To start off the summer we have a new chapter for Project R. I promise more action and more drama for the summer and I hope all that enjoy. Thanks again to SniegZ and Angelbecca for all their hard work. I don't own Full Metal Panic or Metal Gear, or Joe he belongs to SniegZ. I own Michael. Hope that this wasn't too long of a wait for all!
Michael and Sousuke each had their own share of trouble and danger
Michael and Sousuke each had their own share of trouble and danger in their past. Each survived through countless skirmishes, fights and a whole host of other incidents. It was these previous experiences that have helped them survive to see the next day.
From fights in the jungles to urban warfare they had seen everything and stood by each other till the job was done.
However in front of them they faced a much different fight.
Standing in front of them at this very moment were their own respective commanding officers from Mithril and FOXHOUND.
Tessa sat in front of them with Commander Mardukas standing to her left. Colonel Campbell stood on her right with Snake leaning on the wall opposite of them.
Michael and Sousuke were at ease standing with their arms behind their backs. Standing next to Michael was Mei Ling who faced her own trouble for killing a man of her own free will.
"Major Michael Kanzuki, Sgt. Sousuke Sagara and Lt. Mei Ling Lau," Tessa said as she threw the report on the desk, "You three will face serious consequences for disobeying a direct order."
Commander Mardukas stiffened as he looked at Sousuke and Michael. He studied them closely and saw that they were indeed nervous but in full control of themselves. These were the faces of true professionals despite their young age. He watched them fight together with Spec. Black and it showed how well they worked as a team.
They worked well in the field but the two were as rash and reckless as any other teenager their age.
"Major Kanzuki and Sgt. Sagara, you two disobeyed a direct order from myself and Captain Testarossa," Colonel Campbell took the floor, "You made contact with codename Angel when you were ordered to avoid contact at all cost."
Snake rolled his eyes. He wondered if they could have really escaped from that woman. She seemed hell bent on finding those two and giving them a piece of her mind... and fist.
Sousuke and Michael stiffened and said nothing.
"Lt. Mei Ling," Campbell noticed her tense when he called her name, "You used unnecessary lethal force. How do you explain this behavior?" Campbell inquired.
Mei Ling took a deep breath, "I have no excuse for my behavior Colonel but, I had my reasons." She wished she did not have to say that but it was the only way to explain what she did.
"Despite the fact that he did cross the line," Snake straightened his back and looked at her, "There was no reason for you to kill him."
Mei Ling said nothing as she continued to hold her tongue.
"Lt., you are confined to your quarters until Zeus starts. This will go on record and halt any possible promotions for the next year. We will discuss more of this later." Campbell stated, "Dismissed, Lieutenant."
Mei Ling brought her legs together and saluted the staff.
Tessa rose and like everyone else saluted as well.
Mei Ling brought her arm down and looked at Michael. His was stone faced and that worried her. In a case like this, she was not sure what was going to happen. She walked out of the room and closed the door.
Silence filled the room as Tessa took her seat.
Sousuke was cool at this point as he kept at ease. They both had an idea as to what was going to happen.
"You two," Tessa pointed at them, "disobeyed a direct order and communication was cut for you Sgt. Sagara because of Ms Chidori." She turned to Michael, "And your CODEC was disabled. Major Kanzuki would you explain this?"
Michael paused and stated, "I met Ocelot with a gun at my head." He paused for everyone to take in the shock, "He had a device which jammed the CODEC completely. He stated that Ms. Chidori worked on it and completed it."
Snake got the floor first, "It appears that he wanted us to know our place. Amalgam is still advancing their technology. We should change the CODEC again."
Campbell took this under consideration, "We will work on it before the operation starts. We have to get something that can't be traced."
"Agreed, the Lt. will work on it while she is confined," Tessa answered and turned back to Michael, "Did Ocelot say anything else?"
Michael nodded reluctantly to Tessa, "Yes ma'am, he said that they had four other whispered working on Project R."
Tessa rose from her chair, "What?! Are you sure!?"
Michael only answered with, "Yes ma'am."
Tessa slumped back in her chair as she digested this new information. They must have been taken after the attack. It would provide the perfect opportunity to truly keep things in their favor until this Project R was completed.
Mardukas shook off the shock, "Are you sure he was telling the truth? He could be lying to-"
Michael cut him off without looking at him, "No sir. Ocelot is one to never really tell a lie of any sorts. He speaks riddles but tells the truth through them."
Mardukas looked at him, "And you know this because of personal experience?"
Michael held his tongue at that remark.
"Yes he would," Tessa answered, "Ocelot may be a villain but if anyone knows him and his ways it is Michael. He would want us to know this information but why?" Tessa looked at Michael, "Do you have any ideas as to why?"
Michael shook his head, "No ma'am. Despite the 'past' relationship I had with him no one could really understand him. Ocelot belongs in a world different from ours and he knows it."
Snake shook his head, "Still this is bad, Otacon is still going through the data and we could only get eighty-five percent of the databases and nothing about this has come up."
Campbell answered with, "Then it is in Gold's personal data base or even Silver's."
He tensed and said, "Then we can expect the worst at this point. We have to assume that this weapon is complete."
"Or they are modifying it." Snake commented, "Leonard gave us a clue to this weapon. It was considered the blackest of the black technology."
"Do you have any idea as to what it could be?" Tessa's body started to shake a little at the thought of this weapon. This could be a weapon that overshadowed the Behemoth and maybe even Belial.
Snake shook his head, "It could really be anything."
Mardukas cleared his throat getting everyone's attention back to the matter at hand, "Things like this must be discussed after we have finished looking through the data. Our concern at the moment is these two."
Sousuke and Michael had not moved a muscle at all.
Snake scoffed, "As much as it pains to agree with him," Snake shook his head as Mardukas glared at him, "We do have to deal with this."
Tessa took the floor, "What do you have to say for yourselves?" She said outright wanting to hear their explanations.
Michael answered with, "How do you want us to explain the fact that she tracked us down, hell bent on finding and beating us?"
Snake snorted a little laughter at that one while Tessa bit her lower lip to stop a giggle. She had to admit that it was pretty funny from where they were sitting right now.
Mardukas looked sharply at Michael, "Major, why did you order Dr. Emmerich to terminate transmissions?"
Sousuke answered, "Sir! Miss Chidori needed to talk to me about things not relevant to the mission. Those matters were private sir."
"Exactly Sgt.," Mardukas answered sharply, "Matters not relevant to the mission. You took time to comfort her!"
"Is that a problem Commander?" Sousuke answered.
The whole room turned to Sousuke. Even Michael was surprised to hear those words coming from Sousuke. He glanced over at Snake. Snake was watching him with a sharp eye.
Mardukas was appalled by this new attitude, "These new developments have brought new questions into your devotion to the upcoming battle."
Campbell nodded, "I agree with the Commander's assessment. Sgt and Major, you two have to understand that despite what you want to do, there is a mission to complete and a battle to be won. If your attitudes become a factor in Zeus than it could jeopardize everything we have worked for and those that we lost."
Sousuke and Michael were silent on that one. This was the same rhetorical jargon that they had heard many times over the last few months. However, no matter how much they hated to hear it, more was riding on the line than they cared to admit.
If Amalgam was not stopped than the world could enter into a new world war.
"Until we make our decision," Tessa turned to Michael, "Major you will not be apart of the planning of the attack. Sgt," She turned to Sousuke, "as much as I hate to say this but until further notice you will not be part of the SRT team in this battle."
"Cap-"
Tessa raised her hand stopping him, "No Sgt you need to listen," She rose from her chair looking at him sharply, "We need you to be focused on your duties and not on your personal feelings. Are we clear Sgt?"
Sousuke took a second and answered, "Yes ma'am!"
"Dismissed." Snake commented.
Both saluted and left the room.
Michael shot a glare at Tessa and closed the door.
The door closed and Snake broke the silence, "Your making a mistake on doing this."
Tessa pondered this for a moment, "I know Snake and we need him on the SRT assault to give the operation a better chance."
"However, we need him to keep his head clear on the matters. There is a chance that he could go rogue and go after Ms. Chidori instead of supporting his squad." Mardukas threw in.
Campbell sighed, "Those two are alike in many ways however there is one thing that I think everyone should hear."
Everyone turned to Campbell.
Campbell looked at Snake, "You saw it too didn't you."
Snake nodded, "Yea, he has the look of Big Boss in those eyes."
Mardukas scoffed, "With all due respect Snake, how can a mere teenager can have the look of the legend?"
Snake shook his head and looked at Mardukas, "You knew nothing about Big Boss. I do"
He looked sharply at Tessa, "Big Boss believed in something other than a mission, not like you do, Mardukas."
Mardukas looked at Snake challenging him, "And Big Boss was so great in Outer Heaven and Zanzibar land?"
Snake's anger started to show.
Tessa yelled, "ENOUGH!" She squeaked out in that voice of hers, "At this point we do not need to further fight over our differences. Not now and not until after Amalgam is shut down at least. Commander," She looked sharply at Richard, "comments like you delivered to the Major are things that we do not need right now. He is a good soldier and a lot of the members of FOXHOUND respect him. If you decide to challenge his professionalism than we can expect only more hostility from the other soldiers," She turned to Snake, "Snake we understand your experience but at the same time we need to stay focused on the bigger picture. The Sgt. needs to put his skills towards helping and guarding the other members of the SRT squad. They are tip of the spear in the assault and we need him to stay focused on that. Are we clear gentlemen?"
Both nodded, agreeing to put aside their differences for the moment.
"The decision to reinstate the Sgt and Major is up to the two of us," Campbell said hoping to break the tension, "Until we decide they are ready your opinions are noted."
Tessa nodded and only hoped that things would go as planned. She looked at the room and kept things to herself. Tensions were high at this point and it would only get higher with the impending attack.
The last thing anyone needed was for a major split to happen.
Sousuke walked with a speedy pace towards the hanger. Despite the logic behind his current suspension and how it could affect that assault he still could not make the anger go away.
He was one of Mithril's best pilots in the SRT teams and they all knew he would be vital in this attack.
However, the command staff did not see it as such. The only thing he could really do at this point was to wait.
"Hey, try and remember the person behind you."
Sousuke turned and waited for Michael to catch up.
Michael kept his pace with him, "That could have gone better."
Sousuke nodded, "Affirmative."
Michael studied his face, "Look it is not permanent and they never said that you were not in the attack at all Sousuke."
Sousuke stopped and turned to Michael, "I know but I should be with the SRT when it starts."
"Look," Michael crossed his arms, "it's not final so there's still a chance. Give them some time to think about it. It would be tactically stupid to not to put you in the front lines."
Sousuke turned away and headed toward the hanger, "The M9's should be arriving now."
FOXHOUND and Mithril were able to pull together and get at least four squads of AS suits for the battle. Most of them were M9's since they had the best chance of going against a Venom. Most of FOXHOUND's pilots were trained in using the M6 but got use to the modifications with the M9.
Before Michael brought Sousuke back the remaining pilots that survived were using VR testing to learn how to use the M9 to its fullest ability. After some practice they got use to it but, they were still not up to the standards of Mithril's SRT which had more experience in using the M9. Melissa and Bel trained some of the pilots while Sousuke recovered so some were more caught up than others.
More weapons and equipment arrived when the TDD-1 was out in the Atlantic during the Paris operation. Everything that was arriving now was supplies that had experienced some kind of delay.
In the hanger they saw the hatch above them open up and AS units were lowered down into the hangers with the assistance of a crane and pilots.
Pilots moved the units to the side to make room for other units. On another part of the sub weapons for the units along with additional firepower was being delivered by plane and boat.
They observed a FOXHOUND member guiding the unit in as a Mithril operator made sure that everything was running at peak performance for the unit.
The attack was less than a day away and they needed to move fast.
With the exposure of Mithril and FOXHOUND by Mr. Gold a lot of their targets would go underground. Most of their targets were already under FOXHOUND and Mithril's eyes even before the Amalgam attacked.
Most of the suspects were already considered suspicious; unfortunately being suspicious of a person was not enough to go on. Both groups needed one-hundred percent confirmation that some of these people were major players in the organization.
Sousuke looked around the hangar and wondered out loud, "Do you think we can win this time?"
Michael put his hands in his pocket and looked at Sousuke, "Don't know. They know that we are coming and Mr. Gold is someone to watch out for. This could be a trap but at this point what choice do we have?"
"Understood." Sousuke looked around and saw Mao going over something with a FOXHOUND tech.
"Well, well, well! If it ain't our favorite die-hard!"
Sousuke turned and had Weber's arm around his neck.
"Saw Kaname do a real number on you buddy!" Weber joked as he looked at Michael,
"Same goes for you!" He snickered as he remembered Kaname dragging the two like lambs to the slaughter.
"Stuff it Weber. What exactly could've anyone done at that point?" Michael responded sharply.
"This," Weber stepped back and got on one knee in front of Michael and spoke in a tone to mock Sousuke, "Kaname I came high and low to find and take you away from all of this."
Weber started to attract a crowd as Michael rubbed his temples at Weber's display. He looked over at Sousuke who only hid his face in his palm.
"I just wanted to see you again after months and months being away from a lovely girl such as you." Weber gave a slight laugh and stood up, "And you do that. I guarantee you that it works."
"A true poet."
Kurz's eyebrow shot up as he turned to Joe, "Nutcase"
"Pervert." Joe greeted "Heard you had some problems with phone-booth lately."
Weber laughed mockingly, "Looks like news travel at the speed of a flying toilet"
"It wasn't THAT fast" The bomber smiled "So... Care to give us an inside look of the phone booth?"
Michael kept his mouth closed but the laugh started to come through spurts as that memory came back to him.
Sousuke stifled a smile thinking about the look on Weber's face.
"Fresse! (Bite me!)" Kurz hissed.
"I can see Goldy banging at the door like a caged animal. Sign 'Goldius Perverticus.Do not feed' on the door..."
"Well, actually..." Everyone turned to a smiling cigarette smoking Mao with a piece of paper in her hand, "It looked more like this."
Weber looked at the piece of paper and froze.
Before Weber could say anything Mao snatched the paper and showed it to Sousuke, Michael and Joe.
Joe and Michael laughed out loud pointing at the picture while Sousuke looked at it.
It was a picture of Weber pressed against the booth. One of the techs must have taken a picture of it and made flyers.
Underneath the picture in bold letters it read, "BEWARE OF PREVERT!"
Needless to say, this caused an ocean of laughs.
"They should standardize this sign!" Joe said wiping a tear from his eye.
Weber crossed his arms and pouted with, "It's not that funny."
Mao gave a big cat grin to Weber, "You're right. It's not funny, it's hilarious!"
"Give me that!" Weber snatched the paper from their hands and turned to Michael,
"You're a Major! Can't you do something!?"
Michael took a deep breath to calm himself from the hysterical laughing he was doing,
"Okay I'll take care of it. I'll be sure to do something."
"Not later! Now!" Weber demanded.
Michael waved his hands calming Weber, "Okay give me a second." He stepped to the middle of the hanger and yelled, "HEY CAN I GET EVERYONE'S ATTENTION!!"
Everyone stopped what they were doing and turned to Michael.
He held the paper, "THIS KIND OF JOKE SHOULD NOT BE TOLERATED!"
Everyone saw the picture and started to give a stifled laugh or giggle at the contents of it.
"PEOPLE THERE IS A TIME FOR JOKES AND A TIME TO BE SERIOUS!" Michael finished it and threw the paper away.
He walked up to Weber and said, "Happy?"
Weber raised his finger and said, "Some what but you need to understand that I can't be the but of every joke Mr."
Joe whispered so that only Mao could hear, "I don't think he knows that that is his purpose here."
Mao laughed at that one.
"Look," He said turning to everyone, "We need to-"Weber paused and turned to Sousuke behind him.
"Had a piece of hair on you Sgt." Sousuke showed a piece of hair in his hand.
Weber put his hand on Sousuke's shoulder and said, "Good man, see this is the kind of respect I should get every now and than. Right?" He turned to Mao who was trying to stop herself from laughing along with Joe. Michael was looking at a report someone gave him but it looked like he was about to laugh too.
Weber threw his hands up in frustration, "No one understands a genius like me." He turned and headed toward his M9.
Unknown to him a member of FOXHOUND had handed Sousuke one of the flyers and taped it to his back. Sousuke's stealth experience made it easy for him to do the deed without Weber knowing a thing.
"He's a genius, alright" Joe commented.
Mao gave a playful slap across Sousuke's head, "Wonder how long it will take until he realizes he has something on his back."
"My estimation is that he will not realize unless someone has the mercy to tell him." Sousuke answered.
"Which will be never." Mao finished as she dragged Sousuke to his M9, "Michael you coming?"
Michael handed the report back to the tech, "Nah, I've got something else to take care of at the moment." He looked at his watch, "We've got two hours before the briefing, so I'll meet you there." Michael gave a small wave and left down the hall.
Mao shrugged her shoulders, "He looks like he is going to take my advice and talk to Mei Ling."
"Sun's feelin' down?" Joe asked,
Mao looked at Joe, "Not the way I'd put it, but... Yeah she's feeling down about what she did back there."
"Her first kill." Joe sighed," I remember my first kill. Didn't feel great."
"Likewise"
"But why send Mike?" Joe raised his brow.
"Because they're close" Mao said after taking a drag from her cigarette "Closer than they pretend to be"
Sousuke said nothing as he looked at the M9 he may be using. Until he had full confirmation that he would take part in the attack Sousuke was only allowed to work on it until the briefing.
Mei Ling sat in the cramp room of the TDD-1. She really hated these cramped quarters even though the sub was one of the safest things in the world.
She sighed and rested her head on the table using her arms as a makeshift pillow.
The look in his eyes.
That man touching and grabbing all over her body. The thought of it all still made her clench her shirt in fear.
She always went back to the man with the scar across his face. The strong cigarette smoke that covered his body and the hard smell of gunpowder that permeated the room.
The memory was interrupted when she heard a knocking on her door. She got up and cracked the door slightly, "Michael?" She was completely surprised that he would come and visit. Mei Ling had thought that he would be planning the attack or helping Sousuke.
"Hey!" He said holding two sodas in his hands, "How are things?"
Mei Ling closed her gaping mouth as she blushed lightly, "OK I'm just working on some things."
"May I come in?"
Mei Ling nodded quickly wishing she had a little time to clean her hair up at least. She opened the door more and took one of the sodas from Michael's hands.
Michael opened his drink and sat on the bed.
Mei Ling took the seat in front of him and held her drink in her hand. She gazed down at the floor, "Mao told you to come didn't she?"
Michael looked at her, "More like wanted me to come but I wanted to confirm something that I may have already known."
Mei Ling looked at him, "Yea you already know what it was that really bothered me. The reason why I killed that man."
Michael put the drink on the floor and sighed, "What happened to you was horrible Mei Ling but right now we are counting on you."
Mei Ling was silent then said, "You got me out of China. You saved me from a horrible life."
Michael didn't say anything. His was once again stone faced as he looked at her, "I was just doing my job."
Mei Ling got out of her chair and sat next to Michael on the bed. She leaned against him and rested her head on his shoulder, "My feelings for you will never change."
Michael sighed, "They should Mei Ling. I'm not the-"
She silenced him by putting her finger on his lips, "Stop it. Can't we just enjoy this moment if not for a little while. No past or anything." She looked at him in his eyes wanting to be closer with him.
Michael avoided eye contact from her, "Mei Ling we-"
Mei Ling stopped him by pulling back on the bed and just laid next to him, "You have some time before the briefing." She moved closer to him with her head touching his chest, "Just please stay with me for a little while."
Michael was hesitant about all of this. This was what he wanted to avoid but Mao was right when she came to him. Something was bothering her since the Paris mission and after all she was a friend.
Mei Ling was the only real friend he had besides Sousuke.
Michael shuffled up and leaned against the wall. He pulled Mei Ling against his chest and just held her, "Just get some rest."
Mei Ling grabbed his shirt and gripped it as hard as she could. She dreamed of this for a long time but now that it was happening. She just wished for more, "You're a good person Michael. Please remember that."
Michael didn't say anything as Mei Ling laid against him. For a moment Michael sensed a feeling of quiet that he had not experienced for a long time. He looked down and saw that Mei Ling was already fast asleep. Her chest slowly rose and fell as her quiet breathing tickled his chest. He tighten his grip around her, wanting to enjoy this feeling for just a little longer.
For a while there was no war, battles or blood on his hands. In this moment there was someone with him, willing to share in the burden that he carried. Still, this was a burden that only he and he alone could carry until the day he died.
He looked at the small cabin and just smiled for a second. Nothing else mattered at that moment. This was a place that he felt truly wanted.
Michael rested his head in Mei Ling's hair, "Thank you." He whispered quietly hoping that she would not hear or even remember this.
It was the first time in a long time all the guilt and sorrow Michael had experienced did not matter at all.
Instead he experienced something that he did not think he would ever experience again.
Hope.
Leonard could not believe everything that had happened in the last forty-eight hours. His entire plan was shut down and would take a lot of time to revise and even more time to execute at the right moment.
The bandage across his nose was a painful and infuriating reminder of his ultimate humiliation and the destruction of all that he had worked to achieve over the years.
The simple fact that Sousuke and the rest of Mithril and FOXHOUND were coming his way alarmed him the most. He tried to reason with Mr. Gold, who took up residence in his island villa that they should leave and head to the main HQ of Amalgam.
Mr. Gold would not listen to him and only replied with, 'It's about time you see what they can really do and I want to see that.'
Leonard sighed in aggravation as he leaned back into his chair looked straight up at the ceiling. Mr. Gold was still a mystery to him even though they spoke many times about Amalgam's future and the development of Project R.
Leonard had to admit that he had never seen a weapon like R. It was indeed a powerful monster that could change the shape of the world. Still, getting his hands on this weapon was his only way of taking over Amalgam completely.
Still, the situation around the villa was tense for everyone. Mr. Gold had ordered Mr. R aka Vulcan Raven to come to the villa along with Sniper Wolf. He ordered Psycho Mantis and Ocelot to head to Amalgam HQ and await orders.
Leonard got up from his chair and took the tea cup from the stand and looked outside. He could see Venoms patrolling the island and a helicopter flying overhead. It was a Russian Hind-E attack helicopter and there where two others on the helipad on the roof of his villa. He put the cup down and could barely hide the intense hate he had for Sousuke and his accursed brother. Leonard could still remember those eyes.
Those eyes hid something that he could not understand.
Sousuke Sagara having something more than being a soldier infuriated Leonard even more. He was just a mindless grunt that killed like an animal. There was nothing special about that.
Those gray eyes still haunted him and drove his rage even more. It was as if Leonard could tell that Sousuke was stronger than him.
"THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE!" Leonard screamed slapped teacup and kettle off the stand next to him breaking it staining the Persian carpet he had in his office.
He slammed his hands on his office desk and gripped the sides of it as his body shook from his outburst.
Leonard paused for a second and took a deep breath. He-
There was a knock on his door.
"Come on in." He said without even looking at the door opened.
"It seems that you had an accident Silver."
Leonard gulped and tensed hearing the voice of Mr. Gold. He turned to face the head who was wearing a full brown trench coat that covered his entire body, "Mr. Gold what can I do for you?"
Gold took a seat and motioned Silver to do the same, "I came to tell you that Mr. Kalinin and Mr. X have arrived at the villa."
Leonard felt a little relief. Mr. X was their best assassin and it was without any doubt that X could take out these two annoyances.
Mr. Gold smiled and said, "If you think that Mr. X is going to kill them then your wrong."
Leonard looked at him with complete shock, "Sir they-"
"If I'm right and I know I am than Mr. Kanzuki will be leading a ground assault. I ordered Mr. X to fight him and him alone. The combat data from this fight will be essential for finalizing the gene therapy methods we are developing." Gold interrupted him. It still amused him that Gold could out smart this so called genius.
The only genius came from experience and Leonard lacked it.
Leonard just looked at him, "Mr. Gold with all due respect Mr. X should just eliminate him without any hesitation."
Gold merely chuckled, "Your right he should kill him but he would not be valuable unless he is alive."
"Mr. Gold we-"
"We need to think about what the enemy can provide us," Gold got up and looked down at him, "We have not been able to replicate the process that Mr. Kanzuki has undergone since we have been experiencing more failures than usual. Dr. Hunter needs more data and even some DNA to find out how he can adjust to the changes properly and efficiently. Don't forget he entered Stage 3 ahead of the schedule Dr. Hunter gave us."
Leonard was speechless at this. From the way he was talking it seemed like that they should just capture them and be done with it.
"And Mr. Sagara is valuable too," Mr. Gold smirked as Leonard's face twitched slightly at the mention of that name, "You see unlike the soldiers we use, he needs no drugs to use the Lambda driver." Gold took a seat and studied Leonard.
"So we need him to see how he can use the Lambda driver without needing the drugs the pilots use." Leonard shook his head, "Mr. Gold I need no drugs to pilot Belial or even use the Lambda driver why not use that data?"
Mr. Gold looked away for a second and tapped his finger on the couch. He then turned to Leonard, "What need would I have for data on someone who has little combat experience?"
Leonard was offended by that and stood up, "Mr. Gold, I defeated the Arbalest without any problem. It should show that my knowledge of that device is more valuable than anything that man could bring us. So why do you need him!?" Leonard had never been more infuriated in his life until now. Sousuke's worth was more than his own. At this rate, his own life would be worth nothing.
Mr. Gold merely stood up and looked at him, "Your right why would I praise a man like Sousuke over you. I mean you did create the Alastors and your knowledge of AS units has indeed been valuable." Mr. Gold looked at him, "So why would I need the experience of the man we want to kill?"
Leonard looked at him with his face still holding the same contempt look. He-
Mr. Gold swiftly grabbed Leonard's head and smashed it into the oak desk. Leonard cried out in pain as he tried to force his head back up. He couldn't and his fear only grew as he saw Mr. Gold merely holding him down with one hand.
Gold applied more pressure, "I need him because unlike you he has years of combat experience. His experience with AS units is more valuable than anything you can make."
Gold twisted Leonard's head, "Technology is only as good as the pilot. The pilot MUST be able to know how to use any weapon to its fullest potential and the only way he can do that is if he has experience."
Leonard could almost feel Gold's hand about to smash his head like a melon. This man could be called the equal to the Legendary Solid Snake.
"He can pull out the power of the Lambda driver without drugs and I need to know how!" Mr. Gold finished and took his hand off of Leonard's head.
Leonard panted as he slowly turned his head to face Gold. It would not be wise to say anything at this point.
Gold turned away, "And concerning your battle with the Arbalest was not an equal fight. You won and nothing changes that but if he had a machine that could equal yours in every aspect than it comes down to two things."
Leonard turned his head as he braced himself against the desk, "And what is that Mr. Gold?"
"The skill and experience in the fight. Both of which you lack!" Gold slammed the door and left the room.
Leonard was silent for a second and thought about what Gold had said. He admitted that Sousuke was an accomplished pilot. Even he was amazed that he was able to take out so many Venoms when they attacked Tokyo. The OCELOT unit pilots should have done the job and taken care of him but they had a tough fight and Sousuke had earned their respect.
Gold was right though, he lacked the experience and skill that Sousuke had over him. Still in due time he could come up with a way to win.
Leonard looked outside and saw Kaname walking around the outside of the villa. He smiled as he looked down at her thinking about all that was happening here and now.
Leonard was indeed in love with the beauty and her tenacity was what drew him to her. She was unlike any woman he had ever met before and he had met a lot of women. Kaname Chidori stood out the most and that was what drew him to her. All that needed to be taken care of was FOXHOUND, Mithril and soon the rest of Amalgam. Leonard only needed to get his hands on Dr. Hunter and eventually Project R.
Kaname felt a chill go through her body as she turned around. She saw Leonard looking at her through the window. The way he watched her with those wanting eyes still made her keep her guard up at all times.
She looked around the Caribbean island and knew that this was a paradise and a prison at the same time. At least four Venoms patrolled the island keeping an eye out for things along with satellites that could detect any kind of submarine.
What worried Kaname more was the fact that more and more AS units were arriving which meant that Amalgam was expecting a massive assault on the island. Sousuke had hinted in their last meeting that Mithril and FOXHOUND were almost ready to strike back. She could only guess that the reason they came to that party was to get information on the heads of Amalgam. If Kaname knew the two brothers then it was safe to say that they accomplished their mission along with many other perks.
Leonard threw a fit when a Mithril operative in a disguise had snuck into his private office and planted the entire bathroom with C4 explosives and promptly blew the whole thing straight to the heavens.
Not only that, she was able to literally kick Leonard's butt when he deserved. She would have to thank Sousuke, Michael and the other Mithril operative who called himself Joe for that gift to her.
She stopped walking and leaned against a tree and looked up. No matter what she told Sousuke, he was going to keep coming no matter what. He was totally devoted to bringing her back to Tokyo and to her family.
However, the men around Mr. Gold were some of the most dangerous people she had ever met in her life. The sheer power and raw killing intent they emitted was almost enough for anyone's spirit to break at just being near them.
They were true killers and professionals at the highest level in the mercenary world.
Caw Caw
She stopped as a massive bird flew near her head almost hitting her. She cried in fear and ducked down and looked at the ground in front of her.
It was a black raven with its back behind her.
"Stupid bird." She muttered.
Almost immediately the bird hopped up and turned to face her. Its head moved up and down looking at the now frightened woman.
"Easy bird, easy," She said tense as the vivid memory of Alfred Hitchcock's movie 'The Birds' came back to her mind.
She took a step back and the raven cawed at her and flew at her.
Kaname protected her head with her arms as she tried to make some kind of shield to protect herself from the raven.
She tensed as she felt nothing hit her. Instead she felt something on her shoulder. Kaname opened her eyes and was greeted by the raven sitting on her shoulder.
The raven moved its head forward and rubbed its head against her cheek like a cat would to an owner's leg.
Kaname was taken back by this new development and wondered what a raven was doing here. They were not native to this area in any way what so ever, so someone had to have brought it with them as a pet.
It would explain why it was so well trained.
The bird jumped off her shoulder and flew to the ground in front of her. It looked forward than hopped up and turned around in one fast motion. It cawed at her almost wanting her to follow where it wanted to go.
Kaname had seen a lot of things in her short life but nothing like this, "Okay bird, I'm leaving and-" She turned around and the raven flew by her almost intent on making her follow where it wanted it to go.
Kaname was not sure how to take this but she would try another way.
She took a step to the left and the bird copied her.
Kaname took a step to the left and the bird followed her as well.
She growled in agitation. Kaname was able to put up with Sousuke but now she was having her patience drain away quickly by this birds actions.
Kaname did one final thing. She walked in a straight line to the left and the bird followed her. She did the same but to the right and bird followed her.
Kaname stopped and yelled, "What do you want from me bird!?" She was thankful that no one was around to see the teenage girl having a shouting match with this bird.
The raven cawed again and flew past her. It landed and looked at the trail leading into the forest. The raven cawed and pointed its head in that direction and turned to Kaname again and once again cawed and pointed its head at her.
Kaname threw her hands up in frustration, "Okay bird you win." She started to walk down the path and raven jumped on her shoulder and gently held its place on her shoulder.
Kaname gently stroked the underside of its neck like a cat and the bird seemed to like it. She did feel tense about the raven considering they were generally symbolized death and other ominous things.
The raven cawed and moved its head towards the path she walked on. It seemed that it wanted to go in that direction.
Kaname sighed in defeat and followed the bird's instructions deeper into the woods. She had never walked around the woods since she became a 'guest' of the villa. Kaname arrived here only two months after she was taken from Tokyo. She had to keep enduring Leonard's constant advances and his efforts to win her over to his side among other things.
She looked down sadly. The only thing that really kept her going was Sousuke coming for her. It was a double edged sword because of the feelings towards him she developed.
Kaname wanted Sousuke to come and rescue her but at the same time she did not want him to come. If Sousuke came and got her out, then the whole game would begin all over again.
Another organization or government would kidnap her and Sousuke would come for her again and again. There was no telling how many organizations wanted the secrets of the whispered and how far they would go to get that info.
Sousuke was a strong and dependable soldier but even he could not keep up with all the battles to come in the future.
Even with his brother the battles would keep going and more and more people would suffer because of her.
She stopped for a second and whipped the tears from her face. She-
Kaname felt something go from her shoulder to her head.
The raven walked down her head and peaked its head down.
Kaname growled at it saying, "You stupid bird," She waved her hands around to get it off, "My head is not you personal perch!"
The raven flew to a branch and looked at her. It cawed at her the same way it did earlier.
"You want me to go through that?" She eyed the path with suspicion since it was heavy with grass and overhead vines.
The raven cawed again and took off into the forest even further.
Kaname was hesitant for a second and weighed her options. On one hand she could leave and never think about this other bird again. However, on the other hand the raven could track her down and have to repeat the whole process all over again.
Kaname rubbed her neck and only followed the trail. She was really happy that she was wearing pants instead of those dresses she had to wear because of the heat. Kaname had a good idea as to who was behind her wardrobe.
Kaname stopped after a few minutes and saw a massive clearing in the forest. It was dark and she soon realized that she was in a dense part of the forest without even realizing it.
Caw
Kaname looked up and saw her raven friend above her and flew into the clearing.
Kaname took a step forward and stopped. She gasped slightly at the massive colored stone in front of her.
However, it was not a stone since it started to move. The giant person sat with her back to her in front of what looked like a fire to Kaname.
Kaname heard the raven caw one more time and finally it perched on the giant's shoulder. She gulped and slowly took a step back.
"Do not be afraid Tiger," The massive person finally spoke in a low and heavy tone, "I will not hurt you."
Kaname seemed to almost be hypnotized by the voice. It was strong and powerful but at the same time soothing to her. She could believe that this person did not want to hurt her.
The man stood up and Kaname got a good look at how huge this man was. He was clearly the most massive man she had ever seen. He had dark skin and his entire body just seemed to be one big tank with all the muscles on his body.
The man turned and stepped closer to her. Kaname looked up and saw the black markings around his chest, arms and the raven on his bald head. She recognized the markings and saw that they had to be Native America.
The massive man looked down and smiled at her, "My name is Vulcan Raven or Raven for short tiger." He turned and head back to the fire, "Come join me for a few minutes. My friend seems to like you."
The raven cawed at his response and flew back to Kaname who landed on her shoulder.
Kaname took a seat opposite the small fire the man called Raven had made. She noticed the circle was surrounded by cut logs. The fire was surrounded by stones and by the look of the ashes in the fire Raven had been here for some time.
Raven took a deep breath and threw what looked like sticks and stones at the ground. He looked at the ground and looked like he was studying them closely.
Kaname coughed slightly and said, "So what are you doing?" She asked almost innocently.
Raven smiled slightly and looked at her, "Seeing what the future holds Tiger."
Kaname looked at me puzzled, "Tiger?"
Raven gave a low laugh, "Indeed," He pointed at her, "Fierce, strong and independent. However you are calm, gentle and a wondrous spirit. You indeed possess all the strengths of a tiger."
Kaname was not sure how to take what he just said, "I hate to ask but," She hesitated for a second, "was that a compliment?"
Raven chuckled at her, "Indeed. The strength you have supports the red dragon." He picked the sticks up again and threw them just short of the fire.
"Red dragon?" Kaname asked wondering how much weirder this conversation could get. She was sitting with a giant man who called her a tiger while also talking about a red dragon with a raven on her shoulder.
The raven rubbed against her cheek as she stroked the bird on its back.
Raven laughed, "He seems to like you."
Kaname smiled and looked back at the giant, "I guess so, he seemed so intent on bringing me here that he did everything except drag me by my clothes." She laughed a little at that.
Raven pointed at the bird, "Raven's in our culture have been a link between this world and the spirit world. He appeared to you because there was something that you needed to hear tiger." He reached over and picked up the sticks.
Kaname looked at him sharply, "Hear what."
"A warning, the future and a message," He threw the sticks and studied them closely then looked at her, "A red dragon will come soon," he looked down at the sticks than back at her, "It will be reborn of a blue dragon that was destroyed by the demon. This red dragon will spread a fire that will consume all in its path and strike fear into the demon."
Kaname shook her head confused, "Who are you talking about?"
Raven smiled, "The red dragon is the symbol of the man you love. The demon is the man who seeks to sway the tiger to his side."
"Man I-" She gasped, "Sousuke!?"
Raven only nodded, "He is strong. Much stronger than you can imagine however his heart from what I can gather is weak and his spirit is unsure. The path he walks on is like ice. It is a path that can break easily beneath his feet if his heart is unsure even in the slightest bit the ice will break. Once he drowns this time he will never return to the man you once knew."
Kaname was silent at this. She knew that Sousuke was so gun-ho about finding her but the words she spoke to him at the party were the same kind of things she told him before the huge battle that took place in Tokyo.
"A wolf supports him as best he can but this wolf's true nature is not as a wolf but as a fox," He looked up at her, "When the dragon is reborn wolf and fox will fight to claim dominance and only one will stand at the end."
Kaname was silent at this just listening to his predictions. The only wolf that supported Sousuke was Michael. She knew that he would stand by his side through thick and thin and until the end. It was a bond that was so deep that she could barely scratch it.
"I see something else and you must be careful of what I tell you tiger," Raven looked at her sharply, "Two snakes will fight and it will be unlike anything we have ever seen. One snake lives in this world and the other lives as his shadow. Two different snakes but they share one body. A battle of control will begin with dragon, fox, tiger and demon in the middle. A battle to control the very destiny and shape of the world we live in." Raven pointed at her, "You must make a choice soon but it will require the loss of the one most precious things to you. Remember, you will make that choice and it will affect everything." Raven finished.
Kaname's heart pumped blood faster through her body to try and control the immense fear she felt. These predictions could be possible but the man's very presence and spirit told her that he was right about what he just said.
Kaname took a deep breath, "This choice was my warning?"
Raven nodded, "Yes tiger and you must be careful. The demon is cunning and will use anything that he has at his disposal to win." He stood up and pointed at the raven on her shoulder, "However this message was not what the raven was sent for."
Kaname looked at him confused, "Then what did you just tell me!?" She demanded.
Kaname hated being yanked around like a dog when it came to things like this. She understood the warning and the cryptic future but what was the freaking message!? How was a bird supposed to deliver it to her!?
Raven smiled, "Close your eyes and relax."
Kaname stood there with her mouth opened looking at him. If he wasn't so big she would hit him, "You want me to relax after all that cryptic talk about dragons and demons. I swear it sounds like a movie!?"
Raven laughed at her.
Kaname huffed and put her hands on hips, "What is so funny?!"
Raven stopped and smiled at her, "I can see why he loves you."
"Loves what do-"All of a sudden Kaname just dropped to her knees. She was consumed by an overwhelming sense of warmth and almost completion of her soul. The tears followed down her eyes without her saying a sound. She clutched her heart and touched her shoulder almost touched the hand on it. She gently rubbed her shoulder as if she was touching someone's hand.
The warmth and everything that she felt was so strong and so familiar. Kaname was able to whisper out, "Sousuke."
Raven nodded, 'Yes, the dragon." The raven jumped off her shoulder and flew to Raven's shoulder as it looked at her.
"How did you-" She was barely able to get anything out. Kaname wiped the tears from her face as she slowly stood up with her own strength.
Raven turned to leave, "There are things in this world that even the greatest geniuses do not understand. The world beyond ours is such a world of mystery and wonder. Sometimes through the right methods it can communicate feelings and souls to those in dire need. This raven was that messenger." He disappeared into the forest.
Kaname took a seat back on the wood and just looked at the fire as it died down slowly. She picked up some sand and covered the fire to put it out completely. Kaname threw another handful of dirt on the fire and soon it was out.
Kaname was silent as she walked back to the manor. She clutched her heart with both hands and still felt the warmth covering and protecting her from the cold that she felt for many months.
Kaname's only hope and wish was that Sousuke would survive and get her out of this. A feeling was one thing but she wanted to touch and hold the real thing.
It was the only way for her life to ever return to her old life.
The old life she remembered of mishaps, kooky situations and the familiar smack of her paper fan across that skull of his.
The old life she treasured with Sousuke Sagara always standing by her side.
Weber snapped his fingers over the glossy-eyed Sousuke.
Sousuke shook his head as he snapped out of the daze he was in. He rubbed his head coming out of whatever hit him just moments ago. For a second he just felt something far but close at the same time.
It just felt familiar.
"Hey you okay?" Mao got up from her seat next to Weber and looked at him. She put her hand on his forehead, "You seem okay and you don't have a fever but what was that?"
Sousuke looked at Mao, "It was nothing. Nothing happened."
Weber eyed him cautiously, "You sure you okay buddy? This isn't like you." He knew Sousuke very well and knew that he was at full attention when it came to any mission briefings. This one however he needed to be alert for in every sense.
"It's not a problem." Sousuke said quickly. He looked around one more time trying to find Michael who still had not made it to the briefing.
"Hey, Sarge!"
Sousuke turned around and saw Joe leaning in his chair behind him, "Joe?"
Joe leaned forward and said, "Any idea where Mike is right now? Briefing is about to start and I doubt he would miss it."
Sousuke shook his head again, "Michael left to go talk with the Lt. and since than nothing."
Joe shrugged his shoulders and smiled, "By the way Sarge." Sousuke looked at him unsure as to what he was going to say now. "Looks like you, me and Mike are at the top of Old-boy's shit-list." Joe slapped his shoulders, "Nice going there."
"I was merely answering his question." Sousuke smiled slightly. He did respect Commander Mardukas but most of his decisions seemed to be biased against him. It all seemed to stem back to the Captain and his relationship with the teenage girl. At most he tried to keep it as professional as he could but Tessa seemed to want a little more.
"I betcha he's with that cute little Lt in her cabin." Weber snickered as his thoughts started to run wild.
Mao nudged his shoulder, "I hope that those two are having fun." She smiled hoping that Mei Ling was doing a little better now with Michael talking to her. Mao could honestly see that Mei Ling loved Michael but he was too stubborn to acknowledge it or even let the past go.
"Talking about Sun and Mike again?" Joe asked as he stuck his head between Weber and Mao.
Weber stretched his arms, "Hey I bet that-"
"Bet what?"
All three turned around and saw Michael standing and giving a slight wave at them.
Mao stopped smiling and turned away.
Weber did the same as Joe just smiled and waved at him.
Joe smirked and said, "So... You and Sun are..."
Mao and Weber immediately tensed and sat rigid. They saw what he could do with CQC in the Paris operation and they both agreed that he was scary.
Michael shook his head and banged Weber into Mao's head, "We were."
Mao turned around about to pounce on him as if he were Weber, "You little shit!" She yelled and sighed, "Is she doing better?"
Michael merely nodded and took a seat next to Sousuke.
Sousuke still looked at the front as Snake and the others prepared to give the briefing,
"Anything bothering you?" He knew little about the history between Mei Ling and Michael but could only summarized that something happened that involved the two in major ways.
"We just talked and that was it." He said quickly as the Colonel got everyone's attention.
The lights dimmed and the map screen behind them came on. The image of an island came up as a red house shape figure marked the intended target.
Everyone turned to the front of the board as Campbell got started, "It's time everyone. As of o'-eight hundred hours tonight we will commence Operation Zeus."
There was loud cheer and clapping as people showed their eagerness for this op. Mao and Weber whistled over the crowd and clapped as hard as they could. Sousuke and Michael did not look at each other but instead hit the back of their palms.
The Colonel silenced the calming cheer and continued, "All of our operatives have been placed near their targets. Orders are to eliminate at zero-eight-hundred hours which is the same time we will launch the counter attack."
Everyone stood silent listening to the Commander of FOXHOUND continue.
"Before we get to the operation phases there is something that must addressed to you all now," The map behind him changed to a screen with the four pictures behind him, "What you are looking at are the personal bodyguards of Mr. Gold and they are the highest ranked mercenaries in the world. If you encounter these four your orders are to retreat for all. These mercenaries are in their own league and will kill you easily. Let us begin."
Sousuke and Michael looked at the picture of Wolf on the screen. The very sister that looked after them was one such person. For them to accomplish their goals they would have to fight her.
"Sniper Wolf," Roy pointed to the first picture, "She is a specialist in sniping and hunting her targets. She is called Ms. W in Amalgam's assassin's guild and is high ranked in the organization. Rumors are that she is responsible for the deaths of many politicians against military building in their own country. Wolf is a survivor of the Kurd gassing as well as Outer Heaven. In the underworld she is the number one sniper in the world."
Weber looked at the picture of Wolf and whispered to Mao, "He is not lying. Rumors are that she can stand still and wait for a target for seven days without food or water. Waiting for that perfect shot."
Before Mao could comment Campbell continued.
Roy pointed to the Eskimo looking man, "Vulcan Raven or Mr. R. He is a giant and shaman from the Eskimo tribes in Alaska who seems to have other worldly powers. He is a spiritual man who has been reported seen lifting a car and throwing it fifty feet away.
He is in charge of many of Amalgam's training and testing operations. His methods are described in their reports as brutal and in some cases deadly. However, those that survive become top-notch soldiers and these soldiers were the front-line men in the attack months ago."
Campbell took a deep breath and moved on to the man with a gas mask on his face,
"Psycho Mantis is known as Mr. P in Amalgam. Not much is known about this man except his telekinetic powers and mind reading powers."
Weber scoffed and said, "Are you sure these reports are confirmed?"
Campbell smiled and said, "We expected this so we found this in one of his training sessions."
The image changed to a video where Mantis stood floating as objects floated around him. He gave a cackle that gave Sousuke the chills a little. It almost sounded like Gauron.
The image changed to a man pleading to Mantis as he floated to him. Mantis looked at him and than flung him against the wall. The man cried out in pain as he was pulled back and slammed even harder with each hit. Soon a small imprint of the man's blood was painted on the wall. The body was flung one final time and gave a sickening smack and thud on the ground.
Weber looked like he was about to throw up at that scene.
Campbell had the image change back to the four pictures, "Continuing," He said over the sick looks on everyone's faces, "He was a psychic for the KGB and for the Secret Police before he broke away. It was reported that he had over fifty people kill themselves as he made his escape. Since that incident, his current whereabouts were unknown until now."
Campbell turned to the final image of a blonde man. Sousuke looked over and saw Snake leaning against the wall looking at the picture closely. Up close, those two could be twins if not for the blonde hair.
"This man is Liquid Snake or as he is called Mr. Gold."
Everyone just stood up in a collective shock and gasp. It was just that the fact that they found his identity but to know that he had a codename similar to Solid Snake.
"Before he became Mr. Gold, Liquid served as the personal bodyguard to the original Mr. Gold until Liquid killed him. After he killed Mr. Gold, he eliminated Mr. Gold's supporters and took the organization by force. This change was only days before the Hong Kong incident."
Sousuke and Michael tensed at this new development. They both knew that Mr. Gold now Liquid Snake was indeed a dangerous man. At the party he seemed to show no mercy or pity at all. Liquid seemed to only get joy out of the mayhem he caused. The one thing that bothered them both and they discussed this slightly after the op. It was Liquid calling out Snake and demanding if he was listening to everything. Did they know each other?
"We know nothing about Liquid Snake except he shares the same code name as our own Snake." Campbell finished with, "However, he is the biggest danger in this operation. Stay away from Liquid at all costs."
Everyone just nodded their heads at it and watched as Tessa took the stage.
Tessa took a deep breath and started, "Due to the importance of this operation we have decided on three attack phases. The first two phases Mithril will have authority over, but the third phase will have FOXHOUND's stamp."
Everyone murmured at this but agreed that it made sense.
Weber looked over at Michael and said, "Looks like Mithril takes the big show doesn't it Mike."
Michael smirked and said, "We work backstage to make sure the main play goes off without a problem."
Weber would have continued but Tessa raised her voice to get everyone's attention. She felt she was in a pack of wolves with everyone eyeing her hungrily. Tessa knew that most of FOXHOUND did not respect her in the slightest but she had a job to do, "The first wave will launch at the time of the operation. The SRT from Mithril lead by Lt. Commander Clouseau will launch with half of FOXHOUND's unit called 'Hounds."" She finished and a detailed map came up behind her.
The Hounds were FOXHOUND's equivalent to the SRT AS teams. They were the best pilots gathered from other U.S military branches and trained in stealth tactics in AS suits. Currently Second Lt Tim Clappord was the commanding officer since Meryl went missing.
"The two teams under the Lt. Commander's orders," She added, "will attack the island from the north here." She pointed to the landing zone and it was marked by a red x mark, "Once you land you will push through the enemy lines to the villa."
The pilots talked to each other hoping that the next phase would involve some kind of reinforcements.
Tessa continued, "Once all units have been launched the TDD-1 will move to the south of the island and launch all remaining forces both AS and ground units. Our hope is to cause a split in the enemy. Once the enemy units have been subdued ground troops will move in to secure the villa. We can expect heavy resistance from both AS units, Alastor units and even human troops. The right weaponry has arrived and support of the TDD-1 will be available upon request. However, concerning the villa we do not expect that Amalgam will wait till the last second to vacate. By the time our ground forces reach the villa we will be able to secure it.
Solid Snake will take it from here." Tessa stepped back and allowed Snake to take stage.
Snake took a deep breath and started, "Tonight we will send a two man team into the island and they will send any and all defense intel back to the TDD-1. This intel will allow us the chance to break through the defenses easier."
Mao stood up, "So this two pronged attack is a distraction that will allow this team to take control of the villa?"
Snake nodded, "Yes Lt. This kind of infiltration is what FOXHOUND excels at and the kind of attack that will take place is what Mithril is best suited for. Hence why we split the decisions based on the organizations strength."
Mao took her seat some what satisfied with his answer.
Sousuke whispered to Michael, "Makes sense, but who is the team?"
Joe peaked over and said, "Not sure, but my money's on the mullet over there."
Weber scoffed and said, "That's Solid Snake. THE Solid Snake. The Legend from Outer Heaven and Zanzibar land!"
Joe looked at him and said, "Like I'm going to fall for that one"
"What do you mean?"
"You know what I mean you sneaky..."
Before Joe could finish Campbell took the stage, "This mission will be lead by Solid Snake and..."
Snake crossed his arms and smiled, "Major Michael Kanzuki aka Specter Wolf."
Michael's eyes shot out of his eyes with that response as the FOXHOUND soldiers cheered and clapped at this new twist.
"Stand up! Stand up!" Weber encouraged him as Joe pushed Michael to stand up.
Michael wasn't really sure how to take this new twist considering that there were much more qualified people to assist Snake in this op. Still, he smiled as Commander Mardukas went sour at this new twist.
"The objectives of the two operatives," Campbell spoke which silenced everyone, "is simple. The first objective is to pinpoint all anti-air weapons for the TDD-1 to take out along with possible AS suit locations. Once the attack from both sides begins the team will infiltrate the villa and take control of the manor. This leads to the second and third objective which is securing all laptops, files and other intelligence pieces that could be useful. The third objective is the capture of ANY high ranked Amalgam members. You are authorized to shoot to kill if they do not heed the warnings. This is after three warnings are given of course." He looked sharply at Michael making sure he did not overstep himself this time. Campbell knew well that if Michael had the chance to kill Leonard he would not hesitate to pull the trigger.
Michael nodded, "Understood sir."
The map behind them dimmed and the lights came back on. Tessa continued, "The objective of the two waves is to control the island. However, you may be called upon to capture or shoot down any escaping vehicles. Try to shoot them down but if you cannot then you have permission to destroy. Understood?"
"YES MA'AM!" Everyone yelled.
Snake walked past Tessa, "We have been waiting for this moment for a long time. We lost a lot of friends and comrades because of them. It's about time we repay them." Snake listened to the silence, "Dismissed."
Everyone stood and saluted the commanding staff.
The command staff returned the salute as everyone lowered their hands and started to leave.
"Sgt. Sagara and Major Kanzuki we need to speak to you for a moment so please stay."
Mardukas yelled over the crowd.
Michael and Sousuke froze for a second.
Weber turned to them, "We will wait for ya." He said as Mao and Joe followed the rest out.
The room emptied as Michael and Sousuke stood at ease in front of the others. Tessa coughed and cleared her throat, "Sgt. Sagara, the Colonel and I have discussed this as much as we could and decided that you will be part of the SRT strike tomorrow."
Sousuke felt at ease. Now he could-
"However, Sgt and please take this to heart. You will be under strike observation and any deviation from the rest of the squad will result in termination from the SRT, arrest and detention to your quarters for an unspecified time. Understood?" Tessa said calmly and coolly. She was not going to mess around this time, They needed him for this!
Sousuke took a deep breath, "Yes ma'am!"
Commander Mardukas watched the man, "Dismissed!"
Sousuke saluted and looked at Michael. Michael gave Sousuke a nod and he left down the hall. Everyone could hear Weber's chatter and Mao's threats as they walked down the hall toward the hanger.
Michael took a deep breath, "I take it me being a part of the insertion is the way to ensure that Sousuke does not have to worry about Kaname."
Campbell looked surprised, "You caught onto to that quickly Major. You are right on that and we need to discuss something."
Michael sighed, "The capture of Tessa's brother?"
Tessa nodded, "Yes, I know how much you want to take him down but he is still my brother."
Michael bit into his lower lip, "I will exercise the three warning policy the Colonel ordered but," He looked at Tessa hard, "if he still refuses to surrender. I will take him out."
Tessa nodded meekly at this. She knew that Michael was hard pressed at getting Leonard but even he knew when to follow orders. This was a time that he would. He would do it for Sousuke's sake.
"Dismissed." Campbell ordered as Michael saluted him and left.
Mardukas watched him leave and once he was out of sight said, "Is it wise to have them in the operation?"
Tessa looked at Mardukas, "Regardless of their own personal feelings in this matter we cannot argue the simple fact that they are important for this operation to succeed. Even without the Arbalest the Sgt is still a fully capable pilot. The Major is the youngest member to earn the codename status and is indeed a fine soldier. The two play to their own strengths and those strengths make up for the others weakness."
Campbell nodded, "They know what is at stake and focus on that."
Mardukas shook his head, "Regardless of their talent there is still a chance of them being a hazard in this operation."
Snake took a seat and scoffed, "I'll be keeping a close eye on Wolf and the SRT will keep an eye on Sousuke. I don't know what you have against them?"
Mardukas looked sharply at Snake, "What I have against them is a lack of military discipline and procedure at this point. They are too reckless and focused on something else then what is at stake."
"Exactly!" Snake stood and looked at Mardukas square in the eyes, "They trust in each other as brothers should at this point. Now what I am saying is that they should stay focused on the mission but also on other important things as well."
"You mean the Sgt. and Miss Chidori?" Mardukas challenged. He never grew to like Solid Snake since he first met him. There was no doubt that Snake was a legend but he seemed too lax with the two.
Snake shook his head, "If you did not have your head so far up your ass then you might understand them a little better!"
Mardukas's eyes went aflame, "Excuse me! I think it is fair to address the fact if they are too preoccupied with their own objectives that they forget what they are!"
"And what are they Mardukas, huh!? Are they just soldiers meant to follow orders blindly!?" Snake challenged. He heard this too many times and would not put up with it again.
"Stop it right now!" Campbell ordered. He knew what was going to happen, "We made our decision so get use to it Commander."
Mardukas nodded as Snake just shook his head and walked away.
Tessa knew that this was going to happen. She knew that Mardukas had his reservations about the role Sousuke and Michael played in the operation, "Why do you put so much faith in them Snake?"
Snake stopped and said nothing. He just walked down the hall towards his room. He would need to prepare his equipment and maybe take a nap.
"His faith in the next generation." Campbell answered, "Snake knows that for the future to be created we need to trust the next generation. That is why he trusts those two so much."
Tessa sighed, "We can only hope that our faith is not misplaced tomorrow." Tessa walked down the hall and toward the command center. Things needed to be done before tomorrow.
A few hours passed after the briefing as Michael finished cleaning the M4 and Mark 23 that he would be using. He cocked each gun and made sure that everything sounded right and there would be no miss fires.
He quickly put his KBAR in his sheath and jammed everything into a bag. Michael took a deep breath and was out the door.
Michael walked briskly through the halls toward the torpedo launchers to meet with Snake and the others. The biggest question about the whole operation was which was how to successfully insert them. A HALO jump would take too long and they would be spotted once they deployed their chutes. Taking a raft would give too much notice so a two mile underwater swim was the only choice.
Snake and Michael would exit through the TDD-1's torpedo bays one hundred feet underwater to avoid radar. The TDD-1 was two miles just outside of the radar safe from any possible detection.
All their equipment would be in a waterproof trailer attached to a underwater scooter that the TDD-1 would control. It would follow them to the island and than head back once they got to the shore.
Michael lugged the M4 over his shoulder as he tried to adjust to the wetsuit he would be wearing. He was lucky that they had jungle camo clothes to change into once they were safe. Michael would not be able to stand walking around in the jungle while wearing the wetsuit.
Michael was already nervous about all of this. He was generally cool headed and calm about missions, but this was the big one for him. Michael was going to be working with Solid Snake on a mission, a mission to determine the operations outcome. Everyone was counting on him including Sousuke.
He would bring Kaname back and that was it for him. Michael's debt to Sousuke would be repaid in full at that moment.
"Michael!"
Michael stopped and silently cursed himself. Mei Ling was behind him.
Mei Ling ran to him and caught her breath. She raised her hand showing one finger at a bewildered Michael, "One second. Let me catch my breath."
Michael laughed, "Not getting enough exercise Mei Ling?"
Mei Ling gave a half hearted laugh, "Whatever." She said in a tone he was not use to.
Mao was definitely having an effect on her.
"Mei Ling," He said rushed, "I'm in a hurry and I need to be at the tanks quick!"
Mei Ling smiled and grabbed Michael's hand putting something in it, "This may help you."
Michael's face went from shock to awe in seconds, "Mei Ling," He opened his had to see a charm with the Chinese character 'lucky' written on it, "This is your charm."
As long as Michael had known her this was her most important possession. It was the only thing she had with her when he found her on that mission. Mei Ling never went anywhere without it since they had known each other.
"Just," She looked down, "keep it. You may get lucky."
Michael looked away and handed it back to her, "I don't need it."
Mei Ling shook her head and gently pushed his hand back, "No I want you to take it for now. I do expect it back."
"I don't need it." He said with a little more forcefully.
Mei Ling looked at him hurt and curled his fingers into his palm securely around the charm, "I want you to have it for this mission. This is important to you in so many ways. A lot of people are depending on you for this."
Michael said nothing.
'So just," She pushed his hand back, "Please let me do something for you besides talking to you on the radio."
Michael bit his lower lip and nodded, "Okay." He put the charm in his bag to would make sure it did not get wet.
Mei Ling nodded a little as she wiped her eye, "Okay, good luck." She turned around to leave.
"Hold on." He said as he put his bag down and unzipped the top part of his wetsuit. Michael took his dog tags off and threw them to her.
She caught them surprised and looked at them, "Your dog tags?"
Michael turned around and picked the bag up throwing it over his shoulder, "Just hold on to those. If I lose your charm than you keep those. Deal?"
Mei Ling yelled, "Deal!"
Michael waved at her as he disappeared down the hall.
Mei Ling looked at the dog tags and noticed something. Michael wore not just his FOXHOUND dog tags but his dog tags from the SAS as well. He still had those.
Mei Ling smiled sadly as she put the necklace on and stuffed them down her shirt. She felt that he was at least trying to show some change.
Not a lot but just a little.
"Alright. The old weirdo gave me these" Joe said as he gave Snake a few of the remote charges, "This is a variable geometry explosive device. It's constructed of smaller explosive charges which can change positions to shift the explosion. It can be remodeled to your standard SLAM mine in a matter of seconds." Joe pulled out a PDA "I've outfitted them with a computerized firing system. They can be controlled remotely through this. It jacks into your CODEC. The rest is simple if you follow the user-friendly interface of the PDA"
"Not bad. " Snake nodded," So, you're the squads bomb-nut?"
"You can say that." Joe looked at him and smiled "So, you're Solid Snake?"
Snake loaded his M4 and other equipment into the chest, "Don't I look like him?"
Joe sighed, "No offence, but words 'Solid Snake' coming from the pervert over there" he pointed to Kurz, "usually mean more than they actually say"
Snake smirked, "Now I'll know what to expect."
"Which isn't much" Joe laughed.
"Ehehehehehehe." Weber laughed back mockingly.
"Come on, Joe. Kurz CAN be useful." Mao smirked at the blonde.
"I can?" Kurz asked with pretended shock, "Wow! That's, probably, as close to a compliment as it'll ever get!"
Mao shut him up courtesy of an elbow under his chin, "So what is the plan?"
Snake got to it first, "We infiltrate the island with you guys controlling the underwater scooter. Once we get to the beach we take the equipment and find a place to change out of the wetsuits. Before the sub goes we will give it all our scuba gear to make it easier to get to the woods. After that we plan, observe and wait."
"Sounds like a straightforward plan but stuff goes wrong all the time." Michael said while he was moving past Sousuke and the other SRT members, "And we all know it can't be that easy."
"Never is but we have a job to do." Snake finished as he took Michael's guns and k-bar and put it in the water proof chest.
Michael shrugged his shoulders as he hoisted the oxygen tank onto his back. He heard more people coming and saw the Command Staff along with Sousuke.
"From this point on and until the operation is complete we will refer to you by your codenames. Specter Wolf and Solid Snake do you understand this directive?" Campbell asked.
Snake nodded and Michael answered with a 'Yes sir' at full attention.
"It is so simple anyone could understand it." Weber whispered to Mao who looked annoyed with him just being this close to her.
"So you would be the exception Weber." Snake finished checking his gear.
"Gentlemen," Tessa said, "Happy hunting."
Snake and Michael nodded at her not really saying anything.
Michael turned to Sousuke, "Just focus on not getting killed out their. If you die, than I die."
"Why would you die?" Tessa asked.
"Because Kaname would kill me if anything happen to him." Michael waved at him as the crew opened the torpedo tanks.
Sousuke nodded slightly, "When you see her can you give her a message for me?"
Michael stopped as he was half-way into the tube.
"Tell her that I am sorry for taking so long." Sousuke had said the same thing to her at the party but it still had the same meaning.
"Kid," Snake said with his body in the tube, "Say it to her when you see her. Just focus on getting to the island." The hatch closed.
Michael shook his head as he adjusted his goggles before the hatch closed, "Always a man of honor when it comes to this. Leave it to me, I'll bring her back." The hatch was closed as the crew opened the torpedo hatches letting the water flow through.
Joe nudged Sousuke's shoulder, "I might not know Mike much, but from what I've seen... I hope he'll leave something for me to blow up."
The tanks flooded as everyone left the torpedo room. Right now, everyone needed to focus on the final preparations before the morning.
Sousuke needed to go over a few more things in the M9 that he would be using. Right now he needed to trust Michael and get ready for tomorrow's launch.
As morning broke the TDD-1 crew and pilots rushed around the hanger and launch pad. Sousuke sat in his rooms looking at the floor. He was never so nervous about any operation until now.
This was it.
Operation Zeus was about to begin.
The infiltration was a success with none of the Venoms patrolling the island detecting them. The TDD-1 received targeting data on all AA weapons and even detected a few cloaked Venoms that were unmanned.
The plan was revised to include a launch of cruise missiles at the island followed by the insertion of AS units from booster launchers.
All forces would deploy and execute orders as described in the briefing. Once all units had landed Snake and Michael would move to the villa to complete the operation.
Sousuke stood up and took a deep breath. He grabbed his gloves and his Glock. Sousuke took another deep breath and pulled out a picture from his suit.
The one picture they had at the dance was still with him. It was a keepsake that Sousuke kept with him no matter where he went. At night when Nami was asleep, he would look at the picture of Kaname smiling with him and remember all that they did.
Everything they did was hard, tough and at times painful for him. Still, he shared all of it with someone. Someone that trusted him completely and viewed him as a person.
Not a soldier and not as Kashim.
To Kaname, Sousuke Sagara was the military idiot that caused more trouble than he should on a daily basis.
An identity that he valued more than anything else in his life.
Sousuke stuffed the picture in his suit and headed toward the hanger. He heard steps and saw Lt. Commander Bel coming up behind him.
The Lt. Commander looked at Sousuke, "Sgt. we expect a great deal from you."
"Yes sir." Sousuke answered adjusting his gloves.
Bel said nothing as he walked with the Sgt silently to the hanger.
They entered the hanger as the pilots and techs were running last minute checks on their units. Weapons had been loaded which included rifles, machine guns and heavy weapons including grenade and rocket launchers.
Sousuke had decided on using the shotgun cannon he used for the Arbalest. It was the only weapon he ever felt comfortable using in any AS battles.
"Sgt." Bel got Sousuke's attention.
Sousuke stood at attention to the SRT commander.
Bel studied the boy and knew that he was different than when he first met him. At first he was rash and reckless thinking he could handle everything thrown at him. Now, he was focused on what he wanted and not what others wanted from him. Sousuke was truly maturing into a fine man and a great soldier, "Sgt, you will be the first to launch and touch the ground."
Sousuke went rigid at that. He was the first one.
Before Sousuke could say anything Bel continued, "I think you earned this so just get into your unit and prep for launch."
Sousuke watched the Lt. Commander head for his unit. He turned and saw his unit being fitted for the attack. As Sousuke walked toward his own unit he could see the work done on the M9s.
On the right shoulder of each unit was either the Mithril or FOXHOUND emblem. He reached his unit and put his helmet. He climbed into the cockpit and adjusted the controls and frame to fit him comfortable.
The tech gave Sousuke the green light as the hatch closed and the AI came online. He took a deep breath wishing AL was still working.
Sousuke would admit that he missed his partner the ARX-7.
The cockpit screens came on as the computer ran through a diagnostic showing green light for everything.
"Well, Diehard, you ready for this?" Sousuke heard Weber through the radio.
"Affirmative." The unit moved as the booster pack was attached to its back. Sousuke had the suit stand up and moved to the elevator.
"Weber stay off the line, Sousuke needs to get ready for launch." Mao yelled over the radio. Apparently everyone but himself had known about the change in the launching order.
"Regardless," Sousuke knew that it was the voice of the Lt of the Hounds, "I want to see what this kid can do. I heard that you took out five Venoms just by yourself."
Sousuke was a little annoyed that everyone in FOXHOUND seemed to be calling him kid, "Yes sir." He recalled the Lambda Driver working at full power because of her help.
Sousuke squinted his eyes as the morning sun hit his face. He moved forward as the unit crouched down. The claps locked over the M9's feet as Sousuke waited for the countdown sequence.
The Lt. whistled, "You got talent kid. No wonder Snake thinks highly of you."
Sousuke's stomach tightened with that comment but he could not think about that right now!
He could see in the distance the island. Kaname was there and he was going to bring her back no matter what. Sousuke's only fear was Belial.
That monster completely outclassed everything Sousuke threw at it and nothing scratched it either, it truly was a monster. If Leonard had the suit than it could easily take out everyone in a few short minutes.
"Sgt?"
Sousuke snapped out his daze and could see Campbell on his HUB, "Yes ,sir, Colonel?"
"Two minutes till launch. Stand by."
Tessa came on, "Sgt. we will launch the cruise missiles before your suit leaves. After you launch the rest of the members will launch in thirty second intervals. Stay sharp out their."
Sousuke nodded, "Yes ma'am."
"Sgt. one more thing before we launch." Tessa cleared her throat, "Wolf has a message for you from the island."
Sousuke gripped the controls as he could hear the rumbling of the launcher underneath him.
"Forty-five seconds to launch." Sousuke heard the AI say.
"He says, 'Remember Lebanon. Check your fire.' End message. Good luck Sousuke."
The channel closed.
Sousuke just laugh at that thought remembering that it was Michael's fault for that one and he knew it. Still Sousuke knew where Michael was coming from with it.
"Thirty seconds till launch. Out loud countdown will begin at five seconds." The AI said.
Sousuke gripped the controls as the rumbling got louder. He could see his goal and it was in front of him.
"Launching cruise missiles!"
Sousuke looked at the sides and saw the missiles fire at the island.
"Fifteen seconds till launch." The AI announced.
Sousuke took another deep breath and drummed the controls slightly.
"5….4…..3…..2…..1"
"Urzu-7 launch!" Tessa yelled.
"Urzu-7 launching!!" Sousuke yelled as the rail launched him straight toward the island.
Operation Zeus had commenced!
Chapter 7 is done and is being reviewed and worked on. I have just started working on Chapter 8 so we are all on top of this! We hope to get this battle to you as soon as we can. We want to thank everyone who has read, reviewed and enjoyed this story. Expect more and alot this summer!
