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Post by Lucius Alar on Nov 5, 2010 0:37:07 GMT
The Unknown War 1-5
Lucius, turning to Daniel whispered, “This place looks exactly like an airport.” It had been only a few hours of space flight and the two veterans and Lucius were in the interplanetary space hub. The hub, as Lucius had just said, bared a striking resemblance to a common airport. The terminals were very similar to the regular ones of a airport, even the shops were similar. The three felt a little lost, but were able to find their gate in the last portion of the hub. “This isn’t good,” said Kurt, “If we get caught in security, we’ll be cornered in this gate, then we’ll be done for good.” Lucius quipped, “We’re done for anywhere in here.” “You’re right,” Daniel said.
“Alright,” said Daniel, “Remember the plan.” Lucius and Kurt went and took a seat in the gate, while Daniel went up to the ticket counter. The veteran, acting completely nonchalant, handed in his ticket to board the craft to Apothos. After boarding, Kurt got up to “use the bathroom” (he was really just using it as cover to blend in with the general public), and Lucius, shortly after Kurt got up, went to the ticket counter and boarded. After nearing the entrance to the spacecraft, he realized the true intensity of the mission he had just undertaken. Guards were everywhere on the shuttle. One was at the lavatory, three were guarding the cockpit, and four were at the entrance. Lucius knew that if anything went wrong, not only would he be facing a huge amount of enemy soldiers in close quarters without a weapon, but he would also have to avoid civilian casualties. Mistakes would not be tolerated.
Lucius showed his fake I.D. and boarding pass to the head guard at the entrance. The man looked at the I.D. inquisitively, then back at Lucius. The sniper’s adrenaline kicked in. Questions whirred through his brain: Is he suspicious? Does he know me from somewhere? The I.D. isn’t working is it? Despite, a momentary panic, Lucius kept his cool. He simply maintained a non-threatening complexion and smiled back. The guard took one last look at the I.D. Lucius could feel tension building in his throat as he became nervous again. He was about to snatch the I.D. from the guard’s hands when the man said, “Alright, you’re clear; enjoy your flight.” Lucius returned, “Thanks.” He grabbed his I.D. and boarding pass and went to his seat seeing Kurt following close behind.
The flight was a relatively comfortable experience, nothing like the jolting AU infantry transports. Though a little rough on entry into Apothos’ atmosphere, the ship’s pilot maintained a soft landing and the passengers aboard began to exit. Since the ship had landed in the spaceport in the Slums of Apothos, the passengers merely exited the craft onto the runway. The three AU soldiers met with each other just by a road near the runway. Daniel spoke, “Alright, were going to meet our contacts in a local diner just down the way,” he pointed. “Come on, the faster were off the streets of these slums the better.”
Even as the three traveled the narrow twisting roads in the Apothos Slums, Lucius couldn’t help but notice that the place was very nice. The buildings were government made and were nice but unkempt, but the only true eyesores that existed were the huge derelict skyscrapers that towered everywhere making Lucius feel claustrophobic and small. The three walked into a diner and sat down. They had to admit that they were a little hungry, so they had a waiter bring them a menu. The waiter, putting the menus on the table, silently walked away from them. Kurt picked up a menu and then said, “Hmmm, interesting. I think were supposed to meet in an old abandoned skyscraper down the road a ways; I believe it’s the old Kromwell & Co. building.”
Daniel, slightly surprised, said, “And just how do you know for sure.” “…Because that waiter was our contact,” Kurt said looking up from a menu with writing on it. Daniel turned in his seat just in time to see the door to the diner close behind the waiter as the man left. Running to the door, Daniel ran into the street looking for the contact, but he had seemingly vanished into thin air. With Lucius and Kurt walking out of the diner behind him, Daniel turned to the two soldiers and said, “Yeah, that was him, let’s move. I already feel out of place.”
The three continued down the crowded street and approached a fenced off skyscraper. After entering the main lobby through a hole in the fence of the dilapidated structure, Kurt turned to see an old homeless man in shabby clothes sitting reading in the dark. The homeless man looked up at the three and asked, “What business have you in my humble abode?” Kurt returned, “A certain waiter sent for us here, might you know who we mean?” “Thirty-seventh floor first door on the right,” said the man, “Happy climbing…” Kurt said coolly, “You mean there are no stairs?” The homeless man just laughed.
Lucius climbed stairs in the dark with Kurt and Daniel for what seemed like ages until finally the three made it to the door. “Here goes,” said Lucius. Opening the door, the three were met with the most welcoming thing they had seen in a while. A huge smuggler banner strung across a large entryway into a hangar-like area met them. The huge room had obviously been carved out inside of the skyscraper to allow for a huge but camouflaged area of operations for the smugglers. However, Lucius, Kurt, and Daniel were met with only one man, a waiter.
“Wow,” the waiter said, “You guys got here fast. I didn’t even have time to change!” At this last statement he chuckled a little. “Welcome,” he continued, “I am glad to have you guys here finally; I trust your trip went well, no?” “It went fine, thank you,” said Lucius. “What do we do now?” asked Kurt. “Well, you will unpack your various things and I will introduce you to your first mission on Apothos. By the way, the name is Frank; I’m your new communications operator. I wish I could give you a warmer welcome, but seeing as how we’re thirty-seven stories up, things tend to be a little chilly.” Daniel, Kurt, and Lucius silently agreed to withhold any further questions. The three didn’t feel like going on a mission this soon, but they knew they had no choice. This was an unknown war, and billions were counting on them to win it.
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Post by Kurt Fletcher on Nov 17, 2010 2:54:43 GMT
The Unknown War 1-5-2
Cold wind forced its way into the thirty-seventh floor of the skyscraper. Kurt though about when he was stationed with the marines in Florida back on earth; the warm heat, the soothing sand, that refreshing tropical breeze, that… His train of thought was suddenly broken by franks voice.
Frank: Ok, well let’s go get you guys some weapons, eh?
Lucius was disappointed realizing that he would not be able to use his customary weapons. He would have to familiarize himself with some a run-of-the-mill assault rifle. His thoughts soon changed as Frank led them through the skyscraper to level thirty-eight. His jaw dropped when Frank opened the door to the level of the building revealing a storehouse of weapons; the three soldiers could only guess that every weapon known to mankind was in there. Even more amazing was the fact that every weapon was categorized in neat order.
Frank: Some good old smuggler hospitality my friends! It’s not much, but I think you’ll find what you need.
Daniel: This is more than enough…thank you.
Daniel and Kurt found their usual weapons and Lucius found a sniper rifle, but as soon as he picked it up, Kurt grabbed it from him and replaced it with a different weapon. Lucius frowned as he looked at the weapon in his hand, an EA M24 Tactical Assault Gun.
Lucius: “What was that for? I’m a sniper; I am not good at close quarters.
Kurt: “You’ve got to start sometime…”
Lucius felt somewhat worried, but they were right; he did have to start sometime.
Daniel: Thanks for the weapons Frank. Now let’s get back to the thirty-seventh floor…Frank, could you also get us a map.
Frank: Sure.
They walked back down to the lower floor and Frank brought out a map. Together, the group examined it. Kurt, looking closer at the map, noticed that Apothos was a lot bigger than he had at first thought. He realized that figuring out their first move would be a much larger task than any of them had imagined. Kurt said, “What’s this?” as he pointed to a spot on the map where a huge facility seemed to be. Frank answered, “That’s an APM supply depot. It receives shipments by boat from a small river that runs through the city; then it distributes the supplies. There are many like it. In addition, dreadnoughts and supply ships are often seen landing at this depot. That probably means that it is also a resupply base for APM’s domestic and inter-planetary forces.”
Kurt asked, “How well is it guarded?” “Very well, to say the least,” said Frank, “It is surrounded by walls, gates, Checkpoints, and it has a large garrison of troops.” “What about air support?” interjected Lucius. “Several helicopters are stationed there at all times.” “Interesting…” said Daniel. “I think we should hit this place first,” Kurt suggested. “Yes, it will be a hard hit to the APM if we can pull it off,” Daniel concurred. “But you heard Frank. Let’s just remember that it is extremely well guarded; what exactly do you intend to do?” “Destroy it completely,” said Daniel. “But it is impossible to get into, and even it we could get in we’d be out numbered one hundred to one.” “That’s why we have a plan.” “Okay then, what’s the plan?” “When I think of it, you’ll be the first to know” “Well that’s just dandy; what now?” Kurt, who had been quiet for the past minute or so, said, “Go get some rest, it’s going to be a long night.” Frank motioned to the corner, “There’s a cot over there.” Lucius walked over to the cot and laid down. As he stared at the ceiling, he could hear Kurt and Daniel whispering and trying their vest to formulate a plan.
Kurt said, “Daniel, how about we go into the city sewer system and try to make our way beneath the depot and break in?” But Daniel answered scolding, “Kurt, come on! That only works in the movies. Besides, we wouldn’t know where we could end up just crawling through some random man hole to the surface. Remember what happened last time we did that, we opened the sewer cover, and it was the middle of the enemy base. Then after being put on a boat I spent the next six months trying to escape from prison, which thankfully that all worked out.” “Wait, what did you say?” “I said after being put on a boat-” “That’s it! A boat! That is the way into the supply depot! We sneak onto a boat that brings supplies to the depot, and then we find a few supply crates big enough to hold people. We hide in those until we’re well inside the base.” “That’s a long shot, but it’s all we got.”
Daniel walked over to Lucius who looked fast asleep and said, “Lucius we decided on a plan its-” “I heard every word,” said Lucius. “Um… okay, good. Since we don’t know how exactly this is going to work, most of the plan will be impromptu. You’re going to have to act quickly, and think even faster and all of that with clarity of mind. Now get some sleep, I’ll wake you up in five hours.”
Three figures ran across the bank of an Apothos river. Kurt said, “Lucius hurry up with that inflatable raft. We have to be in position when the “Typhoon” gets here.” Kurt mentally imagined the ship as Frank had described it. The cargo ship was about the size of a yacht, just small enough to navigate the Apothos rivers. It had an enormous cargo hold in the center, but strangely enough it was not well-guarded. “Wait,” thought Kurt, “How did Frank know so much about this ship?” He answered himself, “Oh! Frank is a smuggler.” He chuckled, “He’s probably raided the ship a hundred times, which explains the size of the armory in the skyscraper.”
Daniel’s voice rattled over the comlink, “Switch to night vision.” Everyone did as they were told revealing the “Typhoon” about 500 yards down the river. Kurt said, “Remember, the ladder is near the rear of the boat; we all need to be on it in a matter of seconds.” Daniel, speaking over the comlink, said, “Alright gentlemen, into the raft, and please keep low.” Lucius maneuvered the raft with a small paddle trying not to make a sound; he would have to time his approach perfectly. Now, the boat neared; it came closer and closer…
Lucius prepared himself: 5 seconds, 4 seconds, 3 seconds, 2 seconds, 1 second. He shoved out his hand and, with a grappling hook, he quickly hooked a rope to the bottom rung of the ship’s ladder. The “Typhoon’s” momentum jerked the small raft forward. Daniel commanded, “Lucius, hurry up the middle of the ladder.” Lucius, obeying quickly, scaled the ladder to the very top and waited. Kurt jumped from the boat to the ladder and climbed it so he just beneath Lucius. Daniel took a knife and slashed the inflatable raft; then he quickly jumped to the ladder. “Lucius, have look over the top and tell us what you see,” said Daniel. Lucius slowly peeked over the top of the ladder just enough so that he could get a glimpse of the deck. He looked around and spotted only two sailors on the deck, both of which were facing the opposite direction. He said, “We’re clear except for two guards on the other side; the steps leading to the supply room are on our immediate left.” Daniel replied, “Affirmative, we’re going to climb the ladder and break for the supply room on three. Remember don’t be seen. 3…2…1…GO!
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Post by Kurt Fletcher on Nov 20, 2010 4:26:41 GMT
Lucius climbed the ladder and rolled to his left and down the steps. The other two did the same. They now cautiously walked down the steps ready for any resistance. “Looks like no one is down here; man this is a lot of storage space.” said Daniel. “What now?” interjected Lucius. “We find something to stow away in.” answered Kurt. “What if we are taken in crates to different parts of the depot and are separated form each other?” Lucius pointed out. “Well,” said Daniel, “We’ll just have to get in crates that are close together and with similar markings.” “That still doesn’t guarantee that we will be shipped tot eh same place.” “Whatever, it’s worth a try, and right now we’re out of options; get in a crate. Hurry!” The three quickly got in some crates close together and waited.
“I would get the crate with the cabbages…” Kurt complained. “It’s not as bad as sardine cans; I don’t think they sealed these things right.” Lucius grimaced. “Cut the chatter,” Daniel reprimanded, “No more talking over the com link unless necessary. We’re about ten minutes from unloading.” Those were the longest ten minutes of Kurt’s life, all he could see was darkness, and all he could hear was the ship moving. In addition, all he could smell was cabbages. Nasty smelling vegetables they were, but they didn’t taste half bad, Kurt thought as he took another bite. His thoughts were soon interrupted though as the boat came to a complete stop. Soon, he could feel his crate being picked up and being walked down a gangplank. Probably toward a dock. Kurt’s crate was then put on a supply truck. Kurt was thrown around like a sack of potatoes in his crate (more like sack of cabbages). He though now would be a safe time to talk over the com link.
He said, “Daniel, this is Kurt. Where are you?” Daniel responded quickly, “I’m on a truck that’s really bumpy.” “What about Lucius?” “I’m on a truck as well.” “Kurt said, “My truck just stopped, I think I’m at a check point.” Daniel replied, “I think I am on the same truck, Lucius?” “Negative,” Lucius said, “My truck is still moving.” “Okay,” said Kurt, “A few more stops and we should be there.” After stopping a few more times, Kurt and Daniel were unloaded and put down somewhere. Kurt commanded, “Daniel, let’s break out of our crates on the three: 1, 2, 3!” Daniel and Kurt opened their crates and crawled out. Kurt looked around and observed his surroundings. He was in a massive ware house with a spray-painted number two on it.
Daniel popped upright as he said, “Let’s contact Lucius…Lucius, you there?” “I’m here” Kurt said, “Good; relay your current location, over.” “I’m in a warehouse with a big number one on it.” “Hmmm, okay. We are in warehouse number two. Now, Lucius listen very carefully: Put your silencer on your gun and don’t be seen. Stealth is imperative. If you must kill someone, hide the body. Now place charges in the warehouse and then wait for further instructions. How Copy?” “Copy, roger that.” Lucius ducked behind his crate as two guards came by. He placed an explosive charge by a group of crates. Then sprinted to where a forklift was and edged some explosives in the wheel. He darted about from place to place doing this until he had laced the strategic points in the warehouse. “Kurt, come in.” said Lucius. “This is Kurt, objective complete?” “Roger that.” “Great! Now, proceed outside of the warehouse, got to the central towers and place charges throughout it so, after it is destroyed, supply ships and dreadnoughts will be unable to receive guidance or clearance to land. Daniel and I are going to the docks; can you do that?” “I’ll try.” Kurt and Daniel sprinted out of the warehouse and to the shadows of a nearby building. Kurt, looking to Daniel, said, “Hey Daniel, this looks like an armory, put some explosives here.” Daniel place charges at strategic structure points on the building. Just then, the door to the building opened unexpectedly and two guards exited the armory. Before the two guards could do anything, Kurt had thrown his knife into the neck of one and Daniel had kicked the other, finishing him the guard off with his knife. After hiding the bodies inside the armory behind some weapon cases, Daniel said, “We have got to be more careful; that was too close, now let’s hurry.”
Daniel and Kurt slowly made their way to the docks. It was hard though. APM troops were everywhere and it was al they could do to avoid them. Because it was nighttime now, guard towers and helicopters shoed bright spotlights all over; and with all the trucks coming and going, it was hard to stay out of their way, but they mad it finally. Meanwhile, Lucius ran to the control tower. He went to the doors and looked both ways to see if anyone was around. He looked to his left and then to his right, but he inadvertently forgot to look behind himself! He was about to place a charge when he heard someone shout out, “Hey you, what are you doing?!”
Lucius froze. He was not suited to defending himself in close quarters. As a sniper’s natural reaction to danger close, Lucius chose to evade and get to higher ground. In an instant, he had darted into the control tower, slamming and locking the door behind him just as it was riddled with bullets. He ran up the steps to the top of the tower and flung open the door to the main control room exposing five APM soldiers. He managed to eliminate three of the guards, but two were able to roll out of the way and behind some desks, sounding the alarm simultaneously. Lucius ducked back out of the room and into a nearby closet. “This is not good,” he thought.
Kurt and Daniel were putting the finishing touches on the docks when they heard the alarm. Daniel contacted Lucius, “Lucius, what happened?” “I was seen, took shelter in the control tower,” Lucius was gasping in air as gunshots echoes over his microphone. “Alright, stay there. We’ll complete the mission; do whatever you can to help.” Daniel and Kurt sprinted toward the last objective, the motor pool with the helicopters and a few spare trucks. “We’ve got to speed things up; the charges go off in ten minutes! Hey, Kurt, there is a truck coming by, get it.” Kurt nodded and fired at the driver, all it took was a few shots and the driver fell dead. Daniel and Kurt ran over to the truck and Kurt got in the driver’s seat with Daniel sitting in the passenger’s side. Kurt exclaimed, “Let’s go!” Kurt slammed the gas pedal to the floor and made his presence known by running over a couple of troop barricades and other vehicles on the way to the motor pool. Daniel stuck his gun out the window and fired as they made their way through the supply depot.
“Kurt,” said Daniel. “What?” inquired Kurt. “We have company!” “Huh?” “Helicopters!” “Oh, no…” “We’re almost there just swerve while you drive, try to shake them!” Raising an eyebrow at Daniel, Kurt said, “Wow, now that it a great way to avoid heat seeking missiles, isn’t it?” “You’re funny, Kurt. Now get out, quick, we’re here.” Kurt jumped out and opened fire at the troops guarding the motor pool. Daniel fired his grenade launcher killing most of the guards. Kurt picked off the rest of them and moved on into the motor pool quickly placing and arming charges while Daniel covered him from behind the truck. Kurt said, “Okay Daniel, let’s go steal a helicopter. We’ve got about five minutes.” “Right,” said Daniel, “If only it were that easy.”
Daniel and Kurt sprinted over to the helipad fired at anything that moved. Daniel made it to the helicopter first and Kurt jumped in second. They put on the headsets and flew toward the control tower after taking off. Lucius could hear troops coming up the steps. By now he had eliminated the final two guards in the control room and had made a small barricade of desks at the top of the stairway. Though his barricade would only hold for a little while, he knew that the stairwell would act as an artificial chokepoint for the enemy. He was interrupted by the sounds of a dreadnought pilot coming over the control tower radio; this gave him an idea. He raced over to the headset I the tower and answered, “Control, over.” The APM dreadnought pilot replied, “This is dreadnought 10-57 what happened, we received a distress call; your communications have been out for almost half and hour…” Lucius reached over to a panel and saw labeled lights and turned them all off as he said, “Um… sorry, weapons malfunction.” “Well, do I have clearance to land” “Affirmative.” “I can’t see the landing zone; power to the landing light has just malfunctioned, over.” “Copy DN 10-57, Lights are out, but LZ is clear.” “Copy, proceeding to land.”
Lucius watched as the dreadnought hover in and landed on top of another dreadnought making a huge explosion. Lucius’ celebration, however, was cut short as he realized that the APM soldiers had almost made it to where he was. Lucius raced to the ladder leading to the roof of the control tower and said, “Kurt, Daniel, do you read me? I am on top of the control tower. I’m out of options.” “Don’t worry, we’re coming. Hang tight.” Kurt said. “How?” said Lucius. Daniel answered, “We ‘borrowed’ an APM helicopter.” Lucius looked up and saw the helicopter coming straight toward him. He saw Kurt lean out and drop a ladder from the back bay of the chopper. Bullets flew everywhere, but the enemies that were now on the roof could not hit Lucius as he swayed in the wind while climbing the helicopter’s ladder.
Kurt looking at his watch said, “Five Seconds.” BOOM! The depot went up in flames and the ground vibrated. Kurt nodded in satisfaction as he surveyed the team’s work. It was a job well done. “That should get everyone’s attention,” thought Kurt. Lucius then sighed, “That was too close!” But Kurt replied, “You made several mistakes that almost cost us the mission. Your training is far from over. Hopefully you learned something tonight. Frank better have some training facilities back at the base, Lucius. We’re going to need them.” The three who were disguised in the APM helicopter, rode home in silence. It was mission complete, but a new mission begun.
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Post by Daniel Fletcher on Dec 15, 2010 21:37:05 GMT
The Unknown War 1-5-3
Wham! The sound of Lucius’ body hitting the mat on the floor reverberated thorough the thirty fifth level of the skyscraper. Lucius groaned involuntarily as he landed; he looked up to see Kurt standing above him in a defensive stance waiting for Lucius to get up. Lucius groaned again; it had been a long week. Ever since the three had arrived back from their complete mission, Kurt and Daniel had been training Lucius like crazy. They first had asked Frank if they could turn the thirty-fifth level of the skyscraper into a training area. He said that it would be a good idea and that they would be so high above everyone else that no one would hear any activities that would occur.
Lucius thought back to when he was a sniper in the AU army. He never though he would get to any special position, but now he was part of a special hand-picked team training with two legends. He was quickly brought back to reality when he heard Daniel’s voice. “Lucius! Get up! You need to move your feet when you are engaged in hand to hand combat! Otherwise the first blow to your upper body will knock you down! Now, try it again!” Daniel instructed.
Lucius nodded and slowly got back up on his feet. While Kurt and Lucius were circling, Frank walked into the room. “Hey, Frank!” said Kurt. “What’s up guys? Kurt and Daniel, how’s the training going?” Lucius looked to where frank walked into the room, and immediately Kurt threw a left hook into Lucius’ right temple, knocking him to the ground senseless. “Great, you just taught our student one of his most important lessons: never look away from an enemy you are fighting.” Daniel exclaimed. Frank shook his head chuckling. Kurt grabbed a bucket of water and dumped it over Lucius’ head, bringing him back to consciousness.
Kurt said, “Alright, Lucius let’s start back at the beginning.” “Could I talk to you for a moment, Daniel?” Frank said off to the side. “Sure thing,” said Daniel, “Kurt, keep working with Lucius, I will be back in a bit.” “Okay....Alright, Lucius now we are going to...” Kurt’s voice faded away as Frank and Daniel walked out of the room and up the stair to the communications floor of the skyscraper.
“Alright, what’s up Frank?” asked Daniel. “Well,” said Frank, “As you know, the entire planet of Apothos is in an uproar of what you accomplished during your mission. APM forces have tried to keep it on the down low, but reporters and other people are having a field day with this. No one knows who, what, or why this has happened.” “So,” replied Daniel, “The bottom line is that our mission accomplished what we intended it to do: cause confusion, disrupt supplies to the APM troops, and bring doubt that APM forces are not as invincible as they seem to be. But, unless we provide an answer to the people on this planet as to why this has happened, the APM will easily be able to explain it all way, and a great deal of the effect that we intended to occur would be lost.”
“Right...Exactly!” exclaimed Frank, “you need to somehow get a message to the entire planet, or at least the slums (it’s the most unstable region don’t ya’ know). Your message would be: why this has happened and you need to get it out fast. “Any ideas for a spot for us to hit?” asked Daniel. Frank continued, “I was hoping you would ask; there is a huge propaganda broadcasting tower in the center of town. It broadcasts messages across the Slums.
Daniel inquired further, “What’s security like?” Frank answered once again, “Well, since your little escapade, security had been a nightmare: twenty-four hour surveillance, guards, watch dogs, spotlight, but, before you give up, there is one chance for you.” Daniel raised his eyebrow as Frank continued, “They are having a party for the head of the department of propaganda. A Colonel Lazlof, security would be tight, but not for three high ranking officials attending the party who could easily slip in and out before anyone knew, and their message had been sent across the planet.”
“I like this idea; we’ll go with it!” Daniel said. He asked, “When is the party?” “A week from yesterday.” replied Frank. “Hmmm...” Daniel thought for a moment and then said, “That doesn’t give us much time to complete Lucius’ training but we’ll have to make it work. “It’s settled,” said Frank, “I’ll begin making the preparations.”
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Post by Kurt Fletcher on Jan 21, 2011 1:59:22 GMT
The Unknown War 1-5-4
Kurt woke up suddenly as he felt someone shaking him. He looked over to see Daniel who said, “It’s time to start getting ready” Kurt replied, “Right...Lucius! Wake up!” They both looked over and saw Lucius groan and turn over on one side. Daniel sighed and winked at Kurt. Kurt smiled and they both made their way to the cot where Lucius was sleeping. Daniel started, “One...Two...Three!” They flipped over the cot upon which Lucius was sleeping much to his surprise. “Oww! What ...Who is...oh, never mind,” Lucius groaned as he pulled himself off of the floor. Frank sauntered in just in time to see the mayhem, “So, this is how late sleepers are dealt with!” Lucius laughed sarcastically, “Very funny...” Frank turning to Daniel said, “I got the stuff you asked for, Daniel.” “Thanks, “Daniel replied, “Do you have the transportation that we need for tonight?” “Sure thing,” Frank answered, “The limo is all lined up for tonight. Well, I’ll let you all get ready. We’re leaving here in two hours.” After thanking Frank, the three started getting ready.
After Frank had left the room, Daniel turned to see Lucius looking through the stuff that Frank had brought in. “What is this stuff?” Lucius asked. Daniel quickly replied, “That ‘stuff’ is what we are going to be wearing at Colonel Lazlof’s party tonight.” Daniel began handing Kurt and Lucius items from the pile of suits. Lucius looking at an item asked, “What are these?” “Those are studs.” Kurt answered. “And what are studs,” Lucius continued. “They’re what you use to keep your formal shirt together instead of buttons.” “What’s wrong with the shirt I got on?” Lucius asked once more. “You can’t wear a t-shirt and jeans with a suit and tie, much less to a formal party!” Daniel reprimanded. “Whatever,” Lucius replied, “...Hey these studs don’t fit...” “Those are studs, those are cuff links!” Kurt said trying to hold back a laugh. “Okay,” Lucius said feeling a little lost, “...You know guys, I don’t how I am supposed to wear my body armor and put on my rifle and ammo wearing this stuff...” “Body armor and large-caliber firearms also happen to be one of those things best not worn to a formal party!” Daniel informed as Kurt started to laugh silently to himself. “This is ridiculous,” Lucius exclaimed, “I am going to the other room to change.”
Lucius left the room as Kurt said to Daniel, “Wow, he really HAS been a soldier his whole life.” The two laughed out loud for a good minute before Kurt continued, “You know, Daniel, it has been a long time since we have had to a suit and tie.” Daniel said, “Yea, brings back memories from our days back in the States.” “What States?” Lucius interjected. Kurt silently walked over to Lucius and said, “Don’t worry about it; try tying your tie around your collar, not your head.” After fixing Lucius’ tie, Kurt turned to finish tying his own tie. Lucius said, “Does this thing have to be so tight, I can barely breathe!” Daniel turned to see Lucius getting ready to untie his tie, but quickly said, “You’ll be fine; just deal with it. It looks like we are all ready. Let’s go upstairs and I will give the briefing.”
Lucius, Kurt, and Daniel walked up the steps to the next floor and entered the room where Frank was standing. Frank, seeing them, said, “Here’s and extra pair of keys to the limo, hopefully you won’t be needing them.” Lucius turned to Frank inquisitively and asked, “Frank, why are you all dressed up too?” “Because every group of high ranking officers needs a chauffer to drive their limo around,” Frank replied. Daniel started the briefing, “Any way, let’s get down to business. This is a map of the building that the party is going to be held in. The party will be in these four rooms on the second story of the building. We need to get to the top story in order to broadcast the message we want to send across the planet or hopefully at least the Slums. We will need to blend into the crowd and not make our presence too well known. One by one, we will slip up stairs, make the broadcast, slip back downstairs, get to the limo and leave before anyone has realized what has happened, any questions?”
Lucius interjected inquisitively, “Yes, will we be carrying any weapons at all.” “Yes, but only one suppressed side arm which we will not use unless absolutely necessary. We will be disguised as two generals and a captain,” replied Daniel. “I’m guessing that I don’t get to a general, right?” Lucius said in a defeated voice. “No one said who was going to be the captain,” said Daniel. “You mean....?” Lucius asked hopefully. “No, you are the captain.” Kurt said looking at the briefing details. “Figures...” Lucius muttered.” “What was that Lucius?” asked Daniel. “Nothing, nothing; I’m just overjoyed at my position that’s all.” Lucius replied in a sarcastic tone. Kurt picking up where Daniel left off said, “Alright, Frank it looks like we are ready.” “One more thing,” said Daniel as everyone got us, “I need to give you your names. I am General Reinhardt; Kurt, you are General Kristensen, and Lucius you are Captain Richards, sound good?” With an affirmative answer from the group, Daniel said, “Let’s do this.”
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Post by Daniel Fletcher on Jan 23, 2011 16:08:38 GMT
the Unknown War 1-5-5
An hour later...
“Well, here we are gentleman, I wish you well on your mission. Oh, Lucius, your mustache is drooping.” Frank said. “Thanks, Frank” Lucius said as he fixed the fake mustache on his face. “Alright, let’s do this shall we?” said Daniel. Frank go out of the limo an opened the door for the three men. Lucius walked a little bit behind Daniel and Kurt as they sauntered up the steps to the building where two guards stood. “Welcome gentleman, do you have your passes?” asked a guard. “Of course,” replied Daniel. After taking a quick look at the fake I.D.s the guard said, “Everything seems to be in order, enjoy your time here tonight.” After a quick “thank you” the three headed into the building. The group was escorted by two butlers to an elevator and then into the main room where the festivities were being held. Daniel waited until the butlers had left and then spoke, “Alright, split up. When the party has been going for about thirty minutes meet back here. Don’t do or say anything stupid. Just relax and act normal.” “I don’t know what to do or say, I have never been to a party, let alone a formal one.” Lucius said. “We know,” replied Kurt, “Just stick near me and do what I do.”
The three began mingling into the crowd. Lucius was amazed at the ease and calmness that his two companions possessed. “Would you like a drink, sir?” asked a butler. Lucius was caught by surprise by the sudden question that eh didn’t know what to say. Fortunately, Kurt was there to answer for him. “Sure, my friend and I would love a drink, thanks.” Said Kurt. The butler walked away after handing the two drinks, and then Kurt whispered to Lucius, “Relax Lucius! You look like a deer caught in headlights.” “That’s about how I feel right now.” Lucius replied. “Just follow my lead; let’s talk to that general.” Kurt said. “Wait, what? You mean just go over there and talk to him?” Lucius seemed stunned. “Why not,” returned Kurt, “Daniel is talking to that lady over there, we can’t let him out do us.” “Alright, whatever you say.” Lucius replied.
Kurt and Lucius walked over to the man sitting in the corner of the room. “Good evening sir,” Kurt said. “Good evening to you as well,” the general returned, “How have you been?” “Well, despite the strange occurrences that have been happening of late.” The general replied, “Quite true, did you hear what happened a couple nights ago?” “No what happened, my dear fellow?” asked Kurt. “Well, one of the facilities was attacked by a massive force that. The whole facility was destroyed.” “Whoever did that must have been cunning, brave, highly skilled, and...owe!” Lucius stopped his secretive self-compliment when a quick elbow was delivered to him from Kurt. “I agree with you,” the general said, “They must have been good to get past our expert security measures.” “There must have hundreds of men,” said Lucius, “there is no way a small force could have done so much damage.” Kurt sighed and shook his head. “Well, it’s been nice talking to you, come on Captain Richards.” “Have a good evening,” the general replied.
“What are you trying to do?” Kurt reprimanded Lucius. “It never hurts to compliment yourself every once in a while” As Kurt and Lucius conversed, Daniel made his way over to where the two were talking. “We have a problem,” Daniel said. “What is it?” Kurt asked. “You see that general over there. Well, he knows who we are.” “I’ve never seen him before,” said Lucius. “Not you, us,” said Kurt, “He knows us from old earth days. He is a high ranking official in the earth’s leadership.” Daniel cut in, “We are going to have speed things up. We have to go as a group now. If we stay here, we risk discovery. Kurt and Lucius nodded in agreement. The three men made their way to the exit which lead to the broadcasting room but were stopped as they saw two guards who were standing in front of it. Daniel said, “Kurt, you go first. Tell the guard you are going to the bathroom. I’ll go next and say that I need a breath of fresh air. Lucius wait here for a couple of minutes and then follow us and tell the guard you also need to go to the bathroom.” The three understood each other well. Kurt walked up to the guard and the guard let him through without even giving him a second glance. A couple seconds later, Daniel walked up and answered the guard’s question. Then he let Daniel through. Lucius waited nervously for a couple of minutes and then made his way to the guard in front of the door.
“What’s up mate, leaving the party so soon?” the guard asked. “Sorry, no,” Lucius chuckled absurdly, “I just need to use the restroom, that’s all.” “Too much to drink, eh?” the guard laughed. “Guess you could say that...” Lucius replied. Thankfully, the guard let him pass. Lucius quickly made his way down the hall to the elevator where Daniel and Kurt were standing. “Blast?” Daniel said angrily. “What is it?” asked Lucius. “The elevator needs a pass key.” Daniel answered in a frustrated tone. “What are we going to do?” Kurt asked. “Just then a Guard turned the corner at the end of the hallway, “What are you guys doing here, the party is out there.” Kurt replied, “Sorry, we were looking for the bathrooms.” “Down the hall on the left,” answered the guard. “Thank you,” said Kurt. “Oof! Ow! Watch where you’re going!” the guard recoiled. “Sorry, my apologies, I didn’t mean to run into you like that.” Daniel replied. “Just don’t let it happen again,” the guard said as he round a bend at the end of the hallway and disappeared out of sight. The guard walked away into the next room as Daniel pulled something out of his pocked. “Hey! Where did you get that?” Lucius asked pointing at the passkey in Daniel’s hand. “From our guard friend over there,” Daniel replied, “It just so happens that he was wearing a passkey on his belt.” Daniel returned to the elevator door, swiped the passkey, and said, “Aha! We’re in!”
The three quickly made their way onto the elevator and pushed the button for the top floor. Daniel cautioned the rest of the group, “Remember! We only have five minutes before the guard checks the security cameras for this level. We have to be done and out of here by then.” The three slowly made their way out of the elevator until they could see the camera. After the red light on the camera went off, the three quickly ran to the room marked “broadcasting.” Kurt quickly set the system up and Lucius began broadcasting Daniel’s message. Once they were finished Daniel looked down at his watch and said, “We only have forty-five seconds, let’s move!” The men ran down the hall into the elevator. “I think we made it,” Lucius said with relief. “We’re not free yet,” Kurt said. Daniel, Lucius, and Kurt made their way to the out side of the building to the carpool where Frank was waiting. “Ah! Good evening gentlemen, I trust that your night was successful?” Frank asked. “Ah yes, very successful indeed” Daniel answered. “Then let us be going shall we?” Frank said. “Yes,” Kurt answered relieved, “Let’s go.”
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Post by Lucius Alar on Jan 27, 2011 22:32:19 GMT
The Unknown war 1-5-6
The group arrived back at the base in the most relaxed state that they had been in since they had arrived at Apothos. “I think that was a success!” Frank said. “Whoa now,” interjected Daniel, “Let’s wait to see the reaction.” “Something tells me that shouldn’t take too long.” Kurt said while loosening his tie. “Hmm, that’s curious.” Frank said inquisitively as he went to open the door to his communications room. “What is?” Lucius asked. “The door to communications is unlocked...” Frank continued, “I was almost certain that I locked up everything before I left.” Everyone drew their weapons quickly and aimed at the door. Frank stood to the side of the doorway and gave the cracked door a push so that it now swung completely open. Nothing.
Lucius, Daniel, and Kurt entered the room and checked it; they saw nothing, but Lucius stopped. Picking up a folded piece of paper on one of the computer monitors in the room, Lucius said, “Well, well, Frank. It seems that someone has left a note for you.” Frank entered the room and grabbed the piece of paper and read aloud, “It says: Check the news.” “Wow, that’s ominous.” Kurt replied. Daniel was already reaching for the remote when Lucius interjected, “Wait...What if it’s a trap, and that TV’s rigged to blow.” “Then we all die,” Daniel said reassuringly as he pressed the power button on the remote. Needless to say, the TV did not explode, but what were exploding were the news channels.
As the group watched the news for some kind of relevant story to appear, Frank said, “Guys, I think I know who wrote this note; it was Brandon. Only he could have handwriting this bad...” “Shhh!” said Lucius pointing to the TV, “This is us.” A story flashed onto the news channel with a reporter standing outside of the formal party that the three had just attended. The reporter said to a general, “Shocking, absolutely shocking. So, you’re telling me that this renegade broadcast was simply an elaborate prank?” The general replied, “Yes, yes. Just some pranksters thought they would have some fun; I just don’t think they know the seriousness of the crime they committed. At the very least they could be jailed for life.” “But how did the broadcast get out? This computer broadcasting station here is boasted to be completely, electronically secure. I believe when this complex was built the saying was ‘Nothing lacks, so no hacks’.” “True, true. The situation is under intense investigation right now. We believe that there were three criminals who used tonight’s promotion celebration as a guise to physically enter the building. From there we suspect they infiltrated the broadcasting room.” The reporter continued, “But I also thought that you said this was the most elaborately secure broadcasting complex.” “Short of extensive military measures, yes.” “So how did these ‘pranksters’ get in?” “They must have been well-versed in the art of espionage. Now, if you please, no further questions.” The general said while simultaneously suppressing the microphone and walking away.
The reporter finished her story by saying, “Well, viewers, there you have it. A bunch of pranksters somehow infiltrated a highly secure government facility broadcasting incriminating messages to the people of Apothos about the APM. Could this be a government cover-up for something more sinister? Possibly. Are there questions left unanswered? Definitely. This is Rita Crown for Channel 7 News, goodbye.” “Whoohoo!” Frank said, “You guys did it!” “What do you mean, Frank?” Daniel asked. “I don’t think you guys understand what just happened in that interview. That general did such a poor job covering that up! People are definitely going to know that something’s going on. The way he pushed down that microphone and walked away. Man! He was at a loss for words. In addition, as you can see from the reporter, the news is not on APM’s side on this story, and if we’re lucky, they’ll rebroadcast your message as part of another story or something. Success!” Frank said excitedly.
“But wait,” Lucius said observantly, “Brandon didn’t know about our mission, and those news crews never physically arrived on the scene until just minutes ago, how did he know?” Kurt interjected pointing at the TV, “Guys, I think you should have a look at this.” On the screen flashed a major story as a newscaster said, “Welcome back viewers, I’m Bill Jennings bringing you tonight’s big story: it’s downtown mayhem like never seen before. A club shootout led to a nasty firefight which spread to an adjacent office building. Witnesses say that pure panic ensued as armed gunmen fire upon both civilians and federal agents. Our on-sight correspondent James Finley brings us more, James?” The TV switched to a scene in the downtown streets of Apothos with ambulance and police car lights everywhere. “Thanks, Bill,” the on-sight reporter said, “We’re here outside of Club Anmut, a prestigious and well-organized nightclub here in downtown. Tonight’s festivities were all going according to planned, but things changed quite quickly.”
A witness from the nightclub appeared on the screen and said, “I was just dancin’ and having fun, ya’ know; nothin’ out of the norm, but sometime when I had been there for about two hours, these two guys in suits just pushed through the dancing crowd. It was like they were on a mission to just push people down and stuff. I saw them get into the elevator and about five minutes later...that’s when we heard the loud BOOM. I says, ‘that ain’t music son’ and people be screamin’ and junk so I was like scared I be dead yo’. By the time I be out of the club, that’s when I sees the po-po copter hit the side of this here office buildin’. I was all like ‘I be getting outta here! Every man fo’ his self!’ So I just peaced out.”
“....Fascinating,” the on-sight reporter stated, “From what I’ve gathered, Bill, two criminals infiltrated the club owner’s office, threatened him, and after killing the man with a small explosive, made off with his computer. Federal agents chased the men but were both killed in the process. The two criminals split up: one with the laptop, the other with nothing. The man with the laptop attempted to evade police by running from building to building using maintenance walkways and platforms. However, his acrobatics did not save him as he was apprehended by police snipers and fell to his death along with the federal agent into the river just outside of Club Riviera.”
“The other criminal,” the reporter continued, “Split up with his partner after the two escaped Club Anmut owner Victor Kremsky's office. From there, the criminal was chased by the other federal agent into an adjacent office building here.” The reporter pointed, “Once inside, the man used high explosives to destroy a police helicopter killing three, and then he got into a shootout with the federal agent in one of the employees’ office space floors. Supposedly, the agent trapped the criminal along with himself in a maintenance elevator which was sent plummeting toward the ground floor. Both the criminal and the agent were presumed to have died in the explosion. One eyewitness, who is not available for interview at this time, says that he actually spoke to the criminal. While no body has been found for this criminal, the other laptop-runner’s body is also being searched for, but he is confirmed to have definitely perished.” The screen flashed to a policeman who said, “No one could have survived being shot through the shoulder, and then a 15-20 story drop into turbulent waters? No way, he’s definitely dead.” The screen flipped back to the reporter who finished, “James Finley Channel 7 News.”
Frank looked puzzled as he said, “Hmmm, this is weird.” “Of course it is!” Lucius interjected. Frank thought for a moment then said, “Brandon didn’t know about our mission, this last story was his work; it’s what he wanted us to see! But who was with him?” “Good question.” Daniel said. “I mean, Brandon usually does stuff like this alone. Man, this is really weird. I know Brandon. He would not create this much havoc for just any reason. And Victor! Brandon killing him is out of the question, they’re good friends.” “Who’s Victor,” asked Lucius. “He’s the owner of that club, but he also happens to know a lot of stuff about sketchy characters since he’s in the arms trading business. But still, this news story has to be incredibly warped. Hmmm.”
Frank thought again and said, “If Brandon really was with someone else, which it seems he was, why would he go see Victor on such short notice? And why would his visit be so violent? Brandon needed something on that laptop, and being the way he is, I bet he gave something of REAL importance to his companion when they split up. Brandon was probably the one with the laptop; he’s selfless like that. In addition, I don’t think Brandon’s dead; otherwise he wouldn’t have been able to leave this note here. I also suspect that there’s something different about those agents. Think! Brandon is one of the most wanted smugglers in the history of...well a lot. But that doesn’t mean that someone would send two of the most crazed, gun-slinging federal agents I’ve ever heard of to apprehend him in such a public place. But my real question is about this other character. If I don’t know who he is, how did he earn Brandon’s trust so quickly? More importantly, how did he take down that helicopter? Whoever this other guy is, Brandon knew that he was capable of keeping the item of real importance safe. But did HE die? I don’t think so. The police in that area would have looked for every scrap of evidence of that man’s body in the elevator. You heard the reporter say that they knew the agents were dead but were still missing the bodies of the criminals who were presumed to have died in the elevator and that river. The other man didn’t die in that elevator, they both escaped and Brandon got what he was after...whatever that was. I just hope that he isn’t going on some suicide mission to find his father; that always gets him into trouble.”
“Wow,” said Lucius, “Your powers of reasoning far exceed mine...” “I watch CSI,” Frank said. “So, Brandon was here on Apothos the same night as we performed our mission....how perfectly timed.” Kurt said. Daniel replied, “Well, after all that’s gone on tonight, I think the people of Apothos will at the very least be a little bit puzzled. Think, two big news stories in one night, both showing the failure of their ‘invincible and all-powerful’ government; that would get my gears turning. But if you ask me personally, between the two stories, I think we’ve been outdone boys.” The group agreed to get some much needed rest. The day’s events were quite tiring anyway.
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Post by Daniel Fletcher on Jul 1, 2011 15:00:40 GMT
The Unknown War 1-5-7
Lucius rolled to his feet after being thrown to the ground by his assailant. He quickly moved to the left to avoid the blow to his head that he knew would be coming. He smirked as the blow completely missed him. Suddenly he was knocked to the ground by someone behind him. He was pinned by his assailant and this new attacker before he had time to react. Lucius looked around to see that Frank had jumped on his back while he was training with Kurt.
Lucius: Aww, come on guys, two versus one. That’s not fair!
Kurt: You need to learn to keep looking around you when are fighting someone. Don’t just focus on the small fight. Focus on the big picture, the whole battlefield. That’s what separates a good soldier from a great soldier, observation on the battlefield.
Lucius: I never will be able to beat you, every time I get better in one area you beat me in another.
Daniel walked into the room as Lucius spoke.
Daniel: Don’t worry about it Lucius, you have greatly improved in your training and you will have your first stage of training complete very soon. Right now, we have something more important to worry about. Kurt: What’s up? Daniel: It’s what Frank was about to tell you before he got carried away with Lucius’s training. Frank: Oh yeah! He he, sorry about that Lucius. Lucius: Don’t worry about it, I get you back later. Frank: We’ll see about that Kurt: Ok, worry about that later, what do you have to tell us? Frank: I received a transmission from Brandon … he didn't say much only that we need to be ready for something big, not sure what that means. Kurt: Hmmm, looks like your final examination for your first phase of training is coming up Lucius. Lucius: Great … just what I always wanted, an exam that decides my entire future. What do we do now? Daniel: Just wait until Brandon gets here, we will decide what to do then. Daniel and Kurt walked out of the room as Lucius and Frank kept talking. Lucius: How do they stay so calm all of the time? Frank: Well, that’s what separates a good soldier from a great soldier-
Frank was interrupted by three loud and ominous knocks at the door to the HQ.
*Admin edit*: This post ends the Unknown War storyline and merges into the Tide of War storyline, the next post will be in the TIDE OF WAR STORYLINE ;D
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