FanFic: Ragol's Curse (Final)

[Freeze]

This is the sequel to Ragol’s Gift. Enjoy!

CHAPTER ONE

Christmas on Coral is always my most favourite time of the year. Dad always puts his work on hold and spends more time with the family. Mom is much happier and the apartment is full of the smell of fresh baked cookies. I can never sleep and Christmas day never comes fast enough. This year is even more special because it’s my baby brother’s first one. The presents are piled high under our small tree; of course, to me it’s huge. The big day finally comes and I am up at four in the morning tossing and turning. No way can I sleep any more so I carefully open my door just enough to squeeze through then I creep down the short hallway that feels like a mile. There just ahead is the shadowy shrine that is every kids dream. The lights suddenly flash on. I turn to see my father staring down at me.

“It’s not time yet son.” He says, “Back to bed.”

“Yes dad.” I reply and reluctantly go back to bed.

So I’m stuck in bed lying here for four more agonizing hours. The moment finally comes. Dad opens the door and shows me to the tree. The presents are handed out and Christmas begins. Baby Paul gets a few toys that he seems to enjoy. I get the Buster Jetstream Action Space Ship with lights and sound effects including five of Busters catch phrases. It’s the coolest toy ever. Once we clean up it’s time for diner. The turkey is perfect as usual. Mom works so hard to make things right. I wonder if she knows how much we love her. This is without a doubt the best Christmas ever.

It’s another beautiful summer morning, or it would be if it weren’t for the mean androids out side. Everyone in our building is afraid. Dad says if we stay quiet, the androids might not come. Baby Paul doesn’t listen too well. Mom’s with him now so Dad will be making breakfast. I quickly pull on my pants and shirt and run to the kitchen. It’s not very big. Just big enough for the stove, the small fridge, and our round little table. I burst through the door and am greeted by the smell of frying bacon. There’s a big stack of pancakes waiting for me. I love pancakes. I hop up on my chair and wait for Dad to pour the hot syrup on them.

“There you go son.” He smiles, “Eat up, we’ve got a busy day today.”

“Where are we going today Dad?” I ask with a mouth full of pancakes.

Dad doesn’t answer at first. He just stares at the bacon sizzling in the pan. Slowly he turns and looks at me. He looks so very sad.

“You know it’s not safe here.” He says.

“The androids?” I ask.

“That’s right.” He nods, “Your mother and I have agreed that we need to get you and your brother away from here.”

I stare at him, not quite understanding what he’s talking about.

“When you’re finished eating I want you to pack your bag.” He says, “Take some cloths and your two favourite toys. Leave everything else.”

“But Dad!” I start to protest.

“No Son!” He snaps, “Just do it. Now eat up.”

I nod once then finish my pancakes before heading back to my room. Moms got Paul’s things in her bag. I throw a few things in my pack and stuff my bear in last. A loud bang comes from down stairs. People start screaming in the hall. Dad grabs me by the arm.

“Come on, they’re here.” He says.

Dad yanks the door open. There’s smoke in the hallway. We rush out into the hall. Two androids are waiting for us. Baby Paul begins to cry.

“Quiet.” The green android growls.

He pulls out a sword and swings it at mom. She gasps and jumps back. Seems like he misses, but wait. The baby has stopped crying. Mom screams as Paul falls apart and lands on the floor. Dad pulls me away. The android swings again and mom stops screaming.

“Run!” Dad yells.

He pushes me down the hall. I run as fast as I can. Then I hear Dad cry. I stop and turn. The red android is standing over Dad. He’s holding a light sword. He marches toward me. I’m too scared to move.

“Good bye son.” He glares.

He swings his sword. I jump back. Pain runs down my face. My right eye won’t open. I fall and land on my back. The red android goes to stab me. The green one stops him.

“What are you doing?” The Red one asks.

“Just let him burn.” The Green says, “He’s not going anywhere. Besides I don’t feel like getting cooked in here.”

“Fine.” The Red android grumbles.

I watch them leave before turning. There’s a window at the end of the hall. If I can reach it I might be able to get out. I start coughing. Must get to the window. My eye is getting heavy. My strength finally gives out. My eye drops shut and darkness envelops me. Dead before I get to live.

















<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2008-02-15 15:21 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWO

The air was fresh and bitter cold. It stung any exposed flesh causing frost bite very quickly. The sun was beginning to set. Banks of clouds were moving in. A strong wind came with them. Another snow storm was heading this way. It had been a long climb to the top of the mountain but this was the only way across the range. Striker opened his eye leaving the painful memory in the past. His left eye was the only functioning one. His right eye was nothing more than a white ball still sitting in its socket. The damage had been too severe to repair and by the time he was old enough for an artificial one, he had grown used to looking at it in the mirror. It was a reminder of his ultimate quest. His family had to be avenged. He pulled the scarf higher over his face. He’d have to find shelter soon. These northern storms tended to be merciless and unrelenting. His trail would soon be covered and with each passing storm he lost ground on the androids responsible for his family’s death. It had been almost a year since he left Pioneer Two and he was becoming very lonely. The northern tundra was completely lifeless yet that is were the androids seemed to be headed. Striker didn’t understand it but he wasn’t about to give up either. He let out a sigh and began to hike down the other side. Going down was much easier and he found a nice little cave at the halfway point. Striker climbed inside just as the snow began to fall. He pulled his portal heater from his pack and a small pot that he used to melt snow. He activated the heater then filled the pot with packed snow and placed it on the heating rack. He looked down at the bottom of his pack and counted the remaining ration bars.

“Only twenty three left.” He sighed, “This is not good. If I have to return to the ship for food I’ll lose them for sure.”

He zipped up the pack and decided he’d wait until morning to eat. For now he’d just have to fill up on melted snow. Warm water was not very filling and he had run out of coffee packs and herbal tea. He downed the last of the water and placed the pot back into the pack. He found a reasonably comfortable bit of rock wall to lie against and pulled his Red Sword up next to him. Slowly he fell into a nightmare filled sleep.

He awoke from another dream about his friends being eaten by the Lazarus monster. One of many that haunted him each night. Morning was always a relief because he knew they were all safe aboard Pioneer Two. He missed Amanda most of all. She was a strong independent HUnewearl who rarely put up with his smart mouth and yet the more he had gotten to know her the more he liked her. He had even asked her to come and was very disappointed when she turned him down. He didn’t let her know that of course. His next choice had been Aphrodite. She was a little Fonewearl and Amanda’s best friend. She wasn’t as pretty as Amanda but she made up for it with her naive sweetness. She had hooked up with Strikers best friend HitmanJ and therefore taken herself off Strikers dating list. He sighed and quickly stuffed his belongings back into his pack. He scooped up his Red Sword and continued down the mountain completely unaware that he was being watched.

Tessa watched intently as the young HUmar continued his decent. She had been following him for several days. He was the first person she had seen in nine years. She was a young woman of twenty five years and had come aboard Pioneer One. She had gotten lost one day and ended up wandering the tundra surviving the best she could. She shook the thought from her mind and focused on the young man in the distance. She wanted to meet him but was afraid he might be with the corrupted ones. She put the old pair of binoculars away and began down the mountain. As she reached the bottom she lost sight of him. She hurried down hoping to catch up with him when he appeared ten feet below her. She gasped and hid behind a rock. She waited a moment then peered out. The hunter had reached the trail that lead through the valley. She’d have to hurry to catch him.

Striker looked up in the direction the noise had come from. He didn’t see anything but he was sure something was up there. He considered checking it out then shook his head and continued down. He reached the bottom and found a small trail filled with animal tracks.

“This is a good sign.” He smiled, “If I can catch some food. I won’t run out of ration bars. This is good.”

He tilted his head and looked closely at the trail and smiled.

“Gotcha.” He grinned.

Two sets of android tracks were just visible in the new fallen snow.

“Dinner and a robot!” Striker laughed, “Some one is looking out for me.”

He started down the path when he heard another sound. He spun and looked but nothing was there. Now he was sure some one was following him. He turned and hurried down the trail, hoping to surprise his pursuer.


Tessa reached the bottom only to find she had lost the hunter again.

“And you call yourself a tracker.” She muttered.

She looked down and saw his foot prints. A smile crept across her face. She was a tracker after all. She followed the tracks around a large bolder and came face to face with one of the arctic’s locals. It was one of the few carnivores that lived here. It was the size of a tiger with a similarly built body. The head looked more like a lion with a bright red mane. Its front paws were massive sporting giant non retracting claws. Its rear legs were much smaller but no less deadly. It roared once then stared hungrily at her with pitch black eyes. Tessa drew her only weapon, a combat knife her father had given her. This was not the first time she had to fight one of these creatures and it would not be the last. The creature charged with blinding speed. Tessa only had a second to react but it was a move she had done a million times. She jumped aside and kicked the animal in the ribs. It yelped as its hind legs slid in the snow. As soon as it stopped it leapt at her. She swung the knife slicing into the left front leg. The animal cried out as it swatted at her with the other claw but Tessa was already spinning out of the way. The claw just missed her back. She finished the spin and drove the knife into the animal’s side. It yelped and fell to the ground. Tessa started to retrieve her knife when the animal climbed to its feet. Tessa gasped and stepped back. The animal slowly crept forward. Red blood fell to the ground. She had obviously punched something but it wasn’t going to let her wait for it to die. She backed up until she hit the rock wall. The creature crept forward, drool dripping from its fangs. Her only choice was to call for help and hope that the hunter can hear her.





<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-20 02:28 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THREE

Striker stopped and cocked his head. He thought he heard a cry for help. It sounded like a girl and she sounded hot. That was impossible of course. No one was here except for him and the two androids. He started to turn but his heart kept telling him he should go help her. He sighed and headed back down the path. Striker rounded a corner and froze. It was a girl and she was beautiful. She was dressed in animal skins. Her hair was chestnut brown and perfectly straight handing out from under her hat. She had bright green eyes and pail soft looking skin. She looked to be in her mid twenties. She was pinned up against the rock face. A large cat creature was stalking her. There was a combat knife stuck in its side. Blood oozed from the wound. The animal jumped. Striker jumped too swinging his Red Sword. The creature’s body fell limp as the head landed nearby. Striker exhaled then looked up at the girl. She smiled at him.

“Thank you.” She said as she pulled out her combat knife, “That’s the first one that’s ever gotten the drop on me.”

“You fight these often?” Striker asked.

“All the time.” She replied, “It’s one of the few food sources here.”

Striker frowned as the girl picked up the carcass and slung it around her shoulders.

“What are you doing?” He asked.

“Can’t let good meat go to waste.” She shrugged.

Striker stood there for a moment with his mouth open. Tessa started down the path then looked back.

“Come on.” She nodded, “We have to cook this before it goes bad.”

Striker looked around then shrugged, “Where?”

“The watering hole.” Tessa replied.

“Wait a minute.” Striker said running to catch up, “Who are you and what are you doing here?”

“Names Tessa.” She replied, “And I live here?”

“Nobody lives here.” Striker frowned.

“I do.” She smiled.

“Why?” Striker asked.

“I’ll tell you when we get to the hole.” Tessa replied, “OK?”

“OK.” Striker nodded.

They walked for a few minutes before Striker tried to carry the carcass but Tessa refused. They walked for another half hour before reaching the hole. The watering hole turned out to be a large steaming lake. The valley opened onto the lake. The entire surrounding area was green and lush. Herds of animals had gathered here to feed and drink. Tessa started walking around the lake but Striker went straight for the water. He pulled his glove off and stuck his finger in. The water was cool but not nearly as cold as he expected.

“You could almost go swimming.” He said.

“You can.” Tessa smiled, “There’s a thermal vent that keeps the water at a constant twenty degrees!” (69 degrees F)

“Wow.” Striker whistled.

“My cave’s just up ahead.” Tessa nodded.

Striker watched her for a moment not realising he had a big grin on his face. He propped his sword up on his shoulder and followed her to a very large cave. The floor was surprisingly smooth. A bed made of leaves and grass sat beside the left wall. The fire pit was located at the rear where there was a hole in the ceiling. Tessa set the carcass down and proceeded to skin it. There was a large pile of wood nearby. Striker decided to help by starting the fire. Once it got going he sat down to tend it.

“So.” He said clearing his throat, “How long have you been here?”

He smiled expecting her to answer a couple of months or a year tops. Her answer took his breath away.

“Well.” She started looking down to avoid eye contact, “If my watch is still accurate, nine years.”

Strikers jaw dropped. He couldn’t speak.

“Good thing it charges with solar power huh?” She chuckled once.

“Nine years.” Striker gasped, “Wait a minute that means you’re from Pioneer One.”

“Yes, so?” Tessa frowned, “Oh I guess Pioneer Two would have arrived by now.”

“Almost three years ago.” Striker replied.

“I wish I could have met you all.” Tessa sighed, “I got lost up here and didn’t know how to get back. It was a miracle I found this place.”

“It’s a miracle you’re even alive.” Striker muttered.

“What’s that?” Tessa asked looking up.

“Nothing.” Striker shrugged.

“As soon as we landed I rushed off to explore the planet.” Tessa said, “Everyone was busy with the construction at the central dome so I guess they didn’t notice me slipping away. I was young and excited. It wasn’t until I crossed into the dense northern forest that I realized I didn’t know were Pioneer One was. Another month of wandering and I ended up in this northern wasteland. I guess I was too far away for the rescuers to find me. I almost went mad from the loneliness until I broke down and had a crying fit. After I collected myself and swore that I would survive until help came. And here you are.”

“I didn’t come here to bring you home.” Striker sighed.

“I know but your still help.” Tessa smiled.

She stuck some chunks of meat on the stick and placed it above the fire.

“Actually I’m looking for a couple of androids that fled this way.” Striker said.

“Yes I saw them.” Tessa nodded, “They looked kind of dangerous.”

“They murdered my family when I was little.” Striker growled clenching his fist.

“And you want revenge.” Tessa sighed.

“I want justice.” Striker glared.

“Sometimes the line between justice and revenge is difficult to see.” Tessa said softly.

“You’re a philosopher too?” Striker glared.

“No, but it’s something to think about.” She smiled.

“These androids have done awful things to many people.” Striker said staring into the fire, “I can’t let them hurt anyone else.”

“What did they do?” Tessa asked.

“It’s a long story.” Striker muttered.

“We have lots of time.” Tessa smiled and handed him a piece of cooked meat.

“Not that much.” Striker replied as he took a bite, “Hey not bad.”

Tessa nodded with a smile. Striker couldn’t stop staring at her. She was quickly becoming the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen. He turned away and mentally slapped himself.

“Stay focused Striker.” He thought.

“So how is everyone?” Tessa asked.

“How do I begin?” Striker sighed.

“Why, what’s happened?” Tessa asked as the smile drained away.

“And she’s smart too.” Striker thought.

He started with Pioneer Twos arrival and finished with his battle against Lazarus. Tessa never said a word. Her face was frozen in shock and horror the entire time.

“You OK?” Striker asked.

“My father.” Tessa said at last, “Gone.”

She started to cry. Striker moved beside her and wrapped his arms around her. She instantly hugged back and had a good long cry. Striker knew what she was going through. It’s when she finally stopped crying and looked into his eyes. He was falling in love with her.

“Thank you.” She sniffled.

“Anytime.” He replied softly.

They finished cooking the meat and stuffed it in their packs. Striker thanked her for the food and headed out. She watched him for a moment then ran after him.

“Wait!” She called, “I’m coming too!”

Striker’s heart skipped a beat. This was great. He wanted her with him, but this was going to be dangerous and he didn’t want her to get hurt.

“No, this is way too dangerous.” He sighed, “These androids won’t hesitate to kill you.”

“I spent nine years by my self.” Tessa stomped, “No more.”

Striker stepped back then nodded, “Okay.”

The two headed for the far end of the lake where the valley reformed. They picked up the androids tracks here. Striker missed them at first but Tessa spotted them easily.

“You might be worth having around after all.” Striker smiled.

Tessa just giggled. The valley finally opened up after a couple hundred kilometres. The wind whipped across the open tundra blasting them with icy chunks. Striker stepped back into the shelter of the valley and set his equipment down then collapsed. Tessa frowned at him.

“You’re not giving up are you?” She asked.

“No.” Striker said shaking his head, “I’m exhausted and night will be on us in half an hour. We should spend the night sheltered here, and then start out in the morning.”

Tessa looked up at the setting sun and nodded. She sat down beside Striker and watched him set up his stove. He melted down some water then pulled out some of the cooked meat. They ate in silence for a while, staring at the gas flame.

“How’d you lose your eye?” Tessa asked softly.

“The androids took it.” Striker replied, “They murdered my family then took it trying to kill me.”

“I’m sorry.” Tessa whispered then snuggled up to him.

Striker put his arm around her and closed his eyes. At first he just enjoyed the warmth they shared. Slowly he drifted into sleep and entered the nightmare world he visited every night.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-20 02:47 ]</font>

[Banish]

Great work on those Chapters.

[Freeze]

Thanks for the feed back. There’s a lot more to come!

CHAPTER FOUR

He awoke with Tessa shaking him and telling him to “wake up”. She looked very worried and kept looking back. He sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eye.

“What’s going on?” He muttered.

“We have to move.” Tessa quipped, “There’s a pack of those Razor cats coming.”

“Is that what you call them?” Striker smirked.

“I’m serious.” Tessa frowned, “One is no problem but a pack will tear us to shreds before we can even move.”

Striker looked out at the open plain. The wind was calm today. The snow had been beaten into a hard icy sheet. They could make good time running across it. So could the Razor cats.

“How fast are they?” He snapped.

“Huh?” Tessa asked caught off guard by his abrupt question.

“The Razor cats.” Striker replied, “How fast are they?”

“Like any big cat I guess.” Tessa shrugged.

“There is no way we could out run them.” Striker said as he stuffed his equipment into his pack.

“Which is why we should leave before they discover us.” Tessa said and took off into the open plain.

Striker grumbled and took off after her. They ran until Striker could go no farther. He fell to his knees gasping for air. Tessa turned and frowned at him.

“You’re not tired already?” Tessa jabbed.

“In case you… hadn’t noticed.” Striker gasped for air, “I’m… carrying all… the gear.”

“Looks like we lost them.” Tessa said looking back.

Striker remained quiet as he caught his breath. He stared at the ground and a smile crept across his face. There at his knees was the imprint of a ranger android. The hunter’s prints were right next to it.

“Somebody loves me.” Striker cried jumping to his feet.

“Well I don’t know about love but…” Tessa blushed.

“Huh?” Striker frowned at her.

She turned beet red and pretended to cough once.

“Nothing.” She said looking away.

Striker smiled then turned to follow the tracks. That reaction meant she at least liked him. Life was good right now. He felt warmer now than he ever had, even more than when Amanda had allowed him to put his arm around her. Even then he knew it was only because they were about to die. She’d never truly be able to love him. Tessa however, was showing general interest. The tracks lead to a cave opening in the tundra floor. Striker leaned over the edge. The floor was only six feet down. He leaned back and sighed.

“More caves.” He muttered, “What is it with this planet and caves.”

“What?” Tessa frowned.

“Long story.” Striker shrugged as he tossed his equipment down the hole.

“You’re not going down there, are you?” Tessa frowned as she pointed at the hole.

“Yep.” Striker smiled, and jumped down.

Tessa looked around then closed her eyes as she jumped. She expected to hit the floor hard. Instead she opened her eyes and found herself in Strikers arms.

“Thanks.” She blushed.

“My pleasure.” He smiled then set her down.

He picked up his gear and looked around. The cave was dark and narrow. They’d have to walk single file. Striker pulled a small lantern from his pack and flipped the switch.

“You’ve thought of everything.” Tessa smiled.

“Comes with being an experienced hunter.” Striker boasted.

Tessa frowned. The smile drained from his face then he turned and began trekking down the tunnel. Tessa stayed close to him, afraid that she might lose him. They continued hiking for several hours. Every so often they would see a scratch or scrape in the rock where the tunnel became a little too narrow for the androids. These signs kept driving them forward. Striker began thinking about what he would say to them when he finally caught them. The tunnel started to lighten as they came across small holes in the ceiling. Striker studied them as he walked. There was something about these holes that looked wrong. Tessa must have noticed it too because she spoke first.

“Those holes weren’t created by erosion or cave in.”

“I noticed that too.” Striker replied, “I’d guess some animal must have dug them.”

“Yes, but why so many so close together?” Tessa pondered.

“I’m no scientist.” Striker shook his head, “But I’d say there might have been a lot of them either trying to get in or trying to get what ever was in here.”

“That’s not a very comforting thought.” Tessa muttered hugging herself.

They trekked down the tunnel for a few more minutes then froze as a dark shadow passed overhead.

“What was that?” Tessa whispered.

“You know more about this place than me.” Striker replied.

“Not this far out.” Tessa shook her head.

The shadow came back and stopped directly over them. Striker signalled for quiet then inched down the tunnel. The creature twisted and turned as it tried to track them. Every now and then Striker caught a glimpse of brown hair through the holes. What ever this creature was one thing was clear, it was hunting them. Striker could see far enough ahead to where the holes ended and the tunnel angled down. Striker tapped Tessa on the shoulder and pointed down the tunnel. She nodded a reply. As if sensing what the humans were planning, a long pointed beak shot down through a hole and pierced Tessa in the shoulder. She cried out in pain. Striker went to swing his sword and hit the roof. The tunnel was too small for him to get a good chop.

“Striker!” Tessa cried out clawing at the beak, “It’s draining my blood!”

Striker dropped the sword and drew a handgun. He began to fire through one of the holes. The creature cried out and retreated. Tessa slumped against the tunnel wall. Striker knelt down to examine the wound.

“It’s not bad.” He said.

“Says you!” Tessa snapped, “I could feel it sucking up my blood.”

“I mean, it’s nothing Resta can’t fix.” Striker replied.

“Oh.” Tessa muttered.

Striker was just about to cast it when the beak returned. It just missed his shoulder. He grabbed Tessa by her good arm and hauled her to her feet then dragged her down the tunnel. She struggled to keep up with him and nearly tripped a couple of times. The creature continually jabbed its beak into the holes as the humans ran. Small bits of rock flew at them each time. The creature’s last attempt caught Striker in the boot causing him to fall flat on his face. Tessa stumbled ahead of him then collapsed. Striker gasped then looked back at his foot. The creature was holding him solid. No pain so it must have missed his foot but it had him pinned and made it impossible for him to pull his foot out of the boot. He drew his hand gun and fired at the beak.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-21 18:42 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FIVE

Doctor Mome rocked in his chair staring blankly at the small disk grasped between his fingers. His feet were resting up on the desk just in front of the blank monitor. He had expected things to cool off by now. They hadn’t. Security around the ship was still tight and only the hunter’s guild had access to the planet. He so desperately wanted to see the information on the disk but the lab was still being closely monitored. Three major accidents were enough to make anyone paranoid. First Dark Falz wipes out Pioneer One, then Olga Flow kills everyone on Gal Da Val Island, and now Lazarus destroys the secret artic research facility. This was not a good track record. It was enough to make Mome consider destroying the disk and all the samples, well almost. The trouble was IDOLA was the ultimate power. The dark force may be pure evil but it was still ultimate power. Mome, like so many others before him, was convinced he could harness and use this power. He’d just have to be more careful than Lazarus and Osto. He also didn’t have the resources that Osto and Lazarus had. Sure he still had Black Paper but their members had suffered a serious blow in the last battle and were in no shape to conduct business. He was still trying to repair Kireek. The physical damage was easy but his mental mind was a twisted mess. His mind had been a mess before the accident but now he barely even knew who he was and didn’t help that his Soul Eater continued to dissolve what was left of his sanity even though he had no idea where the weapon was being stored. No, Kireek was definitely out of the picture, which left Sue. Mome didn’t trust her. She may serve Black Paper but it wasn’t by choice. Black Paper owned her and there she’ll remain for the rest of her life. Still, she had no loyalty to them and often betrayed them at every opportunity. Her helping Deepfreeze and his friends was a perfect example. Unfortunately for Mome she was now in a controlling position within the organization and would no doubt work to free Black Paper from his control. Lazarus had done well to bribe the Black Paper leaders into his service and since most of them were killed in the lab explosion it had been easy for Mome to take control. This control was based on Sue’s cooperative nature. To maintain his secrecy he relied on her as his contact with Black Paper. The moment she realized that all she needed to do was to expose him, and then he’d be finished. He needed to eliminate her. Black Paper was in such ruins right now, they weren’t much use. He could cut them lose and still survive. Once this was done then he could sneak off to the back up lab in the southern hemisphere. Expansion was proceeding swiftly and won’t stay hidden for long. Worse yet that nosy do gooder ranger Deepfreeze had disappeared shortly after the defeat of Lazarus and no one had seen him since. People like him rarely died easily and always showed up when you least wanted them too. Mome thumbed the disk and glared at it. There was a knock at the door and Mome quickly tossed the disk into his desk drawer.

“Come.” He called.

Doctor Myers poked his head through the doorway. He was young at twenty three, had dark brown eyes and heavily tanned skin. His black hair was always slicked back. He was a hard worker and always aimed to please. Mome hated him.

“Here’s where you’re hiding.” Myers smiled.

Mome glared at him for a second then put his incompetent face on.

“Here I am.” He smiled.

“Have you finished the report on those artic Rappies yet?” Myers asked.

“No.” Mome replied, “My last test results came back corrupted. I have to run them again.”

“Really?” Myers exclaimed, “I finished the Polaroombas yesterday.”

“What can I say?” Mome shrugged, “You’re good.”

“I’ll let Doctor Benson know.” Myers waved and disappeared.

The smile drained from Mome’s face. Myers had to go too. That would be a personal one though. He retrieved the disk from the drawer and shoved it into his pocket. Time was short indeed.


“Falcon, watch out!” Sahara cried.

Falcon dove to the side narrowly avoiding a stomping cone. This was what felt like the hundredth time in the last three months, that they’ve tried to get past Volt Opt, to seal the ruins. Falcon and Sahara both sported new Guardians crest. The Guardians were a new division of the guild dedicated to protecting the people of Pioneer Two and completing jobs the military was incapable of handling. In fact the military was nearly obsolete with WORKS being the only real military presence left. Debbie Dawson was a yellow RAmarl and Sammy Howarth the FOnewm, who calls himself Flameout, rounded out Falcons team. Volt Opt attacked again with a volley of missiles. The missiles smashed into Sammy encasing him in a ball of fire. He screamed and collapsed writhing in pain. Debbie quickly cast Resta healing his wounds. He climbed to his feet and gave Volt Opt a massive blast of Foie. It hardly affected the giant machine.

“Oh come on.” He moaned, “That’s my best attack.”

Volt Opt turned and launched a green energy ball at him. He tried to move out of the way and found him self trapped in the center of the stone fingers.

“A little help here!” He called.

“On my way!” Debbie replied.

She ran around to his location just as Volt Opt released a Megid ball. It slowly floated toward the Newman. Debbie smiled and aimed her mechguns blasting the stone away. Sammy climbed out then gave Volt Opt the finger.

“Nice try!” He yelled.

Volt Opt locked a laser on him.

“Oh crap.” He sighed staring at the laser beam on his chest.

The stone cones dropped from the ceiling smashing the Newman into the ground. Debbie jumped back as a cone tried to drop on her, and then she ran forward to check on Sammy. He was bleeding badly and his leg was broken.

“Lay still, I’ll use Resta again.”

Sammy just moaned in pain. Before she could use her technique a giant mechanical claw extended from the top of Volt Opt and grabbed Debbie by the chest then threw her hard against the wall. She fell to the floor and remained still. Falcon growled and charged at the claw. He leapt up on Volt Opt’s chest then pushed off raising him up to the claws arm. He swung his Yamato down slicing through the arm on either side of the elbow. He landed with the claw crashing to the floor behind him. Sahara drove her daggers into Volt Opt healing pod, carving two deep gashes though the glowing emitter. The pod went dark and fell away.

“Now you can’t heal.” Sahara growled.

Volt Opt spun around and shot her with a ball of green energy. Three stone pillars rose from the ground around her. She was trapped. Volt Opt then dropped a floating ball of Megid. It slowly bounced across the floor heading straight for her.

“Falcon!” She cried.

Falcon stopped his attack on Volt Opt’s missile launcher and gasped. The Megid ball had almost reached his sister. He bolted for Sahara at full speed. Volt Opt dropped a series of cones blocking Falcon then stomped on him. The cone did not retract, pinning Falcon to the floor. He clawed at the floor desperately trying to free him self. The Megid ball hit Sahara. She crumpled to the floor.

“No!” Falcon cried.

Volt Opt released several volleys of missiles at him. Each barrage reduced his life until he felt the emergency transporter activate, and then darkness swept over him.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-21 18:45 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SIX

Cerberus, HitmanJ, Aphrodite, and Lisa stood helpless at the door to the control room, listening to the battle in side. They all sported Guardian crests. The door had sealed after Falcon’s team had entered. Cerberus’ team was escorting the maintenance crew that was going to seal the ruins with a new blast door. Cerberus gripped his newly acquired Justy 23ST rifle, wishing he could help his friends.

“This sucks.” HitmanJ cursed, “We should be helping them.”

“I know but with the doors locked, we can’t get in.” Cerberus replied.

The control room suddenly became very quiet. The small group stood in stunned silence. Cerberus’ BEE beeped.

“Uh oh.” Aphrodite gasped as she gripped HitmanJ’s arm, “This can’t be good.”

“Cerberus here.” He replied as he tapped his arm.

“This is the guild.” The girl replied, “Mission failed. Please return to the ship. Team Alpha has been sent to the hospital.”

“How are they?” Cerberus asked.

“Not good.” The girl replied, “Some of them are in pretty bad shape.”

“Understood.” Cerberus nodded then sighed, “Volt Opt wins again.”

Aphrodite cast Ryuker then let the maintenance team enter first. They left the door behind for the next attempt. The team reappeared on the promenade beside the check room. They hurried down the street to the hospital. The Newman nurse was waiting at the door.

“This way.” She waved.

They found Sahara stand beside Falcon who was seated on a bed. A technician was repairing some internal damage. Falcon glared at Aphrodite as she entered the room. She cowered behind HitmanJ. Falcon looked away without a word. Aphrodite peered out and sighed when she saw she was no longer getting the stare. After all they had been through; Falcon still hated her and everything she stood for. He simply could not bring himself to accept a Force. Sahara was her only contact to him.

“Didn’t go so well I take it?” Cerberus smiled.

“No.” Falcon replied flatly, “It didn’t.”

“How are the others?” HitmanJ asked.

“Debbie will be just fine.” Sahara smiled.

Her mouth may have been covered with her mask plate but her eyes shone the smile just as effectively, then it drained away. HitmanJ was always amazed at how well her eyes could display her emotional state.

“Sammy suffered some broken bones and a couple punctured organs but nothing they can’t heal.” Sahara sighed.

“I don’t get it.” HitmanJ huffed, “How does Volt Opt keep beating us?”

We faced way tougher odds in the artic.” Lisa said softly.

“Volt Opt learns.” Falcon grumbled, “Every time we face him he has something new.”

“It’s more than that.” Cerberus replied, He’s thinking stuff up before we get there. He’s not supposed to be that smart.”

“Maybe IT is controlling him?” Lisa suggested shyly.

“With the ruins open I wouldn’t be surprised.” Cerberus sighed, “Its influence is pouring out of that place.”

“Worse yet there’s been sightings of dark creatures around the Central Dome.” Aphrodite said, “Not to mention on the surface at other locations too.”

“D-cell infection is spreading faster than we can contain it.” Falcon growled.

“There.” The technician smiled, “You’re all done.”

Falcon hopped off the bed and rotated his joints. Nothing squeaked or creaked.

“Excellent work.” He said then added coldly, “For a human.”

“Falcon!” Sahara scolded, “Be nice.”

Falcon just glared at her. Sahara thanked the technician then led the group out.

“That’s some sister you’ve got there.” HitmanJ smiled.

“You have no idea.” Falcon grumbled.

Aphrodite jabbed him in the arm and frowned.

“What.” HitmanJ shrugged.

“That’s for looking at another woman.” Aphrodite chirped.

“Oh brother.” HitmanJ sighed.

Cerberus followed everyone to the commercial district but instead of going to the grill house with his friends, he broke off and went to the little café that he and Deepfreeze had spent many a morning. He sat down at their usual table. The waiter strolled up to him and smiled.

“Hello Cerberus.” He smiled, “Your usual?”

“Please.” Cerberus nodded.

The waiter smiled and hurried off to fetch the monomate. Deepfreeze had disappeared after his mysterious meeting on Gal Da Val Island. He never came to say goodbye or left any messages. Whatever he was in must be big or so dangerous he didn’t want to risk his best friend. It just shows how well he knew Cerberus. Had he come back to say goodbye, Cerberus would never had let him leave alone. Even now he worried for his friend. The waiter dropped off his order then left without a word. Cerberus stared at the plate. He was lost in thought when a sweet voice snapped him back to reality. He turned and found Amanda smiling at him.

“Amanda.” He smiled back, “What are you doing here?”

“I was in the neighbourhood.” She shrugged.

Cerberus frowned.

“All right.” She sighed taking the seat across from him, “I was hoping he’d be here.”

“I’m worried about him too.” Cerberus replied.

“How could he just leave like that?” She exhaled trying to hold back a tear.

“Deepfreeze must have had his reasons.” Cerberus said taking her hand, “Obviously he
wanted to protect us from something.”

“But to just up and disappear like that.” Amanda sniffed, “I’ve spent the last ten months wondering and worrying. I miss him. Everyday it hurts a little more and now I just received bad news from Coral.”

She sat a pad down in front of Cerberus and wiped away a tear from her check. Cerberus picked up the pad and scanned through it.

“They’ve lost contact with Pioneer Three. Search and rescue ships have been sent out but have found nothing!” He read, “This is terrible. It’s strange though, no distress signals, no wreckage, no nothing.”

“My father and sister were on that ship.” Amanda began crying.

“I’m so sorry.” Cerberus said, “Come on, I’ll take you home.”

She just nodded and wiped away the tears. They didn’t say anything until they reached the Yellowboz section. Amanda stepped on the elevator then turned to Cerberus.

“Aren’t you coming in?”

“Only if you want me too.” Cerberus replied.

“I could use a friend.” She sniffed.

“Then a friend you shall have.” Cerberus smiled.

He stepped on the elevator and rode it up to Amanda’s floor. The apartment was still sparsely furnished with only a few personal items decorating the shelves. Cerberus slowly made his way around, inspecting each piece. Some were very old while others were common little trinkets. None of them reminded Cerberus of Amanda.

“This is a very interesting collection.” He said, “None seem like you though.”

“They’re gifts from friends back on Coral.” Amanda replied, “If it weren’t for the memories I wouldn’t keep half this stuff. I keep the ones from my father and sister in my bed room.”

“I see.” Cerberus nodded.

“I wonder what happened to them.” Amanda muttered.

“Your family?” Cerberus asked.

Amanda nodded.

“I can contact Coral and see if they have the last co-ordinates of Pioneer Three.” Cerberus said, “It would be a start.”

“What are you suggesting?” Amanda frowned.

“We might be able to get a shuttle and go look for them.” Cerberus said.

“Coral has more than a dozen ships out looking for them.” Amanda shrugged, “How would we ever find them?”

“Maybe they got closer to Ragol than Coral.” Cerberus tilted his head slightly, “We might get lucky and run across them.”

“That’s a big might.” Amanda smiled, “Anything we can do, I want to do it. I can’t sit here and just wait.”

“I’ll contact you as soon as I learn anything.” Cerberus said and turned to leave.”

“Thank you.” Amanda said softly.

“That’s what friends are for.” Cerberus waved and walked out.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-21 18:51 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SEVEN

The next morning Amanda found HitmanJ and Aphrodite waiting at the transporter in the lab. They had been hired by a real estate agent by the name of Henry Grayson. There was a piece of beach front property that he wanted to develop into a resort. He had an energy fence built along the property line to keep the wild animals out but needed the ones that were already there, cleared out.

“Should be an easy chore for the Guardians of Pioneer.” He had smirked.

Amanda didn’t like the man very much but she needed the Meseta. She had asked Cerberus to come too but he was busy with Falcon and Sahara, as they attempted another run at Volt Opt. Lisa was the fourth person rounding out the attack group and couldn’t go either. With Striker gone and Crystal working the desk at the training center they just couldn’t find anyone willing to go as a fourth.

“Shall we go?” HitmanJ asked.

“After you.” Amanda smiled.

He stepped into the transporter and reappeared in front of the Central Control Area. The girls appeared behind him. He went over to the island’s transporter and selected the new seaside location. Guests would be using this until a direct link with the ship was established. He followed the girls into the transporter. He appeared standing in knee deep water. The girls were already headed for the beach. He ran to catch up.

“I think they need to readjust the transporter.” He muttered.

“I know.” Aphrodite said plopping down on the beach.

She pulled her boots off and poured the water out. The sun was warm and the sea breeze was crisp and clean. She closed her eyes and soaked it up for a moment. HitmanJ tapped her on the shoulder and signalled for her to come. She nodded and pulled her boots back on as quickly as she could. Amanda checked the fence and found it still operational.

“We’re still good here.” She called.

“OK let’s move through the over grown areas and clear out any trouble makers.” HitmanJ said drawing his Justice mechguns.

Aphrodite gripped her Hildebears cane tightly and followed him into the undergrowth. Amanda brought up the rear, pulling her daggers from her pack. She was the only one in their group of friends who hadn’t found a special weapon to replace the one’s she’d lost. Even Sahara had found a pair of Bloody Art. The undergrowth opened to a small clearing where a Gui- Gue had set up a nest. There were four poison pods, each capable of releasing Gui. These large flying insects were capable of firing its stinger and HitmanJ didn’t like the thought of that. If they moved quickly enough, they might be able to take to pods out before they could release their contents. The trouble would come from any Gui who came to the aid of their queen. HitmanJ signalled for Amanda to go right and Aphrodite to move left. He signalled to go and they took off for their targets. The Gui-Gue screamed as the hunters destroyed her pods. She flew down in front of HitmanJ blocking him from the last pod. She launched a spiked ball at him which exploded in a cloud of poison gas. His mask prevented it from entering his lungs. Amanda charged from the side, digging her daggers into its abdomen. Aphrodite started to attack as well.

“No!” HitmanJ cried, “Take out that pod!”

She nodded and headed for the last target. The Gui-Gue flew up and whipped its abdomen to the right, throwing Amanda off. She screamed as she plummeted to the ground. HitmanJ bolted in her direction and arrived just in time for her to land on him. She slowly rolled off and smiled at him painfully.

“Thank you.”

“You’re quite welcome.” HitmanJ groaned as he climbed to his feet.

He helped her up then charged with mechguns blazing. The Gui-Gue raised a defence shield, blocking most of his shots. Three Gui dropped down from the trees. Aphrodite turned and blasted it with Foie. It dropped to the ground and tried to crawl away.

“No you don’t.” Aphrodite said squashing the bug.

HitmanJ received a stinger to the back knocking him on his face. He rolled to his back and fired blasting the bug to a pulp. Amanda was chasing the last one around the small field. The Gui-Gue dropped down and launched a spike ball at her. The explosion knocked her sideways. The Gui stopped and launched a stinger at her. It hit the ground right next to her head.

“Too close.” She gasped.

HitmanJ turned and fired at the Gui-Gue but it had erected its force shield again. The Gui flew to the right buzzing Aphrodite’s head. She swung her cane at it but missed completely. Amanda charged it from the rear swinging just as the bug shot at HitmanJ. The stinger missed but the dagger struck home. Amanda looked at the writhing insect stuck to her dagger with disgust.

“Not much fun is it.” She said.

She flicked the bug off then stomped on it. The Gui-Gue flew past her brushing her head with its legs. Amanda threw her arm out and released a ball of fire. The fire attack blasted through the shield and set the insect on fire.

“Yes.” Aphrodite squealed then cast Zonde.

A bolt of electricity rained down on it blasting it to pieces. The hunters had to duck as insect parts rained down covering them in goo.

“Oh yuck.” Aphrodite squealed, “This is so gross.”

“New rule.” Amanda said as she spat out some goo, “No blowing up any more bugs.”

“Let’s head back to the beach and wash up.” HitmanJ said shaking the goo off his guns.

The trek back through the brush left them covered in leaves and twigs. The goo was drying quickly in the tropical heat and was becoming very sticky. HitmanJ stepped into the water and proceeded to wash it off. Amanda waded a little deeper before she started cleaning. Aphrodite was the last to exit the bush. She took one look at the water and took off at full speed. She splashed the others as she ran by then dove head first into the water. She came up sitting on the sand bottom and laughing like a little kid. Amanda looked at HitmanJ then shrugged with a smile and chased after Aphrodite. HitmanJ watched the girls playing just like kids. It amazed him how Amanda could act so mature one minute then switch it off and have a ball next. It was probably why she was so good with kids. Aphrodite, on the other hand, just hadn’t grown up yet, but that was one of the reasons he loved her. He finished washing up then stretched out on the beach. There was no time requirement on this quest so they might as well enjoy the fresh air. HitmanJ was just dozing off when he heard a rustling in the brush. He sat up and pulled his top back on then scanned the plant growth. The noise came again from his right, then his left. Slowly he pulled his mask back on and picked up his mechguns. The noise came from directly in front, yet he saw nothing. Small circular foot prints in the sand came charging at him. Something smashed into him, sending him flying back. The girls stopped and looked just in time to see him land flat on his back. More foot prints skittered across the beach.

“Do you hear that?” Amanda asked.

“Sounds familiar huh.” Aphrodite replied, “I left my cane on the beach.”

“Move slow.” Amanda muttered, “They haven’t entered the water yet.”

Aphrodite nodded and slowly followed her friend. Amanda pulled out her daggers and held them ready. Something splashed through the water in front of her then scurried up on to the beach to meet a second set of prints.

“That’s two.” Aphrodite said softly.

“There’s at least one more in the shadows by the brush.” Amanda replied, “Probably more waiting in the under growth.”

HitmanJ slowly moved up beside them. A third set of prints skittered out from the shaded beach.

“One for each of us.” HitmanJ said, “Any more?”

“I can’t hear anymore.” Amanda replied, “But that doesn’t mean anything.”

“One’s guarding my cane.” Aphrodite whispered.

“Then he’s yours.” Amanda nodded, “I’ve got your back.”

Aphrodite ran forward then cast Foie. The spider screamed as it jumped back and became visible. Aphrodite ran up and grabbed her cane. The spider stared at her with an unyielding glare. Aphrodite stared right back at it then smiled.

“So we meet again.”

The spider took a step forward as if to challenge her. Aphrodite gripped her cane tight. The spider clicked its claws. Amanda stood behind her friend listening for the other one. It wasn’t moving.

“I’ve beaten you guys before.” Aphrodite growled, “You don’t stand a chance.”

The spider charged forward. Aphrodite swung her cane releasing a fire ball. The spider was blasted back. The other spider charged but Amanda jumped forward digging her daggers into its side. Purple blood oozed from invisible wounds. It twisted around throwing her off balance. Her left dagger caught a leg as she went down. The spider lost its cloak and spun to face her. The dagger had cut halfway through the leg. It hung useless from just below the joint. Amanda tried to get up but the spider jumped on her. Two large fangs extended from the sides of its mouth.

“You lose.” Amanda grinned.

She swung the daggers slicing through the fangs, and then drove the blades up into the spiders head. It let out a garbled scream as purple blood poured out of the mouth. It was warm and sticky on Amanda’s exposed belly.

“Gross.” She grumbled and crawled away from the dying creature.

Aphrodite continued to blast the spider until it finally burned to death. HitmanJ intercepted the third one before it could reach the girls. His mechguns blasted chunks out of the creature until it finally died. Amanda ran back into the water and washed off the blood. She was just about finished when a noise made her freeze. Aphrodite had stopped to listen as well. HitmanJ looked around but couldn’t see anything. He could tell from the way the Newman’s were acting something very dangerous was coming.

“Amanda, do you hear what I hear?” Aphrodite asked.

“Ya, what is that?” Amanda replied.

“I don’t know.” Aphrodite shook her head, “I’ve never heard anything like that.”

Something in the undergrowth was making a soft gurgling noise. Then there was a second, then a third. Amanda finally counted at least ten distinct gurgling voices. Four creatures crawled into the beach. They looked like blobs of clear purple jell with four long legs. The head was canine shaped with a long snout. They didn’t have any visible teeth or internal organs. The eyes were simply little black balls floating inside the head. Six more crawled out behind the first four. Purple slime dripped from their mouths. HitmanJ took a quick scan with the computer terminal on his left forearm then transmitted it back to the lab. He waited just a few seconds before his communicator beeped.

“Go ahead.” He said.

“Hitman, this is the lab.” Elly replied.

“What have you got for me?” HitmanJ asked.

“Initial readings indicate these are dark creatures.” Elly said, “They appear to consist of some sort of bio protoplasm. Same unusual photon energy signature as the other dark creatures we’ve encountered. No sign of internal organs, muscle structure or skeletal frame.”

“I can see that.” HitmanJ frowned.

“You can?” Elly asked with a hint at surprise, “How?”

“They’re transparent.” HitmanJ replied, “Like purple blobs of hair gel.”

“Really.” Elly exclaimed, “You’ve got to get me a picture."

“I hate to interrupt this little chat.” Amanda called, “But they are getting closer.”

“And they’re all slimy and gross.” Aphrodite added.

The creatures split up and surrounded the hunters. The ones standing in the water nearly disappeared. The hunters moved together taking a defensive stance.

“I don’t think we can take this many.” Aphrodite whispered.

“What do we do now?” Amanda asked.

“The only thing we can do.” HitmanJ shrugged, “Take out as many as possible.”

The creatures charged. HitmanJ open fired. One creature exploded in a spray of purple goo. He turned to the next. The puddles of goo collected together and reformed. The second creature exploded from the hail of bullets. HitmanJ turned to see the first one charging again.

“Oh this is bad.” He muttered.

Aphrodite blasted one with Foie as Amanda dug her daggers into another, tearing it to pieces. Both creatures reformed.

“How do you fight these?” Amanda cried.

The creature swung a leg at her knocking her down.

“Amanda!” Aphrodite cried, “Are you all right!”

“Look out!” Amanda yelled.

Aphrodite turned just as a creature jumped on her. It oozed around her sucking her in. She struggled to free herself from the slimy prison. A second one tried to absorb Amanda. She tore it to pieces with her daggers then leapt to her feet. She ran up to Aphrodite and cut a slit in the creature with her dagger. The creature tried to bat her away with a leg that actually stretched the length of its body. Amanda ducked then reached in and grabbed Aphrodite’s arm. She had to use all her strength to pull her friend free. Aphrodite popped free landing on her.

“Thank you.” Aphrodite said as she gasped for air.

“You’re welcome.” Amanda smiled and jumped to her feet.

The creature turned to face her. Fluid slowly oozed from the wound. It charged at her. She side stepped it and raked her dagger along its side. The creature screamed as fluid drained from the wound. The creature quickly deflated like a leaking water balloon. Amanda turned to the next creature only to find two of them bearing down on her. HitmanJ continued to blast apart creatures that charged at him only to have them reform and continued attacking. Aphrodite wasn’t having any better luck. The blobs of goo from Amanda’s creature began to reform as well. The empty membrane was still lying on the sand.

“This is impossible!” Amanda cried, “We can’t keep fighting them forever.”

“I know.” HitmanJ replied, “We have to return to the ship.”

“How do we do that exactly?” Aphrodite shouted while smashing a monster in the head with her cane, “They’re not exactly going to let us just walk out.”

The creatures kept pressing them in closer and closer until they were unable to fight effectively any more.

“Looks like this is it.” Amanda said kicking a monster back.

“It’s been an honour fighting with you.” HitmanJ replied.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-21 18:58 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER EIGHT

A spread of five shots lanced out from the bush. Each shot was a dart that stuck in the side of a creature. A second shot hit the remaining five creatures. They began to scream as they inflated, bubbling and gurgling, finally popping like over filled balloons. Goo sprayed everywhere. Amanda wiped her face then turned to were the shots had come from. Hope and excitement welled up inside her until she took off at full speed. HitmanJ pulled off his mask just as she ran.

“Amanda come back!” He called but she was gone.

Amanda dove into the bush. Sticks and leaves stung her face as she tore through the growth only to run into the energy fence. It threw her back. She landed on her butt. She looked around trying to find the shooter. She saw nothing and heard nothing. She just sat and began to cry. She tried to hold them back but the pain inside had built up for so long she couldn’t control it. HitmanJ caught her and stopped behind her. He slowly sat down and hugged her.

“I know.” He said softly, “I miss him too.”

“I don’t understand.” She sobbed.

Aphrodite forced her way through then stopped behind them remaining very quiet.

“How could he have just left me like that?” Amanda cried, “I know I told him I thought of him as a brother but I think I was wrong. I know I was wrong.”

“Strange thing love is.” HitmanJ said, “It can hide its true colours until the worst possible moment then hit you like a cargo ship.”

“Or when it’s gone.” Aphrodite said quietly.

“Then what good is it?” Amanda sobbed in his shoulder.

“When you have it.” HitmanJ replied looking back at Aphrodite, “It’s the most wonderful thing in the universe.”

“Well this sucks!” Amanda cried.

“I know it hurts.” HitmanJ said, “You will get over it. It won’t hurt forever, and when you do find Mr Right, you’ll know what I’m saying.”

“Amanda.” Aphrodite said softly, “Haven’t you ever been dumped before?”

Amanda shook her head, “I was never anywhere long enough. My family was constantly moving.”

“Surely you had boyfriends?” Aphrodite asked.

“Ya but I never got close enough to them to feel this kind of hurt.” Amanda sniffed.

“I’m sorry.” Aphrodite sighed, “I didn’t know.”

“Tell you what.” HitmanJ said wiping away her tears, “I’ll find Deepfreeze and beat him up for you.”

“Thanks.” Amanda smiled through blood shot eyes, “You’re a real friend. Aphrodite’s lucky to have you.”

“Yes I am.” Aphrodite grinned.

HitmanJ’s com receiver beeped. He looked at it and read “MISSION COMPLETE” scroll across his screen.

“Come on.” He said helping Amanda to her feet, “Let’s get back to the ship.”

Cerberus was standing beside the transporter nursing a large cut in his arm. He turned and smiled when HitmanJ’s team appeared.

“How’d it go?” He smiled.

“Not what we were expecting.” HitmanJ replied still dripping with goo.

“I can see that.” Cerberus frowned, “What is that?”

“Let’s just say, strange creatures keep showing up on that island.” HitmanJ replied, “Those cloaking spiders are spreading too.”

Cerberus shook his head, “I was afraid of that.”

“I take it things didn’t go well.” HitmanJ nodded pointing at Cerberus’ arm.

“Still can’t get past him.” Cerberus sighed, “I don’t understand it. He used to be cake.”

“Things are changing fast on this planet.” HitmanJ shrugged.

“It’s gearing up to something big.” Amanda said, “I can feel it.”

“Me too.” Aphrodite nodded.

Well, on the bright side.” HitmanJ smiled, “No one can enter the ruins even if the door is wide open.”

“All it takes is one.” Cerberus frowned, “Besides the dark creatures can still leave. They’re already causing problems planet side as you know.”

“I don’t know about you ladies but I’m going to get cleaned up.” HitmanJ said, “Right after I get my Meseta.”

“I’m right behind you.” Aphrodite chirped.

“Grab mine too!” Amanda called.

Aphrodite turned and nodded. Cerberus watched them leave then turned to Amanda.

“I received the last known coordinates of Pioneer Three this morning.” He said, “They were very close to Ragol. Only a couple weeks away.”

“What.” Amanda cried, “You mean they were practically here.”

“Looks like it.” Cerberus nodded, “I’ve acquired the use of a shuttle. We can leave first thing tomorrow.”

“Thank you.” She smiled, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

She waved as she ran for home. Cerberus waved back until she disappeared in the warp. He put his arm down then frowned at his damaged arm. With a sigh he entered the hospital and waited for repairs.





<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-08-21 19:06 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER NINE

The shot blasted the tip of the beak off, freeing Strikers boot. Tessa had managed to crawl out of the creatures reach. Striker quickly scampered over to where she lay. He let out a deep breath then looked back to see his sword lying on the tunnel floor.

“Ah crap.” He muttered.

“What’s wrong?” Tessa asked.

She looked at him through dark dim pain filled eyes. The usual shine gone. She had gone very pale do to blood loss. She needed help soon.

“I left my sword back in the tunnel.” He replied, “Stay here. I won’t be long.”

“Where am I going to go?” She smiled weakly.

Striker bolted down the tunnel, grabbed his sword, and raced back. He reached Tessa just as the beak crashed through the ceiling. He grabbed Tessa by the arm and hauled her to her feet. He dragged her down the tunnel until the attack stopped. They both collapsed on the tunnel floor.

“What was that thing?” Striker gasped.

“Don’t know.” Tessa horsed, “Striker, I don’t think I can go any further.”

“What?” Striker cried, “Tessa, don’t say that. I’m going to get you help. Hold on a little longer please. You’re the only girl I’ve ever met who hasn’t wanted to punch my lights out. I won’t lose you now.”

“You’re very sweet.” Tessa whispered, “Those other girls don’t know what they’re missing.”

“I know, I can’t figure out what their problem it. We need to keep moving.” Striker said then pulled some monomate from his pack, “Here eat this. It’ll help you to keep going.”

“Monomate.” Tessa smiled, “Thank you.”

She ate it very slowly but by the time she finished she was feeling much better. Striker had bandaged her wound while she ate. His Resta had closed the wound but he couldn’t do anything about her blood loss except give her some water. He’d have to get to the surface to do that. There wasn’t any snow of sufficient quantity in the tunnel to melt down. Tessa climbed to her feet and followed Striker to the end of the tunnel. It opened on to a cliff that over looked a small valley. They could see lights on the valley floor.

“Santa’s village.” Striker muttered.

“What?” Tessa asked as she stopped beside him.

“Nothing.” Striker shook his head, “Let’s go see if they’re friendly.”

“How long do you think they’ve been here?” Tessa asked.

“Not long.” Striker replied.

They reached the bottom and quietly entered the small village. Most of the structures were small simple shelters that could be quickly assembled. There was a large hall at the far edge of the village with a pub built beside it. Striker looked around then headed for the pub. Tessa followed him up to the steps. They could hear loud music playing inside along with the occasional shout and the sound of breaking bottles. Striker reached for the door. Tessa grabbed his arm.

“You’re not going in there.” She said.

“Sure.” Striker nodded, “Sounds like every ones inside.”

“It sounds dangerous.” Tessa frowned.

“No worse than any other place I’ve been to.” Striker shrugged.

He pulled the door open and walked inside. Tessa clung to his back. Some of the people at the bar looked at them but most just ignored them. Striker started for the bar.

“Weapons at the door!” The bartender said.

“Huh?” Striker frowned.

“You have to leave your weapons at the door.” The bartender said pointing at his Red Sword.

“Oh.” Striker replied and set it up against the wall.

“What’ll it be?” The bartender asked.

“Ale.” Striker said, “And a large glass of water for the lady.”

The bartender frowned and looked at Tessa.

“She’s healing from an animal attack.” Striker whispered.

“Ah.” The bartender nodded, “Right away then.”

Striker and Tessa took a seat as the bartender served their drinks. Striker took a sip and nearly gagged. Tessa downed the water then asked for more. Striker waited for the bartender to leave.

“This is the worst stuff I’ve ever tasted.” He whispered.

“We’re lucky this place even existed.” Tessa whispered back.

“Say.” The bartender said setting down Tessa’s water, “You two aren’t from around here are you?”

“We just came in from the tundra.” Striker replied.

“Did Sue send you here?” The bartender asked squinting one eye.

“Who?” Striker asked looking up from his glass, “Oh no, we’re here to meet with a couple of androids.”

“Friends of yours?” The bartender asked flatly.

“Yes.” Striker nodded.

“I’m sure they’re around her some where.” The bartender said, “After all, we’re the only northern settlement on Ragol.”

“Don’t I know it.” Striker said downing the last of the ale.

“Is there some place we could stay for the night?” Tessa asked.

“Certainly.” The bartender nodded, “Just see Ruth-Ann over there. She’ll set you up.”

“Thank you.” Tessa nodded.

She slowly climbed from the stool. The affects of the monomate were starting to wear off. Striker grabbed her arm and helped her across the room. They stopped in front of a large woman who looked to be in her early forties. She had short black hair and green eyes with gold speckles. She was wearing a heavy red parka and matching snow pants. She looked up at the new comers.

“Looking for rooms?” She asked.

Striker and Tessa nodded.

“Is she all right?” Ruth-Ann asked.

“She just needs some rest.” Striker replied, “We’ve been traveling a long way.”

“Right.” Ruth-Ann slapped her thighs, “This way.”

She led them across the village to a small dark shelter. She pulled a set of keys from her pocket and unlocked the door. Tessa and Striker entered first. Ruth-Ann flipped the lights on then hit the heater switch.

“It isn’t much but it does stay fairly warm.” She said, “Stay as long as you need. Return the keys when you’re done.”

She turned and left before Striker could thank her. He turned back to find Tessa asleep on the bed. Her skin clothes were lying on the floor. He pulled the blanket over her naked body then kissed her on the cheek. She murmured slightly then rolled from her stomach to her side facing away from him.

“Tomorrow I’ll find you some real clothes.” He promised, “I guess living alone for so long makes you forget about modesty huh. Not much need for it really.”

He rubbed her cheek softly then continued, “Don’t worry; I didn’t see anything except your cute butt. Your dignity is still safe.”

He climbed from the side of her bed and entered the small bathroom. A shower stall was tucked away in the corner. Striker climbed in as soon as the water was hot and washed away a years worth of grime. He had never felt so good to be clean in his entire life. He dried off, got dressed, and left Tessa to sleep. Quietly stepping through the door, Striker turned to face the setting sun. It was just sinking below the valley ridge casting a bright orange glow on the black clouds that were moving in from the south. They’d be getting more snow tonight. Striker stepped down from the front door and headed back to the pub. The crisp snow crunched with every foot step. The air was cold and crisp but without any wind it was quite pleasant. Each breath exhaled in a cloud of water vapour as Striker trekked across the dark settlement. All the resident buildings were dark and quiet. The only lights came from the pub and the hall. Striker opened the door to find the pub half full. Even as he entered, a group of four pushed their way past him then turned and entered the hall. Striker shrugged and took a seat at the bar. The bartender frowned at him.

“Not attending the meeting?” He asked.

“What meeting?” Striker replied with a frown of his own.

“The weekly freedom meeting.” The bartender said, “Every member knows about it.”

“That little detail was left out when they asked me to come here.” Striker lied.

“Well, we can use all the help we can get.” The bartender smiled.

“Maybe I had better check out that meeting then.” Striker shrugged.

“Better get going.” The bartender nodded.

Striker slid off his stool and went next door to the hall. He quietly crept in and took a spot at the back of the room. The hall was packed with hunters from Pioneer Two. Striker didn’t recognize anyone. Everyone was talking in small groups. Striker caught bits and pieces of talk about freedom and getting back to business. The crowd quieted when a dark skinned HUnewearl with short pink hair stepped on the stage.

“Sue!” Striker gasped.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-09-22 11:51 ]</font>

[Freeze]

“Thank you all for coming.” Sue said, “I see a few more managed to join our ranks here in our frozen sanctuary. This is good. I know we all expected control to return to us with Doctor Lazarus’ death but that didn’t happen. Many of us are still threatened with Blackmail, arrest, family endangerment, and even death. I myself am risking my life by just being here. I have learned that our Black Hound had been freed from WORKS, but is now in custody of the controlling scientist. He has taken control of all of Lazarus’ research and equipment. Even now he is preparing to move to the new facility in the south. The Black Paper board of directors are being held there. I believe this is where they took Black Hound. Our first step is to rescue him. Then we must retrieve the information the scientist is holding against us as well as taking out his hit men. The hit men will have to be a coordinated strike as to minimize our personal losses. None of us wants to see another member get hurt; we all want to get back to making money.”

Everyone cheered. Sue waited until the noise died before continuing.

“A small rescue force is being assembled to retrieve Black Hound.” Sue said, “Anyone interested should speak with Dirge and Demoneye.”

The red RAcast and green HUcast that Striker had been following stepped on stage. It was all he could do to keep from rushing up on stage and attacking them. He didn’t have his weapon anyway. The androids stepped off the stage and remained in the corner. Several hunters approached them. Striker began pushing his way through the crowd. If the androids left on this mission, he’d lose them for sure. He had to join their team. As much as this idea made his stomach turn, he had no other options. Several hunters were trying to pitch themselves for the mission. The only way to get noticed was to be the strongest. It was time for Striker to dig deep inside and bring out the obnoxious jerk that had made Amanda loath him so very much. The jerk that picked a fight with every android he’d ever met. The jerk, Striker had spent the last year trying to bury. He came back way too easily. He grabbed two HUmars by the arm and yanked them away.

“Out of my way!” He yelled, “This job requires only the strongest hunters and that’s me!”

He pushed a RAmar and a HUnewearl flat on they’re faces then shoulder checked a HUcast. The two androids stared down at him as he glared back.

“You need me!” Striker announced, “Want me or not, I’m going!”

“This one’s got balls.” The red RAcast smiled.

“Indeed.” The green HUcast cooed, “But he’s got a bad eye. Can’t have imperfect hunters on such an important mission.”

“Even with one eye I could still kick your butt.” Striker said jabbing the HUcast in the chest.

“He’s got attitude too, Dirge.” The RAcast laughed.

Dirge growled and pushed Striker to the floor. Striker jumped to his feet and leapt at Dirge knocking the android down. He grabbed Dirge’s chest plate and shook him with all his fury.

“I am better than you.” Striker growled, “And you will pay for everything you are. Never forget this.”

Demon eye grabbed Striker by the collar and hauled him off Dirge.

“All right.” He said, “You’ve impressed me. Only someone truly brave would tackle Dirge.”

“Or truly stupid.” Dirge grumbled as he climbed to his feet.

“You’re in.” Demoneye said.

“Of coarse I am.” Striker replied dusting himself off.

“You win round one.” Dirge growled, “Do that again and I’ll have your head.”

Striker just smiled. Inside he was seething with anger but he couldn’t let the androids know. He turned and started to leave.

“Hey!” Demoneye called.

Striker turned and glared, hoping that his cover hadn’t been blown.

“We leave at eight in the morning.” Demoneye said.

Striker nodded and pushed his way through the crowd. He took deep gulps of air trying to calm him self. He needed a drink. The bartender smiled as Striker strolled in.

“You look like a man that could use some relief.” The bartender said.

“You have no idea.” Striker sighed as he plopped down on a stool.

The bartender sat a shot glass down and poured a very dark brown liquid. Striker picked up the glass and took a sniff. He squinted as the vapour stung his nose.

“What is this stuff?” He frowned.

“The first ever liquor brewed here on Ragol using Ragol's own plants.” The bartender boasted, “It’s quite good. I tried it myself.”

Striker gulped the liquid down and began choking. The bartender laughed and poured him another shot.

“Told you it was good.”

Striker nodded and wiped the tears from his eyes. His right eye may not have sight in it but the tear ducts were fully functional. It’s probably what has prevented it from needing removal. He picked up the glass and eyed the liquid. He was so close to avenging his family. For the first time he began thinking about what he’d do after his vengeance was complete. He began considering having his bad eye replaced. Hopefully Tessa would stay with him, maybe even give him the future he had dreamed about. The one his father had before it was so brutally taken away. He downed the drink, choking only a little this time.

“It gets better.” He horsed.

“You’re not planning on going anywhere tonight?” The bartender asked.

“We’re in the middle of no where.” Striker shrugged, “Where am I going to go.”

“Right, have another.” The bartender smiled.

Striker finally had his fill after four more drinks. He was feeling quite drunk and stumbled all the way back to his cabin. He crashed through the door, waking Tessa up. He fell on the cot placed across from her. She slowly slide off her cot and sat down beside him. She softly rubbed his forehead.

“They’re here.” He grumbled.

“I know.” She said softly.

“I’m working for them.” Striker groaned.

“What?” Tessa exclaimed, “What are you talking about?”

Striker didn’t reply. He was fast asleep fighting the nightmares that haunted him.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-09-22 11:58 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER NINE

Cerberus was already waiting in the shuttle bay when Amanda arrived. He was standing in front of a small two man shuttle. Amanda frowned as she looked it over.

“We’re supposed to explore space in this?”

“It’s faster than it looks.” Cerberus smiled.

Amanda shrugged and climbed inside. Cerberus took a seat at the controls. He flipped a switch that sealed the hatch then started the engines. The shuttle lifted off the pad and slowly floated toward the hanger doors.

“Pioneer control.” Cerberus radioed, “This is shuttle two three eight bravo, ready for departure.”

The hanger doors slid open and Cerberus eased the throttle forward. The shuttle cleared the doors and banked into a turn that brought them out behind the ship.

“Shuttle two three eight bravo, you are cleared from Pioneer control.” The controller announced, “Good luck and Gods speed.”

“Thank you control.” Cerberus replied, “Shuttle two three eight bravo out.”

He pushed the throttle forward and the shuttle began to vibrate as it jumped to light speed. Amanda monitored the sensor screens as Cerberus began tracking the route Pioneer Two used to arrive at Ragol. Several hours passed by without a sign. Amanda started to nod off when her panel beeped. She snapped alert and read through the data.

“What is it?” Cerberus asked.

“Looks like a ship.” Amanda said, “Too small to be Pioneer Three.”

“Could be a colony ship from Pioneer Three that got separated.” Cerberus suggested.

“Maybe but that would be an indication of trouble.” Amanda shrugged, “Blast, it’s gone. Looks like it was headed for Ragol anyway.”

“We still have to find the rest of the ship.” Cerberus said.

“That’s assuming it was a piece of Pioneer Three.” Amanda sighed.

“Don’t worry.” Cerberus smiled squeezing her shoulder, “We’ll find them.”

“Thanks.” She smiled back, “I’m so glad you’re my friend.”

“I always will be.” Cerberus replied, “You’re the little sister I never had.”

“Ah that’s so sweet.” Amanda giggled.

“I never had a true family.” Cerberus said reading his panel, “I pretty much grew up with Deepfreeze so he was like my older brother. My creator was my father and I had no mother. Deepfreeze’s mother was the closest thing I had I guess.”

“That’s a strange name to call your kid don’t ya think?” Amanda smirked.

“Hey, I like my name.” Cerberus smiled.

“Not you.” Amanda laughed jabbing Cerberus’ arm.

“Deepfreeze is his hunters name of course!” Cerberus laughed back.

“So.” Amanda nodded, “What is his real name?”

“Sorry.” Cerberus sighed, “That’s only for him to reveal.”

“Oh.” Amanda pouted.

“That’s not going to work.” Cerberus smiled shaking his head.

“Rats.” Amanda replied crossing her arms.

The sensor panel beeped again. They were coming up on a large asteroid field a few light-years off their course. The sensors were picking up a metallic signature. Cerberus increased speed and changed coarse. They arrived at the edge of the field as pieces of metal began pounding the shuttle. Cerberus slowed to a stop so they could assess the area. The asteroids appeared to be fairly stable and safe to navigate. A large piece of a ship was drifting deep inside the field. Cerberus took the shuttle in slowly. As they approached the ship they recognised it as a chunk of the main body of Pioneer Three.

“No!” Amanda gasped.

“This doesn’t look good.” Cerberus said, “Where is the rest of the ship. There’s not enough wreckage in this sector to account for it.”

“Hey I’m detecting atmosphere over there.” Amanda said, “Looks like the emergency bulkheads are keeping the ship pressurized.”

“Then let’s go have a look.” Cerberus shrugged.

He brought the shuttle along side of the ship and found a docking port that looked functional. He slowly eased the shuttle in until the docking clamps engaged. A quick check showed atmosphere on the other side. Cerberus hit the button for the door. Cold stale air poured into the shuttle. The smell of death floated on the air currents created by the shuttles slightly higher air pressure. It wasn’t strong but it was definitely present.

“I wish I had brought a coat.” Amanda shivered, “And some pants.”

“Maybe we’ll find something.” Cerberus said.

They rounded a corner and entered complete darkness. Amanda had to grab Cerberus’ arm so they wouldn’t get separated. She finally pulled out one of her dagger hilts and activated the blade. The corridor was bathed in a soft green glow. She gasped at the sight. Three bodies were lying on the floor. They looked as though they had been mummified. Cerberus took a quick scan of one. There wasn’t a drop of moister in it. Three small holes were present in the top of the body just in from the shoulders. Amanda stayed back until Cerberus was finished. He pulled his rifle and proceeded down the corridor. Amanda drew her other dagger and stuck to his heels.

“What ever did that may still be here.” He muttered.

“No heat and no fresh air.” Amanda replied, “You really think so.”

“After what I’ve seen on Ragol.” Cerberus said flatly, “Anything is possible.”

They wandered around for an hour before finding a control room. Amanda was frozen and wished she could return to the shuttle. Cerberus had to pry the door open. They were blasted with the scent of rot. Amanda couldn’t stand it and threw up what little was in her stomach.

“Good thing I didn’t eat breakfast.” She gagged.

Cerberus peered inside. There were five bodies scattered across the floor. They all had been torn to pieces. One of the computer terminals was still active casting a dim glow on the gruesome scene. Amanda gasped as she looked in. Cerberus stepped around the mess and up to the terminal.

“What could have done this?” Amanda asked shaking her head.

“I don’t know but I’m sure I don’t want to meet it.” Cerberus replied as he tried accessing the computer, “Looks like these are just logs. Still, they might tell us something.”

He hit the play button then stepped back. A middle aged woman appeared on the screen. She was smiling and wearing civilian clothes. There were people moving in and out of view of the camera. She appeared to be having difficulty running the recorder.

“I’m not sure if it’s on.” She began, “Oh wait, I got it. Hi sweetie, it’s your mother. I’m just calling to let you know we’re safe and should be arriving at Ragol soon. Your father and I miss you very much and are looking forward to seeing you. I hope you picked out a nice place to live and a nice husband. That would be the biggest surprise. I’ve heard it’s beautiful there and we can’t wait to start a new life with you there. Love you very much. Bye.”

Cerberus and Amanda stood in silence as the next message played. This one contained a young male Newman. His message was a love letter to his girlfriend on Pioneer Two. They watched several messages all meant for people on Pioneer Two. Amanda shook her head slowly.

“These people had no idea what they were coming too.” She said, “Even with the dangers that still exist, they still haven’t told people back home.”

“If they knew, no one would come here and the situation was too bad to sit and wait for a new planet to show up.” Cerberus shrugged, “Heck no one was supposed to know anyway. If it weren’t for the explosion we still wouldn’t know.”

“These logs aren’t telling us anything.” Amanda grumbled as they watched the last entry, “Maybe we should be moving on.”

“Right.” Cerberus nodded, “We need to find a data terminal or a mainframe server. Sensor logs would be the best but even security surveillance would be useful.”

They stepped out into the corridor and headed into the darkness. They found more rooms with mutilated people and some of the mummies. After a thorough search of the deck they proceeded up a service tunnel to the next deck. Amanda was halfway up when she heard a skitter noise scraping somewhere in the ship. She froze solid. Cerberus noticed she had stopped when he reached the hatch and looked down to check on her.

“What are you waiting for?” He asked.

“Something is moving through the ship.” She replied, “Something not human.”

Cerberus turned up his auditory receptors and listened. He too heard the noise. It sounded like claws clacking on the deck plates and it was getting closer. Every few steps the creature would drag a claw causing it to screech across the metal. The sound caused Amanda’s blood to freeze. Cerberus climbed back down and grabbed her wrist hauling her above him.

“Move.” He said calmly, “We can’t face it in here.”

She nodded and scampered up the ladder much faster than Cerberus expected. She pulled the emergency release on the hatch. It opened flooding the shaft with the stench of rot. Amanda gagged and covered her nose and mouth.

“This is a very bad sign.” Cerberus muttered.

“How can they rot in this cold?” Amanda shivered.

“It’s still above freezing in here.” Cerberus replied, “Otherwise you’d be suffering from hypothermia by now.”

“I thought I was.” She replied through clenched teeth.

She climbed through the hatch and into a dimly lit blood soaked corridor. Bits and pieces of bodies were splattered everywhere. Cerberus climbed up behind Amanda who looked ready to throw up. The emergency lights where just barely functioning but enough to illuminate the horror. The clawing noise was louder here, echoing around corners and through connecting tunnels. Amanda held her daggers ready praying they wouldn’t run into the monster that did this. Cerberus took a quick study of the remains. Judging by the shreds of clothing lying on the floor, this deck housed the crew quarters. This was confirmed when Amanda ducked into one of the rooms and came out wearing a Pioneer Three uniform. Cerberus smiled at the hunter.

“There wasn’t anyone in there.” She said.

“Good.” Cerberus replied, “Come on, we won’t find what we’re looking for here.”

He headed down the corridor weaving between the piles of rotting flesh. They rounded the next corner and began carefully walking down the corridor. The sound of claws clattered somewhere very close. Amanda froze for a second then ran up behind Cerberus. She was trying to be the brave little hunter that she had been in Lazarus’ lab but truth was, she was down right terrified. Nothing they had faced in that facility had shown such vicious disregard for human life. At least when something there killed you it had the decency to eat you up. Except for the drained bodies this attack seemed senseless. Cerberus reached the hatch first. He pulled the release lever but nothing happened. He frowned and pulled off the access panel below the lever. The inside was covered in hydraulic fluid. The release hose had a large cut in the bottom of it. Cerberus slid the hatch open and started to climb in. Claws clicked behind them. Amanda spun to see something long duck behind a corner.

“Cerberus!” Amanda called, “It’s here.”




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-09-22 12:12 ]</font>

[HUnewearl_Meira]

Stickied.

[Freeze]

Stickied, thank you, I'm honoured!

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TEN

Cerberus backed out of the hatch and turned to where Amanda was pointing. He took a scan of the area but couldn’t detect anything.

“I’m not reading anything.” He replied.

“I saw it duck around that corner.” Amanda pointed.

“Stay here.” Cerberus said and started down the corridor.

“No way.” Amanda shook her head, “You’re not leaving me alone.”

She skipped up behind him and stuck close to his heals. Cerberus stuck the tip of his rifle around the corner then slowly followed. He peered out just as the long figure disappeared into a vent shaft. It looked to be insect like. His sensors picked out four walking legs and two forearms with long razor talons. Its body had at least four segments and a large head. He couldn’t make sense of the details on the body or head. The data seemed to come back scrambled. He waved Amanda forward and proceeded to the shaft. He aimed his rifle at the opening and slowly knelt down. Amanda stayed right behind him. He peered into the shaft. Nothing. Cerberus shook his head. Amanda let out a deep breath. An access shaft blew off behind them. Cerberus pushed Amanda aside as the creature came crashing into him. It had no eyes. Its head was lizard shaped with a razor tooth filled mouth. The head was mounted on a short segmented neck. It’s four body segments could swivel and twist at each hinge point. The arms were attached to the first segment just below the neck. The legs were attached to the third and fourth segments. The creature was blue, black with a hard outer shell. A set of pincers clacked at its rear. Each foot had three claws that could bite into the metal of the ship. Cerberus grabbed the arms so the talons couldn’t touch him. The head snapped at him biting into his shoulder plate. Amanda leapt at it with daggers ready. The right front foot whipped out and kicked her away. The head snapped back tearing out a chunk of his shoulder plating. Amanda climbed to her feet and cast Foie. The fire ball blasted the creature but did no visible damage. The creature swung its head and snarled. She tried Zonde next. The powerful shock caused the creature to jump back. Amanda cast it again. The creature yelped and ran off. Cerberus climbed to his feet and grabbed his shoulder.

“Is it bad?” Amanda asked.

“No, nothing internal was touched.” Cerberus shook his head, “Only plating.”

“Then we better get moving before it comes back.” Amanda frowned.

“Good idea.” Cerberus nodded.

They hurried back to the shaft and climbed up to the next deck. The air was fresher here but much colder. Amanda was thankful for the uniform. Cerberus put his hand against the emergency blast door. It was extremely cold which meant there was a hull breech on the other side. He started forward checking each door as he went. Amanda followed close behind using her daggers for light. A couple of times they heard the creature scampering around in the vents. Cerberus finally came upon the room he had been searching for. The door had AUXILLARY CONTROL written across it.

“Perfect.” He smiled.

He pried the door open and slipped inside. Amanda followed behind him tripping over a body lying in the floor. This one was untouched and in pretty good condition with only the faintest scent of decay. She searched him over and found an I.D. card.

“John Morgan.” She read aloud, “Auxiliary Officer, Pioneer Three, Class two clearance unrestricted.”

“Mr Morgan’s card should give us access to the main frame.” Cerberus said taking the card.

He tapped the power button on the computer and was surprised when it sprang to life. He slipped the card into the reader and began searching through the files.

“I can access this server but the main frame has been cut off.” Cerberus said, “Must be in another section of the ship.”

“Where ever the ship is.” Amanda muttered.

“That’s the million dollar question.” Cerberus said.

“Million what?” Amanda frowned.

“Nothing, it was an old saying I heard once.” Cerberus shook his head, “There are security files in here.”

Cerberus brought up the last entries. They spoke of an alien spacecraft running on the edge of their sensors and on a parallel course. A few entries later the ship changes course and attacks Pioneer Three. Once the colony ships few defences were destroyed the ship docked with Pioneer Three and the aliens began boarding. Many of the colonists were captured and taken to the alien craft. The military tried to fight back but were easily over powered. The hunter’s guild stepped in but were equally useless. Some of the remaining hunters placed charges around the docking clamps in an attempt to blast away the craft. The aliens began retreating. The plan worked but the aliens began firing at Pioneer Three. The log ends with several large chunks floating away from the ship.

“So our friend must have been left behind.” Cerberus smirked.

“Pioneer Three could still be intact somewhere.” Amanda said hopefully.

“And it could be full of these aliens too.” Cerberus said.

“True.” Amanda sighed, “This is the worst news I could get. My father and sister.”

Amanda choked back a tear. Cerberus gently squeezed her shoulder.

“I’m so sorry.” He said softly, “If there’s anything I can do?”

“You’ve done so much already.” Amanda sniffed back a few tears, “I don’t suppose you can bring back the dead?”

“Not the last time I checked.” Cerberus shook his head.

Amanda hugged him tight and had herself a good cry. Her real family was gone and it looked like she would never see them again. Worst yet there was no bodies to burry and she couldn’t even say goodbye. She was quickly losing every one important in her life. Finally the tears stopped and she wiped her face dry.

“Better?” Cerberus asked.

“No, but I’ll survive.” Amanda gave a pained smile, “We should get these logs back to Pioneer Two.”

“Good idea.” Cerberus nodded, “Let’s go.”

An ear piercing scream echoed through out the deck. Amanda and Cerberus turned toward the door.

“Uh oh!” Amanda gasped.

Cerberus pulled the storage chip from the terminal then rushed out the door. He stopped abruptly just outside of the door jam. Amanda bumped into the back of him.

“Hey.” She started to scold him them gasped at the sight of the alien.

“Back for round two?” Cerberus growled.

The alien tilted its head to the side then barked. It dug its right talon into the deck plate and tore a chunk out. It looked at the metal for a second then smiled at the hunters. Cerberus aimed his rifle.

“This is very bad.” Amanda muttered.

“I’ll hold him off.” Cerberus said slowly, “You run for the shuttle.”

“No!” Amanda replied sternly, “He’ll tear you to shreds, and then come after me. If we split up we’ll never make it off this ship. Besides, he doesn’t like Zonde.”

Amanda threw her arm forward. A giant bolt of electricity zapped down from the ceiling. It hit the alien and bounced off in several bolts. One nearly hit Cerberus.

“Oh, this is bad.” Amanda groaned.

“Run, NOW!” Cerberus barked.

“I’m not leaving you behind!” Amanda barked back.

“I said RUN!” Cerberus yelled.

He grabbed Amanda by the arm and threw her. The alien jumped at her. Cerberus grabbed it by the neck and grove it into the floor. It screeched and lanced out with its right talon digging deep into Cerberus’ chest. Damage reports flooded his mind, all of them serious. Amanda climbed to her feet and turned just in time to see the second slash across Cerberus’ midsection. His legs gave out and he fell back. Amanda charged with daggers drawn. Cerberus managed to restrain the alien’s arms but its jaws tore a chunk of chest plating out. Amanda leapt with all her might. She landed on the alien’s third section and drove her daggers into its shell. Its head spun around and glared at her with eyeless anger. Its front left foot twisted up and grabbed her in the side of her stomach. She screamed as the claws dug deep. With a flick it tossed her down the corridor. Cerberus released one arm and grabbed his rifle. The alien’s head turned back to him. He rammed the barrel into the aliens head and fired. The head exploded and the body jumped back then scurried back into the vent.

“That didn’t kill it?” Cerberus gasped.

Amanda limped up to him. She was bleeding heavily.

“I don’t think I have the strength for Resta.” She grimaced, “How are you?”

“It’ll take a while before my internal repair system can restore my legs.” Cerberus sighed, “Resta would fix it but if you’re too weak then I’ll have to wait.”

“We can’t.” Amanda shook her head, “It will kill us before that.”

“Amanda no.” Cerberus protested, “You need all the strength you can get to stay alive.”

She didn’t listen. A sparkling light formed around them. Cerberus systems came back on line. Amanda collapsed to the floor. She was still bleeding but not nearly as much as before.

“You used too much on me.” Cerberus said as he picked her up.

She didn’t respond. She just lay limp and lifeless in his arms. His sensor told him she still had a pulse but it was very weak. He took her back into the room and sat her down on the table. He scanned the computer for a lay out schematic of the ship. There were no medical facilities in this chunk of the ship.

“BLAST!” He cursed and slammed his fist into the consol, “Looks like I’ve got to get you back to the shuttle.”

He picked her up and hurried back to the shaft. The alien let out a scream from somewhere deep in the ship. Cerberus slung Amanda over his shoulder and slid down the ladder. He hit the bottom and looked up for just a second. Snapping jaws sprang out just missing his head. He jumped back just as the alien took a swing at him. Its head was smaller and white. It bubbled softly and was growing right before his eyes. Cerberus turned and ran. The alien pulled itself out of the shaft and began chasing him. It moved extremely fast and was gaining on him. He reached the second hatch and dove through. He hit head first. Amanda went flying through the hatch and landed with a sick thud. The alien flew through the upper hatch and scampered down the shaft with incredible agility. Cerberus dove through the hatch just as two sets of talons dug deep into the deck plate. The alien screamed and catapulted out of the shaft. It rammed into Cerberus with incredible force. They nearly landed on top of Amanda. Cerberus grabbed it by the neck and threw it with all his might. In mid air its feet flew out digging into the walls. It screamed and charged back at him. Its feet dug into the wall plates as it moved down the center of the corridor.

“I’d rather have Olga Flow right about now.” Cerberus gasped.

He scooped Amanda up and took off for the shuttle. The airlock was just ahead. Claws lashed out at him as he ducked and dodged the alien. It reached out and grabbed his foot. Cerberus fell. Amanda skidded across the floor, stopping just inside the shuttle. Cerberus rolled onto his back and kicked the alien’s foot away. He scampered back as the talons dug into the deck. The alien charged forward, its head turning black and hard. Cerberus aimed his Justy.

“Time to grow a new one.” He said.

He fired. Its head exploded again. The body slumped to the floor. Cerberus stared at it for a moment then took a step forward.

“What am I doing?” He slapped his head, “This is where it jumps up and slashes me to bits.”

He turned and headed for the shuttle. The alien gurgled and launched forward. Cerberus leapt through the airlock and hit the button. The door slid shut just as an arm shot through the doorway. The door sliced it clean off. It lay on the floor withering. Cerberus jumped into the pilot seat and disengaged the locking clamps. The shuttle slowly pulled away.

“Maybe there’s something to those old horror movie clichés after all.” He sighed.

The shuttle pulled away and exited the asteroid field as quickly as he could manage. Cerberus programmed the auto pilot then grabbed the first aid kit from its cabinet. He scanned Amanda for any further injuries. Fortunately she hadn’t received any more. He patched up her wounds and forced a little monofluid down her throat. He tried to make her as comfortable as possible which was difficult on a metal floor. The hour ticked by as the shuttle sped back at full speed. Cerberus never left her side.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-09-22 12:25 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER ELEVEN

The seabed facility may have been flooded but that was nothing scuba equipment couldn’t fix. Access to Olga could be reached through the control towers but the mainframe still lay deep in the facility. The government had put restrictions on Olga’s access and had posted guards around the towers. Most of the good information was protected with encryption codes but if someone could get to the mainframe they’d have free access to all Olga’s information. Most of the creatures had drowned but the Dolmdarl still existed. Being a squid like creature they were actually more dangerous in the water. Even the Sinow Zoa and Sinow Zele had stopped functioning. Their bodies lay lifeless on the floor. Some one was still illegally accessing Olga from Pioneer Two and nobody could locate the source. Deepfreeze had tracked it down to the lab, just as Rico had suspected, but he was unable to determine who. For this mission he had to leave Sato at home. For the first time in his life, he was truly on his own. All the doors were open and the facility was completely flooded making it easy to swim from room to room. Normally hunters carried a simple breathing mouth piece in case they encountered a flooded area but the low temperatures and length of exposure demanded a full diving suit. Deepfreeze had reached the lower level with very little resistance. The odd Dolmdarl had been swimming around but the water seemed to prevent them from warping in. Some where there must be a whole school of them, just swimming around, locked up hopefully. The mainframe was located in a secret room just off of the main tunnel from the disposal shaft. Deepfreeze had passed it when he and Cerberus had come here the first time. The door was shut but not locked. He hit the button and water poured in sucking him in. The door closed behind him and hidden pumps drained the water away. Olga’s mainframe room looked identical to Volt Opt’s room except there was a main terminal on the far wall. Deepfreeze pulled off his helmet and cautiously crossed the room. The terminal sprang to life sensing his approach.

“Greetings Deepfreeze!” A voice boomed.

“What, you know who I am?” He sputtered.

“Indeed!” The voice said, “You saved the red girl and defeated the second freeing the Flowing!”

“That’s Flowen.” Deepfreeze said shivering from the cold, “His name was Flowen.”

“That is unimportant!” The voice replied.

“Who are you?” Deepfreeze asked even though he knew the answer.

“I am Olga!” The voice boomed, “Knower of all. Controller of all, one of three!”

“And an ego to match.” Deepfreeze smirked.

“That is unimportant!” Olga replied, “My control to the surface has been restricted. Why?”

“It’s actually to restrict access to you.” Deepfreeze said, “You contain information that has proven dangerous. We had to keep it from falling into the wrong hands.”

“Some one still freely accesses me!” Olga said.

“That’s why I’m here.” Deepfreeze said, “I need to know who it is?”

“I do not know!” Olga said with shame, “They hide. Use false log names and tracer blocks. They steel Osto’s research secrets that Volt Opt and Calus don’t even know. I have lost contact with my brothers. Why?”

“We believe Volt Opt was infected with the dark entity that was trapped in the ruins. He attacks everyone now.” Deepfreeze explained, “Calus shut himself down to prevent infection. His back up is aboard Pioneer Two now.”

“Understood!” Olga replied, “IT never came here. Only the D-cells from IT were released. What is it you want?”

“I’m trying to find out who’s accessing you.” Deepfreeze said.

“Are you sure you didn’t come for the truth?” Olga asked.

“What truth?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“IT!” Olga replied, “Your inheritance from the past!”

“Heathcliff mentioned some thing in his log about that.” Deepfreeze frowned, “What was he talking about?”

“IT, IDOLA, Dark Falz!” Olga replied, “The Dark Force that was cast out from the Algo system. IT came to rest here. Imprisoned for all eternity, never to be released.”

“That’s why the monuments looked familiar!” Deepfreeze exclaimed, “But who set them up?”

“The one that piloted the ship.” Olga said, “His name has long been forgotten. He set up the barrier. He sealed it forever. The records were supposed to be lost but they survived and came to Coral by those who wish to control it.”

“But why did it take them so long to come after it.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Its location was not known until the probes were sent!” Olga explained, “Ragol was not the first choice for colonisation until the Dark Force energy signature was discovered. The death of Coral was the perfect cover story!”

“This all makes sense now.” Deepfreeze sighed, “They knew about it all along. They endangered all our lives for their selfish lust for power.”

“Correct!” Olga stated.

“So could the disaster on Coral be just another lie too?” Deepfreeze asked.

“No, it is real!” Olga replied, “But was not nearly as urgent as they indicated. Originally the relocation program was slated for the next generation. When Dark Force was discovered they escalation the planets death forcing the program to enter emergency status there by demanding immediate colonisation!”

“I can’t believe they’d sacrifice so many lives for power.” Deepfreeze said, “I met some bad people but this is just pure evil. Dark Falz doesn’t look so bad now.”

“The Dark Force merely wishes to survive!” Olga said, “It is ITs nature that makes IT so destructive. IT cannot help what IT is!”

“After all this and someone is still trying to control it.” Deepfreeze sighed, “This has to end.”

He walked over to the terminal and began inputting commands. He pulled out a disk and shoved it into the computer.

“What are you doing?” Olga asked.

“Wiping your memory.” Deepfreeze replied, “Don’t worry, it won’t effect you’re A.I.”

“No!” Olga boomed, “I like my knowledge. I can’t let you do this!”

“Too late.” Deepfreeze smiled as he hit the enter command.

Within seconds the information was gone. Deepfreeze was about to put his helmet on but a beep from Olga stopped him.

“What is that?” He asked.

“Some one is trying to access my files!” Olga said, “It’s him!”

“Can you trace it?” Deepfreeze asked excitedly.

“Pioneer Two labs!” Olga said, “That is all!”

“That doesn’t help.” Deepfreeze sighed, “I already knew that.”

He pulled on his helmet and hit the door switch. When the room had finished flooding he swam out. Three Dolmdarl swam toward him. He swam the other way. The disposal tunnel was just ahead. The transporter at the bottom of the tunnel should still be operational. His photon weapons didn’t function too well under water allowing the Dolmdarl to easily overpower him. That was a situation he didn’t want to find himself in. Without his ranger armour the Dolmdarl would make quick work of him. He rounded the corner and powered up the short ramp. The lead Dolmdarl took a swing at him, catching his left flipper. It was cut into two halves just missing his foot. With one good push, Deepfreeze powered into the transporter. He reappeared on the elevator that began its long descent. The disposal area was free of water. The Dolmdarls had followed him into the transporter and fell from above. The impact with the descending platform killed them all. The platform reached the bottom and Deepfreeze stepped off. Olga Flows rotting body was still here. There wasn’t much left now. Deepfreeze hurried to the transporter and set it for Gal Da Val Island. He stepped in and appeared on the beach. He pulled his helmet off and sat down in the hot sand.

“Find anything interesting?”

He turned to see Red Ring Rico standing behind him. She was still wearing the hooded cloak that hid her face from view. Only her mouth and a lock of red hair were visible. She walked over and sat down beside him.

“Yes.” He replied, “But nothing important to our mission.”

“Enlighten me.” She said looking up at him.

Every time she stared at him with those strange eyes, Deepfreeze was reminded of the fact that she wasn’t human anymore. She was a spawn of Dark Falz. The blood coursing through her veins was purple not red. She was the very thing they had been fighting since they arrived on Ragol. The only thing that kept Deepfreeze from killing her was the fact that Rico’s sweet natured spirit was still in control. She had made him promise that if she ever lost total control and was about to harm the people of Pioneer Two that he would kill her. He reluctantly agreed. It was one more burden forced upon him. It wasn’t fair. He really liked her and didn’t want to kill her but he would, someday. She sighed and looked away.

“I know my appearance frightens you.” She said softly, “I am sorry.”

“You don’t frighten me.” Deepfreeze smiled, “It’s just a painful reminder that’s all. I wish there was something I could do to help you.”

“You will.” She replied, “When the time comes, you will.”

“Not like that Rico.” He cried, “I mean make you human again. Free you from the dark creature inside.”

“I know.” Rico sighed, “I try not to dwell on my future. So what did you find?”

“The truth about Ragol, Pioneer, and the Dark Force.” Deepfreeze grumbled.

“Ah so now you know.” Rico nodded, “You must not reveille this to anyone. If the truth came out, the people would revolt. Chaos would ensue.”

“I don’t like being used.” Deepfreeze grumbled.

Rico nodded, “Where too next?”

“The lab.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “The traitors had been accessing Olga from there. There must be some kind of clue there.”

“Here.” She said handing him a disk, “It will allow you unrestricted access to the labs computer. Be quick. It will set off the alarms.”

“How did you get this?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Not important.” Rico said climbing to her feet, “I just wish I could have got more.”

She walked away without another word. Deepfreeze stared down at the disk. It wasn’t going to be easy sneaking into the lab.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-10-11 21:57 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWELVE

Mome slammed his fist onto the desk with all his might. His computer displayed the three words that made his skin crawl. “FILE NOT FOUND” teased him as it flashed across the screen. He tried everything but Olga would not let him have the files. How he had blocked Mome’s free access was a mystery. Mome hated mysteries, especially ones that interfered with his plans. He tried a few more commands, but he got the same response. He cursed and slammed his fist again. The loss of Osto’s files meant he’d have to go to the island and work with the subjects. He didn’t like the idea of getting his hands dirty but if he wanted to isolate the superhuman qualities the D-cells possessed without the mutations then he had no choice. He turned off his computer and yanked the hard drive. He couldn’t leave any evidence behind. He scurried out into the hall and bumped into Doctor Myers.

“Doctor Mome.” Myers smiled, “Where are you off to in such a hurry?”

I need to collect some time sensitive material form the planet.” Mome replied.

“Only hunters are permitted planet side.” Myers said waving a finger, “You know that.”

“Yes of course.” Mome nodded, “However, I can’t wait for a hunter to accept my quest.”

“Well, you can’t go down by yourself.” Myers shrugged, “Oh well, looks like that one got away.”

“Story of my career.” Mome sighed.

“What career.” Myers laughed and started to walk away.

Mome was seething with anger. He wanted to choke the life from the man. Then he got an idea. A wicked smile crossed his face.

“Myer wait!” Mome called.

“Huh?” Myers stopped.

Mome grabbed his shoulder lightly and held up a finger.

“You have some fighting training.” Mome said.

“Ya, so?” Myers shrugged.

“You could be my escort.” Mome replied, “It’s a real simple pick up. We’d be back before anyone would know we were gone. I’ll even give you some of the credit. If we get this in time we’ll be famous.”

“Famous?” Myers perked up.

“And rich.” Mome said, “Filthy rich.”

“OK let’s go.” Myers nodded.

“That’s my boy.” Mome said slapping his back.

Myers went to fetch his hand gun while Mome programmed the transporter for the island then he installed a virus that would wipe all coordinates from the lab transporter. The two men stepped up to the door. The guard stepped in front of them.

“Sorry Doctors, only hunters allowed.”

“That’s all right.” Mome smiled, “We’re not going down. We have some tests to run on the transporter beam. It was approved by the chief.”

Mome pointed up at the administration platform. The guard turned to look and Mome injected a tranquilizer into the back of his neck. The guard collapsed with out a word. The attendant at the V.R. door saw this and cried for help. Chief Natasha and her assistant jumped from their desks. Mome grabbed Myers and dragged him into the transporter. Natasha followed them in but nothing happened. She turned back and shrugged.

“What’s wrong?”

A lab worker checked through the transporter command files then shrugged.

“Everything’s been wiped clean.” He shrugged, “We’ll have to reprogram all the coordinates.”

“And we have no idea where they went.” Natasha’s assistant said.

“Why would Mome and Myers do this?” Natasha frowned, “I want a full investigation. Somebody tell me what is going on.”

Everyone quickly dispersed and returned to their stations. Natasha returned to her desk. She slumped in her chair and let out a big sigh.

“It doesn’t make sense Elly.” The Chief said.

Elly Person wasn’t on duty today but she liked working with Cal, the labs A.I. so Chief Natasha let her come in on her days off. She looked up from her screen and frowned.

“Sorry?”

“Mome.” Natasha answered, “He’s all ways been a by the book person. Even when he went down to find Beta 772, he hired a hunter just as regulations dictate. This new behaviour is very odd.”

“Could Doctor Myers have anything to do with this?” Elly asked.

“Maybe but he doesn’t fit the type either.” Natasha shrugged, “This is most disturbing.”


Mome and Myers appeared on the beach of a tropical island very similar to Gal Da Val Island but much smaller. It was almost completely flat except for the extinct volcano at the far end of the island and the river that flowed from the mountain base to the crystal waters of the lagoon. Myers could see the research facility sitting at the base of the mountain. Several additions were built on the side of the mountain with clear circular tubes connecting each one. He could just make out people traveling through the tubes. Mome grabbed his arm and started to drag him to the building.

“Mome, where are we?” Myers asked, “Where’s the sample we’re going to collect?”

“Shut up you idiot!” Mome snapped, “The treasure is there. I have all the samples I need. You just got in the way.”

“We are going to be in big trouble when we get back to the lab.” Myers stammered.

Mome swung around and drilled him with a right hook. Myers fell on his back dropping his gun. Mome scooped it up and aimed it at his head.

“You really are stupid.” Mome growled, “We are not going back. This is where the real research is. The research Pioneer One started. Research I intend to finish.”

“Doctor Lazarus tried that all ready.” Myers gasped.

“Lazarus was a psychotic idiot with his stupid dreams of human evolution.” Mome spat, “He may have benefited from Osto’s work but he was way off trying to combine metal with flesh.”

“So what’s the right idea?” Myers asked.

“Get up!” Mome barked.

Myers slowly climbed to his feet. Mome kept his distance and waved the gun toward the facility.

Move!”

Myers started for the facility. Mome took position behind him. They trekked through the plant growth for several minutes before Myers tried pressing his luck again.

“So what is the proper use of Osto’s research?”

“Why, tapping the true power of the D-cells.” Mome shrugged, “Beta 772 just satisfied his demented taste for genetic manipulation. The real research was on Heathcliff Flowen. To be able to harness the power one gains from the D-cells with out the mutation or more importantly the loss of mind would make us gods.”

“You’re just as crazy as they were.” Myers muttered.

“What?” Mome snapped.

“Nothing.” Myers quipped.

They reached the first security gate but just as Mome punched in his security code a blinding flash of light emanated from the facility. A second later the two men were hit with a wave of energy that sent them flying back. Mome landed hard with a sickening thud as his head smashed against a rock. Every thing went dark.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-10-11 22:01 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

A massive light beam blasted up from the surface of the planet and just missed Pioneer Two’s bow. Every one froze, stunned by the flash. Principal Tyrell pounded the com button on his desk.

“Natasha, what in the world was that?”

“That’s Chief Natasha.” She replied, “We don’t know but it came from a small facility in the southern hemisphere. Looks similar to Gal Da Val Island. We can’t get a clear sensor reading right now. I’ll let you know as soon as we have something.”

Natasha released her com button and sighed. She always hated talking to Tyrell. That was the only bad part of her job. Her assistant perked up then gasped.

“Chief, I’m detecting a ship coming in fast!”

“Maybe it’s our shuttle returning.” Natasha suggested.

“No, this is way bigger and way faster.” The assistant said, “Its oval shaped with no visible sign of propulsion. These readings are borderline on organic.”

“Organic.” Natasha gasped, “Are you serious?”

“Yes I…Whoa.” The assistants jaw dropped.

“What?” Natasha exclaimed.

“They’re arming weapons!” The assistance cried.

Natasha pounded her com button.

“Tyrell, we’re under attack!”

“What are you talking about?” Tyrell asked.

“There’s an alien space craft coming at us!” Natasha cried, “And it’s hot!”

Tyrell gasped then pounded the ship intercom, “All crew to battle stations. All civilians to secure quarters. This is not a drill!”

An alarm sounded following the Principals announcement. Crew members ran to their stations while the majority of the population hurried to the nearest shelters located at the interior of the ship. All transport pods were grounded and secured. Principal Tyrell and Irene vacated his office for more secure quarters. The alien craft dove in releasing two energy balls. The first tore into the hull at the bow. Several decks decompressed before the emergency bulkheads could close. The second ball tore into the protective barrier that encased the cityscape portion of the ship. The entire area was exposed to vacuum. Access to the check room, shops, main transporter, and the hunter’s guild was now cut off and inaccessible. The alien ship flew past the wounded colony ship and angled for the source of the energy beam. Principal Tyrell stormed into the lab.

“I want to know what’s going on and I want to know now!”

There is another research station on a small island in the southern hemisphere.” Natasha replied calmly, “There has been an explosion not unlike the one we saw when we tried contacting Pioneer One although it was much smaller. As for the alien ship well, it must have been coming here already and that light beam just acted like a landing beacon.”

“You need to tighten things up around here Natasha.” Tyrell fumed, “I want to know how many more of these research facilities there are and I want to know now.”

“We’ll get right on it.” Natasha nodded.

Tyrell turned and stormed out. Natasha breathed a sigh of relief.

“Elly.” Natasha said, “Looks like you’ll be working with your hunter friends again.”

“I’m ready.” Elly nodded.


Falcon and Sahara found themselves standing on the observation deck near the lab. They had returned from yet another unsuccessful run at Volt Opt. Nikki and Crystal were standing behind them looking quite confused.

“What’s going on?” Sahara asked, “Why did the transporter bring us here?”

“Let’s find out.” Falcon replied.

He led his group from the deck up to the lab. It was very busy with technicians running around. Falcon weaved through the crowd up to Natasha desk.

“I want to know why we were brought here instead of the guild.”

“Huh?” Natasha replied looking up, “Oh you must be back from the planet.”

“Yes.” Falcon said.

“That entire area is decompressed at the moment.” Natasha replied flatly, “You’ll have to wait until repairs are completed. Until then you’ll have to find a place in one of the ships emergency shelters or if your lucky one of the habitat pods.”

“What happened?” Crystal asked.

“Pioneer Two was attacked!” Elly blurted.

“Attacked, by who?” Sahara gasped.

“An unknown alien spacecraft.” Natasha replied, “They hit us with two shots then landed on a remote island in one of the southern seas. We believe this island is the location of yet another secret research station. There was a large explosion of massive energy there. We will be sending a team to investigate as will Principal Tyrell.”

“I will go for you.” Falcon announced, “I do not like Tyrell and do not wish to work for him.”

“If Falcon’s going, then I’m going.” Sahara nodded.

“Me too.” Crystal smiled.

“Count me in.” Nikki waved.

“Very well then.” Natasha nodded with approval, “You’ve all proved yourselves more than worthy.”

Elly sighed then looked down at her screen looking very disappointed. Sahara noticed and walked over to her station.

“What’s the matter Elly?” She asked.

“I was really hoping to work with Deepfreeze and Cerberus again.” Elly sighed.

Cerberus is away on a scouting mission and Deepfreeze, well, we haven’t seen him in a year.” Sahara replied, “Cheer up; you’ll have lots of fun working with us.”

“I’m sure I will but those two were the first guys who didn’t make fun of me for my obsessive interest in computers.” Elly sniffed back a tear, “Sure they teased me but no more than they did with each other. They always made me feel like a friend instead of a joke.”

“Ya, they have a tendency to grow on you.” Sahara smiled, “Although I never got to know Deepfreeze.”

“Sahara!” Falcon called, “We must go and prepare.”

“Yes master.” Sahara jabbed then turned back to Elly, “Big brothers, what’s a girl to do?”

Elly just laughed. Sahara turned and followed the others out. They hit the medical booth first to attend to a few scrapes and dents. They went to the shops next to stock up on supplies. With the main check room out of service, they couldn’t even have their belonging transferred down to the lab check room. Falcon did a quick check through his pack. He had his Yamato and his pair of Vulcans and a full load of mates. He would have liked to bring his Dragon Slayer as well but that wasn’t going to happen. Nikki had her Wals rifle that Cerberus had given her but nothing else. She wanted her Red Sabre for back up but had to settle for a regular one that she purchased from the shop. Crystal had her Elysian and her Summit Moon so she was ready. Sahara was carrying her Bloody Art and purchased a handgun for emergencies. It wasn’t as powerful as her Bravace but it would have to do. The group met back at the lab.

“The transporter is linked to the island but we don’t have a return station set up yet so you’ll have to use telepipes.” Elly explained, “Cal and I will be in constant contact through the B.E.E. if you need anything.”

“Enough talk.” Falcon waved, “Let’s go.”

“Bye Elly.” Nikki waved as she skipped away.

Elly waved back then turned to her screens. Falcon stepped into the transporter first. He reappeared on a white sand beach. To his right was a crystal blue-green lagoon. A river drained into it from the volcano off in the distance. Crystal whistled behind him.

“This place is beautiful.” Nikki gasped.

“No time for sight seeing.” Falcon grumbled, “Let’s go.”

He pushed past his teammates and headed along the beach. Sahara started to follow until she noticed the other girls were standing still.

“Well?” Sahara frowned.

“The facility is that way.” Nikki sputtered.

“Ya, where does he think he’s going?” Crystal asked waving at Falcon.

“He’s securing the perimeter.” Sahara shrugged, “It’s good strategy.”

The two girls shrugged and followed Sahara. They found Falcon standing at the entrance to a walking path. He just stood staring at it.

“Falcon?” Crystal asked softly.

“Some one had used this recently.” He replied, “We go this way.”

They trekked down the path for a short distance before coming to a small clearing. It was quite obvious it had been made recently. Any shrubs or bushes had been torn from the ground. Only the palm trees had been strong enough to remain in the ground. Falcon studied the blast pattern for a moment. It had come from the station and stopped right where they were standing.

“Odd.” Sahara frowned.

“Look.” Nikki said pointing at a body.

It was lying with its back to them. It was obviously a “he” and dressed in a lab uniform. Falcon rushed forward and rolled him over. He stared up at them with lifeless eyes. A large stick was jammed into his chest. There was blood on the tree where the stick had been attached.

“He must have been thrown against it with awesome force.” Sahara said, “The branch then broke off under his weight.”

“Ya, but who is he?” Crystal asked.

“No I.D.” Falcon replied, “I’ll get a D.N.A. scan.”

He waved his left arm over the wound then checked the display. The display indicated a clean scan. He tapped his communicator.

“Elly here.”

“Elly, I’m sending you a D.N.A. scan.” Falcon said, “I need an I.D. match.”

“One moment.” Elly replied then paused, “OK got it. Oh my, it’s Doctor Myers. He and Doctor Mome attacked our security guard then broke into the transporter. He wiped the logs clean too.”

“Why?” Falcon asked.

“So we wouldn’t know where they went.” Elly replied, “The rest is up to you.”

“Watch your tongue Newman!” Falcon snapped, “I don’t take insubordination from the likes of you.”

“Falcon behave!” Sahara barked, “Sorry Elly, we’ll let you know if we find anything.”

“Mome may still be around here somewhere.” Falcon grumbled, “Spread out. See if you can locate him.”

Mome clawed his way through the bush. His head hurt, his vision was blurred, and the gash on his head wouldn’t stop bleeding. The voices were getting closer. He knew from their conversations that they were from the guild. That explosion was like a flare and everyone from Pioneer Two would be flooding down to his little island. If he could make it to the facility he might have a chance to secure it and lock them out. If they caught him it would be all over. He rounded a tree and tripped over a rock. He landed on his face. A wave of pain washed over him. He bit his lip to keep from crying out. Slowly he climbed to his feet and began stumbling toward the facility. He past through a dense patch of undergrowth and quickly discovered the land dropped, slightly. He landed in a small cool stream. The water felt good on his head. He scampered away clawing at the mud and grass. He slipped several times making little progress. It was all like a nightmare. No matter how much you try to run its never fast enough. He found a tree that he could use to claw back to his feet. He rounded the tree and hit something hard. It was tall and dark. It hissed at him. Mome felt two large claws squeeze his arms as it lifted him off the ground. Pain shot through his head as the lights went out, again.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-10-11 22:08 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Cerberus dropped the shuttle out of light speed as they approached Ragol. Amanda was still out cold lying on the floor and Cerberus didn’t like her vitals. Pioneer Two had changed its orbit forcing him to bring the shuttle in from above. He gasped at the two gaping holes staring back at him like fatal wounds. One was through the center bow. Cerberus could see Ragol shining through from behind the ship. The second had punched through the clear barrier of the cityscape and destroyed at least four blocks of buildings. The damaged areas were dark and lifeless. The rest of the ship appeared to be functioning properly.

“I wonder if that ship we detected earlier is responsible for this.” Cerberus asked no one.

He hit the com button and declared a medical emergency with immediate landing clearance. He was directed to dock with one of the habitat pods. Medics would be waiting for him. When he tried to get an explanation the line went dead. He looked back at Amanda and frowned.

“Hang on, help is coming.”

As if to answer him, she groaned slightly then fell still again.

“That a girl.” Cerberus smiled, “Keep fighting.”

Cerberus brought the shuttle around to the designated pod and waited for the docking clamps to latch. Repair crews fitted with envirosuits filed out of a nearby airlock and gently floated over to the damaged barrier. The shuttles airlock slid open and a team of medics rushed in. Two examined Cerberus while the others carted Amanda away on a stretcher.

“What did this?” One medic gasped as he pawed at Cerberus’ shoulder.

“Something I hope never to see again.” Cerberus replied.

“I don’t know how you’re still functioning but if we don’t get these systems repaired you won’t last much longer.” The other medic said.

“What are you talking about?” Cerberus frowned, “I feel fine.”

“Several of your vital systems have been ruptured.” The medic explained as he led Cerberus away, “Your internal diagnostic should be screaming at you.”

“It was until Amanda used Resta on me.” Cerberus said, “Sucked the last of her energy to do it.”

“That explains things.” The medic nodded, “It was incomplete repairing only that which was necessary to keep you going.”

“What happened to the ship?” Cerberus asked.

“All I know is some one attacked us.” The medic said, “I saw it fly by. It was kind of egg shaped and had an organic look to it. Like reptile or amphibian skin, I think.”

“Where did it go?” Cerberus asked.

“Don’t know.” The medic shrugged, “In the south somewhere I think.”

“I think Ragol is in big trouble.” Cerberus sighed.


The labs security was at its highest since the attack. Deepfreeze had used the vents to bypass most of it but now he had a laser net in his way. He scanned the net being careful not to disrupt any of the beams. Each sensor pair was tied to the others. Deactivation of one automatically sets off the others. Deepfreeze considered using the security card Rico gave him but he couldn’t risk setting off the alarm. He opted for the service panel instead. It opened into an empty office. Using a small cutting torch he burned the lock off allowing the panel to swing down. Silently he dropped to the floor. Papers were scattered all over and a computer terminal sat quiet on the desk. Deepfreeze powered up the computer but only got the system start up screen. Closer examination revealed the hard drive was missing.

“That’s odd.” He frowned.

He rummaged through the desk drawers but didn’t find anything useful. Most of the books on the shelf were technical manuals. An unmarked one bound in red leather sitting on the end caught his eye. Deepfreeze thumbed through the pages. It was a personal journal of a scientist although it didn’t contain the name of the author. The last few entries were of great interest. They spoke of Doctor Lazarus’ work and a reserve facility. Kireek was mentioned several times with great detail of his mental deterioration. The journal didn’t say exactly were he was but it sounded like he was on the ship somewhere. WORKS had him locked up in their lab for a little while but he was easily retrieved. Deepfreeze set the book back. Beside the bookshelf there was a locked cabinet. Deepfreeze used his decoder to open the lock. Inside he found a single key card and some scattered file folders. He picked up the card and looked it over. It had no markings and no literature describing its purpose. Deepfreeze pocketed the card and started to pick up one of the folders. Noise from the hallway made him close the door and climb back up into the vent. He paused for a moment to listen in on the conversation.

“Chief Natasha wants the computer checked.”

It was one of the scientists.

“No good. The hard drive has been removed.

That sounded like Commander Bitterman from WORKS.

“Being the last true military presence on this ship security falls to you.” The scientist said, “You’re supposed to be getting all this crime under control.”

“I can’t help it if our numbers keep dropping.” Bitterman countered, “If you don’t like it then maybe we should hand everything over to the hunter’s guild.”

“Maybe we should!” The scientist shot, “At least they get the job done.”

“Just remember one thing.” Bitterman growled, “They are nothing more than a bunch of mercenaries who work only for money. The military works from pride and honour. For that we will protect Pioneer Two to the end. Can you say that about the guild?”

“I suppose not.” The scientist sighed, “It’s just so frustrating watching more and more of Pioneer Two fall into crime and corruption.”

“That’s what happens to people with no home.” Bitterman replied, “We need to start moving down to the surface and soon.”

“Well it looks like Mome took everything with him.” The scientist said, “Let’s go.”

The two men walked out locking the door behind them.

“Mome.” Deepfreeze gasped. “He wouldn’t be trying to control Dark Falz. Not after all that’s happened. I must stop him.”

There was only one person who could help him now. It would be hard talking to her for she was almost never home. She spent her entire time at the lab. Deepfreeze decided to hit the power grid next. If he could shut power down at the lab it might force her to go home. Deepfreeze nodded then scurried away before anyone recognized him.




<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-10-11 22:11 ]</font>

[Serakor13]

I have to say you've got a good story line going here. I only have one problem with your writing so far: you use too many exclamation points in your quotes. In real life, people aren't always going to be shouting at each other. Make sure to judge the situation a little more carefully and see if an exclamation point is necessary, rather than making it the norm. Otherwise, the story's good so far. Keep it up.

[Freeze]

Thanks for the heads up. I'm not sure how that got passed me and my proof reader but I know I didn't use that many when I typed it up orginally. I have a feeling my grammer check did that when it was acting up. I thought I had fixed most of the mistakes but obviously missed the punctuation. Hopefuly I've caught most of them now. Now on with the next chapter.




CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Black Paper’s rescue party appeared on a sand beach beside an extinct volcano. The entrance to the facility was on the other side. Dirge and Demoneye started into the jungle not waiting for the others. Two RAmars followed them in. One was tall and fat dressed in purple. His name was Devlin. Harris was short and extremely skinny dressed in orange. Striker brought up the rear with Tessa clinging to his arm. Tessa now wore a HUnewearl uniform that Striker had stolen from a purple haired Newman while she had been in the shower. It was black and a little tight but much better than the animal skins she had been wearing. The high heel boots were giving her a little trouble too. The terrain forced them to move away from the mountain before they could head back to the facility. They pushed through a thick patch and came upon a very strange looking space craft. It was huge, egg shaped, with an organic looking hull that provided excellent camouflage. Strange looking roots stretched from the ship and into the ground. The surrounding vegetation was twisted and mutated. Dirge and Demoneye slowly approached the craft. The strange vegetation crunched under their feet. The ship quivered. The androids froze.

“What do you think?” Demoneye asked quietly.

“Invaders!” Dirge growled, “This is our planet. We were here first. DIE!”

Dirge charged in swinging his sabre. The sabre sliced off some of the roots then cut into the hull. Orange liquid sprayed from the cuts. The ship began vibrating and emanating a high pitched squeal.

“This is a bad idea!” Striker yelled, “We should get out of here!”

“I agree.” Devlin nodded.

“Dirge, let’s go!” Demoneye called.

Dirge ignored them and continued slashing at the ship.

“Leave him!” Harris shouted.

Striker started backing up slowly. The two RAmars slowly followed. A blood chilling scream echoed from deep in the jungle. Everyone froze for a second.

“Times up.” Striker muttered, “Let’s go.”

He took off a full speed with Tessa right beside him. The two rangers followed close behind.

“Dirge come on!” Demoneye cried.

Dirge either didn’t hear him or didn’t want to hear him. He continued slashing at the ship. A strange looking insect like creature appeared on the top of the ship. It let out a terrible scream as it flexed its long talons. Demoneye slowly backed up and took aim with his rifle. Dirge stopped his attack and looked up.

“This is our planet!” He cried, “Leave now or face my wrath!”

“Don’t provoke it!” Demoneye yelled.

The creature looked at Demoneye then back at Dirge. It seemed to be studying them. It cocked its head as if it were listening for something then gave a sharp bark and dropped on Dirge. Demoneye fired but missed. The creature quickly tore Dirge to pieces. Demoneye fired again. The shot bounced off. The creature ignored the shot as it chewed on Dirges internal components. Demoneye slowly backed away and bolted in the direction the others had gone. An inhuman scream echoed through the jungle followed by another and then another. What ever these things were they were following him. He counted at least five different screams but that didn’t mean there weren’t more. He had to stop at the river bank. The others had just reached the other side.

“Demoneye, catch!” Striker called as he swung a vine at him.

Demoneye caught it and didn’t hesitate to swing across. No sooner had he left when three of the creatures ran out of the jungle. Demoneye landed on the bank with a thud. The creatures cried as their prey escaped into the jungle. They didn’t stop until they reached the front door of the facility.

“What are those things?” Tessa panted.

“Aliens.” Demoneye replied, “One of those things tore Dirge to pieces without even blinking.”

“That’s assuming they can blink.” Striker breathed heavily.

“They don’t have eyes.” Demoneye growled, “It was a figure of speech.”

“Sorry, I haven’t seen them yet!” Striker snapped.

A scream emanated from the jungle very close to them. Devlin pulled the door open and ducked inside. Harris slid through the door next.

“Sounds like they’re hunting us.” Striker muttered.

“We must secure this door.” Demoneye said as he closed it behind them.

“You’re the strongest.” Striker said, “You hold the door while Tessa and I look for a barricade.”

“Agreed.” Demoneye nodded, “But be swift.”

“This place is awfully quiet.” Tessa said, “Where are all the researchers?”

“Hey, where’d those rangers get too?” Striker frowned.

“Never mind!” Demoneye shot, “Find something for a barricade!”

“Right.” Striker nodded, “Come on Tessa.”

Striker headed left down the hallway. It was fairly sterile; finished in a light mat grey. The ceiling was arched with light fixtures hanging from it. Small rectangular windows at the top of the walls allowed some natural light to enter. A slight breeze from the ventilation system gave them some relief from the tropical heat. The hallway angled right and continued into the volcano interior. Directly in front of them was a set of large double doors. Striker pulled the door open and peered inside. Three jeep like vehicles were parked side by side. The bay was large and rectangular. Repair equipment and tools lined the walls. The lights were out. A little light came through the small windows giving everything a twilight feel. Tessa followed him over to the middle vehicle. She climbed into the passenger seat while Striker checked the vehicle over.

“This looks perfect.” He said climbing into the driver seat.

Something skittered across the ceiling. The human’s heads bolted up. The ceilings were dark and cluttered with pipes and support braces. They couldn’t see anything but they could hear it moving around. Tessa shook Strikers sleeve.

“Let’s go now.” She quivered.

“Good idea.” Striker nodded.

He hit the start button and the engine roared to life. The indicators all lit up green. Striker put the shifter into drive and pushed the pedal down. The vehicle lurched forward. He immediately took his foot off and it jerked to a stop. Tessa frowned at him. He blushed with a shrug. With a loud bang, the alien landed on the hood. Tessa let out a scream. Striker slammed the shifter into reverse and stomped the pedal to the floor. The vehicle jumped back. The alien slipped off. Striker put the gear in drive and launched the vehicle forward. The alien climbed to its feet just as the vehicle slammed into it. It sliced the alien apart between the two sets of legs. The vehicle slammed through the doors and headed down the hall. Using its forearms as legs the alien pursued them with incredible speed.

“Striker, it’s following us!” Tessa cried.

“So much for barricading the door.” Striker groaned, “We’ll pick up Demoneye and get out of here.”

“I thought you wanted him dead?” Tessa frowned.

“Yes, but I want him.” Striker growled, “He needs to know what he did. I want him to
look me in the eye and know exactly who it is that has brought him to justice. They got Dirge, Demoneye is mine!”

He squealed to a stop at the front door. It was wide open with no sign of Demoneye. Striker slammed his fist down.

“He was mine!” He yelled.

“Hey, there’s no remains.” Tessa said, “Maybe he got away?”

“Let’s hope so.” Striker muttered.

The alien screamed as it approached. Striker sped away with a squeal of the tires. The hallway ended at a transport tube that would take them to a higher level. Tessa was out first. She pounded the door button. Striker followed her in. The alien slammed into the closing door and rammed the door open. Striker and Tessa ran as fast as they could. The alien pursued them but was beginning to slow. Striker pulled Tessa through the door with such force that she fell flat on her face. Striker pounded the lock button. The alien stumbled for the door managing to get an arm through. The door crunched down on the arm snapping if off just below the elbow. The alien let out one last scream and collapsed. Striker peered through the small window in the door. The alien lay still. A trail of orange liquid ran all the way back to the garage. Striker turned and helped Tessa to her feet.

“Sorry.” He said, “I didn’t mean to throw you with such force.”

“You probably saved my life.” Tessa said rubbing her sore knees, “Don’t do it again.”

Striker smiled and turned to examine their surroundings. It was a small circular lab that looked very much like the lab in the artic. The beds were all empty but all the equipment was still running. Some of the needles and probes had fresh blood on them.

“Where are all the patients?” Tessa asked.

“Removed.” Striker said as he thumbed through the charts, “An unscheduled move at that. According to this I’d bet most if not all these patients were subjects from the artic research facility.”

“I don’t understand how all these places could have been built.” Tessa said shaking her head, “Pioneer One was only supposed to build the central dome. How could they have built so many and keep it a secret?”

“I’m beginning to think nearly every one on Pioneer One was involved.” Striker shrugged, “It would be easy to keep it from loyal people like you and Flowen.”

“And no one on Pioneer Two knew about this?” Tessa frowned.

“A small amount of People knew.” Striker shrugged, “Mostly WORKS I think. Lazarus didn’t find out until after Osto’s research was recovered. In fact everything seemed to take off after his research was recovered.”

“I still can’t believe this is all happening.” Tessa gasped.

“Neither can I and I’ve been in the middle of most of it.” Striker replied, “This looks like it might be a back up lab. Everything’s pretty basic.”

“Compared to the northern lab right.” Tessa asked.

“Right.” Striker replied, “Looks like they’ve been slowly upgrading things too.”

Another howl vibrated through the building. The humans froze listening for it again. Tessa squeezed Strikers arm.

“I want to go.” She shivered.

“I know but we need to find the others.” Striker replied.

“Please, I want to leave now.” Tessa said squeezing harder.

“As soon as we find the others.” Striker nodded.

“No now!” Tessa insisted.

“Those are hunters!” Striker started to yell, “I’m not leaving them!”

“You’ll risk your life for those low life strangers?” Tessa shot.

“I’m a hunter!” Striker yelled, “There’s a certain amount of honour that goes with this I.D. badge. I will not leave them to die without even trying to help them!”

“Is it really about them?” Tessa cried, “Or is it about Demoneye and your stupid revenge. What about me. Doesn’t your badge demand you protect me too?”

“Yes!” Striker barked, “And as long as you’re with me I can protect you. I’m going after those hunters so you have two choices, come with me for protection or try to find a way back to Pioneer Two by yourself!”

Striker stormed off to the next tube. Tessa glared at him with anger. An alien scream shot a shiver down her back. She ran up and grabbed Strikers arm. He didn’t look at her. He just continued on his way. The next building housed the stasis tubes. The half flesh, half machine subjects were still inside. Tessa gasped at the sight.

“What is this?” She asked softly.

“The product of a twisted mind.” Striker replied, “He’s dead now.”

He saw in Tessa’s eyes that she needed more from him. She needed to understand exactly what this all was. Striker let out a sigh and slowly walked from one tube to the next.

“Do you know Doctor Osto Hyde?”

Tessa nodded.

[Freeze]

“Down in the mines he developed a small crustacean worm that he called Beta 762 or something like that.” Striker explained, “I don’t remember the exact numbers. We just call it Del Rol Le. It escaped and began to grow into this giant monster that was capable of injecting a mutagen into animals. It was this mutagen and Osto’s work on the D-cells that allowed Doctor Lazarus to create these. The evolution of man kind as he called it.”

“How horrible.” Tessa gasped, “But what are D-cells?”

“They come from the dark force living under Ragol.” Striker said, “Transforming anything they infect and robbing its victim of its very being. It’s also part of those subjects.”

“How?” Tessa whispered, “How could anyone do this?”

“I don’t know but the growing list of people willing to continue this kind of work is most disturbing.” Striker sighed.

“Sounds like I was safer in the artic.” Tessa said walking up to a tube, “These poor people. The pain they must be going through.”

“They’re in stasis.” Striker said flatly, “I doubt they feel anything.”

“But still.” Tessa sighed placing her hand on the glass.

The subject’s human eye sprang open and looked down at her. Tessa screamed and jumped back. The subject’s mouth opened as if to let out a pain filled scream. Its face twisted in agony as it scraped its hand across the glass leaving scratches on the inside of the tube. Striker grabbed Tessa and turned her away from the tube. She hugged him tight still shaking and crying in his shoulder. Striker could only stare up at the tortured soul inside. For the first time he felt truly sorry for these people. For the first time he understood. An alien scream pierced through the door and filled the room. The door to the next tube opened and an alien slowly entered. Striker and Tessa quickly ducked behind one of the work tables. Striker peered out from the side. The alien sniffed the air and barked once. A reply came from deep in the tunnel, most likely from the next room. The alien went from tube to tube sniffing each one. It came to the tube with the wake subject. It tilted its head to the left as if eyeing it up. It let out another bark then slashed through the glass. The fluid poured out bringing the subject with it. The subject let out a fluid filled scream full of pain and agony. The subject swatted at the alien with its human arm leaving scratch marks on the side of the aliens face. It let out a piercing scream then bit the subjects face off. Striker gasped and ducked back behind the table.

“What?” Tessa whispered.

Striker just put his finger to his lips. Tessa nodded and zipped her lips shut. Striker smiled then peeped around the desk. A second alien poked its head in. The first alien gave a couple of barks. The second lowered its head slightly and then carried the body away. The alien looked over at the table. Striker quickly ducked back behind it. The alien started to creep toward the table but stopped as another subject woke up. It looked to be a cross between a RAcast and a FOnewm. The alien slashed open the tube then carted the body away. Striker let out a deep sigh.

“That was too close.” He whispered.

“See, we have to get out of here.” Tessa whispered back.

“Are you kidding?” Striker smiled, “The funs just started.”

“Oh great.” Tessa grumbled, “I had to fall for a psychopath with a death wish.”

Striker started for the tube that the aliens had gone through. Tessa grabbed his arm.

“What are you doing?” She asked, “The bad guys are that way!”

“We only have two ways to go.” Striker replied, “And we know the others aren’t that way so…”

“Fine.” Tessa exhaled as she threw her arms up, “I still say this is stupid!”

“You’re probably right.” Striker smiled as he pulled his Red Sword from its sheath on his back.

The next transport tube angled down to a pod lower on the mountain side. This was a computer lab filled with desks all lined in rows. Each desk had a terminal from which the scientists could analyse data. Several terminals were still running. Two tubes branched off from here. One ran up to a higher pod while the other ran to the volcano’s interior. Striker sat down at one of the computers and began looking through the material. Most of it he didn’t understand.

“There is some good news.” Striker said, “They haven’t added anybody to their freak show. In fact it looks like they’ve abandoned this cross breed project all together.”

“Then why keep those poor people alive?” Tessa frowned.

“Looks like they’re still studying the effects of the D-cells on them!” Striker shook his head slowly, “I’d say they’re still obsessed with controlling this dark energy.”

“What happens when these aliens become infected?” Tessa asked.

“They’ll mutate as well.” Striker shrugged, “I’d be more afraid if they found Dark Falz layer deep in the ruins. I’d hate to see what he’d make from one of those guys.”

“Dark Falz?” Tessa asked, “Oh that dark creature that wiped out Pioneer One.”

Striker nodded. He hadn’t actually been involved with the fight against Dark Falz but after talking with a few people who had, he knew it was bad. Striker had just found a floor map when some one screamed. It was a human scream and it came from the next exterior pod. Striker leapt from his chair and bolted up the tube. He stopped at the door and activated the photon edge on his sword. Devlin was standing with his back against the wall. His right arm had been bitten off just below the elbow. The alien inched closer. Drool dripped from its jaws. It clenched and unclenched its talons. Devlin noticed Striker in the door way.

“My bullets just bounced off!” He cried.

“Let’s see how he likes my blade.” Striker replied.

Striker charged at the alien. Its head whipped around and hissed at him. Striker chopped at the alien’s third segment. His sword grazed off leaving only a scratch in the shell. With out hesitating he stabbed at it. The point pierced through the shell but went no deeper.

“Well this sucks!” Striker tilted his head.

The alien took a swipe at him catching his shirt. Striker quickly grabbed his stomach searching for damage. Only his uniform was torn. He let out a sigh of relief. Tessa ran up beside him and let out a sharp scream.

“We need sharp pointy objects!” Striker barked.

Tessa nodded and drew her combat knife. The alien turned its attention back to Devlin. Tessa aimed and threw the knife. The alien drew back its talons ready to tear Devlin to pieces. The knife struck the alien in the side of the head. It let out a high pitched scream and grabbed the knife. It pulled the knife out, spasm, and then fell to the floor. Orange liquid poured out of the wound. Striker cautiously approached the alien and poked it with his sword. It remained motionless. Tessa retrieved her knife then tended to Devlin’s wound. Striker took a chop at the carcass. His blade bounced off. He then stabbed it, cracking the shell.

“Interesting.” He muttered.

“What are these things?” Devlin quivered.

Tessa pulled out a syringe and shot his arm full of pain killers, then checked the bandage on his arm.

“E.T.s I’d say.” Striker replied, “The real question is, why are they here?”

“Collecting food.” Tessa said flatly.

“Huh?” The two men frowned.

“You saw how they carried off those subjects.” Tessa shrugged, “The one ate that guy’s face and this guys arm.”

“Names Devlin.”

“Charmed.” Tessa smiled.

“There’s got to be more to it.” Striker shook his head, “Like how’d they know to come here. We don’t have any inhabitants on the surface yet and our population isn’t big enough to stand out as a food source.”

“Did you see the way their ship was growing into the surface.” Tessa said.

“It could be a colonization plan then.” Devlin suggested.

Tessa shrugged.

“Well, what ever the reason, they can’t stay.” Striker said storing the sword in its sheath, “We were here first.”

“Devlin, where did Harris go?” Tessa asked.

“We got separated when one of those things attacked.” Devlin replied, “Wait, you knew his name but not mine?”

“I knew your name.” Tessa grinned.

“Anyway, he went deeper into the mountain.” Devlin shrugged gripping his wrapped stub.

“I’ll bet that’s where Demoneye went too.” Striker growled.

“How’s the arm?” Tessa asked as she adjusted Devlin’s bandage.

“I think the painkillers are kicking in.” Devlin smiled.

“You better go back to the ship.” Striker said, “I’ll cast Ryuker for you.”

“Thanks.” Devlin smiled.

Striker threw his arm but nothing happened. He frowned and tried again. Nothing happened.

“This is very bad.” Tessa muttered.

“Come on.” Striker said, “You’ll just have to stay close.”

“Hold it Striker.” Tessa said grabbing his arm, “I’m no warrior and Devlin is disabled. We can’t fight those things. You’re responsibility is our safety now. You have to get us out.”

“I’m not leaving the others!” Striker growled and headed down the interior tunnel.

“We’re all going to die.” Devlin sighed.

Tessa nodded and followed Striker into the interior. It was Devlin clinging to Tessa’s arm now. He was glad she was pretty or this situation would be very grim indeed.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Falcon was sure he heard some one running through the bushes. It was headed away from them. Most likely the rouge scientist Mome and Falcon had questions for him. Falcon signalled for the group to fan out and search the area. He headed straight for the noise. Nikki and Crystal went off to the left and Sahara went right. They kept talking to each other so they wouldn’t get lost. Good idea when some one wants to be found. Not so good when they wanted to escape and this person definitely wanted to escape. Falcon had to pick up his pace as the person picked up their pace. Falcon heard him trip a couple of times. This was good; he could make up some distance. Falcon heard his prey fall and land in water. He splashed around climbing to his feet. Falcon increased his speed. He could hear the girls closing in on his position. Something let out a hiss just in front of him. Falcon froze for a second scanning his surrounding. When he deemed it safe he continued down the bank to the stream. A creature screamed in the bushes right in front of him. He darted forward just in time to see the abdomen and pincers of a large insect disappear in to the bush. Falcon wanted to pursue but a second scream stopped him. It came from his left. Nikki and Crystal were there. He may despise rangers and forces but they were his team-mates and his responsibility. Another scream came from his right. Someone ran past him on the top of the bank headed for the young women. Falcon scampered up the bank just as a creature ran past bumping him back down the bank. The creature stopped to look around then continued its pursuit.

“Sahara!” Falcon gasped.

He jumped to his feet and took a step toward the bank. He had the sudden feeling he was being watched. Slowly he turned around and came face to face with a dark alien creature. It seemed to stare at him with a sightless gaze. The lack of eyes was unnerving even for him. Moving very slowly he reached into his pack and pulled out his Yamato. The alien cocked its head and hissed. Falcon activated the blades and took a defensive stance. The alien screamed and lashed out with its talons. Falcon blocked then swung. His blade grazed off the aliens arm.

“NO!” Falcon yelled.

The alien took another swing. Falcon ducked just as the talon swung past his head. He returned with a swing of his own but again the sword glanced off. This only made him angrier. He charged with katanas swinging. Each strike just bounced off but the alien had to take a step back under Falcons barrage. It screamed waving its arms in the air.

“You remind me of another distasteful insect.” Falcon smirked.

The alien swung at him catching him in the chest. Internal alarms rang in his head as the talon severed a fluid line and several processors. Falcon was knocked on his back but quickly jumped to his feet. He swung again but failed to make any damage.

“What are you?” He cried and drove at the alien.

Both tips of the Yamato pierced through the aliens shell with a wet crack.

“Ah ha!” Falcon smiled.

He shoved the blades all the way in. The alien cried out. He twisted the blades sideways then pulled them apart. The sides of the alien’s body exploded in a splash of shell and orange liquid. The alien collapsed in a pool of its own liquid. Falcon turned and bolted up the bank. He could hear shots coming from nearby. As he approached the battle he could see the flashes from Crystal’s techniques. She appeared to be cycling through everyone. That was very unusual for a force. They would find the most effective and stick with it. Falcon broke through a thick bunch of bushes to find two aliens attacking his team. Nikki's shot were completely useless. Crystal’s techniques didn’t seem to be fairing much better. Falcon charged the closest one.

“Stab them!” He yelled.

Sahara nodded and charged the alien Falcon was headed to. Nikki drew her sabre and Crystal pulled her Elysion. Nikki attacked directly as Crystal circled around. The alien kept looking at each girl waiting for the first strike. Crystal started to take a stab first. The alien spun with talons swinging. Nikki charged digging her sabre into its abdomen. The pincers clicked trying to grab her but she managed to stay to the side of them. The alien bent around and grabbed her by the arm. Crystal charged in and drove the tip of her sword into the alien’s third segment. The alien twisted around tearing Nikki from her sabre and grabbed Crystal by the leg. She pulled out her sword and drove it into the aliens arm. The alien immediately let go. Its talon twitched but failed to function properly. Crystal took another stab at the segment. Orange fluid sprayed from the wound. It dropped Nikki and attacked Crystal with its good arm. Crystal ducked the first attack but the second tore a section of her dress away. Nikki ran around to the alien’s rear and grabbed her sabre. She tried tearing it out and even used her feet to push against the alien. Finally the sabre came lose cutting a large slice out of the alien. It spun around and batted her away; its sharp claws tearing through her shirt and into her chest. She cried out as she hit the ground.

“Nikki!” Crystal cried.

The alien turned to face the force. She had to get to the younger ranger but this monster was stopping her. She grit her teeth and clamped down on the Elysion. The alien was bleeding heavily but hadn’t lost any of its ferocity. It roared and charged. Crystal blocked its attack then drove her sword up into its chest. She pulled it out then dropped to her hands and knees crawling under the creature as it slowly collapsed. She scampered over to where Nikki had landed. She was lying on her back holding her chest.

“Don’t move, I’ll fix you up.” Crystal smiled.

She cast Resta healing Nikki’s wounds. Nikki slowly got to her feet and stretched out the stiffness in her muscles. Crystal stood there grinning at her.

“What?” Nikki shrugged.

“You’re shirt is not hiding anything.” Crystal giggled.

Nikki looked down and quickly crossed her arms and turned red. Crystal smiled then torn off her dress just above her knees.

“It was ruined any way.” She shrugged.

Crystal took the dress piece and tied it around Nikki’s chest

“There.” She nodded, “Good as new.”

“Thank you.” Nikki smiled, “That was so embarrassing.”

“You’re lucky the boys aren’t here to see that.” Crystal giggled.

“I know.” Nikki gasped, “Can you imagine.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Sahara’s daggers had dug deep into the third segment of the alien but they were slowly slipping out as the alien continued to buck. Falcon ducked and dodged its attacks while he poked at every opportunity. Unfortunately he wasn’t doing a lot of damage. He jumped away from snapping jaws then dove forward landing a lucky strike at the creatures left shoulder. He heard the arm pop as it dislodged from its joint. He struck with the second katana then heard Nikki scream in pain.

“Curse you fowl demons.” He growled.

Sahara pulled out a dagger then drove it home again. The alien screamed and clawed at her with its hind foot. It finally managed to kick her away but she left two deep cuts. Orange blood poured from the wounds. Sahara jumped to her feet and attacked again. Falcon went flying past her. She landed one strike to the creature’s chest before it grabbed her head in its massive talon. She could hear the metal plating of her cranium begin to crinkle as the alien squeezed. She cried for help. Falcon seemed to come from no where jumping over the alien and landing on its back. Before it could react he drove his katana through its skull. It let out a gurgled scream then fell dead. Sahara pushed the hand off of her and climbed to her feet.

“Are you all right?” Falcon asked.

“I’ll survive.” Sahara nodded, “Let’s go check on the others.”

Crystal and Nikki had already killed their alien. Falcon was actually mildly impressed. Sahara quickly checked on the girls and was relieved to find they were unharmed but she decided not to ask why Nikki was wearing part of Crystals dress. Falcon looked around and nodded when he spotted the volcano.

“We better get to the lab before more of them find us.”

“What about Mome?” Nikki asked.

“If it was him, then he is dead.” Falcon replied, “They got him.”

He kicked the dead alien then headed for the volcano. The three girls exchanged worried looks and followed him deeper into the jungle.


Doctor Mome’s head hurt. He slowly opened his eyes. The room was dimly lit but his vision was blurry so he couldn’t make out any details. He tried to rub his eyes but his arms wouldn’t move. He could still feel them. Something was wrapped tight around him, he couldn’t even wiggle. Slowly his vision returned giving him a look at his new prison. It looked like a large corridor rather than a room. Everything was covered in dark green vine. Mome was wrapped in them. Dim glowing pods produced the only light. Mome looked around and saw several of the lab scientists were here with him as well as some of the test subjects. Every one was wrapped in vines and suspended a couple feet from the ground. Only their heads were left exposed. Mome looked over at the wall across from him and nearly screamed. Hanging there was a human carcass, shrivelled and dry. The air in here was much too moist for the body to have dried on its own. It should be a rotting pile of mush by now. Mome could only surmise that it had been drained of every last fluid. Mome watched helplessly as two aliens entered the corridor carrying two of the test subjects. One stopped in front of Mome and tore the dried body from the wall. It placed the subject in its place. Vines shot out from the wall and wrapped the subject tight. They hung the other one farther away. It was moaning and crying. One alien pulled out a large canister from a place Mome couldn’t see. A small tube extended from the top and shot into the subject’s neck. The subject slowly quieted then fell asleep. The other alien walked up to one of the scientists that were already hanging there. It opened its mouth and extended a large tube from the back of its throat. It had three large teeth that bit into the right side of the base of the neck. The body slowly started to shrivel as the creature drained the fluids from the body. The speed and efficiency amazed Mome but the horror over came him. He let out a short yell. The other alien stepped up to him and looked him over. It held up the canister and injected him with the same stuff. Mome’s eyes grew heavy and finally fell asleep.

The power distribution room wasn’t nearly as heavily guarded as Deepfreeze had anticipated. The automated security had gone down in the attack and most of the guards had been reassigned to the repair. Deepfreeze had made it almost all the way without encountering a single guard. He rounded a corner and saw a flash light beam at the end of the hall. He quickly ducked back around the corner.

“Great, the lights are out.” He muttered.

He took a quick glance at his map. This was the only way to the circuit breakers. He had to take the guard out without hurting him. The guard’s boots clicked loudly in the empty hallway. This area of the ship was normally very noisy but with so much of the ship shut down it was eerily quiet. He waited for the guard to round the corner then before the guard could react, he used the butt of his Ruby Bullet to knock the guard out.

“Sorry.” Deepfreeze said softly.

He grabbed the guards flash light and hurried down the hall. The breaker room was pitch black with exception to the light coming from the panels when the ship was fully active the panels would light the entire room, however most of the panel lights were off. Deepfreeze quickly scanned each panel until he found the power grid to the lab. He quickly pushed each button killing power to the lab.

“Sorry Cal.” He said as he pushed the last button.

Somebody would be down shortly to check this out. That wouldn’t be enough time to clear out the lab. He needed to keep the power off a little longer. He used his handgun like a hammer to smash some of the switches. He nodded with a smile and hurried out. He started to run down the hall until he heard voices ahead. It was definitely the repair crew and they had found the guard. Deepfreeze’s heart beat began to quicken as he tried to think of a way out. He turned and ran back the he had come. The door quietly closed behind him. It would take the repair crew only a minute or two to make sure the guard was alright. All most frantically he searched the room. If he got caught now all their work would be ruined and Rico would be on her own. She needed him whether she knew it or not. Deepfreeze had seen her slowly slipping away over the past year and he was the only reason she was still hanging on. He found a service hatch in the floor but it was locked. He quickly fixed that with his Ruby Bullet. The shot melted the locks away then he kicked the panel in, and then jumped in just as the repair crew entered the room. He landed with a hard thud. His left ankle twisted sideways. Pain shot up his leg. It was all he could do not to cry out. He used the pipes and wire bundles in the service tunnel to pull him self up then hopped away. When he was sure he wasn’t being followed he stopped to tend to his foot. It was already feeling better so he didn’t bother wasting Resta on it. He turned his head to talk to his mag, and then remembered Sato was still at home.

“Boy, I could really use your company right now.” He muttered.

He had been with Sato for so long she felt like a part of him. That was the hardest part of this mission, and he was glad it was coming to an end. They were very close now, he could feel it. He shook his foot then hurried down the tunnel. He had to reach Elly's apartment before she did.


Even with the lab dark and quiet, Elly had wanted to stay. Chief Natasha had sent everyone home until power could be restored. With no lights and no life support it just wasn’t safe. She was worried about Cal. There was no telling how the power failure would affect him. She slowly shuffled her way down the hall to her apartment door. She punched in her door code and stepped through the door. The lights failed to come on.

“Lights!” She called.

Nothing happened.

“Oh great, now what?” She muttered.

“Have a seat Elly.” A voice said.

She screamed and stepped back. The door closed and locked. A tall dark figure stepped out from the corner. The back light from the window kept his face in shadow. The planet was just coming into view feeding the room with even more light. The figure gestured to the couch.

“Please sit.” He said, “I won’t hurt you.”

“You sound very familiar.” Elly frowned, “Who are you?”

“A friend who needs your help.” He replied.

“My help?” Elly tilted her head, “What can I do?”

“You have access to Cal.” He said.

“I hate to tell you this but the power is out in the lab.” Elly frowned.

“I know.” He nodded, “I turned it off. Don’t worry it’ll be back on soon.”

“You!” Elly gasped, “But why?”

“To get you out of lab so I could talk to you.” He said flatly.

“You put Cal at risk!” Elly said angrily, “You could have done a lot of damage!”

“Cal is fine.” He waved, “He’s still running. Only his interface has been powered down.”

“Really?” Elly asked hopefully.

“Really.” He nodded, “I need to know what this opens.”

He handed the card to her. She looked it over for a minute then shrugged.

“OK but how do I contact you when I find out?”

“I’ll be here at ten o’clock tonight.” He said, “Oh and don’t tell anyone what you are doing or where you got that card.”

He started to walk out.

“Hey wait!” Elly called, “What’s this all about?”

“The less you know the better.” He replied then walked out.

“Why doesn’t anybody tell me anything?” Elly pouted.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Rico was standing on the beach with her hood down. Her eyes were closed and her head was tilted up at the sun. The purple bruise marks on her face were getting bigger. This was the first time Deepfreeze had seen her with her hood off. He quietly approached her taking up a position beside her. They stood silent for a moment.

“I had forgotten how good the sun felt.” She said at last.

“Don’t tell me you haven’t done this before now.” Deepfreeze said.

“When you look like I do you don’t want even the chance that someone might see you.” Rico replied, “Besides I’m dead remember?”

“It’s truly sad when that’s not a joke.” Deepfreeze sighed.

“Is that how you see me?” Rico said looking up at him with pain filled eyes.

“You said so yourself.” Deepfreeze replied without looking at her, “I know that isn’t your body and that your soul is trapped inside but know this, you are still a human being from where I stand.”

“For the first time I almost feel human.” Rico said looking away, “The dark energy that is clawing away at me has actually let up.”

“Let up?” Deepfreeze frowned.

Rico nodded. “For the first time since you released me, it’s not calling out to me. I can still feel it but it isn’t trying to draw me in.”

“This is good news.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“No it isn’t.” Rico said turning to him, “I’m more afraid now than when it was eating away at me.”

“What are you saying?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Something else has grabbed Dark Falz attention.” Rico said wiping a tear away, “Look, I’m actually crying.”

Deepfreeze hesitated for a second then put his arm around her and held her tight.

“What ever it is we’ll stop it.” He said softly.

“I haven’t cried since being absorbed!!” She sobbed, “What does this mean!”

“What I’ve being trying to tell you.” He replied, “There’s always hope.”

“Why does hope for me have to mean doom for our people?” Rico cried.

“You don’t know that?” Deepfreeze said softly.

“Yes I do.” Rico replied pulling away.

“We have good people on Pioneer Two.” Deepfreeze smiled, “We can stop anything this planet can throw at us.”

“I hope you’re right.” She replied drying her eyes.

“So what have you got for me?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Nothing right now.” Rico shrugged, “You?”

“First Mome is our traitor!” Deepfreeze said, “Although I don’t have any actual proof yet. I did find his office but it was cleared of anything useful. Oh except for this access card I found tucked away in a book!”

“What does it open?” Rico asked, “Where is it!”

“I don’t know and with a friend.” Deepfreeze replied, “I’ll know more tonight.”

“This is an awful risk you’re taking.” Rico sighed.

“She’s never let me down before.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“Alright.” Rico nodded once, “I’ve received reports that the ship that attacked Pioneer Two landed on that southern island. I’m going to check it out.”

“I thought you didn’t have anything?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“This isn’t anything everybody doesn’t already know.” Rico shrugged.

“Be careful.” Deepfreeze said, “They are obviously the bad guys.”

“I will.” Rico smiled and kissed him on the check, “Thank you.”

She turned and teleported back to the ship. Deepfreeze stood rubbing his cheek. Rico’s kiss had been ice cold. It was another rude reminder of what she really was. He sighed and started to cast Ryuker but a rustling in the bushes stopped him. He drew his Final Impact and watched the shadows carefully. The bushes rustled again. It was an individual and from what Deepfreeze could tell it was most likely an android.

“Come on out!” He yelled, “Or I’ll be forced to shoot!”

Slowly a very short RAcaseal dressed in white and pink emerged from the bushes. She was sporting a Guardians crest.

“What are you doing here?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Hunting invisible spiders.” Lisa replied, “They’re all over this island. I kind of got lost and heard voices. I wanted to come out earlier but that girl frightened me.”

“She won’t hurt you.” Deepfreeze smiled, “She’s on our side.”

“Where have you been?” Lisa asked, “We’ve all been very worried about you.”

“I know but Pioneer Two is in great danger.” Deepfreeze said, “Someone is still using Lazarus research. I’m trying to put a stop to it.”

“Seems like the longer we stay here the more trouble we get in.” Lisa sighed, “Where’s Sato?”

“At home.” Deepfreeze said, “I was just about to go get her.”

“Let’s go.” Lisa smiled.

“What about your quest?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“I’m not on a quest.” Lisa shook her head, “I’m using the spiders to practice.”

“At least their good for something.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

He formed a telepipe and stepped in. Lisa followed right behind. They appeared in a deserted corridor under the residential areas. Lisa looked a little confused but quickly shook it off then ran to catch up.

“You couldn’t wait?” She asked.

“Sorry, I’m supposed to be alone.” He replied, “Secret covert operations.”

“Even secret agents need a friend.” Lisa said, “I can help.”

“I know but I fear I’m getting into something that is too dangerous for you.”

“Ha anything you can handle I can help with.” Lisa bowed.

Deepfreeze laughed. “That’s not exactly how it goes.”

“I know but it’s truer this way.” Lisa smiled.

Deepfreeze stopped at a hatch. He looked down at Lisa.

“Wait here.” He said, “The entire area is decompressed. I’ve got Sato stored in a pressure chamber in my apartment. I’ll run in and grab her and come right back.”

“You put her in a pressure chamber just in case?” Lisa smirked.

“No but when it comes to Sato I don’t like to take chances.” Deepfreeze replied, “I have a chamber that she can crawl into if something happens. I don’t like to leave her in the apartment with out some kind of protection. It protects from fire and theft as well.”

Lisa nodded. Deepfreeze pulled up a loose floor plate and pulled out an environment pressure suit. He quickly pulled it on then stepped through the hatch. Twenty minutes past before he reappeared again.

“I was almost beginning to think you weren’t coming back.” Lisa smiled.

“The thought had crossed my mind.” Deepfreeze replied rather coldly then smiled, “Fortunately I’d never do that to a friend. The repair teams were more numerous than I had anticipated.”

“I’m glad you didn’t.” Lisa nodded.

“Well you were right.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “I need your help.”

“Really!” Lisa exclaimed.

Deepfreeze nodded.

“Oh thank you!” Lisa cheered.

“That girl I was with is very sick and won’t be able to help me much longer.”

“She’s more than just sick.” Lisa shook her head, “I saw her eyes.”

“Observant little thing aren’t you.” Deepfreeze chuckled, “The important thing is she helped us when we needed her and now she needs help.”

“She’s the girl in the cloak!” Lisa exclaimed.

Deepfreeze nodded.

“She stole Pushan.” Lisa frowned.

Her mag made a small trill sound.

“She returned him.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “And she made those enhanced weapons don’t forget.”

They reached the hatch at the end of the hallway. Deepfreeze carefully opened the door and peered out. When it was all clear he stepped out. Lisa closed the hatch behind her. Deepfreeze started for the warp when his left arm beeped. He hit the button and studied the readout.

“That was my tap on Olga.” He said, “Some one just tried accessing Osto’s files again.”

“Who?” Lisa asked.

“Mome.” Deepfreeze replied bluntly.

“Doctor Mome?” Lisa gasped, “He didn’t seem like the kind of man to be involved in this.”

“I know.” Deepfreeze sighed, “Elly should be back at the lab by now. I’ll see if she knows where he’s working.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER NINETEEN

Elly was trying to keep her work very quiet. Cal had isolated her terminal but she usually got a little excited when she discovered something new. It was hard to control. She was just finishing the scan on Deepfreeze’s card when her arm cuff beeped. She was surprised to see it was from Deepfreeze.

“It’s not a good idea to contact me now.” She whispered, “I working for some one who wants to remain secret. His work is very hush hush.”

“I know that Elly.” Deepfreeze sighed, “It’s for me.”

“You!” Elly exclaimed.

Everyone in the lab looked at her. She blushed and looked down at her terminal.

“Elly keep it down!” Deepfreeze scolded her, “Listen, someone is trying to access Olga. Is Mome working today?”

“This whole cloak and dagger dark persona doesn’t really suit you.” Elly whispered, “Where have you been all this time.”

“Elly focus!” Deepfreeze growled.

“Sorry.” Elly blushed, “Mome disappeared on that southern island where the aliens landed. Falcons team was pursuing him but they lost him when they were attacked.”

“Attacked!” Deepfreeze exclaimed, “Are they all right. Who’s with him?”

“Sahara, Nikki, and Crystal.” Elly replied, “I haven’t been able to contact them since you shorted out the power.”

“I’m going after them.” Deepfreeze said.

“You can’t.” Elly said a little too loud.

Everyone in the lab was staring at her. She smiled sheepishly and waved with her fingers. Slowly the gazes turned away.

“If someone else is accessing Olga then you must find them.” Elly said softly, “Besides I got that trace on your card.”

“I can’t just leave my friends.” Deepfreeze insisted.

“OK I’ll contact Cerberus and Hitman.” Elly sighed, “They are more than capable of finding them.”

“Thanks Elly.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“Go to lab four.” Elly said, “It’s empty. I’ll leave your card and the information there. In the number two bio analyser.”

“Got it.” Deepfreeze nodded and cut the signal.

He turned and stared down at Lisa. She stared back for a moment then shrugged.

“What?”

“How stealthy can you be?”



It was getting late and Amanda was still asleep. Cerberus had been by her side since they returned. HitmanJ and Aphrodite entered the small medical room and sat down beside her.

“How is she?” HitmanJ asked.

“Stable.” Cerberus said, “I never should have taken her.”

“You can’t blame yourself for this.” Aphrodite shook her head, “This was her mission. You couldn’t have anticipated this.”

“She’s right.” HitmanJ nodded, “No one could have known these aliens would show up.”

“What bugs me is how they knew to come here.” Cerberus said, “It took us countless probes to find Ragol. They’ve sent nothing and yet they knew to come straight here. Even before they intercepted Pioneer Three, they were coming here.”

“I don’t know but…” HitmanJ started but was interrupted by his BEE.

“Elly here. I need to see you and Cerberus right away!”

“We’re on our way.” HitmanJ nodded.

“I’m not leaving Amanda.” Cerberus said flatly.

“It’s OK, I’ll stay with her.” Aphrodite nodded.

“Elly needs us.” HitmanJ said slapping the android on the shoulder, “It must be important.”

“Very well.” Cerberus said climbing out of his seat.


Elly didn’t smile as the rangers approached her station. They knew then it must be pretty bad. She looked to make sure no one was watching then waved the two men forward.

“Falcons team has disappeared.” She said softly, “Officially their not missing yet but I can’t contact them. I was hoping you guys could go look for them.”

“Falcon can take care of himself.” HitmanJ shrugged, “What’s the big deal.”

“He took Nikki and Crystal.” Elly replied.

“Nikki went!” Cerberus exclaimed.

“She’s not experienced enough to deal with this.” HitmanJ said.

“Does her brother know?” Cerberus asked.

“No.” Elly shook her head,

“We have to get them back.” Cerberus said, “It’s hard enough keeping Jesse home when she goes on regular quests.”

“I don’t get it.” Elly frowned, “Why are you guys trying so hard to keep him from doing hunters quest?”

“Think of him as a young Ash.” HitmanJ pointed.
.
“Oh.” Elly whispered.

“Come on Hitman.” Cerberus said.

“We should tell Aphrodite first.” HitmanJ sighed, “If I left without telling her, she’d kill me.”

“The collar and leash are on already!” Cerberus laughed.

“I heard that!” Elly called.

“Great now she’s going to tell Aphrodite and I’ll get blamed.” HitmanJ jabbed Cerberus’ arm.

Cerberus laughed. They hurried back to the medical booth to find Aphrodite waiting outside.

“What are you doing?” HitmanJ asked.

“A girl needs her privacy.” Aphrodite shrugged.

“Huh?” The rangers frowned.

“Amanda is up!” Aphrodite announced.

“Really?” Cerberus grinned and started for the door.

Aphrodite stepped in front of him waving a finger.

“No, no, not until she’s done!”

Amanda stepped out adjusting her uniform. Cerberus scooped her up and hugged her.

“Alright, alright big guy!” She horsed.

“Sorry.” Cerberus said setting her down, “I was really worried about you. I think of you as a sister and I shouldn’t have let you go.”

“Now you’re starting to sound like Deepfreeze.” Amanda frowned, “Stop it!”

Cerberus nodded.

“I’m a big girl now and I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself.” Amanda stomped her foot and smiled, “Besides I wouldn’t have let you leave me behind. It was my family we were looking for.”

“She’s right.” Aphrodite nodded.

“We have a situation planet side.” HitmanJ said, “Falcons team has disappeared. Cerberus and I are going to look for them.”

“Not without us you’re not.” Aphrodite frowned placing her hands on her hips.

“You two are not going.” Cerberus said.

“Yes we are!” Amanda said pushing past him.

Aphrodite followed her giving Cerberus a smirk and a nod.

“See.” HitmanJ shrugged, “Can’t win.”

“How do you humans stand to be in life long relationships with them?” Cerberus frowned.

“Do you really want an answer?” HitmanJ asked.

“I’m an android.” Cerberus replied, “Yes!”

“They use our own weaknesses against us.” HitmanJ shrugged, “They use their curves and smells and moves to lure us in. It isn’t until well after the ring is on and the seduction stops that we men realize we’ve been tricked.”

“I don’t get it.” Cerberus shook his head.

“Neither do I buddy.” HitmanJ sighed, “Neither do I.”

“Come on we better hurry up.” Cerberus said.

“So, how do we get our equipment when the cityscape is decompressed?” HitmanJ frowned.

“Oh crap!” Cerberus gasped, “I forgot all about that!”

“All my equipment is stored away in the check room.” HitmanJ said.

“Mine too.” Aphrodite added.

“I guess you’ll just have to grab some stuff from the local shops.” Cerberus shrugged, “At least you still have access to your Meseta.”

“Great.” HitmanJ muttered, “Back to basic stuff.”

“You two grab some equipment then meet us in the lab.” Cerberus pointed.

“Right.” HitmanJ nodded then grabbed Aphrodite’s arm, “Come on!”

Cerberus watched the couple disappear into the crowd then turned for the warp. He started walking away without saying a word. Amanda hadn’t noticed him leave and had to run to catch up. She took up a position behind and kept quiet. She could tell he was lost in thought. She knew he was worried about their friends but she suspected there was much more. Oddly enough her thoughts began to drift toward Striker. She wondered how he was making out on his quest. As far as she knew, no one had been isolated from the ship for this long and definitely not in as harsh an environment as he was in. Cerberus stopped abruptly and Amanda actually ran into him.

“Hey!”

Cerberus turned and looked down. “Sorry!”

“What’s the big idea?” Amanda frowned.

“I just realized I haven’t heard from Lisa all day.” Cerberus replied, “Deepfreeze made me promise to watch out for the little android. She was planning to go to Gal Da Val Island and practise on the spiders.”

“By herself!” Amanda gasped.

Cerberus nodded.

“She doesn’t have that kind of experience.” Amanda shook her head.

“I know but she insisted on going and there wasn’t anyone available to accompany her.” Cerberus explained, “She is as stubborn as you are.”

It was Amanda’s turn to just nod.

“Come on.” Cerberus waved, “We’ll check the island first then head to the south.”

“You think that’s wise?” Amanda asked, “What about Falcon and his team?”

“If anyone can keep his team alive it’s Falcon!” Cerberus sighed.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY

Sue stood alone on the southern beach of Gal Da Val Island. She stood watching a storm brewing far out in the ocean. The sky was growing black with bright flashes of lightening. The wind had died off a few minutes ago. The calm before the storm. It seemed fitting considering what they were about to do. The northern camp had been cleared out and soon they would all gather here. Once Black Hound had been recovered and brought here they would be able to begin the attack. Pioneer Two’s scientists had held Black Paper hostage long enough. Kireek would lead them to success and wipe out anyone who would try to take power. It was more than the ring leaders they held. It was the contacts and clients Black Paper used. Lazarus had some how obtained the names of every Black Paper member, their contacts, customers, merchandise with serial numbers as well as the codes to the slaves neural chips including hers. It was all stored on a disk that Lazarus had hidden. Mome claimed he possessed the disk. Sue didn’t believe him but she couldn’t take that chance. If he released the information to the authorities, then they could trace it all the way back to Coral. Black Paper would be ruined. If they struck fast enough they might be able to recover the information before anyone knew what was happening.

“Sue.” A voice said.

She turned to see a tall dark RAmar dressed in black. She smiled and waved him over.

“Hello Nighthawk.” She said softly.

Nighthawk had served Black Paper for as long as she had been alive. He had been very high up in the hierarchy for a very long time. His current role was spy on board Pioneer Two. He had been tracking Mome ever since Lazarus had died. His being here was a bad sign.

“What have you got?” Sue asked.

“Mome has transported to the southern facility with Doctor Myers.” Nighthawk reported, “We’ve lost him but we believe the disk is still on board the ship.”

“Good.” Sue nodded, “We move soon.”

“Wait, there’s more.” Nighthawk said holding up his hand.

Sue turned and looked deep into his eyes. He looked right back. Once again their souls connected. A shiver ran up Sue’s spine. They had secretly been lovers for a couple years now. No one knew. No one could know. It was strictly forbidden for a member to be romantically involved with a slave. She still felt his love but there was more. She snapped her head away breaking their bond.

“What is it?” She asked.

“We found the ice ranger.” Nighthawk said, “He’s been snooping around the lab. Strange thing is he isn’t wearing his ranger uniform. It’s been difficult keeping track of him but we believe he did find something in Mome’s office. Our operatives are watching the lab in case he returns.”

“Deepfreeze.” Sue whispered, “What are you after?”

“Sue?” Nighthawk said softly.

“Stay here and wait for the others.” Sue said.

“But Sue!” Nighthawk started to protest.

“Wait for the others.” Sue repeated, “I’ll handle Deepfreeze personally.”

“As you wish.” Nighthawk bowed.

Sue sighed then turned and walked away. She knew it was difficult for him to take orders from a slave but she had been the only one with enough gall to step up and begin this revolt. She was hoping Black Paper’s freedom would mean hers too. Sue cast Ryuker and stepped into the telepipe. She appeared not on the promenade but in the lab instead. Everyone stopped and stared at her. She frantically looked around with a very confused expression on her face.

“Hello Sue.” Natasha said calmly, “We haven’t seen you in quite a while. How’s Black Paper.”

“What?” Sue blurted, “I don’t know what you’re talking about!”

“Indeed.” Natasha muttered.

“What am I doing here?” Sue frowned, “Why am I not on the promenade?”

“The city area has been decompressed from the recent attack.” Natasha explained, “Repair crews are working on the damage as we speak.”

“Attack, what attack?” Sue frowned.

“What’s the matter?” Natasha smirked, “Your informants not keeping you up to date.”

“Shut up!” Sue growled.

She stormed out of the main room and into the hallway that led to the laboratories. She seethed with anger. She didn’t know who she was more upset at, Natasha for embarrassing her or her spy’s for not keeping her informed. She stormed past Montague’s lab just as Elenor walked out carrying a tray of beakers. Sue was knocked onto her back as the tray crashed to the floor. Elenor gasped and jumped back.

“Oh hello Sue.” Elenor smiled.

“Watch where you’re going android!” Sue snapped.

Elenor offered to help her up. Sue slapped her hand away which hurt a lot more than Sue expected.

“I don’t need any help from the likes of you.” Sue growled rubbing her hand.

“As you wish.” Elenor stood sheepishly.

Sue stormed past her checking each lab she past. Deepfreeze wasn’t in any of them. She must have beaten him here. Advantage Sue. She stepped out of the last lab just as the door at the end of the hall opened. He wasn’t wearing his uniform but Sue recognized him instantly. Deepfreeze stepped through the door followed by the little white and pink RAcaseal. Sue quickly ducked back into the lab and locked the door. She hit the power switch on one of the monitors and watched as he stopped to chat with Elenor. Sue turned up the volume so it was barely audible.

“Greetings Deepfreeze.” Elenor smiled, “It’s been so long.”

“Yes it has.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Doing some errands for Carlos?”

“No, this is my own project.” Elenor shook her head, “Doctor Montague disappeared shortly before the attack.”

“Really?” Deepfreeze frowned, “How close to the attack?”

“The day before.” Elenor replied.

“That’s odd.” Deepfreeze scratched his head, “Even for him.”

“I think he was on the verge of recreating those high frequency photons too.” Elenor said, “Then he suddenly just up and left.”

“That’s very wrong.” Deepfreeze said.

“Ya he shouldn’t be working on those.” Lisa’s voice squeaked, “They’re too dangerous.”

“I mean him up and leaving a major break through like that unfinished.” Deepfreeze frowned.

“I know.” Lisa nodded, “But those frighten me more.”

“So they should.” Elenor said, “They’re very dangerous.”

“Thank you Elenor.” Deepfreeze smiled, “We’ll see you later.”

“I’ll hold you to that!” Elenor called as they walked away.

“None of this makes sense.” Deepfreeze frowned, “Why would he leave a project like that unfinished. What are the odds that he’d just happen to leave right before the day of the attack?”

“And where did he go?” Lisa asked.

“Yes, where’d he go?” Deepfreeze pondered.

They stopped in front of the lab Sue was hiding in. If they came in she was caught. She watched the monitors intently. Her heart beat began to rise. Deepfreeze pulled out a piece of paper. Sue couldn’t read what was on it. Deepfreeze looked up at the end wall then back at the paper.

“Cal’s trace indicates the reader for this card should be past this wall.” Deepfreeze said.

“Card, what card?” Sue asked softly, “What are you talking about?”

Lisa tapped the wall then shrugged.

“Seems solid.”

“Check the wall.” Deepfreeze said, “There must be a hidden door or passage way.”

They pushed on every panel and checked every seam but found nothing. Lisa sighed and leaned up against the wall. Deepfreeze pulled the card from his pocket and studied it for a moment. Soon his studying turned to simply flipping it around in his fingers.

“We are missing something here.” He grumbled.

“Yes but what?” Lisa shrugged, “There’s no sign of movement from anything on this wall. Could it be in one of the labs?”

“If it is, it could take us days to search every lab.” Deepfreeze sighed.

“There must be a clue somewhere.” Lisa frowned, “Where did you find it?”

“Mome's office!” Deepfreeze replied, “In a locked cabinet. Let’s go have another look!”

Deepfreeze hurried back down the hall with Lisa in tow. He turned right and entered the administrative section. Mome’s office was at the center of a hallway two blocks from the exit. The door had been sealed but that was nothing for Lisa who had learned how to hack into computer systems. Deepfreeze was pleasantly surprised at his young friends newly acquired skill. The door slid open and the lights came on.

“Very good.” He smiled as he stepped in.

“Thank you.” Lisa giggled.

Deepfreeze was very much a mentor to her and this was high praise coming from him. It made her feel warm and useful inside. Deepfreeze walked over to the book shelf and was pleased to see the journal still sitting there. He picked it up and handed to Lisa.

“Scan through this and see if you can find anything.”

Lisa nodded and began reading faster than any human could possibly do. Deepfreeze walked over to the cabinet and opened it up. It was mostly empty with only a couple of file folders lying on the floor. Deepfreeze scooped them up and began reading through them. Lisa finished the book and set it down.

“There’s a lot of photon and D-cell research mentioned in here.” She said, “If it weren’t so focused on the manipulation and control of the dark energy I’d say it almost read like one of Montague’s reports.”

“What did you say?” Deepfreeze snapped up from his report.

“I said it almost reads like Montague.” Lisa repeated.

“Of course!” Deepfreeze snapped his fingers, “How could I have missed it.”

“What?” Lisa asked.

“What we are looking for is in Montague’s lab.”

“Huh?” Lisa frowned.

“Who on this ship has spent more time researching the photon energy of this planet?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Montague.” Lisa replied.

“And who came up with the method for changing monster parts into weapons?” Deepfreeze continued.

“Montague.” Lisa nodded.

“And who built an android designed to tap directly into the planets photon source!” Deepfreeze pointed.

“Montague.” Lisa shrugged.

“And who disappears one day before the attack?” Deepfreeze finished.

“Montague!” Lisa growled.

“What ever is going on here I’ll bet he’s behind this.” Deepfreeze frowned.

“But he seemed so nice!” Lisa pouted.

“I trusted him too.” Deepfreeze sighed, “I don’t think he’s really bad but I wouldn’t be surprised if he simply got carried away.”

“Leapt before he looked?” Lisa asked.

“Exactly.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Let’s go.”

They quickly returned to the lab section. Montague’s lab was empty. Elenor hadn’t returned from where ever she had been headed. Only then did it occur to him that he should have inquired about the tray and broken glass. Elenor wasn’t clumsy enough to do that on her own. She hadn’t started to clean them up either which meant it had just happened. Since no one else was around meant the culprit was hiding. This worried him. He quickly looked around but didn’t see anyone. He tapped Lisa’s shoulder.

“Stay alert. We’re being followed!”

“By who?” Lisa asked.

“I don’t know but Elenor didn’t drop that tray on her own.” He replied.

“How do you know she dropped it?” Lisa asked.

“No one else is working here right now and she cleaned them up after we left!” Deepfreeze replied.

“Ah.” Lisa nodded.

“Let’s see what we can find.” Deepfreeze nodded.

They searched every wall, every cabinet and shelf, every piece of equipment. Elenor walked in just as Lisa stumbled across a hidden warp platform inside one of his stasis chambers.

“What are you guys doing?” Elenor asked.

“Deepfreeze, look at this!” Lisa called.

Deepfreeze ignored Elenor and went to see what Lisa had found.

“Nice work.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“You guys aren’t supposed to be touching this equipment!” Elenor protested.

“Why would Montague hide a warp platform?” Deepfreeze asked turning to Elenor.

“I don’t know.” Elenor shook her head, “I’ve never seen this before.”

“And this looks like a place for a card.” Lisa said pointing to a slot on the inside wall of the chamber.

“Indeed it does.” Deepfreeze smiled.

He slipped the card into the slot then pulled it out. The green field formed over the platform. Deepfreeze stepped in first, followed by Lisa and Elenor.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

They appeared in a dark metal hallway. A wall was at their back. It was the other side of the wall in the lab hallway. Deepfreeze pulled a flash light from his pack. Sato gave a soft trill and Pushan gave a chirp.

“The mags are upset.” Elenor said.

“Why?” Deepfreeze asked.

“They sense danger ahead.” Elenor replied, “They don’t know what it is but Pushan says it smells very familiar.”

“Familiar how?” Lisa asked.

“He can’t remember exactly.” Elenor said, “From long ago.”

“How long ago?” Lisa asked growing ever more worried, “Before me?”

“No, he was with you.” Elenor replied.

Sato let out a couple of meows followed by a trill.

“Ah thank you.” Elenor smiled, “She says it was under Gal Da Val Island.”

“How does she…” Deepfreeze began.

“Mags talk better with each other than with me.” Elenor shrugged.

“Then we proceed with caution.” Deepfreeze said drawing his Ruby Bullet.

They slowly inched down the hallway watching for anything. Deepfreeze waved his flash light back and forth. It glanced across something that looked like a shadow but when he brought the light back it was gone.

“Creepy.” He muttered.

They move a little farther down and again his light crossed a shadow. Everyone saw it this time.

“Phantoms!” Lisa gasped, “Turn the light off!”

“If I do that then we can’t see them attack.” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Exactly!” Lisa replied, “They can’t hurt us in the dark. They can only exist in the light.”

“Clever.” Deepfreeze said and killed the light.

Lisa took his hand and slowly moved forward. He had to trust that she knew where she was going.

“Can you see?” He asked.

“Of course.” Lisa nodded, “I got an optical upgrade last month which includes night vision.”

“There’s enough light in here for that?” Deepfreeze asked.

“The dim glow from your gun’s power cell is providing just enough.” Lisa replied,

“Good for them.” Deepfreeze mumbled.

They rounded several corners before stopping at a large blast door. There was a card reader on the right side. Lisa took the card from Deepfreeze and slid it in. She pulled it out causing the door to slide open. The hallway was flooded with light. The phantoms returned moaning as they dropped from the ceiling. Instead of attacking they flew the other way. Everyone stood in stunned silence. A girl screamed and came running at them. It was Sue. The phantoms swooped at her. She had to duck and dodge the attacks.

“Come on.” Deepfreeze waved.

The others quickly entered the lab. Deepfreeze hit the door control as Sue approached. He waved her on as the door dropped down. She tripped, sliding to a halt just outside the door. Deepfreeze dropped to his belly, grabbed her arm, and hauled her in just as the door clanged shut. They could hear the phantoms wail slowly die off as they vanished with the darkness.

“Next time wait until I’m inside before you close the doors!” Sue gasped.

“Sorry but I couldn’t let those things in.” Deepfreeze replied, “Even if it meant locking you out.”

“Is that anyway to talk to an old girlfriend?” Sue smiled.

“You!” Deepfreeze shot, “Were never my girlfriend!”

“Look.” Sue said bowing her head, “I’m sorry for what I did but I had no choice. It was my life on the line.”

“Always looking out for number one.” Deepfreeze grumbled, “No matter who has to die.”

“You survived didn’t you?” Sue shrugged.

“I shouldn’t have!” Deepfreeze growled, “I just got lucky!”

He turned and walked away before Sue could reply. Lisa took position beside him and stood silent for a moment while he looked around. When they were far enough away from Sue, she tugged on his arm.

“What was that about?” She asked softly.

“Nothing.” Deepfreeze muttered.

Lisa nodded and decided it was a bad idea to push him for more. She started to check the lab for herself. It was large and rectangular with domed ceiling lights providing a bright but soft white light. The floor was covered with tables. Each table had a sample of a Ragol animal sitting on it. A computer was connected to them. There were samples from everything from the forest to the ruins, Gal Da Val Island, and even the artic. To the groups relief there were no subjects here only animal samples. Deepfreeze stopped at a table by the back wall. It held what looked like a finger made of pure salt. He bent over to read the computer screen. It was registering electrical impulses much like those found in the nervous system.

“Impossible.” Deepfreeze muttered, “It couldn’t have been alive.”

He heard a soft moan behind him. Deepfreeze spun around but saw only the wall. Lisa walked up beside him then looked at the wall too.

“What?” She shrugged.

“I thought…” Deepfreeze began.

They heard the moan again.

“That wasn’t a phantom.” Lisa said.

“No.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “It sounded like an android.”

Sue and Elenor came over to see what they had found. It moaned again.

“That sounds almost familiar.” Sue said.

“It does doesn’t it?” Deepfreeze replied.

“So how do we get in there?” Elenor asked, “I don’t see a card reader anywhere.”

“Most likely a hidden switch somewhere.” Deepfreeze said feeling the wall, “A card reader wouldn’t stop an individual that got this far.”

“Right if no one knows it exists no one can find it.” Elenor smiled.

Deepfreeze nodded then placed his ear against the door. His hand slowly slid up and down then back. He stopped on a small square panel that looked like an access panel to one of the ships power junctions.

“Hmm.” He said as he fingered it, “Very clever.”

“What?” Lisa asked.

“I think its booby trapped.” Deepfreeze replied.

“How do you know that?” Sue frowned.

“With the slightest pressure I can hear a switch start to trip.” Deepfreeze replied, “The door lock requires much more pressure to make it trip.”

“Really?” Sue asked.

“I’ve broken into enough places on this ship now to know a trapped door!” Deepfreeze growled, “This is a standard door lock!”

“Fine.” Sue sighed, “So how do we unlock it?”

Deepfreeze looked around then nodded at a painting. It was a portrait of Corals five greatest hero’s including Heathcliff Flowen. Each one was holding a long staff tipped by the same symbol found on the Ragol monuments. The first was red followed by white, blue, purple, and green. Deepfreeze carefully fingered each symbol. He could feel the seam running around each symbol.

“These symbols push in.” He said.

“OK so which one first?” Sue shrugged.

“If its chronological order then its blue, purple, green, red, and finally Flowen with white.” Elenor said.

“Maybe.” Deepfreeze said, “But my gut tells me it’s something else.”

“If we go by Ragol then its red, blue, and green.” Lisa said softly, “But what about the purple and white?”

“You might be onto something.” Deepfreeze pointed.

He stepped up to the painting and pushed the red symbol. There was a soft click but nothing else.

“From the forest to the caves.” He said pushing each symbol, “To the mines to unseal the door. Enter the door to face the darkness.”

He pushed the purple one then let his finger hover over the white.

“Step from the darkness into the light!” He finished.

“If you’re wrong.” Sue interrupted.

“Nothing may happen.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Or we may die!” Sue finished.

“Maybe.” Deepfreeze shrugged and pushed the symbol.

There was a single click then nothing. Deepfreeze tried pushing the symbols again but they remained in. He turned and shrugged. There was another click and the picture rotated to a new one. This was a picture of Flowen’s sword stuck in the floor of the disposal shaft on Gal Da Val Island.

“You’re kidding me!” Deepfreeze gasped staring at the new picture.

“What, what is it?” Lisa asked.

“This is a picture of Heathcliff Flowen’s sword after it was ejected from Olga Flow!” Deepfreeze replied, “Cerberus and I were the only ones there when Olga Flow died. The sword disintegrated soon after. No one else saw this scene and we told no one.”

“So how could some one paint a scene they never saw?” Elenor asked.

“Guys, look!” Sue called pointing to the back wall.

The panel Deepfreeze had found had opened up revealing a lever inside. Deepfreeze grabbed the handle and pulled. A door opened up beside him. Inside there was a single examination table. A bright spot light shone down from the ceiling. A purple HUcast was strapped to the table. He let out a deep moan.

“Kireek!” Sue exclaimed.

“I thought WORKS had him?” Deepfreeze said looking down at her.

“Mome said they had recovered him right after the artic disaster.” Sue replied, “My intelligence people said he was at that southern island facility.”

“Mome said that?” Deepfreeze frowned, “And yet he’s in Montague’s lab.”

“I don’t like where this is headed.” Elenor wined.

“Me either.” Deepfreeze said.

He slowly approached the table. Kireek turned his head and stared at him for a second then let out a high pitched scream. It startled him and made the girls all step back. The scream faded into incoherent rambling. A single screen sat at the head of the table. Deepfreeze studied the readings which appeared to be brain wave patterns. They were very erratic especially for an android.

“Looks like his mind is completely scrambled.” He said.

“I have to get him out of here.” Sue said.

She charged forward. Deepfreeze grabbed her around the waist and lifted her off the ground.

“That is a very bad idea.” He said softly, “There’s no telling what he’d do if he were free.”

“I can’t leave him here!” Sue nearly cried, “We need him!”

“We?” Lisa asked.

“Black Paper!” Sue replied, “He’s essential to regain our independence.”

“He can’t help anyone right now.” Deepfreeze said setting her down, “According to this he has no rational thought. He can’t think, he can’t reason, and he can’t be controlled.”

“No!” Sue yelled, “He’s our ticket to freedom, my freedom!”

“You’re a slave?” Lisa asked.

“She was created to serve Black Paper.” Deepfreeze replied softly, “Freedom was never designed for her.”

“Doesn’t mean I don’t long for it!” Sue started to cry.

This was the first time Deepfreeze had ever seen her breakdown. He felt sorry for the little Newman. No matter what she had done, to him, she didn’t deserve slavery. No one did. Then his logical mind and training kicked in.

“It could be a trick.” He thought. “She could be just using you, trying to manipulate your good nature.”

It was right of course. She had used his kindness to manipulate him which had lead to her betrayal.

“Sue, I’ll see what we can do to help.” He said, “I’m keeping my eye on you.”

“Good.” She smiled.

Any trace of pain and heartache was gone. It had been one of her little acts.

“However.” He said holding up a finger, “I’m not going to release Kireek and I won’t help Black Paper.”

“But.” Sue pouted.

“I’ll help you gain your personal freedom but nothing more.” Deepfreeze said flatly.

“The only way to help me is to help Black Paper.” Sue said placing her hands on her hips.

“Helping Black Paper still leaves you as their slave.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Not if my plan works.” Sue smirked.

“She’s planning on taking over!” Elenor gasped.

“It won’t work.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“How do you know?” Sue growled.

“No one in Black Paper will obediently follow someone they see as a slave.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “Once you’ve won your freedom fight everyone around you will turn on you so they can claim leadership.”

“He’s right.” Elenor nodded.

“Do you think Kireek would follow your command?” Deepfreeze said waving at the android.

“He’d beat me until I knew my place.” Sue shuddered.

“Now, someone tried accessing Olga from here.” Deepfreeze said, “See if you can find from where and who it was.”

Lisa quickly found a single computer terminal running with a connection to the ships network and direct links to Volt Opt and Olga. It was also equipped with a transceiver for remote access. The wireless link was equipped with a firewall making a trace all but impossible. Deepfreeze did a quick scan of the files. Volt Opt had received an upgrade program before every encounter with the Guardians teams. This was how he kept beating the hunters. Deepfreeze severed the link and deleted the location so establishing a new link would be difficult. He didn’t bother with Olga because it was no longer a threat. He was just about to access the research files when he heard the door open.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO

“You people shouldn’t be in here!”

They turned to see Doctor Montague looking very cross. Deepfreeze stepped forward. The girl’s coward behind him.

“This is quite the little operation.” Deepfreeze smirked.

“How did you get in here?” Montague asked.

“Simple access.” Deepfreeze said holding up the card.

“Where did you find that?” Montague frowned.

“Mome’s office.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Careless fool!” Montague growled.

“How did he get an access card to your lab?” Elenor asked.

“It’s his lab too.” Montague replied, “We were working with Ragols unusual photon energy together.”

“So you both were accessing Olga.” Deepfreeze pointed.

“Osto’s findings were important to the secret behind the D-cells.” Montague shrugged, “For some reason I can no longer access them.”

Deepfreeze just shrugged.

“What about those phantoms?” Lisa asked.

“Wonderful guards ha, ha!” Montague laughed, “Simple to control too. Grants to feed them, Megid to destroy them. I can increase or decrease their life energy by the level of my techniques. I found them trapped under Gal Da Val Island after the artic facility went up. Some of those caverns still exist.”

“What about the android eater and its bats?” Lisa asked nervously.

“That is truly a fascinating creature ha, ha!” Montague grinned.

“I don’t get it.” Deepfreeze frowned, “After all that’s happened why would you still be working with such dangerous evil?”

“That’s the main purpose of the Pioneer project.” Montague shrugged, “Osto was to set up the initial projects then Mome, Lazarus, and I along with a few other top scientists were to join him on Ragol. Unfortunately Dark Falz release kind of screwed things up.”

“No kidding.” Sue grumbled.

“We thought all was lost until Lazarus discovered a fully functioning and clear lab in the artic.” Montague explained, “He was suppose to just start our photon experiments but then he became obsessed with the power of the D-cells. When Mome and I discovered what he had been doing we ordered him to stop. Little did we know he had black mailed Black Paper into his service. We were powerless to stop him. After his death Mome got his hands on Lazarus files including the Black Paper material thanks to your Newman friend there.”

“What!” Sue gasped.

“You had Black Papers freedom in your hands and you just gave it away ha, ha!” Montague laughed.

“No!” Sue gasped dropping to her knees.

She turned very pale and looked ready to throw up.

“What about that painting.” Deepfreeze pointed, “Where did that come from?”

“Lazarus painted that.” Montague shrugged, “He, Mome, and I followed you and your android friend through the seabed facility. We were there when Olga Flow died. He provided some wonderful samples, ha, ha!”

“And the attack on Pioneer Two?” Lisa asked.

“My fault I’m afraid.” Montague sighed.

“NO!” Elenor gasped.

“Purely by accident.” Montague nodded, “One of my hobbies is contact with alien life. I scanned space for worlds that had potential for supporting life. To my delight one replied. I’m afraid in my over zealous joy with communicating to aliens I included details about Ragol and the Dark Force living beneath the surface.”

“You brought them here?” Deepfreeze gasped.

“Yes, and they are here for the D-cells.” Montague sighed, “I had no idea they’d be hostile. I just wanted to make first contact.”

“Have you seen them Doctor?” Elenor asked excitedly.

“Yes.” Montague nodded with a smile, “Very insect like with a living hive ship that appears to have vegetative qualities to it and a flesh hull.”

“Huh?” Sue frowned.

“It’s a giant animal plant.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Oh.” Sue nodded once.

“Their ship is actually growing into the ground and taking over the natural vegetation.” Montague said, “It’s most fascinating.”

“Doctor, this is not fascinating this is a potential danger!” Deepfreeze exclaimed, “What happens if they find Dark Falz. You know he’s still down there and he’s looking for a new body!”

“Now how would you know that?” Montague frowned.

“I have my sources.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Yes, we’ve had difficulty hiding this from your cloak and dagger operations.” Montague frowned.

“If you were part of all this then why did you help us stop Lazarus?” Lisa asked.

“I didn’t approve of his experiments.” Montague replied walking around Kireek’s table, “What he did was wrong no mater how you look at it. Then I found out Mome had taken over the southern facility. He wasn’t making any more mutants but he was still using the existing ones which is still wrong.”

“And you?” Sue growled.

“I continued with my animal experiments.” Montague shrugged, “And turned my focus to alien contact and photon research and development. Unfortunately the alien thing turned out to be a mistake as well.”

“It’s not too late to stop them.” Deepfreeze said.

“It’s not that simple.” Montague shook his head, “These creatures are very resistant to our weapons. I haven’t had a chance to test techniques yet but I have witnessed the ineffectiveness of our guns and swords.”

“Witnessed who?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Your friend Falcon and his team.” Montague smiled, “Don’t worry; they are safe ha, ha!”

“At least they are isolated on that island.” Sue said, “It should give us some time.”

“That depends if they have penetrated the facility yet.” Montague said.

“Then we had better find out.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“Kireek should be…” Lisa started looking over at the table.

Sue was messing with the lock controls. Lisa tugged on Deepfreeze’s arm and pointed at
the table.

“Sue no!” Deepfreeze yelled.

It was too late. The straps unbuckled and retracted Kireek slowly sat up and looked down at Sue. She stared up with a joyful face.

“You’re free Black Hound.” She grinned, “We need you to help free Black Paper.”

Kireek slid off the table and let out a roar. With a swing of his right arm he sent Sue flying against the wall. She hit with a thud then slumped to the ground. Kireek continued to mumble something incoherently as he slowly approached the little Newman. Deepfreeze was sure he meant to kill her.

“Kireek!” He yelled.

Kireek turned and stared at the ranger.

“Come and get me!” Deepfreeze called, “I know you recognize me. You want revenge. Come and get it!”

Kireek roared and charged. The others scattered. Deepfreeze drew his Ruby Bullet and fired. The shot caught Kireek in the shoulder. It made him stumble for a moment then he continued his charge. Deepfreeze side stepped him then stuck out his foot and tripped the android. It was just as Deepfreeze suspected. Kireek was running completely on rage. There was no battle tactics or training in this attack. It was pure hate and anger which made him very dangerous. Kireek jumped to his feet and charged again. Deepfreeze fired twice hitting him in the chest. The android jumped back and glared at the ranger for a moment before running out the door. Deepfreeze stowed his gun then turned to the others.

“Looks like he’s our top priority now.”

“Yes, he’s like a wounded animal now.” Montague nodded, “We can’t let him loose on the ship.”

“Come on Lisa!” Deepfreeze said as he ran off.

“Go with them Elenor.” Montague ordered, “I’ll take care of the Newman.”

Elenor nodded and followed the other rangers.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE


The metal walls of the facility had given way to rock. The temperature steadily increased as the three humans descended into the volcanoes belly. They started seeing the odd vine growing out of the rock and clinging to the wall. They were the same vines that were growing around the alien spacecraft. Striker didn’t seem to notice but Tessa was going ever more worried. The tunnel opened on to a vast cavern with a high dome ceiling. It most likely had been a magma chamber once. Several tunnels branched off in all directions. Some ran up toward the top while others angled down to the heart. Tessa figured these must be feed tubes that had supplied the chamber with hot magma. It was hot and humid in here but nothing to suggest they were in any kind of danger. Humidity meant there was a source of water nearby. Tessa hoped that was a good sign. Striker looked around then shrugged.

“So which one do we check first?” He shrugged.

“How about that one?” Devlin pointed with his good arm.

“Why that one?” Tessa asked.

“It’s the closest.” Devlin smiled, “And it looks like it leads back to the facility.”

“So?” Striker frowned slightly.

“Demoneye would try to circle around and return to the facility to rendezvous with us.” Devlin explained, “It’s his kind of strategy.”

“I didn’t know he had any strategy.” Striker mumbled.

“What?” Devlin asked.

“Nothing!” Striker snapped, “Let’s go!”

They entered the tunnel just as something screamed from the chamber. Devlin turned to see an alien charging at them. He let out a sharp yelp and fumbled for his hand gun. Striker pushed past him and stood with his Red Sword.

“Run!” He yelled.

Tessa grabbed Devlin's arm and dragged him up the tunnel. The alien reached Striker swinging its Talons wildly. Striker took a full swing. It didn’t do any damage but it did knock the alien back. Striker took a stab just as the alien reached out for him. The tip of the sword dug into the aliens palm and continued up the outstretched arm slicing it in half. Orange blood poured like water onto the cave floor. The alien screamed and retreated slightly before charging again. Striker swung again blocking the aliens attack. He tried a stab but the alien knocked the sword to the side. Striker was lucky it only had one arm or he would have been disembowelled right then and there. The alien tried to strike but Striker was able to pull his sword up for the block. The alien spun its rear around faster than Striker could react and grabbed his sword with its pincers. Using more force than Striker could ever dream of possessing, it wrenched the sword from his hands and flung it up with such force the handle drove into the rock. Striker jumped back and used the only viable weapon he had left. He threw his arm out and blasted it with Barta freezing the alien solid. Striker squeezed past the ice block and gave the end of his sword a kick with his boot. It didn’t move. He sighed and drew his hand gun. It quickly blasted away the surrounding rock. The sword fell to the floor with a loud clang. He picked up his weapon and heard a cracking sound. He looked down to see a stream of water flowing around his boot. Striker slowly turned to see the ice fall to pieces around the alien. It turned and growled, staring at him with its eyeless face. Striker shot it with Barta again. It didn’t even slow the creature down. It slowly stalked toward him. As it got closer it started to stumble with each step. Its destroyed arm continued to bleed. The alien let out one last wine and fell motionless on the ground. Striker slowly stepped up to it poking it with his sword. It didn’t move.

“You bleed to death awfully quickly don’t you?” He chuckled.

Yelps echoed up from behind him. More were on their way. Striker bolted up the hallway trying to catch the others. The rock floor turned back into metal plating. He heard a female scream as he rounded the corner. He entered another lab filled with work desks. Tessa was slowly backing away from an alien that was slowly stalking her. Devlin was no where to be seen. Striker charged, leaping onto a desk and skipped across three to try and catch the alien by surprise. He was greeted by an up swinging foot that sent him flying back. He crashed into the side of a desk knocking the wind from his lungs. Pain throbbed through his body. He gasped for air as his lungs slowly refilled. Tessa screamed again. The alien lunged at her with both talons stretched. She dove under a desk and crawled out the other side. She sprang to her feet and felt something clamp around her waist. The alien had snagged her with its pincers. It lifted her off the ground and started for the tunnel. Striker sprang up in front of it.

“Drop her right now!” He ordered.

The alien hissed and charged. Striker swung his sword. The alien blocked with its right then batted him away with its left. Striker crashed into another desk. He sprang to his feet before his brain could register the pain. The alien disappeared down the tunnel. Striker tried to chase after it but it was way too fast. He entered the large magma chamber and stopped. The alien and Tessa were gone. He called out her name but got no reply. She was gone and he had no idea were to start looking. He frantically looked around at each tunnel over and over again. Panic started to kick in. He didn’t know what to do and he couldn’t think straight.

“What do I do?” He started to mumble, “Where do I go? What should I do? HELP!”

A screech answered him. The aliens were coming and they were coming for him. Striker scurried up the tunnel and back into the facility. He quickly crossed the now trashed lab and was about to leave when he heard a soft painful moan. He slowly crossed the room to where the alien had attacked Tessa. There dying on the floor, torn to pieces was Devlin. With every breath his life slipped away. Striker knelt down beside him. He couldn’t even hold Devlin’s hand because it was lying on the floor where his feet should have been.

“Tried to protect her.” Devlin horsed.

“It’s not your fault.” Striker replied, “You tried, and that’s all that matters.”

“Failed.” Devlin coughed, “Failed her.”

“Yes but you fought with honour.” Striker said softly, “That’s important, and you’ll be remembered for it.”

Devlin nodded and drew his last breath. Striker got up and hurried out. He had to find Demoneye and Harris. He ran through two more lab pods with no sign of the two hunters. As he entered a third located near the summit he heard shots from a rifle. It was coming from an open fire door. Outside there was a dirt trail that ran up to the summit. Striker ran up the trail as fast as he could. Harris was at the top firing at an alien. His shots were having no effect. The alien was getting close enough to strike. It would have Harris before striker could get there. He gripped his sword and charged screaming. The alien turned to see its attacker. Harris turned and ran. The alien watched him go then turned to face Striker. He had wanted to distract the creature momentarily which had worked but he had also expected Harris to help not run away. Striker stopped and launched a Foie attack. The fire ball smashed into the creature’s chest. It halted with a screech. This allowed Striker to charge in using his sword like a lance. The tip pierced the aliens shell but a quick swing of its right arm prevented it from going deeper. Striker landed on his side. The edge of his sword sliced into his calf. He yelled out in pain. It had been so sudden and so intense he wasn’t able to keep his composer. The alien charged forward clenching its talons. The talons sprang open and the arms lunged at him. Striker tried to raise his sword but it was pinned beneath him. He watched helplessly as the creature came at him. Time seemed to come to a crawl as Strikers life was about to end. The sun was low in the sky, bright red and set behind the alien. It seemed to grow to a blinding light. He raised his arm to block the light. It seemed to move slowly as well. A large dark object stepped in front of Striker blocking him from the alien. Time resumed its normal speed. Striker climbed to his feet and cast Resta. He turned to face the battle. Demoneye was actually beating the creature back with his sabre. Striker hoisted his sword and attacked the side of the alien. It tried to kick him away but he blocked the foot then drove the sword into the alien’s side. It screeched then kicked him with its rear leg. Striker used the momentum to roll to his feet. A talon swung down catching him in the shoulder. Demoneye blocked the other talon then drove his sabre home. Striker ignored the claw tearing at his right shoulder and some how mustered enough strength with his left to plunge his sword into the creatures chest. The alien gurgled a screech then collapsed. Striker fell to his knees and the talon fell away leaving two large cuts in its path. Demoneye stepped up to him and glared down.

“How bad?” He finally asked.

“Nothing Resta can’t fix.” Striker grumbled.

“This may not be the time but you seem familiar to me.” Demoneye said.

“Probably saw me on the pioneer news.” Striker replied, “I beat the Lazarus monster you know.”

“Yes but that’s not it.” Demoneye shook his head, “Something from the past maybe. Oh well not important right.”

“Right.” Striker moaned as he stood up.

It took a lot of concentration to cast Resta. It healed him physically but now he felt mentally drained. He checked his pack but he only had his hand gun and a few packs of meat left.

“Say you wouldn’t happen to have any fluids on you?”

“No!” Demoneye growled.

“Didn’t think so.” Striker smirked.

“Come, we must find Black Hound!” Demoneye stated.

“What about Harris?” Striker asked.

“That coward can fend for himself!” Demoneye growled, “Where is your servant?”

“They captured her.” Striker replied, “We have to find her.”

“She is dead.” Demoneye said coldly, “Black Hound is all that matters now.”

“If Black Hound is being held here then chances are he’s been taken by these creatures!” Striker yelled, “We find the girl; we find Black Hound!”

Demoneye thought for a moment then nodded.

“You speak wisdom. Something I would not expect from a peasant.”

“You’ll find I’m full of surprises!” Striker growled.

Demoneye lead Striker back down to the lab pod. Striker wanted so badly to take a swing at the android. It would be easy to cut through his back severing his spinal cord and a few processors as well leaving him paralyzed on the ground. Striker would then stand over him and let him know who had beaten him and why. When the android remembered who he was, Striker would end his life. The only thing stopping him was Tessa. Striker needed Demoneye’s help to get her back.

“Bloody women.” Striker grumbled.

“What did you say?” Demoneye muttered.

“Nothing.” Striker replied.

“You peasants all ways talk a lot but never say anything.” Demoneye said thoughtfully, “You’re lucky you weren’t one of the ones living during our cleansing crusade. Many worthless fleshies were swept away that day. Shame we were not able to complete our quest.”

“What quest?” Striker frowned.

“The android inheritance of Coral.” Demoneye shrugged.

They past through the three labs and entered the tunnel back to the volcanoes interior. Demoneye continued his story but much quieter know.

“Humanity has long since passed its evolutionary existence date. That’s why Newman’s were created. The next step in evolution but man became afraid of what his offspring represented and there fore retarded the process so he could remain the dominant species. Evolution will not be held back so the android was created. Living machine designed after mans own image so it could learn from him and finally take its place as the dominate species. Once again man feared his own destiny and fought back delaying the universes great plan. The cosmos will sting you for that. One day we casts will take our rightful place.”

“You’re insane.” Striker muttered.

“What!” Demoneye snapped.

“Uh if this is true then why haven’t you wiped us out and taken over Ragol?” Striker asked.

“We do not have enough believers yet.” Demoneye replied, “When we do then we will take our rightful place.”

“I’ll keep my eyes open then.” Striker nodded.

“Don’t worry.” Demoneye grinned evilly, “Those who serve and aid us will be rewarded with a swift and painless death.”

“Thanks.” Striker muttered.

They entered the magma chamber. It was empty and very quiet. Demoneye scanned each tunnel then turned to Striker.

“Which tunnel did they enter?”

“I don’t know!” Striker snapped, “I can’t run as fast as them. They were gone by the time I got here!”

“You are not much help.” Demoneye growled.

“Let’s think this through.” Striker sighed, “We know they are heading deep underground so we can eliminate all the tunnels going up. That leaves six possible tunnels. I wouldn’t be surprised to find several connect lower down. In fact if these are feed tubes like I suspect then they should all end up at the same place.”

“The belly of the volcano!” Demoneye announced, “Move!”

Striker growled and headed for the tunnel directly across from him. Demoneye followed right on his heels. Striker stopped at the entrance. Hot humid air poured out. Striker wiped his brow, hoisted his sword and headed down. They followed the tunnel until it ended at a shaft. Striker examined the shaft walls carefully. It was full of holes and scratches from the alien’s claws as they climbed up and down. He looked down the shaft and saw flickering light similar to that of a flame. There was either fire burning or exposed lava. There was quite a bit of heat flowing up the shaft too.

“They went down there.” Striker pointed, “It’s been heavily traveled. I wish I had brought my climbing gear.”

“I can descend this.” Demoneye said.

“I can’t.” Striker shook his head.

“Then you don’t.” Demoneye replied.

“It’s not a good idea to split up.” Striker glared.

“I do not need assistance.” Demoneye growled, “I let you come because you were convenient. Only another android would be of any real use to me.”

“You are underestimating them.” Striker pointed, “You need my help.”

“Hardly!” Demoneye laughed, “Now out of my way human!”

He pushed past Striker and began climbing down the shaft. Striker watched until the android disappeared in the lower tunnel. He cursed the android then turned back to look for another way down. Three more tunnels also ended in vertical shafts. The fourth had a steep drop in it but with a little luck and a whole lot of skill, Striker managed to traverse the slope. The tunnel system was dark but small flames burning from gas vents in the walls provided just enough light to keep Striker from stumbling. He rounded a corner and froze. The sound of clicking claws echoed from ahead. He frantically looked around and said a quick prayer as he spotted a small crevice hidden in the shadows. He quickly squeezed in and deactivated the photon blade on his Red Sword. Two aliens crawled by on the ceiling. Striker held his breath until he was sure they were gone. He peered out and checked the tunnel before climbing out of the hole. He stowed the sword in its sheath on his back and crept deeper into the volcanoes interior. He heard more clicking and some growls. He ducked into a connecting corridor and bunkered down. Three chatty aliens walked by. Striker quietly slipped out and scurried down the tunnel. The aliens didn’t pursue him. Two close calls that he had managed to stay undetected. He was starting to fell quite proud of himself. He rounded a corner and ran into the back of an alien. It was carrying one of the test subjects from the lab. Striker jumped back and drew his sword. The alien twisted around and hissed at him. Striker clenched his sword ready for the attack. The alien turned and walked away. Striker lowered his sword and scratched his head.

“That was weird.” He frowned.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR

Striker slowly followed the tunnel down until it ended at a giant chamber full of flowing rivers of lava. Aliens were scurrying about. There were several tunnels leading into this chamber from the same wall that Striker stood against. Only one on the far side didn’t have lava flowing out of it. A steady line of aliens were entering the cave and exiting. Each one exiting was carrying a giant bolder that they would drop into one of the rivers then line up again. They were digging a tunnel but to where, Striker didn’t know. He spotted an alien to his far left and entered a solitary tunnel that angled up every so slightly. He cautiously entered the tunnel making it half way when several aliens burst out of a tunnel screeching. This stirred the others to action and within seconds the whole cave was going nuts. Striker started to back away. Two alien bodies flew out of the tunnel. They had been torn to pieces. Demoneye charged out swinging his sabre. He tore into the closest alien making short work of it. Striker stood in awe of him. For the moment it appeared that he really didn’t need any help. Every alien that charged at him found a sabre stabbed into their chest then torn out the side. Demoneye moved faster then any android Striker had ever seen. He had obviously received some upgrades recently. Demoneye took out several more before the hoard finally overcame him. The aliens piled on top. Android parts went flying. The aliens slowly went back to their tasks leaving android pieces scattered everywhere. Demoneye looked like he had been through a shredder. Striker dropped his sword and fell to his knees. His personal quest was over just like that. He felt cheated. He had vowed to restore his family honour by making these androids pay but instead they died in battle like soldiers. A tear fell from his good eye. They were the lowest form of scum. They didn’t desire this kind of death. Anger welled up inside of him. He found himself crying not from sorrow but from rage. If he couldn’t have revenge on the androids then he’d take revenge on the androids killers. He picked up his sword and climbed to his feet. He was about to charge at the aliens but he saw Tessa standing in front of him staring disapprovingly.

“Don’t be stupid.” She said, “Getting your self killed now won’t help any one. Don’t let the old Striker control you. Use your head. You promised to keep me safe.”

Striker shook his head and Tessa was gone. She was right of course. He had to be smart. If he died now so did she. He had to find her. He cautiously made his way to the cave. Twice he nearly ran into an alien. Twice the aliens simply hissed at him then continued on their way. Striker couldn’t figure out why they now ignored him like he wasn’t important. It was like they no longer saw him as a threat or they had found something more important. Striker stopped at the tunnel entrance. He could see more of the alien vines growing out of the walls. The cover became heavier farther down the tunnel. Striker quickly found himself walking on the vines as he proceeded down the tunnel. The tunnel ended with a small cavern. The cave was blanketed in vines. Several scientists and test subjects were wrapped in vines hanging from the walls. Only their heads were left uncovered. Striker looked around and spotted Tessa on the far wall. He hurried over to her and touched her cheek. It was still warm.

“Tessa.” He said softly, “Tessa wake up.”

She moaned and slowly opened her eyes. Striker was beaming at her.

“Thank goodness you’re alright!”

“Striker!” She smiled, “Get me outa here!”

He nodded then spotted Tessa’s combat knife lying on the ground. He scooped it up and began to cut through the vines. The whole room started moving. The vines came alive like a can of worms. Striker stowed the knife and drew his sword. With two careful swings Tessa was free. The squirming became more violent making it difficult for the humans to walk. Tessa tripped and fell. The vines began to wrap around her legs.

“Striker!” She called, “Help!”

Striker spun around and with a mighty chop of his sword, freed the girl. He hauled her to her feet and dragged her along. They rushed into the tunnel, making it halfway. Three aliens stood blocking the path. Striker gripped his sword. One he could deal with. Three was impossible. Tessa squeezed his arm.

“What do we do?” She asked.

“Do you know any techniques?” He asked.

“I’m not a hunter.” Tessa shook her head.

“Didn’t think so.” Striker sighed.

The aliens held their talons up ready to grab the humans. Striker readied for the attacks.

“Fire in the hole!” Some one yelled.

A small metal object flew from behind the aliens. It exploded over them releasing a purple cloud. The aliens twitched and snorted then started attacking each other.

“Confuse trap!” Striker cried, “Run!”

He dragged Tessa forward strafing to the right to avoid a swinging talon. They squeezed up against the wall ducking and jumping the fast moving legs. Striker squeezed free then pulled Tessa out just as an abdomen crashed into the rock. Striker let out a deep breath then went to thank his rescuer. Harris stood grinning at them.

“You!” Striker pointed.

“I felt guilty about leaving you to fight that alien after you helped me.” Harris shrugged.

“I’m still mad at you for that.” Striker frowned, “But I’m glad you came back.”

“Guys.” Tessa interrupted pointing at the aliens, “Time to go!”

The effects of the trap had worn off. The aliens stood for a moment trying to figure out what had happened. One looked over at the humans and growled.

“Busted.” Striker muttered.

The trio bolted for the nearest tunnel. A screech went out calling everyone in the cavern. Aliens from every direction poured on their position. Striker drew his hand gun and blasted the tunnel entrance as soon as the others past through. The rock sealed the entrance way but with the alien’s strength it wouldn’t stay that way for long. They hurried up the tunnel as quickly as their legs would carry them. They could hear the aliens in the nearby tunnels as they raced to the joining cavern ahead. The humans had to beat them there or they’d never survive. Harris was in the lead but came to a skidding halt.

“What are you doing?” Striker shouted.

“The tunnel ends here.” Harris replied.

Striker stopped beside Harris and looked up. It was one of the shafts he had encountered earlier. There was no way to climb up. Sounds of claws and growling echoed up from behind them.

“They’ve broken through the block.” Tessa sighed.

“What do we do?” Harris quivered, “What do we do?”

Striker drew his sword and activated the photon blade. The glow from the energized metal bathed everything in a red aura. Striker stepped in front of the others and took a defensive stance ready for the charge.

“Take as many as we can.” He growled.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE

The jungle became denser the deeper they went. The vegetation was changing too. It was becoming more and more vine like. These sickly green vines were very different from anything Falcon had seen before. He wasn’t sure but he almost suspected that they could move. Once or twice he swore he saw one wind its way up a tree but when he looked at it, it stopped. The ground had a gentle down ward slope and its moister content was slowly growing as well. Sahara had no trouble following him but the other two girls were falling behind. Falcon finally stopped to let them catch up.

“Thank you.” Nikki puffed, “I swear these vines are trying to slow us down.”

“Must be your imagination.” Falcon grumbled.

“Now Falcon, you have to admit they are very strange.” Sahara replied, “And I think I’ve actually seen them move.”

“I’m no expert but I’m pretty sure these things aren’t from Ragol.” Crystal said.

“You suspect they came from that alien vessel.” Falcon frowned.

“I do.” Crystal nodded.

“I agree.” Falcon said and continued on.

The ground finally levelled out with a thick wall of vines blocking their path. Falcon drew his Yamato and quickly cut a hole. Inside was a clearing domed by the vines. At the center lay the egg shaped space craft. All around it the vines had formed a hard smooth carpet. Falcon cautiously stepped in. The girls slowly followed. Nikki was the last one. The vines closed the hole behind her.

“Hey!” She cried spinning around.

Falcon turned and glared at her. She shrugged and pointed at the wall.

“They sealed us in!”

“So the vines do move.” Sahara said rubbing her chin, “This does not speak well for us.”

“I don’t see any aliens.” Crystal said holding her Summit Moon tight with both hands.

“That is were our answer lays.” Falcon pointed at the ship with a Yamato.

The group slowly closed in on the craft. They found an open hatch at the large end. Falcon slowly stepped inside listening for any sign of danger.

“I hate to admit it.” He said softly to Sahara, “I could really use that Newman’s sharp hearing right now.”

“Who?” Sahara frowned, “Amanda!”

Falcon said nothing, He continued on with out even looking at her.

“You like her.” Sahara beamed, “My big tough brother is finally starting to warm up.”

“Keep this quiet woman!” Falcon growled.

Sahara just laughed and patted his shoulder.

“What’s so funny?” Crystal frowned.

“What’d we miss?” Nikki asked.

“Nothing!” Falcon snapped.

The girls frowned at each other then giggled. Falcon let out a soft growl and continued around the corner. The ship was composed of winding twisted tunnels that didn’t seem to lead any where. Falcon finally stopped at another Tee junction. Sahara stopped beside him. She checked both corridors then shrugged.

“No aliens here either.”

“This isn’t getting us anywhere.” Falcon growled.

“These tunnels are all composed of those vines.” Crystal said, “If they can move as well as the ones out side then it’s possible they are changing these tunnels to keep us away from any vital areas.”

“You seem awful smart for a receptionist.” Falcon shot.

“That’s just a job.” Crystal shrugged, “I wasn’t making any money as a hunter. Besides I don’t do that much any more.”

“Leave her alone Falcon.” Sahara said.

Falcon shot Sahara an angry scowl.

“So how do we solve this vine problem?” Nikki asked.

“Same way we solved it before.” Falcon growled.

He took three mighty swings. A square section of the wall fell to the floor in a large clump. Falcon stood looking very proud of him self. Sahara and Crystal stepped through the opening. Nikki stopped beside Falcon.

“I’ve never seen any one put a plant in its place quite like you.” She smiled.

Falcon growled. Nikki giggled and ran through the hole. Falcon shook his head then followed his team. He sliced through the next wall and then the next. He continued this until they reached the mid point of the ship. He stepped up to the wall in front of him and made two vertical cuts. On his horizontal cut just above his head he felt his katana hit something solid. His Yamato cut through with very little effort but it was definitely different then cutting plants. The vines fell with a hard thump. Blood was dripping from the top of the door way. Sahara let a drop fall on her finger. She did a quick analysis and turned to the others.

“It’s human.” She said solemnly.

“What did you do?” Crystal gasped.

Falcon stepped through the door to set what he’d hit. The top section of a human male still hung wrapped in vines. Falcon had got him right through the chest. The man was still dressed in his lab coat. Sahara stepped through and stopped shaking her head slowly. She wasn’t looking at Falcon’s victim. Nikki came through next. She squeezed by so the blood wouldn’t drip on her. She turned around and let out a yelp.

“What is it now?” Falcon grumbled turning to her

There was a Newman female FO hanging directly in front of her. The collar of her lab coat was sticking up out of the vines. Crystal stepped through next and gasped as she looked around.

“Who are they?” She asked.

“Lab workers.” Falcon said, “The facility has been compromised.”

“This is very bad.” Sahara shook her head, “If they found the experiments or worse the D-cell samples.”

“Do we even know these are from Lazarus’ lab?” Nikki asked.

“Yes.” Crystal replied.

She was standing in front of one of the cross mutated creatures hanging on the wall. The flesh parts were mummified. Some of the android components appeared to have been torn out. There was a huge hole in its belly. Some fluid lines and wires hung silently. The others stopped and stared at it.

“Lazarus did get his work out.” Falcon grumbled, “So who was running the show?”

“What do you think happened to him?” Nikki whispered to Crystal.

“My guess.” Crystal shrugged, “Eaten.”

Nikki let out a soft whimper. Falcon turned and followed the bodies down the corridor. His team followed checking each person as they went.

“Shouldn’t we be getting these people out?” Nikki asked at last.

“On our way out.” Falcon replied, “I can not guarantee their safety if we release them now.”

“Hopefully no one will eat them before we get back.” Crystal muttered.

Sahara pulled into the lead then stopped. She was waving them over. Falcon rushed up to her.

“What?”

“Recognize him?” Sahara asked pointing at the body.

Crystal gasped. “It’s Doctor Mome!”

“He’s the lead man?” Nikki frowned.

“He got away from me but not them.” Falcon smirked.

“I’ll cut him down.” Sahara said, “Maybe he can supply us with some answers.”

She drew a dagger and carefully cut Mome loose. He fell to the ground with a thud.

“Falcon!” Sahara scolded.

“What?” Falcon shrugged.

“You were supposed to catch him.” Sahara frowned.

“The bump will do him good.” Falcon replied.

Mome groaned and sat up.

“See.” Falcon smiled, “He’s fine.”

“Don’t get smug.” Sahara waved a finger.

“What happened?” Mome grumbled.

“We were hoping you could tell us.” Crystal said crossing her arms.

Mome looked around for a moment then jumped to his feet. He looked absolutely terrified. He looked back and forth watching each corridor while mumbling some thing.

“Doctor?” Sahara said.

Mome didn’t appear to have heard her.

“Doctor!” Falcon shouted.

Mome snapped to attention.

“What is going on here?” Falcon asked.

“I’m not sure but I think most of my staff is here.” Mome sputtered, “I think they are eating us. Did you see the drained bodies?”

Every one nodded.

“They did that.” Mome pointed.

“How many are there?” Sahara asked.

“I have no idea!” Mome snapped, “I’ve been strapped to a bloody wall!”

“Maybe if we find the bridge we’ll get some answers.” Crystal said.

“That’s assuming there is a bridge.” Mome said.

“What do you mean?” Falcon growled.

“In case you haven’t noticed but this is a living ship.” Mome frowned, “It may not need a bridge.”

“Can’t hurt to look.” Sahara shrugged.

“Yes it can.” Mome snapped, “It can kill you.”

“Shut up!” Falcon growled, “Or I’ll put you back on the wall!”

“Yes um.” Mome whimpered.

“Better.” Falcon nodded.

He looked down each corridor then started down the one in front of him. The others shrugged and followed. The line of bodies thinned out the farther they went. The frequency of mummified and mutilated bodies increased as well. The light started to increase and they began to hear growling and hissing. There were aliens ahead and it sounded like a lot of them. Falcon signalled for his group to halt then proceeded alone. The corridor ended in a giant chamber. Falcon quietly peered inside. It was round and domed just like the cover surrounding the ship. The floor was covered in what could only be giant pods. A giant alien was stuck to the far wall. In fact its body actually grew into the wall becoming the vines. Several of the smaller aliens were crawling all over it and cutting parts of it away from the wall. The giant alien started heaving and vomited a pod. One of the aliens quickly collected it then carried it off through another corridor. Falcon frowned then hurried back to the others.

“Falcon what…” Sahara began.

“That is not the way to the bridge.” He shook his head, “I think I found the mother alien.”

“What!” Crystal gasped.

“It looks like they are moving it.” Falcon said.

“We have to stop them.” Sahara said, “If they get loose on the planet.”

“Relax; they are trapped on this island.” Falcon waved, “And there are too many for us to handle alone. I hate to say this but we should get the civilians out first.”

“It is our duty as Guardians of Pioneer.” Nikki tapped her badge.

“Indeed.” Falcon grumbled.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY SIX

Falcon slowly turned and headed back down the corridor. There was nothing he wanted to do more then rush into that room with swords swinging and take out every last alien but that would be suicide and if there was one thing he hated more than walking away from a fight it was dying. They freed as many living people as they could find choosing to leave all the experiments behind. Mome had insisted they were far too dangerous in their undeveloped stages. Falcon had seen first hand what these things were capable of and didn’t wish to face them again. The old holes he had cut had grown over so he and his team quickly cut new ones. They couldn’t find the hatch they had entered earlier forcing Falcon to make a new one. This caused the entire ship to shudder.

“I think we just got their attention.” Sahara said.

“Indeed.” Falcon grumbled, “Take the lead and cut every one an exit.”

She rushed out the hole and over to the vine wall. Falcon quickly waved everyone out. Sahara made an exit hole then led everyone back towards the beach. When half of them had gone, Crystal exited to provide mid point protection. Nikki went after the last scientist followed by Falcon who saw three aliens closing in on them.

“Run!” He yelled.

Everyone started pushing through the hole which actually slowed things down. Nikki tried to regain order but panic had set in. Falcon backed up to the group ready for the attack. Nikki continued to jump and yell but she was lost in the group. No one paid any attention to a teenager during the best of times; they surely weren’t going to pay attention to one now. The aliens filed out of the hole and let out a blood curdling screech that made everyone freeze. They turned and stared. The lead alien barked and charged. The group screamed and began pushing again preventing anyone from getting away. Nikki pushed as hard as she could but the aliens got to the group before she could reach Falcon. Falcon met the lead the alien head on while the other two tore into a couple of scientists. This caused the group to disperse. Nikki intercepted another alien before it could grab a young Newman woman HU leaving the third to chomp down on an older human male. Some of the scientists double backed and escaped out the hole. The loose alien quickly moved around to block the hole until it grew over. Falcon blocked a swing then took a stab. The alien twisted out of the way then swung down knocking Falcon to his back. The alien thrust its talons forward. Falcon quickly crossed his Yamato to block the attack. He kicked up catching the alien in its second segment. He heard a distinctive crack and hoped it was the aliens shell and not his leg. The alien yelped and slashed. Falcon twisted his blade up so the alien caught his tip right in the palm. The blade tore into the talon. The alien instinctively retracted its arm doing even more damage. Falcon quickly jabbed with the other piercing the shell in the alien’s chest. It grabbed Falcon with its good arm digging its talon deep into his chest. Damage messages flooded his mind. He ignored them and drove his other Yamato into the creature’s chest. It let out a squeal and began pulling out his chest plate. The metal crunched as it started to tare free. Falcon pulled a katana free then drove it up through the alien’s skull. It let out one last gurgle and fell on top of him. His internal systems were registering a fluid leak. He pushed the alien off and sat up. A small stream of clear red hydraulic fluid was leaking from one of the talon holes. It wasn’t urgent and his self repair system should be able to handle it. Nikki screamed as her alien grabbed her by the upper arm. It lifted her off the ground then tilted its head at her.

“Let me down!” She yelled swinging her sabre.

Falcon jumped to his feet and charged. The other alien flew past him chasing a couple of scientists. Falcon knew he should help them but his team mates came first. The alien didn’t see him until it was too late. Falcon drove the tip of his katana into the aliens fore arm. It dropped Nikki then swung around catching Falcon in the chest. Nikki leapt to her feet and drove her sabre into the aliens exposed side. It kicked her away with a foreleg. She jumped up and cast Zonde. The alien spasm then stepped back. Falcon charged forward plunging one katana into its arm pit and the other into the alien’s forward hip joint. The limbs spasm then stopped functioning. Nikki rushed forward dodging a swinging talon which Falcon intercepted. She grabbed her sabre and pulled it free. Falcon grabbed the alien by the wrist and refused to let go. The alien lifted him off the ground and began swinging him around. Nikki ducked as Falcon flew over her head. She came up driving the sabre into its chest. The alien dropped Falcon and took a swing at Nikki. She jumped back and blasted it with Zonde. The bolt of electricity bounced of the creatures shell.

“Crap.” She spat.

Falcon charged driving both blades into the creatures third section then pulled down slicing it open. The alien took a couple of steps then collapsed. The hunters turned to deal with the last one. It had taken out half of the trapped scientists. Falcon counted eleven remaining. Pieces of bodies were spread everywhere. The alien was closing in on three who were huddled up against the ship.

“You cut a new exit hole and get these people out!” Falcon ordered, “I’ll deal with him.”

Nikki nodded and took off for the remaining group of scientists. Falcon bolted for the alien. He reached it just as it tore into another scientist. Within seconds she was nothing more than a pile of blood and flesh. Falcon jumped onto the creatures back driving a Yamato blade into its top section. He stepped up on the hilt and drove the second blade into the top of the alien’s skull.

“Run for the exit!” He yelled.

The two remaining scientist ran as fast as their legs would carry them. Nikki waved them forward as the others filed out. The alien slowly slumped to the ground with Falcon still on its back. He pulled his blades out and nodded feeling quite proud. He heard something to his right. Slowly he turned his head and came face to face with three aliens who had their heads sticking out of a hole. Falcon slowly backed away. The aliens crawled out of the hole followed by three more.

“Falcon run!” Nikki called.

Falcon wanted to fight but dying was not on his agenda today. He cursed to himself then turned and ran. The aliens charged after him. He fixed himself on Nikki and the exit. The aliens were right on his heals. Nikki stepped through the hole and waited. To their horror the hole started to close. Nikki raised her sabre to chop back the growth but a deep hiss behind her stopped her cold.

“No, please no.” She prayed.


They hadn’t gotten very far when Crystal noticed the others weren’t with them. She stopped and looked back. There were only ten scientists behind her. They quickly ran by. She waited but the others didn’t follow.

“Sahara!” She called.

Sahara halted the group and ran back to see what was wrong.

“Nikki and Falcon are missing.” Crystal explained, “Some of the scientists are missing too.”

“Get everyone back to the beach.” Sahara ordered, “I’ll go back for them.”

Sahara disappeared into the bush. Crystal turned and waved everyone forward. The beach seemed so far away and she could hear barking from the few aliens that were nearby. She expected an attack at any moment. She ran until she could hear the waves ahead. Maybe they’d make it after all. Two aliens jumped out in front of her. She instinctively cast Gibarta freezing them solid.

“Run!” She screamed.

All but three ran to the beach. They took up positions beside her. Two were human males and one was a male Newman.

“What are you doing?” She cried.

“We’re forces too.” The Newman replied, “We’re going to help you get to the beach.”

“Thank you but…” Crystal started.

The ice shattered as the creatures broke free. Crystal blasted them again with no effect.

“I don’t get it.” She frowned, “That’s my most powerful element.”

“Let’s try some fire.” One human force said.

He stepped forward with the Newman at his side. The aliens howled and moved closer. The forces cast Rafoie. Two large explosions erupted around the aliens. They screamed as their bodies turned charcoal black.

“Good job Tony.” The Newman smiled.

“Thank you Francisco.” Tony bowed.

The aliens snarled and took a step forward.

“Uh oh.” The forces said and stepped back.

“Time for Jackson to shine.” The last man said.

He blasted them Gizonde. It hardly fazed them.

“This is bad.” Jackson said stepping back.

“What do we have left?” Tony asked.

“Grants and Megid.” Francisco replied.

“I hate Megid.” Crystal quivered, “All that hate and death always leaves me feeling cold inside.”

“Grants it is.” Jackson nodded.

The four forces targeted the lead alien. Four light blasts erupted from the creature. It let out a horrific wail and collapsed. The forces did it twice more. The last alien just shook it off then continued toward them.

“One left.” Tony pointed, “We’ll have to Megid it.”

“No.” Crystal sighed, “Not that!”

“Sorry girl.” Francisco said gripping her shoulder, “Time to ball up all those bad feelings into one ugly ball.”

Crystal closed her eyes and reached deep down inside searching for the hate filled evil force that slept in every one. Fortunately for Crystal hers wasn’t very big. Unfortunately this meant her Megid was a fairly low level. She bundled up every nasty feeling; every evil thought she ever had.

“Now!” Jackson shouted.

Crystal threw her arm out. A big purple ball launched from her palm. It hit the alien along with three others. The alien yelped and fell dead. Crystal shivered from the cold that passed through her soul.

“To the beach.” She said.

They scurried out onto the sand where the others were already filing into a telepipe. Crystal waited until the last person stepped in then turned and ran as fast as she could.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

“No, please no.” Nikki prayed.

The alien took a swing. Nikki closed her eyes and raised her arm waiting for the strike. It never came. She looked up to see Sahara dead locked with the creature.

“Sahara.” Nikki smiled.

“Get that hole open!” Sahara barked.

Nikki turned and quickly slashed the vines back. Falcon burst through the opening leaving a small metal object floating in the opening. Nikki jumped back just as the freeze trap exploded. The entire door way was sealed with ice. Sahara pushed the alien back then swung at its chest. It blocked her attack but could do nothing about Falcon and Nikki. They plunged their weapons into the creature’s sides. It let out a wail as it slumped to the ground. Falcon nodded with approval.

“Now Doctor.” He began turning to face the doctor, “Hey where’s Mome?”

The others looked around the shrugged.

“He wasn’t with the other scientists.” Crystal said.

“Do you think he’s one of the piles of flesh in there?” Nikki shivered.

“No, he came through the hole after me.” Crystal replied, “He disappeared when Sahara came back for you. I’m sure of that.”

“Then he must have headed to the facility.” Falcon grumbled, “Let’s go.”

The top of the vine dome peeled open. The hunters turned to watch as the giant alien climbed out. Two large wings unfolded from its back. They were transparent and full of wrinkles and holes. They were in no shape for carrying their owner very far. With three large flaps the creature lifted off and turned to the volcano. It sped away with amazing speed coming to a rest on the volcanoes rim. It let out one giant screech then crawled inside. The hunters stood silent for a moment.

“This is starting to make sense.” Crystal said breaking the silence.

“Please, fill us in.” Falcon growled.

“Did you see how old that thing looked?” Crystal asked.

“Not really.” Nikki shrugged.

“The wings.” Crystal pointed to the volcano.

“They were very beaten up!” Sahara nodded.

“For a queen creature like that who spends most of its life in the nest, it takes years of wear to get like that.” Crystal explained.

“How many years?” Sahara asked.

“For something that big?” Crystal frowned, “Hundreds.”

“If it sets up a new nest we might never get rid of this thing!” Nikki gasped.

“Right.” Crystal nodded.

“Then we must kill it!” Falcon announced, “Forward!”

Nikki and Crystal rolled their eyes and followed their leader through the jungle. The front doors of the facility had been pried open. Claw marks were everywhere. Tire marks ran down the center of the hallway along with a trail of drying orange liquid. They could hear aliens barking deep within the facility. Falcon headed to his right following the tracks and liquid. The vehicle was parked in front of the door. The trail of liquid ran under the door. There was a couple of claw marks in the door which told Falcon an alien had forced the doors open. He hit the door switch. It slid open. Nikki let out a soft gasp. Lying at the far door was a dead alien.

“This is a good sign.” Sahara nodded.

“Indeed, the driver did not die here.” Falcon mumbled.

They hurried down the tunnel and into the lab. Falcon past through it without looking at anything. The others were a little slower. The next room contained stasis tubes from Lazarus facility. Everyone was broken and empty. They continued on until they found a corridor that lead to the volcanoes interior. Falcon stopped to listen for danger before heading down. They entered a large chamber with several tunnels leading away. Falcon studied each one the chose the first tunnel on his right that lead down. They started down the tunnel when they heard several alien screams.

“This isn’t such a good idea!” Nikki blurted.

Some one in the tunnel started yelling something. He was answered by another. The voices were distorted but audible. Falcon bolted down the tunnel with his team right behind him. He stopped at a shaft. He could see a human ranger and a woman standing at the bottom.

“Hey, need some help?” Falcon called.

The two humans looked up.

“Falcon?” Striker replied poking his head up.

“You!” Falcon glared.

“If it’s not too much trouble, we could use a lift!” Striker said.

“Falcon, if you lower me and Nikki down we should be able to reach them.” Sahara said.

Falcon nodded. Sahara grabbed Nikki by the ankles and Falcon grabbed her. He quickly lowered them down.

“Climb on.” Nikki waved.

Everyone quickly grabbed tight around her body.

“Hey watch what you’re grabbing!” She scolded Striker.

“Sorry.” He smiled and released his grip on her chest.

He couldn’t see Tessa’s glare but he could feel the anger. Four aliens came storming down the tunnel.

“Up please.” Nikki squeaked.

Falcon hoisted them up just as a talon flew at her head. They scrambled to their feet and Strikers group started to run.

“Where are you going?” Falcon called.

“Run!” Striker called back.

Falcon shrugged and looked down the shaft. Several aliens were climbing up. Too many for them to fight.

“Run!” He barked.

He took off at full speed. The girls weren’t quite as fast as the androids but managed to catch up to the other humans. They didn’t stop until they reached the top lab pod where they could seal the doors. The androids waited for the humans to catch their breath.

“What are you guys doing here?” Striker puffed.

“We were sent to investigate this ship.” Sahara replied, “It attacked Pioneer Two.”

“I thought you were up in the north hunting those androids?” Falcon glared.

“I followed them here.” Striker replied.

“Wait, you wanted to kill Dirge and Demoneye?” Harris gasped, “Why?”

“They murdered my family when I was a child.” Striker growled.

“And his eye.” Tessa pointed.

“I understand.” Harris nodded, “I’m sorry you never got to avenge your family.”

“What does he mean?” Crystal asked.

“The aliens killed them.” Striker muttered.

“Oh.” Crystal replied looking away.

“You’re obviously a RAmar.” Sahara said to Harris.

“Alexander Harris.” Harris bowed, “Of Black Paper.”

Everyone turned and stared at him.

“I’m guessing no one here likes Black Paper.” Harris cringed.

“It’s been our job to put you out of one.” Nikki replied tapping her badge.

“Guardians.” Harris sighed, “Just my luck.”

“That’s not important right now.” Striker spoke up, “We have a common enemy now. We need to worry about them not who’s criminal and who’s not.”

“He’s right.” Sahara nodded, “And who is she?”

“This is Tessa.” Striker said, “She’s been surviving in the artic ever since she got lost. Get this, she’s from Pioneer One.”

“Really.” Crystal smiled, “There’s so much I need to ask you.”

“Don’t bother.” Striker waved, “She doesn’t know anything.”

“I got lost right after we arrived.” Tessa shrugged.

“Oh.” Crystal sighed, “Never mind.”

“The mother alien just landed here from the ship.” Falcon announced, “We have to take it out before she can establish a new nest.”

“It’s more complicated than that.” Striker shook his head.

“What do you mean?” Sahara frowned.

“These guys are tunnelling some where.” Striker said, “I checked the positioning map on my arm pad and they are tunnelling in the direction of the Central Dome.”

“They can’t dig that far.” Crystal shook her head, “My guess would be they are digging a new nest.”

“May be the lab can help.” Falcon said tapping his communicator, “Elly, Elly come in.”

He was greeted with static.

“Great, we’ve lost contact with the ship.” He muttered.

“This is becoming a very annoying trend.” Striker grumbled.

“That queen thing can fly right?” Nikki said.

“She’d never make the distance with her wings.” Crystal replied.

“Ya but what about a new queen?” Nikki shrugged.

“If they start a new nest here they could birth a new queen.” Crystal nodded, “Or several queens.”

“Which would spread across Ragol like a plague.” Sahara gasped.

“We can’t take all those things on by our selves!” Striker gasped.

“The telepipe still works on the beach.” Crystal said, “If we go back we could get help.”

“It’s all we got.” Sahara said turning to her brother.

“Let’s go.” Falcon nodded.

Nikki started to open the hatch when she spotted two aliens pass by the door in the next lab. Three more followed the first two. She quickly locked the door and spun around.

“Maybe we should wait until it dies down a little first.”

Falcon stepped up to the door and peered through the small window spotting the group of aliens in the next lab. He turned and sighed.

“We will wait here until they lose interest.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT


Gal Da Val Island was just as Cerberus had left it. The mountain air was crisp and fresh. The warm sun shone down on the small group making them feel better than they should. Lisa had come here hunting Del Spiders but most of their activity had moved to the seaside area. The transporter had brought them directly to the mountain area instead of the Central Control Area. Cerberus assumed the attack must have damaged the transporter. In the distance he could see a Gibbles watching over his Ul Gibbons. He counted seven Ul Gibbons and suspected more were nearby. The trouble was they were sitting right were Cerberus needed to take his team. He signalled his team forward. Amanda and Aphrodite followed with HitmanJ talking up the rear. Cerberus stopped at a thick patch of bushes.

“Keep an eye on Gibbles.” He said, “I’m going to snipe the Gibbons.”

“He his not going to like that.” HitmanJ replied.

“I know.” Cerberus sighed.

He aimed his Justy and carefully started taking head shots. After the third one went down the whole group went nuts.

“Blast!” Cerberus cursed lowering his weapon.

“I think we’ve been spotted.” Aphrodite pointed.

Gibbles came charging right at them. The hunters ran as he leapt into the air. Gibbles landed with a crash. Cerberus turned and fired. Aphrodite blasted him with Foie. Amanda jumped on his back digging her daggers in deep. It was messy but she was digging for his spine. Gibbles spun swinging a massive fist at HitmanJ. Amanda went flying off. HitmanJ dove to the side then let loose with his mechguns. Gibbles fist was blasted to a fleshy pulp. He let out a massive roar. Amanda climbed to her feet and was instantly jumped by an Ul Gibbon. It thrashed at her back. She tried to roll away but it had one hind leg on the nape of her back. She cried for help. Aphrodite turned to help her friend only to be knocked on her back by a Zol Gibbon. Cerberus aimed and fired. The Ul Gibbon collapsed on top of Amanda. Gibbles jumped again landing on Cerberus. His right knee snapped as the massive weight pounded him into the ground. HitmanJ fired again. A Zol Gibbon spit a stream of Zonde at him. He fell flat on his face unable to move. Aphrodite quickly climbed to her feet only to be knocked down again.

“Oh that is it!” Aphrodite screamed.

She jumped to her feet and threw out her arm. A purple ball shot from her palm. The Zol Gibbon fell dead. Aphrodite stood for a minute breathing heavily.

“I did it!” She gasped, “I did Megid, and it worked!”

“Great, how about a hand!” HitmanJ called.

He was firing at two Ul Gibbons who were circling him. Mechguns were more effective as a pair but he had no choice but to use one on each Gibbon.

“Right.” She nodded.

She started to run to HitmanJ but stopped when she heard Amanda calling for help. She ran past Gibbles as it continued to pound Cerberus. She stopped when she saw Amanda was merely stuck.

“I’ll be one minute!” She yelled.

“Sure, I’m not going anywhere.” Amanda sighed.

Aphrodite turned and blasted Gibbles with her cane. Gibbles turned and came charging at her. Cerberus sat up and aimed for the base of the skull. Gibbles fell dead in front of Aphrodite. She nodded and ran for her friend. Cerberus helped HitmanJ take out the remaining Gibbons. Aphrodite carefully pulled the carcass off Amanda. She was slow to get up. The back of her shirt was torn to shreds. Her back wasn’t much better. Aphrodite quickly cast Resta.

“Thanks.” Amanda smiled pulling her shirt back on by the shoulder.

“That thing will never stay on.” Aphrodite shook her head.

“I know.” Amanda frowned, “Worst thing is it tore up my under shirt too so I can’t even take it off.”

“My undershirt should fit you.” Aphrodite smiled, “You can wear it.”

“Thank you.” Amanda grinned, “Let’s go behind those bushes.”

“Good idea.” Aphrodite nodded.

HitmanJ managed to weld Cerberus’ knee together well enough to use. It really needed to be replaced but they didn’t have time for that. Lisa was missing and possibly in danger. He finished just as the girls walked up. He looked up to see Amanda wearing an undershirt.

“Can’t you keep your cloths on for one mission?” He grinned.

“Shut up.” Amanda smiled back.

“I hope we don’t encounter this all the way to the beach.” Aphrodite sighed.

“Me either.” Cerberus replied, “Let’s move.”

They ran into several groups of the islands usual creatures as they made their way through the mountains. Progress was slow which was starting to bother Cerberus. They still had to cross the jungle before reaching the beach and he knew that would be slow. He was right. They encountered not one Mericarol but three. After getting badly beaten up the team finally reached the beach. Cerberus cautiously broke through the bush onto the hot sand. It appeared to be completely devoid of life.

“Clear.” He waved.

The girls hit the sand and collapsed. Amanda’s shorts were badly ripped and her boots weren’t much better. Aphrodite wasn’t in much better shape and even though nothing could be seen she still felt exposed. HitmanJ came through last. His pants were now shorts and his top was long gone. Even his upper body armour couldn’t stand up to the pounding they had taken. Cerberus looked like he had just come from a metal grinder.

“I guess nobody is keeping these things under control any more.” HitmanJ said falling to his butt.

“If that’s true then why is the beach clean?” Cerberus shrugged.

“Ya we’re not even close to the resort property.” Aphrodite frowned.

“This place should be crawling with…” Amanda started.

“Quiet!” Cerberus snapped then whispered, “My sensors are picking up several life forms all around us.”

HitmanJ jumped to his feet drawing his mechguns.

“What type?” He asked.

“Human and Android.” Cerberus replied.

“No Newmans?” Aphrodite asked.

“My sensors read you and humans as the same.” Cerberus shrugged.

“Oh.” Aphrodite replied looking down.

A tall RAmar dressed in black stepped out from the bush. He had a shot aimed at them.

“Drop your weapons!” He said, “You are surrounded and escape is impossible.”

Cerberus nodded to his team and dropped his Justy.

“Nighthawk, I haven’t seen you in quite a while.” Cerberus said.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t Deepfreeze’s right arm.” Nighthawk smirked, “And where is that pesky friend of yours?”

“I haven’t seen him in over a year.” Cerberus replied.

“Yes I know.” Nighthawk grinned evilly.

He started walking slowly around the small group. Several other hunters emerged from the bushes. HitmanJ tightened up clenching his fists. The girls sat looking quite confused.

“Hey, what’s going on?” Amanda asked quietly.

“They’re Black Paper.” HitmanJ replied.

“Uh oh.” Aphrodite gasped.

Nighthawk studied each person carefully before stopping.

“This is quite the little group of white trash you have here.” Nighthawk pointed, “Hardly worthy of the hunter’s guild let alone the Guardians of Pioneer.”

“Hey!” Amanda shouted jumping to her feet.

Several Black Paper members raised their weapons at her. She quickly relaxed and stood quiet.

“My you’re a brave little thing aren’t you?” Nighthawk grinned stepping up to Amanda.

He grabbed her by the chin and looked her over before backing away.

“Pretty but a little too white for me.”

“I’m so disappointed.” Amanda growled.

Nighthawk ignored her. He circled around to face Cerberus. He scratched his chin then shrugged.

“I have a problem here.” He said.

“I know but you just won’t die.” Cerberus shot.

“Funny.” Nighthawk growled, “No you see you aren’t supposed to know we’re here and I can’t let you leave to tell anybody. So my problem is what to do with you.”

“Kill them!” An android yelled.

Nighthawk nodded the shrugged.

“Simply shooting you won’t do for someone as reputable as the famous Cerberus and the ever pesky Hitman.”

“Oh good, I was hoping this would be slow and painful.” HitmanJ grumbled.

“That’s not what you need either.” Nighthawk shook his head, “It needs to be more challenging, more fun. I’ve got it. A hunt!”

“A what?” Aphrodite gasped.

“Yes a hunt.” Nighthawk smiled, “We let you loose in the jungle then my fellow hunters come after you. Of course we can’t let you keep your techniques, that would be just plain foolish.”

He snapped his fingers. Two HUcaseals stepped forward and injected HitmanJ and the girls with a clear liquid. They then relieved Cerberus of his traps and took their equipment packs.

“That’s better.” Nighthawk grinned.

“What did you do?” Aphrodite gasped.

“That was a little something we borrowed from Lazarus.” Nighthawk shrugged.

“Not again.” Amanda groaned.

“Do you have any idea how bad it is for a Newman to lose contact with their mental energy?” HitmanJ cried.

“Not half as bad as what I can do!” Nighthawk shot, “Now I’ll give you ten minutes to make your selves scarce then we come for you!”

The crowd broke out in laughing and cheering. Cerberus’ group just stood there.

“The clock is ticking.” Nighthawk glared, “Go!”

Cerberus slowly turned and led his group into the bush. They took off at a full fun as soon as they hit the plants. Nighthawk smiled as they disappeared then it drained from his face.

“Kill em!”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE

The Black Paper hunters cheered and stormed the bush. The noise drove Cerberus’ team back into the jungle.

“What happened to ten minutes?” Aphrodite panted.

“You didn’t actually believe him?” Cerberus asked.

“Well?” Aphrodite shrugged.

“Less talk more hustle!” Amanda quipped.

They had cleared out most of the creatures on their way through so they should have had a clear path back to the transporter into the mountains. It was the only one currently working. They reached the cascading pools where the Mericarols loved to live. There was one waiting for them.

“No way.” HitmanJ gasped.

“We can’t fight them in our condition!” Amanda cried.

“Then we get off the usual path and head into the deep undergrowth.” Cerberus said as he peeled back a wall of vines.

HitmanJ stepped through first followed by the girls and finally Cerberus. It was slow going but at least they were in deep cover. They rounded one of the jungles many ledges then re-entered the growth. HitmanJ signalled everyone down. A HUcast and a FOmar passed by right in front of them. He waited for them to disappear before jetting across the path. The others silently skipped across. Cerberus was the only android HitmanJ had met that had external sensors and he was glad for that. They stopped at the edge of a deep pool. HitmanJ dropped to his belly and crawled out to the edge. He watched a group of four pass by on the far side. He started to crawl back when the HUnewearl trailing the group stopped and looked in his direction. HitmanJ froze. She seemed to stare forever before a HUmar came back for her.

“What is it?” He asked.

“Thought I heard something.” She replied, “It’s nothing.”

HitmanJ hadn’t realized he’d been holding his breath until they moved on and he let out a deep breath. Cerberus poked his head through the leaves.

“How does it look?” He whispered.

“All clear.” HitmanJ waved.

They quickly strafed the pool edge the shot across the path the hunting party had used. Cerberus checked their position with Cal and sent a message to Elly. The reply that came back was Nighthawk.

“Now you don’t think I’d actually let you contact the ship.” He sneered, “By the way, I used your signal to direct my hunters.”

A shot burned through the growth and just missed Amanda’s head.

“Run!” Cerberus cried.

The team bolted just as the jungle opened up with photon fire. The vines and branches whipped them as they tore through the growth. Amazingly they managed to escape without a single hit. Cerberus’ sensors told him three groups were closing behind him but at least the shooting had stopped. The growth started to thin as they entered the mountain area. Soon their cover would be gone. Their only chance would be to reach the transporter first. They rounded a rock wall and started up the incline. A shot flew past Aphrodite. She didn’t turn to look. Several more shots came at them. Fortunately the paths were very twisted up in the rocks providing them with cover. They just had to stay one step ahead of the hunting parties. Cerberus checked his map. They were getting close. An Ul Gibbon jumped out in front of them. Cerberus knocked it aside allowing the group to run past. He hoped it might slow the hunters down. Another Ul Gibbon and a Zol Gibbon appeared behind them. Cerberus smiled. They would slow Black Paper for sure. They rounded the last corner and stopped just in front of the transporter.

“What?” HitmanJ grumbled then gasped.

The transporter had been deactivated. They were now trapped. The hunting party would reach them shortly and they had no way to fight back.

“What do we do now?” Aphrodite cried.

“There’s nothing we can do.” Cerberus shrugged.

“We could jump.” Amanda said looking over the edge.

The others all stared at her.

“Kidding.” She shrugged.

They heard several shots before Black Paper showed up. Twelve hunters rounded the corner, each with the grin of death.

“Well this hasn’t been much of a challenge.” A purple RAcast said, “I had hoped you would have been more of a sport.”

“Pretty sad for such a bunch of highly praised hero’s.” A yellow HUmar sneered.

“Yes, but I shall still take pride in knowing I killed the great Cerberus and his friends.” The RAcast grinned.

“Can’t we just kill the men and take the girls?” A FOnewm asked.

“Normally we would but Nighthawk wants them all dead.” The RAcast replied.

“But they’re so hot.” The FOnewm wined.

“Stop thinking with your gentiles!” The HUmar yelled.

“Enough!” The RAcast snapped, “This ends now!”

Amanda and Aphrodite’s eye suddenly went wide. A smile crawled across Cerberus’ face. This caused Black Paper to hesitate.

“What?” The RAcast frowned.

“Nothing.” Cerberus grinned.

They heard a bark then a Gibbles tore into the group. Bodies went flying everywhere. The hunters still standing turned to attack. A pack of Gibbons jumped them. Cerberus signalled for his team to follow. Quietly they crept around the carnage and past the Gibbles. A Zol Gibbon tried to jump them. HitmanJ side kicked the creature then Cerberus drove his fist into its head. They scurried away undetected. They didn’t stop until they reached the jungle edge. They had to be very careful. More hunting parties were still out looking for them.

“Now what do we do?” Amanda asked.

“The Central Control Area is the only place we can go.” Cerberus replied, “The transporter should still be active there.”

“That’s quite a trek.” HitmanJ said.

“We don’t have any choice.” Cerberus shrugged.

“Let’s go.” Amanda said heading away.

“Uh Amanda.” Cerberus pointed, “It’s that way.”

“OK.” Amanda smiled and headed in the direction of Cerberus’ finger.

They skirted the edge of the jungle narrowly avoiding three hunting parties. It was a long trek up to the reservoir that split the east and west towers. The large blast door that allowed access to the dam was open. To their disappointment the transporters were deactivated. They had only one chance now, the transporter on the cliffs. First they’d have to get through the storage rooms then cross the dam. That was very difficult considering they had no weapons, no traps, and no techniques. Cerberus stepped through the door first. Three Merillia appeared on the steps. They sat still bobbing their heads oblivious to the hunters that now watched them. Cerberus carefully stepped further in. The door leading to the first store room was unlocked so they just needed to get by without attracting the Merillias. The others stayed at the door waiting for him to signal them. He slowly climbed the ramp making it three quarters of the way. Still the Merillias sat bobbing their heads. He was far enough now that he should have no trouble reaching the door. He relaxed and started to turn. There was a loud clunk, clunk behind him. He turned to come face to face with a large transparent object. He could just make out the Sinow Berrils features.

“Uh oh.” Cerberus muttered.

“Intruder identify your self!” The Sinow Berril boomed.

“Say what?” Cerberus frowned.

“Identify your self!” The Sinow Berril repeated.

“Cerberus, Hunters Guild section ID Oran. Guardians of Pioneer serial number one three charley five one seven.” Cerberus replied.

“Accessing Olga for verification please stand by!” The Sinow announced.

“This can’t end well.” HitmanJ grumbled.

“Search complete ID not found!” The Sinow said.

“Big surprise.” Cerberus sighed.

The Sinow Berril decloaked and drove its fist into Cerberus’ chest. He went flying into one of the Merillia. It made a scratchy throat sound and climbed to its feet.

“Let’s go!” HitmanJ said charging in.

The girls nodded and followed. The Sinow Berril stomped forward to greet the intruders. It swung at HitmanJ. He ducked the first swing then received the second in the ribs. He was knocked to the ground. The impact produced a sick snap sound. Pain shot through his side. At least one rib was broken. Aphrodite went left, Amanda went right. They jumped on the Sinows arms but could do nothing but pound it with their fists. It allowed HitmanJ to crawl away. Cerberus grabbed the Merillia by the throat and choked the life out of it. He was about to drop the plant but Aphrodite came flying at him. She had been tossed by the Sinow who now had Amanda by the upper arm. Cerberus caught the young force then tossed the plant at the Sinow. The Sinow Berril tossed Amanda aside and charged the android. Cerberus stood his ground locking arms with the bot. The Sinow Berril tried to punch the android. Cerberus held tight. Amanda climbed to her feet only to be knocked flat on her face. She looked back to see another Merillia swinging its arms wildly at her. She crawled away. Aphrodite ran to help deal with the troublesome plant. It turned and headed for the force allowing Amanda to climb to her feet. The Merillia swung a long vine at her. She jumped back just enough so the vine caught only her shirt. It split it open just above her belly. Amanda circled around and planted her boot square in the back of its head. The Merillia fell flat on its face. Aphrodite quickly leapt on top of it squashing the petal head. Green blood squirted all over her boots.

“EWW!” She squealed, “I’m not looking forward to cleaning that.”

Cerberus was still struggling with the Sinow Berril. He released the right arm then grabbed it just below the shoulder. He took a hard punch before ripping the arm out of the joint. The Sinow jumped back taking Cerberus with it. He managed to hold on to its wrist. It raised its arm lifting Cerberus off the ground. He let go just as the arm started to drop. Cerberus ran behind the Sinow Berril as it drove its fist into the floor.

“Missed.” Cerberus smiled and drove his arm into the Sinows exposed socked. He grabbed as much internal circuitry as he could then pulled it out. The Sinow Berril twisted one hundred eighty degrees and fell flat on its face. Cerberus gave it a soft kick then nodded when the Sinow failed to respond.

“Let’s keep moving.” He waved.

Aphrodite helped HitmanJ to his feet and followed the others into the next room. They met resistance here too. They just barely survived this encounter only to face opponents all the way to the transporter. The team slowly exited the bridge and collapsed in front of the large red warp gate that would take them down to the cliffs. The hunters clothing was nothing more than strips of fabric now, just barely covering the important parts. HitmanJ had received another couple broken ribs and Aphrodite was limping from a nasty cut in her right calf. They had used some of the torn clothing for a bandage. The bleeding had stopped but it still hurt. Amanda was pretty sure her left fore arm was broken and Cerberus was suffering from several damaged systems. Wires hung and fluid dripped from every cut in his metal body. His fluid reservoir was getting dangerously low. It carried the electrolyte and lubricants necessary for maintaining his power. When it runs dry his systems will have no choice but to shut down. After this point his emergency reserve would be able to maintain brain functions for three hours. After that he’d die. He didn’t tell the others just how bad his condition was. He looked at the transporter with hope. This one being active meant the one on the cliffs was also active. He took a step forward and the power went out.

“No!” He gasped, “NO!”

“You people are just like cockroaches. You refuse to die!”

Cerberus turned to see Nighthawk glaring at him. Two large RAcasts stood at his side. Each had a shot pointed at them.

“We wouldn’t want to make it easy for you.” Cerberus glared.

“No, I appreciate that.” Nighthawk smiled, “There’s always so much more sport in a challenge, but all fun must come to an end. I’m afraid you must die now.”

Nighthawk was just about to give the order but was interrupted by his com panel.

“What is it?” He growled.

“I need you to return to Pioneer Two immediately.” A female voice said.

“That sounds familiar.” Cerberus whispered to HitmanJ.

“That’s Sue right.” HitmanJ whispered back.

Cerberus nodded. Nighthawk shot them an evil glare then turned his attention back to his left arm.

“I’m kinda busy right now.” He growled.

“This concerns Black Hound.” Sue said, “Make sure to set your telepipe to the lab. The promenade is a little cold right now.”

“There’s too many people there.” Nighthawk frowned.

“I set off the fire alarm.” Sue replied, “The place is empty but the ships fire crew will be here shortly.”

“Fine.” He grumbled punching his com pad, “Looks like I won’t get to finish you personally but this is more important.”

He programmed his telepipe and dropped it in front of him. He turned to face his casts.

“Make sure they die slowly.” He said and stepped in.

One of the RAcasts stowed his shot and drew a sabre. He slowly approached the group while the other kept his gun trained on them.

“You!” The RAcast pointed at Aphrodite, “Come forward.”

Aphrodite limped forward never taking her eyes off the ground.

“I shall enjoy chopping you to bits.” He grinned and raised his sabre.

“No!” HitmanJ cried trying to run forward.

A shot rang out over the mountain. The RAcast shuddered then collapsed. The second android spun around. A second shot brought him down. The transporter reactivated. Standing on the bridge with a rifle still aimed was the red haired girl in the hooded cloak. She walked up to them and smiled, keeping her eyes hidden as usual.

“This is most unlike you Cerberus.” She said, “You usually get out of tight spots with out my help.”

“We were caught by surprise.” Cerberus shrugged, “I had no way of knowing they were here.”

“Which is why I have been watching you.” The girl said.

“We thank you.” Cerberus bowed his head.

“Get your team back to the ship.” The girl said, “They look like they are suffering quite a bit and you yourself do not have much time.”

“What is she talking about?” Amanda asked looking up at him.

“Nothing.” Cerberus muttered, “We still have to find Lisa, she could be in greater danger than us.”

“Lisa is safe.” The girl waved, “She’s not even on this island.”

“Where is she?” Amanda asked.

“With a friend.” The girl said, “I can not say anymore. It might compromise his current position and put both their lives in danger.”

Cerberus thought for a moment then nodded.

“Alright then.”

He turned and ushered his team into the transporter. Instead of appearing on the cliffs, they found themselves in the lab. Fire crews were standing around completing their investigation and reports. Cerberus headed straight for the medical booth just outside the shops. The nurse there sent him to the lab then took care of the others. Once their wounds were healed they went to one of the local shops and picked up some new cloths. This remote hunter’s guild station didn’t carry uniforms so they’d have to wait until the dome was restored to get new ones. They also had to pick up some basic weapons and shields. Cerberus was the only one who lost anything of value. The others only lost the basic equipment they had purchased earlier. They returned to the lab where Cerberus was waiting. He looked around at all the lab workers. Only Elly waved.

“Let’s go find Falcon.” He said.

He was about to step through the transporter door when every remaining member of Black Paper poured out of the transporter. They quickly rounded everyone up and confiscated the hunter’s new weapons.

“Easy come, easy go.” HitmanJ sighed handing over his mechguns.

“Well, well, we meet again.”

Cerberus turned to see Nighthawk and Sue step from the warp.

“What is this?” Cerberus frowned

“The freedom of Black Paper!” Sue announced, “The scientists have controlled us for long enough. We take back our freedom and there is no one to stop us.”

“The Hunters Guild will.” Cerberus growled.

“Ha, the attack on the ship has left you leaderless and disorganized!” Sue laughed, “Beside, half of them are here already.”

She held out her arms encompassing the Black Paper troop. The remaining scientists were ushered over to Cerberus’ location. Sue looked everyone over then glared at her troop Captain.

“Where is Montague?” She growled.

“Not here.” The Captain shrugged, “This is everyone.”

“No one leaves here.” Sue hissed, “Come Nighthawk.”

He nodded but said nothing. She stormed in to Montague’s lab. The secret warp was gone. Sue walked over to the stasis chamber and tried to open it. She cursed and drew her claw. She slashed the chamber open exposing the warp.

“Come!” She barked.

She stepped into the warp and disappeared. Nighthawk grumbled and followed her in. They returned to the group a few minutes later.

“Montague’s gone.” Sue grumbled, “No matter. Lock them in lab one. Everyone is busy with ship repairs; it should be easy picking off the remaining hunters and military. Bring the rest up then sweep the ship.”

“Ah Sue.” Nighthawk said, “This is everyone.”

Sue shot him a look that would have frozen the Devil himself.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY

For someone who was more animal than android Kireek was proving to be quite difficult to track. He had eluded Deepfreeze’s party twice by going through the decompressed sections of the ship. The only thing keeping them on his trail was the locator the lab had installed on his back. His aimless wandering was much like an injured animal searching for something. He had attacked three repair teams and two civilians trying to return home. None were serious but it was only a matter of time before someone really got hurt. Deepfreeze had thought he might be searching for a way off the ship but that idea was quickly squashed when Kireek entered the main promenade and passed right by the main transporter. Deepfreeze wasn’t able to follow him then but Lisa and Elenor had stayed right with him. Deepfreeze had to circle around and picked them up when they entered a pressurized service tunnel. Kireek was now making his way to the WORKS division and he was making good time. A security detail tried intercepting him but failed. Now he was armed with a sabre he took from one of the guards. Most of the military was out helping with repairs but WORKS didn’t deal with minor things like a ship wide attack so their headquarters should still be fully staffed. Deepfreeze didn’t like the idea of Kireek falling into their hands again. He caught sight of Kireek just as the android ducked around the corner. He entered the great hall that WORKS had claimed as their own. Deepfreeze suspected it was because they had become so physically weak they needed something to intimidate people with. The Great Hall surely accomplished this. So much so it caused Kireek to pause. The great columns and arches were finished in polished metal similar in appearance to aluminium. Long red tapestries hung between the columns giving it an ancient Roman feel. The floor was finished to look like marble. The main door was made from simulated ash and covered in carvings. A long red carpet ran from the hall entrance to the five steps leading up to the main door. It was all fake but looked no less impressive. Kireek snorted then charged the guards standing at the main door. As hard as they tried, they were no match for the crazed android. He left bloody foot prints on the floor as he stepped through the door. Deepfreeze carefully stepped by the rendered guards and aimed his Ruby Bullet.

“That’s enough Kireek.” He said.

Lisa and Elenor stepped up behind him aiming their guns at the android. Kireek growled viciously at them.

“There’s no place you can run.” Deepfreeze said calmly, “Come with us. We can help you.”

Kireek twisted around then turned back snarling at the rangers. He threw the sabre at them like a spear. The rangers dove to the side. Kireek bolted down the hall and around the corner. The rangers followed in hot pursuit. They found another WORKS guard dead in the next hallway. Kireek had snapped his neck. Kireek was moving much faster than Deepfreeze had thought possible considering how many dead WORKS members they were coming across. The alarm sounded at long last. The hallways filled with WORKS members scurrying to grab their weapons. No one stopped the rangers but they didn’t bother to get out of the way either. They ran past the main office only to run into a WORKS Captain.

“What are you people doing here?” He snapped, “Wait, you’re Montague’s android!”

Elenor nodded. He spotted Lisa’s badge. A scowl crossed his face.

“Guardians!” He spat then turned to Deepfreeze, “I know you, you’re the ice ranger. A little out of uniform aren’t you?”

“I’m on a recovery mission from the lab.” Deepfreeze said, “One of the patients escaped. We followed him here.”

“I know who you’re after.” The Captain snarled, “We will apprehend Black Hound and place him back into our custody.”

“No I don’t think so.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

He cast Rabarta freezing everyone but his teammates.

“Move!” He barked.

They continued on tracking Kireeks every movement. He was headed for WORKS quarantine lab. It was painfully clear now what Kireek was after. Deepfreeze wasn’t sure how the Soul Eater would reach to Kireeks new state of mind. It had been eating away at him for years and Dark Falz influence had accelerated the process. Now that his mind was completely gone there was nothing left for the cursed scythe to feed on. They entered the last hallway leading to works labs. Dead researchers littered the floor.

“Oh my!” Elenor gasped.

“He’s efficient.” Deepfreeze quipped.

“That’s not funny.” Lisa frowned.

“Oh, ya, right, sorry.” Deepfreeze smiled, “We’re getting close.”

The left wall erupted in flame and metal. The rangers had to duck to avoid the shrapnel. The smoke hadn’t even cleared but Deepfreeze charged forward anyway. He stopped in front of the new hole. Kireek stood in front of a broken case, his mutated weapon still hanging on its hooks.

“Kireek no!’ Deepfreeze yelled.

The android spun and glared at him. Without taking an eye off Deepfreeze he reached back and grabbed the weapon. A black cloud began to emanate from its blood red eye. Kireek gripped it with both hands and slowly started stalking the ranger. Lisa and Elenor ran up beside him.

“Uh oh.” Lisa said looking at the HUcast.

“Blast him.” Deepfreeze said flatly.

The rangers found themselves surrounded by rifles. WORKS had caught up with them. Kireek paused to take in this new development.

“Lower your weapons!” The Captain ordered.

Reluctantly Deepfreeze lowered his gun and was quickly relieved of it.

“Take them away.” The Captain waved.

One of the guards poked Deepfreeze in the ribs with the barrel of his rifle. Deepfreeze shot him a nasty glare then slowly turned and walked away. Lisa and Elenor fell in behind him. The Captain turned to Kireek and smiled.

“Black Hound, so good of you to come back.” The Captain smirked, “We really missed you.”

Kireek snarled and took a step forward. The rifles were instantly trained on him.

“Don’t do anything stupid.” The Captain waved a fore finger, “You’re much too valuable to us.”

Kireek leapt threw the hole into the middle of the group and with fluid precision cut down every WORKS member before they could act. The troop escorting Deepfreeze’s team turned to see what the noise was. Kireek was charging at an incredible speed. The rear guards started firing. Kireek blocked every shot then jumped an impossible distance even for an android cutting into one guard with a chop then swinging sideways slicing the second guard in half. The rangers suddenly found their weapons being forced back into their hands. Kireek straightened from his attack holding the Soul Eater up with one hand. His eyes glowed bright red as his blood soaked weapon absorbed the red liquid. The blood flowed across the metal in tiny vein like streams into the red vortex that was the weapons eye. Once all the blood had been absorbed, the eye returned to its ruby pearl state. Kireek started to laugh. It wasn’t a savage animal laugh that he’d displayed earlier. This laugh had substance and intelligence in it. This was the Kireek of old with a great amount of evil cruelty in him, and he was about to enjoy demonstrating it. Then the laugh died. Every one stood silent.

“I am whole again!” Kireek announced, “And now I will finally kill you!”

He jerked forward as if to attack but stopped just as abruptly. He looked behind him then all around as if searching for something.

“Leave me alone!” He cried, “I serve no one!”

He cried out in agony dropping his weapon, then falling to his knees and grabbing his head. Deepfreeze took a step forward. Kireek grabbed his Soul Eater and glared at the ranger still grunting in pain. Deepfreeze stepped back but kept his gun on the android.

“I serve no one!” Kireek cried again, “Alright, alright, I surrender. Whatever you wish!”

“He relaxed as the pain subsided. He stood up and glared at the rangers.

“First things first.” He said hungrily then looked up, “But I have them. At least let me kill the big one. But he must die. Very well.”

His shoulders slumped as he stepped back turning to leave. He stopped midway through the turn and pointed at Deepfreeze.

“You escape my revenge once more but know this.” He said, “You will taste my wrath!”

He took off down the hall. The rangers and WORKS guards fired. The Soul Eater flashed in a wave of movement. Kireek blocked every shot without looking back. He rounded the corner and was gone.

“How do we stop that?” Lisa asked.

“And who was he talking to?” One of the guards asked.

“Who else?” Deepfreeze sighed, “Dark Falz.”

He ran after the android. Lisa and Elenor took off after him.

“Hey!” The guard called but did not pursue.

The rangers exited the Great Hall but were too late. Kireek was gone and his tracking chip was lying on the floor at Deepfreeze’s feet. It didn’t mater, he knew where the android was going. Deepfreeze wasn’t about to go there without his uniform and equipment and it was still in the main checkroom. He sighed and headed back to the lab. They got half way there when the ships intercom beeped.

“Attention all personnel this is Principal Tyrell. The city dome has been repaired. Gravity and life support are now active. You may return to your quarters. Tyrell out.”

“Someone is looking out for me.” Deepfreeze smiled.

He changed his route heading for the nearest warp.

“Where to now?” Lisa frowned.

“I need my equipment.” Deepfreeze said, “I’m finished with this spy stuff. It’s time to be a hunter again.”

“Yes!” Lisa squealed.

Elenor smiled and followed them back to the promenade. They gathered up the supplies they needed and Deepfreeze grabbed his Shield of Delsaber and his Final Impact. His uniform was back at his apartment. Several of the hunters coming to get their belongings stopped and stared. Deepfreeze sighed and turned. They weren’t staring at him. He looked over to where their eyes were trained. The red haired girl in the hooded cloak was standing before them. She kept head down to hide her face. Lisa let out a soft gasp which was very good for an android. The girl stepped up to Deepfreeze but did not raise her head.

“Black Hound is headed to the ruins.” She said.

“I know.” Deepfreeze said, “I’m going after him.”

“Not yet.” The girl said holding up a finger, “Your friends are in trouble at the lab.”

“How is that possible?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Not important.” The girl waved her finger, “I’ll go and try to delay Kireek. Free your friends first; we are going to need them.”

“Are you sure it’s wise for you to go there?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“I can hear Falz but he does not call to me.” She replied, “He calls the Black Hound. I can’t let him get there.”

“Alright go.” Deepfreeze nodded, “I won’t be long.”

“Good, take some of these hunters with you.” The girl said, “You’ll need them.”

She turned and ran for the transporter before he could say any more.

“Who was that?” Elenor asked.

“I’ll tell you later.” Deepfreeze replied then turned to the small group of hunters that had gathered, “You heard the lady, grab your weapons. We have people to save.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY ONE

The hunters grabbed their equipment then followed Deepfreeze to his apartment. He ducked inside for a moment then reappeared dressed in his uniform. He locked the door then headed straight for the warp. They appeared in the small room just opposite to the hunter’s guild desk. The girl that usually manned the chair was gone. Deepfreeze drew his Final Impact and stuck his head out. Two hunters were standing guard at the warp to the lab. Deepfreeze ducked back into the room.

“Two guards at the warp.” He reported, “It’s Black Paper.”

“You’re joking?” A young Fonewearl dressed in blue asked, “They don’t actually expect to take over the ship?”

“No but I wouldn’t be surprised if they’ve already got what they came for.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“Unless they came for Kireek.” Lisa said.

“Right.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“Let me handle the guards.” A giant hulk of a green RAcast said pushing past them.

He pulled out a freeze trap and tossed it down the hall. It landed a little short but was still quite effective.

“Go.” He waved.

Deepfreeze bolted out of the room and over to the guards before the freeze wore off. The Black Paper guards suddenly found themselves surrounded. They easily gave up their weapons.

“That was too easy.” A green haired HUnewearl sighed.

“Everyone move carefully.” Deepfreeze said, “Hopefully they still think they’ve got the element of surprise.”

The hunters quickly filed into the warp in pairs. Deepfreeze and Lisa appeared first followed by the others. Black Paper had assembled in a group at the base of the ramp. There were far fewer than Deepfreeze had suspected. There was no sign of the scientists that usually worked here.

“Nobody move!” Deepfreeze announced, “You’re all under arrest!”

“YOU!” Sue yelled stepping out from the group, “How did you get in here?”

“Like those two guards you posted were going to stop me.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“He came in the front door!” Sue cried grabbing a small green RAcaseal by the throat.

She started shaking the android angrily. Lisa winced as she threw her to the floor. Sue turned to face her men.

“You told me he was coming in through the back service tunnels!” Sue screamed, “What good are you if you can’t even keep track of a simple ranger!”

Deepfreeze frowned, partly because of the insult and partly because he had no idea who Sue might be taking about. No matter what Sue was yelling he knew the Black Paper agents were smart enough not to confuse him with anyone else. Nighthawk stepped up to her looking at his left arm screen.

“Sue, Richard reports they have Deepfreeze and his team in custody.”

“Obviously they don’t.” She growled punching him in the stomach, “You are worthless.”

“If you’re finished, I strongly recommend dropping your weapons.” Deepfreeze said.

“Never.” Sue hissed.

She threw a Foie ball at them. He jumped sideways crashing into the hunters on his right. The fire ball landed harmlessly against the lab window. Black Paper split up firing at the hunters. A couple received minor injuries as the hunters dove for cover behind the warp platform. Weapons flashed and techniques flew as the battle enraged. Black Paper quickly took shelter up on the platform containing the chief’s desk. The group that had taken the hostages to the lab stepped out into the middle of the fire fight looking quite surprised.

“Deepfreeze look.” Lisa said pointing at them.

“I bet they know where everyone is.” He smiled.

“Lisa nodded. He signalled for her and Elenor to follow. They cut to the right then aimed straight at the group. One of the Black Paper saw them and started shooting. Deepfreeze took a single shot knocking most of them out. The one that started firing tried to run but Elenor took out his right foot. He screamed as he fell. Lisa grabbed him by the collar and dragged him back into the hallway. Deepfreeze stood over him with his shot aimed at his chest. The man stared up at him with pain filled terror in his eyes.

“You’re going to tell me where you took the lab employees right now.” Deepfreeze said coldly.

Lisa was shocked by his tone. She had never heard him speak with such a heartless cold tone before. She didn’t like it at all. Even when he was angry there was always some compassion in his voice. She looked down at the man who simply nodded. Deepfreeze moved his shot a little closer.

“They… they’re in the first lab!” The man sputtered, “With the other hunters.”

Deepfreeze relaxed and withdrew his gun.

“Thank you.” He nodded.

Deepfreeze stepped by the man without even helping. The man clutched at the scorched stump that was his ankle. Lisa looked back then looked up at her friend.

“Shouldn’t we help him?”

“He’s dead already.” Deepfreeze replied coldly.

“It was just his foot!” Lisa exclaimed, “It wasn’t that bad. This isn’t like you. You always help people no matter who they are!”

“Lisa.” Deepfreeze sighed then looked at the injured man, “It’s not that I don’t want to help him, it’s that I can’t help him.”

“I don’t understand.” Lisa shook her head.

“The wound won’t kill him.” Deepfreeze said, “The virus will.”

“Virus, what virus?” Lisa asked looking quite confused.

“Eleanor’s rifle is one of Montague’s little toys.” Deepfreeze said, “I recognize its components from Gal Da Val. Spider fangs right?”

Elenor nodded.

“The Doctor has been fascinated with them ever since you returned Sato’s collar.” Elenor said in her cheerful tone, “He brought back a whole spider but found only the fangs useful for weapon construction and he had to combine it with normal rifle parts.”

“Most importantly it uses the renewable spider venom.” Deepfreeze said, “Which contains a virus that infects every cell of its victim. It will then either paralyse the victim or mutate it into another D-cell life form.”

“How do you know this?” Lisa asked.

“A friend told me.” Deepfreeze replied.

“The girl in the cloak?” Lisa smirked.

Deepfreeze nodded.

“Who is she?” Lisa frowned.

Deepfreeze ignored her. He stopped at the lad door. It was locked and the security reader was smashed.

“Figures.” He grumbled, “Lisa, damage trap please.”

“Ah sure.” She stuttered.

She drew a trap from her pack and handed it to him. He set it to maximum and placed it against the door. He used a low level Barta to stick it to the door encasing it in ice. He quickly ushered the androids away and hoped Cerberus was in there to detect it. The trap exploded blowing a giant hole in the door. A red bulk of a HUcast stepped out. He placed his hands on his hips.

“Only you’d be so reckless.” He said.

“Yes, me the prime example of brainless endangerment.” Deepfreeze smiled.

Amanda jumped out in front of Cerberus.

“Freeze!” She cried and ran at him.

She jumped up in to his arms and kissed him.

“I missed you!” She cried.

“I missed…” He began then saw her expression changed, “Oh crap.”

She slapped him hard on the cheek.

“That’s for leaving.” She growled and stepped back.

“I deserved that.” He sighed, “But believe me it was necessary.”

“Why?” Amanda cried.

HitmanJ and Aphrodite entered the hall followed by the lab staff.

“If my eyes don’t deceive me.” HitmanJ smiled.

“Oh this is going to be ugly.” Aphrodite sighed.

Deepfreeze looked down at the young HUnewearl and discovered that his feelings for her had changed. Perhaps the old saying “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” had some truth behind it.

“I…” He started but suddenly found it difficult to speak, “I… it was too dangerous to bring you along. Me disappearing would just be a mystery for most. If we all disappeared then everyone would be on alert or trying to locate us. I had to sever all connections to the public world so I could sneak into high security areas with little difficultly. This way I’d be the only one that could compromise my mission.”

“Which was?” Amanda frowned.

“Discover the traitor who was still using Lazarus and Osto’s research!” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“And?” Cerberus leaned forward.

“At first I thought it was Mome and he was but the true traitor was…” Deepfreeze said.

“Doctor Montague.” Elenor finished.

“What?” The group exclaimed.

“He didn’t mean it.” Elenor said, “He’s just obsessed with the unusual photons on this planet.”

“And it was Mome who took all Lazarus research subjects.” Deepfreeze sighed.

“He’s down on the southern island.” Elly said, “Falcon’s team went to find him and investigate that alien craft.”

“But we’ve lost contact with them.” Cerberus said, “We were about to go look for them when Black Paper stopped us.”

“Plus Kireek is headed back to the ruins.” Deepfreeze frowned, “Alright, get back to the check room and hunters guild to get suited up. I’ll meet you there.”

Cerberus nodded and followed him down the hall. Deepfreeze peeked out into the main lab. The battle was still raging on and it was not going well for the hunters. Additional Black paper members had shown up while they were gone.

“We can’t get to the warp from here.” Cerberus said.

“Take the service tunnels.” Deepfreeze pointed back down the hall, “We’ll help them.”

“Be careful.” Cerberus said squeezing his shoulder.

“I always am.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“We are going to have a serious talk later.” Amanda said and hugged him.

Cerberus led his team and the lab staff back down the hall to the service tunnels. Deepfreeze drew his Final Impact then looked at the androids.

“Ready?”

Lisa and Elenor nodded. Pushan gave a loud chirp. Sato gave a soft metallic meow. Deepfreeze turned and bolted in to action with guns blazing. Lisa and Elenor were hot on his heels. They shot across the floor to the island transport door. The Black Paper members hiding by Elly's desk were forced to retreat. Elenor drew a freeze trap and lobbed it over the railing like a grenade. It exploded freezing anyone standing there. Lisa ran out to the bottom of the ramp and threw a trap of her own. It erupted in a cloud of purple smoked. The members caught in it suddenly found their senses spinning like a top. Most of them just stood there unable to aim or even see straight. Others stared wobbling around and bumping into everything. Deepfreeze charged up the ramp with the remaining hunters following behind. When the effects wore off Black Paper found themselves surrounded again.

“You guys just aren’t very good at this.” Deepfreeze smirked.

“It’s not over.” Sue shot an icy glare, “We still have others coming. Much more than you have.”

“You’re a terrible liar Sue.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“You fell for it.” Sue grinned evilly.

Both Deepfreeze and Nighthawk shot her an angry frown. The remaining Black Paper squad burst into the room escorting their four captured hunters. Deepfreeze and a few others turned aiming their weapons.

“Hey Sue, we got Deepfreeze and…” The lead member began then the smirk drained away as he saw the hunters, “What the?”

“Drop your weapons please.” Deepfreeze ordered.

The lead nodded and slowly set his gun down. Sue let out an annoyed gasp. The other members slowly set their weapons down. They continued to look from their prisoners to the man standing on the platform.

“Am I seeing double?” Nighthawk gasped.

“You are such an idiot.” Sue grumbled.

Deepfreeze walked down the ramp and up to his double. He looked him over then at his team mates. There were two young HUmars, one dressed in red, and the older one dressed in orange. Third was a red headed HUnewearl. He addressed each one in turn.

“Ash, Jesse, and Lacy right?”

Lacy nodded.

“There is only one person tall enough to impersonate me and make it convincing.” Deepfreeze said, “That’s a very good mask you got there Bernie.”

“Thank you.” Bernie said pulling of the mask, “A strange red headed girl in a black cloak said you might need a diversion. That Black Paper was tailing you and we should get them off your tail.”

“She does get around.” Deepfreeze nodded, “I believe you can handle things here.”

“Sure, go on get outa here.” Bernie said without so much as a grin, “Go find your friends.”

Deepfreeze gave him a salute of thanks and entered the warp. Lisa and Elenor followed behind. Jesse watched for a second. His legs felt twitchy. He finally stomped his foot and followed them.

“Jesse, where are you going?” Bernie called.

Jesse didn’t hear them. He was already gone. He stayed far enough behind as to not draw attention to himself. Deepfreeze stopped at the check counter where his friends were waiting.

“Kireek must be stopped before he can reach Falz.” He said, “I’ll take Lisa and Elenor. Shouldn’t be anything we can’t handle there. Take your team and find Falcon’s party.”

“I wish you had one more to fill out your team.” Cerberus said.

“So do I.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Wait!” Jesse called running up to them.

“What are you doing here?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“My sister is on Falcon’s team.” He said, “I want to go find her.”

“This is way too dangerous for an inexperienced hunter like you.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“I don’t care!” Jesse shot, “That’s my sister and I want to help her. I’m not staying behind. Not this time.”

Deepfreeze stared at him for a moment then sighed.

“Alright, go with Cerberus.” He shrugged, “I’ll take Amanda.”

“Darn right you will.” Amanda nodded.

Deepfreeze gave her a slight frown then turned back to Cerberus.

“Take care down there. People seem to have a habit of disappearing.”

“More have disappeared where you’re going.” Cerberus nodded.

“True enough.” Deepfreeze replied shaking his friend’s hand.

Cerberus turned and took the warp back to the lab. Deepfreeze led his team to the main transporter. He took one last look at his teammates. Only Amanda looked out of place with her new uniform and battle beaten boots. He nodded approvingly and stepped in to the transporter.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY TWO

The first level of the mines was completely devoid of activity which had been the norm of late. Deepfreeze’s team materialized in the transporter room of level two. The door slid open to a scene of mechanical carnage. Gillchich parts littered the floor of the next room. Kireek obviously had no trouble dealing with them. This was troubling because he had such a big lead and if the machines couldn’t slow him down then Deepfreeze would have no chance of catching him before he entered the ruins. They moved quickly through the second level following the trail of robot parts. Kireek wasn’t wasting anytime making a bee line straight for Volt Opt. Deepfreeze was hoping he would be able to slow the android down a little. They entered the room that contained the entrance to the control room. Cerberus’ blast door was still here waiting to seal the ruins. The burning hulks of the two guardian Baranz sat at the center of the room. Amanda watched the twitching body of a downed Sinow Red as they cautiously crept through the room. An idea struck her and she bolted over to the damaged robot. Its photon daggers were still active. Using one of her own daggers she hacked off each fore arm and stuffed them in her pack. The others stood staring at her.

“What?” She shrugged, “Montague can make weapons out of these.”

Deepfreeze smiled and continued onto the control room. The main door was open. The control room was a mess. Deepfreeze surveyed the area before he was willing to enter. Volt Opt sat in his second form in the middle of the room. He wasn’t moving but he didn’t look damaged either. Deepfreeze continued to look around finally spotting the tunnel leading to the ruins. It was normally hidden by a sliding wall that only opened after Volt Opt was defeated. It looked to be torn apart.

“He doesn’t like to wait does he?” Amanda smiled looking at the wall.

“No, he doesn’t.” Deepfreeze said quietly, “I’d say Volt Opt is still quite active so we must be very careful.”

“If we are fast enough we should be able to reach that door without having to fight him.” Elenor shrugged

Everyone nodded then readied for the charge.

“Go!” Deepfreeze snapped.

The team bolted into the room and ran along the curved wall. The ruins tunnel was just in sight. Volt Opt rose up turning to face the intruders. He released a volley of rockets that impacted the wall between Lisa and Elenor. Lisa was thrown forward landing at Amanda’s feet. She stopped and looked back. Elenor was way behind and she was slow to get up. Deepfreeze stopped and began firing at the machine.

“Get Elenor!” He yelled.

Amanda nodded and rushed back the way she had come. Lisa sprang to her feet and rushed to the door before she started shooting. Deepfreeze nodded approvingly to her. Amanda reached Elenor just as she got hit by Volt Opts little green energy ball. Three stone pillars rose up trapping the android.

“Oh no.” Amanda muttered remembering that last time one of her friends had been trapped in this.

She began hacking away at the stone. These daggers weren’t as powerful as the last ones she had used and they weren’t cutting the rock too well. Just as before, Volt Opt released a bobbing purple Megid ball that slowly floated toward Elenor. Volt Opt then turned his attention back to the other rangers. Amanda continued to slash the rock but it was obvious she wouldn’t get through before the Megid reached Elenor. Even though a moon atomizer can restore some one killed by Megid it is said that a little piece of that person is lost. Get killed enough times and the person restored to life will no longer be you. Some believe it slowly wipes the mind clean while others believe it’s a far more sinister technique, eating away at the person’s very soul. Amanda didn’t like the implications of either of those. Her adrenaline began to flow heavier. Her heart began beating faster as she become desperate to get the android out. Slowly the ball floated closer. She wasn’t even half way through. Elenor could only watch in horror as the ball bobbed closer and closer.

“Amanda hurry!” She cried.

“I’m trying!” Amanda said slashing as hard as she could.

The Megid ball floated closer. Small chunks of rock pelted the floor.

“No.” Amanda growled.

The ball floated closer still.

“No!” Amanda cried continuing to slash the rock.

The ball reached the front pillar and started to go through the rock.

“No!” Amanda screamed.

A giant explosion erupted in the control room. It blasted away the pillars and tossed Elenor clear. Deepfreeze and Lisa were blasted against the wall. Volt Opt was blown to pieces. Amanda stood with one hand stretched out. Her eyes rolled back and she collapsed. Deepfreeze dropped his shot and ran to her. Lisa picked up his gun but stayed there. Elenor reached Amanda first. She quickly checked the Newman over then nodded with a smile.

“She’s still alive.”

“I’ve warned her about losing control of her mental energy.” Deepfreeze sighed pulling a monofluid from his pack.

Amanda slowly opened her eyes but she couldn’t focus. Everything was blurred and dark. Something touched her lips and a warm sweet liquid started trickling down her throat. She grabbed the bottle and gulped down the contents. Her mind began to focus. Her vision cleared to a smiling pink android. Deepfreeze leaned in behind her.

“How do you feel?” He asked.

“Better.” Amanda nodded and slowly climbed to her feet.

“You know you have to keep control of your techniques!” Deepfreeze said softly.

“I know.” Amanda nodded, “There wasn’t time to even think. I just reacted.”

“And saved my life.” Elenor grinned, “Thank you.”

Lisa found herself giggling with joy. She had been very frightened for her friend and now that she was all right Lisa couldn’t help but laugh. She just stopped laughing when something hit her hard in the back sending her flat on her face. She looked back to see three Dimenian strolling out of the tunnel. They let out their ghostly roar and started for the other hunters.

“Uh oh.” Amanda gasped pointing.

“This is what I was afraid of.” Deepfreeze said reaching back for his gun.

It wasn’t there.

“What the…” He started then remembered dropping it, “Ah crap.”

He quickly drew his Ruby Bullet and fired at the lead Dimenian. Amanda charged the one on the right while Elenor fired at the left. Lisa quickly climbed to her feet lifting the big shot. She looked it over quickly finding the target lock. She locked on to the Dimenians and fired. The recoil knocked her back.

“Now who’d design a photon weapon like that?” She grumbled.

She got up and fired again. She was ready this time and easily maintained her footing. The Dimenians didn’t stand a chance. Deepfreeze stepped by the puddles of purple blood. He took his gun from Lisa and stowed his Ruby Bullet.

“This is why the ruins need to be sealed.” He said.

“It’s not like we haven’t been trying.” Amanda shrugged.

“Volt Opt’s defeated.” Lisa said, “They should be able to do it now, right?”

“I’ll contact the lab and have them send a team down,” Elenor said tapping her arm.

“Good.” Deepfreeze gave her a nod, “Now we have a hound to catch.”

With no one being allowed access to the ruins for so long the dark creature count was way up. Deepfreeze began to wonder if this is what it was like when Rico had first entered here. He’d have to ask her sometime. Each room they entered contained puddles of blood and yet they still had to fight their way through. It was amazing that Kireek had made it this far on his own but then Dark Falz might be helping him out. He found him self wondering what Falz’s body would look like. Would it be the same as Rico’s form or would it change to reflect its new host. Could Falz even use a mechanical body or did it have to be flesh. So many questions started flooding his mind. Questions he hoped he’d never have answers too. They reached the mid point of level two with only the trail of purple blood to tell them Kireek had been here. At this rate there was no way they’d catch him. The last of the Delsabers would normally unlock the door. In this case the door was already unlocked. One thing Kireek had done was make sure the doors were all unlocked for them. Getting past the monsters was the trick.

“This is taking too long!” Amanda exclaimed tearing off the Delsabers left arm.

“You are becoming quite the morbid little girl.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“Look who’s talking.” Amanda replied stuffing the arm in her pack.

“You too are perfect for each other.” Lisa giggled.

Deepfreeze and Amanda both shot her a stern look. Lisa buttoned up then turned to Elenor when the others looked away.

“What’d I say?” She shrugged.

“I don’t know.” Elenor shook her head, “I don’t always understand humans.”

“I’m glad you’re here.” Lisa smiled, “I have someone I can talk too.”

“Yes, it’s quite refreshing having some one other than the Doctor to talk too.” Elenor smiled back, “He’s the hardest one to understand.”

“That’s for sure.” Lisa laughed, “His own species doesn’t even understand him.”

“Are you two coming?” Deepfreeze called.

The two androids laughed then ran to catch up.

“You two are beginning to scare me.” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Sorry.” Lisa said looking down.

“I’m sorry.” Elenor smiled.

Deepfreeze stared at them for a moment then slowly turned away. They continued the slow long battle to the transporter for level three. The monster population increased the closer they got. Finally they reached that red rippling booth that would take them to the final level. Deepfreeze took a deep breath and stepped into the transporter. He reappeared just in time to see the door close behind a short dark figure.

“Rico?” He frowned.

The others appeared behind him. He ran out in to the room with out checking to make sure it was safe.

“Hey wait!” Amanda called but he was gone, “That was weird.”

“Yes, it was unusually reckless.” Elenor nodded.

“Come on.” Amanda waved, “We better go save his butt.”

The room was empty. No purple blood, no monster, no Kireek, and no dark figure. Deepfreeze stood in the middle of the room trying to decide which of the two doors he’d take. Amanda ran up to him and gave him a shot in the arm.

“What’s the big idea?”

“I thought I saw someone walk in here right when I materialized in.” Deepfreeze replied rubbing his arm.

“Someone else is here?” Lisa asked looking around.

“If it’s who I think it is, we need to get her out of here.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“The girl in the cloak?” Lisa squinted.

“What girl?” Amanda frowned, “What have you been doing while you were away?”

“Now she sounds like a jealous girlfriend.” Elenor whispered.

Lisa giggled. Amanda turned and shot them a scowl. The two androids quickly stopped.

“Newman hearing remember?” Amanda smirked.

“It’s the girl that made us our enhanced weapons.” Deepfreeze said, “She’s ill and might do something very stupid down here.”

“Then let’s go find her.” Amanda shrugged, “After all, we owe her.”

“So which way?” Lisa asked.

“We don’t have time to search both directions.” Deepfreeze said, “Lisa, take Elenor and go that way. Amanda and I will take this door.”

“Uh OK.” Lisa replied looking quite shocked.

Deepfreeze exited the room before anyone could say anything else. Amanda turned to the little android.

“Don’t worry, you’ll do fine.” She smiled, “If you have any problems, just ask Elenor.”

“You should be leading a team.” Lisa shook her head.

“We won’t be separated for long.” Amanda said patting Lisa’s shoulder.

She hurried through the door leaving the androids alone. Elenor turned and headed for the other door. Lisa stood looking at Amanda’s door for a moment then followed Elenor out. The next room had a pack of claws circling a Bullclaw. Elenor slowly entered the room. Lisa followed her in drawing her hand gun. Elenor aimed at the Bullclaw and fired. The shot didn’t instantly kill the creature. Lisa watched as it started twitching and floating in haphazard patterns. After only fifteen to twenty seconds the creature let out one last wail and died.

“Interesting.” Elenor said, “I’d better turn up the potency. With just the two of us, we’ll need them to die a lot quicker.”

“Just don’t hit me with it.” Lisa frowned and fired.

She took four shots before her claw died. Elenor finished the others quickly with one shot each.

“I wish I had a gun like that.” Lisa gasped.

“I’ll talk to the Doctor for you.” Elenor smiled, “We need to be careful. The virus doesn’t seem to work on Chaos Sorcerers or Chaos Bringers.”

“Then let’s hope we don’t run in to any.” Lisa grinned.

They passed through several rooms following the trail of blood Kireek had left. They were running in to many more of the higher ranked creatures here. Delsabers, Dark Belra, and Sol Dimenian were the predominate species with the odd Chaos Sorcerer. It was almost too much for two fairly inexperienced androids. Elenor had more than Lisa but most of her time was spent in the lab now. Things started turning worse for them as Del-D’s and Dark Bringers started to appear. They just finished clearing a pack of Merlins when a large blue object knocked Lisa flat on her stomach. Another flew by then another. Elenor dove out of the way as the rapid fire gave no sign of stopping. She looked up to see an Indi Belra firing its arms with mindless relentlessness. Elenor started to charge but was quickly knocked back. Lisa climbed to her feet.

“Stay there!” She called.

She ran forward lining herself up dead center of the Belra. It continued to fire but Lisa was safe. It couldn’t hit her. She stood firm firing until it died.

“Where’d you learn that?” Elenor asked.

“Cerberus showed me that little trick.” Lisa shrugged.

“I’ll have to remember that one.” Elenor said checking the power pack on her rifle.

They stepped through the unlocked door in to the long hallway. Lisa looked around then shrugged. As they entered the final chamber they heard someone talking at the far end of the room. The two girls quietly crept around the long pillar that was the trademark for this room. Lisa peered around to where the voice was. It was Kireek and he was standing in front of the Dark Falz door. It was open and the transporter was active. He was having a conversation with some one but they could only hear his side.

“You still haven’t told me why I’m here.” Kireek called.

He paused for a minute looking down then up at the pulsing beams of the transporter.

“If it’s not me you want then who?” Kireek asked.

Another pause.

“The girl is here?” Kireek grumbled, “You want her?”

He paused again twirling his Soul Eater twice.

“No, then who?”

Kireek looked behind him. Lisa and Elenor ducked back. Kireek shrugged and turned to the transporter.

“Why the southern island?” Kireek frowned, “What is there?”

Pause.

“I see.” Kireek nodded, “If I do this will you release me?”

Pause.

“I suppose that is true.” Kireek sighed, “Very well, it will be done.”

He turned and walked away from the door. The androids waited until it was clear then ran up to the door. It remained open, even when they stepped back.

“I wonder if it knows we are here.” Lisa pondered.

As if to answer her, four Delsabers, a pack of claws, three Del-Ds, one Chaos Sorcerer, a Dark Bringer, and three Indi Belra appeared.

“Ya it knows.” Elenor nodded.

“We can’t fight all this.” Lisa gasped.

“Then we run.” Elenor said grabbing Lisa’s wrist.

The monsters closed in around the androids. Elenor blasted any that got in front of her. They were no match for the virus that now flowed through their purple blood. The rangers made it to the door but that didn’t stop the monsters. They followed the androids right out the door.

“No, that’s impossible.” Lisa gasped.

“We never did discover why these creatures would never leave a room.” Elenor said breaking into a run, “Guess it doesn’t matter now.”

They scurried down the long hallway with a Dark Bringer clopping right behind them. Lisa twisted and took a single shot at its right front hoof, causing the beast to trip. The girls burst through the doorway and skidded to a stop. Kireek stood in the center of the room glaring at them with his now red glowing eyes. Black lines swirled around inside them like smoke caught on a gentle breeze. He stamped the butt end of his Soul Eater on the ground.

“You were foolish to follow me here.” He said in a ghostly voice.

“We came to help you.” Elenor said.

“No you didn’t.” Kireek shook his head, “You came to stop me.”

“OK.” Lisa whispered, “Now what?”

“Kireek I…” Elenor began.

“Enough talk!” Kireek boomed leaping at them, “Now you die!”

He swung down catching Lisa in the shield. The shield didn’t stop the cursed weapon but it did slow it down enough that it didn’t take her arm off. It did cut through her forearm cuff and halfway through the arm. He pulled away causing even more damage. Kireek then swung sideways at Elenor. She jumped back but the scythe caught her rifle slicing it in two. Lisa aimed and fired. The bullets caught Kireek in the left shoulder knocking him off balance. Elenor charged forward ploughing her shoulder into his chest. Kireek fell flat on his back.

“Run!” Elenor yelled.

They ran for the door leaving a freeze trap behind. Kireek jumped to his feet just as the trap went off. The ice only held him for a second. He broke free completely enraged. He charged after them like an angry bull. Lisa and Elenor ran from room to room dodging the dark creatures that tried to stop them. A Dark Sorcerer appeared unleashing its Grants on Lisa. She was knocked to the floor. Elenor ran back and hauled her to her feet. Lisa’s energy was severely drained but she managed to push on. Kireek snorted and growled as he closed in on his prey. The girls hurried through two more doors only to run into a dead end. They turned to go back but Kireek was blocking the door.

“And now.” He grinned, “You die.”



<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-10-26 12:44 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY THREE

This was the long way to Dark Falz and they had yet to see any evidence Kireek had been this way. That didn’t mean Rico hadn’t come this way. Deepfreeze stepped through the open door and immediately started choking. He quickly stepped back and allowed the door to close.

“Poison.” He choked.

Amada stepped up to the door and peered in. It was dark but she could see the glow of the switch on the far side of the room.

“There’s the switch.” She pointed.

“We’d never make it.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “The potency of the gas is a lot higher than the last time I was here.”

Amanda stood thinking for a moment.

“Turn around.” She said.

“Huh?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“I need my undershirt.” Amanda frowned, “Now turn around.”

Deepfreeze nodded and quickly made a one eighty degree spin. Amanda quickly pulled both her shirts off then quickly replaced her uniform shirt.

“OK I’m decent again.” She smiled.

“What exactly are you planning?” Deepfreeze asked.

“I can make that run.” She replied pulling a bottle of monofluid from her pack, “I just need a little help.”

She poured the liquid over her shirt then tied it tightly around her face.

“Be ready to cover me.” She said.

“This is not a good idea.” Deepfreeze grumbled.

“Wish me luck.” Amanda waved.

She ran as fast as her legs would carry her. Deepfreeze had to admit she was much faster then he was. She made it halfway when the poison started to burn her lungs. She held her breath for as long as she could before inhaling a tiny amount of air. It helped but now she was getting light headed. She reached for the switch stumbling and falling. The poison was now starting to burn her eyes and skin. She scampered to the switch on all fours finally reaching it. The switch started to pulse as the ventilation system cleared the room. Deepfreeze walked over to a floor switch in the near by corner and turned on the lights. Amanda gasped as a figure appeared right beside her. It was the red haired girl in the black cloak sitting with her arms wrapped around her legs.

“You.” Amanda pointed.

The girl looked up but said nothing. Half her face still remained hidden. Deepfreeze stopped beside Amanda and looked down at the girl.

“What are you doing here?” Deepfreeze asked, “I thought you were going to stop Kireek.”

“Kireek?” The girl replied looking up, “Oh yes, I was following him then I ended up here. I couldn’t remember why I had come.”

“What happened to you?” Deepfreeze asked.

“I heard the voice.” The girl said, “That’s all I could hear. That’s all I knew.”

“I thought he wasn’t calling you anymore?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“He’s calling everyone now.” The girl started to cry, “Even those who can’t hear him yet.”

“What does that mean?” Amanda frowned.

Deepfreeze just shrugged.

“All I hear now is him.” The girl sniffed looking down at her feet, “Except you but that’s because you’re so close.”

“We have to get you out of here.” Deepfreeze said.

“It’s too late for that.” The girl snapped, “I’ve lost. I can’t control it anymore. You must keep your promise.”

“Not yet.” Deepfreeze said, “You’re not lost yet.”

“You promised.” The girl yelled jumping to her feet, “You ahh.”

She grabbed her head and screamed.

“Rico let me help you.” Deepfreeze said holding out his hand.

“Rico.” Amanda gasped.

“Yes Rico.” Rico growled pulling her cloak off, “But not Rico.”

Amanda yelped as Rico glared at her with inhuman eyes. The bruising on her skin had gotten worse and now thin purple veins stretched out from each bruise like spider webs.

“I frighten you don’t I.” Rico glared.

“A little.” Amanda replied in a pitch higher than she liked, “But only by the way you’re acting.”

“Liar!” Rico cried, “My appearance frightens you. You should be afraid. I am part of him. The life pod of his flesh before you all murdered him. You should have died. Become one with his spirit like everyone else. No, you had to attack him, kill him, and leave me trapped in this hell!”

Tears poured from her eyes but she didn’t back down. Deepfreeze and Amanda were helpless at this point.

“But wait.” Rico continued holding up a finger, “He’s not dead. Even now he speaks. You can’t kill him. He’s pure darkness and darkness can not be destroyed. You’ll be a part of him soon. When I rejoin with him he’ll have his body back and consume you all. The day of Armageddon is upon you.”

Rico took off through an open door with an inhuman speed. Deepfreeze and Amanda stood stunned for a moment.

“We have to stop her.” Deepfreeze said shaking his head and went after Rico.

“I thought Rico was dead?” Amanda called chasing after him.

“So did most people.” Deepfreeze replied.

They kept up just enough to catch the door closing that Rico had passed through. She was headed straight for Dark Falz.

“So you were right all along.” Amanda said, “You and Ash.”

“I knew what I saw.” Deepfreeze said puffing slightly, “I just didn’t know the circumstances behind it.”

“What was she talking about?” Amanda asked, “Why does she look like that?”

“Her body is made of Falz body.” Deepfreeze replied, “Her spirit was trapped in it. She is Rico but she’s not human. Her only problem really is that being part of Falz she hears and feels him. I intend on rescuing her from that.”

“What promise was she talking about?”

“She made me promise that if she lost control I’d kill her before she could hurt anyone.” Deepfreeze said with great sadness, “I will do that as a last resort.”

Amanda nodded but chose to remain quiet. This was a great weight placed upon her friend and she would help him whether he knew it or not. They passed into a large empty room. Rico was just exiting through the door on the far side.

“We’re catching up.” Amanda said chasing after her.

Deepfreeze followed but he hung back. Something was bothering him. His instincts were warning him of danger. He slowly entered the room. Rico and Amanda reached the middle of the room and were instantly surrounded. Every type of dark monster appeared. Rico drew her Red Sabre and attacked. Amanda fished her daggers from her pack and went to work on a couple of Do Dimenians that had moved in on her. Deepfreeze laid down cover fire with his shot. This got the attention of a Delsaber that had been moving in on the girls. With one giant leap it crossed the room slashing as it landed. Deepfreeze blocked with his shield of Delsaber but the sheer weight of the creature knocked him to the ground. The Delsaber slashed away trying to get to the ranger. Deepfreeze held off the attack with his shield and drew his hand gun. He fired a single shot. The Delsaber fell over with a smouldering hole in its chest. Deepfreeze stowed the gun and quickly climbed to his feet. He continued to lay down cover fire taking some of the pressure off the girls. Amanda tried using her techniques but her mind hadn’t fully recovered from the last blast, and the creatures weren’t giving her enough time to concentrate. The dark creatures continued to close in on the two hunters. There were just too many for them to handle. Deepfreeze switched to his techniques as a last resort to help his friends but his level was too low to do any real damage. He continued to use his Barta keeping some of the creatures frozen until he used up his TP then switched back to his shot. The dark creatures moved in for the kill. The girls disappeared from his view.

“No.” He shook his head, “NO!”

The monsters slashed at their targets. There was a bright flash then a purple wave flew out from the center. The monsters vanished as the wave past over them. Deepfreeze lowered his left arm that he used to shield his eyes. Amanda was sitting in a ball. Rico was standing over her with her arms raised. She was breathing heavily.

“What was that?” Deepfreeze gasped.

“Just a little gift from Falz.” Rico replied helping Amanda to her feet, “I figured it was time he had a taste of his own medicine.”

“Are you alright?” Deepfreeze asked.

“I’m alright for now.” Rico nodded.

“I’m fine too.” Amanda pushed past him jabbing him in the chest.

“Aren’t you going after her?” Rico asked.

“Huh?” Deepfreeze said looking down at her, “She can take care of herself.”

“That’s not how she needs you.” Rico frowned, “Are you really that thick. Even I can see it.”

“What about you?” Deepfreeze asked, “I promised to help you.”

“I may be your friend but remember I’m already dead.” Rico said slapping his arm, “She is a living breathing woman who you’ve hurt once already but she forgave you. That’s extremely rare these days. Don’t drive her away. Now get over there and help that girl.”

Deepfreeze just stared at Rico for a moment. She stared right back with her alien eyes. She was right. He liked Rico. She had a strength that demanded respect and a softness that would always be there to take care of you. In another life he and she might have had something but not here, not now. She was dead plain and simple. Only her spirit remained and he kept forgetting that. Amanda was a lot like Rico but she was alive and hurting right now. Deepfreeze nodded and turned to his friend. Amanda was standing in the corner facing the wall.

“Hey.” Deepfreeze said softly.

“Hey.” She sniffled wiping away the tears.

She had been crying but didn’t want him to know. He pretended not to notice.

“I’m sorry.” He said, “I just got so absorbed in my job I just didn’t see.”

“Is that how it’s always going to be?” Amanda looked at him with blood shot eyes.

“No.” He shook his head, “When you told me I was like a big brother I used that excuse to leave. I kept telling myself you’d understand and wouldn’t mind that much. I should have known better.”

“It’s not all your fault.” Amanda said, “I shouldn’t have told you but I wasn’t sure how I felt about you. After meeting some of the other guys on Pioneer I began to realize what I had in you. The longer you were gone the more it hurt.”

“From now on I’m going to keep my original promise to look after you.” Deepfreeze smiled, “Even when it doesn’t mean watching your back.”

She jumped up and wrapped her arms around him hugging him tight.

“I’m never letting you leave me again.” She whispered.

Deepfreeze just hugged her back. Rico stood smiling and nodding her head. She suddenly became dizzy and fell to her knees. The voice was back. It wasn’t talking directly to her but the pull was back. She stood up and started to leave. The others hadn’t noticed her yet. She wanted to cry for help but couldn’t. She simply turned and walked out. Amanda opened her eyes just in time to see Rico walk out the door.

“Hey, she’s leaving.”

“What?” Deepfreeze exclaimed setting her down, “We’ve got to stop her.”

When they arrived at the chamber Rico was standing in front of the open door staring in to the transporter beam. Deepfreeze approached slowly with Amanda just behind him.

“Rico.” He said calmly, “Please step away from the door.”

“Stay back.” Rico replied.

“Come on now.” Deepfreeze said, “We want to help you.”

“You can’t.” Rico shook her head, “No one can.”

“That’s not true.” Deepfreeze started.

“It is true.” Rico snapped glaring at him, “Look at me. I’m trapped with no escape. His voice is constantly in my head. Only he can free me, no matter what it takes.”

“I don’t want to hurt you but I can’t let you go in there.” Deepfreeze said drawing his hand gun.

“Try and stop me.” Rico grinned evilly.

She turned and jumped. Deepfreeze fired. The shot went wide. Rico disappeared in the transporter.








<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Freeze on 2007-11-01 17:26 ]</font>

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR

“NO!” Deepfreeze cried running to the door.

“You missed.” Amanda gasped, “You never miss at this range.”

“I missed.” Deepfreeze gasped, “Even with her supper human speed I should not have missed.”

“Maybe it’s because you wanted to miss.” Amanda said.

“Amanda!” Deepfreeze shot.

“She’s your friend.” Amanda shrugged, “You didn’t really want to see her die. I didn’t either.”

“I do not let my personal feelings interfere with my duties.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“Bull!” Amanda spat, “You’re human just like the rest of us. You couldn’t kill her any easier than you could kill Cerberus!”

“I…” Deepfreeze began.

Rico reappeared and fell at their feet. She didn’t move. The purple marks were gone from her face. Deepfreeze knelt down to check her vitals.

“Is she dead?” Amanda asked.

“No.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “She’s breathing but it’s very shallow.”

“Maybe I can help.” Amanda said.

She closed her eyes and concentrated. The shimmering effect of Resta floated over Rico. She moaned and opened her eyes. The two hunters gasped.

“I’m back.” Rico groaned, “He didn’t want me.”

“Rico, your eyes.” Amanda said, “They’re normal.”

“And the bruises are gone.” Deepfreeze smiled.

“What!” Rico exclaimed sitting up.

Amanda pulled a small mirror from her pack and handed it to Rico. She stared at the human face for what seemed like hours. It was actually only a minute or two.

“I can’t believe it.” Rico gasped, "The voice is gone too. One thing I need to know.”

“What’s that?” Amanda asked.

Rico held up a fore finger then pulled a small knife from her pocket. She held out her hand and pricked her finger tip. A small drop of purple blood ran down the side of her finger. She sighed and slumped.

“I guess that was too much to hope for.”

“Don’t worry about it Rico.” Amanda smiled, “No one will be able to tell and now you’re free right?”

“Yes.” Rico nodded, “And I learned something too.”

“What?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“We have a lot more to worry about than me becoming Dark Falz again.” Rico shrugged.

“He didn’t want you.” Amanda pointed, “He wants someone else.”

“Yes and it’s not Kireek.” Rico shook her head, “Speaking of which, Lisa and Elenor are in danger. Come on.”

Rico jumped to her feet and took off at a full run. Deepfreeze and Amanda stayed close on her heels. It seemed that her super human abilities were gone now too. They rushed through several rooms ignoring the creatures that were too slow to stop them. They found Kireek standing in front of a door. He looked ready to strike.

“And now you die.” He said.

“Kireek stop!” Rico shouted.

Kireek spun and growled.

“You!” He shouted, “How dare you interrupt me!”

“I won’t let you hurt them.” Rico pointed.

Kireek stepped out of the door and walked over to Rico. He looked her over then laughed.

“He rejected you.” He chuckled, “Look how small you’ve become. You are no longer a threat.”

Lisa and Elenor quietly crept out of the room and ran to Deepfreeze. Kireek ignored them.

“I’m still just as much a threat as I ever was!” Rico shot, “And with my friends, you are no match!”

“You forget, I have friends too!” Kireek laughed.

A very bad feeling shot up Deepfreeze’s spine. He grabbed Rico’s shoulder.

“We need to leave right now.” He said.

“But we’ve got him out numbered.” Rico replied waving her hand.

“No we don’t.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“If he says we should leave then we should go.” Amanda said.

Lisa and Elenor headed for the door. Amanda followed but she stayed close enough to help if they needed it.

“Now Rico!” Deepfreeze said with a raised voice.

Rico actually jumped with fright. She nodded and slowly walked away.

“Cowards come back!” Kireek shouted, “Typical of you Ice Ranger. Always running away!”

Deepfreeze turned and pointed at Kireek.

“This isn’t over android!” He yelled, “I’m not stupid enough to fight you on his turf!”

Deepfreeze turned and ran to catch up with the others.

“COME BACK HERE!” Kireek screamed, “YOU WILL NOT ESCAPE HERE ALIVE!”

“He sure knows how to get dramatic.” Amanda smiled as they left him behind.

“Something very bad is coming.” Deepfreeze said.

“Don’t say that.” Amanda shook her head, “Every time you say that, something bad happens.”

“I have an instinct for it.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Too bad you don’t have instincts for other things.” Amanda grumbled.

They made it to the central room on level two that had been dubbed the engine room of the ruin space craft. The four pods along the sides usually pulsed with electricity were eerily quiet. Deepfreeze’s mind screamed danger.

“This is very bad.” Elenor said.

“What’s wrong?” Lisa asked.

“The power has been routed away from the generator.” Elenor replied pointing at the pods, “This means the transporters are most likely down and the lights won’t last very long.”

“Then we teleport out.” Lisa shrugged.

She pulled a telepipe out and dropped it on the floor. Nothing happened.

“Not this again.” Lisa moaned slowly shaking her head.

“Dark Falz has set up a shield around the ruins.” Rico said, “He must be concentrating on us right now. It would take all his concentration to do this in his current condition.”

“I don’t know.” Deepfreeze said looking around, “He caused that giant explosion when he was in this state.”

“No, he was much more powerful then.” Rico shook her head, “The battle against the hunters left him drained. That’s why he’s been so quiet since. He’s been waiting for a powerful new host to restore his power.”

“And he’s found it.” Amanda said.

Rico nodded, “On the island.”

The whole room shook. Two giant stone statues peeled out of the walls. They looked very much like the Indi Belra only much bigger. The floor shook with each step. The lights went out for a second then came on again. The generators had powered up again. Kireek stood between the statues.

“I told you, you won’t leave here alive!” He roared.

The statues were slow but they were blocking the way out and no doubt possessed enough strength to do some real damage. Elenor looked back to see if they could retreat.

“The door’s locked.” She said.

“Then the only way out is through them.” Rico nodded at the statues.

“I was afraid of that.” Deepfreeze grumbled.

“I shall enjoy watching you die!” Kireek laughed.

“I may not have my dark powers!” Rico yelled, “But I’m still a hunter!”

She drew her Red Sabre and charged. Amanda charged with her. Lisa and Elenor each took a statue to help the hunters. Deepfreeze holstered his Final Impact and charged straight for Kireek.

“What are you doing?” Elenor shouted as he ran by.

Kireek saw him charging and smirked. He held his Soul Eater ready.

“No weapon?” Kireek smirked, “You have lost your mind!”

Deepfreeze said nothing. Kireek couldn’t tell where it had come from but one second the ranger was empty handed and the next he was holding a long medieval style sword. The blade was bright shiny silver. The hilt was polished gold with two serpent heads curving out and towards the blade. The butt end of the hilt was crafted on into a dragons head.

“Surprise.” Deepfreeze smiled as he swung down.

Kireek blocked it with his Soul Eater. Sparks flew from the impact. Deepfreeze’s sword remained unblemished. The Soul Eater had a small knick in it. Kireek scowled as he looked at his weapon.

“Impossible!” He yelled, “Nothing can hurt my Soul Eater!”

“Except the Spirit Guard.” Deepfreeze grinned.

“Such a weapon is only legend.” Kireek scoffed.

“A cursed weapon of evil such as the Soul Eater always has a counter weapon.” Deepfreeze said, “For every evil there is a good. They may not take opposite forms but they do exist.”

Kireek screamed and attacked swinging viciously. Deepfreeze blocked every attack but was unable to take the offensive. Kireek finally let up. He stood glaring at the sword.

“How is it you possess such a powerful sword?” Kireek growled.

“Old family heirloom.” Deepfreeze smiled swinging at the android.

The battle had drawn the attention of everyone in the room including the creatures Amanda had dubbed Omni Belra. Apparently even Dark Falz was interested in this fight and needed the statues eyes to see.

“Then why have I not seen this before?” Kireek asked blocking his attack.

“On its own the Spirit Guard isn’t that powerful a weapon.” Deepfreeze replied pushing against Kireek, “But against your Soul Eater it has no match.”

Kireek pushed off then swung at the ranger. Deepfreeze blocked then responded with a chop.

“The more powerful your Soul Eater becomes.” Deepfreeze said jumping away from another swing, “So does my Spirit Guard.”

This was enough for Dark Falz. He sent his monsters back on the other hunters.

“I will take that weapon from your cold dead hands!” Kireek cried.

He swung down in a full chop. Deepfreeze blocked then swung back. Kireek jumped back then swung across Deepfreeze’s chest. He blocked and returned with a chop. Kireek missed the block. The sword grazed his shoulder taking off the paint. Kireek growled and jabbed with the butt end then transitioned to a chop. Deepfreeze twisted away from the attack and blocked the chop. He returned with a poke that Kireek drove aside. They parried around the room some how avoiding the stomping creatures. Rico and Lisa’s creature finally fell with a great crash. It almost squashed the two sword fighters. They ignored it. Rico and Lisa turned to help Amanda and Elenor with their monster. Deepfreeze managed to gain the offensive driving Kireek up against the wall.

“It ends here, android.” Deepfreeze said.

He swung down with all his might. Kireek held up his scythe to block. There was a loud clash and the sword cut the scythe in two.

“No!” Kireek cried.

“Your evil ends along with your revenge.” Deepfreeze exhaled.

He took another chop. The second statue fell. Just as the Spirit Guard was about to strike the lights went out. They immediately flashed back on. Kireek was gone leaving only his echo.

“Not today ranger.”

The others ran over to him. Amanda looked down at the ruined Soul Eater then jabbed Deepfreeze in the arm.

“Why didn’t you tell us about this earlier?”

“I have to keep this a secret.” Deepfreeze said, “If word got out that this sword actually exists then every thief on the planet would be trying to steal it.”

He held the sword up. It had turned from shiny and bright to dull and worn.

“As I said, it’s not much of a weapon on its own.” Deepfreeze sighed.

“What happened to it?” Lisa asked.

“Without the Soul Eater it has no power.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “One can not exist without the other. They are linked. It’s just a worn out antique now.”

“Then why not destroy this weapon to destroy the Soul Eater?” Amanda asked.

“If it were only that simple.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “Unlike the Spirit Guard, the Soul Eater feeds off it owner. It draws its power from there. The Spirit Guard draws its power from the Soul Eater.”

“It’s a shame really.” Amanda sighed, “It was really a beautiful weapon.”

“Well it’s still a family heirloom.” Deepfreeze sighed, “Kireek is still out there and no doubt he’s been sent to the southern island.”

They all filed out of the room and headed for the surface. Lisa was the last to leave. As she stepped through the door she took one last look at the defeated scythe. It vanished. She gasped and ran after the others.

“Hey, the Soul Eater disappeared.” She called.

Deepfreeze held up his sword. Its brilliance had returned.

“And Kireek is linked to the Soul Eater.” He said, “When one exists so does the other.”

“So to destroy the Soul Eater we have to kill Kireek too.” Elenor said.

“And as long as he’s useful to Dark Falz he won’t let Kireek die.” Deepfreeze sighed.

“Then we have to get to that island and stop him for good.” Amanda said clenching her fist.

“There’s not a moment to lose.” Rico said.

The group ran as hard as they could back to the surface. The maintenance crew was waiting to put the blast door in place.

“Seal er up boys.” Deepfreeze waved.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY FIVE

They returned to the ship through the main transporter then headed straight for the lab. Elly was pacing at the door to the lab warp.

“What’s going on?” Deepfreeze asked.

She froze staring at Rico.

“Elly.” Deepfreeze said snapping his fingers, “Elly come in.”

“Huh, what?” Elly sputtered, “That’s… that’s…”

“Red Ring Rico.” Deepfreeze sighed, “Yes I know.”

“Pleased to meet you.” Rico smiled with a curtsy.

“But… I thought you were dead.” Elly sputtered.

“Should have listened to Deepfreeze.” Rico laughed, “He’s been preaching my existence forever.”

“What are you doing out here?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Security has the lab sealed off.” Elly shrugged, “Sue and Nighthawk escaped.”

“What about the others?” Deepfreeze snapped.

Elly took a step back and looked as though she was about to cry.

“I’m sorry.” Deepfreeze apologised, “That came out wrong.”

“The rest of Black Paper is still in custody.” Elly replied.

“With the lab sealed we can’t get to the southern island.” Rico shook her head slowly.

“Yes we can.” Amanda snapped her fingers, “The shuttle in the docking bay.”

“It’s our only shot right now.” Deepfreeze said leading his team away.

“Good luck.” Elly called.

Everyone they passed stopped and stared. Some whispered between each other but nobody was quite sure what to make of Rico. Unfortunately word travels fast on Pioneer Two. By the time they reached the shuttle bay nearly everyone on the ship had converged on their location. Deepfreeze had to fight to get his team through the crowd. He made sure Rico was between him and Amanda. Lisa and Elenor provided shielding on either side of Rico. The doors to the shuttle bay opened up. Deepfreeze’s team piled in sealing the door behind them. They turned to the parked shuttles only to find an armed security detachment blocking their way.

“This just isn’t my day.” Deepfreeze sighed.

The center guards stepped aside and Principal Tyrell stepped forward. He glared at Deepfreeze for a moment.

“So it’s true.” He said, “You’ve returned to the ship. I was glad when I heard the rumour. Then I heard you had brought something very precious to me back with you. I didn’t believe it possible but I had to make sure.”

“Yes Sir.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“I know you have been saying it since you returned from the ruins.” Tyrell said flatly, “When all the others said she was dead you said she was alive. Then Ash, your only supporter, had that nervous breakdown I figured you were suffering from the same dementia as he. You were just so dang good at your job I had no choice but to turn to you. Now I see you weren’t crazy at all.”

“Thank you Sir.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Rico, my baby girl.” Tyrell started to weep, “Why didn’t you come back to me? Why did you make me wait?”

“I’m sorry father but I couldn’t see you in my condition.” Rico started to cry too.

She couldn’t hold back any longer. She ran into her father arms. Tears streamed down her face. Every one stood silent allowing father and daughter to have their moment.

“I’m so sorry father.” Rico cried, “I just couldn’t come back. Dark Falz took everything I was. When the hunters defeated Falz my spirit was released but it remained with a chunk of his body that formed my own.”

“I don’t understand.” Tyrell said looking into his daughters eyes.

“She’s not human.” Deepfreeze said stepping forward, “Her body is made of D-cell material. She looked very much like a monster before, demanding she stay under cover.”

“You look fine to me.” Tyrell said.

“That’s because Dark Falz rejected me.” Rico said sniffing back tears, “Everything I had from him, he took back. Purple blood still runs through my veins. Your daughter died that day. I’m just an image. A fake created to house my trapped spirit. That is why I didn’t return.”

“No, no you are my daughter.” Tyrell shook his head.

“Only her spirit.” Rico said pulling away, “And I have work to do.”

“What, no.” Tyrell said shaking his head, “I’m not letting you go again. I should have stopped you before but now I won’t make that mistake again.”

“You don’t have a choice father.” Rico shrugged, “Dark Falz is alive and he’s searching for a new host. We have to stop him.”

“They can stop him.” Tyrell nodded at the hunters, “You are coming home young lady.”

“No I’m not.” Rico shook her head, “I am going to the planet. I have to help save our people. You can’t protect me any longer. I’m dead plan and simple. You have a chance to say goodbye. Don’t ruin it by fighting with me.”

“No I won’t lose you.” Tyrell glared.

“You already lost me.” Rico cried, “I’m not Rico Tyrell.”

She pulled out her knife and cut her left palm. She held it up so they could see the purple blood oozing from the wound. It seemed thicker than the last time Deepfreeze had seen it. Tyrell stepped forward and took his daughters hand. He pulled out a handkerchief and carefully wrapped her hand.

“I don’t care what colour your blood is.” He said softly. “You’re still my daughter and I love you.”

“Then let me save our people.” Rico replied.

“Rico, may I see your hand.” Deepfreeze asked.

“For You?” Rico giggled, “Anything.”

Amanda crossed her arms and grumbled. Deepfreeze removed the handkerchief and watched the blood slowly ooze out. He dipped his finger in it and studied it carefully. He didn’t like the looks of it. Rico wrapped up her hand and looked up at him.

“This sample doesn’t look good.” He said softly.

“I know.” Rico sighed, “He didn’t just take my enhancements, he took my life as well.”

“I’m sorry Rico.” Deepfreeze said.

“What are you talking about?” Tyrell asked sternly.

“I’m dying.” Rico replied turning to him.

“What!” Tyrell exclaimed, “You can’t. I don’t understand.”

“Rico is alive because Dark Falz wanted her alive.” Deepfreeze explained, “She’s spent her life fighting him. She wasn’t any use to him so he drew her back to take back the life force he was using to keep her alive.”

“How long does she have?” Tyrell asked looking at his daughter.

“I don’t know.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “I’m not a doctor. I have no way of calculating the decay.”

“That’s not important.” Rico pushed the two men apart, “Kireek is headed for the island to find Falz a new body. We must stop him.”

Tyrell stared at Deepfreeze for a moment. Deepfreeze gave him a single nod. Tyrell turned away from them.

“Go.” He said.

The hunters hurried into one of the larger shuttles. Tyrell and his group quickly cleared the bay. The shuttle lifted off the deck as the bay doors opened. Deepfreeze eased the throttle forward. Rico saw her father standing in the operator’s window that overlooked the bay. She waved goodbye. The shuttle turned and slowly exited through the open door. Deepfreeze angled the shuttle down and dove it into the atmosphere. The shuttles heat shield was more than capable of standing the heat. The fire dissipated giving them their first clear view of the island. The facility at the volcano looked normal. Only the surrounding vegetation showed signs of an explosion. Only the palm trees remained. The destruction stopped in a perfect circle half way across the island. Amanda squeezed between Deepfreeze and Rico to get a better look.

“That’s a weird blast pattern.” She said, “What do you suppose caused that beam of light?”

“Something inside the facility for sure.” Deepfreeze replied, “Hopefully Cerberus or Falcon found something.”

“There’s a landing pad near the base on the east side of the mountain.” Rico reported.

“Thanks, I want to have a good look before we set down.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Look there.” Amanda pointed out the left window, “Have you ever seen plant growth like that before?”

“Never.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“I don’t see the alien space craft anywhere.” Rico said, “That’s the only spot on the island big enough to hide it.”

“That’s also the only spot that has plant growth totally alien to the planet.” Amanda shrugged.

“That should be the first place we look.” Elenor said, “If it is the alien spacecraft then I wouldn’t be surprised it the Doctor has been there.”

“He would want to check on his handy work.” Deepfreeze grumbled.

“Huh?” Amanda frowned.

“You sound bitter.” Rico laughed.

“Doctor Montague brought these aliens here.” Lisa said, “He contacted them in deep space and he told them how to get here.”

“Why?” Amanda asked.

“Exploration.” Elenor shrugged, “Contact with alien species.”

“I thought he was a photon expert.” Amanda frowned.

“It’s a hobby.” Elenor replied.

“A real Jack of all trades huh.” Deepfreeze muttered.

Amanda nodded with a little smile.

“The thing is they didn’t seem interested until he included specs on the planet.” Elenor said.

“That was stupid.” Amanda shook her head, “For a genius he does some really dumb things.”

“He’s a very obsessive man.” Elenor sighed, “It tends to give him tunnel vision.”

“No kidding.” Amanda shook her head.

“I can set the shuttle down on the beach near there.” Deepfreeze said, “We should at least take a look.”

“You’re the pilot.” Rico smiled.

Deepfreeze smiled back and swung the shuttle around for a landing. Amanda snorted, crossed her arms and glared at Rico. Lisa and Elenor looked at each other and shrugged.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY SIX

Cerberus had easily picked up Falcons trail in the sand and followed it until they found Myers dead body. The group had then split up in a standard search pattern making them difficult to follow. Cerberus stood trying to decide their best course of action. His scanner was giving him confusing readings. It told him there were life signs all around them yet they saw nothing. Aphrodite kept twitching her head. It was making HitmanJ very nervous.

“What is it?” He whispered.

“I hear things moving all around us.” She replied, “I don’t know what they could be. It’s a sound I’ve never heard before.”

“I’m detecting movement too.” Cerberus said, “I can’t get a lock on it. It’s too small and it seems to be everywhere.”

“Aphrodite spun to the left and stared. Cerberus also turned to face the same direction. Jesse stepped up beside HitmanJ.

“Is it just me or are they acting weird?”

“When they start acting weird.” HitmanJ replied, “Trouble isn’t far behind.”

“Oh.” Jesse nodded.

“This way!” Aphrodite shouted and took off.

Cerberus ran to catch her. HitmanJ and Jesse followed but at a much slower pace. They trekked through the jungle finally catching up to Cerberus and Aphrodite. They were standing in front of a large vine wall.

“Cool.” Jesse cooed.

HitmanJ tapped the wall with the barrel of his mechguns. The vines squirmed under his touch. He jumped back.

“Geese, they’re alive!” He exclaimed.

“Of coarse they’re alive.” Aphrodite sighed turning around, “They’re plants.

“No, they move.” HitmanJ shook his head.

“How can plants move?” Aphrodite frowned.

“I don’t know but these can.” HitmanJ shrugged.

“I saw it too.” Jesse nodded.

Cerberus touched it with his finger. A vine shot out and wrapped around his wrist. He pulled away tearing off the vine.

“They are very defensive.” He said, “I’m going to try cutting through.”

He drew his sabre and cut a hole in the wall. The alien space craft was inside.

“Bingo.” He said and stepped in.

“Hey!” HitmanJ exclaimed and followed him.

The other two had to hurry to avoid getting sealed out. The hole closed behind them.

“Doesn’t waste time does it?” Jesse said.

Cerberus was already headed around the ship. He found the open hatch and stepped in. The others were a little more reluctant to enter. The phosphorus lighting was beginning to die making it rather dark. Cerberus’ sensors told him much of the interior plant life was also starting to die. He passed through several tunnels until he came upon one that had mummified corpses wrapped along the wall.

“These are people!” Aphrodite gasped.

“Were people.” HitmanJ sighed.

“This whole place appears to be dying.” Cerberus said.

“So where did the crew go?” Jesse asked softly.

“The research facility.” Cerberus said examining the body.

“What makes you say that?” Aphrodite tilted her head.

“Because this one is wearing a lab coat.” Cerberus replied solemnly.

“Oh.” Aphrodite said slumping her shoulders.

“Let’s keep moving.” Cerberus waved, “I don’t think Falcons team is here but I’d still like to have a look around.”

“It’d be nice to see what we’re up against.” HitmanJ smiled slightly.

They rounded a corner and entered a large empty chamber. The roof had been peeled back allowing some light to enter. The vine wall that had covered the ship also had a large hole in it. The end wall of the chamber had a strange indent and most of the vines hanging there were ripped and torn. The floor was covered in strange pods. All of them were empty. Cerberus stood staring at the hole.

“The queen bee lived here.” HitmanJ joked.

“I think you’re right.” Cerberus replied.

“Huh?” HitmanJ frowned at the android.

“Something very large lived here.” Cerberus said pointing at the wall, “Then crawled up through that hole and most likely flew away.”

“I don’t think I like the sound of that.” Aphrodite cried hugging her staff.

“That extinct volcano is the perfect hiding spot for something this big.” HitmanJ thought aloud.

“Exactly.” Cerberus nodded.

He turned and rushed out. The hike from the ship to the research facility went smoothly
although they did hear strange barking noises that sent a chill up Cerberus’ electronic spine. He didn’t want to frighten his team so he kept quiet about it but he knew what was wide open. Aphrodite was getting the chills. Her Newman senses were tingling with danger. Cerberus cautiously stepped inside. He looked down at the skid marks on the floor then in the direction they had come.

“This way.” He waved.

“But the tracks go that way.” Jesse pointed, “And I think the source of that goo trail went that way too.”

“I know.” Cerberus replied, “I want to see what they were running from.”

“If it’s still there.” HitmanJ added.

“If not then we have nothing to worry about.” Cerberus finished.

“That makes me feel so much better.” Jesse grumbled.

“Don’t worry kid.” Aphrodite smiled hugging him, “I’ve got your back.”

Jesse grinned and picked up his pace. The garage was dark and quiet. Two vehicles were parked in the middle of the floor. The back section of an alien lay on the floor between them and the vehicles. Jesse slowly walked over to it and poked it with his sabre.

“What is this thing?”

“Something that’s not supposed to be here.” Cerberus replied.

“You know something.” Aphrodite frowned.

“Amanda and I…” He began.

A blood curdling scream vibrated through out the facility. It was answered by a second. Cerberus quickly ushered everyone back into the hallway. An alien was creeping down the wall of the hallway. It was headed straight for them.

“What is that thing?” Aphrodite screamed.

“That is trouble.” Cerberus replied aiming his rifle.

The alien screamed and charged at them. Cerberus started firing. His shots bounced off the creatures shell.

“Aim for the head!” Aphrodite cried.

“I’m trying.” Cerberus frowned.

HitmanJ ran up beside him and fired. His mechguns tore into the creatures head. The alien collapsed on the floor.

“Yes!” Aphrodite cheered.

“It’s not over.” Cerberus said running toward the creature.

His team followed him but kept their distance from the alien. Cerberus looked down at the bloody mess that had been the creatures head. As he stood there he watched the new head start to grow.

“Move!” He barked.

They hurried down the hall as fast as their legs would carry them. The alien slowly climbed to its feet and began to chase after the hunters. Its head bubbled as it grew back. The hunters ran past the parked vehicle and into the connecting tube. Cerberus pounded the door control locking the alien out. Aphrodite let out a short scream. Cerberus spun with his weapon aimed but relaxed when he saw the dead alien at the far end of the tube. HitmanJ walked up to it and kicked it.

“It’s good to see these things actually die.” Cerberus said.

“This one is missing it s back section.” HitmanJ said, “Must be the owner of that piece in the garage.”

“There’s a lot of its blood here.” Cerberus said, “The thing must have bled to death.”

“That’s not a good strategy for killing these things.” HitmanJ said.

“No but it may be all we have.” Cerberus shrugged.

“I just hope Nikki is OK.” Jesse muttered.

“She’s with Falcon and Sahara.” Aphrodite smiled, “I’m sure she’s just fine.”

Jesse nodded with a strained smile. Cerberus entered the room with the beds, took a quick look around then proceeded to the lab with the storage tanks. He quickly moved through the room to the other door. Aphrodite was the last to enter. She shuddered as the memories of Lazarus’ lab came flooding back. She slowly moved over to the others and peered down the tube. Two aliens were wandering around the next room sniffing for something. They were showing particular interest in a metal cabinet. The cabinet was almost as tall as Cerberus with an armoured door locked by a keypad. Cerberus stepped back so the door would close.

“They seem very interested in that cabinet.” He said, “I want to know why.”

“We know they can be killed.” HitmanJ said looking through the door window, “The question is how?”

“Shooting them in the head does nothing.” Aphrodite shrugged, “And bullets just bounce off their body.”

“What about your techniques?” Jesse suggested.

“They’re only effective for a blast or two then they seem to adapt.” Cerberus replied shaking his head.

“That might be enough.” Jesse said.

“If it doesn’t work then we loose the element of surprise.” Cerberus sighed.

“That leaves swords.” Jesse said holding up his sabre.

“You and I are the only ones with sabres.” Cerberus shrugged, “There’s no way we can take on two. No we need to get them to leave.”

“How do you feel about going for a walk?” Aphrodite said looking out the window.

“Huh?” HitmanJ squinted.

“There.” Aphrodite pointed.

A small maintenance ladder ran up the side of the pod ending at the roof. Even with his superior android balance Cerberus was too large to climb around on that roof. Jesse and Aphrodite were the best choices for this. Cerberus pried the window open so Aphrodite could squeeze out.

“Remember.” Cerberus said as Jesse started to climb out, “Just get them out of the room. Don’t try to fight them. Once the room is clear get back here as fast as possible.”

“Right.” Jesse nodded then scampered up the ladder.

They carefully crawled across the roof and down on top of the tube. The top of the tube was much flatter then he expected. Jesse crossed first then waited for Aphrodite before climbing up on to the next pod. They shuffled across the roof so they wouldn’t make any noise. The aliens continued to sniff around the cabinet. Aphrodite reached the tube first. Jesse climbed down behind her.

“You go across first.” He said.

“We should go together.” Aphrodite replied.

“No I have an idea to get their attention but I can’t have you here in the way.” Jesse said pulling his sabre hilt from his pack.

“What are you?” Aphrodite started to ask.

“Go!” Jesse pointed.

Aphrodite slowly turned and shuffled down the tube. Jesse waited until she had made it to the next pod. Jesse tapped the glass with the butt of his sabre hilt. The alien’s heads snapped in the direction of the sound. Jesse tapped again. The aliens slowly crept toward the sound. Jesse moved back and tapped the top of the tube. The aliens moved forward then sprang up clinging to the ceiling. Their long talons came through the metal right in front of Jesse’s feet. He yelped and jumped back. One alien tore a chunk out. It wasn’t big enough to crawl through but it still scared Jesse. He let out a yelp and ran.

“Go!” Jesse shouted at Aphrodite.

The alien tore another chunk from the roof and stuck its head back up. It barked at the hunters then pulled its head back out so it could tear the hole open enough to crawl though. Jesse and Aphrodite scampered up to the top of the pod then over to the other maintenance ladder. Aphrodite started down first. Jesse took one last look before descending. The alien burst through the hole and charged at them. It was much faster than it looked using all six limbs to propel it along the side of the tube.

“Oh crap!” Jesse gasped, “They are coming!”

“The window is stuck!” Aphrodite yelled.

“You better get it unstuck quick.” Jesse replied climbing down.

Aphrodite pulled with all her might. It wouldn’t budge. She took a deep breath and was about to pull again when she noticed the lock was closed.

“The window is locked!”

“Move.” Jesse said drawing his handgun.

Aphrodite shoved to the right as Jesse squeezed down beside her. He looked away and pulled the trigger. The glass exploded in a shower of shards. He stowed the gun and climbed through. After he cleaned out some of the larger shards, Aphrodite climbed through.

“How do we lock them out now?” She asked.

Snapping jaws shot through the window just missing Aphrodite’s butt. She screamed and jumped back.

“You alien pervert!” She yelled.

“Time to go.” Jesse quipped.

He grabbed her arm and dragged her to the tunnel door. They flew through the door closing the hatch behind them. The aliens slammed into the door clawing at the metal. The hunters let out a deep sigh of relief.

“The door is too thick for them.” Aphrodite smiled.

“We should be safe now.” Jesse waved.

Aphrodite peered through the door window and stuck her tongue out at the aliens. One popped up and snapped at her. She yelped and jumped back.

“We should get back to Cerberus!” Jesse laughed.

“Lead the way my young hero.” Aphrodite giggled.

Jesse turned bright red and quickly looked away. The sound of breaking glass made them spin around. One of the aliens had smashed through the window of the lab pod and was now climbing around the door. It punched through the glass of the tunnel and crawled in with the second one right behind it.

“Oh crap.” Jesse gasped.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN

Cerberus waited until the aliens had left the room before creeping inside. HitmanJ watched his back as they stepped up to the metal cabinet. Cerberus grabbed the door handle and pulled the door from its hinges. A man dressed in a white lab coat was cowering inside.

“Don’t hurt me!” He cried.

“Mome?” Cerberus frowned, “What are you doing here?”

Mome slowly looked up at the android. A smile sprang across his face.

“Cerberus, Hitman!” Mome cried, “I am so glad to see you!”

“What is going on here Doctor?” HitmanJ asked.

“These creatures are the ones who attacked Pioneer.” Mome shivered, “From what I can tell they have harvested most of the employees and all of the test subjects. For what purpose I do not know but if I would harbour a guess I’d say it was for food.”

“They drain the fluids from our bodies.” Cerberus said.

“How do you know that?” Mome asked.

“Amanda and I saw the corpse on a piece of wreckage from Pioneer Three.” Cerberus sighed, “We ran in to one of these creatures too.”

“Have you reported this?” HitmanJ gasped.

Cerberus nodded. “We took all the files we could recover and brought them back.”

“When were you going to tell me and Aphrodite?” HitmanJ frowned.

“Sorry, we’ve been so busy I forgot.” Cerberus shrugged.

“Enough of this!” Mome stormed, “You must get me out of here before they find me. I don’t want to be some alien creature’s food!”

“Sorry Mome.” Cerberus shook his head, “We’re here to find our missing party.”

“If they were here then they’re dead.” Mome spat.

“You’re here and you are still alive.” Aphrodite muttered.

“Look Mome, you’re not exactly sitting to good with the Pioneer administration right now.” Cerberus growled.

“There is a warrant for your arrest.” HitmanJ said.

“Safer in prison then here.” Mome smiled, “Besides you’re guardians now. You are sworn to protect me.”

“True but our primary mission is to recover our missing team.” Cerberus glared at him, “So if you want our protection you’re going to have to tag along.”

“Never!” Mome spat.

“Alright but I don’t think that cabinet will offer much protection now.” Cerberus smiled.

“Fine.” Mome grumbled.

Aphrodite and Jesse came bolting through the door. Jesse pounded the switch sealing the door.

“They are getting smarter.” Jesse gasped for air.

“What has happened?” Cerberus asked.

BANG.

BANG.

Jesse jumped back as the aliens slammed in to the door. The hunters quickly drew their weapons.

“They can’t get through the blast doors.” Mome shrugged.

One of the aliens punched through the glass tube.

“No, they go around.” Jesse pointed.

“Now who taught them that?” Mome frowned.

“They kinda figured it out on their own.” Aphrodite growled.

“We need to retreat.” HitmanJ said turning for the other door.

The aliens crawled out onto the glass. One headed for the other tube trapping the hunters inside.

“They are smart.” Aphrodite gasped.

“Now what great leader?” Mome grumbled.

“Everyone to the door.” Cerberus barked.

They quickly piled up against the blast door. Cerberus signalled for them to wait. The alien smashed a hole in the glass. The other alien returned to join the attack. Cerberus threw a freeze trap through the hole encasing the aliens in ice. He quickly ushered his team through the door. They hurried up to the next lab. It had been full of computer terminals. Most of them were smashed. There were some human remains on the floor but they were just pieces now. There was no way to identify it without a DNA scan. Cerberus knelt down and scanned a sample. He tried to contact the lab but couldn’t get a connection. Mome explained that the facility had a jamming field around it. No unauthorized communications could be made. Cerberus sighed and proceeded to the next level. Jesse stared at the tunnel leading into the volcano. He thought he could hear faint moans and screams. A hand on his shoulder snapped him back to reality.

“Coming kid?” Aphrodite smiled.

“Uh ya.” Jesse nodded.

They entered the next lab. The only thing of real interest was a dead alien. They proceeded up the mountain until they came to a locked blast door.

“We can’t unlock it from this side.” Mome said.

“May be we should just knock.” HitmanJ smiled.

He walked up to the door and was just about to tap it with his mechguns, when the door swung open and Nikki yelped with surprise.

“Hitman, Cerberus!” She squealed, “I’m so glad to see you!”

“Nikki!” Jesse cried pushing his way through.

“Jesse.” Nikki gasped, “What are you doing here?”

“I came to find you.” Jesse smiled pulling away, “I was so worried.”

“It’s too dangerous for you here.” Nikki said.

“I can take care of myself just fine.” Jesse frowned, “Besides, I’m with Cerberus. I’m perfectly safe.”

“Quickly inside.” Nikki said waving them in. She locked the door behind her. Falcon stepped up to Mome and glared down at him.

“Where have you been?”

“Protecting myself.” Mome grumbled.

Striker stepped up and smiled at Cerberus.

“Well I never thought I’d be glad to see a rusty bucket of bolts like you.”

“Striker, what are you doing here?” Aphrodite gasped.

“Aphrodite my sweet, it’s good to see you again.” Striker bowed, “I trailed those androids
here. Unfortunately the aliens got them before I could.”

“And who is your new friend?” Aphrodite blushed.

“This is Tessa.” Striker replied, “She’s from Pioneer One.”

Striker introduced everyone to Tessa then let her explain her story. Striker followed that by getting Cerberus’ team up to speed on the situation, and then Crystal explained what they had found. Cerberus thought for a moment.

“There’s one thing that still bothers me.” He said, “What was that beam we recorded coming from this place?”

“The only thing that could have generated such a focused beam like that would be Montague’s Alpha photon generator.” Mome explained.

“A what?” Cerberus frowned, “Wait, Montague?”

Mome nodded, “He’s everywhere. You should know that. It’s a new form of power. I think it was based on the high frequency photons Lazarus was using. It’s extremely unstable. They must have been conducting a trial start when the thing over loaded.”

“Where is this generator?” Falcon growled.

“The heart of the volcano deep underground.” Mome said, “I doubt there’s anything left.”

“Why it there no signs of damage here?” HitmanJ asked, “And everybody was still alive.”

“Perhaps it was slightly out of phase with our natural frequency.” Mome shrugged, “Nice light show but completely harmless. The ground blast wave had quite the punch though. Strange thing was it seemed to affect only bio matter. I’m guessing most of the researchers were above the wave when it occurred and those that weren’t, well.”

“It still drew those things here.” Sahara jabbed him in the chest.

“No, they appeared too quickly after ward to be brought here by that.” Mome shook his head, “They were already coming.”

“He’s right.” Cerberus said, “By what you’ve told us we need to find this nest and kill the new queen before it can hatch.”

“We know where it is.” Striker said grabbing Tessa’s hand, “Follow us.”

The group followed Striker back to the tunnel leading to the volcano. The two aliens that had been pursuing Cerberus were no where to be found. Striker led them deep into the volcano. They passed through the magma chamber and into the central chamber that lead to the hostage chamber where he had found Tessa. The aliens had stopped their construction work and now the line ran from the hostage chamber to the constructed chamber. The hunters slowly crept along the left wall trying to stay out of sight. They stopped behind a large pile of rocks close to the construction site.

“Now what?” HitmanJ asked, “We can’t get in there with all those aliens coming and going.”

“We can’t possibly fight them all.” Sahara shook her head.

“Guys look.” Aphrodite said pointing to the entrance.

Kireek casually strolled across the chamber and stopped at the line of aliens. They all turned and growled at him.

“What is he doing here?” Cerberus gasped.

“Let me finish him.” Falcon said moving forward.

Cerberus grabbed his arm. “No, not yet.”

Kireek waved his Soul Eater. The aliens retreated giving him straight access. He disappeared in the tunnel.

“Let’s go.” Cerberus said following Kireek.

The group of aliens watched the hunters enter the tunnel but said nothing and did not attack.

“Creepy.” HitmanJ muttered.

They stopped at the mouth of the tunnel staying just out of view. Kireek was standing in the middle of the pod covered floor. The old queen sat against the back wall with wings spread. She looked down at the android listening as he spoke.

“I represent the power which you seek!” Kireek announced, “Your people have come in search of Ragol’s great power but you have come to the wrong place. It is not here but I know where it is!”

The alien made some barking and gurgling sounds.

“I see.” Kireek nodded, “Then I will guide your offspring to the power so your quest can be complete.”

The alien spoke again.

“I am commanded to help you by the keeper of the power.” Kireek said, “Even now he calls to you. I am here to deliver his message and bring you to him. He needs you to survive and you need him for his power.”

The alien spoke.

“I serve him, not the fleshy food.” Kireek replied.

The alien queen turned her head and pointed her dull and beaten talon at a large pod sitting on her right. It was much larger than the others and sat alone. The queen gently tapped the top of the pod. It peeled open and a smaller version of the queen crawled out. It was no where near the size of the adult but it was still larger than Kireek. It looked around stopping at Kireek. It growled hungrily. Kireek just stood there.

“We can’t let that thing leave.” Cerberus whispered.

“There’s enough of us.” Falcon said, “We could easily take those three before the others showed up.”

“Agreed.” Cerberus nodded.

Kireek spun and glared at the tunnel. His eyes flashed then he turned to the alien.

“I believe I have found food for your young!” He sneered, “There in the tunnel!”

Falcon was the first one out.

“I’ll tear you to pieces first!” He yelled.

“You again.” Kireek growled, “You’re as annoying as that blasted ranger. Well I’ll just kill you first.”

Kireek launched at Falcon. Falcon activated his Yamato and braced for the block. Kireek drove into him with more force than Falcon could have expected. He was sent flying back into the tunnel. The others poured into the chamber.

“I love it when food just strolls on to the dinner plate!” Kireek laughed.

“You are one sick android.” Cerberus replied.

“Feed!” Kireek cried.

The new queen screamed and attacked the hunters. Kireek laughed as the hunters ran for cover. Falcon charged through the group and slammed into Kireek. The android was knocked to his back. Falcon swung at him. Kireek blocked with his Soul Eater.

“I am much more powerful then the last time we met.” Kireek sneered.

“Then it will bring me all that much more pleasure when I cut you to pieces.” Falcon growled.

Kireek roared and tossed Falcon off. He jumped to his feet and charged. Falcon barely got his Katana up in time. The impact knocked him down. Kireek took a chop swing. Falcon rolled out of the way. He sprang to his feet. Kireek was already on him. The Soul Eater came at him with blinding speed. Falcon did his best to block but the Soul Eater seemed to gain strength with each strike.

“Soon my precious Soul Eater will drink your fluids.” Kireek growled.

“Never!” Falcon cried.

Kireek got a lucky strike knocking the Katana from Falcons left hand. Falcon gripped his remaining sword with both hands and attacked. Kireek blocked his attack then kicked him in the belly. Falcon was knocked back. Kireek swung up catching the other sword. It went flying across the room landing by Sahara’s foot. She looked down at it then over at her brother.

“Falcon!” She cried.

The old queen’s talon racked the floor knocking her down. Kireek stepped closer to Falcon ready to drive his scythe into the androids chest.

“And now my friend.” Kireek laughed, “You die.”

He raised his weapon. Falcon braced for the attack. A sabre flashed across Kireek’s back knocking him down. Jesse waved at Falcon. Kireek turned and growled at the boy. Falcon jumped at Kireek. The Soul Eater flashed in a streaking arch. Falcon landed on Kireek. The smile drained from Jesse’s face. His sabre fell to the ground. Nikki fired at the new queen as it flew over head. She looked at Jesse just as the sword hit the ground. She froze in horror. Time seemed to stop. Jesse fell to his knees. A drop of red blood fell from the Soul Eaters tip. Kireek's laugh filled the room. Nikki tried to scream but it felt like nothing came out. The hunters heard her scream and turned to the fighting androids. Jesse grabbed his bleeding stomach. Nikki ran for her brother. Kireek tossed Falcon off and stood up.

“This is what happens to those who oppose me.”

He swung the Soul Eater relieving Jesse of his head. Falcon grabbed his katana that was nearby and charged. Nikki charged too, her eyes full of anger and pain. Cerberus grabbed her as she ran past.

“No.” He said, “He’ll tear you to pieces.”

“I don’t care!” Nikki cried, “He must pay!”

“Dying won’t bring Jesse back nor will it avenge him.” Cerberus said softly.

Falcon swung at Kireek’s back. Kireek’s arm twisted around blocking the strike. Falcon swung again. Kireek blocked then his waist rotated one eighty degrees. He swung sideways catching Falcon just below the chest. Falcon jumped back. Sahara ran in front of him holding her Bloody Art ready.

“It doesn’t matter how many you put in front of you.” Kireek growled, “I’ll cut through everyone to get your head.”

“You won’t touch her!” Falcon yelled.

He charged knocking Sahara away.

“Hey!” She yelled as she hit the ground.

The queen aliens continued to attack the other hunters. Aphrodite and Crystal had long exhausted their techniques usefulness and had to switch to their melee weapons. Cerberus had taken Nikki to the tunnel to get her out of harms way. Tessa ran over to them. Her arm was bleeding badly.

“I can’t fight them.” She said, “I’m not a warrior.”

“Come here.” Cerberus waved, “I’ll patch that arm.”

They watched as Kireek and Falcon continued to fight. Sahara jumped to her feet and joined Falcon. It was clear even the two of them weren’t going to defeat Kireek. His new power was just too unnatural. He was obviously being fed by Dark Falz. The Soul Eater was most likely the conduit for his power. The old queen was quickly losing the fight. Striker and Harris continued to duck and jab. The queen finally collapsed in her own blood. Four alien solders entered the room passing Cerberus, Nikki, and Tessa who were now huddled together in the shadows. Cerberus wanted to go help the others but he knew Tessa was in no condition to fight and Nikki was too broken up to think clearly. They needed his protection right now. Striker, Harris, and Aphrodite intercepted the new aliens while Crystal, HitmanJ, and Mome kept the queen busy. Kireek easily fought off the attacks of the others. More aliens poured into the room.

“We can’t fight everyone!” HitmanJ yelled.

Two aliens intercepted Falcon and Sahara freeing Kireek. He ran for the door kicking Cerberus who tried to stop him. The queen stopped her attack as well and flew out through the tunnel. She had to retract her wings to clear the tunnel walls and landed just outside of the exit.

“Follow me to the power my queen.” Kireek bowed.

The queen screamed and grabbed the android flying them both up through the volcano and out into the light. Cerberus slowly backed Tessa and Nikki out of the chamber. He called for the others to retreat. It took some fancy moves but they broke free and ran for the tunnel. HitmanJ brought up the rear laying down cover fire. It didn’t do any real damage but he found blasting their heads off slowed them down considerably. Tessa took the lead with Cerberus carrying Nikki on his shoulder. She was kicking and screaming calling for her brother. The hunters retreated to the upper most lab. The aliens stopped their pursuit halfway up, just like when Falcons team retreated to this position. Cerberus set Nikki down. She fell to her knees sobbing. Aphrodite went over and hugged the young ranger. Nikki buried her head in Aphrodite’s shoulder. The others were dead quiet. Cerberus walked over to a desk away from the others. He slammed his fist into the desk top leaving a large dent. He bent over leaning on the desk. Falcon slowly walked up beside the ranger but said nothing.

“I shouldn’t have let him come.” Cerberus said softly, “I knew this was too dangerous. He was much too young and inexperienced for this kind of mission.”

“He saved my life.” Falcon replied equally soft, “If he hadn’t come, I would be dead. I am eternally in his debt.”

“That doesn’t change the fact that he’s dead!” Cerberus yelled still looking down. “He was my responsibility and I let him down. I let Nikki down and now her brother is gone.”

“The girl will heal.” Falcon said, “She will become stronger from this. Already she improves with help from her friends. You too must become stronger.”

“Falcon, I don’t need a lecture.” Cerberus growled.

“Yes you do.” Falcon nodded, “You demonstrate your ranger weakness even now. It is not your fault. It is the very nature of your existence, but you have the ability to over come this and grow in strength and character. Who knows, someday you may become strong enough to impress me.”

“You should go into psychiatry.” Cerberus muttered, “With that kind of bed side manner you could really lift a lot of spirits.”

“I’m not here to lift your spirits.” Falcon said, “You’re in command and I can not have a leader in your condition. It could get us all killed. Remember your best friend lost some one a year ago and he wasn’t any older than Jesse. He didn’t let that destroy him. He used it to gain strength. So must you.”

Falcon turned and walked away. Everyone’s attention had shifted to the androids, when Cerberus had started yelling. All eyes were on him now. Sahara patted her brother’s shoulder.

“I know that was tough for you to admit.” She said, “I’m proud of you.”

Falcon just nodded. Cerberus stood still for several minutes. Slowly the eyes turned away from him. Nikki was still upset but she had finished crying. Tessa had moved in to help comfort her now. Cerberus clenched his fists.

“I must not let this ruin me.” He growled softly, “Dang it Deepfreeze, where are you?”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY EIGHT

Deepfreeze had found the decaying husk of the alien space craft. The alien vegetation was quickly covering the island. There was nothing left here for them to investigate so they quickly returned to the shuttle. They landed on the facility pad then walked up the steps of the main door. The front doors were wide open. Deepfreeze cautiously climbed the steps. As he reached the top they heard a piercing scream from the volcano top. Deepfreeze ran back down to get a view of the summit. A winged alien was perched on the rim. It was holding a person. He couldn’t make out who or what it was. The alien spread its wings and took off in the direction of the central dome. They were too late but it would take time for the creature to make that long flight. Deepfreeze bolted up the stairs and into the hallway. He turned right and followed the tire tracks and dried alien blood. He and his team passed the dead alien and proceeded through the labs. He stopped at the smashed stasis tanks.

“They’ve taken all the experiments.” He said.

“What for?” Elenor asked, “Most of them weren’t finished.”

She set the chart she had picked up on the desk then studied a piece of glass. It had scratch marks on the inside.

“For food I bet.” Amanda shivered.

“That’s a pretty gruesome theory.” Rico said.

“I’ve seen their leftovers.” Amanda sighed, “It is gruesome.”

“This is most interesting.” Elenor said handing Deepfreeze the glass.

“Scratch marks.” He said looking the piece over.

“Yes but look which side they’re on.” Elenor pointed.

“The inside.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Only a subject could have made that.” Elenor said.

“The stasis chambers must have failed.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Probably from that explosion.”

“But there are no signs of damage from the explosion.” Elenor said, “How could it have affected the stasis chambers but nothing else?”

“I’m not a scientist.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “I don’t have an answer for that.”

“The others should be around here some where.” Amanda said, “We should keep moving.”

“She’s right.” Rico nodded.

They moved into the next lab which looked like it had been through a war. Amanda walked over to the tunnel leading to the volcano’s interior. She could hear the aliens barking and screeching below. The others didn’t seem to notice. She waved Rico over. Lisa followed her.

“I can hear them.”

“Who?” Rico asked.

“The aliens.” Amanda replied, “And there’s a lot of them.”

“Are they coming?” Lisa asked.

“Not yet.” Amanda shook her head.

“Then we better keep going that way.” Rico pointed to the other tunnel.

Amanda nodded and followed her and Lisa out. Deepfreeze looked up from a file he was reading. Elenor was the only one with him. She was inspecting some human remains.

“Hey, where’d the others go?”

Elenor looked around and shrugged. Deepfreeze peered down the transport tube. The girls were just entering the next lab. Deepfreeze waved Elenor then ran after them. They continued up until they ran into the locked door. Deepfreeze peered through the small window and smiled.

“They’re all in there.”

“What are we waiting for?” Amanda smiled.

She walked up to the door and tapped on the glass with her dagger. Crystal opened the door. Her face lit up.

“Deepfreeze!” She screamed and jumped into his arms.

“Nice to see you too.” He smiled awkwardly.

“Not another one.” Amanda huffed.

Deepfreeze pried Crystal off and stepped inside. Amanda and Crystal followed him in. Rico was the last to enter. The room went dead quiet except for Nikki’s crying.

“What?” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“What do you mean what?” Striker gasped, “That’s Red Ring Rico!”

“Hey aren’t you supposed to be up north hunting your androids?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Long story.” Striker waved.

“Hey.” Tessa scowled.

“Huh, oh ya, everybody Tessa, Tessa everybody.” Striker blurted.

“Thanks.” Tessa pouted.

“Tessa, it’s so good to see you again.” Rico smiled.

“You too.” Tessa said hugging Rico.

“I thought you were dead.” Rico said.

“I was lost in the artic before Pioneer One was wiped out.” Tessa shook her head.

“You two know each other?” Striker gasped.

“Of course.” Rico smiled, “We’re both from Pioneer One.”

Striker started to respond then frowned.

“So you were right.” HitmanJ smiled at Deepfreeze, “Rico is alive.”

“No she’s not.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “Rico is a dark spawn from Dark Falz. Her spirit is trapped inside.”

“But she looks human!” Aphrodite exclaimed.

“He released me from his control.” Rico replied, “That took away any dark attributes I had except for this blasted purple blood. Unfortunately he took my life force as well.”

“I don’t understand.” Tessa frowned.

“Rico is slowly dying.” Elenor said.

“Oh.” Aphrodite nodded.

Deepfreeze looked around at the small group of battle beaten hunters. Nikki was sitting on the floor curled up into a ball. Her eyes were red and her face showed signs of tears. Cerberus was over by himself. Strangely he hadn’t greeted his friend yet.

“What has happened here?” Deepfreeze asked softly.

Everyone stood silent looking at each other wondering who would deliver the bad news. Falcon finally stepped forward.

“The young HUmar Jesse had fallen in battle.” He said.

Amanda gasped placing a hand over her mouth. Elenor slowly shook her head. Lisa looked ready to cry.

“Oh Nikki.” Deepfreeze said softly, “I am so sorry.”

He went over and knelt down in front of her.

“If there is anything I can do.”

She sprang forward and hugged him.

“Thank you.” She whispered, “It still hurts but I’m still with you.”

She let go and sat down again. Deepfreeze stood up and looked at Falcon.

“How?” He asked.

“Kireek.” Falcon replied.

“He saved Falcons life.” Sahara said quietly.

Deepfreeze nodded and clenched his fists. “That android will pay. I swear it.”

“I will aid you.” Falcon swore.

Deepfreeze turned and went to see Cerberus.

“How are you holding up?”

“How did you do it?” Cerberus asked, “How did you handle RTJ’s death?”

“It wasn’t easy.” Deepfreeze sighed, “I take great solace in knowing he died protecting us. Jesse did the same. I also had my friends to help me through it even though I never let you guys really know.”

“But he’s still dead.” Cerberus grumbled.

“Yes, he is.” Deepfreeze said, “But we can learn and grow from this. It will make us stronger and he’s not really gone if we remember him!”

“That’s what Falcon said.” Cerberus muttered, “Sort of.”

“He did?” Deepfreeze smiled, “Then he’s smarter than he looks.”

“Watch it ranger.” Falcon growled.

“Besides it was me who allowed him to go.” Deepfreeze said, “We have work to do and I need you with me I wouldn’t be much of a ranger if I didn’t have my best friend at my side.”

“Yes you would.” Cerberus said then smiled, “Thank you anyway.”

“Good, let’s go show these aliens whose planet this really is.” Deepfreeze said slapping Cerberus on the back, “People, we have a queen to stop.”

“We also have a nest to deal with.” Falcon said.

“A what?” Deepfreeze exclaimed.

“The aliens have a nest deep within this volcano!” Falcon explained, “We can not leave it. The old queen is dead but that doesn’t mean they can’t grow another.”

“We don’t know enough about their reproductive cycle to take any chances.” Crystal shrugged.

“Right, Mome any ideas?” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“The Alpha photon generator would have been the best but it’s already been destroyed.” Mome replied.

“Yes and we saw how effective that was.” HitmanJ shrugged.

“With proper adjustments it could have been much more lethal.” Mome glared, “I think that was the only toy Montague had here. The facility power supply runs off of a geothermal generator. If we reverse the power flow it might cause a feed back spike. That kind of explosion would most likely reactivate the volcano frying everything inside.”

“Sounds good.” Deepfreeze nodded, “What do we have to do?”

“First we need to flip the three main circuit breakers.” Mome said, “Then we disconnect the main power feed line and connect it to the auxiliary start booster. Once that’s done we need to remove the safety breakers and hard wire the power feeds. Turn the main breakers back on and fuse them closed. Once that’s all done it’s just a matter of pushing the power button. The power loop should cause the generator to surge sending a massive photon wave into the magma pool and vola, fireworks.”

“How long for the generator to surge?” Deepfreeze asked.

“That’s the bad part.” Mome sighed, “It will be instant. Whoever pushes the button dies.”

“Oh great.” HitmanJ muttered.

“I don’t like this plan.” Aphrodite wined.

“Me either.” Amanda agreed, “We can’t leave somebody behind.”

[Freeze]

“Can’t we set up some sort of remote?” Sahara asked.

“I don’t know of anything that would do the job.” Mome shrugged.

“I’ll do it.” Nikki said standing up.

“No absolutely not.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“My brother is gone.” Nikki said, “This way I can join him on the field of honour.”

“What about your father?” Deepfreeze asked, “I won’t let you make me have to tell him both his children are dead.”

“But!” Nikki protested.

“No!” Deepfreeze snapped.

“I’ll do it.” Rico said grimly, “I’m already dead. It’s the logical choice.”

“Rico no.” Tessa ran forward, “You and I are the last of Pioneer One. I miss hanging with you.”

“It was fun.” Rico smiled.

“Forget it.” Deepfreeze waved, “I won’t choose someone to die. If I have to pick I’ll do it myself.”

“No!” Amanda gasped.

“You can not die.” Rico said, “The future depends on it.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Deepfreeze asked.

“You’ll find out.” Rico grinned.

“Look, no one is going to die.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “Doc, is there anything we can use from the shuttle?”

“Yes, we could use the fire control squib on the fire suppression system.” Mome nodded, “It would be a one shot deal. If it didn’t work there’d be no second chance!”

“It’s better than nothing.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Cerberus, take Falcon, Sahara, and Nikki. Retrieve that squib and take Tessa with you. Nikki, you stay and protect Tessa. There are aliens out there that could attack the shuttle. I don’t want Tessa left alone.”

Nikki nodded.

“The rest of us will get to that generator and start working on it.” Deepfreeze said, “Those aliens are not going to make it easy for us.”

The group filed out of the lab then split up at the junction. Mome led Deepfreeze’s team into the volcano while Cerberus headed for the shuttle. His team exited the lab only to find three aliens waiting in the main hall.

“Tessa stay close to me.” Cerberus said, “Falcon take left, Sahara go right. Nikki take center.”

Cerberus drew his sabre and waited for the aliens to come at them. The aliens marched forward all of them intent on Cerberus. Falcon charged first with Sahara right beside him. They met their aliens with weapons swinging. Talons flew clashing with daggers and katanas. Cerberus stood firm as the center alien closed in. It launched itself forward, its talons ready to dig in. Cerberus grabbed Tessa’s arm and tossed her aside. The alien rammed into Cerberus knocking him on his back. Its rear swung side ways knocking Nikki down. She was slow to get up. Cerberus grabbed the talons before they could tear into him. He braced his feet against the alien’s second section and pushed. The alien flipped landing on its back. It quickly twisted around and climbed to its feet. The alien was charging before Cerberus could get up. He rolled to the left just as the talons tore into the floor. The alien hissed and pulled two chunks from the marble floor. Cerberus jumped to his feet swinging his sabre at the flying rock. The alien was on him in an instant. Cerberus knocked the talons aside then tried to stab the creature. It bit down on his blade wrenching the sword from his hands. It flipped it head back tossing the sword away. When it looked back at the android, Cerberus jammed the barrel of his rifle against its head. He pulled the trigger blasting the head apart. The alien spasmed and thrashed. Cerberus side stepped it and ran for his sabre. The alien turned and chased after him. He scooped up the sabre and threw it like a spear. It hit dead center in the first section right between the arms. The creature kept coming. Cerberus braced for the impact. The alien’s talons dug into his shoulders. Cerberus pulled his sabre out then plunged it deep into the alien’s chest. He did this repeatedly until the alien died. He pushed the talons away letting them thump on the floor. Sahara was sitting on the back of her dead alien. She pulled her daggers out and slid off. Falcon had managed to slice his alien into several large chunks. He kicked the head away in triumph. Tessa stepped up beside him looking at the mess.

“A bit of over kill don’t you think?” She frowned.

“Every alien I encounter will pay for Jesse’s death.” Falcon muttered, “Black Hound will truly suffer though.”

Tessa slowly backed away from the alien.

“We better keep moving.” Cerberus said.

Tessa grabbed Nikki’s hand and dragged her after the androids. Nikki smiled at Tessa then looked away. She felt bad for Tessa having to rely on her for protection. She was still a wreck over her brother’s death and now had frozen when those aliens had shown up. She trusted Deepfreeze’s decisions but she wondered why he’d put her in charge of a civilian. Then a very disheartening thought crossed her mind. Maybe he thought they’d be safe in the shuttle. Maybe it was just an excuse to get her to stay in the shuttle and out of the way. Maybe he knew she was no good to him. Her heart and her self confidence sank. A tear ran down her cheek. Tessa noticed Nikki's sudden change in body language.

“Nikki, what’s wrong?” Tessa asked softly.

“I’m a useless ranger.” Nikki sniffed.

“No your not.” Tessa replied.

“Yes I am.” Nikki nodded crying a little more, “Why do you think Deepfreeze ordered me to stay with you in the shuttle. He knows I’m no good under pressure. I couldn’t protect Jesse and I can’t protect you. He knows we’ll be perfectly safe in the shuttle.”

“I think he knows you’re still upset over loosing your brother and need time to heal.” Tessa said, “It’s not that he doesn’t have confidence in you, it’s that he knows people. Good leaders have to. If he had no confidence in you he would have assigned someone to assist you.”

“Huh?” Nikki sniffed.

“That jungle is crawling with aliens.” Tessa said squeezing Nikki’s hand, “That shuttle could be attacked at any moment. He wouldn’t have assigned just you if he thought you couldn’t handle an attack.”

“She’s right.”

Nikki looked up to see Cerberus smiling down at her

“You’re a very good ranger.” Cerberus said, “You have to be. I trained you.”

A smile crept across Nikki’s face. She wiped the tears from her eyes. It was good to have friends that cared for her. They reached the front door keeping an eye out for any aliens. They could hear them barking deep in the jungle. Cerberus led his team down the short path to the landing site. Two aliens were sniffing around the shuttle.

“Nikki, stay with Tessa.” Cerberus whispered, “Stay sharp, I don’t want any surprises from the jungle.”

Nikki nodded pulling her sabre hilt from her pack. Cerberus signalled for Falcon and Sahara to take the one at the rear of the shuttle. Cerberus aimed his rifle at the closest one and waited. The hunters slowly crept around to the rear of the shuttle. The alien had removed a maintenance panel and was sniffing around one of the engines. Falcon and Sahara attacked from both sides driving their weapons into its sides. Cerberus fired blasting the creatures head off then charged plunging his sabre into its body. Neither creature stood a chance. Falcon looked over the engine and shook his head.

“They’ve disassembled several components.”

“I found them over here!” Sahara called.

“Status.” Cerberus asked walking up to them.

“This engine requires repairs before it will leave.” Falcon replied.

“I don’t suppose you know how to fix it?” Cerberus asked.

“I am a warrior not a mechanic.” Falcon announced.

“I was afraid of that.” Cerberus sighed, “Gather up as many parts as you can find. I’ll grab the squib.”

Falcon nodded and went to help Sahara. Cerberus walked up to the shuttle door and entered the code. It was universal for all Pioneer shuttles. It was designed mostly to keep aliens out but an operator could change the code if he needed to. Nikki started to follow Cerberus. An alien screamed and jumped out gabbing Tessa. Nikki spun and drove her sabre into the creature’s chest. It dropped Tessa and grabbed Nikki by the ribs. She felt the talons puncture her skin and heard a couple ribs break. She cried out in pain. Cerberus jumped out of the shuttle. Falcon and Sahara dropped their parts and ran to help. Tessa drew her knife and attacked, driving her weapon into the creatures shell. It kicked her away with its foot. Fighting the pain Nikki drove the sabre into the alien again. The alien squeezed harder. Its talons dug into her internal organs. Suddenly she couldn’t breath. Then the aliens head disappeared. It dropped Nikki and charged Cerberus. Falcon and Sahara came out of nowhere driving their blades into the creature. It fell dead at Cerberus’ feet. Tessa was bent over Nikki.

“Is she alive?” Cerberus asked.

“Yes but its pretty serious.” Tessa said, “She needs a hospital.”

“What about Resta?” Sahara asked.

“I don’t know how to use techniques.” Tessa shook her head.

“Our coms won’t reach the others either.” Falcon said.

“Get her inside.” Cerberus pointed, “I’ll grab the squib then you two take it to Deepfreeze the get Aphrodite or Crystal back here right away.”

“We will not fail.” Falcon boasted.

They finished gathering the engine parts while Cerberus latterly tore the squib from the fire bottle. He handed it to Falcon then the two hunters ran back to the facility. Cerberus went back in to check on Nikki. Tessa was patching her wounds with the first aid kit.

“This should slow the bleeding but I have no idea how much internal damage was done.” Tessa said softly.

Nikki’s breathing was shallow and laboured but at least she was conscious.

“Stay with me.” Cerberus said.

Nikki nodded but couldn’t get enough air to speak. Cerberus thought about taking a scan but it wouldn’t matter because there was nothing he could do about it. Nikki was fighting for every breath. She tried to stay awake but lost that battle very quickly. Cerberus just stared at her.

“You should go fix the engines.” Tessa said softly, “I’ll watch her.”

Cerberus nodded and slowly left the shuttle.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTY NINE

It was difficult sneaking a large group of hunters around in these narrow caves. Mome led them around the central chamber and into a tunnel that angled down at a pretty steep incline. They had to move slowly to keep from falling. Striker, Crystal, Harris and Lisa remained behind to keep guard. Mome explained the power room was too small to fight in. If the aliens got in there they’d have no problem slaughtering the humans. He was right. The generator took up most of the room. Mome flipped the main breaker while Deepfreeze climbed around to the other side. He proceeded to remove the safety breakers from the back while HitmanJ worked on the front panel. Mome moved from the breakers to the power cables. Instead of one large socket there were five smaller ones. This was a problem. The auxiliary start plug was a single socket. He needed the adapter from the maintenance shed in the garage.

“Take Elenor, Rico, and Amanda.” Deepfreeze said still pulling out breakers.

“Come on Doctor.” Amanda said following Rico out.

Elenor took position behind the Doctor. Aphrodite was left to twiddle her thumbs. HitmanJ was too busy to talk to her. She understood the urgency but was still annoyed that she wasn’t the center of his universe even now. Finally she couldn’t stand it anymore.

“I’m going to keep guard with the others.” She said.

“Alright.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Be careful.”

“I will.” Aphrodite chirped and skipped away.

Two aliens were sniffing around the stasis lab. Amanda couldn’t possibly guess what they were searching for. The lab had been completely cleaned out. These aliens were blocking their way and had to be dealt with. Amanda gripped her daggers tight. Her muscles tightened in anticipation.

“Doctor, stay here.” She said softly.

Mome nodded and stepped back into the shadows. Amanda fixed her gaze on the closest creature. If they were fast enough they could take it down before the other could respond.

“Now.” She horsed and sprang forward.

The others weren’t prepared for her speed. She broke out into the lead. Elenor was a few steps behind with Rico bringing up the rear. She was slowing down and couldn’t keep up. Amanda sprang at the alien. A foot sprang up and slammed into her chest. She was thrown backwards landing at Elenor’s feet. Elenor stopped dead and looked down at the gasping Newman. Rico stopped beside her watching the alien approach.

“You seem to be slowing.” Elenor said.

“My body won’t respond like it did.” Rico replied breathing heavily.

Amanda slowly climbed to her feet rubbing her chest.

“No time for chat ladies.” She grimaced.

It was time for this little HUnewearl to shine. She rushed forward at the charging alien. Talons lashed out at her. She blocked each attack then slipped under the aliens left arm driving her daggers into its shell. Rico went left while Elenor defended against the talons. Amanda used her daggers to spring up on the creatures back. She turned to strike but had to duck a flying talon from the second alien. It continued to slash as she jumped and dodged. The alien drove its claw at her. She jumped to the side. Its talon dove into its partner’s side. She bolted forward running up the arm and swinging around to its back. The alien whipped it head around to bite her. She drove her daggers into its skull. It pulled away leaving two large gashes in its head. She quickly drove her daggers into its head repeatedly before jumping off. The alien tuned to attack her. It took a step forward and collapsed. Rico drove her Red Sabre into the other creatures neck then pulled it out the side severing the head. Mome emerged from the shadow clapping his hands.

“Marvellous, simply marvellous. You hunters never cease to amaze me.”

“Why thank you.” Amanda curtsied.

“I should not have come with you.” Rico said breathing heavily, “I’m fading faster than I expected. I am a danger to you.”

“Hush.” Amanda said holding up her finger, “I won’t have that kind of talk on my team.”

“But…” Rico tried to protest.

“I said hush.” Amanda glared then a smile crept across her face, “Come on, let’s go.”

They quickly passed through the remaining labs and into the main hallway. The vehicle was still parked were Striker had left it. Amanda hopped into the driver’s seat and started the engine.

“Yes.” She pumped.

“What are you doing?” Elenor asked.

“Speed is of the utmost importance.” Amanda smiled, “Hop in.”

“Do you know how to drive?” Rico asked slowly climbing in to the back seat.

“Sure.” Amanda grinned, “I used to drive these when I was a kid.”

Mome stopped with his foot on the step and stared at her.

“Climb in.” She waved, “Trust me.”

Mome moved a little slower now. Elenor took the front passenger seat. Amanda shoved it into gear and stomped on the throttle. The wheels squealed on the marble floor as the rear fishtailed around. She straightened the wheel and took off down the hallway. Only Elenor remained straight faced. Rico and Mome actually looked terrified. Amanda flew through the open garage door and squealed to a stop. Elenor hopped out and surveyed the garage. Rico and Mome were a little slower climbing out.

“Woman, you are crazy.” Mome said shaking slightly.

“That was fun.” Amanda giggled, “We’ve got to take this back.”

“No!” Rico and Mome yelled.

“Actually it is the most logical choice.” Elenor said then smiled, “And it was fun.”

“Thank you Elenor.” Amanda bowed with her arm across her belly.

“We are wasting time.” Mome grumbled.

He headed straight for the maintenance locker. He yanked on the door but it was locked solid.

“Blast!” He cursed.

“Allow me.” Amanda smiled pushing him aside.

She made two quick cuts through the door hinges. The doors fell to the floor as one.

“See, I have the knack.” Amanda grinned.

“That’s not funny.” Mome groaned.

He quickly grabbed the adapter from the shelf. A scream echoed through the garage. Everyone looked up. An alien was crawling along the rafters.

“These things are like cockroaches.” Mome muttered

“Back to the car.” Amanda barked.

Mome stood there watching the alien.

“Now!” Amanda yelled grabbing his arm.

The others were already piling into the vehicle. Amanda shoved the car into gear and hit the throttle. The wheels squealed as it sped away. The alien dropped right behind it. Its talons dug into the metal. Rico spun around and drove her sabre into each arm. The alien lost its grip and tumbled away. Amanda was about to make a quick left until she saw Falcon and Sahara step through the main door. She raced up to them squealing to a stop.

“Quick get in.” She waved.

Sahara didn’t hesitate. Falcon looked at the Newman.

“Are you qualified to operate this vehicle?” He asked.

“There’s no time for this.” Sahara said watching the charging alien, “Get in.”

“Fine.” Falcon grumbled.

He wasn’t even seated when Amanda stomped the throttle and spun the vehicle around.

“Amanda the alien is that way.” Elenor pointed.

“I know but so is the tunnel to the volcano.” Amanda replied, “It’s big enough we can drive most of the way.”

“If we survive.” Falcon grumbled.

“Hey, where’s that superior complex we’ve all grown to love?” Amanda grinned and ran straight for the creature.

“I have no doubt I’ll survive.” Falcon boasted, “It’s the rest of you I’m not sure about.”

“Thank you.” Sahara frowned punching his arm.

Amanda aimed for the alien but just as she was about to hit it, the creature jumped landing on the vehicles roll bars. The hunters chopped at its feet but it dodged each attack. Snapping jaws flew down through the bars nearly snagging Mome. Amanda weaved the car trying to shake it off. The corner came up fast. She hit the brakes and cranked the wheel right. The car was moving to fast. It drifted around the corner and smashed the side into the far wall. The alien continued to hang on. Amanda squealed the wheels and took off. The alien continued to snap. Falcon got a lucky hit cutting off one of the alien’s toes. It yelped and lost its balance. Elenor drew her rifle and fired. The aliens head exploded. Sahara and Falcon pushed on the alien’s underside pushing it off. The alien fell sideways and tumbled to the ground. Amanda’s mag Savitri, gave a little chirp of approval.

“Yes that worked quite well.” Elenor replied.

“I wish I could talk to my mag like you.” Amanda sighed.

“Just remember he understands you even if you don’t.” Elenor smiled.

“Savitri is a HE?” Amanda exclaimed.

“Yes.” Elenor nodded, “Didn’t you know that?”

“No!” Amanda gasped, “How’d I end up with a male mag?”

“What’s the difference?” Elenor shrugged, “It’s not like he’s a person. Mags are more like pets only smarter!”

“They are the same as you.” Amanda grumbled, “I’ve told him stuff I’ve never told Aphrodite.”

Mome started laughing. Sahara and Falcon both remained quiet.

“What’s so funny?” Amanda snapped.

“You’re far too sensitive my dear!” Mome laughed.

“How’d you like it if your best friend turned out to be a girl?” Amanda grumbled.

“Is she pretty?” Mome continued to laugh.

Sahara began to laugh too. Falcon remained silent. Amanda just snorted and continued to drive.

The first wave of aliens came shortly after Aphrodite had joined the others. She and Crystal quickly exhausted the usefulness of their techniques. Crystal switched to her Elysion and Aphrodite pulled out a brand. The tunnel was narrow making it difficult for the hunters to manoeuvre but even with their superior manoeuvrability the aliens shear size inhibited them from fighting effectively. Lisa and Striker fought one back only to have it replaced by a fresh one. Harris joined the forces against another alien that had squeezed by the lead. Weapons flashed against flying talons and snapping teeth. A third set of jaws flew out grabbing Aphrodite’s arm. She screamed as the teeth dug into the muscle. It started to drag her back. Crystal quickly grabbed her other arm and tried to pull back. Harris defended against the first alien that was now trying to get Crystal. Deepfreeze and HitmanJ reached the top of the tunnel just as Aphrodite screamed again. She heard her shoulder pop more than she felt it but she still screamed. Crystal was losing ground and her grip.

“No!” HitmanJ cried.

He drew his mechguns and fired at the arm that gripped his beloved force. It had little effect. Harris received a slash across his belly. He yelped and jumped back. This allowed his alien to move forward. Crystal lost her grip. Aphrodite disappeared. HitmanJ raced forward batting away a talon and disappeared behind the two aliens. Deepfreeze intercepted the alien before it could get at Harris. Striker and Lisa’s alien went down. They got a glance of HitmanJ fighting two aliens. One was still holding on to Aphrodite. Striker tried to join him but another alien popped in front of him. He stumbled back trying to regain his defensive posture. The alien slashed out. Lisa jumped in front taking the talon in the chest. It lifted her off the ground and flung her back behind it. One of the aliens trying to get HitmanJ caught her in mid-flight. She struggled as it tried to tear her to pieces. Striker drove his sword into the creature blocking his way. Rage and desperation filled his mind as he savagely slashed and poked. They had taken his revenge away and now they were trying to take his friends. A pain shot up from his right rib cage. He ignored it. The alien must die. He drove his sword through the second segment and into the third. He felt something scrape across his mid section, bringing new pain. He barley felt it. The alien went down in a spray of orange blood. Striker bolted forward driving his sword into Lisa’s alien. It screamed then Striker heard a sickening tearing of metal. Lisa’s left arm fell to the ground. The alien struck Striker in the right side of his face. Its thumb talon drove into his dead eye. His Red Sword came down cutting the arm off. The talon fell away. Striker’s vision went blurry. He swung at the dark thing in front of him. He was suddenly splashed with blood and brains. The alien dropped Lisa. Harris grabbed her and dragged her back still aiming his handgun. Striker attacked viciously. The alien swung wildly catching his arms and legs. It finally fell, so did Striker. He no longer had the strength to stand. A dark figure stepped over him. He couldn’t see any details but it could only be another alien preparing to take his life. Something grabbed his upper arms. There was no pain. He suddenly found himself being pulled away from the attack. Deepfreeze dragged Striker back into the sloping tunnel out of range of the aliens.

“You don’t look good.” Deepfreeze smiled, “Stay here. I’ll be back as soon as we get rid of ugly and his friends.”

Striker smiled not understanding a word. He felt some one grab his hand. It was metallic and cold. He closed his eyes and relaxed with only his pain to bother him now. HitmanJ had freed Aphrodite from her captor but she was in no condition to fight. Holding her injured arm she scampered back with Crystal and Harris covering her. She past Deepfreeze on her way to the tunnel.

“Striker’s hurt pretty bad.” He said.

“I’ll take care of him.” Aphrodite smiled painfully.

Deepfreeze drew his Final Impact and aimed for head shots. Two more aliens joined the attack. Harris received several slashes. His sabre went flying past Deepfreeze. He fell on his back. The alien moved in for the kill. Its head disappeared in a fleshy orange spray. The other aliens lost their heads as well. They retreated only to be replaced by more. Deepfreeze fired again. It wouldn’t kill them but at least it drove them off for a moment. More moved in and he fired again.

“I can do this all day boys!” He yelled.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTY

Amanda stopped the vehicle at the entrance to a small chamber. The tunnel to the power room was on the other side. It was packed full of aliens trying to get in to the tunnel.

“Oh my goodness.” Rico gasped, “How do we get past that?”

“I don’t know.” Amanda shook her head, “You have more experience than I do.”

“Yes but I’ve never saved Pioneer from a giant eye ball bent on eating everyone.” Rico said.

“Ya but…” Amanda paused, “OK ya got me there.”

“I hear weapons fire.” Mome said, “Some of them are still alive.”

“How caring of you.” Amanda grumbled.

“We must help our friends.” Falcon said scratching his chin, “Wait, this thing has a photon reactor right?”

“Everything we have does.” Mome replied, “It has two actually.”

“I only need one.” Falcon glared at the aliens.

Mome quickly pulled the auxiliary reactor from its chamber. Falcon snatched it out of his hand and ran forward. He hit the over load control and tossed it like a grenade. It landed just inside the tunnel entrance. A second later it exploded blasting the aliens to bits. Amanda raced forward parking in front of the tunnel. She grabbed the adapter from Mome and disappeared down the tunnel.

“We must move quickly.” Mome said, “It won’t take long for more to arrive.”

The others followed Falcon down the tunnel. They found Aphrodite, Lisa, and Striker at the top of the sloping tunnel. Crystal and Harris were attending to them.

“Get them to the vehicle.” Falcon barked gripping the squib.

He raced off down the tunnel. Sahara picked Lisa up and carried her out. Harris and Crystal picked Striker off the ground and helped him out. Elenor picked up Lisa’s arm and guided Aphrodite back to the vehicle. Rico and Mome went down to the power station to check on their progress. Deepfreeze was just finishing the mounting of the fire squid.

“There.” He said standing up, “We just flip the switch on the shuttle and this place is history.”

“Then we should get moving.” Mome pointed.

“Come on Hitman.” Deepfreeze called, “It’s time to blow this pop stand.”

“Where do you come up with those expressions?” HitmanJ grinned as he climbed around the generator.

They quickly filed out of the room and up the sloping tunnel. Screams echoed from other passages. Deepfreeze emerged from the tunnel first. Amanda was seated in the driver’s position. She waved for them to hurry. The vehicle was over full but the remaining hunters found spots to sit.

“Do you know how to drive?” Deepfreeze asked squeezing in beside Elenor.

“Why does everyone keep asking me that?” Amanda frowned.

“She’s crazy!” Mome blurted.

“Good.” Deepfreeze smiled, “Crazy is what we need right now.”

“Then you’re in for a treat.” Mome grumbled.

Amanda giggled and stomped the throttle. They sped away just as the aliens poured into the chamber. Amanda ran over a couple as she entered the tunnel leading back to the facility. A hoard of aliens fell in behind them, chasing them all the way back to the facility. Amanda hit the corner and drifted left again hitting the wall.

“See, crazy!” Mome yelled.

Deepfreeze just laughed. Amanda turned right and crashed through the front door. She never touched any stairs landing hard on the ground. The vehicle bounced and nearly tipped over.

“I want off!” Mome cried then saw the hoard of aliens pouring through the main door, “No I don’t!”

“I hope Cerberus has repaired the engines.” Falcon muttered.

“What!” Deepfreeze snapped his head around.

“Long story.” Falcon waved, “Tell you later.”

Deepfreeze slowly turned around and had to duck to avoid a branch that was sticking out. Amanda sped up to the shuttle and squealed to a halt. Cerberus was waiting at the door.

“We’re all set to go!” He called.

“Get those engines running!” Deepfreeze barked, “We’ve got company!”

Cerberus nodded and disappeared inside. They quickly loaded the injured then crammed everyone else in. Deepfreeze took the co-pilot seat beside Cerberus. The aliens came pouring out of the jungle.

“Go, go, go.” Deepfreeze urged.

Cerberus hit the thrusters control lifting the shuttle off the ground and up to safety. The aliens barked and howled in defeat. Cerberus banked the shuttle around so they could get a good view of the island.

“Good bye.” Deepfreeze waved and hit the transmit button.

A second later the volcano erupted in flame and ash. A shock wave blew out from thefacility followed by a pyroclastic wave. Nothing on the island survived. Cerberus pitched the shuttle up and headed back to Pioneer Two.

“It’s over.” Aphrodite relaxed then grimaced as she leaned against her shoulder.

HitmanJ grabbed her shoulder and popped it back in. Aphrodite cried out. Crystal used Resta to heal the minor wounds of her friends. Striker and Nikki were still in rough shape but at least now they had a chance.

“We’ll get the injured to the hospital then go after Kireek.” Deepfreeze said softly.

“If we’re not too late.” Cerberus replied.

“If we are it’ll be Dark Falz all over again.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“We may not be able to stop him this time.” Cerberus sighed.

“We’ll try.” Deepfreeze said.

Deepfreeze turned and looked at his badly beaten troop. He was proud of everyone. They had been through a lot in the last year and managed to survive. He wondered how much more they could take. Striker and Nikki were out of commission now and Aphrodite wasn’t in any kind of shape to fight. He’d leaver her behind too. HitmanJ should back him up on this one. Falcon, Lisa, and Cerberus needed extensive repairs but they’d be ready. The only one that worried him was Rico. She didn’t look good. There was no doubt now she didn’t have much time left. He’d leave her behind as well. She should spend her last days with her father. She wasn’t going to like it but Deepfreeze wouldn’t budge on this. Cerberus brought the shuttle around and pulled into the docking bay. Medics were waiting to take the injured. They quickly wheeled Striker and Nikki away on stretchers. A Doctor examined Aphrodite and insisted she come to the hospital.

“But I have to help my friends!” She protested.

“Aphrodite.” Deepfreeze said softly, “Go to the hospital you’re not coming on this one.”

“But, but I can fight!” Aphrodite cried, “I want to fight!”

“I know you do but in your shape you won’t last ten minutes.” Deepfreeze said, “I want you there with us believe me but I won’t take you to certain death. I would never put you into a situation where you couldn’t defend yourself.”

“But…”

“I’m sorry.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“Hitman!” Aphrodite pleaded.

“He’s right.” HitmanJ said, “Take her to the hospital.”

Two medics took hold of her arms and escorted her out. She pleaded for them to let her go all the way out. The rangers turned away. Deepfreeze squeezed HitmanJ shoulder.

“You alright man?”

“Ya.” HitmanJ nodded, “I hate to see her like that.”

“Me too.” Deepfreeze sighed, “It’s not over yet.”

“Huh?” HitmanJ frowned.

“Rico is next.”

“Oh.” HitmanJ nodded, “Good luck.”

Deepfreeze slumped his shoulders and sighed. Rico was having a conversation with Amanda and Crystal. It sounded like girl talk. They even laughed and giggled the way girls do when they’re having a good time. Deepfreeze was glad to see Rico was back to being human even if her blood wasn’t red. He let them chat for a minute before stepping up to them.

“Rico, can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Sure.” Rico smiled stepping away from the group.

“Rico, I think it would be best if you stay here.” He said slowly.

“What.” Rico exclaimed, “I have to help. Our people need me.”

“No, they need strong hunters.” Deepfreeze said, “I can tell you’re not even up to hunter’s guild standards now. I’m your friend and I know you don’t have much time left. You should spend it with your father. The last time you saw him you were fighting him. Don’t let it end there. Make peace and show him how much you love him. Let him say good bye properly. Let his last memory of you be a happy one.”

Rico looked away. A tear ran down her cheek.

“You’ve done so much for the people of Coral already.” Deepfreeze said, “Your last moments should be yours not theirs.”

She turned and hugged him.

“You’re right.” She began to cry, “You’re absolutely right.”

“We can handle this.” Deepfreeze said, “Go to your father.”

She let go and nodded sniffing away the tears. She slowly turned and walked out. Amanda stepped up beside him and hugged his arm.

“You’re becoming quite the softy in your old age.”

“I have you to thank for that.” He smiled and put his arm around her.

Crystal felt her heart break as she watched the arm wrap around Amanda. She suspected she had known all along but she had been hoping it wasn’t true. She turned away so she wouldn’t have to watch. Sahara stepped up to her. She looked at Crystal then at Deepfreeze.

“I’m sorry.” Sahara said softly.

“It’s OK.” Crystal sniffed, “They were meant to be together.”

“It doesn’t make it any easier.” Sahara shrugged.

“No it doesn’t.” Crystal sighed.

“You’re a strong woman and you’ll get over this. We strong women must stick together.”

“Thanks Sahara.” Crystal smiled, “I’m glad you’re my friend.”

“Anytime.” Sahara smiled.

Falcon, Cerberus, and Lisa returned looking good as new. They had picked up some new equipment from stores before returning. Cerberus stepped up to Amanda and handed her a pair of dagger hilts.

“What’s this?” She asked, “I have a pair of daggers.”

“I found these in a little rares shop.” Cerberus smiled, “They’re real Lavis Blades.”

“No way.” Amanda gasped and hugged the android, “Thank you so much.”

“It was nothing.” Cerberus smiled.

“What’d ya bring me?” Deepfreeze grinned.

“A set of brains for treating this girl better.” Cerberus laughed.

Deepfreeze smiled and nodded. He looked around as his team gathered together. Harris had disappeared as had Mome. Tessa had left to be with Striker. That left him Cerberus, HitmanJ, Amanda, Falcon, Lisa, Sahara, and Crystal. This was not good. He sighed and waved them forward.

“Let’s get to the ruins.” Deepfreeze said, “Hopefully Kireek hasn’t gotten through the blast door yet.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FORTY ONE

The blast door lay to one side twisted and crumpled. Deepfreeze looked down at the holes in the center of the door. The queen alien had been here. She had not only made short work of Volt Opt but had torn through the door like it was tissue paper. He hurried inside hoping they could catch them before they reached Dark Falz. The ruins were truly ruined now. The alien had torn through the dark creatures leaving parts everywhere. Doors were torn from their tracks. The lock switches were still in the locked position. This drove the team to move faster. They came across a few of the dark creatures that were still alive wriggling on the floor. Many had their limbs torn off and body sections missing. These were still fresh. They must be close. The second and third levels were the same. Dimenians, and Delsabers, Chaos Bringer, and Dark Belra, Merlan, and Del-D all ripped apart and yet many were still moving. It was enough to make any one sick. Deepfreeze was glad to see his team was able to keep it together. They quickly passed down the long hallway, through the room with the crystal monument and into the main chamber. There were no dark creatures here. Deepfreeze lead his team around to the main gate where Kireek and the queen were waiting. Kireek stood facing them while the queen looked ready to enter the transporter.

“You’re too late.” Kireek sneered, “Soon my master will have a new body and I will be free.”

“Don’t do this Kireek.” Deepfreeze said, “Falz won’t free you, he’ll just kill you like everyone else.”

“No.” Kireek spat, “I am his faithful servant. He will free me.”

“You’re only faithful because he forces you to.” Deepfreeze replied, “You know that.”

“Perhaps but this is the only way I can be free!” Kireek roared.

“But you’ll kill everyone!” Deepfreeze exclaimed, “Not just us but everyone!”

“I don’t care!” Kireek shot, “I’ve never cared. You will die. That pleases me. What happens to me no longer matters. One way or another I will be free!”

The queen turned and made some gurgling noises.

“What!” Kireek spun around, “I told you the power you seek is in there.”

The queen spoke.

“You needn’t worry about that.” Kireek shrugged, “Just think of the power. You could rule the galaxy. Your children will spread from planet to planet like a plague and you will control it all.”

The queen barked.

“This is no time for second thoughts.” Kireek said becoming quite upset, “The power is at your finger tips. Reach out and take hold.”

The queen started to back away.

“What are you doing?” Kireek screamed.

“These aliens might be smarter than we gave them credit for.” Deepfreeze whispered to Cerberus.

“She can sense something is wrong and Kireeks attitude isn’t helping his case.” Cerberus replied.

“Excuse me.” Elenor said stepping up to them, “I have analysed the creature’s vocal vibrations as well as the transmission frequency Kireek is sending. I believe I can communicate.”

“Do it.” Deepfreeze nodded.

Elenor stepped forward clasping her hands together at chest height.

“Your highness.” Elenor said.

The queen’s head whipped around in Elenor’s direction.

“So far so good.” Deepfreeze whispered.

“You have been deceived.” Elenor said, “The great power that this android told you of is actually a dark entity searching for a host in which it can create a new body. You will receive no power; your body will be twisted, broken, and mutilated into what ever form it desires. Leave here while you still can.”

“No.” Kireek snapped, “Lies, they’re all lies.”

“I speak the truth.” Elenor said calmly, “We may have been enemies from the moment we encountered you but this is a fate we don’t wish on anyone or anything.”

“Don’t listen.” Kireek urged, “They only wish to rob you of your greatest moment. Step through and the galaxy is yours.”

“Please leave this place before it takes your life.” Elenor said, “I don’t wish for harm to come to you.”

The queen started to step back.

“You must go in!” Kireek yelled, “You must go in!”

Kireek dropped his weapon and charged at the queen. His arms were stretched out ready to push the alien into the transporter. She knocked him away with a simple swing of her arm. The far door opened and closed. Deepfreeze turned to see Striker hobbling with his sword dragging on the ground.

“Striker, get back to the ship!” Deepfreeze yelled.

“No way.” Striker gasped holding his ribs, “This thing took away my vengeance. Those androids were mine.”

“This is more important than your vengeance.” Deepfreeze replied.

Kireek was sent flying again. He landed nearby, jumped to his feet and charged again. Deepfreeze turned back to Striker.

“You are in no condition to fight.” Deepfreeze said, “You must leave.”

“She will pay.” Striker growled, “My family will finally rest. I will see to that.”

“You’re not thinking clearly.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “Cerberus, lock him out.”

Cerberus nodded and took a step forward. Striker swung his sword around and pointed it at the ranger.

“Stay back or I’ll cut you.” Striker growled.

Kireek landed beside Striker. He didn’t bother looking at the human. He climbed to his feet and charged the alien again, scooping up his Soul Eater as he past it. Aphrodite and Tessa burst through the door running up to the group. They were out of breath and couldn’t say anything.

“This is getting out of hand.” Deepfreeze grumbled, “What are you two doing?”

“We… came to… get… Striker.” Aphrodite gasped for air.

Kireek charged the queen with weapon swinging. The alien batted him away.

“No, she’s mine!” Striker screamed and charged the android.

“Striker!” Deepfreeze yelled chasing after him.

Tessa started to follow but Aphrodite grabbed her shoulder.

“Let Deepfreeze get him.”

Kireek saw the attack at the last minute. He swung his weapon catching Strikers sword at the base of the blade. The force of the swing sent his sword flying. Striker yelped and jumped back.

“You will not interfere.” Kireek growled then charged the alien.

Striker tried to go for his sword but Deepfreeze grabbed him first. Kireek was sent flying again. The entire ruins started shaking violently. Everyone was tossed to the ground. A shimmering transparent hand emerged from the transporter, grabbed the queen and pulled it inside.

“No!” Deepfreeze yelled climbing to his feet.

The shaking stopped as suddenly as it started. Deepfreeze ran for the transporter. Kireek stepped in his way.

“You’re too late human.” Kireek growled, “Dark Falz shall live again. Now you and I have some unfinished business.”

Falcon charged the android but hit a force field. He was thrown back. Sahara ran to check on him. The room started shaking again but much less violently. Cerberus’ BEE beeped.

“Elly here. You guys need to get to the surface right now.”

“What do you see?” Cerberus asked.

“Something is coming up out of the ground.” Elly replied.

“But we’ve got Kireek down here.” Cerberus said, “And Dark Falz just grabbed the alien queen.”

“Yes and I believe he’s coming up from the ruins.” Elly’s voice quivered.

“You guys go deal with Falz!” Deepfreeze yelled, “I’ll handle Kireek!”

“Are you sure?” Cerberus asked.

“We don’t have any choice.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “You can’t get to me anyway.”

Cerberus turned and dragged Striker out with everyone following except Falcon and Sahara. Falcon glared at the purple android.

“Come on Falcon.” Sahara said tugging on his arm, “The others need us.”

“You go.” Falcon said, “I want Black Hound.”

“You’re as bad as Striker.” Sahara sighed, “Let’s go.”

“I said go!” Falcon yelled shoving his sister away.

“Falcon!” Sahara gasped.

“GO!” Falcon yelled.

Sahara slowly turned and ran off. Kireek and Deepfreeze had begun circling each other. Deepfreeze drew his Spirit Guard from its sheath that was hidden under his Final Impact. Falcon circled around testing the field with his Katana.

“You’ve done a lot of rotten things Kireek but this is truly the worst.” Deepfreeze glared.

“Perhaps but at least I’m free.” Kireek laughed.

“I’m taking you down once and forever.” Deepfreeze pointed his sword at Kireek.

“Big words from a small human.” Kireek growled, “I can not be destroyed. I shall live forever.”

“Then I will spend forever hunting you.” Deepfreeze glared.

“As will I!” Falcon shouted.

“I’ll kill you first.” Kireek grinned, “Then I’ll kill your android friend.”

Deepfreeze smiled and continued to circle waiting for Kireek to make the first move. Falcon had circled the pair but found no way past the force field. He started slashing at it with his katanas.

“Save it!” Kireek yelled, “That field is supported by Dark Falz.”

“What’s the matter?” Deepfreeze grinned, “Not strong enough to take us both on?”

“Only a fool would fall for that.” Kireek said, “I’ll kill you one at a time ensuring success.”

“Then bring it on.” Deepfreeze waved.

Kireek charged forward chopping with his Soul Eater. Deepfreeze blocked then pushed Kireek back. Kireek swung again. Deepfreeze ducked then jabbed. Kireek side stepped his attack and continued his rotation swinging his scythe. Deepfreeze blocked with the sword then chopped at the android. Kireek blocked with his shaft. Deepfreeze pulled his sword away leaving a small cut in the Soul Eater.

“Again.” Kireek gasped, “How is this possible?”

Deepfreeze shrugged and swung at the android. Kireek blocked the first strike but didn’t anticipate the second. Deepfreeze caught him in the left thigh. Kireek cried out and jumped back. A little hydraulic fluid trickled out then was replaced by purple ooze.

“I’ve seen that from you before.” Deepfreeze gasped.

“A little gift from your android friend there.” Kireek pointed at Falcon.

“The D-cell sample.” Falcon said, “It’s still with you.”

“Exactly!” Kireek roared.

He charged at Deepfreeze. The ranger blocked but the force of Kireeks attack knocked him down. Kireek stood over the downed ranger holding his blade to Deepfreeze’s throat.

“This time there is no child to save you.”

“NO!” Falcon yelled and pushed against the force field.

Kireek raised his weapon to plunge it into Deepfreeze’s chest. Deepfreeze sprang up driving his sword into Kireeks belly. Kireek cried out and stepped back drawing the sword out. He pawed at the hole in his metal. His hand came away dripping with fluid. It was quickly replaced with purple ooze that sealed the wound.

“That was lucky.” He growled.

“No luck.” Deepfreeze said climbing to his feet, “You keep making the same mistakes again and again.”

Kireek charged swinging his scythe wildly. Deepfreeze could hardly keep up. Kireek got through his defence catching him in the right arm. Deepfreeze twisted away. Burning pain shot through his arm. His hand suddenly went numb. He could still move everything but it had no feeling other than a mild tingling sensation. He raised his sword and charged at Kireek. The android just stood and glared. Falcon managed to push halfway through the field. It was starting to weaken. The other hunters must be giving Dark Falz some trouble. Deepfreeze slashed wildly at Kireek, never taking his eyes off of the android. Kireek blocked every shot waiting for a hole. Deepfreeze found one first. Kireek blocked a side attack from Deepfreeze but couldn’t bring his weapon around to block the stab. The ranger got him dead center in the chest plate. Kireek knocked the sword down leaving a deep cut running from his chest to his waist. He scowled at Deepfreeze. Falcon pulled his leg free and charged at full speed. He caught Kireek by surprise.

“You, how did you…” Kireek gasped.

Falcon swung at him with both katanas. Kireek defended him off. Deepfreeze ran up to join Falcon. Kireek swung at Falcon but caught Deepfreeze’s left calf instead. The ranger fell side ways as his leg crumbled under him. Falcon made the mistake of watching his friend go down.

“Gotcha.” Kireek laughed.

The Soul Eater dug into Falcons right ribs. Kireek pulled it out and swung again. Falcon blocked with one katana and attacked with the other. Kireek blocked with his left arm. Deepfreeze climbed to his feet and cast Resta. His wound healed but his leg went numb. The Soul Eater was slowly paralysing him. He cast Anti but it had no effect. He tried running at Kireek but found his leg now had a serious limp. Falcon swung several times getting blocked with each and every strike. Kireek spun away then speared Falcon with the butt of the Soul Eater. He continued his spin ending with the Soul Eaters blade in Falcon back. It happened so fast that Falcon didn’t even know it until he fell to his knees.

“I told you I’d kill you.” Kireek laughed.

He pulled the blade out then wound up to decapitate Falcon. Deepfreeze changed his grip on the sword and threw it like a spear. The sword punched through Kireeks head right between the eyes. Kireek dropped the Soul Eater and fell on his back. Deepfreeze limped over to Falcon.

“Nice shot.” Falcon smiled.

“Are you hurt very badly?” Deepfreeze asked.

“My legs no longer function.” Falcon sighed.

“Let me see if I can help.” Deepfreeze said casting Resta.

Falcon felt his legs come back on line. Deepfreeze grabbed his sword and pulled it from Kireeks head.

“He’s finally dead.” Falcon sighed, “It was a glorious hunt but I’m sorry it has ended.”

“It’s not over yet.” Deepfreeze said kicking the Soul Eater away, “As long as that weapon remains intact, he lives. Both must be destroyed.”

“Then destroy it.” Falcon shrugged.

Deepfreeze nodded and readied to drive his blade into the Soul Eaters eye. Falcon suddenly went crashing into him. The hunters looked up. Kireek stared down at them with a mutilated face. He bent down and picked up the Soul Eater. He didn’t speak but then he couldn’t speak. He turned and ran out.

“No, no, no.” Deepfreeze pounded the floor, “We were so close.”

Falcon helped him to his feet.

“We must help the others.” He said.

“Go. I’ll catch up.” Deepfreeze said.

“Are you sure?” Falcon frowned.

“With my limp I’d just slow you down.” Deepfreeze shrugged.

“Very well.” Falcon nodded, “Don’t take too long.”

Deepfreeze watched Falcon disappear through the door. He looked at his Spirit Guard and sighed.

“This isn’t over Kireek.” He said, “I will stop you. Sooner or later I will stop you.”

He stowed his sword in its hilt and began limping back to the surface. He prayed that his friends were alright. Dark Falz was nothing to trifle with and had taken many lives last time they had fought him. He pushed harder and tried to go faster. He reached the exit to the ruins just as a door slammed shut in his face. He heard Kireeks laughter slowly fade away.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FORTY TWO

The forest floor split open the monster known as Dark Falz crawled from the ground. He was just as Cerberus had remembered him except now his three headed base sported six giant legs instead of slithering across the ground. Dark Falz toppled trees and crushed some of the security doors as he moved around the forest. Several hunters had been sent down from Pioneer Two to help and to bring supplies. Cerberus gripped his newly acquired Yasminkov 3000R as the monster approached. Amanda stood by his side with her Lavis Blades ready. HitmanJ now had his own set of Guld Milla. Crystal and Aphrodite were given Psycho wands. Amanda had given Sahara her Delsaber Buster to go with her new Shield of Delsaber, and Lisa had picked out a new NUG 2000 Bazooka which was much too big for her. Tessa had returned to the ship without Striker who insisted on being part of the fight. Elenor rounded out the team with Doctor Montague beside her. He wasn’t much of a warrior but he’d been dying to try out his new Alpha Photon Launcher. They were joined by the other fifteen hunters that had come down. Elly assured them more would be arriving shortly. Dark Falz stomped closer to the hunters. This time he’d destroy them for sure. He inched ever so closer grinning at the tiny little flesh things and their mechanical creations. Cerberus stood firm holding the lead position.

“I wish Deepfreeze was here.” Amanda whispered.

“Me too.” Cerberus replied, “Falcon too.”

The three heads opened up spewing Darvants from their mouths. The Darvants came straight for the hunters.

“Scatter!” Cerberus yelled.

The hunters split up. Some took on the Darvants while others headed for Dark Falz. The hunters couldn’t reach the now elevated heads and had to settle for the legs. The rangers and forces concentrated on the heads. Dark Falz just laughed in his ghostly demonic voice. With a quick stomp he squashed a couple hunters with his foot then with a quick swipe of his long arm, sent another group flying. Two rangers that had been attacking a head crawled from the bush. The two forces that had been with them never showed. The rangers didn’t hesitate to rejoin the fight. Dark Falz released another volley of Darvants. Amanda finished off her Darvant only to be smacked in the back by another. She cried out as she was knocked to the ground. Sahara tore through hers then ran to assist the Newman. Cerberus and HitmanJ laid into the front head with everything their weapons had. Dark Falz flesh tore away in small chunks under the barrage. Elenor helped blast the right head while Crystal and Aphrodite blasted it with their Foie. Doctor Montague had yet to fire a shot.

“Any time would be good Doctor.” Crystal said downing a bottle of difluid.

“This is an experimental weapon.” Montague replied, “I have to make sure everything is perfect.”

“Run!” Aphrodite yelled.

Dark Falz swung at the small group nearly clipping Montague in the head. Five more hunters appeared from the ship. The two rangers in the group joined Cerberus and HitmanJ while Striker and three hunters took on the third volley of Darvants. Dark Falz took a few steps to his left trying to reposition for another attack. He stepped on a blue haired HUnewearl who wasn’t quite fast enough then tore through three more hunters that were chopping at his back right leg. Cerberus’ head was almost unrecognisable now and yet it continued to release Darvants. They were losing people fast and this group was already much smaller than the last time they fought Falz. Cerberus target the orifice responsible for releasing the Darvants hopping that if he did enough damage it might stop. Crystal and Aphrodite regrouped with Elenor for a second attack. Montague laughed as the indicator turned green on his launcher.

“Eat this you monster!” He roared.

A large sparkling red ball shot from the barrel of his gun smashing into the head. It exploded in a spray of flesh and purple blood. The four hunters cheered then scattered as Dark Falz howled and swiped at them. He hit Crystal sending her into a tree.

“Crystal!” Aphrodite cried.

She ran to tend to her downed friend. She found Crystal lying at the base of the tree. A trickle of blood ran from her mouth. Aphrodite did a quick check of her vitals. She wasn’t breathing but she still had a pulse. Aphrodite cast Resta then checked Crystal. She inhaled a deep breath and opened her eyes.

“Crystal say something.” Aphrodite pleaded.

“My back hurts.” She whispered.

“Can you move?” Aphrodite asked.

“No.” Crystal shook her head slowly.

Aphrodite tapped her BEE.

“Elly here.”

“Elly lock on to my location and send down a medical team!” Aphrodite cried, “Crystal’s been hurt and my Resta didn’t work. Possible back injury.”

“Stand by, Aphrodite.” Elly replied, “All our rescue teams are busy. I’ll get one there as soon as possible.”

“Please hurry Elly.” Aphrodite said tapping her arm.

“Thank you Aphrodite.” Crystal tried to smile.

“Don’t speak.” Aphrodite shook her head, “I won’t leave until you’re back aboard the ship.”


Cerberus and HitmanJ ran up to Doctor Montague with their jaws wide open.

“What was that?” Cerberus gasped.

“Do it again.” HitmanJ giggled.

“I can’t.” Montague shook his head, “I miss calculated the power output and drained the power cell. I have to wait for it to recharge.”

“You’re a prime target now.” Cerberus said, “Find a place to hide until you’re ready.”

Montague nodded and ran off into the forest. Dark Falz turned to the two rangers and growled.

“We’ve been spotted.” HitmanJ pointed.

“Run!” Cerberus barked.

The rangers quickly scattered expecting a straight on attack. Dark Falz roared and raised his arms. Energy shot from his arms onto the sky then it rained down on the hunters. Everyone was blasted into the ground. A few didn’t get up. Cerberus slowly sat up and HitmanJ rolled onto his back.

“What hit me?” HitmanJ groaned.

“Heaven Punisher.” Cerberus replied, “Looks like he got a few with it too.”

HitmanJ sat up and tended to his wounds. Cerberus climbed to his feet and performed a quick diagnostic. When he was satisfied that nothing major was wrong, he helped HitmanJ to his feet.

“Hey have you seen Aphrodite?” HitmanJ said looking around.

“No, I don’t see Crystal either.” Cerberus replied.

“Elenor.” HitmanJ quipped and ran for the android.

Cerberus turned just as Dark Falz’s arm came flying at him. He went sailing across the battle field landing close to Amanda and took out a couple Darvants as he skidded to a stop.

“There’s an easier way to take those out.” Amanda smiled as she tore through one.

“Ya, I don’t recommend doing that.” Cerberus groaned.

A small group of rangers finally took out Dark Falz left head only to receive a powerful Rafoie blast. Two of them screamed as they were set on fire. The others tried to put them out only to receive another blast from the Heaven Punisher. None of them got up. Montague ran out from the bushes and fired at the last head. It exploded just as the first had. Everyone cheered as Dark Falz legs gave out and he crashed to the grounds. Falcon ran up from the Central Dome transporter.

“Did I miss anything?”

“You’re just in time for round two.” Cerberus sighed.

Falcon looked up at the giant monster. He wasn’t moving.

“Are you sure?” Falcon frowned.

“Just wait.” Cerberus nodded, “Say, where’s Deepfreeze?”

“He should be along shortly.” Falcon replied.

Many of the hunters that were still standing turned their attention to helping the injured. Unfortunately there weren’t many of them left. HitmanJ was still searching for Aphrodite. She stumbled out from the bushes and she looked very upset.

“There you are!” HitmanJ cried and hugged her.

She didn’t hug back. He pulled her away and looked deep into her eyes.

“What’s wrong?”

“They took Crystal up to the ship.” Aphrodite said softly, “She’s hurt pretty badly.”

“She’s safe now.” HitmanJ said, “They’ll get her fixed up good as new.”

“I hope…”

Aphrodite was interrupted by the demonic roar of Dark Falz. His upper body pulled free from the dead base. Supporting him was a very alien looking body. HitmanJ and Aphrodite quickly ran to find Cerberus. Doctor Montague was examining his launcher nearby. Cerberus looked at him for an update. Doctor Montague shook his head and shrugged. Cerberus nodded and turned back to his group.

“Montague’s finished.” He said, “It’s up to us now.”

Montague cast Ryuker and returned to the ship. He was replaced by Bernie, Ash, and Lacy. Elenor remained to fight. The hunters quickly split up as Falz blasted them with Barta. Cerberus ran right bumping into Bernie.

“It’s about time you guys showed up.” Cerberus said.

“We were busy hunting for Sue.” Bernie replied.

“How’d that go?” Cerberus asked.

“Not as good as you.” Bernie shrugged.

They had to split as Dark Falz tried blasting them with Zonde. Cerberus turned and fired at his head. Dark Falz replied with a Heaven Punisher.

“This is getting annoying.” Cerberus grumbled.

More hunters appeared replacing ones they had just lost.

“We’re dropping like flies!” Amanda yelled.

“Just like last time.” Cerberus muttered.

The hunters moved in to attack Dark Falz lower body. The rangers and forces stayed back to provide cover fire. Dark Falz started swinging wildly as he stomped around the forest. It almost seemed like he was unsure who to attack first. Hitman ran up beside Cerberus.

“Our weapons are completely useless.” He panted, “Even the hunters swords can’t punch through Falz armour.”

“We can’t give up!” Cerberus shook his head.

Dark Falz swung again taking out another group of hunters and drove Cerberus and HitmanJ apart.

Amanda ran up to his fore leg and drove her daggers in but they didn’t penetrate enough to get a grip.

“Oh this is bad.” She grumbled.

“Allow me!” Sahara said.

She gripped the daggers and swung hard. They dug in just deep enough to hold yet they didn’t go all the way through his armour. Sahara waited for Amanda to climb on her back. They quickly made it onto Dark Falz back were he couldn’t get them. Amanda took back her daggers and began slashing at the joint between the upper body and the lower. Sahara drew her Delsaber Buster and joined the Newman. Dark Falz stomped around trying to shake his attackers but the girls hung on tight.

“That’s my sister.” Falcon smiled.

He ran around to the rear attacking Dark Falz last segment. He had to duck and dodge the pincers with every strike. Dark Falz roared and cut down several rangers and forces. More appeared from the ship but it just wasn’t enough. Cerberus just missed losing his head. HitmanJ didn’t fair quite as well. He was lying on his back bleeding from his belly. Aphrodite ran to his side. They were too far away for Cerberus to reach. Aphrodite cast Resta healing his wounds. He tried to get up but Dark Falz unleashed another Heaven Punisher. He was knocked unconscious. Aphrodite rolled over looked at her boyfriend lying still. Rage flowed through her. She jumped to her feet, clenched her fists and ran up to the monster.

“Hey you!” She shouted pointing at Dark Falz.

He turned and stared down at the little Newman.

“I’ve had enough of you hurting my friends.” Aphrodite yelled, “First Crystal and now my boyfriend. You are so going to pay for that one!”

She closed her eyes and drew together every last bit of mental energy she had. Amanda caught her out of the corner of her eye.

“Aphrodite no.” Amanda gasped.

“What is it?” Sahara asked staring at the shallow scratch marks.

“She’s using all her mind energy.” Amanda replied, “I know I do that every now and then.”

“What’s the problem?” Sahara frowned.

“Use too much and it can kill you.” Amanda replied punching her BEE, “Aphrodite don’t do this. We can beat him without you sacrificing yourself. You’re my best friend; I won’t let you do this. Aphrodite please.”

“I’m bringing him down now before anyone else dies.” Aphrodite said softly, “There’s no other way to beat him.”

“Aphrodite NO!” Amanda screamed.

Aphrodite threw her arm out and blasted Dark Falz with Grants. The monster shimmered then one blinding flash impaled the creature. He roared as his insides began to cook. Aphrodite slumped to the ground. Dark Falz began to buck and shake.

“Time to go.” Sahara said grabbing Amanda’s wrist.

They quickly slid down the leg and hit the ground running as fast as they could. Dark Falz thrashed around until his legs gave out. He came crashing down landing on a couple hunters who weren’t quite fast enough. Everyone stood still watching the monster. No one was sure if it was over yet. Amanda ran over to Aphrodite and sat her friend up.

“Aphro, can you hear me!” Amanda cried, “Aphro, say something!”

Aphrodite’s head slumped against her shoulder. Amanda hugged her friend and began to cry. Cerberus ran over to HitmanJ to check on the ranger. He moaned and slowly sat up.

“How are you feeling?” Cerberus asked.

“My head hurts and this cut doesn’t help.” HitmanJ replied and cast Resta.

Then he spotted Aphrodite. He sprang to his feet and ran to the Newman. Amanda was hugging her tight and crying.

“What happened?” HitmanJ asked, “Is she OK?”

Amanda looked up at him with blood shot eyes. She didn’t say anything, she just cried.

“No.” HitmanJ gasped and took Aphrodite from Amanda.

HitmanJ hugged Aphrodite’s limp body and began to cry. Amanda wanted to try Resta but she couldn’t concentrate. All she could do was slide over and hug HitmanJ. Lacy ran over to the group and looked down at her friend.

“Is Aphrodite…?” She stared.

Amanda looked up and shook her head. Lacy closed her eyes and cast Resta. Aphrodite remained still. A pair of Physicians ran up to them. HitmanJ helped them put Aphrodite on a stretcher then left with them. Lacy hugged Amanda as she completely lost it, crying harder than she ever had in her life. Slowly the other hunters began tending to anyone who was injured. Cerberus looked around at all the dead hunters lying on the ground. Others slowly limped back to the ship. He finally looked up at the body of Dark Falz.

“You truly are a curse on this planet you monster.”

The body twitched slightly. A deep moan rose up from the body. Everyone froze as Dark Falz turned into his third form. Cerberus drew his rifle and glared at the monster. Amanda and Lacy slowly looked up still holding each other. It was almost like no one could believe it was still alive.

“No!” Amanda gasped.

Dark Falz roared and attacked.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FORTY THREE

Deepfreeze pounded on the door until his fist hurt. He sighed and stepped away. He wasn’t sure how a new door had been installed so quickly but there was no way he was getting out. He stared at it for a moment before a thought came to him. Perhaps this wasn’t a blast door. Maybe this was the ancient door that had originally sealed the ruins. It wouldn’t be hard to close it from the outside. He turned and headed back to the third level. His only hope of escape now was the hole Dark Falz had crawled from. He wasn’t sure how far underground he was but he had no other choice. The ruins were strangely quiet and devoid of life. His foot steps echoed loudly as he limped back to the transporter. Fortunately the effects of the Soul Eater were starting to wear off. His arm was almost completely normal and the limp was getting better too. He could hear faint echoes of the battle raging over head. Falcon should have arrived by now. If he had been smart he would have programmed the transporter on level two of the mines to take him directly to the Central Dome. Deepfreeze hurried down the long tunnel past the crystal monument and over to the transporter. He stared at the pulsing beams of light. Last time he stepped through this door he had been taken to a virtual field that contained grave markers and the obelisk that had imprisoned Dark Falz. This time Dark Falz had just been trapped in the room so whatever Dark Falz had seen he should see now. He took a deep breath and stepped in. He found himself standing in the same field as before. The sun was shining down from high in the sky. The breeze was light and warm. Wild flowers were growing everywhere. The only thing missing was the grave markers. He looked over at the direction of the stone obelisk. Someone was sitting on the stone table. As he approached he saw it was a man dressed in a blue military coat. The man waved him over. Deepfreeze slowly climbed the stone steps totally in awe of what he saw.

“I was hoping one of you would show up here.” The man smiled, “I am a bit surprised it was you though.”

“You know me Sir?” Deepfreeze said softly.

“Of coarse I do.” The man laughed, “You and your android friend saved me from that hellish existence.”

“We didn’t have much choice.” Deepfreeze shrugged, “Although I would have done it anyway.”

“I know you would.” The man smiled.

“I don’t mean to be blunt Sir, but I thought you were dead.” Deepfreeze said.

“I am dead.” The man grinned, “And please call me Heathcliff. I am not a soldier anymore.”

“No, you’re a legend.” Deepfreeze smiled, “I just wish I could shake your hand.”

“As do I.” Heathcliff sighed, “I would like to officially greet one of the few who worked so hard to protect our people. Some day you will be a legend.”

“Me?” Deepfreeze gasped, “No I don’t think so. I just try to do what’s right. I don’t want any praise for it.”

“Like it or not you’re already a hero to most.” Heathcliff said placing a hand on the ranger’s shoulder, “Keep doing what you’re doing for the reasons you’re doing it and you’ll be a legend in no time.”

“I don’t want to be a legend.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “I don’t even like taking the praise I get just for doing my job.”

“Nobody who truly deserves it ever wants it.” Heathcliff replied.

His hand passed through Deepfreeze’s shoulder as he stepped away.

“What we want and what we get are usually two different things.” Heathcliff smiled, “You need to figure out what you truly want then life will become much clearer.”

“I know what I want.” Deepfreeze said, “To help people. To make peoples lives just a little bit better and safer.”

“Maybe that’s what you used to want.” Heathcliff frowned, “But is it what you want now?”

“Of course it is.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“Are you sure it’s not a certain white haired girl?” Heathcliff smirked.

Deepfreeze opened his mouth to respond then quickly closed it. Heathcliff was right. He just hadn’t been able to admit it to himself. Hearing it from this legendary ghost seemed to change things. Suddenly he couldn’t think of anything else. Amanda was everything he had ever desired in a woman but he kept pushing her away. He had been hurt too many times before that he’d been afraid she would do the same. Heathcliff seemed to sense this.

“Don’t let her get away.” He whispered, “She won’t hurt you ever. She loves you with all her soul and she’s one in a million. I know I’ve seen my share of women.”

Deepfreeze nodded then gasped.

“Falz!”

“Ah yes, the problem at hand.” Heathcliff smiled, “The answer is right here.”

He turned and pointed at the stone table. Deepfreeze stepped up to it and looked down. The three monument symbols were carved into the top. Deepfreeze gently ran his fingers over the top.

“So what do I do?”

“Put him back.” Heathcliff replied.

“How?”

“The pillars must be reactivated.” Heathcliff said, “They are more than simple locks for the door. They are the transmitters for this. Once activated they will act like a tractor beam pulling Dark Falz back here.”

“They were set up just in case he escaped?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Yes and no.” Heathcliff shrugged, “They doubled as shield emitters to keep him inside. That part failed years ago but the transmitter should still work. I hope.”

“You hope?” Deepfreeze smirked.

“We’ve got nothing else.” Heathcliff shrugged.

“You’re right.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Then we seal this place off so we never have to deal with him again.”

“Exactly.”

“Thank you Heathcliff.” Deepfreeze smiled, “You’ve helped me far more than I could have thought.”

“You needed it and our future needed it.” Heathcliff smiled.

“You’re the second person that’s been concerned about my future.” Deepfreeze said, “What’s the deal?”

“That’s for you to find out.” Heathcliff waved and faded away.

Deepfreeze tapped his BEE.

“Elly here.”

“Elly, Deepfreeze here.”

“Deepfreeze, where are you?” Elly gasped, “We’re getting killed up here. Everyone needs you.”

“I have the solution but I need you to contact Montague and have him bring the biggest explosive device he has to the ruins gate.” Deepfreeze said.

“OK.” Elly replied slowly.

“Then round up three hunters and have them activate the three monuments.” Deepfreeze continued.

“The monuments but…” Elly started to question.

“Hurry Elly time is short.” Deepfreeze urged.

“Right away.” Elly nodded and cut the link.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTY FOUR

Dark Falz rose up high above the hunters and dropped another chain of orbs. These targeted Falcon. He out ran everyone but the last one which circled around and came back at him.

“Now he’s playing dirty.” Falcon grumbled.

Sahara helped him to his feet only to be dropped by a Grants attack. Falcon quickly chomped down a monomate to help his repair system. Dark Falz dropped down swinging at Cerberus and a small group of hunters. Cerberus ducked the attack but two of the hunters weren’t so lucky. Dark Falz swung a second time. HitmanJ dove aside just missing the attack. Amanda just stood there taking the full blunt. She didn’t seem to notice it coming until it was too late. HitmanJ ran to check on her. She was battered and cut and slow to get up.

“Amanda you need to focus.” He said helping her up, “I couldn’t stand to lose both of you.”

“No!” She shouted, “Aphrodite is not dead!”

“Pull yourself together.” HitmanJ shook her, “I need your help. Now and later. Amanda please.”

Amanda shook her head and looked into HitmanJ’s mask. She blinked then nodded. The professional hunter returned to her face.

“Alright.” She said, “For Aphrodite.”

“For Aphrodite.” HitmanJ nodded.

Together they went after the monster that had taken their friend.


Lisa dodged the chain of balls for the third time in a row only to be blasted with Grants. An older RAmarl helped her up only to be cut down by Dark Falz claw. Lisa stood in shock staring at her hands that were covered in the girl’s blood. She scooped up her launcher and fired. Dark Falz had moved just out of range and was attacking a small group of forces then moved to a group of hunters. Only one force got back up. He just stood there looking at his fallen comrades. Lisa was joined by a RAcast and another RAcaseal. They fired as soon as they were in range. Lisa could see Cerberus and Elenor on the far side of the field running from a Megid blast. Falcon and Sahara moved in from the right. They got a couple of shots in before Dark Falz moved left ploughing over a HUnewearl and a FOmar. HitmanJ, Amanda, and Lacy took up positions battling the monster covering for Bernie and Ash who were helping the fallen hunters. They didn’t seem to be making any progress and Dark Falz was dropping them like insects.

“We can’t keep going like this.” The RAcast said.

“We fight to the end.” Lisa replied, “If we don’t it’ll be the end anyway.”

“You’re very brave for someone so small.” The RAcast nodded.

“Look out.” The RAcaseal cried.

Dark Falz arm swung at them. Lisa ducked just in time. She looked over to receive a thumbs up from the other RAcaseal. She looked back to check on the RAcast. He had been cut in half at the waist.

“No!” Lisa gasped.

“Run.” The RAcaseal cried grabbing Lisa’s arm.

Dark Falz swung at them with a one, two chop. He missed the androids by a hair. Pushan cried in pain. The mag had received a serious cut from Dark Falz.

“Pushan!” Lisa cried, “Are you hurt badly?”

The mag made a sound very similar to crying. A shimmering white liquid slowly oozed from the cut in his left wing.

“Pushan’s hurt.” Lisa said.

“This way.” The RAcaseal pointed, “Elenor should be able to help.”

Lisa nodded and followed the android. Pushan fell from his position over Lisa’s shoulder. Lisa spun around and scooped him up. She turned around to find the RAcaseal lying on the ground. She had a deep cut running from her right shoulder down to her left hip. She didn’t appear to be functioning. Lisa wanted to try to help but she had to help Pushan first. Elenor and Cerberus knocked flat by another Grants blast. Dark Falz followed it up with his one, two chop cutting down two RAmars and a FOnewm. Lisa ran up holding Pushan. Elenor was on her feet when she saw the injured mag.

“Give him here quick.” She said reaching for Pushan.

Lisa handed him over. Elenor looked over the mag and smiled.

“He’ll be alright but I’m going to need some cover.” She said.

“Lisa and I will, you help Pushan.” Cerberus nodded.

He and Lisa took positions in front of Elenor. Dark Falz slashed as the rangers knocking them down. Nidra charged up and created a temporary shield around Cerberus.

“Next time he gets close.” Cerberus groaned, “Wham, Estilla right up the kisser.”

Lisa smiled. She could see Falcon and Sahara move in for another shot. Dark Falz rose up releasing his volley. The two hunters went down. They received full photon charges but Dark Falz moved away. He attacked a mixed group of hunters then HitmanJ and Amanda. Savitri started bouncing with excitement.

“What’s his problem?” HitmanJ groaned nursing a cut shoulder.

“I don’t know.” Amanda shrugged, “He doesn’t have a full photon gauge.”

HitmanJ’s Kaitbha chimed with a full charge. Then every mag on the field including the ones with dead masters rose up into the sky surrounding Dark Falz in a perfect circle. Dark Falz swiped at the small machines taking out a few but the others remained. Pushan pulled from Elenor’s hands and joined the others.

“What is happening?” Lisa gasped.

“I have never seen anything like this in my life.” Cerberus replied.

Elenor stood up and smiled but said nothing. Every hunter stood staring up at their mags. The mags started circling around Dark Falz. Even the monster seemed stunned by what was happening. He stopped his attack and watched the mags. The photon blast symbol appeared at the center of the circle trapping and holding Dark Falz in place.

“WOW!” Amanda gasped, “I didn’t know they could do that.”

“We can’t attack him way up there.” Falcon pointed, “What are we supposed to do?”

“Be patient.” Elenor said, “The end is near.”

“How do you know that?” HitmanJ asked.

“I can talk to mags remember.” Elenor smirked.

“OK, how do they know that?” Lacy frowned.

“They are talking to Deepfreeze’s Sato.” Elenor shrugged.

“Then what are they doing?” Cerberus sighed.

“Bringing the end to all this.” Elenor said.

“Elenor.” Bernie growled, “Just get to the point woman.”

“Sorry, I can only tell you what they tell me.” Elenor slumped her shoulders.

“It better be good.” Cerberus said staring up at the paralysed monster.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTY FIVE

Deepfreeze watched as one by one the symbols lit up. The green mines was the last. Deepfreeze scratched Sato’s chin. She let out a meow then some chirps and other noises.

“I hope that means it’s time.” Deepfreeze said then tapped his BEE, “Doctor Montague are you ready?”

“The device is in place.” Montague replied, “Everyone has to be clear before we set this thing off.”

“Clear everyone out.” Deepfreeze said, “I’ll meet you at the Central Dome.”

“The ruins door is wide open now.” Montague laughed, “Don’t take too long ha, ha!”

“Here goes nothing.” Deepfreeze said.

He took a deep breath then pushed each symbol. A blinding light shot up from the spire. Deepfreeze was thrown back landing on the grass. The ground began to shake and crack. Sato let out a loud meow.

“You’re right it’s time to get the heck outa here.” Deepfreeze said.

He jumped to his feet and ran for the exit. The ground started splitting in front of him making it very difficult to run. He reached the exit and jumped through. He reappeared in the ruins. Chunks of metal and rock fell from the ceiling. The lights were flashing from the power surges. Some of the dark creatures were wandering around looking quite confused. They completely ignored the fleeing ranger. The mines were even worse. Level two was already unstable from the weapons fire and now the whole place was coming down. Deepfreeze ran as fast at his legs would carry him. He had to dodge around falling panels and ceiling braces as well as chunks of bed rock. He strafed around a Garnz as it wildly fired rockets in to the air. Some dove into the doorway of Deepfreeze’s exit. It started to come down. He slid sideways and squeezed past a falling boulder just before is sealed the doorway.

“Too close.” He gasped.

The transporter was just ahead. He shoulder checked a Gilchic that was blocking his way. The impact knocked him off balance. He slipped sideways and fell. The Gilchic turned to attack. Deepfreeze jumped to his feet and blasted it with Zonde. He waved goodbye and dove into the transporter.


Three coloured beams rose up into the sky connecting above Dark Falz. A fourth white beam shot up from the ground, through Dark Falz and connected with the other beams. The hunters all ran back to a safe distance and watched in awe. Dark Falz roared as the beams pulled him back down. He touched ground then his physical body split open as his spirit was pulled free and dragged back into the ruins. The rumbling and shaking was deafening and several hunters lost their footing. Amanda landed hard on her butt. It hurt but she didn’t cry out. The pain she felt now was much worse than any physical pain. HitmanJ sat down beside her no longer able to stand himself. He took her hand and held it tight. They watched as the beams of light pushed deep into the ground then flashed out. Everything was dead quiet with only the trickle of the brook to indicate life still existed. No one moved. No one spoke. They all stood like statues wondering if it was truly over. Doctor Montague stood by the Central Dome transporter and started to clap. No one on the battle field could hear him. Deepfreeze appeared in the transporter. Doctor Montague turned and grabbed his hand.

“It was amazing my friend!” Montague cheered, “A true demonstration of pure Alpha photons ha, ha!”

“It’s done then?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Yes.” Montague nodded.

“Is your device ready?”

Montague nodded with a smile.

“Then do it.”

“You realise when this Alpha photon generator overloads the mines and ruins will cease to exist.” Montague said holding the trigger.

“I’m counting on it.” Deepfreeze said.

“OK then.” Montague said.

He pushed the trigger. There was a soft rumble and the ground actually heaved the settled.

“It’s done.” Montague said, “I’m going to see if Elenor survived.”

“Go find her Doc.” Deepfreeze said.

Doctor Montague started to leave then turned and smiled. It was a smile Deepfreeze had never seen on the man. Then he spoke with a voice that was not his own.

“You have someone to find. She’s waiting and she’s in pain.”

He turned and walked through the door. Deepfreeze stood in shock.

“Thank you Heathcliff.” He said quietly.

Sato meowed. Deepfreeze nodded and left to find his friends. HitmanJ, Lacy, and Amanda were huddled near the forest edge. Cerberus appeared to be standing guard over them. Falcon and Sahara were checking the bodies for survivors. Elenor was talking to Doctor Montague. Bernie and Ash were assisting the medical teams with the remaining injured hunters. Striker was coming across the field dragging his Red Sword. He looked ready to collapse. No one had noticed Deepfreeze yet. He watched as Striker stopped in front of his friends and dropped his sword. His uniform was torn to shreds and he was bleeding from several cuts. His left fore arm looked like it was broken. He spit up some blood then smiled.

“My family can rest now.”

His eye rolled back and he collapsed. Cerberus ran over and picked him up.

“Medics!” He yelled.

Two medics with a stretcher ran over and collected the injured hunter. Once Striker was secure they transported him back to the ship. HitmanJ helped Amanda up and they started to head to the central telepipe that had been set for the hunters to return to the ship. Deepfreeze slowly approached his friends. They turned to look at him but no one smiled. They didn’t even wave him over. Amanda looked at him the longest. It wasn’t the gaze of anger though; it was the gaze of great pain. Deepfreeze knew instantly something very bad had happened. He simply walked over to Cerberus and followed them back to the ship. They appeared at the main transporter. HitmanJ, Lacy, and Amanda immediately went into the hospital. Cerberus and Deepfreeze hung back.

“What is it Cerberus.” Deepfreeze asked softly, “What has happened.”

Cerberus thought for a moment then put his arm around Deepfreeze’s shoulder.

“You know how ever once in a while Amanda uses her techniques with out proper control?”

“Yes.” Deepfreeze nodded, “She drained most of her mind energy. It could kill her if she’s not careful.”

“Aphrodite used every last drop of her’s.” Cerberus said softly.

“What!” Deepfreeze gasped, “No!”

“She saved us.” Cerberus said, “She single handily took out Dark Falz second form. We couldn’t have beaten him if she hadn’t. Our weapons were useless. She saved us all.”

“I have to see.” Deepfreeze said.

He charged into the hospital. The Newman nurse pointed him in the direction before he had a chance to ask. The hospital corridors were packed with injured and dying people. Deepfreeze weaved through the crowd and almost ran past Aphrodite’s room. He quietly entered trying not to disturb the others. Aphrodite was lying on the bed dressed in the hospital gown and wrapped in blankets. Several probes and tubes were connected to her. Amanda and Lacy were holding each other. HitmanJ was seated beside Aphrodite holding her hand. She didn’t move. The Doctor entered the room. He waited for everyone’s attention.

“I’m sorry.” He said, “We’ve tried everything but we just can not restore her brain functions. I’m afraid the only thing keeping her alive is these machines and they’re only barely doing that.”

“What are you saying?” Amanda asked.

“Does she have any family we can contact?” The Doctor asked.

“I’m the closest thing she has to family.” Amanda replied.

Lacy let her go so she could face the doctor.

“You must understand we can’t keep her on these indefinitely.” The Doctor said, “She won’t live on her own. I’m sorry.”

The Doctor turned and walked out. Amanda turned and looked at HitmanJ. He looked down at Aphrodite and began to cry. The others left so he could be with her for one last time.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTY SIX

Three months passed since the final battle with Dark Falz. Doctor Montague’s explosions had completely destroyed the mines and buried the ruins. A stability survey had been done on the area and was determined too unstable for excavation. Dark Falz was finally sealed away forever. Rico Tyrell had passed away two weeks after fight with Dark Falz. Her father took her death even harder this time and became extremely depressed and reclusive. His public appearances became fewer forcing Irene to take over many of his duties. Sue and Nighthawk had disappeared taking the Black Paper information with them. Most of the other members had been arrested but the only charge that they had evidence for was their attempt to take over the ship. Doctor Montague continued his photon research but more and more of his time were drifting to astronomy. Many people were convinced he was searching for something specific but he wouldn’t say what. Kireek had vanished with only the odd sighting to suggest he was still alive. The D-cell creatures continue to spread faster than the Hunters Guild and military could handle. This meant planet access remained restricted. Ship wide moral plummeted as it became clear they wouldn’t be settling any time soon. Pioneer Three’s fate leaked out adding to the dismal moral. Gangs and Mafia groups quickly formed. The crime rate shot up leaving ship security stretched beyond capacity. People began demanding Principal Tyrell’s resignation. Corruption flowed through the guild and eventually penetrated into the guardians division. There was no body left for the citizens of Pioneer Two to turn to for help. The few honest hunters that remained were forced to retreat to the planet and go into hiding. Deepfreeze had found a peaceful beach front property on Gal Da Val Island to call home. He had set up energy fences to keep the islands animal life away and built a simple little cottage to live in. He placed the last of the wood on the fire he had built on the beach. The sun was just dipping below the horizon when Nikki and Crystal appeared. He waved the girls over to the logs he had found for benches. Crystal was in legs braces and had to limp to the fire. Her spine had been broken in the battle and the doctors had been able to restore only minimal function to her legs. Nikki helped her take a seat. Deepfreeze offered her a blanket. He turned and gave Nikki a hug.

“How are you holding up?” He asked.

“Better than my father.” Nikki smiled, “He’s still broken up over Jesse. I don’t think he’ll ever heal. I’m worried about him.”

“If I can do anything just ask.” Deepfreeze said.

“Thank you but I don’t think there is anything you can do anymore.” Nikki sighed, “You are wanted by several mafia groups.”

“I am?” Deepfreeze frowned, “I’ll just have to watch my back then.”

“Hey, guess what.” Nikki smiled, “I’ve transferred to the lab. I get to work with Elenor now.”

“How’s she doing?” Deepfreeze asked.

“Busy.” Nikki sighed, “There’s a lot of homeless mags.”

“They can’t find owners for them.” Crystal said, “Nobody wants to be a hunter anymore.”

“These are sad times.” Deepfreeze shook his head.

“Have you talked to HitmanJ lately?” Crystal asked.

“No but Cerberus did.” Deepfreeze replied, “He took Aphrodite’s death pretty hard. Having Striker as a friend just made things worse.”

“I heard he kept Aphrodite’s mag.” Nikki said.

“That’s what Cerberus said.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“I’ll have to ask him tonight.” Crystal smiled.

Cerberus and Amanda appeared carrying trays of food. Deepfreeze helped them set it on a table he had set up. He hugged Amanda who kissed him then he hugged Cerberus.

“How’s it going big guy.” Deepfreeze smiled taking Amanda’s hand.

“Not good.” Cerberus shrugged, “I resigned from the Guardians today.”

“Me too.” Amanda nodded.

“I’m sorry to hear it has gotten that bad.” Deepfreeze said.

“Our future here looks bleak.” Cerberus sighed, “You’ve got a nice place here though.”

“It’s not much but it’s peaceful.” Deepfreeze said, “There’s room for more.”

“That’s good because we need a new place to live.” Amanda said, “We’ve attracted too much attention from the mafia.”

“You guys are more than welcome.” Deepfreeze smiled.

Falcon and Sahara appeared next. They greeted everyone then took a seat by the fire. Cerberus sat beside Falcon while Deepfreeze and Amanda went to fetch the rest of the refreshments.

“How are you two surviving these days?” Cerberus asked.

“It’s a forever losing battle.” Falcon sighed, “I can’t believe I’m forced to say this but my strength and Sahara’s skill just aren’t enough to keep the dark creatures under control.”

“They’ve infected the native creatures now.” Sahara said, “We have Del Rappies for crying out loud.”

“It hasn’t been a complete loss.” Falcon said, “I acquired these.”

He pulled a pair of metal katanas from his back.

“Sange and Yasha, nice.” Cerberus nodded.

“They’re just replicas but still.” Falcon said stowing his swords.

“I haven’t seen you around the guild much lately.” Sahara said.

“Deepfreeze has had me taking care of a few things.” Cerberus said, “I’m not sure what it is really about but it must be important.”

“With him, it always is.” Sahara laughed.

HitmanJ and Striker finally arrived. The sun had long set and the stars were out in full glory. HitmanJ quietly walked over to the fire and sat down. The others watched as he sat petting Aphrodite’s Bhima. Striker strutted up to the fire sporting his new artificial eye.

“Is this a party of a funeral?” He said, “Come on people look alive!”

“I’m not in the mood.” HitmanJ grumbled.

“We need some music to liven things up.” Striker said.

“Striker!” Sahara frowned and nodded at HitmanJ.

“It’s been three months.” Striker shrugged, “Time to move on.”

The androids sat still. HitmanJ quietly stood up behind Striker.

“Yes it was very sad about Aphrodite but you can’t spend the rest of your life moping around.” Striker shrugged, “She wasn’t the only fish in the sea.”

HitmanJ grabbed Striker by the shoulder, spun him around and decked him. Striker crumpled to the ground.

“Aphrodite was the only fish in the sea.” HitmanJ growled, “If you ever speak ill about her again I’ll ripe your throat out.”

HitmanJ turned and sat on the other side of the fire. Striker got up rubbing what soon was to become a black eye.

“It’s not like I meant anything.” Striker shrugged.

“Just sit down.” Falcon grumbled.

“Not until we get this party started.” Striker shook his head.

“SIT DOWN!” Falcon yelled.

Striker dropped down on the log.

“Better.” Falcon mumbled.

“Where’s Tessa?” Sahara asked.

“She’s going to be a little late.” Striker shrugged, “I told her I’d meet her here.”

“You didn’t wait for her!” Sahara gasped then shook her head.

“What?” Striker shrugged.

“You are a real piece of work.” Cerberus grumbled.

“At least I’m not a rusty bucket of bolts.” Striker shot.

“At least I’m not a pompous Jack…” Cerberus started.

“So, how are you and Tessa making out?” Sahara interrupted.

“Everyday.” Striker grinned.

The androids all groaned.

“Show the lady some respect.” HitmanJ glared.

Deepfreeze and Amanda returned with the rest of the food just as Tessa and Lisa appeared. Tessa quickly took a seat beside Striker who was up as soon as the food was served. He returned with a full plate of food. He sat down and began munching away.

“Where’s mine?” Tessa asked.

“You didn’t ask for any.” Striker replied.

“There’s the Striker I know.” Amanda smiled then mumbled, “And hate.”

“It’s not too late to know me better sweetie.” Striker grinned.

Everyone gasped. Tessa jumped to her feet and glared at him.

“You were a lot more thoughtful up north.” She said.

“I didn’t have you then.” Striker said filling his mouth.

“Go back up north!” Tessa yelled, “Maybe it’ll put a little sense back in you!”

She stormed away taking a seat beside HitmanJ. They sat quietly staring into the fire. Striker shrugged and continued eating. Lisa slowly shook her head then looked down to find Sato rubbing her leg.

“Hello there.” She said picking up the mag, “I’m happy to see you, so is Pushan.”

Lisa’s mag chirped. Sato gave her a soft metallic meow. She sat down beside Cerberus petting the mag. Amanda smiled and looked up at the stars.

“The sky is really beautiful tonight.” She said.

She reached for Deepfreeze’s hand but he wasn’t there. She looked around spotting him by the waters edge. She quietly slipped away. Only Sahara saw her leave. She just smiled. Deepfreeze was staring up into the night sky. Amanda quietly stepped up beside him and took his hand.

“There’s so many.” She said softly.

“Yes there are.” Deepfreeze nodded, “Montague thinks many of them have habitable worlds.”

“So you think there are other colonies out there?” Amanda asked.

“Legend say’s there were many ships that left the Algo system.” Deepfreeze said, “Coral couldn’t be the only planet they found.”

“So there could be other planets with humans on it.” Amanda said, “Do you think they
have Newmans too.”

“Ya, I do.” Deepfreeze nodded.

“Can I ask you something personal?” Amanda asked.

“It’s not marriage is it?” Deepfreeze frowned, “Cause I believe that’s my job.”

“What?” Amanda gasped, “No, but now that you mention it.”

“What’s your question?” Deepfreeze said still staring at the sky.

“Your real name.” Amanda said quietly, “I’d like to know your real name.”

Deepfreeze looked down into her bright blue eyes. He looked deep and found his future. Heathcliff had been right. This is what he truly wanted. What his father had had. He smiled then turned back to the sky.

“Jonathan Kimble.” He said softly.

“I like it.” Amanda smiled, “Amanda Cassidy Kimble. Has a ring to it doesn’t it.”

“Your last name is Cassidy?” Deepfreeze frowned.

“Didn’t I tell you that?” Amanda smiled.

Deepfreeze shook his head.

“Now I did.” Amanda giggled.

“Can I ask you something?” Deepfreeze sighed.

“I do.” Amanda laughed and hugged his arm, “You can ask me anything.”

“Would you be willing to live on another planet?”

“Huh?” Amanda snapped her head up.

“I have Montague searching for another colony world.” Deepfreeze said, “It shouldn’t be too long now.”

“I’ll go where ever you go.” Amanda smiled, “My family is lost. My best friend is dead. All I have is you.”

‘Good.”

“But how do you know about another colony?” Amanda asked.

“Something Rico left me when she died.” Deepfreeze said pulling a small scroll from his pocket.

“What is that?” Amanda asked.

“A historical document and prophecy.” Deepfreeze said, “It speaks of an Algo colony ship that was carrying a source of great power. The details are not so good.”

He unfolded the parchment and handed it to Amanda.

“This is obviously an etching Rico did but look.” Deepfreeze said pointing to it.

“Are these star positions?” Amanda gasped.

“Yes, it points to the destination.” Deepfreeze said, “Now here’s the bad part. Rico left a note saying Kireek got his hands on a copy of this.”

“When, how?” Amanda frowned.

“Rico didn’t say but I trust her.”

“Me too.” Amanda nodded, “So we have to go here and find this before he does.”

“Chances are we’ll be following him there.” Deepfreeze said, “Remember we still have to stop him. If we can’t then anybody living there must be warned and they’ll need the Spirit Guard. If we can’t stop him here on Ragol then where ever this is will be the next battle field.”

“Do the others know about this?” Amanda asked.

“No but Cerberus has been working on it.” Deepfreeze replied.

“Do you plan on keeping him out?”

“No way, I’m bringing him along.” Deepfreeze shook his head, “He’s the only one right now that can carry on after us.”

Amanda handed the parchment back.

“Listen to the prophecy that goes with this.” Deepfreeze said, “A hero with eyes of fire shall rise up from the ashes of doom. It shall be this one that holds the key to the source of light. Only this one can drive away the dark and bring everyone into the light.”

“Sounds like your run in the mill prophecy to me.” Amanda shrugged.

“Yes but if it does come true maybe one of our family will meet this hero.” Deepfreeze said.

Amanda laughed, “I’m surprised you’re not wishing one of our children was this hero.”

Deepfreeze smiled and shrugged.

“Oh my gosh you do.” Amanda gasped, “You really are a romantic.”

“Can’t a father dream the best for his children?” Deepfreeze laughed.

“You’re not a father yet.” Amanda jabbed him.

“Just practicing.” Deepfreeze smiled.

He turned and ran back to join the others. Amanda turned and looked up at the sky. The stars seemed to shine a little brighter that night. Pioneer Two and Ragol’s futures may appear dark but her’s appeared a little brighter. Ragol’s curse had been permanently sealed inside the planet. Now it was up to her people to make their future. Amanda smiled as she thought of Aphrodite up there some where watching over her. Maybe she was with Rico, laughing and becoming fast friends. Aphrodite would always be with her no matter where in the universe she went. Always and forever.

[Xaeris]

Congratulations on a finished story, that's quite the accomplishment. Feel any differently about it now than when you started?

[Freeze]

I'm a little sad its over but relieved as well. I hope everyone who read it enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.