later, the Wasp riding the Rat attempted to fire its weapons, but they wouldn't fire.
"I got the next one." said Scooter as he poked his head out of one of the hatches. "Glytch, on!"
A white beam shone from his mask and bathed another Rat. The Wasp riding it suddenly lurched into something resembling a seizure and crashed the bike.
"Two down, four to go." said Caitlin. "I'll go next. Lightspeed, fire!"
A red laser beam shot from her mask and hit a third Rat. Unfortunately, the Rat split into three smaller robots instead of being destroyed.
"Oops." said Caitlin. "That wasn't a good move."
The three mini robots started to move towards the Lightning. It was about that time the agents on foot managed to reach the battle.
Enzo picked up a rock and threw it at one of the robots. "Hey, pick on someone your own size!" he ordered. The three robots turned and flew towards him. "Me and my big mouth." said Enzo sheepishly.
Chris dove to the ground hands-first and somersaulted back to his feet. In the process, he picked up a rock and held it in his right hand. He held back his hand and called "Breaker, on!"
Nothing happened.
"You forgot to plug it in!" said Kenny as he ran over to Chris. He grabbed a cable that led to a glove on Chris' right hand and plugged it into his mask. "Try it now!"
Chris held back his hand again and again called "Breaker, on!" A wave of red energy spread through the rock and Chris threw it at the robot. The rock hit the robot and both exploded.
"Good on ya!" yelled Kenny.
"Guess I should've played for the Cowboys like momma wanted." said Chris.
Laura ran over to the fallen Wasp and looked it over. "It IS a robot." she said. "So, the talk is true." Just then, another of the small robots walked over towards her and started to target her. "Uh, sorry to bother you." The robot started to power up its lasers. "Are you listening to me?" she asked. The robot fired its weapons, but Laura managed to dodge. The shots hit the Wasp instead. Then, the robot fell over and shut down.
Kenny was fighting the robot's companion when it too fell dead.
"What the heck?" he asked.
"The androids!" yelled Laura. "They must be controlling the smaller robots!"
"It's worth a try." said Max as he aimed at another Rat and fired away. The Rat separated into three separate robots like its friend.
Michael ran over to the fallen android and called "Heat, on!"
A red beam shone from his mask and bathed the Wasp. Within seconds, the android started sparking and melting. The robots that had once been its motorcycle quickly shut down.
"It worked!" yelled Laura.
"Hold on, I have a theory." said Enzo. He climbed up on a large boulder and let one of the remaining Rats race over to him. It was unable to climb the boulder and when he had a clear shot, Enzo called "Torque, on!"
A blue spiral beam shone from his mask and bathed the android's head. The head was soon twisted off. The Rat did not separate into robots.
"One more to go." said Rocky as he aimed at the last Rat. He opened fire and took the Wasp's head off. It too remained in motorcycle mode.
"I got the last one." said Caitlin. She flew the Lightning towards the last Rat. As she flew over the android, she released the rear bumper grappling hook and pulled the Wasp off the bike. The Rat began to separate into its separate robots when Wei ran over the Wasp with the Mammoth.
"Is that all of them?" asked Wei.
"I believe it is." said Michael.
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"Darwood's not going to like this." said Blades as he watched the battle wrap up. "Well, I'm outta here."
As he started to fly away, the Ferret flew up in front of him and made him squeal in terror.
"Don't move, lad!" ordered Liam.
"You're in restricted airspace!" informed Jeremy. "Surrender now!"
"No way!" yelled Blades. He then fired off a flare. Jeremy and Liam shielded their eyes as Blades made a run for it.
"We have to get him, Liam!" said Jeremy. "If he reports the location of this facility, Darwood's going to launch a full-scale assault!"
"I've got him!" said Liam. "Twister, on!""
A pair of white tornadoes emerged from Liam's mask and wrapped around the Rabbit. Blades quickly lost control and screamed in panic as he was forced to make a crash landing.
"We've got him." said Jeremy.
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"Well, Matt." said Gates. "Now what do you think?"
"Very impressive." said Matt. "Looks like you chose the right leader. And he chose the right team."
"And I think we have a lead on our case." said Bruce. "We have a captive."
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AN:The next chapter will be here. It just might take a little time. Please, review anyway.
Today's profiles will focus on the Irish cousins, Liam and Max O'Grady. Because of the wait, I'll even throw in a bonus profile (it's just one of the androids though).
Liam O'Grady
Allegiance:MASK 2
Position:Helicopter Pilot
Cover Job:Traffic Reporter
Birthplace:Limerick
Mask:Twister (projects two tornadoes)
Vehicle Code Name:Ferret (Saturn Ion Red Line/Strike Helicopter)
Bio:Liam came to America to help out the family of his uncle (Max's father) after he died. He quickly found a job with a local radio station as a traffic reporter, a position earned by his love of flying and his ability to almost instantly learn a geographic area. When the FBI asked him to try out for MASK 2, he initially refused. Then he learned that an old rival from Ireland was trying out.
Max O'Grady
Allegiance:MASK 2
Position:Infiltration Expert
Cover Job:Extreme Sportsman
Birthplace:Los Angeles
Mask:Whisper (prevents him from making noise or being detected by most sensors)
Vehicle Code Name:Bear (Nissan Xterra/Heavy Battle Tank)
Bio:After his father died, Max discovered extreme sports. After nearly getting himself killed numerous times (he came dangerously close after a rock climb gone awry), he started to re-examine his life. The FBI heard of his skills and called him to try out for MASK 2. He asked them to ask his cousin Liam as well. After they asked Liam to try out, Max accepted their offer, finally finding his purpose.
Hornet
Allegiance:The Foxes (Foxdroid)
Position:Infantry
Vehicle Code Name:none
Bio:After Dr. Frankenstein was tapped by Malcolm Darwood, his first project was a sophisticated but cheaply produced android that could be used for ground troops. He named them the Hornets as he based his androids' command structure on that of bees.
Thank you for reading. More will come.
AN:Sorry this one took so long, but I've been busy (I got my job back). I'm also working on another fanfic. Not only that, but there was one point where I wasn't too sure about this chapter, but I think it worked out.
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...To Take Its Place
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The agents waited for ten minutes before Agent Gates' special guests arrived. The guests were an older man with brownish-blonde hair, a dark-haired man about Jeremy's age, a younger blonde woman, and an older Japanese man.
"Ah, Matt." greeted Gates. "Glad you could make it."
"Glad to be here." said Matt, the older blonde man. "Sorry we're late, but traffic was terrible. We tried the radio, but KVRC's traffic reporter was absent."
Upon Matt's statement, Liam looked rather embarrassed. He was the absent traffic reporter.
"Matt, this is our new leader." said Gates as he introduced Jeremy.
"Jeremy Sanchez, leader of the second MASK team." said Jeremy as he shook Matt's hand.
"Matt Trakker, your predecessor." said Matt.
"This is the design staff for your vehicles." said Gates as he held out his hand to the other three guests.
"We've been at work since we found out VENOM had a successor." said the dark-haired man as he shook Jeremy's hand. "Jeffrey Almeida, nice to meet you."
"Back atcha." said Jeremy who then turned his attention to the blonde woman.
"Claudia Stewart." greeted the woman with a British accent as she shook Jeremy's hand.
"Welcome aboard." said Jeremy. He then turned to the Japanese man.
"Bruce Sato." he introduced.
"Welcome to our test." said Jeremy as he and Bruce shook hands.
"Bruce is also a former agent." said Matt.
"So, what do you think of the new agents?" asked Jeremy.
Matt and Bruce looked over the new agents of MASK. "I'm not sure what to tell you from looking at them." said Bruce. "But if there's anything to be learned from working with MASK, it's that looks can be deceiving."
"I agree." said Matt. "Ask me again after the test."
"You may begin." said Gates.
"Okay, here's the sitch." said Jeremy. "This is the start of a dirt road. At the end of that dirt road is something that will aid us in our battle against our enemies. Since the Ferret, Bear, and Mammoth have no chance of keeping up with the Skyhawk, Warhorse, or Lightning, they will be allowed to take a few shortcuts." He walked over to a map of the road and pointed to a few marked alternate roads. "The Ferret will be allowed to take these routes while the Mammoth will be allowed to take this access road over here."
"What about the Bear?" asked Max.
"That's the fun part." said Jeremy. "You get to make your own trail. That's where four-wheel-drive comes in handy. You're going overland."
"Alright!" whispered Max.
"So, with that said, let's get ready to go." said Jeremy.
The agents hurried to their vehicles, started them, and pulled up to the starting line. Gates stood in front of them and prepared to start the race.
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"Darwood, this is Blades." announced the spy watching the start of the race. "Hurry up with that backup."
"Blades, this is Darwood." replied his boss. "There's a squadron of Wasps on the way. Keep your shirt on."
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The agents revved their engines in anticipation for the race's start.
Rocky twisted the handle on his Harley. Flames shot out of the exhausts.
Liam, Caitlin, Jeremy, and Max revved their engines. Wei pushed his accelerator and the Mammoth roared in response.
Gates raised his hands and looked to the spectators. Matt gave him a nod. Gates dropped his hands to start the race.
Rocky was first off the line. Caitlin quickly followed. Jeremy and Liam were next out and Max was right behind them. Wei brought up the rear.
Just after the start, Caitlin caught up with Rocky and passed him. Jeremy quickly pulled away from Liam. Wei saw his shortcut and turned towards it. "Brace yourself." he said. Inside the Mammoth, Scooter grabbed a hand rail to keep himself from sliding across the truck.
Just after that, Max saw his shortcut and steered towards it. The Bear hit the rough terrain and bounced over it.
The other vehicles raced down the road until they came to a turn. The Lightning, Warhorse, and Skyhawk continued around the turn to the left while the Ferret banked right and headed into the first shortcut.
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"So, where'd you learn to drive like this?" asked Kenny.
"I worked on a farm back in China." said Wei. "Hold on." He turned the wheel sharply to the right and negotiated a hairpin turn. "My father taught me all about driving heavy equipment. After a while, I managed to get a job at trucking company running between Shanghai and Beijing. I came to the U.S. a year ago."
"Your English is great." said Scooter. "Better than some Americans, in fact."
"Thank you." said Wei. "So, where did you learn survival, Kenny?"
"Same place you learned to drive, my dad." said Kenny. "We grew up just outside of Calgary."
"You're Canadian?" asked Scooter.
"Yep." said Kenny. "Ma and dad were always into the great outdoors and I came to respect nature as they did. I think that's why I became a forest ranger."
"That's cool." said Wei.
"So, how did you get into computers?" asked Kenny.
"In Seattle, it's one of two ways to make a name for yourself," said Scooter "and grunge gives me a headache." Wei and Kenny laughed.
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"You got any off-roading in Italy?" asked Max as the Bear bounced over the rocks and crags.
"In my hometown, roads are practically non-existant." said Enzo.
"Rough terrain?" asked Max.
"Wet terrain. Venice." joked Enzo.
"Ah." said Max. "So, is it as romantic as I've...Whoa!" Max slammed on the brakes and narrowly avoided driving over a cliff. He then set the brake and climbed out to check the area. He climbed back in and told Enzo "I guess we can't go that way."
"The most important thing to remember in mountain climbing is that gravity is not on your side." said Enzo.
"Boy, did I learn that the hard way!" said Max as he turned to drive alongside the cliff.
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The Lightning widened its lead on the Warhorse and Skyhawk as it went through another wide turn. "We've still got a decent lead." said Caitlin.
"Maybe." said Michael. "There's the other end of Liam's shortcut. I wonder where he is."
Just then, the Ferret raced out of the shortcut and swerved through the Lightning's dust cloud. "Doggone it, we're still in second." said Chris.
"Don't worry, lad." said Liam. "We're not out yet." He spotted the next shortcut and steered towards it.
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Around that time, six Wasps pulled up to Blades' position riding Rats.
"Where have you been?" yelled Blades. "They're halfway through the course already! What am I saying? These things aren't programmed for conversation."
Blades then climbed back into the Rabbit and drove towards the base of the mountains. The Wasps followed.
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The MASK agents decended the mountain road. Caitlin led in the Lightning, Jeremy was close behind in the Skyhawk, Rocky was just catching up on the Warhorse, and Liam had just come out of his latest shortcut in the Ferret. He was far behind.
"Now we're last!" yelled Chris.
"Relax, I know what I'm doing." said Liam.
Just then, Max drove down a steep incline in the Bear and bounded in front of the Ferret.
"Dash it, Max!" yelled Liam as he plowed on the brakes.
"Sorry, Liam." gasped Max. "Mountains aren't my strong suit."
Max turned down a hiking trail while Liam continued to his next shortcut.
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"Looks like we're not going to beat Caitlin." said Laura. "She's good."
"That's why I chose her." said Jeremy. "So tell me about yourself, quiet one."
"What do you want me to say?" asked Laura.
"Well, you could tell me about your background." said Jeremy.
"What's to tell?" asked Laura. "I was born in Boston, went to UCLA Medical School, and here I am."
"There are some good medical schools back east." said Jeremy. "Why did you come all the way out to L.A?"
"After eighteen years of living with the most controlling parents ever, I decided I just wanted to live my own life." explained Laura.
"Why did you decide to go into medicine?" asked Jeremy.
"I just hate to see people hurt." said Laura. "I take saving lives very seriously."
"Is something bothering you?" asked Jeremy. "You've been acting weird since the briefing."
"It's about Max." said Laura. "I know him from somewhere, but I can't figure out where."
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"There!" called Scooter. "That's our destination."
Wei looked towards the elevated platform as he drove the Mammoth out of the mountain path. "Looks like we're the first ones." he said.
Just then, Caitlin sped by him in the Lightning. "Spoke too soon." he said.
The Bear rolled out of the mountains and raced past the Mammoth. Then the Skyhawk raced by them both. The Warhorse was right behind the Mammoth with the Ferret dead last.
The Lightning pulled up alongside the platform and stopped. Caitlin and Michael climbed out as the Skyhawk pulled up. Jeremy and Laura climbed out.
"Caitlin, since you won the race, why don't you hand out the party favors?" asked Jeremy.
"If you insist." said Caitlin as she climbed the stairs to the platform. When she reached the top, she found a group of lockers with the agents' names on them. She found the one with her name on it and opened it. She allowed herself a smile when she saw what was inside.
"After you get yours, toss the other ones to us." said Jeremy.
"You got it." called Caitlin. "Mikey." She then tossed something to Michael. "Jeremy." She tossed something to Jeremy. "Laura" she added as she tossed something to her. "Max, Enzo." she added as she tossed a couple of items to them. Enzo looked at what he had been tossed.
"A mask?" he said. "Are you trying to tell me something?"
Caitlin continued tossing masks to her teammates. "These are our backup weapons." said Jeremy. "I believe you were trained with these."
"I was a little skeptical at first." said Michael. "But when they were demonstrated, I was pleasantly surprised."
"And Chris." said Caitlin as she tossed one last mask to Chris.
"Okay, guys." said Jeremy. "It's now time to see how well you use your vehicles in combat. Enzo, Michael, Chris, Laura, and Kenny can sit this one out. At the other end of the field are six drones. Everybody gets to destroy one. Let's go."
The agents donned their masks and ran to their vehicles. Within seconds, they were off.
"We can probably see the action from the platform." said Kenny. "Come on."
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The six vehicles approached the drones. "Caitlin, you seem to have no problem getting there the fastest." said Jeremy. "Why don't you go first?"
"Okay." said Caitlin as she raced towards the drones. "How do I convert this thing?"
"Push the yellow button on the dash." said Jeremy.
"Got it." said Caitlin as she pushed the yellow button on the dashboard. Suddenly, the wheels flipped down to become hover jets. Missile launchers extended from the air intakes and the taillights opened to reveal jet engines. The hood opened to reveal laser cannons.
Caitlin steered towards the drones and released a pair of missiles. Both hit one of the drones, immobilizing it. She followed up with a blast from the laser cannons and the drone exploded.
"I go next." said Jeremy as he approached in the Skyhawk. He tagged a button on the dashboard and set the car's transformation in motion. The front wheels folded back on wings while the rear wheels folded back on horizontal stabilizers. A pair of vertical stabilizers extended from the rear deck and the headlights opened to reveal laser cannons.
Jeremy flew in towards another drone and pelted it with laser blasts. He then flew through the resulting explosion.
Rocky was next. He stopped the Warhorse and pushed a yellow button on the handlebars. The bike split down the middle and a pair of tractor treads lowered from the bottom as the sides spread out. The front forks elevated to become a laser cannon.
Rocky found his target and fired at it with his cannon. Quick work was made of the drone.
"See what you're looking for?" asked Max.
"Aye." said Liam. "Let's hit it." He then pushed the yellow button on his dashboard. The Ferret's side skirts lowered to become landing skids and laser cannons extended from the headlights. The rear doors opened upwards to reveal a rocket launcher and a winch. The rear hatch split and slid open and a tail boom and a set of rotor blades extended from the trunk. The helicopter took off.
Max pushed a similar button on the dashboard of the Bear. A pair of huge tank treads extended from the sides and lowered to the ground. The body elevated to cover the greenhouse and a pair of cannons extended from the headlights. The roof rack swung forward to become a pair of guns and the roof basket swung up to become a radar dish.
"Spotted a target." said Max. He fired a grappling hook from the Bear's brush guard and hatched onto the back of a drone. Liam made a dive in the Ferret and blasted the drone to pieces with the laser cannons and rockets.
"Nice shot!" said Max.
"Here you go." said Liam as he lowered the winch on the Ferret and hooked another drone. He picked it up into the air and Max blew it out of the sky with his cannons.
"Guess that leaves me." said Wei. He pushed the yellow button on the Mammoth's dashboard. The hood swung up to become a radar dish and revealed a pair of lasers on the vehicle's front. The wheels retracted to reveal tractor treads on the front. The sides of the tank extended to the sides and a pair of heavy laser cannons were revealed. Finally, a laser turret extended from the hatch on the tank and the transformation was complete.
"Got one more drone and it's ours." said Scooter. Wei tracked down the last drone. After spotting it, he let loose with the front lasers. The target was quickly destroyed.
"Over so soon?" asked Jeremy.
"Not yet." said Wei. He then pointed the front of the Mammoth at the wreckage of one of the other drones and fired the heavy cannons. The drone wreckage was further reduced to scrap metal. Then, the rear turret focused on another wrecked drone and started firing. The wreckage was torn to pieces.
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"So, what do you think now?" asked Gates.
"They just took on a simple training mission." said Matt. "I'd like to see them handle a real threat."
"Looks like you're about to get your wish." said Jeffrey as he pointed out Blades and the Wasps.
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"Who are those guys?" asked Laura as she saw the new threat.
"I dunno." said Chris. "But I don't think they're on the guest list."
"Great, and us out in the open." said Kenny.
"Come." said Michael as he ran to the side of the platform. "We must help our friends."
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"Good job." said Jeremy as he circled the battlefield. "Now, let's see how you use your masks."
"I can see the drones coming now." said Max.
"We didn't have other drones." said Scooter as he turned to face the approaching androids. "Uh, Jeremy, we've got company." he added.
"Oh no, they've found our training center!" said Jeremy.
"We've got another problem." said Caitlin. "I used up half my rockets taking out that drone. I don't think I have enough to take these guys on."
"Relax, you'd be surprised how easily these guys fall." said Rocky as he turned to face the new problem, then saw the Rabbit. "Wait, that guy in the Volkswagen is human."
"Attack!" called Blades. The Wasps transformed their Rats and Blades followed suit with the Rabbit. After the car stopped, the rear section opened and the hood and fenders folded forward. A tail boom flipped and extended into position as rotor blades elevated and deployed. The newly formed helicopter took off from its platform and flew towards the agents.
"Jeremy, that guy flies." said Wei. "Maybe you and Liam should fight him so the rest of us can concentrate on the ground troops."
"I was just about to suggest the same thing." said Jeremy. "Go for it, Liam."
"Looks like they're about to open fire." said Caitlin.
"Can't shoot if their guns don't work." said Rocky. "Safety, on!"
A yellow beam shone from his mask and bathed one of the Rats. A second later, the Wasp riding the Rat attempted to fire its weapons, but they wouldn't fire.
"I got the next one." said Scooter as he poked his head out of one of the hatches. "Glytch, on!"
A white beam shone from his mask and bathed another Rat. The Wasp riding it suddenly lurched into something resembling a seizure and crashed the bike.
"Two down, four to go." said Caitlin. "I'll go next. Lightspeed, fire!"
A red laser beam shot from her mask and hit a third Rat. Unfortunately, the Rat split into three smaller robots instead of being destroyed.
"Oops." said Caitlin. "That wasn't a good move."
The three mini robots started to move towards the Lightning. It was about that time the agents on foot managed to reach the battle.
Enzo picked up a rock and threw it at one of the robots. "Hey, pick on someone your own size!" he ordered. The three robots turned and flew towards him. "Me and my big mouth." said Enzo sheepishly.
Chris dove to the ground hands-first and somersaulted back to his feet. In the process, he picked up a rock and held it in his right hand. He held back his hand and called "Breaker, on!"
Nothing happened.
"You forgot to plug it in!" said Kenny as he ran over to Chris. He grabbed a cable that led to a glove on Chris' right hand and plugged it into his mask. "Try it now!"
Chris held back his hand again and again called "Breaker, on!" A wave of red energy spread through the rock and Chris threw it at the robot. The rock hit the robot and both exploded.
"Good on ya!" yelled Kenny.
"Guess I should've played for the Cowboys like momma wanted." said Chris.
Laura ran over to the fallen Wasp and looked it over. "It IS a robot." she said. "So, the talk is true." Just then, another of the small robots walked over towards her and started to target her. "Uh, sorry to bother you." The robot started to power up its lasers. "Are you listening to me?" she asked. The robot fired its weapons, but Laura managed to dodge. The shots hit the Wasp instead. Then, the robot fell over and shut down.
Kenny was fighting the robot's companion when it too fell dead.
"What the heck?" he asked.
"The androids!" yelled Laura. "They must be controlling the smaller robots!"
"It's worth a try." said Max as he aimed at another Rat and fired away. The Rat separated into three separate robots like its friend.
Michael ran over to the fallen android and called "Heat, on!"
A red beam shone from his mask and bathed the Wasp. Within seconds, the android started sparking and melting. The robots that had once been its motorcycle quickly shut down.
"It worked!" yelled Laura.
"Hold on, I have a theory." said Enzo. He climbed up on a large boulder and let one of the remaining Rats race over to him. It was unable to climb the boulder and when he had a clear shot, Enzo called "Torque, on!"
A blue spiral beam shone from his mask and bathed the android's head. The head was soon twisted off. The Rat did not separate into robots.
"One more to go." said Rocky as he aimed at the last Rat. He opened fire and took the Wasp's head off. It too remained in motorcycle mode.
"I got the last one." said Caitlin. She flew the Lightning towards the last Rat. As she flew over the android, she released the rear bumper grappling hook and pulled the Wasp off the bike. The Rat began to separate into its separate robots when Wei ran over the Wasp with the Mammoth.
"Is that all of them?" asked Wei.
"I believe it is." said Michael.
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"Darwood's not going to like this." said Blades as he watched the battle wrap up. "Well, I'm outta here."
As he started to fly away, the Ferret flew up in front of him and made him squeal in terror.
"Don't move, lad!" ordered Liam.
"You're in restricted airspace!" informed Jeremy. "Surrender now!"
"No way!" yelled Blades. He then fired off a flare. Jeremy and Liam shielded their eyes as Blades made a run for it.
"We have to get him, Liam!" said Jeremy. "If he reports the location of this facility, Darwood's going to launch a full-scale assault!"
"I've got him!" said Liam. "Twister, on!""
A pair of white tornadoes emerged from Liam's mask and wrapped around the Rabbit. Blades quickly lost control and screamed in panic as he was forced to make a crash landing.
"We've got him." said Jeremy.
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"Well, Matt." said Gates. "Now what do you think?"
"Very impressive." said Matt. "Looks like you chose the right leader. And he chose the right team."
"And I think we have a lead on our case." said Bruce. "We have a captive."
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AN:The next chapter will be here. It just might take a little time. Please, review anyway.
Today's profiles will focus on the Irish cousins, Liam and Max O'Grady. Because of the wait, I'll even throw in a bonus profile (it's just one of the androids though).
Liam O'Grady
Allegiance:MASK 2
Position:Helicopter Pilot
Cover Job:Traffic Reporter
Birthplace:Limerick
Mask:Twister (projects two tornadoes)
Vehicle Code Name:Ferret (Saturn Ion Red Line/Strike Helicopter)
Bio:Liam came to America to help out the family of his uncle (Max's father) after he died. He quickly found a job with a local radio station as a traffic reporter, a position earned by his love of flying and his ability to almost instantly learn a geographic area. When the FBI asked him to try out for MASK 2, he initially refused. Then he learned that an old rival from Ireland was trying out.
Max O'Grady
Allegiance:MASK 2
Position:Infiltration Expert
Cover Job:Extreme Sportsman
Birthplace:Los Angeles
Mask:Whisper (prevents him from making noise or being detected by most sensors)
Vehicle Code Name:Bear (Nissan Xterra/Heavy Battle Tank)
Bio:After his father died, Max discovered extreme sports. After nearly getting himself killed numerous times (he came dangerously close after a rock climb gone awry), he started to re-examine his life. The FBI heard of his skills and called him to try out for MASK 2. He asked them to ask his cousin Liam as well. After they asked Liam to try out, Max accepted their offer, finally finding his purpose.
Hornet
Allegiance:The Foxes (Foxdroid)
Position:Infantry
Vehicle Code Name:none
Bio:After Dr. Frankenstein was tapped by Malcolm Darwood, his first project was a sophisticated but cheaply produced android that could be used for ground troops. He named them the Hornets as he based his androids' command structure on that of bees.
Thank you for reading. More will come.