So after long months of trials ranging from graduation, to GRE and even vacation and finding a job I finally have this chapter done. After getting a grasp on things I have started working on R in full swing. What I will be doing is outlining chapters to save time on writing and writers block. In case all you don't know, the FINAL FMP books will released this week on the 17th and the last one on August 20th. So I am hoping for like everyone else for a happy ending. Till than and after, I will work and finish Project R. I even have plans for a third book after R. It will not be as long as R but I have ideas flowing in it. Some other news is that a friend from Russia is working on translating Endgame and R into Russia for their FMP fansite. It is really cool that people overseas love it and it has gotten me back into writing. Also, I want to thank awolfofredmoon and his brother for helping edit the chapter. I don't own FMP or Metal Gear but I own Michael and other OC that I create. Enjoy.
"So they are in the base?" Weber asked looking at everyone in cramped cargo plane.
Snake got off the radio and pulled out a layout of the base. The images came from a blow-up satellite image just a few hours before Sousuke and Michael got into the base, "That's right, Michael will head to the lab and see what he can find. If possible he will destroy or steal any piece of research or information regarding Metal Gear or Amalgam's latest projects." Snake pointed on the projected layout of the base.
Mao studied the layout noting any possible secondary defenses, "What about Sousuke?"
Snake turned to her, "He will head to the mainframes and see what he can find. Hopefully he can open a window for us to download files."
Mao still had misgivings about Sousuke's involvement. This was completely different than anything he did before. Mao knew that he was a quick learner and had Snake watching his every move but she was still worried about him. She only hoped that things would go quietly until they arrived.
The plan involved two parts. The first was the infiltration of the labs by Sousuke and Michael. Both had their own priorities but shared the common goal of shutting down any radar or defense systems. Once all AA defenses were shut down and information gathered than a combination of SRT and Hound M9s would land and secure the base. If they moved quick enough they could get control of the base before Amalgam could react.
Mao felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Kurz, "Hey sis, don't worry about them. Sousuke can take care of himself."
Mao smiled a little, "I know he just almost died last time."
Kurz smiled again, "C'mon Sis, since when has Sousuke let us down?"
Mao shook his arm off and joined the others looking over the plans. They were using seven suits for this mission. Bel, Mao and Kurz were obvious choices as well as three high ranking officers of the Hounds. The seventh suit was the Laevatein armed and upgraded.
The suit was armed with a device called the 'Fairy Feather.' It was a device made by Kaname to jam the Lambda Driver completely. This was a huge advantage but with trade-offs. The Feather sucked up a great deal of energy meaning that it could overheat quickly. Amy Miller, the one who read and built the Feather, warned Sousuke that it could last maybe five minutes before it overheated the entire suit. The other drawback was that it jammed Sousuke's own Lambda Driver. Mao knew that would be a slight problem for Sousuke but not too big. Sousuke had been piloting suits since he was in nine.
Bel panned the image out showing the full environment, "We have several AA defenses along with the radar. Have we considered a way to disable those or are we going to drop short and wait."
"No we are still going with the original plan."
"A hard drop right on top of them is still crazy Snake." A Sgt from the FOXHOUND team blurted out, "Are those defenses going to be disabled?"
"Once a link is established, Otacon and the others will take over." Snake reassured everyone. Otacon and Wrath composed a team with mixed hackers and intelligence experts from Mithril and FOXHOUND. Hal, Otacon, spoke with the Command staff presented this plan. Hal argued that a team of hackers could offer on the spot assistance quickly and effectively. The team was completed several weeks ago and did not have enough time to really train. This was their first mission.
Mao knew that this was a daring but dangerous operation. Sousuke was alone in the facility with little chance for back-up. There was no telling what and how things could go wrong. The only thing she could do was trust Sousuke.
She wanted to trust Sousuke not to do anything stupid.
It was so easy to do something stupid.
The thought kept playing repeatedly in Sousuke's mind as he maneuvered through the corridors and halls. Sousuke took a glance at the camera above him. As long as Sousuke stayed under the camera he was safe in plain sight. A nifty trick he learned during the endless VR runs.
The camera turned away and Sousuke quickly moved to the next before the camera saw him. He pressed against the wall and took a quick look around him assessing the situation. No cameras or guards were present but Sousuke moved quickly. He needed to find the floor that had the archives before the transport got close.
Sousuke knew what he had to do but Trish's info did not give an exact layout. Sousuke had to find the archives on his own. There were people in this lab but not as many as Sousuke expected. Most of the people Sousuke saw were guards or test pilots walking around the halls.
Sousuke could have gone after the guards or pilots but decided on a scientist. If a scientist went missing than there was no real rush for alarm until someone found him. A guard or pilot missing could raise suspicions a lot quicker.
Sousuke heard some steps and ducked into a near room. He drew his gun and pressed against the wall. The steps stopped in front of the door and Sousuke tensed hearing the door open.
The door slid against him as Sousuke quickly stood up using the door as extra cover. The door closed and Sousuke quickly grabbed him from behind. He twisted the man's arm up and could not cry in pain with the silencer pressed against his skull. Sousuke dragged him away from the door and twisted the arm more.
"Listen," Sousuke tried in English, "Tell me where the archives are located!"
The man was silent for a second before Sousuke twist the arm harder, "Okay, Okay." The man answered in English, "They are located in B1, there is an elevator down this hall on the north end. Take that one to the elevator."
"ID." Sousuke said making sure the man he did not leave anything out.
The man, with his free hand, took an ID tag and gave it to Sousuke, "This will get you in. It gets you general access to a few areas. Not higher lever areas but you will get into the archives."
"What about the labs? Location and ID clearance." Sousuke demanded kept his hold tight on the man. He was getting nervous with each passing second. The longer he stayed here the quicker he would be spotted.
The man said something and Sousuke told him to repeat it, "The labs are on the north corner. You need level three clearance to get in but that will be tougher you-"
The man gasped with Sousuke doing a classic sleeper hold. The man tugged and quickly passed out. Sousuke dragged the man behind the desk and looked at him before walking away, "We are not amateurs."
Sousuke froze as the door started to opened. He quickly tried to get out of sight as the guard walked in.
"Dr. you-" The guard didn't finish his sentence as Sousuke pulled him by the shoulders into the room.
The guard slammed against the desk and kicked Sousuke back. Quickly getting to his feet, the guard reached his radio to call for back-up. Sousuke bounced right off the wall and right back at the guard. He reached for the radio but the guard grabbed his wrist pulling him-
Sousuke stopped the guard with a prepared fist across the jaw. The radio was feint to get the opening Sousuke needed.
The guard reeled from that hit as Sousuke threw him hard onto his back. The guard glanced up and Sousuke knocked him out.
Sousuke rose up trying to stop panting from the fight. It was a little tougher than he expected and would ready for it next time. Sousuke knew that if he had not moved quicker than the guard would have shot him or radio for help. Sousuke took a deep breath and focused on the matter right now. Thoughts like that had no place in this mission.
He dragged the guard from the floor and stuffed him into the locker. He grabbed the radio from the floor and pulled out the batteries from it. Sousuke threw the radio away and checked the Soliton radar.
The hallway was clear and Sousuke moved through the halls toward the elevator. Sousuke took this chance to report to Snake. Long range communication was risky until Mei Ling could properly encrypt the channels. The transport plane would keep in contact with the team and relay information with the command staff back in Alaska.
The resources for the operation were on loan thanks to a few contacts Mithril had with the Canadian military. The Command staff decided that any and all resources needed to be conserved and built up. The contacts from Mithril insured anonymity and cooperation while the operation was conducted.
Sousuke finally reached the elevator and called for it using the ID card. He pressed against the wall drawing his gun. The elevator beeped and the doors slide open.
Sousuke heard voices but kept quiet. Too many voices meant too many people could scream or run bring trouble with them. Instead Sousuke allowed them to simply walk out and slide into the elevator without even a sound.
The door closed and Sousuke pushed for B1. He exhaled a deep breath relived that the archives were that much closer.
Now that Sousuke had a minute he contacted Snake, "This is Metal Dragon." He still argued with keeping Uruz-7 for the mission but some argued for the change.
The name actually started from the myth and gossip surrounding Sousuke's success on Operation Zeus. Soldiers told others the shear power and dominance the Laevatein had on the battle field. With every stroke and swing an enemy was crushed at the Laevatein's feet without breaking a sweat. Even Mao got in on the gossip commenting about Sousuke holding and destroying three Behemoths simultaneously. She admitted in a report that 'it was a mountain being lifted from the Earth.' The term dragon came from Dragon's Breath. Dragon's breath was the most powerful substance with the ability to burn and destroy any material or metal. Sousuke's results spoke for themselves and the term Dragon spread around the base. The metal part was tagged on to truly give Sousuke a fearsome name.
The name spread as a joke but those that knew Sousuke it seemed a perfect fit. When Sousuke was focused on the battle enemies fell at his feet. It was a name that Mao and Kurz would tease Sousuke about when they first heard. It was not until Tessa spoke with Sousuke about the possible change.
After reviewing the files and recording, Tessa agreed with Sousuke that Liquid could be after him. The Tokyo attack could have been meant to draw him out considering the destruction Leonard wrecked. Kaname was just bait for Sousuke to follow.
Liquid or even Ocelot knew that he would follow after her blindly without thinking twice.
Despite this reason the name still did not sit well with Sousuke. In private conversation with Kurz, he admitted that the name was very synonymous with Gauron.
Gauron literally meant Nine Dragons stemming from his nine separate identities in the underworld. Metal was closely related to Iron which was Gauron's alias when working with Amalgam.
Sousuke hated having anything in common with that monster. Kurz had assured him that he was different from Gauron in every way. The name Gauron was always associated with death and murder wherever he went.
Kurz spoke proudly when he said, "When they speak of 'Metal Dragon", He waved his hands around for dramatic effect. Sousuke did not say anything but he went on, "They admire you Sousuke."
"Why would they admire me? I did my job." Sousuke answered.
Kurz shook his head wondering how to explain it to him. He knew Sousuke several years and knew him both personally and on the battlefield. Kurz knew Sousuke's abilities as an ally and as an enemy.
Kurz smiled and said, "Sousuke, when people start talking about what you did during Zeus it is not to be taken lightly." Kurz knew he had Sousuke's attention with that comment, "You saved a lot of lives on your own and turned the tide. When you do something big like that, people will take notice and talk."
Sousuke never understood what Kurz was talking about when he mentioned 'noticed'. Still, he knew that everyone was looking to him to play a major role. It was something he would not let people down.
"We are hearing you loud and clear Kid," Snake answered using his own name for Sousuke, "Status?"
Sousuke waited for the elevator to start moving before he continued. Once it started moving down Sousuke continued, "All things clear here. I have not been spotted and proceeding to the Archives."
Snake was silent for a moment and continued, "Good. Keep to the original objective but we have a slight change in plans."
"What is it?" Sousuke hoped that it was nothing dealing with Snake's team. Any kind of delay in the raid could jeopardize his and Michael's safety.
Snake continued, "While on his way to the labs, Wolf spotted a hanger with a few Venoms."
Sousuke quickly put the pieces together, "Want me to hijack one of them?"
In Snake's voice Sousuke could almost hear the smile, "Go do what you do best but everyone on the plane has a request."
Sousuke waited for Snake. The elevator doors slid open and Sousuke waited a second. He peaked over the corner seeing no cameras or guards. Sousuke quickly double checked the radar and drew his Glock. The archives were not much further but a trap was still possible.
Snake came over the Codec, "Save some for them."
Sousuke smirked and walked through the halls, "Roger." The channel closed and it was back to work. Sousuke could only hope the Michael was doing fine on his own.
Michael could not believe the power of the exo-suit. The Gene-therapy gave him greater strength but the suit brought out that full potential. In the past Michael used nano-machines to control and limit that power. Too long in that state did more harm than good to his body. The memory of Tokyo, Paris and the Island assault were still very fresh in his mind.
The fitting went well and the neural link to his brain and nano-machines still needed some tinkering but nothing too dangerous.
The helmet was a real piece of work. It had a screen like a computer that came equipped with night vision and IR settings. He had the soliton radar installed on his left arm with a battery meter for the stealth camo.
Right now it was charging since moving through the halls and onto the roof. The clear night sky would make insertion easier for Snake's team but that depended on both himself and Sousuke.
Looking around he was able to locate a large hanger and relayed that to Snake. Communication would need to be limited between Michael and Sousuke to make moving around easier. There was no telling who and how the enemy could be listening.
Michael turned his focus back to finding the research lab. His best guess would that it be close to the hanger. Looking over the ledge it was a small drop to the bottom but the quickest way down.
Michael stood on the ledge and look over. He took a deep breath and activated the camo as he slowly fell over. Michael felt the wind rushing and pulled his legs in rolling toward the ground. Without even realizing it his feet touched the ground and he dashed off.
Michael had only ten minutes of camo power before it reached zero. When it reached zero, it would take thirty minutes to charge.
Rushing from corner to corner he quickly found the entrance to the lab. It had to be a lab with the large number of white coats standing around a door. Michael watched and waited for the doors to open.
A man in a coat slide a card and the doors beeped and started to open. Michael took a deep breath and took slow steps to the doors. As each member entered, Michael quickened his pace until the last person had entered the labs. Michael sprinted quickly and just barely made it before the doors closed.
Michael looked around and found a small corner to hide. He deactivated his camo and reported quickly to Snake.
Michael again was amazed at the speed and power the suit offered. Almost a year ago, Dr. Hunter had proposed this project to the command staff. Hunter explained that though the project was risky, it offered a fantastic opportunity for spying and infiltration. A soldier with heighten reflexes, speed and strength offered FOXHOUND an advantage that it needed in these dangerous times.
When the Colonel discovered the existence of Black Technology and Whispered, FOXHOUND's operations would have to be able to move on a dime to intercept and protect these individuals. Any individual that fell into the hands of any enemy could quickly tip the balance of power.
Dr. Hunter's project was quickly commissioned and called 'Project: Iron Man.' It was a name that accurately described Hunter's project.
A suit that magnified the user's body to superhuman levels was the Iron Man armor. At the start of the project about fifty people were selected from FOXHOUNDS best to be apart of this project.
Michael was the only one to volunteer for the project. Many were upset about it but could not argue with his success after only one mission.
The trials ranged from physical to mental trials to even examinations to find the perfect body for the experiments. All of these tests were meant to find the correct person with the right mental, physical and genetic traits to maximize the project.
After three months of trials, Michael was selected. His physical and mental examinations were nothing special but Hunter found something interesting from her notes. Michael's body was still growing which offered a useful advantage. Dr Hunter explained that Michael's body could adjust easier and quicker with the drastic changes Gene Therapy would give. Michael's body was at the right age where he can get the most out of the Therapy without any life threatening side effects.
Almost everyone was not comfortable using Michael as a guinea pig in this project. Everyone argued that even Hunter did not know the long term effects it would have on him. The only person on his side was Mei Ling and she offered a condition. Mei Ling was the closest to Michael for various reasons but knew him better than anyone else. She and Hunter agreed that Michael could proceed with the experiments only if Mei Ling felt he could handle it.
It was a safe measure to have third party involved. There would be no rush or hurry until everyone was satisfied he was ready. This did not stop Michael from fighting with Mei Ling about it but he knew that she was right.
Michael looked at his meter and saw it at thirty-five percent full. Taking a peak around a corner he saw no one near him or around him from the radar. Michael slowly advanced down the hall and stopped at a corner.
Michael saw two people going over some notes and activated his camo. Taking peak over the corner he heard them in English talking about something.
"Yea, I heard that he is not happy about things." The first one said. He had blonde hair and spoke with a heavy accent like he was from Britain.
"What do you expect? After what that suit did on the island," The other guy with black hair spoke perfect english, "I wonder what he is more upset about, the fact his suit is not so special anymore or that he could really lose."
Michael knew what they were talking about. He continued to hope that this was going somewhere.
The blonde spoke again, "Whatever the reason he pays us to do his work. We are doing all we can but it is still not enough." He paused and started to drink something.
"It does explain those two kids slaving on his suit night and day. I heard that the other two were killed because they did not meet his 'requests'." The black haired added.
Michael had already contacted Snake with that information. They must have been talking about the other Whispered still missing. This was top priority!
Michael heard the two starting to leave and started to chase after them. As he turned the corner he stopped on his heel and quickly jumped behind the corner.
Two Alastors were guarding an entrance with a camera watching them closely. Michael's camo hummed off and he peaked over the corner.
Both Alastors were wearing trench coats. Leonard was here!
The door the Alastors were guarding was another locked door that required a key to get in. However, stealing one from someone was out of the question. The Alastors and camera's would see everything perfectly.
The Alastor's turned toward Michael. He knew that they must have heard the hum from the camo and were going to investigate.
Michael heard the footsteps slowly moving toward him. Michael quietly rushed down the hall and back into the closet he found. He opened the door quickly and crouched into a nearby corner behind a yellow cart. The black and gray would hopefully hide him enough from the Alastor.
He heard the heavy footsteps approach the door and stop. Michael controlled his breathing as the Alsator stopped in front of the door.
The door opened slowly as the Alastor took a scan of the room. Michael hoped he was not using IR or nightvision which could easily reveal his position.
The Alastor closed the door and Michael was relieved and called Snake, "Snake, I have a problem."
Snake came on over the channel, "So what else is new? That fancy armor of yours too much?"
Michael ignored the comment and continued, "I have two Alastors guarding a restricted door with a camera overhead. Anything you can do?"
"Negative, hold position right now. When Dragon can access the network than we can help you but-"
Michael heard something over the intercom, "Hold on."
"REPEAT, POSSIBLE BREACH IN THE HANGER. UNKNOWN FIGURE HAS ENTERED A RESTRICTED AREA. ALL GUARDS AND TEAMS ARE ON LEVEL 1 ALERT. USE DEADLY FORCE IF NECESSARY. ALL WORKERS ARE TO REPORT-"
Michael ignored the rest and went back to Snake, "So we might have a problem that Sousuke should be aware of right now."
Snake was wondering if he should kill Michael before or after this mission.
Sousuke was already on Snake's side. Michael was going to pay dearly for this screw up. He always rushed things without thinking or seeing things clearly and rationally. Sousuke would admit that his approach had worked a few times but thought that a few years with FOXHOUND would calm that down.
He was wrong.
Sousuke was already out of the elevator holding his silenced Glock at the ready. He had already avoided a few patrols and was near a surveillance room. Taking control of this room would make moving around much easier.
Sousuke looked through the glass window on the door and saw only one guard. He took a quick glance on his radar and saw only one person in there.
Sousuke's started to think about the best way to take the guard out. Walking right into the room would either get him shot or another alarm would go off. The last thing both needed was the entire base on lockdown with armed guards moving through the halls.
Sousuke pondered his options. Holstering his gun Sousuke pressed against the wall and knocked on the door two times.
Snake's explanation of simplicity was still fresh in Soususke's memory. Hopefully this would work the way he planned.
The door opened, "Hey what do-"
Sousuke grabbed the guard by the shirt and pushed him back. He rushed to into room and the guard was on his feet.
He pointed his rifle at him about the shoot Sousuke. Sousuke grabbed the rifle and swung his body as hard his could to the throw the guard to the ground.
The guard hit the floor but quickly recovered getting free of the strap and getting to his feet.
Sousuke was moving toward him swinging his fist at him. The guard grabbed it and swung Sousuke into the wall.
Sousuke grunted and quickly pushed back from the wall and twisted his arm free. Sousuke, already close to the guard, slammed his elbow across the guards face gaining the advantage. He grabbed the guard's shirt and arm and attempted to throw him to the floor.
The guard countered by throwing his weight into his legs. Sousuke could not throw him and the guard slammed his head into Sousuke's.
Sousuke stumbled back and the guard punched Sousuke across the face several times. Regaining his senses Sousuke blocked both fists and kicked the guard back.
Before the guard could counter Sousuke started sending his own furry of punches. The guard staggered for a moment. Grabbing the guards arm and shirt and slammed him against the wall. Another time and the guard was finished.
Sousuke wiped the blood from his face and tried to catch his breath. He always cursed the constant training from Snake but know was thankfully for it.
Sousuke dragged the guard from the wall ignoring some of the blood he left and stuffed him into a locker. He grabbed the guards ammo and the SIG 516. It was a military and civilian rifle but good enough for close quarters battles.
Sousuke turned his attention to the surveillance cameras and the TVs. He took a seat in front of the monitors and started looking for the archives. Sousuke's search located the archives just next door to the surveillance. There were two guards patrolling the archives walking around each other.
Sousuke studied the surveillance trying to find the best way to sneak in. He watched one of them reach for the radio and spoke into it.
"Archives to surveillance, what is the status of intruders?"
Sousuke turned around hearing the radio going off from the locker. The radio was coming from the locker where he stuffed the body.
"Hey! If you are falling asleep again I'll-"
Sousuke already had the radio and could not believe his luck. One of them was coming to him.
Sousuke turned to the monitors and saw one of them was already one his way. Quickly running to the door and grabbed the rifle Sousuke waited for him to come.
Sousuke raised the butt of the gun up and pressed against the wall. The door opened and Sousuke slammed the butt of gun against the guards face.
The guard fell to the ground still trying to figure out what just happened. Before he could get up Sousuke finished him with another hit.
The third guard was a little smarter with his weapon at the door. Sousuke grabbed the rifle and jerked him straight in. The guard was dispatched with the butt slamming against the back of his neck.
Sousuke hid the bodies and went into the archive rooms. He was not sure how long until the rest of the patrols started to radio in. His guess was soon.
Sousuke opened a channel to Snake, "This is Dragon, I am in the archives."
"Okay" Snake spoke over the channel, "Switch frequency to 141.12. He will tell you the rest."
"He?" Sousuke pondered as he switched his codec to the channel Snake gave, "This is Dragon?"
"Sgt." The voice came over the radio, "I am happy to see you have gotten this far without my help."
Sousuke shook his head as he walked through the archives trying to figure out what he was seeing. They were ten feet tall servers that he would see at any military or computer building. He still had no idea what he was suppose to find.
"Okay AL," Sousuke admitted, "What am I suppose to do?"
"Take the PDU that Otacon gave you. The PDU acts as a code breaker and transmitter. Once the codes are broken, it will establish a link with me. Once the link is secure with our own codes, Otacon's team will take over."
Sousuke took out the PDU that Dr. Emmerich had given him. He expressed great interest in getting it back in one piece. It looked and was the size of any common PDU but this was FOXHOUND.
There was no telling what this device could really do.
Sousuke pulled the device out and saw the USB cord attached the end. Sousuke called AL again, "That is fine and dandy AL but where am I suppose to plug it in?"
"It is a USB Sgt. Plug it anywhere and it should work. Turn it on and open the Connections icon. That will start up the process once you plug it in."
Sousuke cursed again as AL closed the channel. He stopped in front of one of the terminals and found the USB, "I just wish he told me that in the first place." He turned the device on and let it start up.
Once it was on, Sousuke plug the cable in and clicked on the 'Connections' icon. Sousuke watched the device go through a series of screens and messages and did not understand.
Sousuke called, "AL getting this?"
It was silent for a moment and AL came on, "The codes are being broken Sgt. Please wait a few minutes until we hear from Dr. Emmerich."
"Just hurry up AL, I don't know how long until the guards become suspicious."
"Please be patient Sgt. Otherwise, this will not get done." AL shot back.
"Just-" Al closed the channel leaving a frustrated Sousuke.
All Sousuke could do was watch for guards and the PDU. He could only hope Michael could stay out sight for just a few minutes longer. Sousuke was feeling tense with the mission. He was use to having back-up with Kurz, Mao and the rest of the SRT and PRT.
Now he was alone handling his part of the mission just like Michael was doing. The only thing he could do was keep out of sight as long as possible.
Hopefully, Dr. Emmerich would find the locations of the whispered in the base.
Sousuke prayed that it would lead to Kaname. He was getting tired.
"Okay, we broke through the firewalls and so far have not raised any alarms." One FOXHOUND tech reported.
"Second, third and fourth codes are broken. We have access to all the security cameras around the labs and most of the base. All we have left are the outside cameras and hallways where Dragon is located." Another Intelligence worker from Mithril reported.
The entire hacking and computer staff was working at cracking the bases defenses and controlling the security system.
Otacon looked up from his terminal, "Okay keep the cameras on a rotating system. Make sure that the time and date are still the same. Make a file that every five to ten minutes that someone is either walking in or leaving. The more normal it appears, the easier it will be to attack."
Hal, Otacon, was impressed with the staff he had pull together. It was a combination of FOXHOUND computer techs and experts that survived the attack. After the attack, they work from different posts around the world keeping tabs on suspected Amalgam targets and business. After Zeus, most were recalled back Ghost Fox for debriefing and to assist Hal in this new division.
Wraith, surprisingly, got a hold of a number of Mithril analysts and hackers that survived Amalgam's worldwide assault. Each had formed independent cells to find other Mithril survivors and coordinate their own attacks on Amalgam.
Wraith's connections helped bring these cells together and form an spy network that gave spot-on field reports.
When Wraith had heard about Dr. Emmerich's plans, she joined him in creating a joint intelligence division that could hack, find and prove new reports on the spot.
So far, the division had not disappointed.
They now had complete control over the security system and were minutes away from shutting down the AA and radar system.
Wraith looked up from a pair of analysts, "We have 90% of the files copied. In a few minutes we will have it all."
Hal walked over and looked at the data, "What about the two Whispered Mich- I mean Wolf reported?"
The analysts, a man from South Africa, was searching the files, "We have one close to Dragon. Give me one minute to pull up the file."
The screen changed to a Middle Eastern teenager no older than Sousuke, "His name is Malik Taqi from Pakistan. He went missing several days after the attack from Amalgam." The analyst read through the file, "Malik is quite skilled in all things mechanical and electrical. He has the ability to look at something once, take it apart and put it back together and actually make it better. An observer from Pakistan watched Malik take apart a jeep from World War II that was broken and actually had it working. He also won a race with that jeep. Amalgam had him working on various projects ranging from repairs to Venom modifications in the cockpit."
"Location?" Wraith asked.
"Basement level 2 just below Dragon."
Otacon reported this to the Campbell that would than relay it to Snake and than Sousuke.
Wraith turned her attention back to Malik, "Make sure all the camera's are on a replay and get him an elevator the moment he gets their."
The analysts went to work on his new orders.
"Miss Wraith, we have located the second Whispered. She is located in the labs not far from Wolf." A young analyst with red hair from FOXHOUND called out.
"Miss?", Wraith muttered realizing she was not that old, "What do you have?" She would deal with that one later.
The analysts went over the file as Dr. Emmerich came to join her. They pulled up a picture of an attractive brown eyed blonde haired teenager. Like Malik she was no older than seventeen, "From Russia its Sasha Petrova, disappeared from her school sometime before the attack. Police reported that her family was killed and that she was missing. No trace of her was found until now." The analyst read through the file, "She is skilled in computer programs and simulations. Her programs have a 99% accuracy to the real thing. Sasha also has a high learning rate in VR simulations even creating 3D programs overnight."
"Location?" Hal asked still having the headset with the Campbell and Tessa on the line.
The analyst ran through the tapes, "Last location was in Lab level 2. Wolf is the closest but we have another problem."
"And that is?" Wraith demanded.
"Codenamed Silver is in that lab with her."
Hal and Wraith sighed in frustration. They hoped that Michael would keep his emotions in check. Rescuing the Whispered girl Sasha was more important.
Hal was already relaying the information to the Colonel. He would make sure that Michael kept to his mission. It amazed Hal how different and similar Michael and Sousuke were in personality and attitude. He wondered what would happen if it was Sousuke and not Michael.
Wraith started to give orders, "Get him access into the labs and run the same routine with the cameras. What about the Alastors?"
The analysts shook her head, "They operate independent of each other. Someone would have to be right on it to shut it down."
Wraith shook her head. Hopefully Michael would know how to hide bodies that big.
Hal turned to Wraith, "They have their orders and are on the move."
"What about Silver?" Wraith inquired.
"Let Snake deal with that."
Wraith believed Otacon on that one. Snake seemed to be the only one who could really control the two. The talk around the base was Snake beat them in mere seconds.
They were still rookies compared with Snake's experience and past success. The operation was in good hands with him as their superior.
Wraith joined Hal as the crew worked through the files and monitored the two operatives. A group of people were already working through Amalgam's classified files and black projects. Hopefully, something would lead them to Metal Gear.
"God, I hope those two don't blow it." Wraith commented.
Hal smiled at her comment, "Heroes always face hardships."
Wraith looked at him confused. She knew from talk around the base that he was a major Otaku. It was embarrassing that a man with his skills would be obsessed in such childish things, "And they are heroes?"
"C'mon, they fight, grow, lose but still keep pressing forward. So, I think they fit the profile."
Wraith sighed wishing she had some duct tape, "Next thing you will be saying that they are like Goku."
Hal turned to her and whispered, "How do you know that name?"
Wraith's face got red realizing what she just said. She grabbed Otacon by the shirt and pulled him down. Wraith leaned forward and whispered in his ear with menace in each word, "Say anything and I'll show you what I learned in North Korea."
Hal raised a hand in defeat as she threw him back. He chuckled nervously not wanting to invite more trouble from the female agent.
They both turned to a monitor going through a set of projects sent to them from the analysts.
Hal leaned over as she worked through the files, "You know I have the whole series if-"
"Don't!" Wraith cut him off raising her finger to close the subject once and for all.
"Keep to surveillance and watch for an opportunity to grab the girl. Your best bet might be to grab her once the strike begins." Snake explained over the radio.
Michael was dragging the last piece of the Alastor into the closet. Both Alastors were now cut up into pieces and stuffed into the closet. Once he got the okay to strike, it was all a simple matter of striking simultaneously. Michael knew that the blade on his sword was a piece of work but it cut anything like it was butter. It made him wonder what else Amalgam could create.
Michael doubled checked the radio and saw no one. It seemed that everyone's attention was in Lab lever 2 which made things easier for him.
"Got it Snake," Michael responded as he double checked his pistol.
"One other thing Wolf," Snake continued, "If Silver is in that lab than just observe. Remember you objective."
Michael moved out of the closet and into the halls. His stealth meter was not fully charged which still presented a problem. There was a way to give more power but knew that command was not going to like it, "Understood Snake. Besides, Silver belongs to Dragon."
"You are right about that." Snake sounded relieved that Michael knew his objective.
"However Snake I have a request." Michael knew what was coming.
"Go ahead."
"I don't have enough power for the camo. I am requesting permission to divert power from the radar and codec to the camo."
Snake was silent for a moment, "Request denied!"
"Snake," Michael explained, "I have enough power for maybe fifteen minutes. That is not enough time to keep surveillance with what you want me to do."
"You are trained in stealth and evasion. This is no-"
"I can move in forests and in urban centers. This is different Snake, I am going to be in a lab full scientists and guards. I am not you Snake!" Michael argued.
Snake was silent for a moment and than came back on, "I just got word from Command they are also saying denied Major."
"Snake, I know protocol about these kinds of things. This is different from anything else we have done before. You are asking me to perform tight surveillance on several subjects in a crowded and heavily guarded area. If you want me to do my job and get this done the right way, than you need to fulfill this request! Tell command that!" Michael yelled. He agreed with Snake that he was trained extensively in things like this. However, this was different than what he was use to. Plus, he was wearing an exoskeleton.
Michael waited for Snake's response and waited a few moments. He would give it just a little bit longer and go ahead with it. Disobeying orders again would result in severe punishments.
"I don't like you being out of touch with you or the radar going offline," Snake came back online, "Do you remember the emergency channel."
The emergency channel was just how it sounded. If there were drastic or extreme situations like airstrikes or advancing armies, the channel would be broadcast on all frequencies on the codec.
"If I get that message than I'll open the codec immediately." Michael knew that it would take under five minutes to power up the codec. Hopefully it would not come to that.
"Good, however Command is not comfortable with it. Keep your head down and avoid trouble as much as you can. You know she is not happy with it."
Michael knew that this would make her uncomfortable but he did not have a lot of choices. If they wanted to get that whispered this was a risk he would have to take.
"She asked me to tell you 'No wind, No waves.' She said you would understand it if you thought about it." Snake closed the channel and Michael was left alone.
Michael shook his head as he finished diverting power from the radar and codec. Mei Ling was always offering advice with her proverbs. It was her own way of trying to keep things light-hearted.
Michael walked through the door and started advancing through the halls. His meter was full charged giving him at least 1 hour in full stealth.
Michael took note of his surroundings and moved through the hall as quietly and slowly as he could. There were a few people moving around but Michael was able to move around without having too much attention on himself.
After a few minutes the halls expanded into a huge hanger likes structure. Michael hoped that the cameras were recording everything that he was seeing.
It was a full assembly and testing plant all sorts of people. He saw scientists, engineers and workers around different projects that ranged from all shapes and sizes. Michael was surprised that despite the scale there was still a rather small work force. He could only guess that since Zeus, Liquid had started silencing people. If he silenced people like those they found in Seattle, than everyone was just expandable.
Michael moved past some people working on various guns and grenades and noticed the two large Arm Slaves. They looked like Venoms but there were several things different about them. The bodies and arms were much sleeker but with bulkier arms.
Michael quietly moved to the two Venoms and watched the crews who were constructing it. He was thankfully no one was moving around too much. Michael hoped that the archives had this information but quickly took note of some information.
It was called the 'Eligor' and from the Lambda Driver readings it was a very powerful machine. How powerful, he was not sure. Capturing these suits could be a option if he had more experience in piloting. His only hope would be to find someway to destroy them. That could offer a decent distraction if he needed a quick escape. All he needed was something to blow it up.
Michael than turned his attention to a group of people working on the Alastors. He took notice that they were becoming smaller, sleeker and more advanced. As he got closer he noticed that they were being armed and outfitted with different close and long range weapons.
Some were being outfitted with different guns that ranged from machine to even high caliber rifles.
Michael was surprised that one was being fitted with a rocket or grenade launcher in its hand. Leonard was definitely busy redesigning his own works. Michael grew worried wondering what he was outfitting Belial with.
Michael turned his attention to several Alastors being armed with various blades and spears. The blades would eject underneath the wrists. Whether, the blades were as strong as Fox's own sword he did not know. All he could do was hope that they had that information.
Michael moved through the halls and saw that he used fifteen minutes of power. As he moved through the halls he saw a massive rifle and various weapons for Arm Slaves.
Chain-guns were being re-modified and becoming smaller as well as various rifles and shotguns.
Michael gazed at the massive rifle on the opposite side of the chain-gun. It was a third the length of Sousuke's 150 millimeter gun on the ARX-8. No one was working on it which gave Michael a chance to find out what it was.
It was an experiment to take the power of the rail-gun and downsize it for Arm Slaves. It fired metal projectiles at massive speed and power but the magnets were still unstable. Michael made sure that this would be destroyed.
Looking all around him, Michael saw all the weapons and tools being created or modified. These were all state of the art weapons using Black Technology. Reports that he read relating to Hong Kong confirmed that Amalgam had a mass production line for the Cordals and Venoms. FOXHOUND's greatest fear came alive when Mithril reported that several Behemoths had struck Merida Island. Those weapons were mass produced and Amalgam still pumped out new and more powerful machines each and everyday.
This was all Liquids goal to 'unifying the world' as he proclaimed back in Paris. How could he unify the world if the entire world was at war?
Michael heard some noises that where mechanical and followed the sound. He crossed into another part of the lab that was smaller when almost no machines.
Michael turned to the center of the room and felt his heart tighten and eyes get wide.
Belial was in a crouched position with wires and cables coming from the back. They were all connected to several computers that were doing tests.
Michael had hit the jackpot, if the insertion team could hit fast enough they could destroy Belial once and for all. This would drastically cut Amalgam's power and would be a satisfying blow to Leonard personally.
People were starting to shuffle around something or someone. Michael moved closer and started to hear. Someone was yelling about something and he knew who it was.
"What do you mean it is not accurate!"
Michael had another thirty minutes left on his camo. If he was going to find Sasha, it would be near Silver.
"Sir," One of the scientists addressed, "the results of those simulations will not be one-hundred percent."
Michael saw that it was Leonard. He had to be running VR simulations between Belial and Laevatein. Michael was indeed impressed with the Sousuke's display on the island. A rematch with Leonard's Belial would be fun to watch.
"I want them to be the real thing." Leonard said going through the results again.
Michael moved closer and saw that Leonard was not the same. He was not the cold and suave prick he confronted at the U.N. He seemed more frustrated but much colder. Michael was surprised with what he was watching!
Leonard had the scientist by the throat and threw him onto a desk. Papers and computers scattered around as the man struggled to breath. Leonard's eyes were still cold and almost seemed to be enjoying it, "Maybe I should get a new head of computers and finish you." Leonard smiled watching the man gasp for air, "What good are you if you can't do the job we hired you?" Leonard pushed the man's head back as he kept struggling to breath.
"We will run it again sir!" One of the engineers rushed out, "We will run it again."
Leonard casually let the man go and walked over behind Belial. The man fell off the desk trying to catching his breath.
Michael moved forward trying to keep up with Silver. His observation about the programs had to be at the ARX-8. Leonard almost seemed desperate to make sure he could defeat Sousuke.
Michael found Leonard standing next to a blonde girl. The girl had to be Sasha! She was wearing a ponytail and moving at such a rapid pace. Whatever Sasha was working on she was deep into it.
"Well!" Leonard demanded.
Sasha turned from her computer and glared at Silver, "The program is running perfectly. The results are spotless." She spoke in with a thick Russian accent.
"They are not one-hundred percent." Leonard explained, "Run it again and I want these factors in the simulations."
Sasha nodded and only seemed to get angrier the more Leonard talked.
Michael knew that this could get ugly. If he did not get what he wanted, than Sasha would be dead.
Michael looked over at the rail gun getting an idea. The rail gun was rather unstable at full power.
Sousuke was already on the basement level when Michael cut his radio. Snake filled him in on everything and he was nervous about the whole thing. Years of working with Michael had shown he had a talent for success and destruction.
Sousuke could see some resembles with his own actions but that was different. He moved through the halls with the SIG 516 strapped on his back and four clips on his belt. His Glock and silencer were enough to mission the job.
Sousuke was nervous. Something about this level made him nervous and it did not settle with him. Normally he was confident and in control on any mission but something was not right.
The security cameras were under Otacon's control and guard presence was minimal. Sousuke ducked behind a corner watching a guard walked past him. He waited and minute and watched the guard move into another room.
Sousuke's feeling was not about guards or cameras, it was something else. Something was just not right.
The codec rang and Sousuke quickly answered, "This is Dragon."
"Sgt. Sagara," It was AL, "We have your location and I am sending you the exact location of Mr. Malik, codenamed, 'Magic Rug'. The yellow dot on the radar shows the location."
Sousuke ducked behind a hallway and looked at his radar. He expanded the layout and saw that he was not far from Malik, "Thanks AL, put Snake on."
"Affirmative Sgt." AL answered and switched the Snake, "What is the problem Kid? Cold feet already?"
Sousuke shook his head and continued moving through the hall. The closer he got to Malik the more nervous he got. It was not like him to this caught up in emotions but he could not shake this dark cloud hanging over him.
"I hate to say this Snake, but something is not right. It is just something I cannot explain." Sousuke explained hoping Snake would understand.
"Yea I know what you mean Dragoon. This is not caution but rather your basest instinct." Snake explained.
Sousuke listened to Snake knowing he had more experience than anyone else. He thought for a moment and knew the feeling, "Danger."
"Exactly," Snake explained, "Whatever is waiting you have to face alone." Snake closed the channel leaving a nervous Sousuke.
This feeling was more than Sousuke had expected. He looked at his hands and saw them shaking slightly. Gripping his fingers into a fist he took a deep breath and tried to calm down. The pressure was getting to him but he had to stay focused. Snake, Tessa, and everyone depended on him succeeding.
'I don't care what you need to do to get to me just come and get me Sousuke.' Kaname's words were still just as strong when she said them.
Sousuke took another deep breath and moved down the hall. Moving through he knocked out a stationary guard and hid him quickly.
Sousuke finally reached Malik's location. He drew the silenced Glock and the door was unlocked. Sousuke thanked Otacon and reluctantly Wraith for getting control of the security.
The door slid open and Sousuke slid into the room. The gun was up as he scanned the room. No guards but knew the room had computers and a large amount of mechanical tools and parts scattered around.
Sousuke saw a plastic screen and someone working in there. He was very tall with black hair wearing a muscle shirt and pants. He was working on something completely unaware of Sousuke.
This had to be Malik.
Sousuke walked up to the screen and knocked on the glass.
Malik turned around startled by Sousuke. He knocked tools and parts of the floor as he caught his breath, "WHO ARE YOU! DID HE SEND YOU!" Malik shouted in Arabic.
Sousuke put his gun away, "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah." Sousuke answered in perfect Arabic and nodded to Malik. It was a customary greeting in Pakistan to say 'assalamu' and nod.
Malik calmed down and answered, "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh." He nodded to Sousuke and seemed to calm down.
Sousuke hoped that the traditional greeting would show he was a friend, "I work with Mithril Malik, I am here to help."
Malik smiled and sighed happily, "Praise God, the things they have me doing and working are too much. What I am making will kill people!"
Sousuke was watching Malik. He was getting excited and tense which would make things harder, "Malik, you need to calm down. What have they been making you do?"
"Various things," Malik explained, "The work has ranged from working of those Venoms and Cordals and modifying existing Arm Slaves. My modifications have made older models faster, stronger and more moveable than anything companies can do."
"How long have you been working with them?" Sousuke asked. Any information he could get was invaluable.
"I do not know maybe a few months. I have been moving from one place to-" Malik froze looking behind Sousuke.
Before Sousuke could draw his gun he heard a familiar click behind him.
"Sgt. Sagara," Ocelot said, "I am surprised to see you again."
Sousuke raised his hands and recognized why he felt danger. Otacon and his team would never be able to find Ocelot. He was a specter and would come out when he wanted.
Sousuke kept looking forward, "Ocelot, I see you are still around. Where are your men?"
Ocelot smiled, "Turn around boy. You look different." As Sousuke turned around Ocelot still kept that same smile, "You have matured my friend. I see that FOXHOUND has kept you busy. I am impressed that you got this far."
Sousuke looked at Ocelot keeping his mind under control, "Things keep changing and I need to keep up."
Ocelot smiled and pulled his gun back. He twirled it into his holster, "Things do keep changing boy. More than you know and I want to talk."
Sousuke lowered his hands and thought about reaching for his gun. His hand twitched and-
Ocelot's Colt was already drawn and a few inches from Sousuke's face, "I thought 'he' would tell you that I am still the fastest."
Sousuke remembered who he was facing, "You want to talk? Are you sure you don't want to take me to Liquid?"
Ocelot looked at him surprised which stunned Sousuke. He grew nervous as Ocelot started to laugh.
Ocelot's laugh was low and he only smiled shaking his head, "So, 'she' is still around. I cannot believe it."
"Who is she?" Sousuke demanded.
Ocelot looked at him still smiling, "You are not ready for that information but you are right. Liquid is after you," Ocelot pointed at Sousuke, "which is why I want to talk to you."
Sousuke still did not believe Ocelot. Everything about the man was a mystery with no clear goals or objective, "Why should I believe anything you tell me? First you tell us that Amalgam wants Chidori but than they really want me. If you wanted me than why not take me? Why her!" Sousuke yelled. All his frustrations and anger toward Liquid for jerking him like a dog on a leash.
"Speaking of Miss Kaname," Ocelot raised his finger, "I would get to her quickly. She has been more depressed than usual. Of course someone of in her position would take the easy way out and slit their wrists." Ocelot smiled watching Sousuke, "I wonder if you will get their in time."
Sousuke wanted to tackle Ocelot but he could make no move. Taking one step meant a bullet in the heart or head.
"Of course Leonard keeps making his advances on her and I have to say that his getting more aggressive if you know what I mean." Ocelot kept pulling the right strings on the young man.
Sousuke's rage kept building with only two desires. The first was to kill Ocelot and the second to deal with Leonard 'properly'. Leonard still made his attractions toward Kaname well-known to Sousuke and it only made him hate Leonard more. He hated himself for not protecting Kaname from that man. He had to find her before something happened!
Ocelot waved his hand dismissing the topic, "However that is your problem and NOT what I wanted to discuss." Ocelot walked around Sousuke as his boots made a clicking sound, "Did you ever wonder why Liquid wants you?"
"I can control the Lambda Driver. What else does he need?" Sousuke answered. His focus had to shift to what Ocelot was talking about
Ocelot smiled, "You are correct but there is more to that. You do recall the incident with A-21 correct?"
How could Sousuke forget that one. He and everyone else barely made it out against that massive machine. It was a literal, David vs. Goliath, "Why are you telling me this?" Sousuke was still wary of listening to Ocelot.
Ocelot shook his head and cocked his head at Sousuke, "I have my reasons Kashim. You should ask Syn Symetry the next time you see him."
Sousuke bit his tongue and let Ocelot continue.
"In the initial tests on the Lambda Driver we found a problem. Controlling the Driver was extremely difficult because we had no idea how it worked. That is where we came up with a drug cocktail. We experimented on that kid A-21 had captured and it confirmed our results." Ocelot explained.
"He was able to control to Lambda Driver but it caused extreme stress to brain and outbursts of psychotic attacks." Sousuke remembered reading the report on the Takuma.
"Than you noticed the problem with prolong use of the cocktail. Soldiers who consistently used it were useless in a matter of weeks. They would either lose their minds and kill themselves or become drug addicts and overdose on it." Ocelot lost his smile, "There were different cases that we could not understand. Your friend Gauron and Gates, who piloted the red Venom in Hong Kong, used the drug but could withstand the side effects." Ocelot explained.
"They are not my friends," Sousuke pointed out, "If the drug causes psychotic episodes than it does not matter to them. They were already crazed-killers."
Ocelot shrugged his shoulders agreeing with Sousuke, "We believed that but without bodies we cannot confirm that. We have you to thank for that Sgt."
Sousuke stood silent still keeping his eyes on Ocelot.
"Still there was one other who could pull out the full power of the Lambda Driver without drugs and was not a cold-blooded killer." Ocelot pointed at Sousuke, "Your display in Hong Kong impressed Liquid a great deal. You destroyed a squad in Hong Kong easily and don't forget that 'shining' fist of yours. Also let us not forget how you handled my men."
Sousuke remembered the fight very well. He was able to pull out the power of the Arbalest with the help of one person, "How I pulled it out is not your business!" The battle in Tokyo still gave him nightmares. He was fighting a losing battle Sousuke thought he could win.
"It is and she is related Sgt or should I remind you about North Korea." Ocelot pointed out watching Sousuke's face contort, "So Liquid is giving you the same offer." Ocelot stuck out his hand like he would to shake someone,"Will you join us? He promises that if you do, Kaname will be released and Leonard will dealt with. You can even bury the body if you want."
Sousuke thought about Ocelot's offer and still had the same answer, "No and whatever you are planning with Metal Gear I will not be a pawn in it."
Ocelot shook his head and gave a low chuckle that gave Sousuke a bad feeling, "You are more like him than you imagine."
Sousuke glared at Ocelot, "Where is Kaname?"
Ocelot stayed silent at that one, "Got a better question than that boy?" He had his hand on his gun.
"I actually do have one," there were answers he needed. It was one that burned since he heard the name "Who are the Philosophers?"
Ocelot started smiling and laughing when Sousuke asked that question. He stared at Sousuke, "So they did not tell you about the Philosophers? Well this makes things interesting. More interesting than you know Sgt." Ocelot turned his back and pulled out a remote.
Sousuke drew his gun and aimed it at Ocelot, "Who are they!"
Ocelot only smiled and pushed the remote on the button. The door to Malik was sealed shut and red emergency lights came in the room.
"I just activated a fail-safe for the room," Ocelot walked over to a door and opened, "In about thirty minutes the air will be vacuumed out and Malik will die. If you want to save him than fight me."
Sousuke turned to Malik who was banging on the glass. He was pleading in Arabic to get out of the room, "Why do you want to fight me?"
Ocelot turned to him, "I wondered how much you have grown since Afghanistan Sgt and you have become a fine soldier. You surpassed my expectations in Tokyo, Paris and you put on quite a show on the island. Leonard is fuming about your new suit."
Sousuke turned back to Ocelot, "If I win you let Malik go?"
Ocelot raised his arms out, "I'll do more. I will tell you about the Philosophers and their connections to the Whispered."
Sousuke did a 180 in his head hearing that, "What connection do they have! Who are these people!"
Ocelot smiled, "More powerful than you can imagine Sousuke. More powerful than anything you have heard." Ocelot had his hand on the Colt, "Does that mean you accept?"
Sousuke hesitated but so far Ocelot had not lied. His story about the drugs and testing made sense so far. The only other thing was Leonard. The only explanation Sousuke could offer was that since he was a Whispered, he understood it better than any non-whispered person.
This was information he could not pass up but what choice did he have?
"Fine." Sousuke followed him into the room.
The room was as large as conference room with four tables forming a square. Sousuke looked around and saw mills, drills and other machines used for creating parts. Each table had different things on them. They either had parts, tools and one table had several rams belonging to Alastors. The room was supported by four pillars near each table.
Ocelot took his position on the opposite side of the room, "I am sure Michael told you how we fought. The same rules apply." He pointed to the SIG around his chest, "Take that off or I tell you nothing."
Sousuke took the SIG off and threw it in the center of the room.
Ocelot threw Sousuke four clips of ammo one at a time, "You might need these."
Sousuke nodded a thanks and stuffed them into his belt. Hopefully he would get everything he need before he ran out of ammo.
Ocelot held up the remote and only smiled. He pressed the button and a low vacuuming sound echoed into the room, "DRAW!" Ocelot yelled already firing two shots.
Sousuke dove for cover behind a pillar and the fight was on. He was already in contact with Snake. Hopefully, Michael had managed to stay out of trouble.
Several Minutes before Ocelot's challenge
Michael was still out of touch with Snake and the others but a great deal had happened. He was watching Leonard berate Sasha for whatever reason. Michael wanted to get Sasha out but the moment was not right.
Too soon and he risked himself and Sasha and it was the same if he waited too long. He had to be patient and wait for the right moment.
Michael' thoughts drifted back to an earlier mission. His mind pictured a ragged and thin girl who had no life in her eyes. Michael's hand was out to her asking her to come with him. They ran as he dragged her through fiery vehicles and trampling through empty bullet casings. They sprinting to the woods hoping to get as far away as possible.
Michael's mind returned to reality as Leonard started to get violent again. He slowly reached for the sword behind him and started to pull it out.
Sasha was yelling at Leonard in Russian but quickly switched to English, "You are asking the impossible of me. You want a full-proof simulation where you come out on top but I cannot do that!" She yelled standing up from her chair.
Leonard glared back at her, "You were able to calculate the trajectory of a missile launch from R perfectly. The results of that run were near-accurate and excellent. So, tell me why you cannot give me a simulation where that machine is destroyed!"
Sasha shook her head, "I need combat data to give you what you want!" She jabbed her finger into his flight suit and pulled her hair out of her face, "If you fight him first than I can-"
"Out of the question!" Leonard yelled, "I want that simulation at 100% the next time he comes out!"
Sasha started to have enough put held her patience, "Give me actual data and-"
Leonard struck her across the face and she landed on the table, "Rewrite the whole program and do it right. Otherwise, you will pay for it."
Sasha touched her face and roared at him. She grabbed him by the collar of his suit and swung him against the computers. Her hands were reaching for his neck as Leonard slowly pushed her back, "I'll pay? I'll PAY! What about my family! My little sister? You butchered them and yet you still threatened me." She kept trying to fight him but Leonard had control of her wrists, "Why not just kill me and be done with it!"
Leonard smiled. He stood over her and just stared out her, "If you wish." He grabbed by the throat and threw her onto the floor.
Sasha quickly got up and rushed at Silver. An Alastor appeared in front of her and grabbed her by the throat.
The machine lifted her up and kept his told tight on her. Sasha gasped as her legs dangled under her. She cursed in Russian toward everyone who only watched and stared.
"What are you orders?" The Alastor requested already in attack mode.
Leonard kept that same cold smile, "Tighten grip until her heart stops."
Sasha's fear shot through the neck down. The robot tightened his grip as she fought to breath. Tears pour from eyes thinking of her little sister and her bright smile. It was a sight for heaven
Sasha heard a sound of metal and than fell to the floor. The grip around her throat was gone as the hand just opened up. Sasha looked up and saw the Alastor without a hand.
The Alastor looked at the hand trying to register what just happened. Another metallic sound filled the air as the Alastor fell over.
Sasha scrambled to get away from the falling machine. It landed on the ground and tried to get up. Sasha flinched when she saw something strike through the head. She watched as the red visor flashed than go out. Sasha looked to see what caused it to fall and saw the legs were cut cleanly.
Leonard did not know what happened. A brief thought of Fox put fear in his heart. Was he here to kill him? He turned to the second Alastor who was already firing at the invisible target.
The Alastor tracked the target with upgraded infrared sensors. The targets body heat where enough for it to open fire. The chain guns under its arms popped out dropping casing after casings onto the ground.
Everyone dove for cover trying to avoid the bullets filling the halls. The intruder's camo sparked revealing a black and white armor almost identical to Fox but without the red Cyclops eye.
The figure turned at the Alastor and opened fire with a pistol. Bullets ricocheted off the head as the Alastor raised its arms to protect itself.
The Alastor quickly lowered its arms against the target. The guns did not fire as the Alsator saw that both arms had been cut off.
The figure pierced the center of the Alastor and pushed up on the blade. The blade arced and cut through the head.
The Alastor's circuits sparked and motors whined as it fell back dead on the floor.
Leonard finally had control of his breathing and realized what and who was in the suit. Dr. Hunter's timeline was completely inaccurate with what was standing before him, "Mr. Kanzuki I was wondering who that figure was."
Michael stood with a circle around him. He turned around and saw Sasha already being covered with guards. He was too slow and he had revealed himself. Michael's attention shifted to the emergency radio. The message he was getting was Ocelot was fighting Sousuke. The codec still needed another two minutes to connect with Snake and the others.
Leonard spoke again, "Dr. Hunter spoke highly of you when the suit and therapy were complete. You do look like a miniature Fox."
Michael ignored the comment still looking at Leonard. He would love action rather than words with at this moment especially with Leonard. He observed no Alastors and just a few armed guards around Sasha and nothing else.
"Is Sagara here?" Leonard asked with contempt. He had to deal with one problem at time. Once this was dealt with, than Sagara would be leaving in a body bag.
Michael did not answer but rushed right to Sasha. Getting her out and helping Sousuke was more important than-
Something with the force of a truck struck him across his body. He tumbled around and right into the wall. The wall cracked as he tried to register what or who had hit him. Michael seemed to be struck by invisible things all the time. He stood up thankfully he still had his sword. Michael reached for the gun and it was broken. It was bent on the barrel and was worthless. Michael looked at the wall thankful for the Gene therapy. Without it most of his bones would have been broken.
Michael got up and his heart raced like NASCAR. The thing in front of him looked like Fox with the same height and build. It had no weapons as far as he could tell and stood still in the room. He knew that it was an Alastor with the red visor across the face.
Leonard spoke, "Since our last fight I redesign the Alastors as much as I could," He pointed to the new Alastor, "I present the Alastor 2.0 model. It is as fast and deadly as your teacher but with a few additions."
Michael rested the sword on his shoulder, "No machine can mimic someone like Fox."
Leonard shook his head, "I disagree. This model's brain is an A.I system that not only knows a little about fighting but can adapt."
Michael's knuckles cracked as drummed the handle. Normally he would have laughed at that but this was Leonard. He was cunning and ingenious as he was a prick. If this machine knew fighting than Michael had to be careful when it came to using CQC or even the blade.
The Alastor shook its hand down and long blade popped out under its arm. The blade was the length and width of a broad sword and defiantly a HF blade.
Getting Sasha meant beating the Alastor. Michael held the blade in front of him as he waited for Leonard to order the machine.
"Orders?" The Alastor's inhuman voice spoke.
Leonard's cold smile grew bigger, "Take his head off."
"Roger." The Alastor charged right at Michael.
Blade and blade meant as the contest began.
I have started working one the next chapter and hope to get it done by the week after next. I hope everyone enjoyed it and again to give thanks to awolfofredmoon and his brother for helping out on the story. Thanks guys I appreciate it so much. In case you are wondering, what Sousuke and Malik said was a greeting between Muslims. All that it means is, 'the peace of Allah be with you', the response is the same but also with you. If I got the translation wrong than I will correct it. Thanks to everyone and please RR I really appreciate it.
BW
