Chapter 10 - Hostile Negotiations
It had been about three weeks since that Job on the merchant ship. In that time the Lagoon crew had gone on as normal, they were just waiting for Balalaika to call them when she had a new lead.
In that time they had taken some regular jobs nothing big just basic delivery, some legal some not. Other then that they just kicked back, and enjoy the break.
Also in that time Rock became more skilled with his guns. Under the strict teaching of Revy, who proved to be a surprisingly adept teacher, he was now more proficient at using both his 92's simultaneously. He was modest about his progress, but Revy was confident he would be just fine in a tough situation.
"I'd say you could bitch slap Eda now in a draw, and hold you own against her but you still not at my level yet Rocky baby" she teased him. Truthfully she was highly impressed with his advancement, and of course he was still the Rock she knew, he would not fire on unarmed people without reason, and gave a fair warning, and most of all he fought for good reasons. She did like how his biggest reason to fight was for her.
Their relationship had also stayed strong, and much to the annoyance of their co-workers their sex life was quite lively.
"Why the hell won't you at least give me a few details" Eda complained during one of Revy's visits for a little drinking while Rock helped out on some boat repairs.
"It's because it's not any of your fucking business and I know the minute I tell you something you'll start drooling over it and try to take him for yourself" Revy said in a bored tone at her friends pestering questions.
"Oh come on now need to be so selfish bitch, I promise I just want to sample not buy" she said.
Revy looked up "Try it bitch and you'll be begging for a quick death" Revy warned.
Eda seemed surprised, I've never seen her act like this, over a guy. Don't fucking tell me she's fallen for him, I just assumed he was great in bed. Well that would certainly explain a lot.
Eda took a sip of her drink "alright fine then, no need to get so hostile. I hope you two have a lot of fun together then" the last part she said in a different tone that made Revy think she meant something else
At that time Rock had been sitting in the control room testing the repairs by turning the engine on and off when Dutch called for it.
"Alright Rock that should do it, come on up top for a drink" Dutch called.
"Got it" he said taking his earpiece out.
He found Benny and Dutch at the boat's end. Benny was sitting on the edge while Dutch was wiping off the engine oil and grease that he was covered in. Benny passed him a beer.
"So how are things with Revy going?" Benny asked.
Rock knew they were just curious as they were a close knit group "well we still have an argument or two, but she actually apologized this one time" he said grinning.
Benny choked on his drink while Dutch chuckled "Damn and to think this started by her punching you in the face, taking you hostage, then firing her gun at you all in one day. Now look where you two are" he said.
Rock laughed "I'd almost forgotten about that, but I wouldn't change a thing" he said
"Same here" Benny said.
"Well a little soundproofing wouldn't hurt in a few places like the office, the boat, or your room" Dutch said jokingly.
Rock turned several shades of red.
"Just pulling your leg Rock but I gotta ask you, what your feelings for her are?" he asked.
Rock knew Dutch asked because he cared about his crew so he wasn't offended by the question.
"Well to be honest at first I didn't think much would happen when I told her how I felt. Know though it's hard to say, being with her is something I want, I guess what I'm saying is,," he paused unsure of what words to use.
Neither Benny nor Dutch finished his thought as it was something Rock needed to figure out on his own. Dutch turned around and put his hand on Rock's shoulder as he walked past.
"No need to rush things Rock. Let it come to you I know Revy feels the same" he said reassuring him.
Time passed and now here they all were lounging around in their office. Rock was sitting on the couch going over some financial papers, Revy was also on the couch leaning against him while reading one of her magazines, Dutch was in his chair having a cup of Coffee and Benny was watching some TV.
Suddenly the phone rang. Without even having to say a word all of them held up a fist and each shook once to decide who would answer, the game was odds and evens. They all shook their first's one more time then made their play. Then each looked up from what they were doing to see who lost.
The result was Benny lost and had to answer the phone.
"Hello Lagoon Company" he said as he picked up the phone. He listened for a moment then walked over to Dutch.
"It's for you Dutch, Miss Balalaika" he said.
"Dutch, it's been a little while I trust you and the others have been getting by?" Balalaika asked pleasantly.
"We've been doing alright I take it this is a call about an update on the current situation" he said.
"Straight to business Dutch, my thoughts exactly. Yes I have something to discuss with you and the others its about that data you retrieved for us a few weeks back it's given us a lead, would you please come down to our office for a little meeting?" she asked.
"We'll be right down" he said then hung up. He tossed the phone back to Benny and stood.
"What's up Dutch?" Rock asked looking up from his work. Revy also looked over from reading.
"Balalaika's asked us to head to her office for a meeting" he said.
The all got up and headed for the door, Revy slipped her holsters on and Rock put his on under the dark blue open collared shirt, this was now his choice style aside from the business clothing. It was more of habit then necessity to bring the guns along.
Soon enough they all arrived at the place. Boris greeted them at the front door and guided them to Balalaika's office. They were permitted to keep their weapons since they were working together now.
"Ah good right on time. Please make yourselves conformable" Balalaika said waving her hand to the couches in the room.
Dutch and Benny say down on one of them, Rock and Revy stood behind them.
"So what's this about sis?" Revy asked.
"Before I get to that Rock tell me what you know about this" she said handing him a few pieces of paper stapled together. Rock skimmed the first few lines. Revy read over his shoulder but didn't really understand it.
"The Otsu Company. There a weapons dealing company in Japan, they make trade agreements for weapons shipments from manufacturers they own, but from what I remember they were somewhere at the bottom of the food chain as far as company sizes go" he said.
Balalaika nodded "Excellent assessment, you are correct they are a rather small time company. However recently they have bought and moved into an office building formerly used by the military and have been producing firearms for one particular client, also there appears to be a new head of this company who put down the money to get all this started" she explained
They all thought about what she was saying, then Rock saw the truth first "That sponsor were looking" he said. The others looked up at him and saw his point.
Balalaika nodded again "Correct Rock. The men currently stationed within Japan have managed to regroup but their numbers have been highly reduced. They get this information to us, the other piece of information that makes me curious about this company in particular is the small numbers of weapons they ship out are going into Russian mafia hands. We did not notice them at first since we suspected a larger company, with the money they have access to so far it would have been easy. This is much more subtle, now they have additional fire power being supplied which will get to them faster then the supplier in the states. Chang has informed me that that member of Yuri's little circle has been making slow but quite progress" she explained.
"So then what's your plan Balalaika, you gonna take another trip up to Japan and level the whole thing?" Dutch asked.
She lit up a cigar "well you are half right Dutch, I am not entirely certain this new head may be the sponsor, if he is we cannot pass up this opportunity. However I'd wager it's nothing more then a scapegoat, a face the expect is blow away and make us let out guard down" she said smiling at their tactics.
"So then what the hell did you want to do then?" Revy asked getting impatient.
"Since they are dealing with Yuri they may have information on his location, if it's also the real sponsor a bonus for us, if not then this may draw him/her out of hiding" she said.
She took a drag on her cigar before continuing.
"We have however encountered an impasse. Their information we need is on the computers inside the building. We considered going in under the guise of a corporation interested in dealing with them, however they will see that coming. We need to get inside since we cannot penetrate the necessary computers from the outside, that was why I called you hear as Benny would be needed to get the information along with another computer expert on another end to receive the information you send out" She explained
Benny was surprised then an idea occurred to him "I do have someone in mind who I know would get the job done" he said smiling a little.
Revy looked down at him "are you talking about the counterfeiter girlfriend of yours, what was that smart bitch's name?" she asked trying to remember
Benny looked annoyed "her name is Jane. Please try not to insult her Revy" he said.
Balalaika looked at him "Are you certain her skills are adequate?" she asked.
Benny nodded "when it comes to computers she's near my level if I hack in on the inside she'll be ready wherever you need her. She's also been wanting to come visit so if the transportation can be arranged she'll be right on board" he said proudly.
Balalaika nodded "we've already commissioned some private jets for quick transportation this will be a small operation and we will not need many with us. The currently problem now is how we get inside their building and near the boss's office where out reconnaissance gathering team tells us is where the information we need is. Since the building was a former military one they would still be able to put up enough resistance to destroy what they know before we forced out way in" she said brooding.
For a moment no one spoke. Then a light bulb went up over Rock's head.
"Why don't we just arrange a business meeting" he said slyly. They all looked up at him.
"That would not work they would spot anyone of us" Balalaika said.
Rock grinned "True but lets say a certain Japanese businessman from another company wanted to open trade discussions with them" he said.
Balalaika understood what he meant right away and grinned like fox "I see, their boss does meet with representatives from companies who wish to speak with them so you would be able to get in, very slipper Rock I like it" she said.
"What about the computers though?" Dutch asked.
Rock thought for a moment "Benny and Jane can go in with me. Benny can pose as my bodyguard, Jane could be a secretary which would allow her to carry a laptop of something. We get in, Benny get's to their computers and has the information sent to Jane and we can just walk out while I pretend to be opening negotiations" he said
"Rock that plan sounds a little crazy. Nice to know you haven't lost your touch" Revy said jokingly, most likely referring to his last big idea of hitting a helicopter with a torpedo.
"What if things go wrong, they will have hired guns within the building? From what we know most of them have low to moderate skills but won't be heavily armed" Balalaika said
Rock sighed "well that's the only part of my plan that lying on luck. If we give Benny a gun and they take it from him they'll likely assume I'm not armed businessmen never do the actual dirty work. If those go wrong I'll make sure we get back out with the information you need" he said. The last bit he spoke in that harsher tone of his. It was enough for the Russian Mafia head.
"Very well Rock. From what I have heard you are certainly not one to be underestimated with you own firearms. Dutch I would like to ask that all of you come with me to Japan for this operation, I can only take a few but need your crew for this. Your will be paid of course as compensation" she said.
"I was about to ask myself for us to come I want this fucker who's painted a bulls-eye on the back on my employee's head dealt with" he said.
"Very well. Please return to your office and get anything you need ready we shall be leaving Roanapur in a few hours. Benny please contact your friend Jane and have her be ready to be picked up and brought to Japan" Balalaika said standing up and ending the meeting.
They all left to head back to their office to get a few things packed. For one Rock needed his more formal business clothing if he was going to pretend to be making some kind of deal. While he was in his room packing what he would need he heard Revy walk in. She had been very quite for the ride back and did not seem herself.
"You ok Revy you've been kinda quite" he said turning to her.
"I just not sure I like this plan I should go in with you with our kind of luck plans will get fucked up. Besides Benny doesn't know the first thins about fighting and that computer girl is a lot of trouble" she said. She spoke soft but angry tone.
"I know as much as I hate to say it though Revy I don't think you'll pass as a secretary. Besides we don't know things won't go according to plan" he said reassuring her.
Revy made a face and Rock could see the rest of her argument.
"Revy with a no shit answer. Do you think I could shoot my way out if I had too?" he asked calmly.
Revy looked at him then reluctantly she seemed to admit defeat "Fuck it. Yes you could if Sis say they only got small arms and are just guard dogs then you could make it, but you'll have a couple useless weapons to deal with to" she said. The last with a tone of annoyance, but her mood was better.
A couple hours later they arrived at the airstrip at the airport outside of the city. Balalaika owned a couple of private jets which she used know and then. She preferred to use her ship which could carry her commando unit but she knew their opponents in Japan would expect that. The number they had consisted of her, Boris, Lagoon, and several of her best men. The other plane that was sent to pick up Jane also had a small team of about half a dozen well seasoned soldiers.
Balalaika then picked her cell phone when she got an incoming call on her cell phone. After hearing her soldiers report she nodded then hung up. She then turned to look at Benny "Miss Bhai is now on her way to meet us in Japan my men report she has shown some strong enthusiasm" she said with a slight smile.
Benny turned about every shade of red and scratched the back of his head embarrassed "Oh I'm sure she is just eager to see me it has been a while" he said hurriedly then went to take to his seat.
Dutch occupied a set next to him and started knocking drinks back. Benny knew he hated flying one of the reasons why he loved his boat so much. Benny set to work on his recently acquired lap top, courtesy of Miss Balalaika, to look over the necessary design blueprints of the building. Since it was an older one it wasn't hard to get the needed information and would make quick planned escapes easy.
Balalaika sat up front with Boris and her men they were at first discussing their tactics for the small class operation on Japan. Then talk went to Yuri and their other problems.
Rock and Revy seated themselves at the back of the rows of seats. Revy had also changed into the clothes she had worm last time they went to Japan, those consisted of a thin black turtle neck, black tights, a short red and white stripped skirt, and a pair of thigh high leather boots. It wasn't as cold right now as the last time they went but Revy was used to the sub tropical weather in Roanapur. A short while after the plan took off Revy yawned, she was not overly fond of flying herself, and after a few shots of Bacardi she lifted the arm between her chair and Rocks. She started leaning into his shoulder for a nap when he surprised her and lifted his arm and put it around her so she could rest her head on his chest.
"Thanks babe. Wake me when we get there" she said sleepily. As she was dozing off she could hear an increase in his steady heartbeat, she smiled even though he could not see it, something about it was special to her, she figured she might as well as the question she had been brooding over for the last month or so, once they took care of business.
Rock looked down at her, she looked very peaceful, and for a moment he thought she looked more peacefully since she was using him as a pillow. He was feeling drowsy as well but was currently thinking over things, once again. If someone had told him 19 months ago he would be working for a pirate delivery company, he would laugh in their face. If someone told him he would be in a sexual relationship with the dangerous yet exotic woman gunslinger of that company, he would have them committed to the crazy house. If someone told him he was in love with said woman, he's have himself committed.
He realized he had in fact known for a long time, just like the mirage of his life in the city of winter, he needed to be woken up to it. Now he knew the truth.
He, Rock, loved Revy "Two-hands" more then anything else in this world, amen, Hallelujah, and peanut butter to quote Dutch.
He at first thought it was just over enthusiastic gratitude for how she woke him up from the mirage. Now he saw that's where it all started, not exactly a Hollywood style romance but then again he'd seen too many of them this was much more, exciting and frightening but in a good way. He wondered how she might feel, he knew things had changed between them for the better. Rock did now Revy cared for him, and their nights together were certainly more then just scratching an itch, he felt the chemistry.
"Fuck it, I'll just tell her when we get this done, she does say never know when the bullet is gonna find you" he said as he leaned back and dozed off.
A few hours later
Rock felt something shaking his shoulder. Opening his eyes he saw Benny standing next to him.
"Hey Rock, were here" he said.
Rock nodded. He then turned to gently shake Revy who looked like she was quite peaceful and comfy, "hey Revy time to wake up" he said.
Revy groaned "ah fuck, five more minutes baby" she pleaded in her annoyed tone.
Rock smiled and whispered something into her ear "well the sooner we get this done the sooner we get back to the hotel" he said in his harsher tone that knew got Revy going. On cue Revy's eyes opened and she looked at him hungrily "Fucking A. You certainly got a point there" she said standing up to stretch.
A few minutes later they got into the limo waiting for them. The soldier team got into a van behind it.
"So what's the plan Miss Balalaika?" Rock asked.
She grinned "I like you enthusiasm Rock. We'll be rendezvousing with our other team at the motel after which we will go over the plan. We have already contacted the company to arrange a meeting for a weapons trade contract under the name of the Lagoon Weapons Inc." she said.
The others grinned at the name.
"The meeting will be at 2:30 p.m. today. Rock judging from the likelihood of this being a trap I want you to carry your guns with you under your suit the reports we have indicate the overall staff is rather lax in security if we give Benny a weapon and he gives it up at the entrance they should take no notice of you. We will also give Miss Bhai a earpiece as she will be your secretary, this way we can keep some form of contact should things become difficult" she said laying out her plan.
Rock thought it over and nodded "If things get rough will we need to get down to the lobby as fast as possible?" he asked.
Balalaika nodded "Yes since this is a military class office building we cannot provide sniper cover fire due to the bullet-proof windows and the 1st floor can shut us out for a short time until we blast out way in. However we want to avoid this as we do not have a large enough force for a siege or to handle police intervention" she said.
"So as long as nothing happens until we get to the bosses office. I'll get him into discussion and work on getting him away from his desk so Benny can hack in to transfer the necessary information to Jane, then we get the hell out of there" he said, he went over the intended plan in a clam businesslike demeanour.
Balalaika nodded. An hour later they arrived at the motel they had booked rooms in. Balalaika had booked them separately as to avoid suspicion, she had also separated the floors she requested rooms for was well, She, Boris and her immediate team would occupy a deluxe villa, Dutch got his own, so did Benny along with Jane, and Rock and Revy got their own room on the third floor.
Balalaika and her subordinates walked in first all dressed in civilian clothing marking them as visiting businessmen. Dutch and Benny had also changed into clothing more suited for the colder climate. Dutch wore a large black coat, and dark blue jeans, he also kept his glasses and wore black leather boots in place of his combat ones. Benny kept his Hawaiian shirt and khaki pants, but now also wore a light blue coat and regular shoes instead sandals, he had packed a suit for when he would be posing as a bodyguard. Rock wore the clothes he wore in Roanapur now a days but with his green coat that he wore the last time.
About five minutes after Balalaika went in they strolled into the lobby trying to look like a group of guests who had all walked in together.
Suddenly Benny was assaulted by a woman who squealed and began kissing him "Benny honey it's been so long" Jane said as she broke off a bit. She was a woman of medium height with short blonde hair and had a darker skin tone of eastern Indian heritage. She wore a yellow blouse with white dress pants and hade a blue coat slung over her arm. She carried her duffle bag meant for her laptops and other devices on her other arm.
"Hey so nice to see you as well honey, I'm glad you could come help us out" he said in a subdued tone that said he was embarrassed by the rather loud reunion.
Dutch, Rock, and Revy acted like confused strangers before turning away to walk to the front desk to get their keys. To the left they could see Balalaika and her group getting into the elevator.
The clerk looked up at Rock and Revy as they got to the desk first. He smiled politely to Rock but seemed unsure of Revy standing next to him as he could tell she was a foreigner.
"Welcome, how may I help you" he said speaking in Japanese.
"Yes we have a reservation under the name Okajima" Rock replied in the same language.
The clerk checked his computer list and nodded, he reached behind him to a large rack that had several hundred slots. He then handed them their key.
"Room 313. Please enjoy your stay and let us know if you require anything" he said sliding them the key.
Rock nodded and slipped him a generous tip. It was for good measure, he knew if they had walked in half naked to check in and tipped well they would not think twice as long as they got their money.
Revy assumed a bored expression during the exchange. She looked over her shoulder to see Benny trying to keep his computer girlfriend's advancements at bay while they were still out in public.
She then felt Rock's hand take hers as he led them to the elevator.
Dutch then walked up to the counter and spoke a few words in Japanese Rock had taught him so he could ask politely for the clerk to speak in English. Benny also knew what to say as well.
They got into the elevator and Rock pushed the button for the third floor. He noticed Revy seemed very quite and took it as a sign she was thinking about something "hey you alright?" he asked.
At first she didn't answer right away. Then looking down she moved over so she stood closer to him and leaned into him a little "ya I'm just still unsure about this. Something here smells shitty and I'd rather you had me at your back then those two" she said.
Rock was touched again by her concern. He put his arm around her shoulders "I'll be fine Revy. The second we get this done my next job will be to get back to you or I'm buying you enough rounds at the Yellow Flag till you forgive me" he said
She chuckled "careful Rocky baby that could take quite a lot of liquid love before I forgive you if you fuck up" she said.
She then looked up at him and he saw her eyes soften and was about to ask her what was wrong when the elevator dinged and large group of loud kids nearly ran into them
"Hey watch it ya goddamn brats" Revy said.
They cleared the way at her hostile tone. Rock suddenly had a moment of déjà vu "maybe you should shoot some cans that would make them listen" he said trying to keep a straight face.
Revy looked up at him and lightly punched his arm.
They dumped their stuff in their room and headed off to Balalaika's suite since they had just less than one hour before the meeting. They knocked on the door and were met by Boris who nodded and let them in.
Dutch Benny and Jane were already inside.
"Ah good you're here now we can go over the final details before we begin" Balalaika said from behind a desk.
She handed Jane what on earpiece add on for a cell-phone to allow hands free talking, "please connect this to the phone we gave you, we will then be able to stay in contact, please try to avoid speaking into it unless our cover is blown" she explained.
Jane took it and nodded. She has also changed into formal business attire with a white blouse and black dress coat. She attached the ear piece to the phone in her pocket and shouldered a small bag that contained her laptop. It was larger then normal under the guise of needed her charger and other items needed in the business world. In actuality Rock's ammo clips and belt carriers were inside sine he would not be able to hide them as easily as his guns under his jacket.
Jane seemed a lot calmer then during their last fun filed adventure. She wasn't running around in an angry scared state.
"Do we have any info on their computer status?" she asked.
Balalaika shook her head "We only got the list of what ever they had delivered by our expertise on their technological status is rather low at the moment" she said
Jane frowned, normally she would have a dozen smart ass remarks but the room was filled with trigger happy men so she held her tongue.
"Well then can't say how long it will take to hack in and copy the information. Once we get in side and start to work we can be more certain" Benny said moving the conversation along.
"What happens if they find out will you all charge in and start shooting?" Jane asked looking around at the small number of armed soldiers.
"No should you be discovered we won't be able to get in soon enough your bodyguard will help you shoot your way out" she said with a slight smile as she knew Jane was not aware of who was a gunmen now.
Jane raised an eyebrow "I thought it was just the three of us is that psycho coming in to?" She asked.
Revy made an annoyed face "Interesting words coming from the dumb ditch who doesn't have anything to fight with" she said drawing a cutlass and pointing it at her.
Rock immediately put a hand on her wrist "come on Revy. I know she's not the most graceful but don't shoot her before the job starts" he said jokingly.
Revy snorted at that and put her gun away.
Many of those who were familiar with their current status were surprised. Granted Revy wasn't at full boil but it was still impressive to see Rock divert her temper.
"So who's the guard?" she asked. She looked at Benny in his suit and tie get up with a Glock under his arm. She knew he was just using that as a cover.
It was then she turned to look at Rock who shifted his jacket to reveal his black 92 cutlass Jr.
"What! No way he's using a gun now. I thought you were joking about that Benny, now I regret agreeing to this the last time he fought it was with a shelf unit against a giant chain saw" she said completely shocked.
Rock made an annoyed face "Revy keep that thought in mind for when were done here" he deadpanned.
Revy snorted again and patted him on the back.
Jane also recalled the other thing her honey bunny had told her about these two which, she thought he had been drunk and joking again. She was about to make a remark when Benny saw the look and grabbed her arm to warn her not to push her luck knowing Revy's and Rock tempers, though Rock's was more controlled.
"Now if everyone is ready we shall begin the operation. My team will remain in our second van along with Dutch and Two hands. We will keep in radio contact to listen on what goes on. Should everything proceed to plan you will exit the building and proceed to the parking lot under it. Should any errors occur take the emergency stairwells that lead directly into that lot we don't want the police catching us by the front door" she said.
Everyone knew what they needed to do. They all took the elevator to the basement floor to get into the vans that were waiting for them. Inside one the soldiers climbed in, they were all wearing civilian clothing so if any chance of shooting occurred in the streets they could disappear among the crowds.
In the other Van Boris drove while Balalaika sat at a table secured to the floor with a schematic of the building laid out in front of her. There was some radio equipment for them to keep in contact with Rock, Benny, and Jane. Dutch and Revy also sat in the van as well, they looked less like soldiers in civilian clothes and worked in sync with Rock and Benny a lot better then the soldiers would.
Rock sat on a bench in his old formal businessmen clothes, his guns were secured beneath his bluish grey jacket and even if someone looked down on him they would not be able to see the butt's unless he un latched the coat at the middle. The trade off was that Rock was not used to drawing like this and would need an extra second to unbutton the jacket before drawing as to avoid catching on his coat.
Revy sat next to him and saw how tense he looked. This was different for him. Revy knew he would handle himself just find if bullets started flying, but this was his were he had grown up and there would be innocent people in that building. The concept of bystanders was a grey area for her, but for Rock is was something that mattered. That was one thing she liked about him even though he would fight till he dropped for her he still held some meaning for human life and being with him helped her remember that part of her that was buried so far down she was certain it was dead. She had no illusions about becoming some saint, she would always be Revy, though the part of her that was alive again thanks to him would give her more reasons then just money and power to keep on fighting until to maybe dodge that one bullet.
Rock felt a warm in his left hand, he saw Revy give him a comforting squeeze, no one was paying them any attention so she wanted to give him a quick sign of luck before he want in. Rock gave her a warm smile.
They reached the parking lot under the building soon enough. It was a large building, maybe 15-20 stories up. It had dark walls and tinted windows. From looking at it you could tell the renovations on the exterior had been recent.
Rock, Benny, and Jane got out first. They had parked in a spot where the ceiling lights did not reveal them as much which suited there needs just fine.
"See ya in a bit" Rock said as they walked off to head for the front door.
Revy watched Rock's back intently as he walked away, already he had the air of a successful businessman around him as he reached the exit. She grinned as she lit up a cigarette. It wasn't untrue he was still a businessmen in a way even on the job his skills had certainly improved things with money quite a bit.
"You seem pre-occupied Two-Hands is the fate of your dear student in gunslinging giving you cause for concern" Balalaika said as she leaned against the side of van next to Revy and took a drag on her cigar.
"How is it any concern of yours how I feel about the safety of my partner as well as another fellow co-worker Sis?" Revy asked putting on a bored tone.
"Still a partner not your boyfriend?" Balalaika asked amused.
Revy froze for a second. Then with stunning speed she turned to that she and the Kapitan were nose to nose.
"I'll ask again, how is it any of your concern" she said in a quite but deadly tone.
Balalaika gave no outward sign of surprise or any reaction that she was intimidated. However the look in Two-hand eyes gave her pause. Even one like her knew fear, accepting it was what made you the better soldier. Right now she felt fear in herself and a flicker of fear was also what she saw in the back of those brown eyes.
"No need to get so defensive Revy. I'm quite pleased you and he are enjoying something together, I even won a steak dinner courtesy of Chang for it" she said in neutral tone.
Revy, who was sharper then most pegged her for, could tell Fry-Face was either playing with her or sending a message about her feeling concerning Rock.
"Let me make this clear Sis, I don't know what the fuck your thinking, but if you think I will let anything happen to him due to your actions or lack of for whatever reason then you better pray to fucking god you make the first shot count because I will make sure we all ride the elevator to hell" Revy said.
Balalaika took another drag of her cigar "I see" she said. Meanwhile others things became clear to her. This was not some good times in bed for the two of them, there was more here. Balalaika had considered the contingency plan of letting Rock get captured should this plan fail. The enemy would have grown soft if it sensed prey. However she had thought Revy or Dutch might throw a wrench into her calculations, and it appears one factor that had just recently become aware to her in the ride over was true. Revy would not take that plan well and Rock would certainly make all efforts humanly possible to getting back.
She dropped the butt of her cigar to the ground and crushed it "Like I said no need to become hostile Two-Hands I merely wished to offer congratulations on such a happy turn of events in this rather dismal world of ours" she said climbing back into the Van.
Revy stood there then realized she had won. She let out a sigh of relief and went back inside to listen in on Rock's progress.
**
"Did those guys at the entrance have guns on their hips?" Jane asked discreetly as they walked into the main lobby of the building.
Rock nodded slightly to shut her up. He was wearing sunglasses so no one would notice his eyes going from one spot to another. He turned his head as though to admire the interior design which had been recently renovated but it was in fact to gauge the number of armed men stationed on the main floor. Next to him Benny walked with a pair his mirrored clip over his own sunglasses so everyone would assume Benny was the one looking around.
Aside from the two armed men at the door rock counted about half a dozen more all of then lounging around. It was clear these men were fodder most either just former gang punks in suits or low level grunts to alert the higher ups.
They came to the desk. Behind it was a pretty dark haired petite woman typing away and occasionally answering a phone. From the smile she gave Rock as a sign she would be right with him he could tell she was just a civilian. He would have to be careful, what mattered was getting this information and getting all three of them safely out of here, but he did not like the fact of bystanders getting caught up in this.
"Welcome to the Otsu company, how can I help you" the woman said smiling up at Rock.
Rock found the formal greeting refreshing. He removed his glasses and returned the smile, "Yes I'm from Lagoon Inc. here for a meeting" he said.
The woman nodded and checked her files "Ah yes I have you here in for meeting in just a few moments please take the elevator to the top floor and make yourselves comfortable in the lounge, Mr. Otsu will be with you shortly" she said gesturing to the Elevators to their left.
"Thank you, have a nice day" Rock said kindly.
He then turned and the others followed in step with him. Rock spotted another smaller desk by the elevators with two men standing near it. One was behind the desk while the other held a sentry position next to the elevator door.
He gave a small grin and nodded as they approached, "Afternoon, the policy concerning registered fire-arms above this floor asks that your associate please leave them in our care until you leave" he said speaking seriously but with a polite tone.
Rock grinned and nodded "of course, Benny" he said over his shoulder as Benny reached into his jacket and retrieved his gun. He at least knew enough about them to release the clip inside and handed it to the man behind the desk. He nodded as he slipped it into a locked desk and gave Benny a sheet to sign his name and date for him to pick it up later.
The first man then spoke "are there any other items you are carrying?" he asked in a routine voice.
Rock smiled as though he was amused "No that is all a businessmen like I hardly wishes to handle anything dirty" he said. He said this without any hesitation he certainly wasn't a bad actor.
**
Back in the Van the others all either grinned or chuckled as they heard Rock's muffled voice through Jane's phone.
**
The guard grinned and nodded knowingly he then gestured for them to go on in.
The were now in the elevator.
"Alright once I get him talking I'll try and get him away from the desk. If he's a real businessman he loses all interest in you after introduction. Benny just get your part done ASAP" he said. During the ride he had pulled out both his guns to pull the slides back to be ready for the possible quick draw, he didn't think this was necessary at first but something didn't feel right.
They reached the top floor and walked out onto a comfortable looking lounge. There was a set of double doors leading to the office and in front some large overstuff couches. There was a man sitting back on one of the couches. He was tall, had a broad and muscular looking build, slimmer then Dutch was fit nonetheless. He looking to be in his later 40's had clean shaven face, and a receding greyish blonde hair line. He was dressed in an American style military uniform. Part of it was more formal wear but the pants were more of the on base type. He had large silvery sun glasses on his face and did not appear to be armed.
He stood up as he saw the others coming from the elevator.
"Hi there I guess you must be the others who got a meeting with the boss here he had us set up for a joined one" he said standing up and offering his hand. He didn't have any obvious accent that said what state he hailed from.
Rock again did not hesitate, he shook the man's hand "Pleasure to meet you I'm Mr. Rokuro from Lagoon Inc. but everyone calls me Mr. Lagoon" he said grinning.
The man chuckled "a nice nickname. Lt. Colonel Will Buffalo" he said standing and saluting them all.
**
In the van Revy stiffened at the sound of the new voice. Something about it was dangerously familiar but she couldn't place it. She was sitting behind Dutch and Balalaika so they did not notice. She didn't want to say anything that might set off the computer bitch until she was damn certain.
After a minute she finally remembered. She then stood up "Sis we got a problem" she said sounding alarmed
**
"So are you working out a business deal with from the states?" Rock asked making small talk while they waited.
The Colonel Nodded "Yes we don't have many military grade contracts within the Japanese business world of arms" he said.
Before they could get into anything else the door opened and a woman walked out and said they could enter now. She then turned and left to go to the elevator.
Rock stood up and allowed the Colonel to enter first as it was the polite thing to do. He followed behind trying to think how he was going to keep them away from the office desk he saw. The office was not overly decorated and looked like it had just been redone. There was a couple couches in the middle of the room just in front of them one on the left and right, an impressive desk with larger windows behind it. There was a computer on the desk, the chair behind it though was turned around.
Rock saw to the left of the room was another door the led back out into the hall.
Just as the door closed behind them the chair turned around. The Colonel proceeded to go stand next to the desk and turn to face the now pale Rock as he saw who was in the chair.
"Shit" he breathed. Next to him Benny and Jane looked oblivious.
**
"What are you certain?" Balalaika asked.
Revy nodded "I'd recognize that voice anywhere this is big shit were in we need to get them out right now" she said.
There was a change in her voice that said she was both terrified and pissed off at the same time. Despite her words she seemed frozen.
**
"So nice to meet you Mr. Okajima, or should I say Rock" Kageyama said.
It was Rocks old boss from the Asahi industries. The one who told him he was going to be killed when he had been kidnapped by Revy and the others. He was a tall thin man with combed back hair that was now almost gone from the top of his head. He had a face set in an almost permanently neutral look. However in his eyes was intense hatred.
Rock had a number of replies ready but from the way he had taken to long he knew the cover was blown so he had to simply wing it.
"So I take it this is revenge I heard about you getting fired boss sorry by the way" Rock said in his now calm collected tone.
Beside him Jane was not understanding a thing and was gonna speak but Benny took her arm and pulled her to stand in the back and gave her a look to shut up he knew Rock was the one to handle this.
"Yes when Asahi was facing a possible criminal investigation for fraud they decided since I had already bungled once with that incident with you they saw fit to place me at the end of the paper trail. Naturally this is your fault for failing as a proper businessmen and I sought revenge" he said speaking casually like this was a board meeting.
Rock could see he was at boiling point if he pushed he might get answers.
"No need to place all the blame on me boss if you had the business sense to deploy some escort along with me on that boat you would not have this black mark on your record. I can't imagine who much you've suffered financially" he said prodding him.
He saw the vein's popping on his forehead and he stood up slowly but as though he was trying to be intimidating.
"So I wonder how someone who had so royally fucked up worked up the money to be Yuri's sponsor" he said as though he was asking himself.
Kageyama spat "you think you know so much-" he said but was interrupted by putting up a hand to shut him up.
Rock saw that and smiled "ah I see you're not the real sponsor. You're just a figurehead for the public and others to see. Nothing but face" he said.
His taunts no longer proved effective. Kageyama seemed to regain control.
"You may be correct but I will still get my revenge on you and those criminal friends of yours" he said. He had noticed Benny was one of them.
It was then the Colonel, who was obviously an associate spoke up, his kind looking face, was gone and he removed his glasses to display cold gleeful eyes.
"Tell me young man, Rock I believe the name is. How is sweet young Rebecca?" he asked. His voice sounded like it was filled with malice and joy
Rock's eyes widened sharply as he heard him call Revy by her full name something only few people did. Judging from him being from the states he was someone who knew Revy from when she lived in New York.
"Rebecca?" he asked.
"No sorry that game will not work. I already know who are working with her. Do you by any chance know the history between me and sweet little Rebecca, we were very, very close" he said smiling sadistically. His tone and words suggested something Rock had feared in the vague information he knew about Revy's past.
Rock could feel his blood starting to boil, his left eye twitched as he spoke in a slightly trembling voice "and just what kind of relationship did you have with Revy" he said.
The colonel smiled at this "Revy is that the name the little bitch is now using. I must say I prefer Rebecca better suits such a tasty thing like her" he said gleefully.
Rock eye's narrowed and his fists clenched.
Benny saw this and started to panic "Rock calm down, he's trying to fuck with your head" he said. Though the look he saw in Rock's eyes reminded him of Revy.
**
In the van they could hear more clearly. They had not said anything since they did not want to distract them.
Revy's eyes had widened at the conversation progressed. When she heard Benny speak she gasped, oh no Rock, she thought as she picked up the mic and started talking
"Hey Jane quick tell Rock you need to get out of there now" she said.
There was no response.
Balalaika and Dutch remained clam they knew the enemy wanted them to charge in like the Calvary but would have to put their faith in Rock. Balalaika spoke to Boris to tell the men to be ready for immediate pick up and departure from the battle grounds before the police would make things difficult.
**
"Oh what's this? Judging from your reaction I would say you and sweet little Rebecca are very close. Is she your pet or are you her pet I wonder" he said licking his lips in an obscene way.
Rock then saw him slowly reaching to his belt. He also saw Kageyama reaching under his desk.
"Benny down!" he shouted as one had went for the button at his jacket middle. His right hand went for the gun and brought it out in time with the Colonel's draw. In a second his left hand caught up just as Kageyama frozen with his own gun half raised. Benny grabbed Jane and dived to the floor covering her.
The colonel was holding a Beretta M9. Kageyama was holding a Jericho 941 F. Rock saw the safety on Kageyama's was still on so he wasn't a threat.
"Well this is another surprise. Our Intel said you didn't carry any guns, but look at this two of them just like little Rebecca's does this mean she taught you how to shoot. How is she by the way, I would like to know since I broke her in for you, just like my brother whom she shot" he said in his cold glee filled voice.
Rock was breathing heavily. His temperate was rising along with his heart rate at the release of so much adrenaline. Fortunately his hands were steady a clear indication that while he was angry the taunts would not make him unfocused.
The Colonel saw this and frowned "I guess she has rubbed off her naughty side on you as well. Oh well" he said as he pulled back the hammer.
Rock then aimed both guns at him just as he fired. The bullet missed and Rock began to fire as well. The colonel moved with skilled speed as he dived behind the desk tackling Kageyama as he went. He fired blindly as he went down.
None of the shots came close to Rock as he dived behind one of the couches also firing blind shots over it. One of his guns hit empty and he tossed the mag out as he knew he only had about 3-4 more in his left gun.
It was then he heard foot steppes from behind the desk. He looked over the desk to see the colonel running for the rear door to the outside hall way. He fired two more shoots from his gun then it went empty. Rock fired just as he reach the door his one shot missed but grazed the man's side he wouldn't die from that but from the yelp he heard he hit a good spot.
"Oh you'll pay for that boy" he said. He then disappeared down the stairwell that was down the other hall from the elevators.
Rock stood up "Benny you two all right?" he asked.
"Ya were alive somehow" he said sarcastically.
"I knew this was going to happen" Jane said annoyed.
"We gotta move fast. Benny can you still get the hack done before any guys show up" he said talking quickly but calmly.
Rock then walked around the behind the desk he saw Kageyama looking terrified but still holding the gun pointing at him.
"Word of advice boss you might wanna take the safety catch off if your planning on shooting someone" Rock said coldly.
Kageyama looked at his gun then dropped at as Rock pointed his at him.
"Please don't kill me" he said.
Rock wasn't going to but the man was also too cowardly to give up any information that would be helpful and talking would take to long.
"Don't worry I'm not gonna shoot but the cops are gonna love this" he said as he took Kageyama's gun then pistol whipped him with it.
Benny and Jane were looking at him slightly unsure of what to do. Rock would have laughed under different circumstances.
"Quick get the stuff we need then we need to get out of here" Rock said taking the bag and phone from Jane. He first took out all three of his magazine carriers each with three clips he then secured them to his belt and then took the cell phone out and put the earpiece in.
"Balalaika you there?" he said. He reloaded both of his guns and had seven more clips ready
"Rock report" was her reply.
"The situation is getting hectic Benny and Jane are gonna see how long it will take them to start the download, then we'll get out of here" he said.
"Rock is the Colonel still alive" came Revy's voice. She sounded worried and a little afraid.
"No I'm sorry he got away but I managed to give him a minor injury" he said.
Benny then shouted "Rock there's nothing here this computer is empty!"
"Fuck this was a trap" Rock said just as he heard the elevator bell going off.
Running to the door he saw the doors starting to open and the first thing he saw was half a dozen handguns. On the wall perpendicular to the elevator Rock saw a fire extinguisher.
Moving with skilful speed Rock aimed his left gun into the hall and shot the extinguisher. It exploded and showered the half dozen armed thugs who rushed right into it. The bang was loud to Rock but would disorient the men.
Rock then crouched low as he leaned into the hall more to aim both guns and fired into the slightly cloudy hall.
They fired back but either missed completely or hit themselves. Rock fired a total of 9 times 4 from his left gun 5 from the right as he could not see fully. The hall soon cleared and all of them were down and not moving.
"Rock what the fuck was that bang?" Revy shouted in his ear.
"I shot a fire extinguisher to distract them that shot them all" he said calmly as the adrenaline was taking over.
No one in the room of on the other end responded to Rock's quick thinking.
Rock then stood up and walked back into the office. Counting the first shot he was now down to 10 shots per gun.
"Rock we just received a report of police cars heading this way they will be here in 30 seconds" Balalaika said.
Rock thought quickly then came up with an idea "Roger we'll be heading for the parking lot don't do anything to draw attention" he said.
"Copy that" Balalaika said sounding amused at his commanding attitude.
Rock the looked at Benny and Jane "let's go if shooting starts get down got it" he said in his harsher tone of voice his eyes now similar to Revy's in a gunfight.
Since Benny was more used to this he took Jane's hand as she grabbed her stuff, "got it Rock were right behind you" he said smiling to show he trusted him.
Rock then went straight for the elevator. They stepped over the bodies, Jane hardly believing it was Rock who had done that.
They got inside and the doors closed.
Rock looked over his shoulder "Benny you said there is an emergency stairwell that leads right to the parking lot which floor can we get to it on?" he asked.
Benny thought for a minute "7th is closest they haven't finished it yet" he said.
Rock then pushed the 7th floor button and stood with his guns pointing down ready for when they got there. His eyes were closed as his breathing returned to normal and he readied himself for the next part of his plan.
"Rock the police at the front right now" Balalaika said.
"Roger" Rock said just as they hit the 7th floor. He poked his head out then aimed his guns at either direction of the hall they were in. He saw no one he then signalled Benny and Jane then as they got out he hit the fire alarm switch. The alarm went off a second later.
"That should keep the cops busy and the elevators won't work so they can't corner us that fast" he said.
"Good work, now hurry" Balalaika said.
The hall was then filled with men and women all either heading for the main stairwells just to their left or panicking as they ran. None of them noticed Rock or his guns as they passed.
"Benny where's out stairwell?" he asked.
Benny looked at the sign on the wall, "Just down this hall into the main office area and then a right and its right ahead of us" he said.
They turned left and moved quickly down the hall. Just as they reached the office area some wild shots hit the area above them from the left.
Rock turned levelling his gun as he saw some men in suits standing in the cubicles holding guns. Rock began to fire. He took out two men with his first three shots. He backed up slowly as he fired to suppress them.
Benny and Jane got down as they crawled for the door to the emergency stairwell.
There were still four more guys still standing. Some didn't bother ducking as they held machine guns, but those with handguns ducked and popped up to fire.
Rock emptied his left gun's eight shots taking out two more of them. He tossed the mag out with a flick of his wrist as he emptied his other gun at the last two taking all but one as they kept ducking behind the walls. The last one took the last bullet in the arm and went down screaming.
Rock then ran into the stair well as he reloaded to more clips. He was now down to 5.
Benny and Jane were waiting for him and the stairwell was wide enough for at least four to walk side by side. They moved in a group so Rock should not have them in the way if any shot coming up or down.
They made it to the 3rd floor before they heard the sound of boots coming from the 4th. Rock aimed his left gun up and took out the two men coming down with two easy shots.
Soon enough they reach the 1st floor door. They heard the sounds of a lot of people yelling and moving. Rock guessed the chaos he wanted was working.
He then heard the 2nd floor door above them open but no foot steps. He then pushed Benny and Jane ahead and in second they hit the parking lot door.
They emerged to find Revy and Dutch waiting for them each holding their own weapons ready to cover. When they saw no one was behind them they lowered their guns.
Revy walked up putting her guns away and put her arm around Rock's shoulders pulling him close "nice work in there baby" she whispered into his ear.
Rock sighed in relief. Dutch Benny and Jane were now moving to the van which was now started and ready to go. Revy and Rock made their way, Revy still had her arm around Rock's mid section.
Just then Rock heard a creak. He looked out of the corner of his eye and saw the colonel holding a machine gun with a silencer and laser targeting scope mounted on it. Rock saw the dot on Revy's neck.
Reacting Rock pushed Revy aside as he turned and raised his guns. Just then two loud bangs sounded.
Revy looked up her eyes widening with horror as she saw Rock fall in slow motion to the ground. He had a wound high on the right sigh of his chest, and another which had grazed his waist but left a deep nasty gash.
"Rock!" she yelled. Turning she saw the bastard colonel lowering his gun
The others turned at the sound, Dutch raised his revolver. Revy also pulled out her cutlasses. They both fired a few times but the colonel has already disappeared back inside.
Revy then dropped her guns as she dropped to her knees lifting Rock's head and pushing her hand down on the wound to his chest, blood had already left a large stain and started to pool on his side. Dutch and the others were running to them. Boris was right behind with some soldiers carrying a stretcher.
"Rock you fucking dumbass, why did you do that!" she yelled. Her tone was panicked and angry and afraid at the same time. There were angry tears just starting to well up in her eyes
Rock looked up at her. He gave her a weak smiled and whispered back to her "I did it because I love you Revy" he said. His eyes closed and he passed out.
A/N: Ah finally that took forever to write. Well at da Rock has confessed his love for Revy, and under a nice dramatic scene. I hope you all don't mind the colonel it may seem dark of me but I like this sort of thing in a good story. I all hope you want to see that guy dead. Anyway in an up coming chapter, maybe the next one I will be delving in a characters past as part of the story. Hope you all enjoyed seeing Rock doing some solo gunplay, I also hope the whole shooting the fire extinguisher doesn't seem cheesy I wanted that in there lol. Please R&R and enjoy! Stay Tuned : ).