RP:Red vs Blue: Revolution/Episode 13

 Episode XIII: The Lone Wolf Strikes

 * Agent_Texas|AI 's avatar flickers into view next to Carolina's table side, and sighs.  North hasn't come out of his room all day.  He refuses to let anyone in.  I didn't let him know I was keeping an eye on him though.  * Agent_Carolina glances over at the AI, raising an eyebrow.  Give him some space. He of all people needs it right now.  Yeah. I know.  So, did Dr. Halsey say anything before she left? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina is quiet for a moment. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> It doesn't matter what she said. I just have to make sure I do what everyone needs me to do. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI nods. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I still don't know what to make of her. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> She's a smart woman. Maybe too smart. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> The last person I knew who was too smart for his own good... <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI trails off, muttering. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming enters the room with the holotable, stopping to salute Carolina as his glance flicks briefly to Tex. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Ma'am. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina returns the salute. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stands at ease, handing Carolina the datapad. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Personnel report. Thought I'd start acting like a senior NCO. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina takes the datapad, looking over it. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Thank you, Wyoming. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> North will require time, I'm sure, but there's other considerations for him. He's accustomed to fighting in tandem. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I recommend assigning someone to watch his back. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I think it's best we let him stay away from the fighting for a while. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Agreed. There's also another matter, a transfer request. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> We need everyone we can spare. Texas, are there any non-combat positions we could assign Agent North Dakota to? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> He could act as spotter for...whatever our next mission is. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina scowls. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Make sure it's low-stress, whatever it is. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I want him evaluated before he returns to the battlefield. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> North has always been the forgiving one, but...I get the feeling even he'll be looking into a little payback on our next operation. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I can take care of it. Losing Addie probably makes me the best counselor for him. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Or at least puts me in a position of understanding. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina glances at her datapad again. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Transfer request? For whom? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming hesitates. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming>. . . it's mine, ma'am. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina looks up at Wyoming, brows knitting. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Yours? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Yes, ma'am. I feel I've gotten too close here. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Last time I was out on a mission, when I was wounded. . . I had a chance to kill Georgia. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I didn't take it. I still thought, somehow, we could help him. And now North's lost a sibling. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI sighs. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That wasn't your fault, Wyoming. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Wyoming, you're as solid a soldier as I could expect you to be. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I don't blame myself. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> But I played my part in it, because I was attached. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> That cost a squadmate her life. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> You did the right thing. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That's more than I can say for that bastard Georgia. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I'll remain with you until we hunt down Georgia, but after that. . . <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming glances uncertainly at Tex's avatar, still strictly addressing Carolina as his superior, but his eyes flick back to her repeatedly. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina sighs slightly, shaking her head a bit. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York enters the room and lifts his helmet off. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> At least... you're honest. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Thank you, ma'am. It will just need your signature. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Where do you intend to go, Wyoming? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Another field unit. Somewhere I can remain objective. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina nods curtly, though her eyes betray her internal distress. She signs the datapad with a fingertip. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Guess that's as much as anyone can ask for. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Objective isn't everything. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina hands the pad back to Wyoming. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> But I guess it'll have to do. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming accepts it, head bowed in a subconsciously apologetic manner. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York sighs after having walked in the room. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> ...Did I miss something? <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI glances at York as he enters. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> No. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Nothing. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina looks up at York. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming glances at York, somewhat embarrassed. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I'd appreciate it if this was kept quiet. . . <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> What? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming puts on a smile, shaking his head. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Nothing to worry about, York. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York sighs with relief, lifting a hand to rub his forehead.

<font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming is scouring his already-spotless armor, anticipating a funeral. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York is sitting in the locker room with one hand over the other, contemplating something, his helmet laying next to him. Clyde has this look on his face that says he's in deep, deep thought. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming leaves the armor bay, carrying a datapad. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida steps into the locker room, and sees York. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York literally doesn't notice Butch. He's still thinking. Just...thinking. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> York? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York turns his head to Florida, blinking twice. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Hey...didn't see you there, buddy. I'm just uh, thinking. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I can see that. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida sits down next to York. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> It's a shame, isn't it. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida shakes his head. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> South was never the most popular Freelancer. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> But she had another chance, and she did right. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Now... <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> And...well. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> She meant everything to North. No matter how she acted. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington (9968b165@gateway/web/freenode/ip.153.104.177.101) has joined #halo-fanon * Omicron_AI (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has joined #halo-fanon * ChanServ gives voice to Omicron_AI <Omicron_AI> Is my presence making you nervous, Agent Washington? <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington sits down in the locker room and suppresses a scowl. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> No, Omicron. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Carry on. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Butch, North just lost a sister. Remember when I brought up my own? I'm...kinda nervous. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida glances at York. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> It's always easier to think about losing your own life than losing someone you care about. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Do you know where she is? <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> I don't know right now. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York lifts a hand to rub his neck, anxiously. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> She's probably on Reach by now. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Reach...we're on our way there now, actually. Just got a few other colonies to pass through first. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York jolts up for a moment as soon as he hears that. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> First thing I'm doing is finding her when we get there. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida takes out a datapad from his storage. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Say, if you could give me some information on her, I can have someone in ONI look for her. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida hands the pad to York. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York takes the pad and begins entering the information into it. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Hey, Butch. Thanks for that. I think you just made me feel better. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Don't mention it. <Omicron_AI> Wash? we're receiving new orders. <Omicron_AI> They want you to inform Florida and meet up with an ONI officer. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington sighs and gets to his feet, tugging his battle rifle up with him. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Yeah, yeah. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I know all about it. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I'm "ONI's dog", after all. <Omicron_AI> Don't sound so bitter. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Of course not. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Bitter wouldn't win the war, would it? * Omicron_AI sends a notification to Florida, telling him to meet Washington in hangar bay two. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida receives the notification. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I have to take this. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Return that to me when you're done. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida gets up and leaves the locker room, quickly heading to the hangar. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York is left to his own thoughts and typing on the pad. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington heads to hangar bay two. * CMDR_Serin_Osman (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has joined #halo-fanon * ChanServ gives voice to CMDR_Serin_Osman * CMDR_Serin_Osman is waiting for the agents in hangar bay two. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida steps into the hangar and sees Wash and Osman standing next to a stealth shuttle taking up most of the hangar space. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington salutes, but the gesture is languid and nowhere near as crisp as it once was. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida salutes as well. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Evening, Freelancers. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Ma'am. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Commander. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I've ordered that this ship be stopped because ONI has an important assignment for you. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We're currently in orbit around Ariel, and it will not proceed to Reach until the operation is completed. * CMDR_Serin_Osman hands an electronic dossier on a datapad to Washington. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington takes the dossier and looks it over. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I'll be overseeing this operation to ensure that it's a success. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> General Adam Makosky of the Insurrection is on board his ship, the Kasserine Pass, approximately 40,000 kilometres from the planet. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington 's fist curls slightly. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Makosky, huh. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> It's simple, you will board undetected, eliminate the general, and set the ship for detonation. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Aye aye, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I will relay orders to you throughout the course of the mission, from a stealth shuttle which will also be your extraction after your objectives are complete. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Agent Washington, if you would pass the dossier onto Agent Carolina. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> The assigned team members are already listed. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> The shuttle awaits you in this hangar once you're ready to go. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Yeah. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I mean, yes ma'am. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I'll get right on that. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington turns stiffly on his heel and walks off, dossier in hand. * CMDR_Serin_Osman nods curtly and turns back to board the shuttle, making preparations for the operation. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida walks with Washington down the hallway. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Hey, you okay? <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I'm fine. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington glances at Florida over his shoulder, still walking. <Omicron_AI> You seem stressed. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> That's an understatement. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> That's enough out of you for one day, AI. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Florida, you're my superior, so I can't tell you to shut up. <Omicron_AI> Standing by. * Omicron_AI (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has left #halo-fanon <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington grits his teeth and wags his head violently as the AI withdraws. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'm worried about you, Wash. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Not as a superior, but as a friend. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I know it's hard to lose a teammate, but... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida trails off. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Yeah, I'm sure you do. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> But I had that mass-murdering psychopath in my sights for three days and kept at my mission. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Whenever it looked like shit, whenever there was a dead end, I kept at the damn mission. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Is this the part where everyone thinks it's their own fault? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Because it's not. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> No. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> You don't get it, Butch. I helped those people for weeks because it was my damn mission. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> I played the traitor for all of you, and I did it brilliantly. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> It's only fitting that the only person who prevented me from completing that mission was the one person who knew how it really felt to be a traitor. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Well, we're going to stop him. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Whenever it is that we find him, we'll deal with him.

<font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida reaches Carolina's room with Washington and knocks on the door. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI slides open the door by tapping into the controls. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> That's handy. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington enters with Florida, dossier at the ready. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming snaps a crisp salute before leaving to don his armor. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We've got a new mission, Major. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> ONI wants us to take out Makosky. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington steps forward with the dossier. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York hands the datapad from earlier to Florida. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida takes the datapad with a nod. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'll look into this once we get this mission out of the way. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Makosky. The little rat bastard. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> In fact, we're going to blow up his entire ship. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> He's isolated enough to be dealt with easily enough. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I'm pleased to hear that, but I am not pleased that I'm getting this information second-hand. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> You know how ONI works, Carolina. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We'll be taking orders from one of their Commanders. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I know how ONI works. I just don't like it. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina seems to straighten up a little, expression impassive. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> If I could see that dossier, please. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina snatches it from Washington before he can hand it to her. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We're assembling in hangar bay two as soon as the team on the list is assembled. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Hm. North's not on the list. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York has fallen silent but does slowly raise a brow at Carolina. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> He's not? <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI checks over the datapad for any missed information. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Carolina, York, Wyoming, Florida, Washington. No North. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Maybe that's for the best... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida establishes a connection with Wyoming. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Reggie, if you're all ready to go, we'll be in hangar two. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming taps Agent_Florida's shoulder, all armored up. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Quite prepared, Butch. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida turns around. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Oh, there you are. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Ready as ever. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Want to make a gentleman's wager as to our scores? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Sure. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to get these guys back. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Excellent. Usual bets are on, a man in the shipping business owes me a favor, he could smuggle anything you like if you win. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Smuggling? Sounds shifty, but I guess I've seen do their fair share of the like. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> What's your wager? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Well, I know an ex-Spartan who works in ONI. If you're looking to go under the radar for whatever reason, he could probably accomodate you. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming chuckles. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Been networking, Butch? Excellent, you're on. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming turns and starts walking towards the hangar, quieting very fast.

<font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia enters a small, makeshift tent that is littered with rudimentary surveillance and analyses equipment. He carries his helmet tucked under his arm; his face is pallid and awash with swollen, pulsating veins and his dark hair has begun to grey. His rail gun is strapped to his armor, along with a plethora of other weapons and field equipment. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia nods at the Sangheili Zealot strapped to a scavenged operating table. The warrior has been stripped of his armor and restrained, glaring hatefully up at the rogue Freelancer as he approaches. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Evening, buddy. Finally decided to wake up, huh? <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia ducks to avoid the gob of spit that is sent flying in his direction. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> A little gratitude would be nice. Shame I couldn't let the rest of your unit live the way I did you, but that's the way it goes. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I'm doomed to be unappreciated wherever I go, it seems. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia draws closer to the captive zealot, who writhes furiously on the pallet and snarls at him in a flurry of alien curses and threats. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia ignores the alien's fury and instead rummages in one of his chest pouches. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I let you live because I know guys in your position have access to certain bits of information. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> And unfortunately for you, that's information I need. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia pulls out several vials and checks them against the tent's dim lighting as the Zealot's hateful tirade continues. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Yeah, yeah, oaths of the faithful and all that. I'm a big fan. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia 's face twitches slightly and a slight spasm courses through his body. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia takes one of the vials and injects it into his arm, trembling slightly as the spasms subside. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia glances back down at the struggling Zealot, pity emanating from eyes that hold no sign of hatred. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> And unfortunately for you, I don't have time to ask nicely. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> So we do things the hard way. The ONI way. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I'd thank Mont for teaching me how to handle an interrogation, if she were still alive. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> So I guess I'll just have to honor her memory by doing a damn good job of it here. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia bends down and quickly injects two of the vials into the zealot's neck. The Sangheili begins to spasm and jerk fitfully, crying out prayers for deliverance amid his shrieks of pain. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia looks down at his captive again, then cries out and staggers as another spasm racks his body. He is forced down to his knees before the suffering Sangheili, as if sharing the warrior's pain. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Damn it... damn it.... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I'm sorry... so sorry... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> But it's the only way... <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia straightens slowly, eyes hardening as he stares down at his captive. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Now. Tell me everything about your "holy sites."

<font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina turns to Agent Florida. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Butch, I want everyone suited and armed, assembled in the hangar in thirty. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida snaps to attention. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Yes, ma'am. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida turns and leaves the room, with York and Washington. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington follows behind Florida. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York heads immediately out of the door as soon as he hears that, towards the armory. His helmet's curled under his arm, and he clamps it over his head. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI slides the door shut as the others leave. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Okay, time for your armour. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI opens the metal closet in the side of the room. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Stand in the middle and hold still. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Raise your arms horizontally. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina steps in and follows Tex's commands. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI activates the mechanisms in Carolina's armour to sync with the ones on her jumpsuit, assembling her armour piece by piece in less than thirty seconds. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Dr. Halsey showed me how to do that a while ago. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> She's looking into design something like that for her Spartans, but at the moment it's not precise enough to be handled by anything less than an AI like...well, me. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Even most of the UNSC's smart AIs can't do that yet. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina steps out, footsteps clunking slightly. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Well, it's certainly more efficient. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Yeah. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> The doctor used to tell me how her first suits took at least half an hour to gear up onto a Spartan. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, if you're all ready to go, grab those weapons and we'll meet the others in the hangar. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida arrives at hangar bay 2 and walks up the ramp in the stealth shuttle. * CMDR_Serin_Osman nods at Florida as he enters. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> The others are on their way, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Agent Wyoming has already checked in and is in the operations room. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida gets the message and salutes before walking off into the ops room. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington checks the ammo counter on his battle rifle, then heads into the shuttle. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina removes her weapons from the closet and heads for the hangar. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming is studying a readout of the Kasserine's Pass on the holotable, analyzing optimal shooting positions in the larger sections. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Hey, Reggie. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida steps up to the holotable. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming nods. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> ONI really likes their high-tech gear. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We never got anything like this for Project Freelancer. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> That they do. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida examines the holotable. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming observes Florida running a hand over its edge. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> This thing is way more advanced than the one we have on board the Mother of Invention. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Something you fancy about it? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Not a TE-21? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Look, it can actually project the entire extra-atmospheric space around the planet. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> It does have a rather detailed range. Perhaps it's the data sources it's connected to? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> So, where's Makosky going to be aboard this wreck? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> The bridge, probably. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> If not, I'm sure we can find him. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York has his shotgun fully loaded and enters the hangar. Several shells are attached to his bracers, as he moves into the shuttle. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York scratches his helmet and peers down to the holotable. * CMDR_Serin_Osman glances up from her notes as Carolina steps aboard the shuttle. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Major O'Connell. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina regards Osman with a distasteful expression under her visor. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Commander. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I suppose I'll start the debriefing now that you're all here. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Come with me. * CMDR_Serin_Osman stands up and walks towards the ops room. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> There's something weird about that spook. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> More than the others, I mean. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington watches Osman with narrowed eyes behind his visor, but follows after her without a word. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I get the feeling she's a nastier breed than we're used to, which is saying something. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida turns to see Osman enter, and steps aside to make room. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina smirks, as she's on a closed channel without external audio. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Our shuttle will be leaving the Mother of Invention now, and heading en route to the Kasserine Pass. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We've detected that the ship is slowly approaching Ariel, possibly to attain resources from one of our dig sites. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI 's avatar appears over the holotable. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That guy is an idiot. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> It's like he's asking for us to kill him. * CMDR_Serin_Osman 's mouth twitches in a very slight smile. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Then I should think we would be polite enough to accept the invitation. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York shakes his head, unable to grasp the absurdity of it. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Now, the shuttle is estimated to be within range of the ship in forty-three minutes. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina is unusually quiet, staring at the Kasserine Pass with arms crossed. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> There are no escorts accompanying it, and we can be certain that the ship is isolated. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> What's our entrance strategem? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> There are eight single-occupant pods on board this shuttle. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Ah, there's what I was looking for. Hot drop, eh? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> They work similarly to Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicles, used by Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> But with two key differences. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> One, they are designed for off-planet insertions rather than landings. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> And two, they use miniscule stealth engines that will not be detected. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> These engines remain dormant in the pod until activated, and then they have a lifespan of ten minutes before losing power. Single use only. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington steps up and indicates the holographic image of the Kasserine Pass. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> In that case, we might want to change our approach vector if we don't all want to die before we even reach the ship. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> You've got the weapons layout all wrong here. * CMDR_Serin_Osman raises an eyebrow. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> The point defense systems are laid out on both sides of the ship, to maximize coverage. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> You seem to think they're all clustered at the top of the ship. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Those are the ones that are most likely to detect your approach, Agent Washington. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> But that's not what you need to worry about, provided you maintain this trajectory. * CMDR_Serin_Osman taps a button and five red lines appear from space to connect to the Kasserine Pass. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I presume you've taken the secondary weapons on the starboard side offline, Agent? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York folds his arms, still listening. He thinks it's best he doesn't open his trap for once. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> You could presume that, yeah. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Good. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> But since sabotage was never part of my mission, and since the ship's crew runs routine maintanence checks... <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Well, let's just say you shouldn't count on them being offline. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Assumptions get people killed. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We've been monitoring Makosky for weeks now, and he hasn't had any external resources to replace his damaged components. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> And according to your report, he doesn't do regular maintenance checks on the secondary weaponry unless it's after a direct engagement. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington shrugs. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Your call, commander. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> It's only our funerals, after all. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> I'm confused at how this guy is a General... <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I doubt he has enough money to keep the ship in top shape anyway. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Now, this is the hard part. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> You will deploy from the shuttle and aim for the Kasserine Pass's secondary missile tubes. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> You will find the missile tubes empty, if Agent Washington here has done his part correctly. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> It should be easy for you to break through into the maintenance tunnels and go from there. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> After that, it shouldn't be difficult for you to locate the General and take him out. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We have to do this while the ship is moving? <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida raises an eyebrow. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Yes. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Routes are preprogrammed, correct? We're not going to have to eyeball it, I hope. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York scratches his shoulder pad. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> How many enemies are we looking at? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Estimate between two hundred eighty to four hundred. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Total crew? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Ground personnel. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> So that's a lot of security. . . <CMDR_Serin_Osman> The total crew consists of roughly seven hundred soldiers. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Five against seven-hundred and a crazed General. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Sounds like fun. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We can't risk sending in any more or you'd be detected on approach. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York smirks behind his visor. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Which is why it's essential that you set the ship's engines for detonation and evacuate after completing your primary objective. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Just another day at the office, Flowers.

<CMDR_Serin_Osman> We have the Kasserine Pass in sight, deploying in three minutes. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Okay people. I want everyone locked and loaded. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington performs a last minute equipment check. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Good luck, Freelancers. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Right, lads. Let's have at it! <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming heads towards his pod. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida attaches his weapons to his pod and straps himself in before shutting the lid. * CMDR_Serin_Osman returns to her command console in the shuttle's navigation station, ready to begin the operation. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York lifts his shotgun and peers at it before strapping it to his back, strapping himself into the pod and shutting it. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington settles into his pod. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Reggie, if I hear a knock knock joke in the next few minutes... <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Oh, perish the thought, York. Missile tubes are hardly the front door. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida chuckles. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI 's avatar disappears and takes residence in Carolina's head. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Ready? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Ready. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina straps into her pod, checking the systems one last time. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Launching in ten seconds. On my mark. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI seals the hatch on Carolina's pod. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Here we go. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Sync up. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Mark. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida launches his pod, ejecting out of the shuttle without a sound. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming launches, feeling the rumble of the thrusters and nothing else in the vacuum. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York 's pod is spat out from the shuttle, drifting off inside the vacuum of space. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI adjusts Carolina's trajectory, aiming her pod at the Kasserine Pass looming like a giant spectre in the blackness of space. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) So far so good. No sign that they've detected us yet. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina tries to remain calm, though her stats reveal how nervous she really is. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Missile tubes are marked on your HUDs. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington yawns wearily inside his pod as it tumbles through space. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) Weird...they still haven't noticed us yet. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) They're not supposed to, Agent York. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina grits her teeth as some minor nausea washes over her. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI steadies Carolina's vitals as much as she can. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Their sensory equipment isn't exactly top of the line. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Okay, two hundred metres and closing. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Now where are those ports. . . <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) How are we going to make a vertical insertion on a ship moving in a perpindicular direction? <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) I agree. I'm not exactly sure if this is even going to work... <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) The Kasserine Pass is currently holding position and drifting at a speed of 17 kilometres per hour. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Maybe they found your sabotage, Wash. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) Oh. That makes more sense. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) They're too late to stop us at this point. Entry will be a bit jarring but you should be able to make it. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) "Should". <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Why does that sound like an understatement to me? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM) Quit your bitching. Stay focused. We have to do this right. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina bites down another wave of nausea. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) I sense violence in our near future.

<font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader (9968b165@gateway/web/freenode/ip.153.104.177.101) has joined #halo-fanon <Adam_Makosky> What the hell is going on? * Adam_Makosky speaks furiously into his COM, trying to contact his crewmen. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) What do you mean one of the missiles blew? <Adam_Makosky> (COM) I don't care. Shut up. I'm heading to the bridge. And then I'm going to lynch the one responsible for this. * Jack_Carlson (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has joined #halo-fanon * ChanServ gives voice to Jack_Carlson <Jack_Carlson> (COM) Sir? What's going on? <Adam_Makosky> (COM) Some idiot damaged the weapons. I'm going to check it out. <Jack_Carlson> (COM) But what about our mission to Ariel? <Adam_Makosky> (COM) Forget that, we have to keep all systems— * Adam_Makosky breaks off as he hears more reports. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) What? Dead crew? Gunfire? * Adam_Makosky swears. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Makosky, what's going on over there? The Charon's picking up some weird activity on the Kasserine. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) I don't know! Where are you? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Inbound. We can provide fire support in about five minutes. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) What's your situation? <Adam_Makosky> (COM) I'm getting reports of firefight all over the place! <Adam_Makosky> (COM) Can you come and help? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) I'll try to cover you with the Charon's guns. As for direct help... <Adam_Makosky> (COM) Can you get aboard the ship? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) I'll deploy a team. Georgia will lead a squad and secure the bridge. * Adam_Makosky turns the corner and sees Carlson. <Jack_Carlson> Sir! <Adam_Makosky> Carlson, I need to get to the bridge. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Tex, can you shut the hangar doors? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Working on it. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Damn. They're trying to seal off the ship. Georgia... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> (COM) Already on it, boss. <font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader brings the Charon's weapon systems online as the ship maneuvers within range of the Kasserine. * Adam_Makosky hears new reports. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) What? * Adam_Makosky turns a channel to the ODST leader. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) Are you pointing your guns at us? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Georgia has just told me about the situation there. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) You have an entire team of freelancers onboard. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) You're already dead. * Adam_Makosky curses. <Adam_Makosky> (COM) You rat bastard! <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Your sacrifice will be honored. <Adam_Makosky> Carlson, we need to move now! * Jack_Carlson draws his weapon. <Jack_Carlson> On it, sir. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Open fire. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Hey, guys. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI manipulates the Kasserine Pass's weapons to point at the Staff of Charon. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Say cheese. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI opens fire on the Staff of Charon, tearing into its hull with devestating rounds of fire. <font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader braces himself as the Charon shudders. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Damn. Evasive maneuvers! <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI calculates the Charon's movements, easily predicting its evasive manoevres and maintaining deadly fire on it. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Let's see if we can't tear that thing apart. * Adam_Makosky runs down hallway after hallway, cursing at the sound of muffled explosions and alarms, as well as the shouting of panicked men. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Damn. Since when are their guns so accurate? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Withdraw! Withdraw!

<font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Okay, there's the missile tube. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI adjusts Carolina's entry to compensate for the horizontal movement. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Here goes. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI hears the pod's left side scrape against the missile tube but otherwise enter smoothly. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Slowing down now. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Not bad. My turn? <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida manoevres his pod as carefully as he can towards the missile tube, inserting the front end in almost perfectly. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Hey, that wasn't so ba— <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida 's face slams into his console as the rear end is snagged by the missile tube's wall, sending the pod clumsily flipping into the tube. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Ow...ow...ow...oww... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida is thrown around rather violently as his pod bumps noisily up and down each side of the tubing before coming to rest at the end. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) All yours, York. I want to give Butch a good head start. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina opens her eyes and attempts to calm her pounding heart. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Real smooth, Flowers. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Hey, I didn't get an AI to help me with this. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) Tsch. Here I come. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI stops the pod at the end of the missile tube, right next to the openable hatch leading to maintenance. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York enters smoothily, even more so than the others. The sound of the pod scraping against the tubing echoes down below. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington directs his pod towards its designated missile tube. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) I bet Delta did most of the work as usual, huh York? <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) Of course. I'd never be as smooth as that, you know me. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) And I didn't have a ticket. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming begins being lined up with Gamma's help. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina exits her pod, pulling out her battle rifle. She kicks open the hatch and immediately guns down the two crewmen who stop to stare at her. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM) Status report! <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) I'm not detecting anyone else in the hallways. We're clear for now. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida exits his pod and kicks open the hatch as well, stepping down to meet Carolina. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) I'm alive, mostly. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York mutters to himself as the pod stops at maintenance. "Thanks, D." <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York exits the pod with his shotgun at the ready. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Agent_Washington, are you in? <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Almost... there... <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Let me see if I can access the ship's system and locate Makosky. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington 's pod rumbles into the tube, making a clean entry. He scrambles out and lands inside the hallway, rifle at the ready. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Right, I'm coming in behind you. . . oh dear. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI uses the maintenance network to branch out and gain access to the ship's surveillance. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Control, I've got a problem. My missile tube is occupied. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) What? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) No time to adjust. Gamma, I'm going to need your help here. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) You got enough room to squeeze around it? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Not now, Butch. But I'm going to be making a rather loud entrance, I suggest you move fast. I'll draw the responders away. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI runs hundreds of facial scans per second and starts matching them up with the picture of Makosky the team got during the briefing. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Got him. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) He's currently in the weapons centre, but it looks like he's leaving. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Wait, what do you have planned? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming has Gamma blow open his hatch and hangs to the outside of the pod. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI puts a tag on Makosky's location and attaches it to everyone's HUDs. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming jumps off as the pod continues to drift rapidly straight into the tube. He magnetizes his boots to the hull as the missile explodes in its tube, opening a crater in the ship's skin. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida stumbles as the explosion rocks the ship. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington grabs a nearby wall for support. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming doubles back to the opening, climbing inside as wreckage and asphyxiating rebels float by. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) What was that, Freelancers? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) I'll head for the hangar and draw them off. Just get Makosky, quickly! <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Uh, things got a little noisy, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Damn. Well, move fast then! <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming enters a room functioning as a makeshift airlock, and continues into pressurized quarters. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM) York, Washington, I need charges on the engine core, and fast! <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming sees a security team round the corner ahead, and quickly draws his sidearm, dropping the six-man team in all of five seconds. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) On it, Carolina! <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington advances towards the engine core. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) That's six for me, Butch. And I won't even count the ones that torpedo got. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Target is picking up pace. I think he heard the noise. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York runs into a five man team and blasts atleast three of them in the upper chest with his shotgun, then taking two more out with swift punches to the ribs and lower jaws. He hurries towards the engine core as fast as he can. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI plots out the three most likely routes Makosky would take, and sets intercept points to Carolina, Wyoming, and Florida's HUDs. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Florida, Wyoming, we'll split up and find Makosky. Florida will head for the weapons center. I'll take the bridge. Wyoming, take care of personnel. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming takes an assault rifle from one of the rebels, advancing onwards. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) On it, marm. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Copy that, Carolina. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida follows the route Tex planned for him, and moves off. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington follows York, providing covering fire with his battle rifle. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming 's path leads out onto a walkway overlooking the Kasserine's Pass' main hangar, filled with technicians and loitering soldiers below. He shoulders the assault rifle and draws Her Majesty. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York notices one rebel sneaking up behind Washington and pulls the trigger on his shotgun, but it clicks empty. Instinctively, he goes straight for his knife and shanks the poor guy in the neck. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Hello there, chaps! You all worked with Ulan, and that puts you in my little black book. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina bullrushes her way to the bridge, gunning down anyone unfortunate enough to get in her way. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming opens fire on the hapless rebels. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York quickly pulls the blade back out, sliding the bloody knife back into his holster. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Better watch your back, Wash. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington nods at York. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Yeah. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI marks hot spots to indicate where the enemies are, and plots them out for Carolina. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI also outlines what weapons each of them are holding, so she can form an attack plan before encountering them. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming sprints down the walkway, reloading, and drops to the top of a stolen Longsword fighter, taking down a half-dozen more troops with shots through multiple targets. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> They're turning the corner in five seconds. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina uses this to her advantage. She pulls out a grenade and tosses it, so that it will detonate right as they round the corner. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming picks off a number seeking cover as reinforcements arrive. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida enters a cafeteria and sees tons of surprised rebels turning to look at him. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Oh... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida dives behind the wall as gunfire sprays out the door. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York runs across a rather defunct door with Wash, kicking it open. The large door was the only thing in the way of the engine core. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina rushes ahead and quickly picks off those who survived the grenade, and takes one's shotgun. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Okay, then, guess we're not playing nice. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington moves forward, cutting down several more guards. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Wash, help me with the fireworks, will ya'? <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida tosses three frag grenades into the cafeteria, blowing apart the tables and the unfortunate soldiers inside. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming sees the reinforcements take cover behind a lightly-armored aircraft. Without hesitating, he shoots through the lightweight wood hull, killing the troops with shots through the craft. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina continues toward the bridge, noting how the forces guarding it have fallen into disarray, their morale virtually gone. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida takes advantage of the confusion to gun down the poorly-armed rebels. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> You know, if I didn't hate these guys, I'd feel sorry for them. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Oh well. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming tosses out a grenade and jumps down, taking better cover around a stolen Pelican and it's metal plates. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York notices one last rebel is still standing, slapping him across the face with the butt of his shotgun, before starting to load more rounds in. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Freelancers, we've got trouble. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) A destroyer-class vessel has just appeared on our radar. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM) ... What?! <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) What? How did you not see it before? <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> We're clear, Wash. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) It must have been trailing far behind the Kasserine Pass. Hiding in an asteroid field. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Right. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Let's get those charges planted. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Not exactly a new trick, if it's the ship I think it is. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM)... this doesn't change our objective. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Makosky has to die now. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Got an ID. It's the Staff of Charon. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Figures. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) They'll be coming to Makosky's rescue. Tex, can you shut the hangar doors? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Working on it. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Carolina, can you handle these goons on your own? I have to focus on keeping out the unwanted visitors. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I'll be fine! <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI makes note of Makosky's current location and corrects Carolina, Wyoming, and Florida's intercept points. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming continues slaughtering rebel soldiers remorselessly, making no distinction between men or women, solider or tech. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida clears the cafeteria and proceeds down the hallway, now filling with rebels with hastily armed weapons. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming is single-handedly forcing the rebel security and ground teams into retreat, but refrains from letting them fall back, preferring to kill them all. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York unholsters a pack of C12 shaped charges, setting them near a tight spot where the Innies can't see them if they try to defuse them. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina smashes through a defense team, breaking one guy's neck and using him as a meat shield while she kills the others with shotgun blasts. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York glances at the core and steps back, the detonator clasped to the right side of his waist. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming cuts off a retreating team with a grenade explosion and gunning them down in short order, moving on to the next cluster of remaining soldiers. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Hey, guys. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI manipulates the Kasserine Pass's weapons to point at the Staff of Charon. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> (COM) Say cheese. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI opens fire on the Staff of Charon, tearing into its hull with devestating rounds of fire. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> (COM) Fireworks are set. Tell me when to deto—...Tex, you're having way too much fun with that. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina picks off guards as she encounters them, cold and precise, nearing the bridge. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Right. Let's get clear. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York heads out of the engine core room, looking back at himself. * Jack_Carlson turns the corner with Makosky and sees Carolina standing on the other end amongst a slaughtered team of rebels. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, look who it is. <Adam_Makosky> Shit! * Jack_Carlson raises his gun and takes aim at Carolina. <Jack_Carlson> General, run! <Jack_Carlson> Get to the bridge! <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York looks back behind himself as he makes his way out of the engine core. * Adam_Makosky turns and makes a break for it, heading towards the bridge in another direction. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Don't let him get away! <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> D, minimum safe distance? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina charges at Carlson, blasting at him with her shotgun. * Jack_Carlson opens fire on Carolina, cursing as he tries and fails to land a hit on her constantly moving form. <Jack_Carlson> Damn, damn, damn, damn, damn! * Jack_Carlson avoids two shotgun shots and takes a third in the side. <Jack_Carlson> Ugh... * Jack_Carlson tries to keep Carolina at bay, although his aim is flagging. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina closes on Carlson and bats his weapon away, then kicks him in the midsection. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Piece of shit. * Jack_Carlson is thrown to the ground, doubled over. <Jack_Carlson> You...you won't beat us... * Jack_Carlson fumbles for his gun, which is lying on the ground next to him. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina hauls him up by the collar of his shirt, inscrutable behind her visor. <Jack_Carlson> You can kill me...but...we will win... <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> No, you won't. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina turns and slams Carlson into the wall, with enough force to shatter his ribs and spine. * Jack_Carlson crumples to the floor without a sound. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Have fun dying. * Jack_Carlson (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has left #halo-fanon <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina doesn't even regard him a second longer, just bolts after Makosky. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI manages to pick up on Makosky's location, directing the quickest route on Carolina's HUD. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> He's almost at the bridge. If he seals himself in... <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina sprints as fast as she can, pushing her suit's safety measures to the red zone. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Screw this. I'm going to take my time with him. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Agent York, Agent Washington, make your way to hangar bay six and secure an extraction for the others. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> (COM) Understood. We're pulling out now. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI picks up more enemies coming around the next few hallways. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> See if you can take them out without slowing down. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina literally runs over the first soldier, barreling past him at the speed of a truck. She punches another as she runs by, turning his head into a pulpy mass. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That works. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina tosses a grenade over her shoulder to finish off the other two. * Adam_Makosky sees soldiers running past him to head off Carolina, and keeps up his speed as much as he could, his breath becoming terrified. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina ditches the shotgun in favor of two SMGs, gunning as she runs, mowing down the opposition. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI decides to blow some pipes in the ship's walls, consuming the incoming enemies in a fiery explosion. * Adam_Makosky hears the explosion and stumbles, realizing that Carolina isn't far behind. <Adam_Makosky> Dammit, dammit, dammit... * Adam_Makosky turns the corner, breathing heavily as he leans against the wall. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina yells out, using her armor's audio output to amplify her voice. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> (COM) MAKOSKY! <Adam_Makosky> Shiiiiiiiiiiit... <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina jumps through the explosion, running into a hallway devoid of troopers. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York is sprinting between the walls of the ship, with Wash behind him. * Adam_Makosky tries to keep going, but is out of breath and has to regain his energy. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> He's right on the end of the hallway. I can hear him breathing. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina slows, expecting a trap or ambush, moving quietly despite the bulk of her armor. * Adam_Makosky suddenly leaps out of cover, hefting a rocket launcher, and fires a rocket right at Carolina. <Adam_Makosky> Die, UNSC scum! <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Shit! <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI locks down Carolina's armour, taking the hit of the rocket head-on. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That's all the power I can risk drawing from your suit. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina falls to the ground, practically unharmed. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> ... thanks... <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Get him, quickly! <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI unlocks the armour. * Adam_Makosky fires a second rocket at Carolina. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina sees the second rocket and leaps, vaulting up the wall and pushing off, sailing over the missile as it passes by. <Adam_Makosky> FUCK! * Adam_Makosky drops the launcher and backpedals, frantically running towards the bridge doors. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina lands on her feet and explodes into motion, after Makosky. * Adam_Makosky grabs the wall as he turns the corner, diving right into the bridge. * Adam_Makosky picks himself up and fumbles with the controls to lock the doors. <Adam_Makosky> Come on, come on... <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina closes in on the bridge door, Makosky in her sights. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI activates Carolina's speed unit and sets it to maximum power. <Adam_Makosky> No! <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> You... little... cockroach... * Adam_Makosky flinches as the doors slide shut, as Carolina collides right with it, denting it severely. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Dammit! * Adam_Makosky steps back, breathing heavily. <Adam_Makosky> Shit...how do I get out of here...how do I get... * Adam_Makosky turns around and sees to his disbelief that the entire bridge crew is dead. <Adam_Makosky> What... <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Carolina, you alright? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina groans. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> DAMMIT. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina stands and starts punching the doors in wild abandon, coming down off her adrenaline rush. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I can't access the bridge...something's been damaged inside it. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Dammit, dammit, DA—inside? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Yeah...I think someone's sabotaged the system before we did. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Weird...I had access to the bridge just a few minutes ago. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Hold still, you hit that door pretty hard. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI administers the biofoam injectors in Carolina's suit to stop the internal bleeding. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 taps Makosky lightly on his left shoulder. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Behind you. * Adam_Makosky slowly turns to see Tess standing before him. <Adam_Makosky> What the fu— <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 picks Makosky up like a ragdoll and throws him - not hard enough to kill, but still several feet. <Adam_Makosky> Aaaaaagh! <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> They didn't give me guidelines this time. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Guess I get to make it up as I go along. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 looms over Makosky, a gray giant without mercy. * Adam_Makosky falls to the floor, crawling on all fours as he tries to reach a crewman's pistol. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Oh no you don't. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 steps on Makosky's wrist, smashing it. <Adam_Makosky> AAAAHHH!!! <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Do you hear that? <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 picks him up again, hauling him by the throat. She stalks over to one of the still-functioning bridge computers and smashes him into it, electrocuting him but making sure he survives. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I hear... something. <Adam_Makosky> Ooooowwwwww....! * Adam_Makosky jerks and spasms as electricity courses through his bloodied body. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Not screaming loud enough. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> At least be enthusiastic. * Adam_Makosky is moaning as he lies amongst the broken shards of the computer. * Adam_Makosky tries to get up, but a bone in his leg is broken. * Adam_Makosky is sobbing with pain and terror as he sees Tess approach again. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 pulls him back and forces him to look at his crewmates. All of them are in various stages of dismemberment; it's obvious she took them out by hand. Their joints are oddly bent and they look like broken toys. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> You see what happens when you piss off my boss? <Adam_Makosky> Stop...please...no more... <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 laughs quietly, a humorless noise. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> It'll all be over soon. * Adam_Makosky stares at Tess in horror, one of his eyes squeezed shut and bloody with a piece of glass sticking through the eyelid. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 takes out her combat knife and presses the blade into Makosky's throat... then moves it down his chest, and farther. <Adam_Makosky> AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuggggggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...

* Adam_Makosky 's scream trails off to a gurgle as blood streams down his front. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> You know what a good day is for me, Makosky? <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Making some rebel scum eat his own balls. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Fortunately, you don't seem to have any. * Adam_Makosky is blubbering unintelligibly now. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> So we can skip right to the good part. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 withdraws the knife, speaking softly and coldly. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Now, Adam... tell me. What made all of this... * she gestures at the bridge, the dead crewmen * What made all of this worth it, hm? Can you tell me? * Adam_Makosky shudders and gasps with agony, as his life starts ebbing away. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 waits for a few seconds, then shrugs. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> I honestly don't care. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 takes Makosky by the head, her hand easily grasping his temples, and wrenches his head violently, snapping his neck in a single motion. * Adam_Makosky goes limp, his lifeless face still etched in terror. * Adam_Makosky (d1c37aba@wikia/Sonasaurus) has left #halo-fanon <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 then stands up, looking down at the body, and sheathes her knife. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Texas... what the hell is going on in there? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I have no idea... <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Sensors are still blocked...whoever's in there really doesn't want to be seen. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) I've cleared a path to the hangar, ma'am. Awaiting extraction with York and Washington. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina attempts to pry open the door, to find that it now gives way. She charges in, one SMG raised, only to see an armored human. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Freelancers, is your objective complete? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Come in, Freelancers. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) The Major seems to be occupied at the moment, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) I think I know why... <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 regards Carolina impassively. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina slowly lowers her gun, taking in the gruesome surroundings. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Who are you? <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI 's avatar flickers into view next to Carolina's shoulder. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> A Spartan, from the looks of it. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Never seen a Spartan have this much fun killing people though. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 remains motionless, with Makosky's blood spattered on her gray plating. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> But... why would ONI send us if they already sent this guy...? <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Beats me. ONI likes to work in weird ways. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Tess-B312, come in. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 acknowledges Osman's hail. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> (COM) Commander. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York has made his way through the busted doorway Carolina passed through, with Wash beside him. <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Pelican is prepped in the hangar, boss. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Jesus...did a mass-murder occur while I was busy? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Have you completed your objective, Lieutenant? <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> (COM) Mission was successful. Makosky KIA, along with his bridge crew. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Excellent. You will be extracting with the Freelancer team and return to the shuttle. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> (COM)... with them, ma'am? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Yes. And you will accompany them to Reach. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Colonel Holland will be awaiting you planetside once the Mother of Invention is in-system. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> (COM) I... yes, ma'am. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 clenches a fist. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI picks up on the exchange and raises a holographic eyebrow at B312. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina steps toward B312. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I'm Major O'Connell. I led the Freelancer strike team. You'll be rendezvousing with the others alongside me. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Yeah...that's an order. Lieutenant. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 seems to appraise Carolina, expression hidden by her visor, but exuding an eerie sort of icy confidence. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Yes ma'am. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina turns and leaves the bridge, with Tess following like a skulking shadow. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Agent York, prepare to blow the charges as soon as you're clear. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming straightens up as Florida and York approach. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Ah. Butch. . . 337. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida is waiting beside the stolen Pelican. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida grumbles. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Three-hundred and thirty seven confirmed kills. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> How'd you do? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Two-hundred ninety-one. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming throws his head back and laughs. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York counts his fingers. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Yeah, I lost count. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> You got a head-start though, so... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida climbs onto the Pelican and takes the pilot seat. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> No, if you remember, I did not count any who were killed in the explosion. And, I let you get here first. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Everyone on board. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York comes aboard the Pelican and flips open the detonator. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Wash, open the hangar for me? <font color=#C18900>< <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington <font color=#C18900>> Got it. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming climbs up and finds a seat, maintaining a solid enough grip on his rifle to begin caring for it, noticing scuffs he's allowed to remain. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> That just won't do. . . <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Hey, I'm getting anxious. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina reaches the Pelican and climbs inside. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 hesitates before entering the Pelican, nearly hostile at the sight of so many others. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida turns around and sees Tess climb on board as well. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington accesses his datapad and overrides the hangar bay controls. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Who's your friend, Carolina? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> A surprise from ONI. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida rolls his eyes. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I should have known. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 sits stiffly. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Isn't that all they give us? Surprises? <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Spartan Beta-Three-Twelve. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Nice to meet you, Spartan. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming ejects a spent shell from Her Majesty, catching the casing from mid-air as he checks over his weapon's action. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida closes the Pelican's hatch as the hangar doors open, lifting up the Pelican and flying out of the Pass. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 is still covered in Makosky and the bridge crew's blood among other things. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Alright, York. Blow her to hellgates. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York waves idly at Tess and peers down to the detonator. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Ladies and gentlemen, it's time for New Year's fireworks. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York slams his thumb down on the detonator and kablooooey. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina smiles grimly under her visor. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI is observing Tess closely, although she does take a moment to watch as an explosion tears through the Kasserine Pass's midsection, cutting the ship nearly in half before starting a chain reaction and ripping the entire ship apart. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Good riddance. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> A fresh start. Huh. Hard thing to imagine. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Commander. Any sign of that destroyer? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> (COM) Negative, it looks like they've cleared off. Guess they took quite a few hits as well. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> (COM) Wilco. We're en route now.

<font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming holsters his sidearm and drops next to a wounded man. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Sorry mate, no time to torture you today, so I'll just have to kill you. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming rips the man's neck open with a knife, staining his spotless armor with flecks of crimson. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> That's a weird sentiment, coming from you. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia emerges behind Wyoming. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stands and hurls the knife end over end into another rebel. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> What can I say, Georgia? Sometimes, you just can't enjoy your work. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming turns to face Georgia, the last of the rebels disappearing. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia looks at Wyoming for several moments. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> So. You too, huh? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Yeah. I'd say you've won, in truth. You were right. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Right? About what, exactly? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming shakes his head. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> About all this. About mercy, and looking out for yourself. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I tried to. . . <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming sighs. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I don't even know anymore. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia sighs wearily, and leans against the bulkhead, listening to the gunfire in the distance. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> You've won. In the end, all we are is killers. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> In the end... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Yeah, that's the future. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> A species composed of unstoppable killing machines. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Like Carolina. Like Texas. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Like the Elites. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> So do you want to kill me, Georgia? I wouldn't resist, except. . . I can't let you, now. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I have to live. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Not for my own sake, but for Sophie. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia shakes his head slowly. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I don't want to kill anyone, Reginald. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> And South? <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia looks away. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Just the latest victim in a long line of people I never wanted to kill. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Then why are you here? On a ship full of men you're betraying and ones you've already betrayed. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Because, I needed to retrieve something Makosky had. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Something I need for the things I'm planning. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Planning? Planning what? <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia hesitates, then looks back at Wyoming. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I'm going to end this war, Wyoming. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Before it turns the rest of humanity into... us. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Yes. . . we are the wretched, after all. I wish you luck. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Save them from their protectors. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia raises a hand, indicating the gunfire from the ceaseless slaughter all around them. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Wyoming... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Reginald... <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Yes, Arthur? <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia looks away, fists clenching and unclenching. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> You could come with me. We're already dead, but we can save the rest before they have to share this... hell. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I. . . <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming>. . . I can't, Georgia. I'm sorry. I have to stay. For the others, for the UNSC's attempts to protect everyone. . . for Sophie. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia nods. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Then this is good-bye, Reginald. I— <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia spasms suddenly, body contorting as jolts of pain rush through his limbs. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Auggh! <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming catches Georgia, steadying him. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I don't have... much longer... <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Georgia, what's happening? Arthur! <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I don't know what the Insurrection put inside me, Reginald. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> But it's eating me. Eating me from the inside out. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> What? Georgia, I don't understand. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I'll be dead soon. But not before I finish this job. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia grabs Wyoming's arm. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming>. . . I see. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Whatever happens after this, you have to live, Reginald. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Not you too. Don't you curse me, too. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> No... not the way... you're living now... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> This isn't living. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> What, then? What am I to do. . . <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia straightens, withdrawing a vial from one of his pouches and injecting himself. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming watches half in horror and half in pity. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Those who live by the sword will die by it. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> This is my punishment, for over five million lives I snuffed out. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia waves his hand at the carnage left by the battle. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Don't let this be you, Wyoming. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Don't be like me... or like Carolina. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> You can still save yourself. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming bows his head, biting back a sob. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I don't know if I can, Arthur. But I'll try. I will try. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Whatever happens after this... whatever I do, whatever they say about me... <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Know that everything I've done, I did because I love humanity. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> I'll know the truth. That your death, and all you've caused, meant something. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Had a purpose. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia begins to stagger away, picking his way over the bodies. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Thank you, Reginald. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Thank you for everything. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Just honor among traitors. Right, Arthur? <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Yes. There's still that. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia opens an encrypted channel to a source beyond the system. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> (COM) Holy warriors, I have liberated the relic's location from the unbelievers. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stares at Georgia uncomprehendingly. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> (COM) Ascendancy is within your reach. You need only stretch out your blades and seize it. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> (COM) Now, come. Let me guide you to the dwelling place of the gods. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming clicks the safety off his sidearm. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Arthur. . . <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> It won't consume you. I'll end it quickly. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia stops, his amplified hearing picking up the sound of the sidearm. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I can't let you do that. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I can't die just yet. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia turns, facing Wyoming with a cold confidence in spite of his wretched condition. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Reginald... don't make me kill you, too. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> But if I don't, what will happen to you? <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I will die, one way or another. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> But not until I've put an end to the killing, once and for all. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming leaves the pistol on its magnetic plate. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Can you stand on your own? <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Yeah. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> For now. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> But don't worry. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I have... allies. To help with the heavy lifting. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming cracks a grin. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> You're not that heavy. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia turns away and begins making his way down the hall again. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I think this is the last time we'll be seeing each other, Reginald. Good-bye. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Goodbye, Agent Georgia. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Good luck, old friend. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stands surrounded by bodies, the last one still breathing in the hangar. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> (COM) Major Carolina. . . all resistence belowdecks eliminated. The remainder appear to be abandoning ship. <font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader directs repair efforts on the Staff of Charon, which was heavily damaged by the engagement with the Pass. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> (COM) Georgia? Georgia? Where the hell are you? <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia moves through the Pass's hallways, impassively observing the trail of bodies left by the Freelancer teams. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Some things never change. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia moves into a side hangar and rests against the door before nodding at the ride that is waiting for him: a Spirit dropship crewed by Sangheili warriors. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Governors of Contrition. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> I have the relic's location. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Now, we should leave before the unbelievers destroy this vessel. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia is helped aboard by the warriors, who immediately fly the Spirit out of the hangar and into space. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York slams his thumb down on the detonator and kablooooey. <font color=#727272> * <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia feels the shockwave from the Kasserine's destruction through the Spirit's hull. <font color=#727272>< <font color=#A56542>Agent_Georgia <font color=#727272>> Damn... some things really never change... <font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader watches from a distance as the Kasserine implodes. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Damn it. I think they took out the whole crew. And was Georgia...? <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Was he still on board? <font color=#8E0000> * <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader shakes his head. <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Damn it... damn it... <font color=#8E0000>< <font color=#7C7C7C>ODST_Leader <font color=#8E0000>> Alright, get us out of here, before they pick us up.

<font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming withdraws a rag, cleaning bloodstains from Her Majesty's fine wooden stock. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 is quiet, then shifts. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> ...New Year's? <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina looks over at Tess. "An Earth holiday." <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 shakes her helmet slightly, not understanding the reference. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI crosses her arms and scrutinizes Tess. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Did they breed you in a test tube or something? <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 seems not to react, then shifts. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Mouthy AI. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming wipes the last of the blood from his rifle, and sees the stains on his gauntlets. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI twitches irritably. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I can probably find more ways to kill someone than you, Spartan. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> And more efficiently too. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> So less of the lip, would you. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 actually looks at Texas. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> I joined the UNSC before I hit double digits. <font color=#C18900> * <font color=#7C7C7C>Agent_Washington sighs and leans against the shuttle wall, ignoring the chatter around him. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Now now guys, play nice back there. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming pulls out a small flask, taking off his helmet and unscrewing the cap, inhaling the scent of the fine alcohol. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York peers over to Wyoming. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Is that Kentucky's bourbon? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming glances at York, and after a moment, smiles. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida pulls the Pelican into the shuttle's single hangar bay, settling it down on the landing pad. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 is the first one out of the Pelican, as if eager to leave. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI stares after Tess as she leaves. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> And this is exactly what I find wrong with Spartans. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> That other one we worked with didn't seem so bad. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> What, which one? <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Noble Team? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> There was one guy, a Chief Warrant Officer if I recall. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Didn't seem so... off. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, who knows. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Maybe you'll see him again. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming pours the fine bourbon over his bloodstained hands, letting it drip to the floor and carry the blood away with it. He begins scrubbing with the rag, cleansing his gauntlets. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York 's jaw drops at Wyoming, and rests a hand against his visor plate. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> What a waste... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida walks out of the Pelican's cockpit and steps off with the others. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Well, Reggie. I guess I owe you a special contact. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And Clyde, I'll have some info for you as soon as I can get it. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> That you do, Butch. That you do. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Guess I'll go work on that then. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Thanks, Butch. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Still can't believe you wasted perfectly fine bourbon, Reggie. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> It was time to stop with it. No more drinking for me. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 has already stalked over to the other side of the hangar. * CMDR_Serin_Osman looks up as Tess enters the command centre. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 salutes Osman stiffly. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Well done, Lieutenant. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I think Colonel Holland will be pleased to hear about your contribution to this operation. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Permission to speak freely, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Permission granted. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Why send those... knockoffs in the first place? I work best on my own. * CMDR_Serin_Osman gives a slight smile. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Don't be so quick to dismiss them, Lieutenant. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Every soldier does their part in the war. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> They were a convenient distraction at best. * CMDR_Serin_Osman mutters, "You don't have to be the best to do your best, I learned that the hard way." <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> If this was another one of Parangosky's attempts to force me into teamwork... * CMDR_Serin_Osman 's smile fades. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> ... well, it failed, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We'll see, Spartan. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> The next team you'll be assigned to will work very closely with you. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 tilts her helmet slightly, but does not react. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> And I think it would be the best use of your abilities if you don't insist on working alone all the time. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> Understood, ma'am. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Get yourself cleaned up, Lieutenant. And then get some rest. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 turns away, walking slowly as if stunned. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming watches the others leave and steps away himself, wandering around the side of the dropship. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stands in the shadow of the Pelican's wing, and reaches a clean, white hand into a pocket, withdrawing a set of half-bent aluminum tags reading "CMDR Onegin, Arthur". He scrutinizes them for a long moment before repocketing them, looking out into the stars beyond the hangar. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York looks out into space for a moment and comes to stand next to Wyoming under the wing of the dropship. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> You alright, Reggie? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Better, York. Better than I've been in a long time. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> If you'll excuse me. . . I think I've got some paperwork to review. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida walks alongside Carolina to make his report to Osman. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina passes B312 and regards her before moving into Osman's office. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida salutes as he enters Osman's office. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Welcome back, Freelancers. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> No casualties...good. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> If I may, Commander... <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina bites her lip. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Yes, Agent Carolina? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Why send us to kill a man who's already in the sights of... whatever that Spartan is? <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I guess you could call it a test. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Not just for Tess-B312. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> But for your team as well. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> All will be made clear once you're at Reach. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina looks like she has more questions, but holds them in. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Yes ma'am. * CMDR_Serin_Osman looks thoughtful. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> I suppose the purpose on B312's behalf was less important to the mission, but more important in...other ways. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> You've been a greater help than you think. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> Dismissed. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida snaps to attention. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Aye aye, ma'am. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina does likewise. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> We'll be back on board the Mother of Invention in one hour. <CMDR_Serin_Osman> In the meantime, get some rest. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming waits outside the office, nodding as Florida passes and falling in with Agent_Carolina. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina glances at Wyoming. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> You okay? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Aye, marm. I just. . . I believe I may have made an error on that transfer request. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> An error, huh. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina half-smiles despite her exhaustion. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> It's most embarrassing, I assure you. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I'm sure I can take care of it without a fuss. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI appears beside Carolina's shoulder. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> So what made you change your mind? <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming smiles knowingly. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> 'Fraid I can't say. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, either way I can't say I object. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Just that. . . it was all for a reason. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, are you two going to get some rest or what? <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Ah, yes. I suppose it would be prudent. <font color=#FFFFFF><Agent_Wyoming> Marm. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming snaps a salute. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Carolina, you still have some injuries I couldn't treat on the ship. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> You collided with those reinforced doors pretty damn hard. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina winces as a muscle in her back pulls, but manages to return the salute. <font color=#FFFFFF> * Agent_Wyoming stands down and departs, going to give his armor an extra scrubbing before turning in. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Not the first time you met a solid wall of metal at blinding speed, I have to say. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina falls into sort of a limp as she continues on. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York notices Carolina's limping. He walks over and helps support her. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Next time, Victoria...don't go running into doors. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI flickers out of view to keep an eye on Tess. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> ... ah, thanks... Clyde. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I thought I had Makosky. I knew exactly how I'd put a bullet through his brain. But someone else beat me to it. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York sighs wearily. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Things are hammering down on us. That Spartan coming was...unexpected. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> But we still pulled together. We're learning to deal with... unexpected. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida looks up as Carolina and York enter the small medical room. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> I guess so. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Okay, armour off, Carolina. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida opens a case of medical supplies. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina smiles at York. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Lie down on that bed, if you please. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina complies, grunting from the movements. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida quickly gets the armour off Carolina and starts checking over her injuries. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Geez. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> This is the second time you've run into a reinforced metal door, Carolina. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> That's what I said. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Yeah well, last time it was your fault, Tex. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> It was not! <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida laughs. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina sees the bruises and frowns. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> If I'd known the bastard was taken care of, I wouldn't have tried. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> What did Osman mean when she said it was a test though...? <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> I'm not sure. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida gives Carolina some painkiller and starts treating her wounds. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Guess we'll find out once we're at Reach. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Speaking of Reach... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida looks at York. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I've got some info on your sister. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Give it to me. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida hands a datapad to York. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Sergeant Amelia Dawson, Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York springs to life and looks over to Butch. His helmet's off, showing that his working eye has a rather excited glint. He clutches it, taking it from Flowers. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> 15th Marine Regiment. 28th Shock Troops Battalion, Alpha Company. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Alive and well, as you'll be glad to hear. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York puts a hand to his chest and sighs with relief. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Okay, that's good to hear. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And I've confirmed that she's currently at Reach. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#58C6E1>Agent_Carolina raises an eyebrow. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> Been a while since you told me anything about Amelia, Clyde. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York nods at Carolina. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> So it has. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'm sure I can pull a few favours, get us assigned to work with the Company once we're there. <font color=#58C6E1><Agent_Carolina> No argument from me. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Alright. That's...that's good to hear. She'll be proud of what I made of myself, though uh... <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York lifts a finger and points at his blind eye. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> She'll have a field day about this. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Well, I'm sure Maine can answer that for your sister. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> If he could talk, that is. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York chuckles and shakes his head at Tex. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Well, at least Makosky's out of the way. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Tell me about it. It sure didn't look pretty. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> There is something very wrong with that Spartan... <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Spartans are brutal, but I didn't think they were...bloodthirsty. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> I just hope we won't have to see her again once we're at Reach. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Don't jinx us ... <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida looks down and sees that Carolina has slipped away to sleep from the sedatives. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Let's give her some time to rest. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'll wake her up once we're back on board the Invention. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> Guess I'll keep an eye on her. <font color=#7C7C7C><Agent_Texas|AI> York...we'll find your sister in no time. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Hell yes we will. <font color=#7C7C7C> * Agent_Texas|AI nods and disappears. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 sits in a quiet corner of the ship's armory, checking her personal array of weapons. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Come on, Clyde. Let's catch a few hours of z's while we can. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And the sooner we get back, the better. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> We really should check up on North. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York nods at Florida. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> I'm feeling for him right now. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Next stop is Reach. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I think it'll do him some good to get back into the fight, sooner or later. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And if I know ONI, they're not sending an entire ship of Freelancers all the way there for nothing. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida sighs. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I have a feeling it won't be long before we're back to fighting aliens again. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Can't say I like seeing those bastards invading our planets. <font color=#FFFFFF>< <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York <font color=#FFFFFF>> Those hingeheads would give me nightmares if I were a civvie about now. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida grins. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Guess the service saved you then. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Your sister will be glad to hear that. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And hey...it'll be like a homecoming for you. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Going back to Reach as a different person. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'll be able to find her, don't you worry. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida reaches the sleeping quarters and opens the door. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida steps inside, nodding at Tess-B312. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 doesn't even acknowledge Florida's presence, despite his rank. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York steps inside as well, giving one last, rather sleepy yawn. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida sits against one of the beds, watching North's sleeping form for a moment before turning his gaze to Tess fiddling with her equipment. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Already preparing for your next mission, Lieutenant? <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 is silent, then puts her rifle down. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> That's classified. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Naturally. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida gives an amused smile. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> You know I work very closely with ONI, Lieutenant. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I've caught some words about you once or twice. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> That's funny. Technically I don't exist. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Not to most people, no. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> To most people, you're just another Beta that died on Pegasi Delta. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Which is why I'm surprised the Commander let you be seen by the others like this. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida shrugs. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Guess ONI always has a plan. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida lays back in bed, hands crossed behind his head and staring at the ceiling. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 pulls off her helmet slowly, then turns and looks at Florida. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> That's why I'm worried. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> If I exist again, something big is coming. Something bad. <font color=#9B9B9B><Tess-B312> They don't resurrect the dead for nothing. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida closes his eyes. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I already have a feeling to what it is. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> But I could be wrong. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> ...I hope I'm wrong. <font color=#FFFFFF> * <font color=#D6B883>Agent_York is away and slumbering. He snores rather loudly... <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Still, time will tell. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> They're bringing every Freelancer left to Reach. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Not a long way off from Ariel, if you ask me. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And the Covenant were here not four months ago. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> Put the pieces together, Lieutenant. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> It's not that difficult to figure out. <font color=#0068B2> * Agent_Florida drifts off to sleep. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> And God knows how many Spartans from other systems. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> I'm not allowed to tell you how many, but you get the gist. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> The others may not like you very much, but I personally feel like we stand a better chance in a fight with you around. <font color=#0068B2><Agent_Florida> So, if you're not here when I wake up, and that wouldn't surprise me at all...good luck, Spartan. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 is grimfaced, eyes narrowed to slits. <font color=#9B9B9B> * Tess-B312 looks down at her rifle and then slings it over her back, putting the helmet back on and walking out.