Love Struck Delusion

Chapter 167 – Raptor's contract.

Zeta's POV.

"Where to start?"

Hecan carefully reached over to a laptop he had on the side of his desk as I glanced back at Raptor who was just looking so relaxed by all this. His eyes said otherwise cause I could tell he had no idea up till now he was wanted. But for what and why? For being with the rebellion? Who the fuck cares? I asked myself as Hecan could be seen typing on the computer. Looking to my sister who kept herself just as interested in the subject, I noticed she had some fur on her duster. I could tell it was hers as Hecan soon urged with a turn to the laptop.

"See for yourself."

I leaned in as Raptor reached for the laptop to place it on his lap. Walking to his side, I knelt down and began to read from the beginning. Pepper slowly walked behind me to look for herself. Hecan and Blitz kept seated as I read aloud his basic info and description.

"Raptor Voltz. Age thirty eight...!?"

"Thirty eight!?" Pepper questioned immediately as I went back to reading.

"Five foot eleven. One eighty in weight. Male hedgehog. Gray and green streaks of quills."

Pepper was utterly lost looking at Raptor now. She thought he was much younger. Which I can understand if I was in her position. But slowly refocusing, she looked back to me to say.

"Suppose they haven't updated that yet." Nodding my head I looked down to the next paragraph.

"List of aliases. Raptor, Raptor Voltz, Major, Commander, Commander Voltz, Grey Death."

"Dumb fuck." Added Pepper as sent my arm back to her stomach hitting her square in the belly button. She instantly chuckled to herself as I read on.

"Raptor Voltz has one of the most extensive combat records and world class training practices among top tier elite special duty soldiers on today's market. These include. At age eighteen he joined the middle east rebellion military and basic boot camp. Trained in Pakistan for six months and displayed marksmanship in both rifle and sniper rifle training. Also had the highest physical records for hedgehogs at the time in the army. Was promoted out of boot camp to a field team leader and made his bones working under direct command for ex rebellion leader General Hannon Prescott later that same year. Took part in multiple early contact combat interactions with G.U.N and displayed a strong power of confidence and leadership which very soon after earned him another promotion before the first war with G.U.N forces and from there made his way up to the rank of Major which he held for the rest of his career. Almost all rebellion veterans know him as the Major. Or as he now is; the commander to the rebellion after the passing of Commander Shadow Robotnik. Before this however he worked right alongside the man and trained and led his special forces and security detail personally. His most feared unit still serves today with many of the same men; their call sign is Zulu two seven. Better known as the first and last responders for when combat is paramount. Raptor also has also run into many walls during his time in the rebellion. Many of which were the losses of his family and fellow friends. Target is extremely hostile."

I slowly looked to my side to Raptor who was still reading ahead of me. Pepper was just following along as Hecan continued to watch us.

"Raptor Voltz is a trained killer and is highly dangerous in single combat. Rules of engagement remain the same however if you apply for this contact. Your actions are your own and will remain if you are ether captured or killed during your mission. This also includes any military or territorial connections you may have outside the middle east. The site is not responsible for any conflict that may result after your said capture or death. Proceed with caution."

It was clear they were taking Raptor seriously. But the next part explained why.

"Contact is under a closed protection contract that any contractors must sign and obey before pursuit. This includes interviews and background checks of the individual and approval from a tier three figure from your residing country for clearance."

"Closed protection contract? That shit is serious if it's not open for public bidding." Stated Pepper as I nodded to myself.

"Wanted for war crimes against G.U.N and his actions killing dignitary Rolland Hoss during the first war for the middle east. Also wanted for his political importance in the middle east as acting commander to the rebellion military."

Then came the prices they were offering.

"Thirty...thirty million dead?! Fifty!? Fifty Million alive!? If target is killed the contractor or contractors must provide proof of kill. Ether the body or any other identifiable possessions found on the body. Examples are dog tags, fingers, or the head itself. Payment will be collected after confirmation has been confirmed."

I was in shock at the price points. Looking back to Raptor for his reaction towards it. I got nothing but a silent stare as we both looked over to Hecan. Slightly smiling he stated.

"It's a closed protection contract. Same as mine. Which in this day and age means he's safe. No country will be caught dead taking on that bid just because of the fear of capture or exposure of their involvement to another government. Only people I can see getting their hands on permission are ether solo contractors or other terrorists who are active on the site. Such as Fort Drake. One of the companies still looking for Pepper."

Looking back to my sister she asked.

"They're terrorists?"

Nodding Hecan replied.

"Worst of the worst I'm afraid. They also have some of the most advanced combat tech on the markets. Stuff even my army has yet to get a hold of. They've claimed lots of traction with their activities and have even managed to combat Ying PMC who is the largest PMC in the world. Like I said though, they are the worst. Trained and heartless killers. The site has contracts on every member's head I'm sure, but knowing Drake all the men in their pay tribute to stay on a closed protection contract much like Raptor's. So they have freedom to do and act as they please. They hold no country as their own so that helps a lot in getting permission."

"That fucking number is insane Hecan. If that was an open contract...?" Nodding Hecan replied.

"That's why killing Ying's men was a huge risk. I understand it was the only way to get her back Raptor but if Ying finds out what really happened your contract will more then likely open up."

"They don't have proof and I have a plan in motion when they start to poke around. I promise." Stated Raptor as I continued to listen to Hecan as he replied back.

"Raptor if you get exposed you'll have everyone after you the second that contract gets made public. Hell there is a chance it will open up when the site learns you are no longer in command in the middle east. You have no connections to the rebellion now that you walked off and that alone might be enough."

Raptor went silent as he looked back to the computer once more. With things going silent, Pepper said with a lost voice.

"Fifty fucking million for an old fart like him? If that contract opens up we might have to take that Zeta."

Looking back to her I replied.

"Your not helping nor being funny Pep."

Giving me a crazy look she urged.

"Calm the fuck down. I didn't mean it. God your an idiot."

Growling at her I soon heard from Hecan.

"That's why I'm concerned for him. The site hasn't updated but tomorrow it will. Right now being in the states is a smart move. Not even Fort Drake will attack seeing as they are based here in the country."

"You haven't done something about them?" I questioned as he quickly replied.

"Like I said Zeta the people who go after contracts are important to the people who post them. I don't touch them because they have done a lot for my government. Even if they don't know it and are only after the money."

"So you just let them operate in peace then. Just because they clean up your messes?" Questioned my sister as Hecan calmly replied.

"In short yes."

Pepper quickly gave him a nasty look as I looked back to Raptor.

"If they needed to be eliminated I would have done it already. I assure you. They only operate on that site and have no interests in the actual terror groups roaming around my country. If they did something to hurt the people I work to protect, then I again would have handled them long ago."

"So what do I do?" Wondered Raptor from out of his silence as Hecan replied.

"You keep to your guns and try not to cause any more issues for yourself. At least till you can get back in office. The contract would close again if you retake the seat. That's all you can do Raptor. How long till you go back?" He then asked as Raptor looked up to reply.

"A few weeks. Things need to still happen before I can go back with confidence. That's why I'm here now."

Nodding Hecan then said.

"Well so long as your here you'll be okay. But I need to send you somewhere away from public eyes. You understand what I mean?"

Raptor quickly replied.

"I understand."

"And what about Pepper actually? Is there another plan in motion for her? She's still wanted correct?"

I nodded as Raptor replied.

"I have some ideas but I need time."

Adjusting in his chair Hecan then said.

"Well for right now you have two choices on what to do next."

"Which are?" I then asked as Hecan replied.

"I have two vacation homes I use when I need time away from all this. Both of which are secure and can support you in this effort to hide out. One of which is an old plantation house in Virginia I go to during the summer for it's beautiful views and amazing open ranges. Or the other being my own camping lodge in the snowy mountains of Alaska. Both of which are guarded year round and are two great locations away from the public. Safety is guaranteed." He stated as I looked back to Raptor who asked.

"Does it matter?"

Chuckling Hecan replied.

"Mostly on if you prefer to be hot or cold during your stay." Hecan returned me a smile as I he then said with a much more serious tone.

"But Raptor? Remember what I said to you. No bullshit. I'm a reasonable man as you know, but I will not tolerate any violence on my land. No matter who the person may be causing it."

"Hecan was dead serious." Nodding his head Raptor replied.

"You have my word we'll be on our best behavior sir. At this point in time the only thing I want is to rest for a bit before the bullshit comes flying."

With his smile returning Hecan said with a more jolly tone.

"Good. Good. So then? Where you going?" Looking to his eyes I heard Pepper state from behind.

"I'm done with the heat and the sand. We're going to Alaska and that's settled dumb fuck."

"Pepper!" I shouted at her as her eyes flicked right back over to me. In confusion she replied.

"Don't Pepper me! It's a clear as day choice and I'd bet my ass that even a dumb fuck like him wants to see snow for once in his life! Am I wrong dumb fuck!?"

Keeping my eyes on her I ordered.

"Stop calling him that!" Then Raptor replied.

"Yeah she's right. I would enjoy a new place with new weather."

"Raptor don't take her shit." I begged him as he looked back to me to reply.

"She's right though."

Just staring into his eyes I listened as Pepper said.

"Told you so."

Hecan on the other hand then stated.

"Well you are all leaving the second this meeting is over. Am I clear?" He asked as Pepper replied back.

"Thank god. As much as I love sitting here in this circle jerk I'd be happy to get somewhere safe for once."

With the mood shifting Hecan stated.

"Raptor there are still things we need to talk about with your little plan for the middle east. Number one on the subject we left on minutes ago."

"What's there to concern yourself with? May I ask?"

Nodding the fox replied.

"I'm concerned for you. Last thing I need before this war is out is for there to be another warlord in charge of the middle east."

"What are you suggesting?" Raptor then asked in confusion as Hecan took his time to reply.

"Your going down the path of a dictator. I should know. I've been in that lane before. I don't want nor need you to go off the course we agreed on. I need you to have my back for this and I'd rather have Commander Raptor Voltz then Dictator Raptor Voltz. Am I clear?"

Slowly Raptor replied.

"I will not become that man. This path? I might be heading in the direction, but when the course is charted you'll see it was only a possible outcome. One of many and it's one I intend to stray away from. There are more important things for me to worry about. Looking out for me is and will never be who I am. You'll see. But yeah your clear."

With that Hecan leaned back in his seat to just stare at him. Looking up to my sister I stood back up and asked.

"What now sir?"

After a few seconds Hecan pulled his gaze off of Raptor to reply.

"You're heading back to the airport and getting back on that plane you flew in on. However from this point on you are not in charge of the flight. A friend of mine is going to fly you there. Along with him and the soldiers who are already there guarding the resort I expect you each to understand they are there to protect and watch you. Don't give them shit and just keep your heads down."

Raptor quickly shut his eyes as Hecan looked to me and my sister.

"You take this Zeta." Going through his suit coat Hecan pulled out a small phone. I knew what it was cause I used plenty in my life.

"It's a burner phone. One hundred percent secure lines and no chance of tracing or eavesdroppers. I want a call every night from one of you. I want updates on what is going on and I would like to be the first to know when you plan on leaving. I'll give you the time Raptor but don't take advantage. This is a test and one you need to pass. We may be friends but don't fuck with my power here. You do this and I can promise next time I'll be more trusting. You have my word about that."

"Yes sir." Replied Raptor as my sister asked.

"What should we do old man?" Widening my eyes at the question I turned to look at her to see she was serious in asking that. Hecan on the other hand replied.

"You follow his lead. You owe him that much for getting you out of that city alive Pepper. And no matter what you think ask yourself how long you would be running if he hadn't saved your sister before this. It's because of him your safe and it's because of me you can have the time to recover what you lost. Be that your body or your relationship with Zeta. The two of you are a pair of girls I never had the pleasure of watching work together. Smart as whips and deadly as bullets. Together you can make great things happen and hopefully restart when it is all said and done. But I believe for that to happen you need to listen to him. If there is one thing I can admit to its that Raptor here can make miracles happen. Play the cards your dealt right and you will find yourself a free woman. Both of you."

I just smiled as Pepper looked back to Raptor who was starting to stand up. Her eyes just watched over him as I questioned her emotions towards that answer. Pepper wasn't going to budge if she felt she actually hated this guy, but god willing she can at least see the logic behind what he just said. Even if I didn't love the guy I would still be here now. Just because I know I can't keep running. I need help and thanks to him I have a chance to do just what he said. Restart my life.

"He's right Pep. We need to do this together. I know you don't feel the same but I know your smarter then me. You see the reason in the situation and that alone will make you stay."

Pepper looked right back to my eyes as I begged.

"Just trust me. You don't have to trust him but trust me. Your sister for fucks sake. Please. Just this once."

Pepper was out of her match with this one argument. Letting out a sigh she soon broke her eye contact to reply.

"Fine."

"Thank you." I said to her with utter happiness. Just having her come along willing was enough to make me excited for once in my life. But I knew before any excitement there was still things to be done. With Hecan smiling as well he soon ordered.

"Get going. My man is already at the airfield waiting. Go with god's grace Raptor. And please...take some time for yourself while your there."

"I'll try." He replied as he slowly tap my arm to order quietly.

"Let's go."

"Okay." I replied with a smile as it was clear Raptor was thinking about all this information he was given just now. Fifty million dollars. I thought people would sell me out for two. God knows who he can trust if that contract ever gets lifted to the public. No where would be safe. I thought to myself as Raptor was first to leave with Blitz at his side. Looking back to Hecan I said.

"Thank you."

"Just do me a favor Zeta. This goes for you too Pepper. Watch over him. There is too much on the line for him to get killed or head down the wrong path this deep in. I know he's smart but even a genius needs help."

Nodding my head I replied.

"I will. She will too. Right?"

Pepper who was just trying to relax slowly replied.

"Yeah...right."

Turning to head for the door, I flicked my head back around when Hecan shouted.

"Wait!"

With Pepper stopping as well Hecan had our attention and got up to approach us on foot. Once near us he whispered.

"I don't know if Zeak sold you for certain. But the way things are going you'll need closure once things are cleaned up between Raptor and I. Which means if no other option presents itself I'll look into tracking him down. I have some pull and I know if I look to the right people I can somehow find him. Wherever he is hiding. But listen you two. This is a business of deals and I intend to make one. Keep Raptor alive and on the right course and I'll help you end this feud before it gets ether of you hurt anymore then it already has. Deal?"

My sister was wide eyed as Hecan offered me his hand for the deal. Gently putting my hand on top of his I replied.

"We'll do all we can to watch out for him. But there are some things Hecan we can't keep controlled. His mental health being one."

With his eyes going faint Hecan lowered his gaze as I clutched his fingers. After a few seconds I pulled back and turned for the exit. My sister remained a few feet back to say to the old man with a careful tone.

"You owe us this. Remember that while you continue to play god."

Just smiling Hecan asked as she turned to leave.

"Your a special person Pepper. God I hope you know that."

Giving him the finger as she left the office Pepper shouted as she shut the door.

"Fuck you!"

With the door shutting Pepper got back to my side to question.

"Are you sure about this Zeta? What has he done for us that we couldn't have done ourselves? This Voltz guy is a fucking...?!"

Stopping in my tracks I slammed my palm into her chest. Pepper was sent back into a nearby wall as I questioned.

"He's what Pepper!? A fucking dumb fuck!?"

My sister had wide eyes at my sudden outburst. I was getting tired of her shit up till this point towards him. Getting in her face I shouted.

"He's the only fucking person who has ever tried to help me! He was there and he got me this fucking opportunity to see you again you dumb bitch! Can't you see that!?"

Pepper was actually stunned on what to say or do. She just muttered.

"Zeta I...?" Grabbing her by the cloak I asked.

"How many people did you trust with your life while you were off looking for me!? Huh!? How many!? And how many of them turned you in and sold you out the second they found out what you were worth!? How fucking many Pep!?"

With her face pale she replied with a very quiet voice.

"Zeta that has nothing to do...!?"

"Smack!"

Sending my hand across her face I screamed.

"It has everything to do with it!"

Pepper was in utter shock right now. I haven't hit her like that since we were babies fighting in the crib at home. With her hand on the spot where I hit her Pepper listened and fell silent as I stated with force.

"All of them turned. All of them betrayed us and because of that we had to fear the idea of help. Raptor came to me and before I knew it I was already drawn to his spell. The man is a leader and he won my trust when he actually took the time to get to know me. When he took the time to figure out what he could do to help. I helped him get revenge and he promised me he would help me find you and end my contract. I told him I would never be able to pay something like that back if it happened. And guess what Pepper it happened. Now I'm here and even though his world is in shambles he's still focused solely on keeping his promise. He's risking more then ether of us and it pisses me off you've been treating him like garbage since the second you heard his voice. So get this straight and understand this isn't about trust anymore. It's about us. And Raptor can help us. We need his help and you need to see it that way too if we are ever to truly understand each other. Keep being a fucking bitch. I know how hard it is to stop, but don't do it in front of me. Am I clear?"

Pepper was at this point just staring at me with an utter loss for words. Taking a step back from her I replied to my own question.

"Good. Cause you just said you would trust me. Now let's go. We have a lot left to do before tonight is up."

Pepper took her care to not take her eyes off me as I turned around to start walking. After some time she came along as we soon found ourselves back in the trucks. Raptor had his head down in his lap as I got in to ask.

"What's wrong?"

As Pepper got in he replied while looking up at me.

"Nothing." Raptor was hiding something now. Something I'm sure he wouldn't talk about with my sister around. Hopefully once on the plane I can get an idea of what that might be.

mT Shadow.