Chapter 27: Jacob's Last Stand

"Dead?" Hearing that Eli was dead came as a shock to Kyle. He read the man as the cautious sort who wouldn't take risks. "What happened?"

The boy shuffled his feet. "Eli got word that Jacob was having a meeting with people from the Henbene at a location not too far east of here. He asked around and many of the scouts reported peggies moving in from the Henbene region. It convinced Eli that the info was legit. So about two days ago, almost all of us move out to take out Jacob. It was weird because it was during the day, and we usually operate at night. Anyways, so we surround the area so no one can get out and we move in. But we find that the place is empty. Then we come under fire from all angles. Eli got shot immediately trying to direct everyone and Parker got killed trying to save him." The boy looked down, trying to hide his guilt. "I managed to get away and get back to the bunker. Tammy managed to lead a few of our people back but we lost a lot of them in that ambush."

Kyle took a look at the group that was behind the boy and noticed that Tammy wasn't with them. "So are you guys all that's left? Where's Tammy?"

"Well that's the thing…." The boy said meekly. "After we had gotten back, I said that we should try to find you. I know that you've been putting a real hurt on the peggies. Even though Eli told us to shoot you on sight if we ever saw you, I didn't really go along with it. Neither did them." He gestured to the group behind him.

"Tammy didn't want any part of it. She said we were going to stick by Eli's orders and hold out here until we could think of a new plan. But I don't think she has a plan. I think she just wants to hole up in the bunker and hope that someone takes out the cult for them."

"And you're out here because you disagree with her, right?"

"Yes. My name is Wheaty by the way. We came out here because we wanted to help you." He took a brief glance at Faith. "Like I said, we disagreed with Eli's orders and based on what I've heard, we were right to come to you."

"What did you hear?"

Wheaty smiled for the first time though it was slight. "We heard that you and Faith stormed the Henbene bunker and took out their leader."

Kyle nodded. "We all did it, as a team. We would be glad to have you on board Wheaty." He looked at the rest of the people behind him. "You guys are welcome as well. We need all the help we can get."

Wheaty's group breathed a sigh of relief. They readied their weapons and stood behind the boy like they were waiting for orders.

"We better get going." Wheaty warned. "I'm sure Tammy wouldn't be happy seeing us interacting with you guys."

"Good idea. Let's get back to the trucks and plan out next move." They all headed back to the vehicles and made a circle around the lead truck.

"Alright" Kyle began. "So where do we think Jacob is at now?"

"He's most likely at the Veterans Center." Faith offered.

Kyle tried to think of where that was at but was drawing a blank. "Where was that again?"

"Anyone have a map?" Faith asked.

Wheaty pulled a map and marker from his backpack and gave it to her. She laid that map on the hood of the truck and began to mark the top right portion of the map. Everyone leaned in for a closer look.

"So the Veteran's Center is here." Faith pointed to a large circle on the map. "There's only one road that leads to it. Its also protected by a tall, fenced enclosure with a gate where the road becomes a driveway. Jacob usually has his people within the enclosure but outside the building to be able to react to attacks. But there's also the possibility that we could receive gunfire from the upper floors or the roof."

"Is there any backdoor entrances?" Grace asked.

"No. Jacob runs a tight ship. He requires everyone to come through the front and check in and he's not the type to have an emergency exit."

"So it looks the problem will be that fence." Someone from the crowd commented.

Faith nodded. "The enclosure will indeed be a problem. However, if we find a way to get through that, then I think we should have no problems getting to Jacob himself."

Kyle studied the map while everyone waited for him to make a decision. "So it looks like we're going to need some explosives." He turned to Wheaty. "Did you happen to bring any of those?"

The boy shook his head. "Tammy had whatever explosives we had under strict guard. I was only able to get stuff from Eli's room and the guns we had on our person. Sorry."

Kyle grinned. "Its alright. Luckily, I have somewhat of a back-up plan even if its not the best."

Jess immediately picked up on what Kyle was talking about. "Oh no, please tell you're not going to ask the fucking idiot duo to come by…."

"Afraid so Jess." He took out his radio. "Adelaide, are you there?"

"I'm here honey. It feels like its been forever! I heard you took out the head honcho at the Henbene bunker."

"We did Adelaide, but uh, listen. Are Hurk and Sharky available?"

There was a brief silence. "Yes…..why?"

Kyle looked at the map and gave her their location coordinates. "Could drop those two off here? Also tell them to bring as many explosives as they can."

"I hope you haven't gone off the deep end darling. Are you sure about what you're asking?" She asked with obvious worry.

"Yes Adelaide, I'm sure. We need all the firepower we can get."

"Alright honey. Its going to take me a bit to roust them, gather what they need and fly them over so just sit tight, ok?"

"We'll be here. Thanks Adelaide." He then ended the call and turned to the gathered crowd. "You are all free until our reinforcements come in. Just don't wander too far."

The crowd split up into groups to talk amongst themselves. Faith and Jess remained by Kyle when they were approached by Hudson.

"Kyle, could we talk?"

He tilted his head in confusion. "Yeah, whats up Hudson?"

"I know its seems like a lifetime ago, but I've been wondering about our team that when to try and capture Joseph. You rescued me and I know the sheriff is alright, but what about the other two? I know that Burke was an ass, but I still wonder what happened to him and Pratt."

Kyle and Faith looked at each other. The truth would have had to be revealed at some point. They turned back to Hudson. "Burke is dead, Hudson." Kyle finally said.

"And unfortunately, so is your friend Pratt." Faith added.

Hudson's face went to shock and then sadness even though she wasn't surprised about what she was told. "How did it happen?" She asked slowly.

"Let me explain this Kyle." Faith said before he could speak. She took a step towards Hudson.

"Ms. Hudson." Faith tried to be reassuring. "After your attempted arrest of Joseph, you three were captured with only Kyle and the sheriff escaping….."

Hudson nodded to show that she was following along.

"When you were captured…." Faith continued. "…you were each sent to the different heralds. You were sent to John, Pratt was sent to Jacob, and I was given the marshal, Burke. Unfortunately, you know well that John was quite cruel. He wanted to torture you and hold you up as an example of what happens to those that dared defied him. Luckily, Kyle was able to get you free and I was able to free him." She turned and smile briefly at Kyle before turning back to Hudson.

"Jacob was not as cruel as John but he is one with little patience. He was hoping that Pratt would provide useful information about you guys or any more law enforcement that could be coming. But Jacob couldn't get anything out of him, so he had him killed."

Hudson sighed heavily. "Oh Pratt…" She lamented. "He knew what we were getting into and warned us. But we still went ahead with it, and it cost him his life." She took a few moments to compose herself. "And what happened with Burke?"

"Burke was sent to me." Faith explained. "I was to convert him over to our cause. The plan was that we would be able to send him back out to discover if any more outside forces would be coming. It was actually easier than I thought I would be. The man had realized that he had gone in way over his head. It only took a little persuasion to convert him over to the project." She sighed before continuing. "Of course, this was when I was still with project. I may have left, but Burke remained. Perhaps it was my fault, but he became a big believer in the Father's ideals. He was thus loyal to him and also to Joanna."

"Who's Joanna?" Hudson asked.

"Joanna was my replacement. She was originally my second in command. Joanna was just as devoted to The Father as Burke became. Because of that she was also very devoted to me and became someone I could always rely on. Joanna took my departure rather hard. I think she thought that it had to be some sort of master plan. I used this to trick her into thinking I was coming back. When we infiltrated the bunker, Kyle and I split up. This was intentionally done so I would reach Joanna first where I convinced her I had returned to the project. I convinced her to send Burke at Kyle knowing full well that Kyle would emerge victorious. Joanna would resort to her trap and think that she had won. When she let down her guard, I eliminated her." Faith said coldly.

Hudson nodded. Faith had changed a lot since she last saw her. Before she had been somewhat timid, now she was standing strong still by Kyle's side. Hudson turned to Kyle. "So did that asshole say anything when you faced him?"

He shrugged. "He was still just as arrogant as ever. He was very confident that he would win. I do admit that he made me pause because at that time, I didn't know all that was going on."

Hudson smiled for the first time in the conversation. "I guess he got what was coming to him. But I have to say, after that failed OP, I lost hope. But you guys sure as hell have restored it with what you've done. Not even just me, I'm sure many people are appreciate of what you guys have done, and so short a time."

Faith and Kyle looked away in embarrassment while Jess continued to scowl. They continued to wait around until they heard the sound of a helicopter. Sure enough, the pink helicopter appeared flying in from the east. An area was cleared for Adelaide to land and as soon as she landed, Hurk and Sharky immediately exited the helicopter and raced up to the group. Adelaide approached Kyle more calmly, but she was sporting a wide smile.

"It's been a long time darling." She looked at everyone else. "I see you got your whole entourage here. I'm assuming you're going after Jacob?"

Kyle couldn't help but smile back. "That's the plan."

"We heard about what happened with the Henbene bunker. Or rather, we figured out what had happened when we saw at least two peggies trucks hightailing past the marina heading north. Honestly hon, I don't think even Jacob stands a chance against you guys. I don't know why you wanted to two nimrods over there to join you."

"Jacob's going to be a bit tougher to crack Adelaide. We're not going to be able to sneak in this time and the place is fortified. I figured I'd do you a solid and get those two off your hands and actually try to put them to use."

"All I heard on the trip here was how excited they were that they were going into battle with you. They may be a bit stupid but I think they'll be willing to do whatever you ask of them. Speaking of which, do you guys need me at all? I think Xander should be able to manage the marina for a bit if you need me and Tulip. I've kinda been itching for some action myself.

Kyle shook his head. "I appreciate the offer Adelaide but I don't want to risk you getting shot down. We should be fine with I have planned. I appreciate the offer though.

"Alright darling, but you need to promise me one thing. When you go after Joseph, you give me a call. I have a score to settle with that son of a bitch."

He nodded. "Will do Adelaide, and thanks again."

After saying their goodbyes, Adelaide returned to Tulip and took off back towards the marina. Kyle waved the rest of the group over including Hurk and Sharky who were giddy with excitement. Kyle laid that map back over the truck hood. "Alright here's the plan." He pointed to a spot below the veteran's center. "We're going to do something similar to what we did at the conservatory although we should expect much more opposition this time. We're going to stop at this spot and split into two teams. My group will head up along the forest and hills to the west. The second group will continue down the road and blow a hole in the gate as well as make another hole here."

Kyle turned to Grace. "Can you lead the second team?" When she nodded in confirmation, he turned to Hurk. "You're going to be in group two as well. Can I trust you to blast the two openings?"

Hurk smiled enthusiastically "You can count on me amigo!"

Kyle wasn't completely convinced but turned back towards the rest of the group. "Although important, I need to stress group two's role. They are the diversionary team. The main objective is to draw the enemies' attention and make them have to defend two entryways. Once my team enters from the west, we'll eliminate any opposition outside the building then head in together."

He turned to Sharky. "You guys brought other explosives right?"

"Hell yeah we did! Although we were only able to find a crap load of dynamite. I think it'll do the trick, boss."

Kyle nodded and once again turned back towards the rest of the group. "Alright, then team one will be me, Faith, Jess, Hudson and Sharky. The rest of you guys will be under Grace's command. Any questions?"

Only Hurk spoke up. "Uh amigo, after I blast those walls, I can start blasting other stuff right?"

"Hurk, besides the two openings, you are only allowed to use the rockets when either Grace or I tell you to, do you understand? Kyle didn't mean to sound so harsh but he had to make sure that Hurk wouldn't screw anything up."

The Drubman was dejected. "Alright, I got you."

"Good, we'll leave in thirty minutes so everyone get your stuff ready."

When the time came, everyone loaded up into their respective vehicles. Grace's truck was at full capacity with her team. Kyle drove the lead truck with Faith in the front and Jess, Hudson and Sharky in the back. Jess immediately took the window opposite Sharky and just stared out at the landscape. Hudson worked on maintaining her gun. Meanwhile Sharky, started barraging Faith with a multitude of questions, asking what kind of music she liked, if she ever saw this particular movie, Hurk's monkey-god. Faith continued to be polite and answered what she could. Eventually though, Kyle had enough and gave Sharky a death stare via the rearview mirror. It was enough to shut Sharky up for the rest of the trip which earned a quick pat from Faith and a small smirk from Jess.

They soon reached the stopping point to which Kyle pulled over to the side. His group exited and milled about while he went over to Grace who had pulled up behind them. "Have half of your guys go over and use my truck. You'll be the one going first with Hurk. Have him blast the two holes and then get your guys in cover behind the trucks, one truck to a breach." He ordered. "Don't try to play hero. Your objective is to distract them until we get in and hit them from the side. You'll know when its good to push forward."

Grace nodded. "When do you want me to start the attack?"

"When we get into position, I'll contact you over the radio. Remember, no heroics. Make sure that Hurk doesn't do anything too stupid. Also, keep an eye on the kid." He motioned to where Wheaty was."

"Alright, got it. We'll be good over here. You take care of yourself too Kyle."

After a parting nod, Kyle waved his group over and they started their trek through the woods. "So how are we going to get through the wall? Faith asked.

Kyle turned to Sharky as they traveled. "What explosives did you bring with you?"

Sharky grinned mischievously. "I got a whole bunch of dynamite boss. Thing is, I need a lighter. I'm pretty sure that Jess has one."

"Are you sure you want this idiot to be handling the explosives?" Jess complained. "He's more liable to blow us up than the wall."

Bonshaw frowned. I'm hurt Black. I would have thought you'd have more trust in me. This is Sharky you're talking about."

"I know exactly who I'm talking about and past experience tell me not to have trust in your ass. The only reason you're here is cause Kyle took pity on you and wants you to actually do something useful for once."

"Hey! I managed to blow up the bridge that took out John right? Give me some credit."

"Luckily, you didn't take us out with him." Jess snapped back.

As much as it was for Kyle and Faith to watch and listen to the two argue; there was a chance that their argument could be heard and would let to the group being discovered. Kyle thus moved to end it. "Jess, its fine. He does have a point. He did follow orders for when we took out John. Could you lend him your lighter please?"

Jess begrudgingly handed it over. "Don't lose it." She warned.

Despite the threat, Sharky's smile was back as he thought he had won the argument. "So what's the plan boss? Am I just going to toss these at the wall?"

Kyle shook his head. "I'm going to have you stack all the dynamite at the base and light one of them to detonate them all at once."

Sharky now looked nervous. "You sure that's safe?"

"Nothing with dynamite is safe but that way is best." Kyle replied.

"Alright boss, if you say so boss."

As Sharky careful made his way toward the wall, Kyle pulled out his radio. "You're all clear to begin your attack Grace."

Kyle, Hudson, Faith and Jess waited around, watching Sharky stack the dynamite against the wall. They then heard the sound of gunfire, followed by an explosion. "That idiot better hurry and not fuck everything up." Jess said impatiently. Another explosion was heard with more gunfire. The three were so distracted by what was going on that they didn't notice Sharky frantically approaching them.

"Y'all might want to take cover. Explosion is going to be a doozy." He warned running past them. They quickly followed him to take cover as well. They went prone behind a small rise as the dynamite exploded, blowing a huge opening into the wall and scattering debris everywhere.

"Lets go." Kyle ordered and they started running for the breach. Taking cover on the side of the building, they were able to oversee the gun battle that had been going on.

"What was that explosion?!" One of the peggies hiding behind cover asked.

"I don't know! Sounded like it came from the rear!" Another shouted.

"How many explosives do these guys have? Someone go check it out!" The first peggie ordered.

"We're under too much fire!" Another shouted as his cover was peppered with bullets.

"I'll go." Announced from the rear. He ran toward the corner and came face to face with Kyle's team. "Sinners!" Was all the man could shout before Jess had shot an arrow into his neck. The other cultists turned to see what was going on but they were immediately shot at by the rest of Kyle's group. Now under fire from two directions, the cultists between the wall and the center were cleared out.

"Grace, you're clear to move up." Kyle radioed over.

There was a few moments of statics before a response came. "We're still pinned down by fire coming from the upper windows! We already have some wounded from the shot we took from there!"

Kyle thought quickly. "Can you get Hurk to fire a shot at the windows?!"

"He's pinned down as well." Grace answered.

"Alright, just hold your position. We'll move into the building. Just be ready in case Jacob tries to flee."

"Roger that!"

Kyle and his team carefully entered through the front entrance. Besides the occasional gunfire coming from outside, the place was strangely quiet. "Faith, do you know your way around here?"

She frowned, trying to think. "I was only here a few times so I'm not too familiar with the place. However, I believe I know where the command room would be."

She started forward but was stopped by Kyle. "Wait! Let me and Jess take the lead. You can point out where to go. Hudson, Sharky! You cover our back."

"Got it boss."

Jess and Kyle took their positions at the front. "Take a right at 2nd junction." Faith directed. They proceeded carefully, wary of an attempt at an ambush. When they reached the junction, there was still no sign of any cultists. "Make a left at the next junction."

As they approached, Kyle sensed something was up. "Wait here." He said quietly as he approached the corner. He peeked around the corner and was immediately met buy a hail of bullets. "Shit!" He cursed as he barely managed to duck behind the corner. The cultists quickly ceased firing after Kyle had ducked back.

"Jess move across to the other side, I'll cover you!" Kyle then readied his weapon and quickly shot down the junction where the cultists were. While they were suppressed, Jess quickly moved to the other side and as soon as she got there, the cultists returned fire, sending the mercenary and the huntress back behind cover.

"Alright here's what we're going to do, we're going to constantly suppress them in order to move up. Jess, you move up from the right, then Hudson, you follow behind her. Sharky and I will move up over here. I'll go first and you guys cover me. Then Jess will move up and we'll cover her. Then Hudson, then Sharky etc. Faith, you watch our backs and make sure no one sneaks up on us."

They all nodded and got ready. "Go!" Sharky peaked around and fired with his Smg while Jess fired a few arrows. Hudson then moved to Jess' side of the corridor. Kyle then moved up to the next cover. They then all took turns at firing at the cultists so the next one could move up. As they moved up, the peggies finally started retreating down the left corridor. When Kyle peaked around the corner to see where they had retreated to, they were gone.

"That's strange." Faith remarked.

"What is?" asked Jess.

"The command room is this way." She pointed to the other side of the junction. "Why would they go the other way?"

Kyle shrugged. "Maybe they're taking an alternate route?"

"But that hallway is the only one that leads to the command room…"

"Well, let's not worry about that now. We'll keep moving." They proceeded down the hallway that Faith had indicated. The team quickly found the room labeled as the 'command room'. Kyle and Jess each got on one side of the doorway then kicked it in. To their surprise, the room was empty.

"What the fuck? Where is he?" Jess asked. They all looked around the room to find any clues.

"He's usually always here." Faith remarked. It seemed strange. Jacob was almost always in this room, making calls to his subordinates or planning out on a map. Where could he be? They all then heard a sound that gradually became louder and louder. Kyle quickly recognized it as the sound of a helicopter. "The roof!" He shouted.

They all sprinted out of the room with Faith leading the way to the roof entrance. As soon as Kyle opened the door to the roof, he was met by a hail of bullets which forced him to take cover. He managed to peek around the corner to see two helicopters loaded with cultists about to take off. Jacob had to be on one of the copters, but the gunfire prevented Kyle from doing anything. He was forced to watch helplessly as the helicopters took off. But then he had an idea and took out his radio.

"Grace! Have Hurk bring down those helicopters!"

A few seconds later, a rocket flew up the ground and hit the back end of the first copter. It spun out of control, flinging some of its occupants to their doom. It eventually crashed to the ground in a fiery explosion. The second helicopter saw what had happened and took evasive maneuvers. When a second rocket came, the helicopter managed to dodge it and continue its trek south.

"He's out of ammo Kyle."

Kyle stood on the roof with his crew as they watch the helicopter fly away. He hoped that first copter had been carrying Jacob. But his hopes were dashed when he saw Jacob stick himself out the side and gave him a mocking salute. The eldest Seed would live to fight another day.