Chapter twelve- Lockdown

Once she located the coordinates, it was easy work to pilot the glider to the hidden laboratory. Coco had to hand it to Cortex. He was certainly getting smarter in his choice of hideouts. As they followed the signal, Kieran had expressed his confusion that they might be on the wrong track. At that point, Coco agreed with him. They had seemed to be very close to the location, but there was no sign of a man-made construction anywhere over the lush cliffs. Then Coco saw it. It was buried in the cliff side, completely undetectable from the ocean until one was directly beside it. It was a clever camouflage, and one Coco had not been expecting to see. Cortex had never been one to take advantage of the natural environment, but she supposed he was willing to try anything in effort to protect it from being destroyed.

After locating the lab, Coco found an entryway where she carefully landed the glider. The security systems were not stellar, and so she was confident her entrance did not trip any alarms. As soon as the vehicle touched down, they were both in motion. Coco didn't have the first idea where Cortex would keep a group of children, but she knew that once she connected to his system she'd be able to gain information on their whereabouts.

Coco and Kieran abandoned the glider and started through the first corridor they came across. They ran in silence, and Coco kept her eye open for a port where she could possibly hack into the information system. At about the fourth or so turn, she came across one. She stopped abruptly, and Kieran had to ease himself to a halt before he joined her. She took her miniaturized computer out of her pocket and pulled a retractable wire out of the top. She opened the console, and stuffed the wire into the port. However, before she could even begin the process of breaking through the firewall, a blast of electricity surged through the wire and into the computer. With a yelp of fright, Coco tossed the handheld computer and watched it short out and render itself completely useless. She stared at the broken computer for a few moments, and then groaned angrily. Kieran touched her arm.

"Are you alright?"

"It's fried. Ugh, I'm such an idiot. I should've known Cortex would've tried something different to protect his precious data bank."

Her anger was paramount, but she couldn't let it get the better of her. She shrugged off the small failure, and started running again. Kieran followed directly behind, not even bothering to ask her where she planned to go. She was glad he didn't, because she hadn't a clue.

She was considering striding into Cortex's front door and demanding where he was keeping his hostages, when she suddenly noticed movement in front of them. Kieran saw it too. He gripped her arm, and they both slowed to a stop. She could hear his lowered voice at her ear.

"I think it's a scientist. We should go another way."

Coco took a time to think this through. They could very easily double back and search for an alternative route, but that plan was not consistent with quickly locating the children. So, she made a decision, whether it was foolish or not remained to be seen. It was certainly reckless, bordering on her brother's insanity. Without regarding Kieran, she took off at a dead sprint toward the scientist. She didn't have time for him to get over his shock. Without slowing her pace in the slightest, she pounced on the white-coated beanpole and knocked him flat to the ground. She pressed her hands on his shoulders and glared into his face.

"Where are you keeping the children?"

She forced as much menace into her voice as she could muster, but the scientist didn't seem intimidated. Actually, he didn't demonstrate any emotion whatsoever. He should have been surprised or angry, but he was not. His face was blank. Coco realized it at once. The scientist was nothing but a drone. He was certainly human, or possessed human qualities at any rate. However, his brain was controlled by a computer, probably a mechanized implant. Coco was processing this information just as Kieran skidded to a stop next to her. He was obviously disconcerted.

"Are you crazy?"

"A predetermined volume of insanity seems to run in my family, but that's not important. This scientist is a cyborg. He won't give us answers through negotiation, but I think I know of another way to locate our missing kids."

By this time the drone had recovered from the surprise of being knocked down, and was lifting his hands to attack. Kieran stepped forward, intending to assist her, but she had no need of it. Quick as a wink she had found the switch aside the drone's head and flicked it. The drone immediately collapsed in a paralyzed listlessness. Kieran seemed utterly baffled as she searched the drone's head and located a control panel at the base of his skull. She quickly produced a signal interpreter from her pocket, another handy invention of hers, and clipped the magnetic tip to the drone's "brain". It was difficult to locate useful information at first, but Coco soon learned how to process the data more quickly. From the electronic memory stores, Coco discovered that the Anthrian 'test subjects' were being kept in a holding cell in the east quadrant. Coco saved the necessary information within her computer, and when she believed she had everything she needed she disconnected her link to the drone and shoved her device into her pocket. She jumped to her feet.

"Alright, we should probably go. After he reboots he'll probably send out a security warning. Hopefully we'll be on our way out when that happens."

Coco was well aware how frazzled Kieran was, and she was quite certain it was due to her wild behavior and utter lack of discretion. Coco did feel guilty about it, but she was on a roll. She didn't have time to slow down. Kieran would just have to keep up with her frenzied pace. When she started off at a jog once more, Kieran didn't even bother asking her what she'd discovered. He just followed along obediently, trusting her to know exactly where to go. Coco was excited to be given the opportunity to prove herself in the face of adversity. In the past, Crash was always there to take over the challenge if things got too difficult for her. Now, she was on her own. Kieran was a great help, of course, but he was not in charge. That role fell to Coco, and she was fully confident she was up to the task. As they ran, Coco elucidated her plan to her comrade. Kieran understood at once, and although Coco knew they would need to tread carefully, she was quite sure that the both of them would succeed quite swiftly in their task. Coco led the way as they tore off down the darkened corridors, ensuring that they remained on the right track.

Cortex leaned back in his chair, feeling very well rested. It was remarkable how soundly he could sleep when he was well assured that those deplorable mutations would soon be wiped from the face of the planet. He was in such good spirits he almost felt like humming a lively tune. His pleasant reverie was disrupted as N. Gin knocked carefully upon the open door of the laboratory.

"Dr. Cortex?"

Cortex uttered an irritated sigh.

"What is it, N. Gin?"

"I'm afraid, Doctor, that two issues of the most unfortunate nature have occurred."

Cortex had been hoping to let nothing spoil his good mood, however he was finding this to become increasingly difficult the more N. Gin babbled. He frowned darkly.

"What issues?"

"Well, firstly, there was a disruption in the containment chamber and the young animals have managed to escape their captivity."

Cortex clenched his fists angrily. His breath came out in haggard exhales, but he strove to keep his composure. N. Gin seemed to see this strengthening anger, and so he quickly added a smidgen of good news.

"However, we have succeeded in capturing one of the youngsters, Doctor."

"That does not excuse the ineptitude of this failure. However, I suppose one mutant child is better than none. We haven't the time to chase these little creatures all over the lab. Get this sorted out quickly, N. Gin."

"Yes Doctor."

Cortex reminded himself that the news was not overly taxing. They were simply children, and they would be recovered soon. There was no question about that. What Cortex wanted to know was what the second issue was. He glared at N. Gin, who took a moment to receive the hint. He wrung his hands.

"And, it appears we have intruders within the laboratory."

Cortex felt his rage spike at once.

"What intruders?"

"A female bandicoot and a male bilby have been spotted in the corridors, Doctor."

Cortex slid his chair to the monitor console and punched in a code. After searching a few security feeds, he spotted them. The little female was undoubtedly Coco Bandicoot, Crash's troublesome sister. The bilby was unknown to him, probably some unwitting accomplice she dragged in to assist her. However, when he saw that Crash Bandicoot was not with her he felt remarkably better. That feeling did not last long. He stroked his chin as he considered.

"N. Gin, are these the only intruders the computers have picked up?"

"Yes, Doctor."

It was curious that Crash was absent from this ill-fated rescue mission. On that same note, Crunch Bandicoot was also nowhere to be found. There could only be one reason for this.

"Have you been in contact with Tina since her departure from Australia?" Cortex inquired anxiously.

"No, Doctor. We were unable to make contact. The last report received she ensured she was in possession of the toxin."

"She made no mention of anyone attempting to steal it?"

"None, Doctor."

There could be no doubt. Whether or not he had failed in his attempt, Crash Bandicoot knew about the toxin. There was no other alternative. Cortex pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration. And he had woken up feeling so good. It was a shame. However, Cortex decided there was no need to fret over the fact that his plan was known. Those meddlesome bandicoots would not stop him. He decided he would amuse himself before Tina's arrival. He turned to N. Gin.

"Is the bandicoot heading for the containment compartment?"

"Yes, Doctor."

Then the little brainiac didn't realize it was empty. He could have fun with this. He nodded to N. Gin.

"Very well. Continue searching for the loose animals, and I will take care of the would-be rescuers."

"Very good, Doctor."

N. Gin scuttled off, leaving Cortex to his thoughts. He drummed his fingers upon his armrest, considering. A plan came to his mind at once. He tapped a button, and after a brief moment a voice answered him on the other line.

"What's up?"

"You and your associates are required."

"You got it, Doc."

Within minutes the laboratory door slid open and six rodent-like creatures strode in with easy arrogance. At the head of the throng was a rat with ashy brown hair and a toothpick sticking out of one side of his mouth. He dusted the sleeve of his heliotrope pinstripe suit and then crossed his arms.

"Here we are, Doc. What's the word?"

After Pinstripe Potoroo had relinquished his activities as a hitman, his trusted underling Raze was now the new leader of the gunmen. Cortex was glad for this, because, unless he was very much mistaken, Raze had a grudge against the bandicoots. The Potoroo gang had been on retainer ever since the affair with the planet decimation device. Hopefully, they could be useful again. Cortex stood up from his chair, and indicated one of the monitors.

"Come here a moment, would you Raze?"

Raze shoved a hand in his pocket and swaggered over to where Cortex stood. He peered over his shoulder. Cortex gestured to the small bandicoot girl rushing about on the screen.

"Do you recognize this girl?"

Raze snarled through a sneer.

"Sure I do. Little twit caused me to lose some of my ear. I'd know her anywhere."

Cortex grinned wickedly.

"Excellent. I have a plan I wish to put to you. Listen very closely."

After about ten minutes, Coco and Kieran reached the prison where the children were being held. It was a large and hideous containment unit that looked almost like an oxygen tank of some sort. It seemed ridiculous that Cortex would believe that such tight security was needed to keep children in captivity. Coco located the console, and referred to the code she had downloaded from the drone's memory bank. Before she could begin typing, she felt Kieran's hand on her arm.

"Once we get them out, should we stay together or separate?"

Coco considered this.

"Let's try and stay together for as long as we can. If we need to break up, we both know where to meet. I'll lead, and you cover from behind. Sound good?"

Kieran nodded.

"Got it."

Coco took a deep breath. She quickly typed out the access code, and within moments the door slid open. At first, Coco could see nothing. The inside of the prison was cast in darkness. Hesitantly, she stepped inside.

"Jag? Camlin? Is anyone in here?"

She strode in a little farther. It was possible that the children were inside, but were hiding from potential attackers. Coco tried to sound as unthreatening as possible.

"It's Coco and Kieran. We're here to take you home."

From behind her, Coco heard Kieran speak out.

"Coco…I don't think anyone's here."

Coco knew this was the place that the children were being held. The drone's memory bank was accurate, it had to be. There was no reason why Cortex would tamper with the individual data files of his lab assistants. As Coco was debating this, she heard another voice that definitely was not Kieran.

"Oh, there's someone here, alright." The deep, hissing voice said. "Just not who you hoped to see."

The lights suddenly blinked on, and Coco spun around. Standing in the doorway surrounded by goons, was a very familiar rat. He grinned heartily as twirled his gun about in his hand.

"Hey sweetheart, remember me?"

Coco knew she'd seen that rat before, but she couldn't remember where. Before she had a chance to figure it out, he tilted his head and revealed a gruesome scar across his ear. She knew his identity at once.

"Raze." She growled.

"Good guess. Last time we met, we didn't part on good terms. A shame really." Raze turned to Kieran. "And this must be your boy toy. Pleasure to see you again."

Kieran grimaced, but didn't reply. Coco stepped beside Kieran and glared angrily at Raze.

"Where are the children, Raze? What have you done with them?"

"Me?" Raze feigned concern. "I didn't do anything. Kidnapping isn't my racket. I'm more of a 'shoot-em-up' kind of guy. I get called in when the ol' doc needs a little muscle. Not that it's going to take five of us to bring you runts down."

Coco glowered at him, not bothering to reply. Her anger was increasing steadily, but it was due primarily to the fact that she could not come up with a quick way to escape. Their only way out was through the door blocked by Raze and his cronies. Before she had a chance to retort to his statement, Raze continued.

"Cortex wanted us to keep you around to test out his new toy, but I think we only need one."

Raze nodded to one of his goons, and to Coco's horror the rat lifted a pistol and aimed it directly at Kieran. Coco's heart jumped, and although Kieran sported a look of surprise, it was replaced by anger within seconds. Coco reacted even before she had a chance to think.

"Raze, don't." Her voice was hard, but she could hear the fear in it. No doubt Raze could hear it too.

He gazed at her, and tapped his chin thoughtfully. Then he offered a shrug.

"Tell you what, I'm willing to cut you a break if you do something for me."

Coco clenched her fists, and took a careful breath.

"What?"

Raze grinned wickedly.

"Give me a kiss." He said with a sickening smirk. "If you give me a little kiss, I won't shoot your boyfriend."

Coco wanted nothing more than to grab something large and heavy and smash it over the detestable creature's head. However, she couldn't afford to take any chances. Coco groaned, and placed her hands on her hips.

"Alright."

She was aware that Kieran was gawking at her, probably aghast.

"Coco…"

"Quiet." She snapped without looking at him.

Raze sauntered over, leaving his goons in the doorway as he brushed a hand across her shoulder. She felt her skin crawl, but she didn't make a move. He still had a loaded gun in his hands. He leaned down toward her, grinning fiendishly.

"Alright baby, lay it on me."

Coco watched his mouth descend to hers, and then she acted.

"Certainly."

Coco backhanded Raze across the face, and then gripped his gun and wrenched it out of his hands. He was too astonished to be any real threat initially, but he recovered fast. He gripped her wrist, his face a mask of rage, and she quickly whirled and caused him to stumble and strike the far wall. By this time, the goons had begun their advance. They couldn't shoot in such close quarters with their boss in the centre of the action, so they abandoned their guns and fought without weapons. Kieran charged toward the group, taking on two before they could reach Raze and Coco. Kieran had just delivered a hard strike against the side of the head of one of the larger rats before Coco was distracted. Raze had cleared his head and was now after her again. He was limber, but he moved with spastic unorthodox movements. He was quite simple for a seasoned martial artist like Coco to deflect.

After she sent him sprawling to the ground for the third time, she lifted her head to see what else was going on. The containment unit was small, forcing Kieran's attackers to come at him in twos or else they'd be beating on their own men. Kieran had obviously suffered a strike to the face due to a nasty cut on his cheek, but otherwise he was holding up well. During her lapse in concentration, she felt a hand grip her ankle. Before she could react, her foot was pulled out from under her and she collapsed heavily to the ground. Within an instant, Raze had climbed on top of her and trapped her arms above her head. He was snorting with anger.

"You cocky little twerp. That's what I get for trying to be a nice guy."

"That was your 'nice'?" Coco scoffed as she struggled under his weight. "Interesting. Well, allow me to return the favor."

With all her might, Coco slammed her foot between Raze's legs. The expression of sheer agony on Raze's face was enough to brighten Coco's day. It was simple work to roll him off of her, and she was back on her feet in an instant. Kieran was having difficulty managing the great number of goons, so Coco rushed in to give him a hand. After a few moments, Coco was confident they were succeeding in beating them back. They only needed to clear a path to the doorway, and then they could manage a quick getaway. However, while Coco was engaged she did not notice Raze stagger by the melee and head out of the containment unit. When he was out, he gave out a shrill whistle.

"Forget it. Leave em' for Cortex."

Coco gritted her teeth. Did he think they were just going to stand by and let them lock them in? Not likely. As Raze's men broke off the fight, Coco made a lunge for the door. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Raze lift his arm. The seconds seemed to stretch as she realized what Raze intended. Her eyes left the gun and focused on her comrade.

"Kieran!" She cried out.

The warning was useless. There was no way for Kieran to evade Raze's attack. The pistol discharged, ringing through the chamber and causing Coco's heart to jump into her throat. Kieran fell to the ground with the force of the blow. Blood blossomed from a wound in his thigh, and as soon as he gained his balance he gripped it to keep the blood contained. Coco had only at this time allowed herself to start breathing again. She dashed to Kieran's side, her pulse pounding. Subconsciously, she heard the sound of a door hissing closed. She didn't give this knowledge a second thought. The blood was already beginning to seep through Kieran's hands. Coco yanked off her headband and commenced in the attempt to pull the edges apart.

"Press it, Kieran." She ordered through her clenched teeth as she tore.

"I'm trying." Kieran's voice was impressively steady for someone trying desperately to keep his blood in his body.

Coco finally broke the fabric headband, and at once she placed it above the wound and began wrapping it around his leg. Coco could tell that once she completed the tourniquet, the blood flow would lessen. However, it would not stop completely for some time. After she finished tying, she gripped Kieran under the arms.

"Let's get you against the wall in case you pass out."

Coco took a deep breath and yanked. Her adrenaline offered her some extra strength, but it wasn't enough to easily drag Kieran to the wall. Kieran was too focused on breathing evenly and holding his wound to be of any assistance. As soon as she got him to the wall, he leaned back and heaved a shaky breath. Coco laid a hand on his shoulder.

"The bleeding should stop soon, Kieran. Just take some deep breaths."

He followed her advice until he was calm enough to speak clearly.

"I'm sorry you had to tear your headband."

It took Coco a minute to process his words, and when she did a wave of anger washed over her. Momentarily forgetting the fact he was injured she gave him a slap across the arm.

"What's the matter with you? Are you seriously 'apologizing' for my headband when you're sitting there bleeding all over the place? That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Say something like that again and I'll give you something to really be sorry about."

Coco felt better after her rant. Anger was the best way to conceal her fear, she'd discovered it some time ago. She noticed after she was finished that Kieran was looking at her.

"I'm sorry." He said.

"Stop apologizing!" She shouted.

"It's just that you looked very nice in that headband." Kieran said softly.

This brought Coco up short. She opened her mouth to retort, but nothing came out. Instead she heaved a small sigh, then sat beside Kieran and leaned her back against the wall. For some reason, she didn't feel like talking anymore. She didn't know how they were going to escape, but she couldn't dwell on that. She spent much of her time tearing strips of fabric, and then wrapping them around Kieran's weeping wound to provide the necessary compression. All the while she wondered if perhaps she could have used something other than her headband to tie Kieran's leg.